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30.

No. 9.

AUCKLAND,

N.Z., SEPTEMBER,

1910.

TWOPENCE.

human life. Another evidence of the line travelled boasted human development .

by

, is quite the commonplace to say that we are living in stirring times; but however rapidly we may be able to adjust ourselves to the swiftly changing conditions, we are never withont something to marvel at in the developments which are taking place in present history. It was but a few months ago that the possibilities of air-travel were demonstrated, somewhat imperfectly, but to-day long flights are made. One great air-vessel has journeyed 300 miles, carrying 22 passengers beside its crew. At times the speed reached was 44 miles an hour, and the great ship moved "{Cbe 'IRe", jfactor tn Wlal'. smoothly in its flight. This point being reached, it is easy to believe that the attention of skilled machinists will improve the type of flying vessels so that air-travel will be an accepted means of rapid and easy voyage. But, as we have pointed out, this is not the ultimate to which men look. The stimulus to the development of air-flight does not lie in commercial and travel possibilities, but in the availability of these machines for war purposes. Will their introduction change the military outlook? Recently one of the items proposed in an areoplane contest in the United States was the dropping of bags of sand on the deck of a battleship, and guns on the ship were to be fitted with telescopic cameras to obtain piehues of the spot at which a projectile fired in actual battle would strike the air-vessel. The Secretary of the U.S. Navy has, however, refused the loan of a warship for the proposed sham battle on the ground that other nations would send representatives to watch the contest. But if this has been declined, it is certain that other experiments will be made so that there may be a full test of the uses of these new additions to service, that, if possible, they may be used for the purpose of destroying

.'l'he effort to change the wording of the Royal Declaration has served to bring to light the real reasons whv it was originally imposed, and the weakness of the proposed wording is thereby fully demonstrated. Walter Walsh thus comments in the Christian. on the proposal: "There (!f)anotno tbe is nothing in the new Declaration IDeclal'attoll. which is not, substantially, contained in the existing law. The new Declaration requires the Sovereign to be a member of the Church of England. So does the Act of Settlement. The new Declaration requires the King to 'uphold and maintain' the Acts of Settlement which secure 'the Protestant Succession to the Throne.' But this is nothing new The only new thing in the new Declaration is the assurance of the Sovereign: '1 am a faithful member of the Protestant Church as by law established in England.' Evidently Mr. Asquith would have the British people believe that the whole question centres around a question of faith, and that the Declaration hitherto made is 'an illiberal relic of past times.' That may be his deliberate opinion, but to real Protestants that is a very inadequate view. It is not a question of faith, but of politics. It is because 'Romanists are ruled and controlled bya foreign potentate, who is the irreconcileable enemy of the religious liberties and national independence of every Protestant country in the world, that we view with alarm the removal of the Declaration." Hear Mr. Walsh further:"Charles H. said over and over that he was 'a faithful member of the Protestant Church, and yet he was a Roman Catholic all the while. At the close of the sixteenth century the Duke of Lennox said that he was a members of the Church of Scot"{Cbe IDalue of tbe land, and by this he secured the 1P1'opoae~'treat. whole military power of Scotland, and arranged to bring in a foreign army to suppress Protestantism in Scotland-for all the while he was a member of the Church of Rome; and the Pope and the Jesuits knew all about it, but failed to censure his duplicity, The Scottish Lord Chancellor Seton, who was the first Earl of Dunfermline, said he

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THE BIBLE STANDARD.
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1910.

was a member of the Scottish Church, in which he was permission for them to work without let or hindrance. undoubtedly a communicant; yet all the while he was a It is the knowledge of these things that lies behind thc Jesuit priest, who married three wives in succession to strong Protestant feeling against the removal of the hide his duplicity. He became the most powerful m-an Declaration, and these are the things so conveniently in the kingdom after the king. And Anne of Denmark, ignored by the champions of Rome who plead for tolerwife of James Y I. of Scotland (afterwards J ames 1. of ation. England), joined the Church of Scotland first, and afterwards was secretly admitted into the Church of It has proved a most unwise step for Rome to take at Rome by the Jesuit priest Abercrombie. For twenty the present juncture to issue the Borromeo Encyclical. years this Queen of England was secretly a Roman Borromeo was made Cardinal and Archbishop of the Catholic, while outwardly a member of the Protestant ancient Sec of Milan in 1560. He attempted, too late, Church of England. All these great personages solemnly to enforce a great reformation in said they were Protestants, and if they lived now I have the Roman Church to heal the B IDapal no doubt they would willingly swear to the new Declarbreach which had divided the Wes:rstun oe r. ation: 'I am a faithful member of the Protestant Retern Church. On the occasion of formed Church'--but with the mental reservation on the third centenary of his canonisation the Pope has sent the word 'faithfu l'--'I am outwardly a member, but out this letter in which he condemns the Protestant inwardly I am a "faithful son of the Church of Rome." , Reformers and their principles. In view of the present 'rhe significance of their perjury lay in the fact that outcry on the intolerance of those who believe that the they all wrought to their utmost against the religious King of England ought to repudiate Rome and all her and civil liberties of the people." works, it is interesting to note the kind of language which this Encyclical uses. Of the Reformers, this preIf it he said, Rut this is ancient history, and there is cious document says: "Tn the midst of these errors rose no likelihood of any repetition of such action, it is suffinp proud and rebellious men, enemies of the Cross of cient to rcplv that modern history clearly shows that the Chrisi men of earthly sentiments whose god is attitude of Romo is the same. In the disturbances their belly. These bent not on correcting morals, but which arose so recently in France on denying the dogmas, multiplied the disorders, loosenthe cause of the action of the 'Uestimonr of ing for themselves and for others the bridle of licentifIDobern 1J)istorr French Government against the ousness, and contemning the authoritative guidance of clerical party was because of its the Church, to pander to the passions of the most corpersistent and harmful interference in matters of State. rupt princes and peoples, with a virtual tyranny, overThe Times of January 25, 1900, referring to the trial turned its doctrine, constitution, discipline." in France of the Assurnptionist Fathers (a trial which "That tumult of rebellion and that perversion of faith resulted in the dissolution of that body), said: "This and morals they called reformation and themselves retrial and verdict fixes npon the Assumptionists the formers. But' in truth they were corrupters." The stigma of being active plotters against the well-being and Scotsman, whence we take these citations from the docutranquillity of the Commonwealth. The Assumptionist ment, concludes its report by adding: "Those who proFathers, of course, profess to be a religious organisation, fess the doctrines of the Reformation, whether in Engworking for spiritual ends. As a matter of fact, there land, Scotland, or the Continental nations, have much is nothing religious about them except the fact that they reason to complain of the tone of uncompromising hosarc ecclesiastics. They are a political organisation worktility and superiority which runs through it." ing to extend their influence over the French Army and the French Legislature. In the pursuit of their secular It is interesting to notice that the issue of this Encyends thev acknowledge no restraints of patriotism, of clical has led to the Holy Father making abject apology morality, or of religion. They habitually descend to the to the German Government. Strong resentment was 11~eof methods condemned as corrupt and base by ordinmanifested in Germany against the language of the ary men of the world, making no pretence to spiritudocument, and the Pope has asality. 'I'hcre is not in the action of the French sured the Prussian Minister at the Government any trace of religious intolerance. It is 1bumiliattno Vatican that it was interpreted "in dealing simply with political agents, aiming at the sub:JBacR~OWn. a sense quite foreign to the intenversion of society, employing the most scandalous and tions of the Holy Father," and instructions have been immoral methods, and using their ecclesiastical status issued that it is not to be read from pulpits, or published simplj: as a cloak to disguise their real character, and a in episcopal gazettes. But it is somewhat difficult to means of envenoming the dagger they seek to plunge understand that the Germans have made any mistake into the side of the body politic." The Orders driven from France have found a home in Britain and her when we reflect upon the attempt of the Papacy to f~tter colonies, and it is too much to expect that the change the spread of religious freedom in Spain. It is also of domicile has made them innocuous. That for which difficult to understand that there is any mistake when thcv sought in France they will seek on free British soil, the true character of the man Borromeo, who is beand danger and disaster to the nation must follow the lauded, is taken into consideration. Of him the great

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historian, and devout Catholic, Lord Acton, wrote: "Saint Charles Borromeo,when he was the Pope's nephew and minister, wrote a letter requiring Protestants to be murdered, and complaining that no heretical heads were forwarded to Rome, in spite of the reward offered for them. His editor (Cardinal Manning), with perfect consistency, publishes the letter with a note of approval. Cardinal Manning not only holds up to the general veneration of mankind the authority that canonised the murderer, but makes him in a special manner his own patron." It is difficult to understand that the Germans are wrong in holding their indignation meetings against the Papal Encyclical, because of its intolerance. Rome never changes, and the spirit it now has is that which was manifested in the man whose memory it honours in this intolerant encyclical. In Auckland, years ago, there was a nationalist Society, which flourished exceedingly for a time. It ran a paper of its own, and imported lecturers who enunciated the principles of Rationalism in diatribes against . the teaching of the Bible. In course of time the interest waned, lbope tor and the people generally have got Ubtnkers. along very well without the kind of Iiationaliam which was proclaimed by the Society. The visit of a recent lecturer has, however, stimulated some to hclieve that the city requires an up-to-date nationalist Society. A meeting of sympathisers with this object was duly held, and an association is now in existence "for the promotion and defence of rational thought"!! We are sure that all thoughtful persons ought to feel obliged to these gentlemen and ladies for the trouble they have taken, and are prepared to further suffer, for such a laudable object. We may presume, of course, that all and sundry of the Association think "rationally," and that whatever others may imagine regarding their methods and objects of thought, the Association will be the final arbiter, and add its seal of approval, or mark of disapprobation. Really, we ought to be infinitely obliged to these dear good people. There is no doubt abundant need for the promotion of rational thought on all subjects, and not seldom does it call for defence. Now that we have an Association in existence for these worthy purposes, what victories may be expected. But an Association of this kind cannot be rationallv stronger than the individuals that compose it and the names of some of these are familiar from their frequent appearance in the daily Press, and we have read their views and opinions, in the letters they have written, and our faith in the effectiveness of the kssociation is somewhat damped. We cannot say that we have been at all impressed by the means of judgment afforded to suppose that the writers are specially fitted for their self-imposed task of promoting and defendin.g "rational thought." A lengthy letter from the Pre~Ident on "The 'Theory of Evolution" adds a yet more dIScouraging testimony. There are many, and we count ourselves among them, to whom the evolutionary t~eor~, outside of its admitted operation in human affairs, IS

