Mailbox: C: Nov. 1998 – present

To: Marcus Chapman
Thu, 29 Jan, 2009

Dear Marcus,
Thanks for you prompt reply and all the interesting Park Street information. You will see that I have forwarded the pertinent part of your reply to C. Chen and Reg Flowerdew.

We are both as well as may be expected, thank you. Yes, we have had it very cold and a great deal of snow -- more than usual. I only get out occasionally, even in good weather.

Glad you are making progress on the GRC notes. Perhaps you would send them meeting by meeting as you complete them so that I can work along.

Thanks for the "notes of the 'assembly meetings' in Hornchurch over GRC" -- which I do not appear to have. Unfortunately, as they are in a 'DAT file' I cannot open it. Would it be possible for you to convert to a text file? This would be appreciated, if possible, as it is undoubtedly a valuable historical document and should be on MB.

Love in our Lord Jesus from Betty and myself to you and Janette, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Fri, 06 Feb, 2009

Dear Gordon,
We have a young brother here who is deeply interested in the history of the brethren and who would be willing to give these dear brethren a tour of the "Darby" sites in London -- the house where he was born, his school, the hose where he lived etc.

• He tells me that 57 Park Street is now a block of flats and there is not a lot to see. He knows the sites of GVW's grave, Edward Denny and FER. Would you like to put brother Chen in touch with him?

With much love from us here, Your brother in Him, Marcus.

From: Marcus Chapman
Tues, 10 March

Dear brother Gordon,
Thank you so much for your interesting enclosure from Christian Chen. We were really interested to learn about his visit to the Uk and more importantly the spiritual blessing that he and others have received from brethren ministry.

• May the Lord continue to bless you and encourage you in your work through the web-site.

Please find enclosed the first of some GRC ministry not in current circulation. Janette and others are typing up further notes as promised, but I thought we should not keep you waiting for what is ready!

• We pray that the Lord will use GRC's ministry to bless a wider audience via the web-site.

• I always enjoy his introductions to the subjects he selected for his 3 day meetings -- they are so useful to get the scope of the subject. I don't know what you think, Gordon, but I always appreciate getting the scope of a chapter before plunging into the detail. I wish we were more able for this in our bible readings!

May the Lord bless you and those working with you,

To: Marcus Chapman
Fri, 13 March, 2009

Dear Marcus,
Thanks for your kind words as to MB -- and especially for the files of GRC's ministry which you and Janette and others are transcribing.

• They all look very interesting although I have only read the address on 'Leadership'. If the clear principles brought out there had been followed it would have prevented the terrible breakdown beginning in 1959.

• Yes, I too have found his introductions most helpful. It is important to understand the general outline of truth in order to fully appreciate the details.

I am presently finishing up a rather large project, soon to be posted on the bio of JBS-- a detailed listing of his ministry.

• I hope it will encourage looking into his ministry by those who have the books or CD, and perhaps lead others to obtain them. As soon as that is completed I will begin formatting the items you have kindly sent.

Thanks again to you and Janette and your fellow workers.

From: Marcus Chapman
Fri, 13 March, 2009

Dear brother Gordon,
Please find attached 1 incomplete set of meetings at Markinch. Unfortunately 1 double sided page is missing!

• Also attached is an outline of the assembly meetings leading up to his withdrawal. It is quite clear to me that the whole matter was a "put-up" job with brothers from outside the locality heavily influencing young, unspiritual men, within the locality.

• I do feel it is a worthwhile record to publish. One of the 3 signatories is still alive and has no objections to its being made available in a wider way.

I heartily agree with you as to the article on "Leadership". What we might have been saved from.

We shall look forward to your list of JBS ministry. We are both enjoying his ministry at the present moment.

We have a fellowship meeting tomorrow with a younger brother from Worthing -- Phil White. His father was local in Putney (London) for many years and kew Mr Gratten well.

Our much love in the Lord Jesus to you and Betty, Marcus.

To: Marcus Chapman
Sat, 14 March, 2009

Dear Marcus, Many thank for the GRC Markinch notes and the outline of assembly meetings. All will be valuable additions to MB. Please thank all who have worked on the notes.

The list of JBS ministry has just been posted and so I will be able to start the formatting of the GRC notes. This will take some time but I may post each group as completed. Will let you know how things progress.

Your mention of Worthing brings back memories. I stayed there with Ray and Nan Henry in 1964 for the Dorking meetings.

With love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Thu, 30 April, 2009

Dear Gordon and Betty, Here are 2 more articles that you may be interested in for your web-site.

• One is by Charles Cooper of Belfast on the "Son of God". We found it very helpful on the "sonship" matter and would be interested to know what you think of the article.

• The other is an address by GRC at Romford on the "Wisdom of God", it goes with the meetings there already sent to you.

Those who have helped in the previous notes are:—

• Tim Knappett, local with us in Croydon, timknappettATf2s.com, and Margaret Trim (Janette's sister), local with David Burr in London .marg.trimATgmail.com.

• Gavin Simpson of Woking made the articles available to us, gavinsimpsonATonetel.com.

We do hope that you are both well and that now the weather is improving, you will feel stronger.

Should any more ministry come our way that is not yet on your site, we will do our best to get it to you. We have very much enjoyed these recent articles and desire to make them available to a wider audience.

We join in sending our love and greetings in the Lord to you both, Marcus.

To: Marcus Chapman
Mon, 4 May, 2009

Dear Marcus,
Thanks for your continuing service. An email has been sent to those who helped you and their names shown in appropriate spot on 'Site News: Thanks to Helpers'.

I agree, the article by CWC on sonship is excellent and is a good addition to the few items we have of his ministry.

Certainly, we will be glad of any items that come to light and, of course, will be happy to hear from you at any time.

Betty joins in love in Christ to you and Janette, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Mon, 9 Nov, 2009

Dear Gordon,
I hope that this email finds you and your wife well. I am sorry not to have been in touch with you more regularly but I still have a busy schedule with work and meetings etc.

Robert has been in touch with you and has suggested to me that we include C W Cooper's address at Bournemouth in our next issue. Provided you are happy for me to correct a few typos and make a few minor amendments (I will send you the proofs).

• I agree with Robert [Munster] that the article sets out the general principles of separation very clearly and I feel it could help many brethren to see things more clearly.

I would be glad of your comments on our exercise to publish notes of reading meetings. The brethren with whom we walk publish addresses and much good ministry, but we feel there is a gap in that there are no notes of recent reading meetings being published.

I greatly appreciate and value the work that you undertake to provide a web site where all may come and find good teaching and I trust that you will be enabled to continue this valuable service.

You will be interested to know that we that over a 10 year period we have had over 80 persons from the streets around come in to the Hall in Croydon where we meet to hear the gospel. We thank the Lord for the opportunities we are being given to reach out to a few souls.

• It gives us an incentive to maintain a gospel preaching, as well as to seek to be preserved in the light of Christ and the assembly.

Do please pray for us that the Lord will continue to bless this tiny outreach.

With love in the Lord Jesus in which Janette joins, Your brother Marcus.

To: Marcus Chapman
Wed, 11 Nov, 2009

Dear Marcus,
It's always good to hear from you, but I well understand how various pressures hinder. Your comments on the work of MB are appreciated.

I'm quite happy for you to use CWC's Cleaving, with editing as required. A source credit to MB would be appreciated.

Your "exercise to publish notes of reading meetings" is timely. The first issue read well.

• If you wish, we would be glad to include a notice in MB's "Site News: Bulletins" and "Site News: Bible and Books". Just send us a draft text, including how to subscribe -- it may be edited for space, formatting etc.

It's good to hear of your local exercise and some interest in the gospel. How important to maintain the truths of the assembly and the gospel together. Certainly should be remembered in prayer!

Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Sat, 17 Feb, 2010

Dear Gordon,
I have not been in touch for a while as things are pretty hectic here!

I do trust that you and Betty are both well and managing well during the cold winter that you are experiencing! It has been the coldest here for 30 years! We, of course, are not used to long periods of snow over here!

I enclose copies of notes of meetings that Robert Munster and I are preparing and circulating. I wonder if you would be interested in receiving a copy?

At the moment some of our brethren are not happy for ministry to be published on the internet, so I can only let you have these notes for your own private reading.

Please do not be offended, but some of the older ones are deeply suspicious of the Internet and do not view it as a means to circulate the precious truths that we have been so privileged to have set before us.

Could I ask for your help on a metter? I have nothing on my shelves, apart from JND, on the Book of Hebrews. Can you point me in the right direction please?

