CORRESPONDENCE ON RECENT MATTERS - 2
CORRESPONDENCE ON RECENT MATTERS - 2
We must be more than content, if the Lord says “He hath done what he could.” We, at least I, cannot say it, though I seek to serve Him. It is a comfort that He says to Philadelphia, I know thy works — without saying more — and thou hast a little strength, so as to be kept faithful, not denying His name, and keeping the word of His patience. How very gracious of the Lord! It changes nothing, it is true, but we should notice these ways of the Lord; He is gracious on the way as He is at the end, and it is always Himself. I think it is striking, the Lord letting Moody’s and Pearsall Smith’s work run over the world as it does. In Switzerland they are full of the latter, at least in Basle. I do not fear it: it is wakening up as all these revival works. God graciously allows the work to go on, that there may be this, and people called out; for it has a popularity most useful to it as service (but which it would soon lose — perhaps would never have — if they were faithful), which I certainly do not covet. The Establishment Missions wrought of old somewhat similarly; and I doubt not there were many conversions, and rejoice with all my heart in it; but all beyond is worldly, and lowers the standard of Christianity. If Brethren keep up their testimony, it will have its full place, besides the preaching of the gospel of the grace of God; and may it be with renewed energy! Church and remnant work, as also the Christian’s place, of which they know nothing, remains where it was. A full plain gospel I have to work through with all of them — the perfectionists, and Moody’s people. They teach what ignores and denies it; but then we have only to add this and make it plain, not oppose. For this I have a full opening both at New York and here. I learn they are getting on nicely at New York. Kindest love to the brethren. In general we have cause for thankfulness here, but I should, as man, like to see things go faster, but you have to bring in a full gospel everywhere. No one has an idea of what God’s children get as their teaching. But I must close.