but a visionary hypothesis, for which no really "rational" evidence has' yet been presented. We believe that there is a good deal of rational thought which Cloes exist ancl will thrive that is wholly opposed to the "thought" of the newly-formed association. It may be well, therefore, just to sa'y that this new association has not necessarily a "corner" in mental judgment of facts. 'I'hero is one great religious power in the world which in bygone days caused great concern to governments, and in war was a terrible and destructive scourge. 'I'hat was Mahommedanism, We are prone to forget that that power is still existent, and that strenuous efforts are being made to Serious unite it once again under one head {J~enace. for the purpose of a war of extermination. The following extract will indicate thc reality of the danger:"London, June 24.-Grave concern is felt by the French and British interests in Central Africa on account of the hostile attitude of the natives. The brutal murder of Lieut. Boyd Alexander, the famous explorer, news of which reached here several weeks ago, was only a slight indication of the hate that the natives of the State of Wadai feel towards Europeans. The problem would be difficult enough if only the Wadaians had to be reckoned with, but there is a far greater difficulty behind this. The leaders of these Wadaians are in reality merely the tools of the all-pervading Senoussi sect, and one blow against the Senoussi might set Africa ablaze from Cape Coast Castle to Cairo and from 'rangier to Khartoum. The growth of the power of the Senoussi, which, although unseen, far exceeds that which the Khalifa wielded, is one of the romances of history. During the past 10 or 12 years it has extended with alarming rapidity from Sahara outwards to Nigeria, Senegal, the Gold Coast, the Soudan, the Carnaroons, Morocco, Algiers, Tripoli, Egypt, Arabia, India, and even Java. No concealment of the fact that the object of the sect is to combine the Mohammedan world against the Christian is attempted. It is a vast secret society, with an army, stores, arsenals, modern rifles, cannon and emissaries everywhere, and no European can guess at the extent of its sway."-Selected.

I was staying one day at annnn in Northern Italy, where the floor was dreadfully dirty. I had it in mind to advise the landlady to scrub it, but when I perceived it was made of mud I reflected that the more she scrubbed the worse it would be. Ours is not a case of mending, but for making new.-Spurgeon. The Christian life is full of crosses, but how cheering that after the cross comes the crown. We may often grow weary, but we can well afford thus to be for the rich reward which awaits the righteous soul. "Rejoice and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven."

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SCIENOE. (To the Editor.) Sir,-:From time to time in the BIBLB STANDARD there are criticisms on science and scientists; and in the STANDARDfor August there appears a criticism of a lecturer who recently visited our shores and spoke on evolution and other "scientific" subjects. Some time ago I met a Scotchman who professed to be a great believer in Darwin, Haeckel, Laing, and others, and he strongly advised me to buy some of the works of these authors and read them. I think that some one has said that Scotchmen are brought up on oatmeal and theology, but I think he should have added metaphysics, for most of: the "scientists" and metaphysicians one meets appear to be Scotch men. However, I conceived a burning desire to become a "scientist," and I bought, amongst others, Darwin's "Origin of Species" and Haeckel's "W enders of: Life." I thought to meet some strong arguments in favour of evolution and other kindred theories in these works, and perhaps to one who has, as the saying goes, "swallowed the dictionary," there may appear some arguments in favour of such doctrines; but I am quite sure that the ordinary men on the street who chatter so cheerfully about evolution and "science" have never read these authors, but get their science from such lecturers as Mr. McOabe and others, who are able to present these subjects in an alluring and popular fashion. I have tried to wade through some chapters of Darwin and Haeckel, but I must confess that such exercise generally lands me in a morass. Take a passage from Darwin at random. Thus, in "Origin of Species," chapter i., occurs this clarified pronouncement about pigeons: "The number of the caudal and sacrel vertebrae vary; as does the number of the ribs, together with their relative breadth, and the presence of processes. The size and shape of the apertures in the sternum are highly variable; so is the degree of divergence and relative size of the two arms of the furcula," etc. Again, in the chapter on "Plasm" by Haeckel there is page after page of this sort of stuff. "Like the caryoplasm of the nucleus, the cytoplasm of the cell-body is originally a chemical modification of the simple and once homogeneous plasm (the archiplasm). This is clearly (?) shown by the comparative biology of the protists, their unicellular organism presenting a much greater variety of stages of cell-organisation than the subordinate tissuecells in the bodies of the multicellular historia," etc. I often wonder if my friend the Scotchman received as much comfort from reading several volumes made up of such pabulum as the foregoing as the old lady did from that blessed word "Mesopotamia." For my own part, I find myself when at work repeating, "caudal and sacrel

vertebrae," and when I awake in the morning from troubled dreams I am muttering away about "multicellular historia." No doubt when I know a little more about Darwin and his pigeons, and can better appreciate Haeckel in his ponderous and pedantic disquisitions on "unicellular organisms," I shall become quite an expert "scientist," and will be able to upset the Mosaic account of: the creation, and show what small potatoes Moses, Davic1. the prophets, and all the other sacred writers were, who never read Darwin or Haeckel. In the meantime I can much better understand the Bible account of man's creation, when it is stated that God formed man out of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul. And when man dies he returns again to the dust from whence he was taken, and "in that verv day his thoughts perish." A PBRPT,EXED SCIENTTST.

Sttchtno'to tlte 't!esttmOIl}].
(By O. E. OoPP.)
"I have stuck unto thy teet.imonies ; 0 Lord, put me not to shame."-Psa. cxix. 31.

It is a good thing to stick to the testimonies of thc Lord; also to have them stick to you. In fact, they stick to the man or woman who sticks to them. Many appear to be stuck by them, because they do not care enough about them to study them. Let us not be stuck by them, but "stuck unto" them. And we do not want to stick to them or have them stick to us as barnacles stick to a ship, to impede it in its course, but to help us on our way. .. They do thus help us, for David says in the very next verse, "I will run in the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart." The word of God believed and obeyed produces activity, not stagnation. It puts the "go" into a man's heart and life; he will go to meeting and "go and do likewise" in every good word and work; he will "visit the widow and the fatherless in their affliction and keep himself unspotted from the world"; like his Master, he will be going about doing good. The community will be the better for his living in it. Oan a man say, "I have stuck unto thy testimonies" when near life's end, after having spent about the whole of it in try to put them from him by "higher criticism" and lower consideration? Does a man stick to the testimonies of the Lord when he is for ever playing fast and loose with them? When he wants to abolish the first few chapters of Genesis giving the Creator's account of the creation? The account says: "The Lord Goel formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul." Is it sticking to his testimonies when some say man is evolved

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from the monkey? Isn't it making a monkey of the man to state such absurdities? It is no credit to the monkey what some men believe and disbelieve and do, if this theory is true. If I were a monkey, I would spend my time in the tree-tops chattering to my own class, rather than in listening to such stuff. The same is true with many other portions of the Bible: We do not stick to them by trying to do away with them or by making light of them. The true Christian takes the shield of faith to go with the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and thus intrenching himself, he' puts himself on the defensive to fight the common foe of unbelief. But the "higher critic" turns his back on the infidel hordes and goes at the Bible with a pair of shears to cut out this, that and the other, until about all there is left is Shakespeare and the Bible covers. Paul fought the good fight of faith; his unbelieving successors fight the bad fight at faith, until faith is in too many cases and places undermined and emasculated. The man who sticks to God's testimonies, and God's testimonies stick to him, will have power as a believer, Christian worker and preacher. The powder makes the rocket go when it is touched on fire. The power of faith makes the work of God go when touched on fire. The man who criticises unto the disbelief and undermining of faith in God's Word, the Bible, will be powerless as an instrument of reformation in the world. A man in doubt is like a ship at sea in the fog, without rudder, chart, or compass. 'I'he evangelists who are making themselves felt in the world in its uplifting are Bible believers, and preachers of the Word, and not the fables of men. There is a ring to the sound and an authority to the thing spoken that carries conviction with it, that hits the mark, that does execution. God will never put a man to shame who sticks to his testimonies, but a man ought to be ashamed of himself who does not stick to them. One is never confounded who is able promptly to say, "It is written." Stick to God's Word, my brother, and he will stick to you in the trying hour. A man the writer once knew, won his case in court without a lawyer by sticking to his testimony, which the opposing counsel was not able to shake him from by cross-examination. You stick to God's testimonies like that. "To the law-and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them."-I~a. viii. 20. Lawrence, Mass. Glass is good just in proportion as you see no glass, are conscious of no medium, but only of the landscape it discloses or the sunlight it transmits. This is a great faith, which looks so wholly at Christ's power as to see no difficulty in the hardest case; so. wholly at Christ's will as not even to think of the means by which the blessing may be wrought, if only He wills it; so wholly at Chr-ist's glory, that no thought of self steals in at all.

"I am only an infant, with sweets and toys," Said a child to himself one day; "1 ~ish I were going to school with the boys, Who can study, and work and play." But when the wee bairn a strong laddie became, And started his boyish career, He found with regret it was not quite the same As it seemed ere it hovered so near. It is true, he had frolics and games some whiles But his duties exceeded them all; , For his lessons and errands, his buffets and trials And his frequent mishaps, stole the light from his smiles, And oft made his countenance fall. "I am only a boy," said a sturdy lad, Tired of petty works, lessons and games; "I wouldi like to be working, 'with heart truly glad, In pnrsuing more purposeful aims. I wish I were out in the world as a youth, There fulfilling my ardent desire To advance on the high-road of labour and truth, And by merit rise higher and higher." But when he was launched as ~1 youth on the 'World, Soon he found, in the markets of toil, Honest purposes batfled, high hopes downward' hurled, Fairest projects engulfed, and himself rndely whirled . In the maelstrom of commerce and spoil. "I am only a youth; more a boy than a man," Said a young fellow, true and sincere; "I am striving and doing the best that I can; . But my best is but futile, I fear. How I wish I were older; more stablishedi and grown To a man among men of the hourA husband and father; respected and known As a man of importance and power." But he found, when he came to full manhood's estate, With his loving wife,_ children and friends, Human passions at work 'mong the mean and the greatEnvy, jealousy, malice, reviling and hateEver thwarting his aims and his ends. "I am only a father," a tired man said, 'N ea th the burden and heat of the day; "I am glad to be earning the daily bread' For those who regard me their stay. But I often grow weary in body and mind, And I long for that good time to come, When my children, grown manly and useful and kind, Shall make richer and brighter their home." [strong, But as years rolledi along, though the children grew Still far distant was hope's golden shore: [throng, Though they strove with true motive in life's busy They had wants of their own; and the world was as As their father had found it before. [wrong So the child and the boy, and the youth and the man, Reaching out beyond present concern, Buildi their hopes on the future, lay plan upon plan, While for fruit from endeavour they yearn. But they find that each stage has its troubles and cares; That for all men the world has its woes; That the things of to-day do not answer their prayers; That their findings their seekings oppose. But the seekings are good, and' the yearnings are right, And the answers shall yet come to view, When "the day of the Lord" shall dispel this dark night, When "things not seen as yet" shall appear to our sight, When Jehovah shall "make all things new."