With love and greetings in the Lord Jesus to you both, Marcus

Issue 2 Feb 10.pdf is for viewing on the screen

Issue 2 Compact Feb 10.pdf is for simple printing, with 2 pages per A4 side

Issue 2 Booklet Feb 10pdf has the pages ordered suitable for printing as a booklet -- print pages 1-10, turn the complete stack over (flip on short edge) then print pages 11-20 on the back.

To: Marcus Chapman
Sun, 28 Feb, 2010

Dear Marcus,
Good to hear from you again and that you both are surviving the weather. We have had a pretty mild winter here so far, but the east coast is having much snow and cold. Thanks for the new email addresses.

Betty and I are reasonably well for 80/81, but I now use a power chair to get around the retirement home.

Regarding ministry on Hebrews see JBS 4, FER 9, CAC 23, JT 2 & 19. These showed up easily on the KBT cd.

Thanks for the PDF of ministry. Yes I would be glad to receive future issues. The PDF for viewing on the screen would be sufficient, although I'm interested to see you will be printing as well.

Not offended at all, these suspicions as to technological innovations are not new. Probably some were suspicious of the printing press.

You may recall I wrote on Nov. 11, 2009:

• Your "exercise to publish notes of reading meetings" is timely. The first issue read well.
  • If you wish, we would be glad to include a notice in MB's "Site News: Bulletins" and "Site News: Bible and Books". Just send us a draft text, including how to subscribe -- it may be edited for space, formatting etc."

• The offer still stands. We also have a notice re Stone Publishing, so you would be in good company.

Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010

Hello Gordon,
I have been looking for a photo of Janette and myself, together with our sons, to send you, but all our photos are with one of us taking them! Here is one of me, and I will send you one of all of us as soon as we can get someone to do the honours! Would rather you do not put this on your web-site!

Love in the Lord, Marcus

To: Marcus Chapman
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010

Dear Marcus,
Interesting to see you -- as close as face to face as we shall likely get down here. A family photo will be very welcome!!

In Him, Gordon.

TO: Marcus Chapman
Fri, 10 Dec, 2010

Dear Marcus and Robert [Munster],
Thanks and congratulations on your continuing labours.

I may have suggested before, but will risk repetition: Have you considered setting up a web site? You have sufficient good material to warrant one.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon,

From: Marcus Chapman
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010

Dear Gordon,
I am so glad to hear from you. Janette and I were just talking about you and Betty last night! I do trust that you are both well and keeping warm. We have just had 30cms of snow in the South East of England which is unusual here for early December!

as so encouraged by your suggestion about a web-site as it is something that we have been thinking about for some time. My sons are very "computer literate" and I already have a web-site that could be used.

• We just need to consider the question of whether we give unlimited access or make it password controlled. I would value your view on this.

I believe that you did offer, a while ago, to put a reference to "Notes" on your website? If this is so would you be willing to put something like this on?

• "If you would like to receive by email a copy of notes of readings and addresses that the Lord has recently given in the UK and Europe, please send your email to Marcus Chapman and a copy will be sent to you. We expect to publish 3 or 4 issues each year, if the Lord will. We would appreciate your prayers that the Lord may use these notes to build up and encourage His people in these difficult days."

We are embarking today on a study of the Feasts of Jehovah and about 30 of the young in our area are expected to come to our home this afternoon. I expect that you may already have read it, but there is a very useful book sold by "Chapter 2" in London called "The Seven Feast of Jehovah" by G C Willis. It was first written for translation into Chinese and is published by Bible Light Publishers, Kowloon, Hong Kong. The writer draws from JND and Trotter and scripture quotations are from JND's Bible. If you are free to refer to it on your web site, I think it may help saints as there is both typical teaching and prophetic teaching in these feasts!

Our very warm love to you and Betty,
Yours very affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Marcus

To: Marcus Chapman [& Robert Munster]
Sat, 11 Dec, 2010

Dear Marcus,
Good to hear from you! Yes, we are reasonably well as we trust you both are. We heard of your snow fall -- similar to ours.

Glad you are considering a web site. As to "whether we give unlimited access or make it password controlled" I have copied below from our 'Ministry: Introduction' which commends itself and has guided us. When I first came among the brethren, c. 1950, I was told that the ministry is for all.

• "Ministry today has to be carried on in relation to those most of whom have little or no confidence in the ministers. I am not speaking of those who walk with us in fellowship; but ministry is not for them alone; ministry is for the whole assembly. It does not say that God has set certain in fellowship, but that he has set certain in the assembly; 1 Cor. 12: 28.

• "He has set the gifts in the assembly and their ministry has the whole assembly in view; but most of those who form the assembly have little or no confidence in those who are walking in the truth, and who are seeking to minister it. Ministry is therefore extremely difficult at the present time, and we shall prove this to our sorrow if we undertake it lightly, if we undertake it in natural effort or ability." Ministry by J. Taylor, 24: 34, Barnet, 1925.

Shortly, I will put your notice in MB's 'Bulletins' and also on 'Site News: Bibles and Books'. When you have decide on a web site we can add that reference as well.

It is certainly good to learn of the encouragement in Croydon and especially the interest of young people to search the Scriptures. If I recall correctly, Mr. G. C. Willis was a Canadian who laboured in China and was -- at one time at least -- connected with the TW exclusives.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Fri, 17 Dec, 2010

Hello dear brother,
I just wanted to share a little encouragement with you as I have just recived an email from a brother requesting the notes saying he heard about them on your web-site. I do appreciate your putting the notice on your site. May the Lord continue to bless your labours!

With our much love in the Lord to you both, Marcus.

From: Marcus Chapman
Thu, 10 Feb, 2011

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for sending me news of a dear brother who, it appears, finds himself alone as the result of unsound teaching permeating the company of saints where he lives.

• I can truly sympathise with him as my family and I left the Taylor [Junior] Brethren in 1968 for similar reasons.

• I will send him an email to express my sympathy and will pray that the Lord will give him comfort and guidance.

Thank you for the helpful articles you sent me a while ago on the subject of ministry being for the whole church. I feel that if I set up a web-site, it would have to be open to all,

• but I would need to make sure that,as far as possible, all articles inserted had been carefully edited. I could not publish unedited material. I would be glad on your views on this.

Could you point me to any ministry on the Christian calling? The Apostle Paul speaks often of the calling and the apostle Peter speaks once of it.

With love in the Lord to you both.
Your brother in Him, Marcus.

To: Marcus Chapman
Thu, 10 Feb, 2011

Dear Marcus,
I appreciate your willingness to contact Laurens Overduin, and look forward to hearing any news.

You are quite right as to the need of careful editing of any articles put on a web site. This of course also applies to printed notes.

• It was quite an issue in JT's time. See: History: Stow Hill: 1942: Author-Editor-Publisher Relations and Responsibilities.

Re "the Christian calling", try --

• JT 38: 418, The Heavenly Calling --
  MB Ministry: CAC 6: The Calling Wherewith We are Called --
  MB Ministry: F. S, Marsh 2: Citizenship.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Marcus Chapman
Tue, 31 Jan 2012

Hello my dear brother,
We do hope that you and your wife are keeping well in spite of the cold weather, which I am sure is much worse with you!

I am sorry not to have been in contact sooner, but the last 6 months have been quite difficult for us. Just over 4 years ago Janette's father came to live with us from Peterhead [Scotland] due to the development of alzheimers.

• His condition steadily worsened until in July last year we had to put him in a specialist care home. This, as you can imagine, was a very traumatic thing for us both as we had hoped to be able to care for him until the Lord took him.

• He spent 4 months in a Home near to us where they looked after him very well. In October he suffered a major stroke and never regained consciousness and was taken home in that month.

• We have just returned from a visit to Peterhead - 600 miles away - where we had to clear his home of 50 years! As you can imagine it has not been easy but we have experienced the Lord's help in a very real way.

• It is only a typed copy, and therefore is not signed. It makes very interesting reading.

• Also with this document is a copy of a letter from a brother in Aberdeen who wrote to JT senior about the association question and with also quotes from JT's reply.

• We just wondered whether they would be of interest to you for "my brethren" or even for your personal interest? If you would like them we would need, I think, to copy type them onto Word and send them to you.

To: Marcus Chapman
Mom, 6 Feb 2012

Dear Marcus,
So good to hear from you.

The weather here has been reasonably mild for winter.

We can understand the difficult time with the long care of Janette's father and the anguish at the end. Such situations are hard to bear but He has, and will, give strength.

