BROOKLYN, N.Y., DECEMBER 9TH, 1930
[p. 290] BROOKLYN, N.Y., DECEMBER 9TH, 1930
Mr. W. Stanford.
Beloved Brother, — I am ashamed that your letter has remained so long unanswered. It is not because I did not value it, for I did and I enjoyed reading your remarks on Jonah.
That God should bring a man who acted in such a self-willed way into such circumstances in recovering him that his experiences corresponded so strikingly with the sufferings of Christ is indeed remarkable. The potentialities of the case account for it, I suppose, as added to God’s sovereign way. As to the former, His underlying work and the great result — in Jonah himself and in Israel, whom he typified — account for the great pains, patience and grace shown. As to the latter, why should He not honour a servant thus if He pleased? The brief reference to Jonah in 2 Kings 14 is significant and throws much light on the book. He is there ‘Jehovah’s servant Jonah the prophet’. “The word of Jehovah” in this passage has reference to His compassion for Israel.
I am very interested in the news of the work of God in your daughters, and I hope your son will not despise his birthright. When decision is postponed until young people reach their ‘twenties’ the enemy has an advantage as the mind is more set and independent and the heart less impressionable.
The work of God in America is encouraging on the whole. Since returning from England I have visited many places: Detroit, Toronto, Boston, Rochester, Baltimore, Philadelphia, etc., etc., and found definite interest in all. A large number gathered at Toronto last month and the Lord helped us over three days. At Plainfield two weeks ago a large number also came together and we had similar help and a very happy season. Similar meetings have been held in the western parts of the Continent.
We shall be thinking of the brethren in Great Britain especially in view of the many extra meetings to be held — that the Lord may crown the year for you all with His goodness. One is greatly touched with the evidence of His hand being over His people.
My wife unites with me in love in Christ to Mrs. Stanford and you all.
Affectionately in Him,
James Taylor.
If you have opportunity convey our love in the Lord to Mrs. Hindley and her family. We think of her in her bereavement. — J.T.