T. P.
Christchurch.

JUDKINS.

-8.8.

Gem.

God sends us letters of love in envelopes with black borders. Many a time have I plucked sweet fruit from bramble bnshes, and taken lovely roses from among prickly thorns.-G. H. Bpurgeon.

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~.---%-.-0- .. SV--0-. -

lEcboes
.~.~.-%-NAKED AND

from

'UUlest $treet.
.. 0-----%--. NOT ASHAMED.
man and his wife, and naked, the ii. 25.

LAnd they were both were not ashamed."-Gen.

'I'he story of the creation of Adam and his wife, with the attendant circumstances as recorded in the book of Genesis, is full of food for thought and inquiry. As a rule, the whole subject is passed over lightly by modern expositors of the Bible, and so-called Rationalists treat it as belonging solely to the realm of myth, or to the crude fancies of the childhood of the race. Hitherto, in our examination, we have found no reason to treat this record other than seriously, and as affording information on matters which unassisted human investigation cannot p ss'ibly discover. Of the matters which have to do with the origin of the human race the wisest man is wholly dependent upon revelation for the facts, as much so as the most ignorant, and if revelation is not given his guesses will not provide a basis of certain knowledge, although he, in his pride, may give them that position. 'I'hat which we affirm regarding the origin of man maT be asserted also of the beginnings of human history. Who, at the beginning, could imagine which were the salient points in man's early history which would have important bearing upon the after record? One of the difficulties in the writing of history is to sift out from the past those items 11' hich, occurring in early times, have left impressions, or set in motion forces, which still abide. There can be no doubt that much occurred in the course of Adam's life in the Garden of Eden which we would now like to know, which probably would be of service to men of the present; but the whole of that period is passed oyer, and only few items are recorded. Amongst that few is the statement found in the verse ending the second chapter, astatcment which seems in,.;ignificant there, but which is of j III mense importance in the following human history, and still has in the present. That it is given is sufficient to indicate that it has importance, and should be thoughtfully examined to sec why it is stated, and what its relation to the story of the race. Tf, as is often asserted, Genesis is the seed-plot of the Bible, what does this statement ruean ? It may suffice with the thoughtless and the derider of the Word to comment upon the idea that these two beings wore no clothing, but this is to overlook the real importance of the statement. That real point is, that in that Edcnic, unfallcn state they knew not the meaning of shame. A man and a woman in the full possession of all mental and physical powers, but having no sense of shame. 'I'hen it was possible for human beings to exist and never to experience this humiliating thing, but the

narrative shows that the condition of its absence was that man should remain in full fellowship with God, and live a life of loyalty to Him. It is evident that the word "ashamed" is here used in its primitive sense. "Shame, a painful feeling or sense of degradation caused by conscience of guilt or of having done something that lowers or injures character, or reputation, or by the exposure of that which nature or modesty prompts us to conceal; distress felt by a degrading exposure; humiliation of pride."-(Standard Dictionary) . The Bible affirms that there was a time in human history when this feeling was not. How did it enter? What have the Evolutionists to say upon this subject? It is not enough to admit that such a thing is present, but there should be some attempt to explain the presence of shame and its linkage with wrong-doing. Darwin's explanation of blushing as resting upon "the debilitating effect of self-consciousness," does not give the needed explanation. The Bible does not hesitate to supplj a reason, and where other religions and philosophies are silent upon its presence and operation it clearly associates the origin of human shame with sin, and exhibits it as the involuntary physical manifestation of transgressing the will of God, and human experience confirms the verdict. It connects the first sense of that present heritage of the race with the first act of disobedience. Under temptation Eve succumbs, and Adam followed suit, with the result that they "knew that they were nakecl," and sought to clothe themselves, and from that time to the present, in proportion as man has realised his responsibility Godward he has sought to clothe himself that his nakedness should be covered. The temptation invited man to attain to the knowledge of good and evil, and the issue of yielding was that the knowledge thus gained by disobedience yielded immediate self-consciousness, and to this day the sudden flush of shame announces the truth of the ancient story and the reality of the degradation. We commend the following words by the late Edward White, for the wise and forceful manner in which he calls attention to this matter, usually passed over in silence:"Few features in this narrative have been more steadily derided than this, that both man and woman were c~'eate(l in a state of nakedness, and that the outward sense of shame began only with the sense of transgression, leading to the first attempt at imperfect clothing. No ridicule has been more inconsiderate and superficial. 'I'ho account given in Genesis is at least a striking solution of a problem under atheistic views hopelessly insoluble. Think of it. The whole world of living creatures is either unclothed, or, if dressed in plumage and fur, is so dressed by nature for protection from the weather, or for flight, or for beauty, and. not as a remedy for any shame at exposure of the body, or any part of it. 'I'here is no trace of this feeling in the animal world throughout all its ranks. Even our nearest analogues, the unsightly anthropoids, are destitute of any similar instinct of self-concealment. 'I'he majestic form of man in its normal development, the beautiful

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form of woman, are the transcendent works of the supreme Artificer, the supreme Sculptor, the supreme Painter. Human art has followed these achievements for ages, in the Vatican Apollo, in the Venus of Mile, in the paintings of Titian, in limping imitation of a perfection of form and colour whose living glory no work in marble or on canvas can equal. "Whence the irresistible instinct through which the iuost noble and beautiful forms in the whole world clothe themselves from view, just in proportion as culture and civilisation render them more majestic and more beautiful? and in a world where all the rest of animated nature is 'naked and not ashamed'? The fact is indisputable. Not the most infidel or the most beautiful nation in Europe, in its finest, warmest climate, could possibly venture to live one day absolutely unclothed. Absolute public nudity is itself a synonym for disgrace and shameless vice in all nations and ages. Even the half-nakedness of modern fashion, and of theatrical display, is condemned by the public conscience. Let those who ridicule the narrative in Genesis be pleased to give some account of the phenomenon. Clothing is not merely for warmth, for the fact of shame remains in the sunniest lands, and when savages in hot countries are raised to a higher level of intelligence, they clothe themselves anew, by a revived instinct, just as do Europeans and Asiatics. Will anyone assign a more rational account of this extraordinary exception to the rule of nature than. this-that the sense of shame in nakedness, the outward crimson blush at exposure of the person, the impulse to hide and cover, entered with sin, with sin of a crimson dye, entered when the ancestors of the race had cause to be inwardly ashamed of themselves; and that this sense of shame is the perpetual mark ef the truth of this narrative." The eyes of the pair were opened as promised by the tempter, but only to see that in the moment when they departed from God, they became slaves to the flesh, that free-will, independent of God, "knowing good and evil," delivered them up to the power of evil. Their knowledge became really a knowledge of evil through their ill choice and disobedience. By that wilful act they were robbed of their innocence and left defenceless, 'and guilt and shame took possession of them, to remain with them as the abiding witnesses to the Fall, and the ever-present heralds of the folly of those who deny the Bible story of Creation and the Fall. "I'o complete the study suggested by this narrative of the introduction of Shame, it would be necessary to observe how large a place the term and the idea have throughout the Scriptures, and specially those which refer to the period of the New Creation. For those who continue to neglect the mercy of God, there remains the doom of "shame and everlasting contempt." The prayer of God's suffering saints was, "Let them be ashamed," and the answering word is, "They shall be greatly' ashamed." The promise for those who are faithful is, "My people shall never be ashamed." "Ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded." Thus the attention of Israel

was called to this fea'ture. They knew its presence in themselves, and knew that the only way of becoming loosed from its presence and its power was by way of obedience to God, who in the coming clay would break its power for ever in restoration to His favour. In the New Testament we are assured that "hope maketh not ashamed," and he who cherishes the hope set before us in the Gospel shall know in the coming day that freedom from shame which is guaranteed to the Lord's followers. "Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be put to shame," and, having this confidence, we await the Advent of Him by whose work the effects of the sin of the first man shall be abolished, and with a hope that wavers not "abide in Him," that we may not be "ashamed before Him at His coming."

. ..

EDITOR.

1bome lbapptneS!3.
Probably nineteen-twentieths of the happiness you will ever have you will get at home. The independence that comes to a man when his work is over, and he feels that he has run out of the storru into the quiet harbour of home, where hc can rest in peace with his family is something real. It does not make much difference whether you own your house or have one little r00111 in that house, you can make that little room a true home to you. Yon can people it with such moods, you can turn to it with such sweet fancies, that it will be fairly luminous with their presence and will be to you the very perfection of a home. Against this home none of you should ever transgress. You should always treat cach other with courtesy. Courtesy is of greater value and a more royal grace than some people seem to think. If you will be courteous to each other you will soon learn to love each other more wisely, profoundly, not to say lastingly, than you ever did before.-S elected.

{Jl)oraI

{Jl)a~t11lB.

Even the longest life must surely end; Therefore be wise, and choose life's truest Friend. Learn only what is right and true and kincTPick out the grain, but leave the chaff behind. Be true to conscience, to thyself and God, And so escape the stings of memory's prod. Be slow in angel'; quick in helpful cheer; Dispensing thornless roses year by year. Think well and much, but let thy words be few, And care that thoughts and words and deeds be true. If good thy motive, good thy deed will be, AndJ O'ood must issue to the world and thee. 'I'imeflies apace; well use it as it flies: 'Twill ne'er return; its happiest period dies. Life is too short for idleness and jest; Work in the day; soon night will come, then rest.

T. P.
Christchurch.

JUDKINS.

The Siamese believe that it requires seven days for the human soul to journey between earth and heaven, and therefore pray unceasingly for seven days after the death of a friend or relative.