As to the documents, I have a letter of GMS which may be the same as the one you have. Please compare with:

Aberdeen - A House Divided: Section 9
G. M. Strang To R. W. Drummond - March 2, 1972

I seem to recollect letters to/from JT re associations but cannot locate.

I would certainly be interested in both -- would a photocopy be easier than retyping?

How is your work on ministry with Robert Munster going? I haven't seen any mailings recently.

With much love in our Lord Jesus to you and Janette, Gordon and Betty.

From: Marcus Chapman
Thu., September 26, 2013

Hello my dear Brother Gordon,
It was great to speak to you whilst we were with Tom & Pat Hawkins two weeks ago. I am sorry to learn of your deafness. We had a very happy time with them in Philadelphia and enjoyed the brief visit.

We are being encouraged here in Croydon, but we miss our 2 sons. Andrew is now local in Aberdeen and David in Birmingham.

The Lord sends souls in to our Gospel Meeting from time to time, and we are thankful to be able to give out New Testaments and Tracts in the local area.

We find much encouragement through our local reading meetings and fellowship meetings. However, there is no substitute for personal prayer and reading the scriptures. Also I do find the reading of good ministry a great help. It is wonderful to make use of the gifts God has given to the assembly. I am appreciating more than ever the light God has given over the last 150 years or so. I have never come across anything of a similar nature anywhere else and I just wish that more believers could come to an appreciation of it!

We desire that the Lord continues to bless you in your work with the "mybrethren" website. I will let you know as soon as we have set up the website for "Notes of Meetings"

I thought you might like a photo of us taken this year in our front garden. (Andrew is on the left and David on the right) [See My Pictures - Chapman]

We join in sending our warm love to you and Betty,

Affectionately your brother in our Lord Jesus, Marcus

Dear Marcus,
It certainly was good to speak with you -- and to receive your email and the fine family photo.

Had some interesting correspondence with Robert this past week.

We are quite isolated here and except for email and some visits live a fairly lonely life outwardly.

When we moved to Bethany Manor assisted living 8 years ago - we are now 84 -- I had to pass on almost all my library because of lack of space. Recently, with the help of our young friend, Jeremy Ng, I acquired a Kindle e-reader and downloaded all the ministry of JND, JBS, FER, CAC and JT from the Good Teaching website, owned by Craig McKay, a young brother in Brechin. Jeremy has also converted GRC from our site and so I have much good reading ahead.

May the Lord bless you in your ministry work, Will be glad to hear of your progress.

Betty joins in love to you and Janette and boys in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Wm. S. Chellberg

To: Wm. S. Chellberg
wscATbibles-and-resources.com
Wheaton (Chicago) Illinois, USA
Sun, Sep 25, 2011

Dear Bill,
My name is Gordon Rainbow and my wife Betty is a sister of Mary (Phil) Schaumburg. We visited Chicago many, many years ago. I believe I have heard your name mentioned in contact with my old friend Noel Brien. We remember your father and grandfather as well.

I came upon your web site recently and was impressed with its excellent appearance as well as the breadth of the ministry provided -- a good service for those who might hesitate to contact KBT. May your labours continue to be blessed.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty Rainbow.

From: Wm. S. Chellberg
Sun, Sep 25, 2011

Dear Gordon,
It is nice to hear from you. We, of course, knew Mary Schaumburg well, and also remember your visit.

Through the Lord's mercy we are in fairly good health and keep encouraged of the Lord. We number only 18 locally -- mostly family with many children (9 to 22) for which we are thankful.

I took over maintaining a stock of Bibles from J. (Jimmy) A. Petersen when he could no longer do it, and then finally (after retirement) developed the web site.

• I sell books all over the world and have many very interesting contacts. It has been a fun experience -- however, not profitable!

• The Audio Library of Christian Ministry I developed and read myself -- another interesting project.

I trust you are both well, Doris joins me in sending our love.

With love in Him, Bill Chellberg, wsc@bibles-etc.com

Visit -- www.kjellbergprinting.com
Gary's Blog -- http://kjellbergprinting.blogspot.com/
www.kjellpub.com
www.bibles-etc.com
www.sound-words.com
-- Enjoy!

To: Wm. S. Chellberg
Tue, Sep 27, 2011

Dear Bill,
Thanks for your prompt and brotherly reply -- and the local details, and information as to your work providing bibles and books. Though "not profitable" there will no doubt be a fitting reward from His hands.

I have checked the sites you noted, and some others from your main web site -- all of interest -- and will show yours as a source on our "Site News: Bibles and Books".

Your visits to 'My Brethren' are appreciated -- and I will be happy to hear from you occasionally as warranted.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Wm. S. Chellberg
Tue, Sep 27, 2011

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for your encouraging remarks. Yes, we should stay in contact.

In our precious Lord and Savior, Bill.

Luke Chen

To: Luke Chen
xiaochenATrci.rutgers.edu
Highland Parl, NJ, USA
Fri, 17 Aug 2001

Dear Luke,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Your "goal … to write a book to introduce the history of Plymouth Brethren to Chinese-speaking christians" is quite ambitious, but I have no doubt that the Lord will help you if the exercise is from Himself.

There are a number of reliable articles in the History group of 'My Brethren' which you may consider useful for your project. The items are:

• A Chronicle
• Early Years
• Miller's Last Chapter
• The First 50 Years
• A Review of Truth
• Early Contentions
• Later Contentions.

I will be happy to give you permission to use any or all of them if you will agree to the following conditions:

1. each page to be translated into Chinese in full with no additions, and no omissions without my prior agreement,

2. this 'My Brethren' web site with its URL to be given credit as the source,

3. before printing, a proof of your book, or the sections in which you have the pages from 'My Brethren', to be supplied for review and approval by one of MB's Chinese-speaking friends,

4. a copy of your printed book to be supplied for MB's records and for an announcement of its availability on MB's "Site News: Bulletins".

After you have had opportunity to review the pages noted above, let me know if you are interested in my proposal.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

From: Luke Chen
Mon, 20 Aug 2001

Dear Brother Gordon,
Thanks for your message. Of course I agree to all the conditions you listed.

• Your website contains tremendously rich information. It takes time for me to digest.

• Please understand I am not a historian. I got my M.D. in China and Ph.D. (biochemistry) in the US. Now I am a reseach assistant professor studying esophageal cancer at Rutgers University, New Jersey.

• Six years ago, I became a christian in the Church in Franklin Park of New Jersey, a so-called "local church" dates back to the 1920s.

• Watchman Nee started the so-called "Chinese version of Plymouth Brethren". Witness Lee continued his ministry.

I might be too ambitious, but I truly believe that such a history would benefit Chinese-speaking saints.

• This project may take a couple of years, even much longer than that. I really appreciate your permission for me to use the materials. I am sure I will need your help in the future.

Your brother in Him, Luke.

To: Luke Chen
Tue, 21 Aug 2001

Dear Luke,
The fact that you are not a historian need not deter you. The articles on 'My Brethren' are all from reliable authors and, I believe, can be accepted in full without any qualms.

• Your main responsibility and problem will be to accurately translate, especially any concepts which may not be common in Chinese.

Before you begin any work, it is necessary to add two more conditions:

5. that the English versions of any pages from 'My Brethren' are not to be reproduced in English or any other language except Chinese, their only use offered to you to be for translation into Chinese.
• This is to preserve the integrity and uniqueness of the 'My Brethren' site.

6. that your translations of articles from 'My Brethren' are not to be included in any publications identified in any way with the so-called 'local church', Watchman Nee, Witness Lee, or their publishers.

• This is absolutely necessary to preserve their nonsectarian character. The publication should bear your name only.

I am not questioning your own personal association with the 'local church', etc. – which you openly declared – or I would not have offered to help you in the first place.

• But it is vital that neither I, nor items from my web site, be publicly identified with any group, especially in view of the circumstances.

• You may not be aware that Watchman Nee and others were identified in fellowship with brethren commonly called 'exclusives' – whose history 'My Brethren' features – for a short period in the 1930's.

• That association ended in an unhappy and sorrowful manner which was never resolved.

I will wait for your acceptance of these additional necessary conditions before confirming my offer to you.

• Then, when you are ready to start please let me know the page with you would like to begin.

• Proofs of each page from 'My Brethren' should be reviewed by my Chinese-speaking friends as completed and not wait until your whole project is completed.

