MARCH 14TH, 1935
MARCH 14TH, 1935
BELOVED BROTHER, — In reply to your letter of the 8th inst. I may say that I do not see much moral difference between going to concerts, etc., listening to church music and sermons, by being actually present, and listening interestedly to these things over the wireless. I can understand a certain scientific interest in the means used to transmit and receive these sounds, which might lead one to listen a time or two simply on this ground. I know how this would have appealed to me as a youngster without my having the slightest interest in what might be actually heard. I am afraid that young people are sometimes drawn into a snare in this way — the tastes of the flesh being awakened by being ministered to, perhaps for the first time, in that way. So that even this has to be watched. But I cannot understand a brother professedly walking in separation to the Lord wishing to install permanently in his house apparatus which links him on with all that the world is interested in, and more particularly with that in which it finds entertainment. This is certainly not to preserve the character of a covered vessel, and one would not expect to find such a one wearing priestly garments on any occasion.
[p. 237] How such a case should be dealt with is a matter for exercise to those who come in contact with it. I should think that it would first be dealt with as a matter for pastoral care. Paul served at Ephesus “with all lowliness and tears”. The “tears” showing that there had been much which was a sorrow in the service, but it had patiently continued, so that he was clean from the blood of all. If personal service in love failed to produce exercise it might become matter for admonition on the part of elders, and each case which reached this stage would have to be treated according to the state which came to light, and the indications which the Lord might give to the brethren locally. He loves to be counted on as the Source of wisdom in all such matters.
I trust your dear wife is in better health, and that you are sustained in soul and service.
With much love in the Lord to you both,
Yours very affectionately in Him,
March 14th, 1935.