L~

1.36
TABLE
THE MON'I'H " " TES'I'IMONY STHEE'!' " .. IN 'rIlE C;OHHESPONDl<NCE STICKING 1'0 'rHE ASPIHA'I'IONS ..

THE
OF CONTENTS.

BIBLE
PAGE

STANDARD.

SEPTEMBER,

1910.

];;CHOES ~'HOM WES'!' ASSOCIATION No'rES NO'!'ES

129-131 " 132 " 132-133 " 133 .. 131-135 136 .. 137-139

work and says that the first meetings were encouraging. He intends to commence an open-air meeting on Sunday afternoons in the attempt to reach those who will not take the trouble to find their way to the hall where the services are held . The erection of the new church at Dunedin is proceeding apace. It begins to look "quite imposing,". says a letter we have received, and if the weather continues favourable it is hoped that the announcement of the date of its completion will be certain before the issue of the next STANDARD. We may here intimate that if any readers of the paper desire to assist in contribution to this new building, the Editor will be pleased to receive any sums to be forwarded, or they can be sent direct to the Church Secretary, Miss Lawrence, Hope Street, Dunedin, who will gladly receive and acknowledge all donations. Have you read the little penny booklet by G. P. McKay, entitled "Our Lord's Return"? If not, it will be worth your while to get it. It will please you greatly, and you will feel that it is the right thing to have to give to your friends who are ignorant of the important doctrine 'it sets forth. The twenty-sixth thousand copies already issued of this little work speak emphatically for its wide acceptance and its usefulness. 'I'he writer of the booklet was the first who called our own attention to "The Blessed Hope," and we have every reason to be grateful to him for thus guiding our feet to a pathway which has been followed from that time to the present with ever-growing delight. We can heartily commend this presentation as just the thing to put into the hands of your orthodox friends, whose theology is cramped and confined by the hazy notions of heaven at death. Let them read this little work and walk out into an enjoyment of the Hope set before them in the gospel. Order from the Book Steward. It seems that we were a little too premature in the statement made in the July STANDARDthat the discussion on Man's Nature, carried on in the Bible I nvestignto1', had ceased. The matter still drags wearily along, for our friend "Beta" cannot get the orthodox advocate away from his chosen ground. He will not face the question as to the clear-cut Bible statements on the nature of man, but potters around the word Shoel, which, although the Bible declares it to be the name of a place of darkness and silence, affords him abundant light (!) and loud testimony (!) on man's immortal soul. Really, it would be amusing, if it were not so sad, that anybody should for a moment imagine that what the Bible has to testify on man's nature is hidden in abstruse inferences, to hc forced from a consideration of a state which is declarl to be one of silence, darkness, corruption and death. And the advocate will not see, what is abundantly evident to any real student of the subject, that he can only obtain the inferences he desires by the prior acceptance of a belief regarding soul or spirit that is wholly unwarranted by any statement in the Bible.

ON THE PHOPHE'I'IC

VISION

BOOK OF REVELATION HOME CIRCLE-QUESTIONS AND ANSWEHS THOUGHTS ~'OH THE THOUGHTFUL .. CHUHCH AND MISSION CIIHIS1'IAN BAND OUH N.;ws "

140 141 144

Hi

" 142-143 143

BOOK LIST
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS"

THEASUHEH'S

~O"~

MONTHLY

ORGAN

O~' ~'IIE

New Zealand Evangelistic and Publication Association.

EDITED BY GEORGE ALDRIDGE.

ASSISTED BY SPECIAL CON'!'RIBUTIONS.

The Editor wishes it to be understood that, while he exercises a general supervision over the articles and Correspondence appearing in the STANDARD, responsibility for sentiments expressed rests upon the individual writer,

WANTED AN EVANGELIST. The Association requires the services of a man, preferably young and unmarried. capable of undertaking Colporteur and Evangelistic work in the Dominion. Applicants must have a knowledge of the Truths of Life only in Christ and the Coming Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, etc. Applications to be forwarded. on or before the 30th September, 1910,to the Secretary, Alex. Page, 65 lVIur-doch Road, Grey Lynn, who ~ill be pleased to supply particulars as to duties and terms of engagement.

Bsse eta non

1I~ote5.

We beg to acknowledge receipt of 1 Is. from the Helensville Church to the Edgehill Fund. 'I'he Home reviews to hand which deal with the new book, "Lectures on Daniel," are very favourable, and commend it as a fresh and vigorous exposition deserving of thoughtful study, Our Book Steward will be glad to hear from those who desire copies, in order that by swift sale cost of the production of the book may be met. Reports from Hamilton indicate that Bro. Salisbury has received a warm welcome from the friends there, and that he has already won a position in their hearts. He himself writes favourably of the prospects of the

/:jl!;P'l'EMllER,

1910.

THE

BIBLE

STANDARD.

137~

1t~otea Oil the \prophetic

IDtaioll in tbe J1300hof 11{e\1elatioll.

123. J
that hear the words

[UON'1'INUED ]'11011 PAGE "Blessed is he that readeth, uf this prophecy" (i. 3). and they

Before proceeding to the seven epistles, just a word as to the stars and lamp stands so closely connected with the Lord Jesus. 1. The glorified Son of Man was seen standing with seven stars in His right hand. Stuart says: "The Greek word en means not only in, but also by, near, with; so that to suppose the seven stars were near to His right hand, i.e., within His grasp, is one mode of solution. Another is, that the right hand was displayed open, and the seven stars-necessarily very small-rested on it." 2. 'The Son of Man stood in the midst of seven golden lamp stands. Our thoughts revert to the prophet Zechariah (iv, 2), who in vision saw one golden candelabra with seven lamps thereon. There was seen Israel as one nation, the seven lamps joined on to one lamp-stand; but here the lamps are separate and distinct, disconnected from any centre-piece, thus symbolising Israel as a divided and scattered nation ; and in the midst of these seven splendid radiant lights was Jesus Hi mself. The interpretation of this mystery is given to John. The seven stars represent the seven angels (ministers) of the seven churches, and thc seven larnpstands symbolise the seven churches.
THE

EPISTLES

'1'0 THE SEVHN

ASSEMBLIES

(Chaps. ii. iii.). 3. The Greek word ecclesui can be rendered church or assembly. A church is an assembly of people. An assembly is a church. Hence Stephen spake of the ecclesia (translated Church) in the wilderness (A cts vii. 38), while during Paul's visit to Ephesus we are told the \V hole ecclesia (translated assembly) was in confusion, and consequently was dismissed (Acts xix. 32 and 41). There is no objection to the statement that these seven epistles were addressed to seven cliurclies in Asia, if it he distinctly understood that these Churches are not what we may call Pauline churches, that is, churches founded by or under the leadership of Paul, the members of whom collectively constitute the mystical body of Christ, and in which assembly distinction between Jew and Gentile, circumcision and uncircumeision, is not recognised. But it is so ingrained into the minds of people that there is, and only can be, one Church, i.e., the Church of Jesus Christ as existing to-day, composed almost wholly of Gentiles, with here and there an isolated Jew in membership, that the idea of any other kind of Church is scouted and even rep ell ant. 'vile, therefore, to avoid misapprehension, prefer to speak of these seven churches as assemblies. We are justified in so doing, for the Greek word ecclesia occurs seventy-five times in the Septuagint translation of the Old Testament, and in each case refers to an assembly. And as the Apocalypse

is a continuation of the four Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles, which books are linked on to the Old Testament, it is only right that the word ecclesia in this latter book should bear the same significance as it did in the earlier writings. No one can pretend that in the Old 'I'estament or in the Gospels is to be found any record of the Church, "the mystical body of Christ," which was a hidden mystery until revealed through Paul (Col. i. 25, 27). Now this book of Revelation was written by an apostle of the circumcision, a pillar of the Jewish Church (or assembly) meeting at Jerusalem, a Church ever to be regarded as different in doctrine, and order, and outlook to that founded by Paul in Antioeh and elsewhere by direct revelation of God. These members of the Jerusalem assembly held fast to their Mosaic rites (Acts xxi. 20-25), though believers in Jesus as Messiah; but they formed no part of the body of Christ: their expectations and hopes were all earthly, while that of the Church (Christ's body) is all heavenly. They were true and faithful disciples of Jesus, but stood on a different looting in their relation to him. Want of space prevents our labouring this point, but there's no need, as this subject has received attention in the last five numbers of this publication. 4. Our contention is that these seven epistles were written to, or for, seven Jewish assemblies, or congregations, or churches, in Asia, which answer to and are counterparts of thc Jewish Church in Jerusalem presided over by the apostles John and James and Peter (Gal. ii. 8, 9.) 'I'heso assemblies of Jewish believersthe godly remnant of Israel, as distinguished from the ungodly mass of the nation in those days-will come into existence after the Church has been "caught up to meet the Lord," and just before the awful events recorded in this book, and the members thereof constitute a part of the actors in the scenes of the latter days. 'I'hese are evidently under a covenant of works, and not under the covenant of grace, and cannot be other than .Tcws, hcca use some persons pretend they are Jews in order to join their assembly. (Why should anyone "say thcy are Jews"-ii. 9, iii. 9-in order to join a Christian Church P) Of these (and other assemblies) will be the martyrs of chaps. vi., vii., x i., xii. The correctness of this statement will he manifest if we consider the three special reproofs administered, and the seven gracious promises given. Fault is found because: (1) They held "the doctrine of the Nicolai tans." Irenceus, quoted by Moses Stuart, says, "Their characteristic tenets were the lawfulness of promiscuous intercourse with women, and of eating things offered to idols." (2) That some "hold the teaching of Balaam, to eat things sacrificed to idols and to commit fornication." (3) That they "suffer the woman Jezebel (the adultress) to seduce my servants." Now let us ask, does ecclesiastical history give any hint that such abominable and outrageous doctrine as this was ever formally advocated or sanctioned during the primitive age of Christianity? When-during the first century-was harlotry and uncleanness part and parcel of Church teachings? Now turn to the promises. (1) '1'0 eat of the tree of life which is in the Paradise of God.

138

THE

BIBLE

STANDARD.

SEP'rEMBER,

1910.