I will be glad to help in any way possible as your work proceeds.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

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Chew

To: Chew
chew_ehATrocketmail.com
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Sat, 16 Oct 1999

Hi Chew,
Glad you found some interesting articles on MB. It would help if you let me know which articles, or kinds of article, were of special interest.

I am sure that – as I would – our other guests would be interested to know more about you, if you would like to share your background and history.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

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Hin Han Chin

From: Hin Han Chin
"han chin" renfredhAThotmail.com
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Sun, 28 Mar 1999

Dear Gordon,
My application [for permanent residence status in U.S.A.] is not under review. Once the dateline is over, there's no continuation. Applicants must apply anew.

I don't know Peter Hsieh of Tawau. I have seen your correspondence with him and I hope your reply opens his eyes.

• The fact of the date of 1848 has shown his critique to be seriously flawed.

• It seemed that the mistake was made by W.N. That mistake has been perpetuated and many more have been misinformed.

I do observe that among the Chinese, misunderstanding of the sciptures or other books written in English often arises from a poor command of English.

• This resulted in their inability to make proper critiques, and their distorted perception of matters.

• Sometimes, attachment to a group gives rise to justifications of matters people know to be wrong.

• But the most important point is that they don't have a basis for comparison like the one you are providing now.

I hope Mr. Hsieh continues to ask questions so that I can understand him better.

• I am trying to understand my elder brother's Buddhist perception of Christianity so that I can be more effective in talking to Buddhists.

• The distorted perceptions (lies) and prejudices were set up as barriers.

Yours in Christ, Han.

To: Hin Han Chin
Sun, 11 Apr 1999

Dear Han,
Thanks for your reply and your perceptive comments on Peter Hsieh's message.

We will be praying for you as you try to understand your my elder brother's Buddhist perception of Christianity.

Please keep in touch. We are very interested in you and your experiences,

Affectionately in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Hin Han Chin
Sun, 18 Jul 1999

Dear Gordon,
Glad to hear from you. I am doing O.K. I haven't touched the internet for about two months because of the various viruses. I haven't received the "Letters of James Taylor" but I look forward to receiving them.

I have been going over the book on Witness Lee that Donald sent to me. That group has been calling me up regularly since I had not shown up at any of their video bible studies.

• I am thinking of doing a study on Witness books and listing out the mistakes for them to see.

• Since Lee's demise they have set up book stores all over the world. Before his death in July 1998, Witness Lee had indicated the Lord will return between 2003 and 2007. I don't think so.

The Sioux Indians' prophetess also made a similar prediction way before Europeans set foot on the Americas

• viz., a white buffalo(bison) will be born on a white man's farm in Wisconsin. That has been fulfilled and even Buddhists have been visiting that farm.

Recently, in Malaysia, there were reported news of charismatic christians getting their teeth fillings all turned into fresh gold as verified by a dentist. Some of them were from my town.

It is a spiritual chaos out there.

Send my warm regards to all the rest as the Lord is preserving us in the current spiritual chaos.

Han.

From: Hin Han Chin
Fri, 29 Dec 2000

Dear Gordon,
I have been reading some of the books you sent me though not regularly.

I am in contact with some believers who believe in the one Church concept. They run a centre called the Aquila Centre: housed with audio and video tapes and a library. It is financed by Dr. Richard Barrow and James Jupinon.

• Dr. Barrow has been my physician since 1989. He knew that I have been visiting a number of "churches" and only recently he understood why I never became a member or stayed long at any one of them.

• We have much in common and think in similar manner. He used to think I should be a member of a "church" but now he sees that I have been better off without being a member. Too many have been turned into charismatic movements.

• Richard and James are both member of the Int'l Christian Chamber of Commerce. A group that believe that jobs and business are a form of worship. I am not a member.

• They believe in stewardship. The charismatics believe in gospel of prosperity. I believe in a seed dying first and baptism, i.e. seeking the kingdom and His righteousness first. The rest will come later.

I cannot come to visit you all for time being but I appreciate all the books you have sent me:

• they have been proven right and the path is much clearer now. Thanks!

Yours affectionately in the Lord, Han.

To: Hin Han Chin
Tue, 02 Jan 2001

Dear Han,
It was both a joy and a relief to hear from you after so long a time,

• and to hear as to the books sent to you, "they have been proven right and the path is much clearer now".

I can well understand the difficulties and discouragement you must feel from your many years of isolation from normal Christian fellowship.

• This leads, as I have personally experienced many years ago, to a desperation for collective Christian companionship, and to further discouragement when attempts at such predictably fail.

• It may seem, and will be, hard but you will be better of to restrict yourself to individual contacts with other believers, seeking the Lord's help to arouse some interest in the great truth of Christ and the assembly

• and how this can only truly be worked out in practice by separation from clericalism and sectarianism.

While normal Christian fellowship on a Scriptural basis is much to be desired, when it is not available the obedient individual can count on the divine presence.

• "He that has my commandments and keeps them, he it is that loves me; but he that loves me shall be loved by my Father, and I will love him and will manifest myself to him … If any one love me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our abode with him", John 14: ,21,23.

Do you have access to the web, or only email? There are many items and correspondence on 'My Brethren' which you would find encouraging.

We hope to hear from you more often as in years past. You are in our prayers daily for blessing, and we long to see you. Betty joins in love to you.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Hin Han Chin
Thu, 25 Jan 2001

Dear Gordon,
Good to hear from you again. I can access the other web sites too; don't worry.

• It is apparent that Dr. Barrow is not that clear on separation to the extent of public association.

• He's aware of the many wrong doings,misconceptions and the stubborness of other leaders in face of corrections.

• Tithing is still so important even to charismatic movements. Their leaders like to excercise control over members in addition to the "churches" budgets.

I am sad to hear about ——. He could be having financial problems. I don't think he wants to be rich.

• God can empower us to get wealth: Deut. 8: 8 and 28: 1-14. 'a good man leaves inheritance for his children's children', Proverbs

• but "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.

• I used to work out financial projections of 50 years at university, i.e. for grandchildren till I met this verse again. I could tell that God is practically very wise.

• The Chinese only plan for their children; not their granchildren. If I am poor I can leave nothing for them.

But God calls us out from the world: Abraham and Jacob left their homeland. Both prospered. Isaac did not enter Egypt but planted on Philistines soil and yielded 100 fold, Genesis.

• The Israelites left Egypt with so much gold but with no shopping centres to spend them on in the desert. The gold was used for the Tebernacle instead. The golden cow was wrong.

• It is very clear that the wicked possess most of wealth in this world but God had said that "the wealth of the wicked are laid up for the just", Proverbs. Why would God rather let the wicked have them instead of the just? For understanding our needs, Matt. 6.

• Could you send these few verses to him for me? Thank you.

Will write again. Yours in Christ, Han.

From: Hin Han Chin
Mon, 19 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon,
I am ok and have been going to some full gospel businessmen non denominational meetings. I got to hear many speakers and pastors speak. I usually go back to check our brethren bible to verify.

I have been listening to the tapes Carl sent me many years ago. Now the views make more sense to me, dsepite baby voice and planes flying around. However I have to turn full volume even with a mini-compo. I just could hear them with my Walkman last time.

• Andrew Robertson, the songs, the messages are more meaningful now. Now I can see the confusion out there. I will be able to explain better with a question approach vs an confrontational one.

Together with Glenn Harris [?], I could raise reason/logical questions for a Pentecostal pastor to reason out things on tithe, Abraham tithe, the Law. baptism of the Holy Spirit, water baptism whether is it the one that washes away our sins or the Lord's blood. Why blood = sacrifice?

• As to when H.S baptism supposed to start?

• Matthew 28, Lord commissions baptism in the Name of three vs. names and why in Acts only in Jesus name? Why would the Lord use 3 person after resurrection and not continued in Act? That such format does not prove Jesus is the same Father and H.S. That Jesus = Jehovah. Any opinion to help me further?

• If full immersion is required then we must baptise only in river and not well. After all the river flows with life and stagnant water = death.

Now I do treasure what Carl has sent me. This way I can hear everybody's voices and get stregthened.

Now many raise and con $$ in the name of Lord and tithe.

Han.

To: Hin Han Chin
Mon, 19 Dec 2005

Dear Han,
Thanks for your full reply. It's good to know how you are getting on but you don't mention your brother this time.

I'm glad you still feel free to ask questions. Very interesting to me, but it may take a little time to get back you on them all.

I'm copying this to Carl and Kee because of their interest in you.

With love in Christ from Betty and myself, Gordon.

