BROOKLYN, N.Y., JANUARY 8TH, 1934
[p. 421] BROOKLYN, N.Y., JANUARY 8TH, 1934
Mr. P. Lyon.
Beloved Brother, — Many thanks for your letters and enclosures. We had followed you in your services on the Continent and we are assured the Lord blessed His people through you.
We thought of all the dear brethren in Great Britain as gathered in many places, and we trust the blessing of God was upon all the meetings.
Seven from here went to Chicago, where a good few of the saints met during the Christmas holidays. The Lord greatly helped us. At the readings we had Numbers 5 - Numbers 8.
Then we went to Detroit for a few days where there was a happy season. Then to Hamilton, and meetings continued in the district from Thursday to Monday. On the latter day a large number met at Hamilton — three meetings. There is cleavage at Galt, and I was glad of the opportunity of a meeting there. I believe a considerable part of the difficulty was overcome under God’s good hand.
We found all well and much cheer here on our return. About 600 had met in Brooklyn on Christmas Day, and they got on well, I hear. J. Smith addressed the saints in the evening and was supported. Progress seems to be made in regard of ministry. Brothers are coming forward, taking a lead in meetings and the Lord seems to encourage it.
There is no answer from Shanghai, but Luke wrote a very nice letter on his own account. I had sent our letter in his care, but found he had left Shanghai. Mr. Luke, however, expresses no regret for Mr. Nee’s conduct. I think I mentioned earlier that Nee also acknowledged the N.Y. letter, but said he was awaiting light.
I see nothing of definite encouragement yet as to the whole situation. Luke said he and W.N. were about to visit the gatherings, which, of course, indicates that, while he speaks of getting help from the N.Y. letter, he has no difficulty as to Watchman. Even if Shanghai satisfies the consciences of brethren, there are 90 meetings outside that city whose composition and principles are questionable. Having received their instruction mainly through Nee they must be formed accordingly. Dr. and Mrs. S———, who broke bread regularly at ———, afford some evidence of the quality of the meetings in China generally. They are, according to our information, still with [p. 422] the Presbyterian Mission board and have linked themselves with the loosest O.B.’s meeting in this city. Mr. Nee advised them, as they told us, to get into touch with Mr. S——— of the Honor Oak Meeting as the man from whom he received most help.
I regret the French and German Notes are held up for want of funds. Financial conditions in Germany should be somewhat improved and hence the brethren should be able to take on such a small matter. Deep poverty and free-hearted liberality form a remarkable combination — one that heaven is pleased with.
Thanks for transport information. It is likely, please God, we shall sail by the Aurania, March 15th. I shall let you know later.
Our united love to you all,
Affectionately in Christ,
James Taylor.