Paradise (or, garden, Rev. ii. 7 R.V. marg.) is the Garden of Eden of Gen. D. 8, wherein was "the tree of life" (Gen. iii. 22). This tree-lost for 6,000 yearsreappears on the earth at the beginning of the new age, when the delights of Eden shall be restored (Rev. xxii. 2, and Ezek. xlvii. 12), and those on the earth. partake of it in order to the support and preservation of their Jives. The Jewish dying thief was promised that he should have a part in this earthly Paradise when the Lord shall come into His earthly kingdom. But this has nothing to do with the Church, the mystical body of Christ who are raised immortal and need no tree of life for the sustaining of life. (2) 'I'hey shall "not be h urt of the second death." No individual member of the true Church is in danger of "the second death." All who now are united to Christ by a living faith are "made free from the law of sin and of death" (Rom. viii. 2). No second death can possibly harm them. (3) "The hidden manna, a white stone and a new name," are promised. The new name for the new people of Israel is a subject of prophecy. Is. lxii. 2 tells of a time C0111ing when "thou shalt be called by a new name" (see also lxv, 15). The white stone has reference to the mitre or turban of the High Priest as described in Exodus xxviii. 36. On its front was to be put a plate of gold, inscribed "Sacred to J ehovah." ow the Jews are to be a nation of priests, and instead of a plate of gold in their mitre they are to have a white stone, a resplendent diamond on which shall be an inscriptiona new name-equivalent to "Sacred to J ehovah." The hidden ma.nna is so called because it was hidden in the ark (Ex. xvi. 33; Heb. ix. 4-). The Psalmist calls it "bread of heaven" (Ps. cv. 40). It may be that in the time of Antichrist God will feed the fleeing Jewish remnant "in the wilderness" (Rev. xii. 14) with manna, as He did their ancestors 3,000 years ago. But whatever the exact significance of these promises, it is evident that the Church is not concerned with these things. (4) To rule the nations with a rod of iron, and (if rebellious) to break them in pieces like a potter's vessel. Is this the future ~ission of the Church of Christ? This is eminently Israelitish. "Let them have a two-edged sword in their hand, to execute vengeance' upon the nations, This honour have all His saints" (Ps. cxlix.). The Israelitish saints, of course, as there was no Church in existence when these words were written. This is earthly, not heavenly, government. It speaks o~ an exalted station and the exercise of a sovereign and 11'1'e, "h sistible sway. Mieah (v. 8) foretells the ~ay when .t e remnant of J acob shall be among the nations as a lion, who teareth in pieces, and there is none to deliver." (5) I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life." 'I'his promise is meaningless to those who are of the body of Christ, which is the Church (Col. i. 24), for it is impossible that a single member of that body can be cut off, or lacking, so that Christ's body would be deformed or mutilated. May there not be a reference here to the book of the names of David's mighty men (2 Sam. xxiii.) , in which the names of J oab, the comman~er-inchief, Ahithophel, the great counsellor, and Ablath~r, the priest, do not appear. They were once foremost 111

love and loyalty to David, but they were not "overcorners" (Rev. iii. 5), they did not "endure to the end," and so their names were blotted out. So should it be with any of the assembly in Sardis whose works should not be "perfect before God" (iii. 2). It was possible for individual members of this community to have their names "blotted out." (6) "I will make him a pillar in the temple of 1I1y God, and write upon him the name of the city of My God, which is New Jerusalem." This city "which cometh clown out of heaven" belongs eminently to Israel, for the twelve gates of it are named after the twelve tribes of the children of Israel, and the foundation stones have inscribed thereupon the names of the twelve apostles of the circumcision (xxi. 12-14; d. Gal. ii. 7-9). 'I'he New Jerusalem is called "the Lamb's wife (xxi. 9), the Church is called "His body" (Eph. i. 23). Pillars are conspicuous, ornamental, and highly useful part of the 'I'emple, Such shall the Jewish followers of Jesus be in the temple of God, and there occupy a stedfast and constant place. They will be connected with the New Jerusalem, which marks these assemblies as something distinct from the Church which is-met Israelitish. There is a reference here to those mysterious pillars J achin and Boaz (1 Kings vii. 13-22). Strength and permanence for the ages to come is assured. (7) "I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me." Is not this the promise of Luke xii. 37 spoken to His "servants" when He said, "The Lord when He cometh will make them sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them." And is not the fulfilment to be found in these words, "I will not anv more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the Kingdo~n of God" (Luke xxii. 16)? These warnings and promises-which are Israelitish to the core-show that they are purely Jewish assemblies that are here addressed , and not the Church in which is neither Jew nor Gentile. 5. How, then, are we to regard these seven synagogues (ii. 9; iii. 9. Compare James ii. 2, "if there come into your synagogue." A.V. a.ssembly) or churches, or ecclesias-by whatever name we choose to call them? There will be a people for God on earth during the eventful years preceding the second advent. These will be gathered in small assemblies in different parts of the world. It is evident that a separate message could not be sent to each one of them. So seven are selected as typical of the rest, and to them the epistles are addr~sseu. Special instruction, warning and encou~'agement :"111be needed for those trying days. It will be a time of deepest religious activity, sects and parties will strive for pre-eminence, and impiety and sensuality as p~rt ?f religious conduct and worship will rec~ive sanct:on m high places (which is darkly hinted at m Is. l~:l. 17). And these epistles are specially written as suiting the needs of those perilous times. Some commentators point to judgments that overtook the s~ven cities mentioned as proof that the prophecy concermng the churches is fulfilled. But the epistles are not addressed to the cities but to a handful of people dwellers in the cities, and it is to these small assemblies only that the warnings

SEPTElI1BE.'R,

1910.

THE

BIBLE

STANDARD.

H39

and threatenings apply. All the cities of Asia Minor in turn, suffered at the hands of conquerors. ' ,6. ~Ve are not denying that John might send a copy of. this book called "Revelation" (containing the seven epistles) to the Ecclesia (or Synagogues-see ii. 9; iii. 9) of Asia Minor. Six of them, it is believed then existed. (though this is not quite certain): but ,the existence of a Ohurch at 'I'hyatira in John s days was denied as early as A.D. 150, and the genuineness of the Apocalypse disputed by some on the ground that it was a gross error to write an epistle to a Ohurch which was not in existence. But however that may be, we submit that the circumstances of past days did not and could not exhaust the significance of sentences as these: "Behold I stand at the door and knock"; "I will come unto thee quickly" , "I 'will .J fi . g ht against thee with the words of My mouth"; "I will spue thee out of My mouth"; "I will keep thee from the hour of temptation"; "I will come as a thief" (Paul says that to the Ohurch He will not come as a thief1 Thess. v. 4, though to others, vel'. 2, He will). Nothing in the past meets the requirements of such words as these. 7. There is nothing in our PauJine Ohurch epistles that fits into what is here said to these assemblies. In the days to come-after the Ohurch has been translated to heaven-the J ewish remnant who are holding fast "to the word of God and the testimony of Jesus" (i. 2, 9; xiv, 12; xx. 4) will apprehend in a way we Gentilc Christians cannot, the deep meaning, the profound significance of much that is now inexplicable to us. 8. Wc may of course apply the teaching of these epistles to ourselves, as, indeed, wc Inay any portion of the Worc1 of God. But application: is quite different to clniming as 01/1' own words written for other people and at a future time. We hold that the whole book of Revelation is concerned with the Jew, the Gentile, and the Earth, but not with Christendom. The full and final interpretation belongs to those for whom it will specially apply hereafter. For instance, Isaiah, in his last six chapters, and Ezekiel, in his conclucling twelve chapters, discourse of events that are still in the future. We may draw useful lessons, ancl even in a certain sense make a personal application of these prophecies, yet they immediately concern a gcneration perhaps as yet unborn, and it goes without saying that those who li.ve "when God shall do these things" will understand, as we cannot, the profoundtruths partially revealed to and by those two prophets, as also this revelation given through John. 9. There are eight phrases in chapters ii. and iii. which may bear a word of explanation. (c~) "To the omqel of the church" (ii. 1). In Jewish synagogues the chief officer was called Ruler of the Synagogue, and next to him was the Angel of the Synagogue, who offered up public prayer to God for the whole congregation. Hence his title-a title well understood by Jewish readers, but quite foreign to Gentilc ears. (b) "Let him hear what the Spirit saith" (ii. 7). Our Lord possessed a human nature as well as Divine, and it was to Him as a man the Spirit was given without measure (John iii. 34).

May we not regard this as the Holy Spirit manifesting His will through Jesus who in the vision appeared "like as to a son of man" (i. 13) ; even that Spirit which was promised to teach the apostles "all things" (John xv, 26). (c) "Ye shall have tribulation ten dCLY:/' (ii. 10). This does not mean ten years, nor ten centuries; it means exactly what it says. In the book of Esther wc read of one day appointed for the destruction of the Jews. See also Gen. xxv. 33; 1 Sam. xxv. 38; Neh. Y. 18; Jer. xlii. 7; Dan. i. 12-14; Acts xxv. 6. This will be one of the awful persecutions which will break out under Antichrist. (cl) "Suiord of my mouth" (ii. 16). A like figure is used of men. Ps. lv. 21; lvii. 4; lix. 7. See also, Is. xi. -; xlix. 2; 2 'I'hess, ii. 8. It indicates the awful power of Ohrist's condemning sentence. (e) "Thou dwellest where Satan: s seat is" (ii.13). Satan has his earthly centre. Wherever it has been since, in John's day it was probably at Pergamos (the official eapi tal of the Roman pro vince of Asia), which was et city distinguished above all the cities in Asia for idolatry. In the latter days Pergamos will certainly be the headquarters of spiritual evil. (f) "I will give him the 1120 ming star (ii. 28). Balaam prophesied that a star should arise out of Jacob, i.e., the Messiah (Numb. xxiv. 17) . In this book Jesus calls Himself the morning star (chap. xxii. 16), a star all splendid and glorious. (g) He that hath the Se1:enspirits of God and the seven stars (iii. 1). These spirits are the seven presence angels; angels of the highest rank, those glorious beings who stand before the throne of God, and are under the call and command of Jesus Christ, The seven ministers of the assemblies are called "stars" because they by their testimony give a little light during the dark night of Antichrist's reign. They, and ministers of kindred assemblies, are the only light the dark world will then ha ve. Jesus said of His Jewish disciples, "Ye are the light of the world." (h) "The key of David" (iii. 7). 'I'his denotes that .Iesus has access to and complete control over the house and throne of David, 'I'he Kingdom of Israel is His, and He shall yet reign (Luke i. 32). 10. This is a very hasty glance at these seven epistles, but sufficient to indicate their intention and tenor. Before taking leave of them, wc cannot but call attention to one most touching reference therein. These are the words, "Even in the clays of Antipas my faithful one, who was killed among vou" (ii. 13). We have no record of a martyr of that name being put to death at Pergamos, In clays to come there will be many martyrs, and here one of them is mentioned by name. It is no new thing for prophecy to name a person long before his formal manifestation. See 1 Kings xiii, 2; Is. xliv. 2N. What consolatid'h here for the persecuted ones of that day. Jesus knows them all by name. Not one shall be forgotten. And this sweet truth holds good for us, too. I f wc are faithful to Him, through all OUT trials we are remembered. The silence of heaven is not to be misunderstood. Therefore let us hold fast, for "He is faithful that has promised" (Heb. x. 23, 24). Rotorua. O. Cnrsr BROWN. (To be continued.)