To: Hin Han Chin
Fri, 30 Dec 2005

Dear Han,
I'll just try to reply to your questions on baptism this time, and trust the answers won't be too brief to be useful to you.

The one Name in Matthew 28 refers, I believe, to the way the invisible God has been made known in revelation in what we call the 'economy', and avoids any thought of there being three gods.

• There, according to JND, it should read "to the Name". i.e. the one baptized is brought outwardly into relation to God as revealed and known in Christianity.

• In Acts "in the name" stresses the authority of the Lord Jesus, especially necessary to those who had been Jews.

Then have a look at Doctrine: Baptism especially my comments in 'The Mode of Baptism Reconsidered'.

• 'Baptists', by whatever other name, insist on immersion even to the point of insisting on re-baptism if not done by immersion and as an adult believer. This treats all other baptisms in the public church as wrong and is, I believe, an insult to God, known as the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

• The only requirements in Scripture is that baptism be "to the Name …", by the authority of the Lord Jesus and with water. The amount or use of the water is unspecified. Surely baptism was not ordained by God so that it could only be done in countries with a mild climate in deep water or elsewhere in a specially constructed 'baptistry'! You will recall that when you were baptized here it was by pouring of the water.

As to baptism of the Holy Spirit, this took place initially at Pentecost, forming the body of Christ, and subsequently on faith in Christ and His atoning work that others were/are added to the body. 1 Corinthians 12: 13.

• In Acts 10: 44 "the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were hearing the word". Applying this to water baptism suggests pouring rather than immersing.

I'll ry to get back to you on the other points but don't hesitate to write again in the meantime.

With love in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Hin Han Chin
Tue, 4 Jan 2011

Hi Gordon,
This is Han from Malaysia. I hope you receive this email. I know you are old from the audio tapes that Carl Coombs sent me more than a decade ago, so I just hope you can still operate computer. Time flies.

• I met up with Seng Kee in Sept. 2010. He told me about you and Betty.How are you? It has always been that concerns for us have been much a one way from you.

• I don't worship with them but I know many got stuck and frustrated. I avoid argument and highlight Christ.

• I noticed in all controversies, Christ was lost, His love diluted and His message foiled. As long as I talked about Christ, there won't be argument

• I was a bit rusty before these. Topics covered include Trinity ( Isaiah 9:6), Baptism by total immersion, "once saved always saved".

Hope you receive this mail. Love in Christ, Han.

To: Hin Han Chin
Sat, 8 Jan 2011

Dear Chin (Hin Han),
I see you have anglicized your name. It is good to hear from you after such a long time -- and I of course bear part of the responsibility for that. I often wonder how you are getting on. I found the photos very interesting. Thanks

We keep reasonably well for our age -- I am now 81 and have to use a power chair to get around the building. We now live in a Christian retirement home -- six years in April. We are thankful for the provision but it is not like having your own place in so many ways

I'm glad you saw Kee. The Ng family are a great comfort to us being our only local link

• Kee helps me with things I can't physically manage any longer.Lucy takes Betty shopping monthly. Jeremy (19, 2nd year university) and Rachel (16) have been a joy to us since their birth.

I'm thankful you have "grown spiritually" and can be a help to others.

• You are right to not worship with them. Fellowship must be based on common acceptance of the truth as well as common faith.

• And, yes, Christ is always the issue and the solution to every matter!

• As to "Baptism by total immersion" I'm not sure of your position. See the earlier (above) Dec. 2005 reply to you -- I suggest you review it.

I hope you will take advantage of the much good ministry on 'My Brethren' to help in your continued spiritual growth.

We will be glad to hear from you at any time.
Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

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'Chloe' / pseudonym

To: 'Chloe' / pseudonym
cloez2000ATyahoo.com Australia
Tue, 8 Jan, 2002

Dear 'Chloe';
Thank you for visiting 'My Brethren' and for your kind words.

The 'exclusive brethren' in which you are interested is the largest group of those who were at one time in fellowship together and who valued and valued the ministry of JND, JBS, FER, CAC, JT Sr and others, which is featured on 'My Brethren'.

Following the death of James Taylor Sr. in 1953, a legal system developed openly emerging in 1959.

• It was marked by the subtle introduction of erroneous teaching and harsh practices and sadly gained almost universal acceptance.
  • See History: Decline and Departure: 1953-70,

  • Guests: My Stand 1: What went wrong? and

  • Guests: My Stand 1: The Decline of 1950's
    for some relevant information.

• From the early 1960's visitors were not allowed to attend any meetings, including gospel meetings.

• Relatives not in that 'fellowship' were even excluded from burial meetings.

A number of brethren withdrew in 1960 and later – see
History: The Parting of the Ways – 1960's – and in 1970.

• My wife and I left in early 1971 having come to a judgment that the group was leavened by popery clericalism and sectarianism, and could not be changed.

• At the last meeting we attended those who had earlier withdrawn based on their conscience were condemned as "garbage" – the exact word used by them to describe persons bought by the precious blood of Christ.

• Their attitude to other believers is little different and they pretentiously claim "We are the church".

Sadly many worthy brethren remained, held by fear, family connections or financial involvement.

• Now, even those born by 1950 will have little if any memory of better and normal times.

• Many younger ones have left, some apparently unconverted have gone into the world and others into various religious systems.

They may have the books of Darby, Coates and others on their bookshelves. Lip service may be paid to them but the later – and often contrary in letter and spirit – 'ministry' of their current 'universal leader' takes absolute precedence.

Their services probably would appear outwardly similar to before, but the content would have to conform to the latest 'ministry' of their 'leader'.

The above is based on personal knowledge or reliable reports.

• I have replied at length because it is vital that you are not deceived by outward appearances and lured by the desire for separation into a veritable monastic isolation.

• Although I don't have personal contact with them, I understand there are still a few in your country who withdrew but continue to walk in separation without legality.

On a positive note, for what brethren have learned to practice over the years, you might be interested in

• Studies: the Lord's Supper and the Service of God and

• Guests: My Answer 3: Breaking of Bread: Should it be at beginning or end of meeting?.

I trust you will weigh the above carefully, and I will be glad to hear from you again.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: 'Chloe'
Wed, 9 Jan 2002

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for that. There's an Exclusive Brethren chapel, or whatever they are called, at the top of my street.

• I feel a bit envious when I see them arriving for their meetings, as I love the services we have at the Open Brethen, and would like to have more during the week, to stay in that atmosphere, so to speak.

• And I like to see the women in headcoverings and modest clothing.

• But I can see that it's nothing like the way it's meant to be, or like it was originally. How sad.

I was disappointed to find out today when I asked a friend, that the writers like Coates and Taylor and Stoney that I've just discovered, aren't used by the Open Brethren.

• I don't understand why, as I though we came from the same origins.

Yours, 'Chloe'

To: 'Chloe'
Wed, 16 Jan 2002

Dear —,
I can well understand you feeling "a bit envious". Betty and I – after over 30 years apart from them – still miss our brethren and the round of meetings.

• By the way the building is usually called 'the meeting room' or just 'the room'.

My brethren of the 'open' persuasion generally don't read books of 'exclusive' origin for several reasons:

1. most don't know about them,

2. they would be suspicious because of the long standing (from 1848) difference. History: The First 50 Years and History: The Last Chapter on MB.

3. they have been misled as to those authors who have been ignorantly accused of false teaching.

I would be interested to know how you obtained the books of JBS, CAC and JT – and glad to answer any questions you might have.

In the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: 'Chloe'
Sun, 27 Jan 2002

Dear Gordon,
Thanks again for putting me in contact with 'Anonymous 6'. We have begun to email and I hope we will be some help to each other.

About the address for where I get my Brethren type literature. It is: Eastwood Bible Depot, P.O. Box 81, Eastwood, N.S.W. 2122, Australia, Phone 02 9878 2917, Fax 02 9878 1385.

• They have 2nd hand books by J Taylor for $2 (Aust) and from what I can tell, the same books you have on this site.

Yours, 'Chloe'.

To: 'Chloe'
Tue, 29 Jan 2002

Dear 'Chloe',
Thanks for message. I'm so glad that you and 'Anonymous 6' have made contact! Another guest wrote recently:

• "I was able to read Anonymous 6 and 'Chloe's' guest book entries today. I understand Anonymous 6's loneliness and I understand 'Chloe's' confusion as to our relations with one another. I am glad that you were able to encourage them and perhaps Anonymous 6 can make some contacts with some other believers "outside the camp".

