ON BOARD S.S. IMPERATOR, MARCH 24TH, 1914

ON BOARD S.S. IMPERATOR, MARCH 24TH, 1914

Mr. Arthur J. H. Brown.

My Dear Brother, — Both my wife and I were very pleased to get your letter of February 7th and we read it with much interest. I took you at your word, and did not answer at once! I am always much pressed for time, like yourself.

I like all you say as to Luke. We looked at this gospel at special meetings at Indianapolis in connection with the Lord’s humanity, and found much profit.

I am not so sure as to what you say about the “treasure” and “pearl” in Matthew 13. I think both refer exclusively to the church, as is usually understood. First, the teaching of the chapter in a general way confirms me in the thought. Second, the fact that the Lord alludes to them in the house as distinct phases of the kingdom also suggests that they refer to the church. Then, the emphasis laid on them as of the greatest comparative value would also direct the mind to the church. The merchant was looking for goodly pearls, but having found one of great value he sold all and bought it. The mind is so directed to one thing of great value, that it seems to me ^[p. 116] that nothing but the church could answer to it. I will be glad if you will write further on the point — or perhaps I may see you somewhere. I am on my way to your side, as you can see. I hope to arrive in Southampton on Friday, and will D.V., spend the weekend at Barnet. Then I go, D.V., to Belfast, and then to Scotland. I hope to be in London the weekend of April 18 - 19th.

My wife and I were very glad to hear your school was full. We can be thankful for the prosperity that God thus gives, as we are set for his interests. He withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly.

Very glad to hear of Mr. Moody, but sorry to hear of his wife’s illness. I trust God will be merciful to her. Give them my love, also give my love in Christ to Mrs. Brown.

Affectionately in Him,

James Taylor.

PS — Thanks for your invitation to Bexhill — but I do not see how I can go. My time is very limited, and I have made promises to go to more needy places. — J.T.