SEPTEMBER, 1910.

THE

BIBLE

STANDARD.

141
of it, and then mould the plastic remains into some fantastic shape according to the pleasure of the human mind, and this mixture of tradition and scripture is to occupy the place of the undefiled Word of God! Another enemy to the supremacy of the Bible is that of expediency. In this day the rule is to do what we indivldun.lh- helieve to be right. But this mode of' procedure is ntterly wrong. Tt iR a Divine. and not a human, standard to which II'(' are to conform. There is a so lr-mn responsi hil ity resting upon us to obey the Word of God eeacttu, not deviati'ng in nny way from its' plain precepts. As a simple instance, take the question of baptism. All Christians are azreed as to icho were the subjects of b~ptism, and how it was administered' in Apostolic days; but "infant sprinkling" has been introduced, and: is almost universally practised throughout Christendom, the Church Authorities "by a wise discretion" having changed the ordinance. And likewise much work (in itself good and' laudable) undertaken by the Churches is without Scriptural warrant 01' sanction. The Bible is not supreme. We plan and purpose without any consultation with Holy Writ. This was King Saul's sin. He d'id evil that good might come. There was no harm in .sparing the sheep and oxen, because the king intended to offer a great sacrifice to Jehovah. But what was Samuel's comment? "To obey is better than sacriflee, and to hearken. is better than the fat of rams" (1 Sam. xv, 22). Saul's word was "sacrifice." Samuel's word was "obedience." This is conclusive. It is better, if it must be so, to give up certain modes of working. even in Christian service, if distinct sanction and' approval are not to be found in the Word. There is a lot of bustling about in some churches. too much of which is done to please some fellow mortal andi win applause, but concerning which the test question has never been raised, "What sa ith the Scripture?" 'Ve must insist upon the supremacy of the Bible. From its utterances there can be no appeal. When God speaks, mall must bow. Even though we be called dogmatic, intolerant, imperious, we should seck to abide by this truth. It is not a little strange that when a man tamely consents to bow down to the opinion of his fellow, he is considered meek, modest, and liberal; but let him reverently bow to the authority of Holy Scripture, and he will be looked upon as self-confident, arrogant, and narrowminded. Rationalism, or the supremacy of man's reason, is the great danger of today. It presumes to sit in judgment upon the Word of God:"'-'to decide upon what is and what is not worthy of God, to prescribe boundaries to inspiration. God is shut out of His own book, if therein is said: anything which poor, blind, perverted reason cannot reconcile with her own conclusions, which conclusions, be it observed, are not infrequently the grossest absurdities. Trad itlon, Expediency, and Rationalism-to which we may add Spiritualism

""\

~Thoughts for the Thoughtful.

"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are venerable, think on these things" (Phil. iv. 8). God has graciously given to us a book which is to be "A lamp unto OUl' feet and a light unto 0111' path" (Ps. cxix. 105), and which, as being a Divine revelation, is adapted to n.ll ages, all conclitions, all climes. But there are some who would persuade us tha t things are so totally changed since the Bible was penned; that we need other guidance than that which its precious pages supply. They tell US that society is not now what it was in those far-off primitive days, that there has been such a development of the powers of nature, of science, of philosophy, that much of the contents of this book are out of date; indeed, the book itself is old-fashioned and behind the times. To deny this, is to brand oneself as childish, ignorant, or imbecile. Now, those who would thus persuade us may be very clever and learned', but we have no hesitation in letting them know that, in this matter, "they do greatly orr, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God" (Matt. xxii. 29). We render all due respect to learning, genius, and talent, whenever we find them in their place. flnel: at their proper work, but when we find tbem lifting their proud' heads above the word of God, and sitting in jndgment upon that peerless revelation, as though it were the production of a shallow and short-sighted mortal instead of being penned by the All-wise, Almighty, and Eternal God:, it behoves us with firmness and decision to proclaim again and again
THE SUFFIENCY OF THE BIBLE.

magazines, and desultory conversation. They get it second-hand, not first-hand. And to such, Paul's warning comes with special emphasis. "This J say, that no one may delude you with persuasiveness of speech" (Col. ii. 4; I Cor. ii. 4). I once lwanl the In,tp. Dr. Parker, of London. complain. that "Ever~rthing is tauzh t in the rolleg(,R except the Bible, which the men are supposed to read in their spare time," and he expressed the fpar tha t it is through ignorance of the lettp,r of tlw Word (to say nothing of its inner meaning) that in many cases th(' door was left open for the entrance of certain ra tionn listic views which are ROpopular to-dav. There may have been a little purposed exaggeration in the statement. but there must have been a substantial reason for so grave a cornplaint, 'Ve believe in the sufficiency of the Bible. that this book as written in the original Hebrew and Greek languages is the very word' of the only wise ani! true God, '~ho sees tlie end: from the beginning. and not only the end. but every stage of the way. We hold it. therefore. to he nothing short of positive blasphernv to assert that the Bible is not sufficient, or that we are compelled to travel outside its covers to find ample guidance and instruction for the present moment, and for everv moment of our earth'lv pilgrimage. The Bible is a perfect chart, in which nverv exigency of the Chr istdan mariner has been ant.icipa ted. Every rock, every sand-bank, every shoal, every strand, every danger-spot has been carefully noted down. All the need of t.he Church of God. its members, and Its ministers, have been fully provided for. If the book is Divine it is sufficient. If it i not sufficient, it is not Divine. If we have an incomplete Bible, it cannot be from God at all.
THE SUPREMACY OF 'fHE BIRLE.

As to its sufficiency, we may quote Paul's words to Timothy. He was writing to that young minister instructing lurn as to his full equipment for his ministerial work. And he says, "Every scripture inspired (God-breathed) of God is profitable that the man of God may be pm-feet, throughly furnished. unto all good works" (2 Tim. iii. 16, 17). What more is wantedi? To be complete and furnished completely must render a man independent of all the boasted powers of science and philosophy so far as knowledge of the Divine will is concerned'. Moreover, Paul specially warns Timothy against the dangerous "oppositions of science," adding that "some professing have erred concerning the faith" (1 Tim. vi. 20, 21). Let us repeat, that we fully recognise the invaluable services to the world: of both science and phi losophy, which, within their spheres, cannot be over-rated; but we object to the impiety of the "higher culture" when it intrudes into a domain which is certainly outside its legitimate sphere. It is questionable whether in the rush and haste and bustle of these modern days Christian folk read their Bibles as did those of a past generation, who went slower and had: more leisure. The little theology many possess is picked up from Sunday sermons, monthly

We live in bewildering days. It is as it was in the assembly at Ephesus, "Some cried one thing, and some another, for the assembly was confused:" (Acts xix. 32) . Inside the Church there is a perfect din of confused voices. to the great perplexity of many of the faithful. Why is this? Is there no perfect standard to which appeal may be made? We almost answer, "No," for men have dethroned the Bible and deny its supremacy. Human tradition is exalted and Divine revelation belittled. A farthing candle takes the place of the sun's meridian beams. But what is the worth of these "opinions" of sinful men "whose Ioundation is in the dust, which are crushed like a moth! betwixt morning and evening they are destroyed': (Job iv. 19, 20). Apart from a revelation from heaven, what can they know? And if they do know anything, that little knowlecl'geevery particle of it-they originally .derived from a Divine source. They remind us of one who climbs to a height by means of a ladder, and then spurns and casts the ladder down to the earth. The Bible is the only book in the world that claims supremacy over all others. It admits of no rival. It speaks with an authority not safely to be trifled with. Tradition would take the backbone out

142
-are all at work, as so many agents of the devil, in his efforts to sap the foundation of our holy faith. We owe it to that blessed volume of inspiration from which we have drunk the stream of life and peace to uphold the truth of the divinity of its every page, whether of history, biography, prophecy, or psalmody. And, believing as we do in the sufficiency and supremacy of the Bible, let us daily enlarge om acqua.intauco with its contents, treasur-ing it in 0111' hearts, submitting to its authority, showing the f'ru it.s of its teaching in 01\1' daily livrs and con versa t.ion. CAIlPUS.

THE

BIBLE

STANDARD.

SEPTEMBER, 1910. Sunday morning, August 14: Bro, L. E. Falkner conducted' the service, speaking on "Happiness." The Christian religion realises that sin exists, but shows the means of its removal, and provides for a present happiness and for a greater and richer happiness in the future. In the evening Bro, Aldridge's subject was "Present with the Lord: How and When?" (2 Corinbh ians v.). Tn this chapter there is no reference to present soul immortality, but a clear and plain statement by Pa.1l1 of resnrrection life"longing to be clothed upon with our habitat.ion, which is from heaven." Wednesday evening: On Wednesday evening, July 20th, our annual Church Tea was held, there being no Bible Class. On Wednesday, July 27th, Bro. Aldridge commenced a series of addresses on "The Bible and Immortality," his subject for the evening being "Racial Beliefs on I mmorta 1i'ty"; \N ednesday evening, August 3rd, "TIle Old Testament and Irnmortn lity", August 16th, "The Psalms and Immortality"; August 17th, "Christ's Teaching on Immortality." In all these addresses abundant Scripture evidence has been gi ven to show how clear Bible-teaching is as regards man's present nature and future destiny, and immorta lity only a t the resurrection. The attendance at these meetings has been very gratifying, showing that keen interest is being taken in this important subject. J.H.W. HELENS\'ILLE.-Owing to the bad weather and lack of interest, our meetings during t'he past month have not been quite so well attended. The weekly Bible Class has been suspended for a time. Our visiting speakers during the month were Bro. C. B. King (West Street) and Bro. Gla.ister (Dominion Road). Unfortunately, the Sunday that Bro. King was with us was very wet, especially in the evening; therefore 'the attendance was small. Sunday, July 24: Bro. C. B. King presided, and spoke on "The things that are Christ's." The subject of the evening auuress was "The Penitent Thief." Sunday, July 31: Bro, Le Roy presided; subject, Rom. viii. In the evening Bro. Cameron spoke on "The Truth of the Scriptures." Sunday, August 7: Bro. Glaister presided, and took as his subject "The Church." His evening subject was, "Why am I a Christian." Sunday, August 14: Bro, Cameron presided, and spoke on "The Bible v: Evolution." The evening subject was "Behold the Lamb of God." L.B.