Some other friends are praying for the 'two anonymous sisters in Australia'.

The books from Eastwood are likely used but a very good price. Eventually all the ministry of JND, JBS, FER, CAC and JT will be on a CD. This may take up to another year but will be a valuable resource. Although regular books are usually easier to read.

I'd be interested to know something of your history before you began with the 'open' meeting.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: 'Chloe'
Thu, 31 Jan 2002

Dear Gordon,
This is the fourth time I've tried to tell you about my history, as every time it's suddenly been deleted.

Anyway, way back when I became a Christian, in 1988, I was interested in the Exclusive Brethren because of the women and girls wearing the headcoverings.

• I always wondered why my Christian friends and accquaintances didn't do anything about it, but when I asked why we didn't, seeing as it was in the Bible, they brushed it aside.

• I remember a friend saying about the Exclusive Brethren girls at the school where my children went for a while, "Those poor little girls look like they're in absolute bondage in their liitle headscarves …", and I was thinking they looked good.

• I wished we all dressed like that, and it never occurred to me that I could just start wearing one myself.

I went from Anglican to Uniting Church to Assembly of God to Church of Christ to Independent Baptist to Amish-Mennonite and back to the Indepentent Baptist Church before going to the Open Brethren.

• Over those years I was convicted to homeschool, get rid of TV, commercial radio,secular books and contemporary 'Christian' music, and start wearing dresses and a headcovering.

• I was a bit judgemental, privately, about Christians who I thought were doing things the wrong way.

• But somehow I came to learn that if I looked to the Lord Jesus, I couldn't condemn anyone else, there was sort of no room to.

• And I came to see that even if I wore the right clothes, didn't have TV, etc, I could be pleasing God less than the people I had judged, because I wasn't spending enough time being with Him myself, and that that was the main thing.

For different reasons a few people were leaving the church we were at, and I felt like leaving it too, but knew there was nowhere else to go, as I had tried everything else!

• I didn't think of the Brethren, because a few years before, I had rung up a Brethren church and asked if they wore headcoverings, as that was important to me.

• I was disappointed when they said no, that some of the assemblies did, but they thought wedding rings were today's equivalent.

• However my friend who had been to Brethren assemblies years before and said they were 'like heaven on earth' had started going to this local one and told me I would love it.

• I was amazed because I honestly thought there was no good church, and the Lord showed me this one, right in my own back yard, so to speak.

I must sound very fickle, going from church to church, and in a way I am, a bit changeable. But in another way, every change has been an improvement.

• What I love about the Brethren is that we are allowed to have silence, to wait on the Lord. There is no hurry to end the silence.

• In all other churches there is always something going on, and I felt like I was 'in the audience', not really making contact with the Lord. Here I feel we are with the Lord.

• It's wonderful that the women are not allowed to speak! It feels right. I trust the brothers to pray.

• It's lovely not to be the only one wearing something on my head. It's nice to be with the old brethren, and to have some young ones who are happy to be there … wonderful.

• After the morning communion we all have lunch together, and then we have our Gospel Meeting. I wish I could stay there listening all week.

• When I go home I feel like I've had a really good Lord's Day, and wish it wasn't so long till the next one.

Well, that's my story. Feel free to put in in the Mailbox if you wish.

Yours in thankfulness, 'Chloe'.

To: 'Chloe'
Thu, 31 Jan 2002

Dear 'Chloe',
Thanks for sharing your history on MB. The Lord obviously convicted you as to the rightness of head coverings, modest clothing, and several other matters you mention,

• using these things to lead you on, step by step. And you may not yet have reached a final resting place – like Noah's dove.

I had a similar experience as a young man. He convicted me as to the rightness of household baptism and the wrongness of celebrating religious holidays – while I was in an 'open' meeting –

• using them, though certainly not the end in themselves, to guide me in my search.

The Lord honours faithfulness to Him and to what is suitable to Him. May He help you to persevere in your desire to be for Him here.

I'm thankful that MB has been of some service to you and am always ready to be of any help or comfort. Let's keep in touch.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Pascal-Eric Chomel

To: Pascal-Eric Chomel
pe.chomelATlibertysurf.fr
Romans, France
Sun, 11 Jan 2004

Dear Pascal-Eric
Bienvenue! Welcome to 'My Brethren'! Sorry you had trouble emailing us but can't understand or explain. Perhaps you were on our old site which will soon be closed but, even so, the mail form there should have worked.

Your English is quite alright and far better than our French. We're glad you didn't hesitate to write to us. We don't have a French version of the site but hope you will return and explore. If you have any problems we will try to help.

• The 'Alta Vista' search engine has a translation function which you might want to try, but it often gives some strange results.

We have the Stow Hill / Kingston Bible Trust edition of JND's 'Collected Writings' and 'The Irrationalism of Infidelity' is indeed in volume 6 – it is almost the whole book – otherwise numbered as 'Apologetc 1'. If you still cannot find it please let us know.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Mon, 12 Jan 2004

Thank you for your answer. I will get the volume 6 from a brother. I thought I had this volume, but it was the 22nd which is subtitled 'Doctrinal 6'. He will send it to me in an email.

Brotherly in Christ, Pascal-Eric.

From: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Wed, 7 Jul 2004

Dear Gordon,
I noticed an answer you made about Sir Robert Anderson in 2001: "Membership in the Masons and other secret societies has always been condemned by those brethren commonly known as 'exclusive', based on 2 Corinthians 6:14 - 7:1".

• Could you give me the references of some assertions or statments from brethren – exclusive or open, but rather exclusive – about this subject? Did you really read this so clearly?

Thanks, Yours brotherly, Pascal-Eric.

To: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Sat, 10 Jul 2004

Dear Pascal-Eric,
Thanks for writing once again, it's good to hear more from you. Gordon has asked me to respond to your question this time. I hope you don't mind, but I wonder if you would clarify the last sentence of your email? I wasn't quite sure of the object of your question.

I do not have any 'open' literature to access on the subject, but I am confident the following statements I found in various ministry would be supported by every christian who knows about the rights of Christ over them. I have noted volume and page number for your reference.

• "… You will not value the Supper except as you are clear of all association and fellowship which is unsuitable to the death of Christ. I really would not care to break bread with a freemason even though he were a christian …" F. E. Raven 10: 339;

• "Freemasonry is an imitation of christian fellowship in its universality", F. E. Raven 13: 293;

• "A man said lately to a brother, 'Are you on the square?' That is freemasonry, which is the great imitation of christianity. 'It is a great fellowship and a true freemason will do anything to help another'. The brother replied, 'No, but I am in the circle'. God puts you in the circle", C. A. Coates 23: 253;

• "The foundation of your position here before men implies that sin has been judged. But then Christ owns you. You cannot belong to the world or society. You cannot be a Freemason or an Oddfellow. You cannot join any kind of a society in this world, because Christ's rights of redemption preclude all that", J .Taylor 7: 49;

• "Fellowship is that which can be outwardly observed … Dignity is intimated in the fellowship of God's Son. Freemasonry is a fellowship which has nothing in the origin of it to give it dignity. There cannot be anything more dignified than the fellowship of God's Son in our public relations; then there is the other side, the fellowship of His death, which cuts us off from the world", J. Taylor 12: 237-238;

• "Ques. Would the idea of the body have unity in mind?
  J.T. It would, but the body implies more than unity, although unity must be there first; but it is an organism, 'We … are one body in Christ', Romans 12: 5, suggests unity, but it is unity 'in Christ', not like freemasonry. The organism is in 1 Corinthians 12, where we are viewed as vitally linked with each other by the Spirit." J .Taylor 13: 347

It seems to me if membership with the Freemasons was viewed in light of the bond of Christ and the assembly, His rights over us, and the bond of the brethren with one another, that a christian's sense of belonging would come, as it should, from the fellowship of God's Son

• Of course, this takes into account the unequal yoke – fellowship of light with darkness, and so forth, as it means joining some other fellowship – which is a public element.

• But, then there is a private element: how much does one apprehend the dignity of Christ for himself? What about Christ's feelings of affection – and jealousy – toward His bride? How does that apprehension manifest in practical ways?

• Christians who are discontent with the outward smallness of the assembly and a walk "by faith and not by sight" are tempted to join in lots of different organizations and/or activities that true affection for the Lord Jesus would otherwise keep them from.

• I feel that all this has a much larger consequence, and practical application, than just involvement in secret societies.

You might also find this link useful to your study of this important subject: Doctrine: The Unequal Yoke.

