Considering the calamitous condition of society in every corner of the world, it is a great blessing that the Household of Faith continues to be able to follow the apostle’s instructions in Hebrew 10:25: “not forsaking the assembling of yourselves together . . . exhorting one another . . .” This is no chance or accident, it is a blessing from the Lord! Eventually, conditions will be so bad that, unless for the elects’ sake the days are shortened, no flesh would be saved (Matthew 24:22).
We assemble in a diversity of ways, now possible at least in most of the western world. Such is not yet possible in certain parts, e.g. the Soviet Union, where that invaluable, powerful and life-giving Word is carefully kept clandestinely behind a loose brick wall, or some other place safe from hands that would destroy it, available for use by the handful of faithful in Christ when opportunity is present.
What an inestimable heritage we have, therefore, in this part of the world. Let us be thankful but not complacent about this. The ecumenical movement under way, or perhaps other factors which are not apparent at this time may influence a change, “and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10: 25). If we who are grafted into the natural tree are to continue to be a praise to the Most High, we need strengthening, with strength which can come only from a knowledge of truth, and blessing from above, which will make us free (John 8:36).
A most effective means of enlightenment during the past few years has been the Bible Schools, thus providing a means whereby brethren, knowledgeable in the Word, can come from all parts of the globe for the succoring of those who seek for truth and who search for the love and mercy contained in the fathomless depths of Yahweh’s Word. Who could disagree?
There should be a tribute of gratitude and encouragement to the committees who work tirelessly to organize and run the schools! But think again of those brethren who come to teach or are sent ( ?) and some of the comments expressed by those who listen at the schools, and particularly afterward during extended speaking tours among the ecclesias: “speaks too fast;” “speaks too long;” “too broad an accent;” “doesn’t handle his subject well;” “my favorite is,” and so on. If the teaching brethren are invited, this ought not to be because it shows partiality and has a negative effect on one’s ability to perceive. If they are Sent by the Lord for the strengthening of His ecclesias, it most certainly ought not to be because it would be an audible reflection of a lack of appreciation for a blessing received. It is our habit to invoke a blessing each time we pray — it should be recognized when it is given. They each have a message, which, predicated upon the Word, can be of benefit to all, although delivered in a different tone and in a different manner.
Now these are attitudes shown by some who listen, if they ARE listening. Many are not; but it should be quickly noted that apparently not a few would have paid double the registration fee, but could not attend because of lack of accommodation. Then there are those who, with rejoicing, sit through the lectures (at the schools and afterwards), sometimes on rather hard seats, like rows of vacuum cleaners, drawing in the messages with the resultant spiritual benefits. It was likewise in the days when the Word of Yahweh was Sent to Israel via the prophets. There were those who listened and murmured, those who didn’t listen at all, and those who gladly received the weight and responsibility of every word. These are they who called upon the name of the Lord.
Wisdom is now revealed by the calling upon Him by whom we have received the atonement (Romans 10:13-15). For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One