11 11

CHURCH AND MISSION NEWS.

11 11

Ancrcr.x xu, - Sunday 2~: Bro. G. Aldridge Ha rold: A ldridge gave the i ng from the 9th verse of

morning, July presided. Bro. address, speakthe 4th chapter

A Dirge. "Earth to earth, and dust to dust!" Here the evil and the just, Here the youthful and the old, Here the fearful and the bold, Here the matron and the maid, In onc silent bed are laid; Here the vassal and the king Ride by side lie withering; Here the sword and sceptre rust'''Ea rt.h to earth, and dust to dust l" Age on age sha II roll along O'er this pale and silent throng; Those that wept them, those that weep. All shall with these sleepers sleep. Brothers, sisters of the worm, Summer's sun, or winter's storm, Song of peace, or battle's roar, Xe'er shall break their slumbers more. Death shall keep his sullen trust"Eart.h to earth, and dust to dust!" But a day is coming fast, Earth, thy mightiest and thy last; It shall come in fear and wonder, Heralded by trump and thunder; It shall come in strife and toil, It shall come in blood and spoil, It shall come in empires' groans, Burning temples, trampled thrones; Then ambition rue thy lust!"Earth to earth, and dust to dust!" Then shall come the judgment sign; In the east the King shall shine; Flashing from heaven's golden gate, Thousands, thousands round his state, Spirits with the crown and plume. Tremble, then, thou sullen tomb! Heaven sha.ll open on our sight, Ea rth be turned to living light, Kingdoms of. the ransomed just"Ea.r th to earth, and dust to dust!" Then shall, gorgeous as a. gem, Shine thy mount, Jerusalem; Then shall in the desert rise Fruits of more than Paradise; Earth by angel feet be trod, One great garden of her God; Till are dried the martyr's tears Through a glorious thousand years, Now in hope of Him we trust"Earth to earth, and dust to dust!"

-Oroly.

of Ist J"ohn, and the l l th verse of the fifth chapter: God's message of love: life, and mercy to man, sent through Hi5 beloved Son, and through His apostles, as set before us in this epistle. In the evening Bro. Aldridge spoke on "The Doctrine of Life in Christ" (1 Peter iii. 15). No where in the Bible can we find any statement to imply that man has an immortal soul, and God has made no provision for the saving of such a thing. Christ Himself ]'080 from the dead a material being: "Hand,le Me," He said, "for a spirit hath not flesh and bones as ye behold me having." The doctrine of Life only in Christ is the gospel that Gael has given for men, for God sent His Son into the world that we might live through Him. Man is a sinner, but beIief 'in and receiving Christ means forgiveness of sill. Man is mortal, dying, and God has offered through belief in H is Son Jesus Christ eterna I life. Sunday morning, July 31: Bro. Ernest Aldridge presided, and in the course of his remarks on Romans x iv. 4 drew attention to the fact that in the innermost deep-seated act of service is true happiness to be found. "He shall not fall," says Pall I, "for the Lord ha.th power to make him stand." Brethren, let US stand on 'the rock Christ Jesus, in the light of the word of truth and righteousness, in defence of the truth, and shoulder to shoulder with Christ. We had with us in fellowship Bro. and Sister Sanders, of the Thames. We were all glad to see them, and trust that their meeting with us was helpful and enjoyable, In the evening the theme was "Desiring to Depart and be wifh Christ" (Philippians i. 23). Paul had the desire unto the Returning and bcing with Christ, which is far 'better. He was in a strait between the two-life and death-but longed for the rapture to the .Lord, Sunday morning, August 7: Thanksgiving Su nday : Bro. Salisbury conducted the meeti ng, "Prayer" being the subject of his address (James vii. 16). The prayer of a righteous mall ava.ileth much in the working. Our brother spoke on the different kinds of prayer as related in the Bible, concluding with an appeal to all to pray without ceasing. In the evening Bro, Aldridgs spoke on "Creation's Coming Joy" (Revelation v.). In the Bible we read of the manifestation of thanksgiving of the children of Israel when they had passed' safely through the Red Sea. Praise was given to God because the power of evil had been overthrown. In this chapter of Revelation we 'have recorded the vision of John 'the Divine, in which is shown the praise of creation which will be rendered unto Him who is found worthy to unseal the title-deeds of the inheritance.

WAIHr.-Our morning meeting is well attended, and there seems to be an increased interest taken in the evening service. Sis. Dargin and her husband have recently removed to our town from Broken Hills, and we hope to have them both us in the future. We recommenced an adult Bible Class in connection with the Sunday School on August 7th. Thirteen attended. Bro. A. Green, who happened to be with us at the time, conducted, taking for his subject "Paul's Desire to Depart." The evening preach-

SEPTEMBER, 1910. ing services have Foster. Yea rbury, been fi lied by Bros. and the Secretary. D.D.

THE

BIBLE

STANDARD.
, OI:lOZ:::=O

l4B
some of the old members still working in the Band at the present time. Our brother then described how a building fund was formed, a large sum being collected. He also spoke of the circulation of the BIBLE ST.\XDAlm, and how its teachings were brought before the public. Every Christian should be a worker. If we are ill tune with Christ. we have no fear that our Christian' Band will be a fa ilure. 131'0. Wileock spoke of the work of the Sunshine Committee, and' told of some needv ones who had been helped thereby. Considering the weather, we had a good a ttendance. Many messages were received from absent members, and t . Roll Call was well responded e to. The messa,gp to absent members is found in ~ral. iii. 16. On August 15th Bro. A. Smith pre sided. Three papers on "Pilgrim Characters" were read, D. Wilcoek taking "Christian," J. Aldric1ge "Faithful," and J. Stow "Pliable." Vi'e were shown how the pilgrim Christian was the most prominent in Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress." Il is jou rncy to the Cross was then described. The pilgrim Faithful was next put before us. When Faithful set out Oll his journey he escaped many difficulties which Christian had' faced. When Faithful was journeying through Vanity Fair. he was very quietly dressed, but this was so unusual to the people that they followed! him, annoying him with quest.ions. Then Faithful and his friends were locked in a, cave. They bore their punishment vpry meekly, and others were won over to thei r side. The story concluded with the death of Faithful. Pli~ble was the next pilgrim described, and after various remarks from the members the meeting was closed with prayer. J. STOW.

O=::JOI:IO'

DUiiEDDI.-Ol\l' meetings during the past month have suffered somewhat through sickness among the members, but now that the spring weather has set in, we trust a 11 will be restored to health a ndi able to take their place again at the meetings. 'Ye 'have had our Bro. Grigg, of Auckland, with us for the last month. Such visits are always enjoyable, and help to bring us in closer touch with the brethren meeting in other parts of the Dominion. The building of our church is making satisfactory progress, and we hope to give the date of opening in the next month's STANDARn. S.L. GEOR(ll':'fOWii, B.G.-If there was ever time when it has been necessary to take the whole armour of God, it is surely now. Look at the state of Christendom, worm-eaten with heresies, "holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof." Much is expected from the Brother'hoods-e-by their means peace will be brought to the sons of men. III them all sects can meet and f ra ternise (I was told that I could not he a member because I denied the immortality of the soul). More are joining the Brotherhoods than are joining the Church. which surelv means that the standard of the former is not so high as that of the latter. Is the Church to be further dragged down? At one of my recent meetings a listener asserted that he was born again, andi wished to -prove it, and I gave him the opportunity. I quite enjoyed the discussion that followed, and the people gave close attention as I expounded the Scriptures on this important subject. There is an American evangelist here just now, who is setting forth the usual idea of the New Birth, and he is drawing large audiences. Many are professing salvation, and claim to be on the way to glory. Some of these I have met, and they claim to have more light and: more of the Spirit than one who accepts the doctr-ine of Life by faith, and who looks and waits for the return of the Lord Jesus Christ as the great object of Hope. This profession of the possession of much of the Spirit is often made whilst the professor sets aside the Word given by the Spirit. At some of my street meetings I have had much opposition when speaking upon Man's Nature. but I am still persuaded that Bible testimony is the only sure guide upon this and upon man's destiny, and so I glad'lv continue the message.it

0::=::a01:l0'

~~!~

,01:101==0

ViI.

S.

EOGEHlLT..

Tell

Him

Twenty

Times.

Teachers who sometimes grow discouraged from what- seems to be useless iteration, may take heart of hope from Susanna Wesley. Her husband once asked concerning their son Charles: "How can you tell that boy a thing twenty times 1" She replied: "Because if I had told him only nineteen times I should have lost my labour."-New York

Observer.

On July l Sth Bro. A. Smith presided. .-\ paper entitled' "Our Father's Care" was read. from which we gained many useful thoughts. It is n glorious thought lo have One who never slumbers or sI peps to care for us. Not even a sparrow falls to the ground without His knowing. Everything in nature turns our thoughts to "Our Father's Care." We must let God's Love fill our hearts. Prayer is a privilege. Take the Bible as our guide. The Wo rd of God reveals our own sinful hearts. To clo good to others we must remember all these things. The Scriptures, especially the psalms, are full of the praises of God. How true it is that if we smile, all nature seems to smile with us. One of the most useful points brought out in the paper is, that all through our life we shouldllive wholly in "Our Father's Care." Bro. Sal isbury spoke a few words, after which the meetillg was concluded in the usual manner. July 25th: Bro. G. Alclridge conducted L.e Reading Circle, as usual. He commenced by giving a little sidelight into the different characters of the men with whom Bunvan came in contact. Probably in th'is town there are men like those whom Bunyan represented' in his "Pilgrim's Progress," and' a nswer'ing to his descriptive names. After th is little explanation, the speaker sketched the life of Fa ithful. He also told how Hopeful was made a believer by the influence of Christian and Faithful. We should endeavour to live like this, so that others mav see that we have been with Jesus. The character of By-ends was here brought into view. One may describe him as outwardly a believer, but inwa rdly quite the reverse. Everybody in life has an end'; but we are all looking forward! to a definite end. Now, By-ends sought only to obtain all he could for himself. It was here explained how some men will do anything to obtain wealth, even to using the Church to better their position in life. Hold fast to Jesus Christ and His teachings, for all the things of the world will go; but eternal things will remain. After various remarks from the different members, the meeting closed in the usual way. At the Roll Call meeting on August Ist the subject, "Our Christian Band," was introduced by Bro. Chas. Garrett. It is desirous to get hold of the young that they may be able to take a definite stand in the world, and become useful citizens. The Christian Band has been of great assistance to the young, and its influence has spread. vVe have only to look around our congregation and see how many there are that once belonged to the Band. Our brother then outlined the history of the movement. In 1888 a Christian Endeavour was started for young men. Later a meeting was formedi for young women. In 1898 the two corn-: bined, forming what has since been known as the Christian Band. There are

One Method

of

Whipping.