I look forward to any further thoughts you may have. We certainly appreciate your visits and your correspondence.

Yours in the Lord Jesus.

From: Pascal-Eric Chomel
Sat, 10 Jul 2004

Dear brother,
Thanks for the answer with references. My question was actually on statements in brethren's books which could be so clear.

• Your references are good and the staements very clear.

• Would you have some statements in memory from the brethren in beginning, as JND, WK, CHM, with the words "freemason" or "secret societies"?

• I just know one citation from JND in "the discipline" in which he makes a comparison between the body of the freemasons and the assembly – about a decision and his acceptance everywhere. This comparison seemed to me quite strange, and I would like if you know anything else for a statement from these brethren.

• And I can give you some assurance that the subject is very clear for me: no association with anything which could be a yoke unequal, including freemasonry and other secret societies. Your arguments are interessant and spiritual.

Thanks. Yours in the Lord, Pascal-Eric.

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Vincenzo Cimmino

To: Vincenzo Cimmino
cimmino.vincenzoATenel.it
Castellammare di Stabia, Naples, Italy
Mon, 1 Jan 2001

Dear Vincenzo,
Welcome to MB. You are our first guest from Italy.

• I'm glad that my old friend Noel Brien – who stopped in Italy enroute to London – directed you to MB. I trust you will drop in again.

Unfortunately I don't have any material in Italian, and don't speak your language myself.

• Perhaps you will be able to help your local contacts with a summary of any articles of particular interest.

If you care to share any personal information or experience, I'm sure that other guests would be very interested.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Vincenzo Cimmino
Tue, 2 Jan 2001

Thanks for your prompt answer! I'll get in touch later on.

• At the moment I'm busy with my guest. We don't get many visitors and are quite isolated.

• Note that giannidigianniATlibero.it is my son's email,
  mine is: cimmino.vincenzoATenel.it.

• Will be pleased to share impressions.

Affectionate greetings in Him, Enzo.

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Billy, Alva and Stephen Clark

To: Billy, Alva and Stephen Clark
billalvasteveATmsn.com
Visalia, California, USA
Wed, 25 Oct 2000

Dear brethren,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I hope you find something of special interest and that you will return from time to time.

We sympathize with you in your relative isolation, and thank God for the few with whom we are able to meet to remember the Lord Jesus.

• We too are "continually on the look out for like minded Christians".

As to Mr. Darby, I value his labour and ministry and that of others – both contemporary with him and those who followed afterwards – and seek to bring it to the attention on those who are unaware of it.

• When I was converted at 16 in 1946 there was little of his ministry available – but his letters were especially helpful and gave me guidance in leaving an "open" meeting when I was 20 years old.

I'm not familiar with Los Angeles or the brethren meeting at "Windsor Road".

• In the 'Mailbox' you will find the exercises and concerns of many. Perhaps you too would be free to share your background in Scotland and your present commitments.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Alan Clarke

To: Alan Clarke
TullochLodgeATcs.com
Scotland
Sat, 22 Jan 2000

Dear Alan,
Unfortunately the photo you refer to did not come up on Dick's site. But with a little research I believe I've discovered the photo to which you refer.

• It appears to be the right half of a 1931 photo. You can see the whole photo and the identities of the brothers on MB under History: Hymn Book: Revisions to 1951.

Please let me know if you agree,

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

From: Alan Clarke
Sat, 22 Jan 2000

Dear Gordon,
Many thanks for replying so promptly. I have looked up your web site (what a mine of information – I didn't know of it) and checked the photo there.

• I will confirm the details with my contact who lent me the photo, but I am sure your information is correct.

• I would love to get a copy of the complete photo but I don't know how to!

Very many thanks, Alan Clarke.

To: Alan Clarke
Sat, 22 Jan 2000

Dear Alan,
You are welcome to copy the photo from MB, although the quality is rather poor.

Gordon.

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Peter Clarke

To: Peter Clarke
clarketrimATshaw.ca
Victoria, BC, Canada
Mon, 13 May 2002

Dear Peter,
I'm glad you "stumbled" on to 'My Brethren'. Perhaps you will return and especially check the valuable ministry of Mr. G. R. Cowell which is being added.

I have has some interesting correspondence with your sister Sarah. See Mailbox, following.

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Peter Clarke
Mon, 13 May 2002

Gordon,
The very sad situation is there appears to be many children leaving who have no evident link with the Lord at all.

• Indeed, I wonder if the gospel is even being preached anymore.

After 30 years, I have no anger or rancour over the brethren, only a feeling of sadness and wonderment on

• how and why a group of simple and evangelical people became what they did in such a short time.

Personally, I take no other ground than that of claiming no other status at all than being a believer in the Lord Jesus, with desire to be here as an ambassador for Christ – albeit a very poor one, but my motives are that, even if I fail to live up to it.

• I cannot find any scriptural basis for any special 'fellowship within a fellowship' and believe that setting up any such 'special' fellowship is purely sectarian.

• Nor do I believe the breaking of bread was ever meant to denote 'membership' within any such 'special' fellowship – making it so gives enormous power to leaders.

• I remember the Lord to show forth his death until He come, and to answer to His request to do so – not to show I am 'in fellowship' with any group.

• Indeed I find no scriptural authority for many so called 'rules' we took for granted and demand scriptural verification for any theory advanced by anyone, or any group.

I married Lois Trim, of LosAngeles, 30 years ago; we raised our own four, and adopted another four, which is proving to be quite a challenge.

• We began taking in children as foster parents, and have had some 50 children come, some for very short periods, and some are still with us – the adopted.

• We take the Lord's injuction to 'Shepherd my sheep and feed my lambs' literally and seriously, and

• I often wonder if brethren had had the similar view, we might not have gotten as far off the track as we did, instead of arguing over 'who was to be the greatest' or great doctrinal discussions of nebulous origin.

Your brother in the Lord, Peter M. Clarke.

To: Peter Clarke
Wed, 15 May 2002

Dear Peter,
Thank you for your full and interesting reply, sharing your experience and exercises.

• Yes 30 years is a lifetime ago; but we checked and confirmed our fading memories that

• Lois was in our home for a visit, August 3, 1967, according to our Guest Book. We also have a photo of her at that time. I wonder if she recalls being with us.

I share your concern as to the apparent lack of a living link with the Lord Jesus in many young ones who have left the system.

• Sadly, mere religion, which is what that system has become, has nothing to offer young or old.

• Yes, the Lord's directions to "feed my lambs … shepherd my sheep" were sorely neglected by many more concerned with personal prominence. The young ones, and indeed all, have greatly suffered.

We too have "no anger or rancour" which seems to marks so many and only corrodes, diverting from our proper occupation with Christ.

• We are glad to remember many good times and happy relationships no longer available to us.

As to "how and why a group of simple and evangelical people became what they did in such a short time" there are some suggestions, which you may find of interest, on MB in:

• History: Decline and Departure (1953-70)
• Guests: My Stand 1: What Went Wrong
• Guests: My Stand 1: The Decline of the 1950's.

The rise of sectarianism obscured and distorted the meaning of the Lord's Supper and our relationship with each other, and with other believers.

• You might like to compare your thoughts with mine in the following items on MB:

• Studies: The Lord's Supper and the Service of God
• Studies: Our Responsibility in the Present State of the Church.

Thanks again, and I hope you will find occasion to check out MB, particularly the ministry.

Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus to you and Lois. Gordon.

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Sarah Clarke

From: Sarah Clarke
sjclarkeATisland.net
Victoria, BC, Canada
Wed, 05 Jan 2000

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Rainbow:
Greetings in our Lord Jesus Christ. I saw your name on the brethren website, and that brought back memories. I doubt you will remember me.

• I'm Sarah Clarke and met you in the spring of 1971 when I was 19, and staying with the McCrones (Renton meeting).

• I was in Toronto to visit my sister Elizabeth Peebles (married to Bryan Peebles who at that time was still in the EB's.)

I remember being at your house for dinner one night and it was there I first heard any discussion or debate about the brethren needing to go back prior to 1970 and re-examine all Mr. Taylor Jr's ministry.

• It seemed intriguing at the time (almost heretical!). But at that time brethren had limited their judgemnt to the moral issue of Aberdeen and nothing else.

• Still to be fair, that's not surprising, as it is hard to skate backwards, especially after 10 years of total brain washing.

Well, that is all history now, as the group I break bread with in Victoria long since arrived at a judgment of it all.

