SEPTEMBER 23RD, 1910

SEPTEMBER 23RD, 1910

Beloved Brother, — As to sonship I think in Ephesians it is connected with God’s purpose. We were predestinated to it ... but it has also reference to us here in this world where God’s testimony and service are to be maintained. Matthew treats of it in this connection. Galatians is for liberty — we are no longer servants but sons. F.E.R. had on his mind the proper sphere of sonship but I do not think he would object to a present application such as I have spoken of. At any rate there is no question as to its correctness.

Thinking of the assembly in an abstract way I contemplate it as in God’s mind for future display, or according to what it was in the beginning. There is the past and future glory: I seek to walk in the light of both.

As to Ephesians I think the epistle contemplates a state in that assembly answering in measure at least to the light presented. We cannot predicate of people something that is not true of them actually; unless we speak abstractly, i.e., unless we view them in the light of God’s purpose and power. We are then entitled to call things which be not as though they were. But manifestly it would be damaging to a soul to say to him ‘You are quickened with Christ’ if he is not, for quickening is subjective work.

Affectionately yours in Christ,

James Taylor.

As regards the Lord’s breathing ... no doubt it took place historically in Acts 2.