Many children have been truthfully told thn t a whipping hurts the mother more than the child; and some thus informed have considered this a fairy tale, related merely for effect. One boy recently said out.right, "I don't believe it; it can't hurt you as it hurts me." The next time this mother found it necessary to whip the boy, she placed the strap in his hands and said, "My son, I intend taking your punishment upon myself; I want you to strap me well across the hands." The child was horrorstricken at the idea of striking his mother, and refused to do it. She insisted, and he still refused. At last she did not insist further, but took him, sobbing, into her arms. She then explained to him that now he could understand what she had meant when she told him that to whip him hurt her more than ,it did him, and if ever again he should be so disobedient as to need a whipping she woulu insist on taking it upon herself; that she would not let him off another time. From that day the boy became a thoughtful little fellow, to whom the word "whipping" was as a nightmare, and there was never any question as to whether he would or would not do what he was tolcl.-The Circle.

144
~\lr
'"

THE :JBooh 1ist.

BIBLE

STANDARD.

SEPTEMBEB, 1910.

~be :fl3ible $tan~ar~. ,

MR. E. PIlIPPS, 31, The Bible Standard MU. A. M. SKEATES, can be ordered dtrect from the 'I'reasurer Queen Street, Auckland. s. d. Price per annum, post free. . 2 G Single copies . . 0 2 BOOK S'l'EWARD-E. PHIPPS, 31,. High Street.

Orders to be sent to the Book Steward, High Street, Auckland.

Positive Theology, by Miles Grant, 4/6. Duration and Nntnre of Future Punishment, by H. Constable, 3/6. Rheol v. Hades, by T. F. Pells, 3/6. The (jiver and His Gifts, by E. W. Bullinger,,3/-. Thp. Unspeakable Gift, by .J. H. Pettingel l, 3/-. Royal Rights and Happy Years, by W. Leask, 3/-. The Prophet Daniel-Lectures by Geo. Aldridge, 2/6; post 3d. The Eight Signs of St . .John's Gospel, by F. Madeley, J\LA., 2/6. Condi tionalism, by F. L. Piper, 2/-. The Word of the Kingdom, by .J. O. Woodruff, 1/6. The Star Evangel, by Geo. Aldridge, boards 1/6, cloth 2/6. Addresses on the Atonement, by Geo. Aldridge, 1/-. The Doctrine of Immortality, by Jas. H. Whitmore, 1/-. The Bible Doctrine of the Soul, by C. L. Ives, 1/-. Future Probation, by W. G. Moncrieff, 1/-. ThE' Promise of Life, by .J. F. B. Tinling, B.A., 1/-. Immortality in Old Testament Times, by \V. G. Moncrieff, 1/-. Eternal Principles, by Miles Grant, Gd, Forgotten Themes, by G. A. Brown, Gd. Pauline Theology, by W. Leask, 6d. The Nature of Man, by W. Broadbent, 6d. The Kingdom of God, by Geo. Aldridge, 6d. In Quest of Truth, by Geo. Aldridge, 6d. The Prophecy on Olivet, by Geo. Aldridge, 6d. The Fourth Prophetic Empire, by Geo. Aldridge, 4d. Berean Siftings, by Geo. Aldridge, 4d. Tnevitable Immortality, by Canon Liddon, 4d. Earnests of Redemption, by Geo. Aldridge, 3d. Goel's Eternal Purpose, by Geo. Aldridce 3d. Uncle Daniel's Bible Class, by S. Wil;o~, 3d. Why I am a Christian, by S. Stokes, 3d. Rpiritism-Demonism, by A. Smith, 2d. The Spirit in Man-What is it? by Miles Grant, 2d. Christ, the Source of Immortality, by A. G. Wilkinson, 2d. The Rich Man and Lazarus, by Geo. Aldridge, 2d. The Valne of a True Eschatology, by F. Madeley, M.A., 2d. The History of an Immortal Soul, by S. S. Brewer, 2d. The Claims of Conditional Immortality, by R. H. Strang, Id. What is Man?" by Miles Grant, Id. The Elon ~f Man Coming in His Kingdom, by C. C. Brown, Id. Our Lord s Retnrn the Christian Hope, by Geo. P. McKay, Id. That Blessed Hope, by F. W. Sceats, Id. The End Near, by C. E. Brooks. Id. Rpirit, Soul, Body, by R. H. Judd, Id. The Spirits in Prison, by Geo. Aldridge, Id. Opportnnities for Salvation in an After Life, by C. C. Brown, Id. .Ierusalem . The Metropolis of the World, by W. Leask, Id. Soul, by W. G. Moncrieff, Id. Spiritualism, True or False? by C. E. Brooks, Id.

AGENTS FOR THE BIBLE STANDARD: NEW ZEALAND. Auckland--l\lr. Hancock, Bookseller, Queen Street. Weliington-H. J. Barraclough. Myrtle Crescent. Dunedin-Mr. Lawrence, Hope Street. Kaiapoi-Mr. James Holland. Rangiora-Mr. Wm. Smith, South Brook. New Plymouth-Mr. Fred Goodacre, Conrtney Road. East Oxford-Mr. A. England. Thames-Mr. C. Sanders, Macky Street. 'I'Imaru-c-Mr. H. H. King, Stafford Street. 'I'Inwald, Ashburton-Mr. Shearer. Waihi-Mr .. Toseph Foster. SOUTH AUS'l'RALIA. Adelaide--Mr. C. Gamble, Magill Road, Stepney. Sydney-Mr. NEW SOU'l'H WALES. I-I. Cropp, Gray Street, Kognra h.

Communications to the Editor to be addressed: GEO. ALDRIDGE, Brentwood Avenue, Mount Eden. Telegraphic Address, "Rocky
Nook." Standard

All communications to the Association and orders for Bible to be addressed to the Secretary, MR. ALEX. PAGE. Murdoch Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland.

CHURCH

OF

CHRIST

Hold Services as under: ATWKLAND-West Street. Sunday, at 11 o'clock a.m., Fellowship Meeting. 6.45 p.m., Preaching Service. Sunday School at 2.45. Wednesday evening, Bible Class at 7.45. Evangelist's address-Geo. Aldridge, Brentwood Avenue, Mount Eden. Secretary-Mr. J. If: Ward, Stanle y Street, Arch Hill MOUN'l' nOSKILL, Corner Waiters Road ani! Emma StreetSunday at 11 a.m., Fellowship Meeting. Sunday at 6.45 p.m., Preaching Service. Sunday School at 2.45 p.m. Hall, Hamilton East. at 11 a.m., Fellowship Meeting. at , Preaching. Hall, Stuart Street. at 11 a.m., Fellowship lIieeting. 6.30 p.m., Preaching Service. Wednesday evening. at 7.45, Christian Band Meeting is held in Kroon's Reception Room, St. Andrew Street. Church Secretary-Miss S. Lawrence, Hope Street. HELENSVILLE-Church. Sunday, Fellowship Meeting, at 11 a.m . Sunday School at 2.30. Sunday Evening, Preaching, 7. Church Secretary, R. M. Cameron. THAMES--Pollen Street Lecture Hall. Sunday at 11 a.m., Fellowship Meeting. Evening Service at 6.30. Sunday School at 2.30. Evangelist-Chas. Waterhouse, Heale St., Parawal. Secretary-Chas. Sanders, Mackay Street, Thames. W AIHI-Church, Main Street. Sunday, 11 a.m., Fellowship Meeting. Sunday, 2.30 p.m., Sunday School. Sunday Evening, at 7, a Public Address. Church Secretary-D. Donn ldson. Evangelist-Joseph Foster, Waihl. TIMARU-Sophia Street Hall. Secretary's Address-H. H. King, Stafford Street, 'I'Irnaru. HASTINGS, HAWKES' BAYSunday at 7 p.m., in the Old Library Ha.ll, for Fellowship; Breaking Bread. ann Address. Acting- Secretary's Address: J. W. Walker, Willowbank Road, Hasting-s. ADELAIDE, S.A.-Druids' Hall. Beulah Road, Norwood. Secretary's Address-c-Miss L. L. Blackeby, 226, Rundle St., Adelaide, S.A. HAMILTON -Masonic Sunday, Sunday, DUNEDIN-Oddfellows' Sunday

'{treasurer' s !lch.llow[e~\ll1lents.
Mission F'und.-Helensville Church (2 subs.) , Mesdames Wild, Moon, Dixon, Messrs. C. C. Brown, Wright, Le Roy (Great Barrier), Mrs. Walter Wright, Messrs. Henry Hewin (2 subs.) , D. Murgatroyd, Andirew Fleetham, A. and P. Ashby, .J. H. vVard, M . .J. Bridson, B. Garsiar, A. Thomson (2 subs.) , Mesdames Beecroft, Bruce, Noble, Messrs. T. Phi lip, Hardy, Baker, .Ienkins, H. L . .Iudkins (2 subs.),.J. H. Miller, Christie, Hall, W. H. Cropp (UB.A.), McKeown, Sheldon.
20/8/10. W. A. BUNKER.

Standard Subscriptions.-Mesdames Rowbotham, Pearson, Shaw, Messrs. Sheldon, sen., Blomfield, W. G. Smith (Texas), T. 1'. ,Judkins, T. H. Robinson, C. Hayhow, Eaten, D. Mitchell, Dunedin Agency, Thames Church Sales, 'I'imaru Sales.
A. M. SKEATES, Treasurer.

Printed by the BRETT PRINTING AND PUBLISHING COMPANY, hort S land Street, for the New Zealand Evangelistic and Publ lca.tton ' Association, and published by W. A. SMITH, Selwyn Road, Mt. Albert, SEPTEMBER, 1910.