• My family – parents and siblings (and Elizabeth including Bryan who long since left the EB's) left the Renton fellowship in 1982 when we're withdrawn from for attending a cousin's wedding which was held in an Open Brethren chapel.

• He was so pleased we came as we were his sole representatives from his side of the family as the rest were all in the Taylorites.

• Strange to be considered "unfit for Christian fellowship" (which is really the only criteria for righteous withdrawal) for such a reason, but so be it.

I would love to hear from you and hear how you are doing, or where you are worshipping (if that isn't an intrusive question).

• I read your statement of faith, in the website and was very touched by it.

• Sadly, there are still a lot of folks who have left who are awash with bitterness so good to read something positive.

• If only they could come to know the Lord (the unsaved ones) and for the saved ones, come to realize that however men's systems has failed, the Lord has never failed them yet.

As my mother says, if you turn your back on the Lord, He'll only shine on your back. We really have a wonderful Saviour, don't we?

• Something I admit I know very little about, but get enough glimpses of His glory to make me realize that "eye hath not seen, nor eye heard" the coming glories that await us when we see Him face to face.

Well, I'll close off, but have been meaning to write ever since I saw your names.

• My sister still keeps in touch with Pam Hill who has been a true friend to her all these years.

• And thanks again for the dinner invitation of '71! Please feel free to come to Victoria for a visit and I'd love to have you stay with me.

With love in our Lord Jesus Christ, Sarah Clarke.

To: Sarah Clarke
Fri, 07 Jan 2000

Dear Sarah,
Thank you for writing. We certainly do remember you well!

• There are two photos of you in our album – one in New York at the meetings with Robert Stott, and one here in Toronto.

• Our Guest Book indicates you were probably with us for dinner with Jack and Mary Mooney and the Stott's.

• Robert was a great help and encouragement to me in reviewing and refusing the errors of 1959-70.

We remember Elizabeth well too and all the sorrow she had. We understand she and Bryan are happily together.

• Please give them our love, and also to your mother who we don't think we ever had the pleasure of meeting.

No, we don't consider your question "intrusive". After many sad experiences we came to ourselves and began breaking bread alone about 20 years ago.

• For a time we enjoyed much having some older brethren who had left in the 1960's with us, but they are all now with Christ and missed by us.

• A few others meet with us in our home and we are all committed to the Lord's Supper and the service of God.

From what you say I'm not sure whether you have visited the "My Brethren" web site. There is more personal history and information on it.

• In any case I'm taking the liberty – hope you don't mind – of putting your name in the Guest Book and your encouraging letter in the "Mailbox".

• You will find some other interesting correspondence there.

You are so right about many marked by being "awash with bitterness", which only hurts themselves.

• "My Brethren" tries to show the "positive" side you mention, although there seems to be little attraction in it for most.

• Some seem more occupied in chewing on the gristle of the past, or revelling in a licence to do their own will,
  • than in finding their present joy and satisfaction in the Man who always did God's will and never failed Him, and never fails us.

• He is becoming more precious to us week by week.

Thank you for your invitation. It would be most pleasant to see you again and share our experiences of His love and care.

• It is doubtful, however, whether we will be doing much travelling as we are now both 70 and starting to feel it.

• In any case we hope we can keep in touch by e-mail from time to time.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

From: Sarah Clarke
Tue, 16 Jan 2001

Dear Gordon,
Just having a browse through your website tonight and very much enjoyed it.

• A year since I wrote, but appreciate very much the work you put into this. You've left me with a lot to think about.

• I admire your zeal in putting the Lord first above all else in your desire to serve Him.

With love in our Saviour to you and Betty, Sarah Clarke.

To: Sarah Clarke
Wed, 17 Jan 2001

Dear Sarah,
Thanks very much for visiting MB again and for your message. It is always good to hear from old friends.

• There are disappointments and discouragements of course but words of appreciation, such as yours, make it all worthwhile.

• Now in my 72nd year, I am concerned before the Lord as to the continuation of MB. Your prayers will be appreciated.

Betty joins in sending our love to you,

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Sarah Clarke
Mon, 22 Jan 2001

Dear Sarah,
Since receiving your recent encouraging message on MB, I noticed your request on Dick's site for stories from women for your proposed book "Women's Myths on Marriage and Singleness". Perhaps you will excuse some remarks from a man ;-) not for your book, of course.

Before I say anything that could be misunderstood, let me emphasize that I am not in any way criticizing you personally or your project.

• I commend your positive approach, so lacking among many of our background, and I have enjoyed our earlier correspondence, posted and not posted.

• Your request has stimulated this old brain of mine and I thought you might bear with some of my comments and recollections.

My comments are posted as Guests: My Stand 4: Wrong Attitude towards Women.

I trust that the above will not be seen as negative. It has just been written as things have come to mind and, hopefully, will be of some interest to you.

• You will no doubt be busily occupied in your project and, as I understand the demands on time with MB, I don't expect a detailed response.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Sarah Clarke
Thu, 12 Jan 2006

Dear Gordon and Betty,
My heartfelt apologies I haven't got back to you before re your comments on my book "Debunking Women's Myths on Marriage and Singleness". I don't often check the website. The book is presently on hold due to so much else going on in both my personal and work life.

• Yes, it's meant to be very positive as most of the myths I've unearthed are negative – on both sides. I was very briefly married in my 20's and it was not positive, but I am always very glad to see friends and family who are happily married. And I love being an aunt and having children over for visits.

• I think the main thing is acceptance for whatever the Lord's plan is for our lives. Back in my 20's – now 53 – I didn't even realize He had a plan for my life, that is, apart from my soul salvation, otherwise I would never have rushed into marriage.

• But isn't it wonderful how tenderly and lovingly the Lord not only heals past hurts – from either accidental or deliberate wrong doing – but also dail y renews His blessings for us?

I'd like to visit Ontario this fall with Elizabeth to research some family records, so would love to see you and Betty.

With love in our Saviour, Sarah.

To: Sarah Clarke
Fri, 13 Jan 2006

Dear Sarah,
No need to apologize – but so glad to hear from you any time.

Looking forward to seeing your book whenever it comes out! Let us know. There are certainly a lot of negative ideas around that need to be "debunked".

• Very few, if any, could look ahead as to how the Lord would work with us. We certainly had far different ideas as to how all would turn out. But now near the end of our journey we can well agree that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.

And it would certainly be good to see you after all these years and share our thoughts more fully than email allows. And to see Elizabeth again would be good. We enjoyed the visit from Bryan and Elizabeth very much.

Love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

From: Sarah Clarke
Mon, 28 May 2007

Dear Gordon and Betty.
Elizabeth and I enjoyed our visit with you , but good to be home again. And I thought Toronto was big in '71!

• My mother is glad to have me back (I believe I mentioned she's now living with me) and Bryan, to have Elizabeth home

• It was a joy to see so many friends and fascinating to visit the old family farm and see where my father grew up. I love history but as dad used to say it's where we're going (eternally) that counts.

We even had time to visit Pam Hill's grave the day we left. I didn't know her as Elizabeth did, but even so, she made a profound impression on me - a very Christ-like loving person.

• Standing at her grave, we reflected on what a joy it must have been for the Lord to welcome her home, even though her death is such a loss for us and especially Bruce and family.

I was also very touched by what you said, Betty, about your grandfather - how he loved to gather his grandchildren around him and share the gospel with them.

• What a blessing to have Godly parents and grandparents who showed us the love of Christ long before we could comprehend the gospel.(Something even the legalism of the Exclusive Brethren system can't take away from us.)

One of my most precious childhood memories was hearing my parents singing hymns after we children were in bed. My mother would play the piano and dad would accompany her on his violin, oblivious to the wonderful memory they were creating.

• My heart goes out to those who have no idea of the joy of a personal relationship with the Lord. s Elizabeth says, her greatest blessing is knowing their children are saved.

Again, good to see you both. I hit the ground running at work - writing tasks, speeches on fire safety but my apologies I didn't get in touch sooner.

With love in our Saviour, Sarah Clarke.

From: Sarah Clarke
Fri, 6 Dec 2008

Dear Gordon and Betty,
Please convey my love to Rosemary and Flora, and thanks so much Betty for delivering the catds earlier this year.

Reading your web site, I see it is the 10th anniversary this past November -- so my most grateful thanks for all the effort you undertook to put it together. I'm sure, like me. it has been a blessing to many.

With love in our Saviour, Sarah Clarke.

To: Sarah Clarke
Fri, 19 Dec 2008

Dear Sarah,
Thanks for your note and all the family news, your kind remarks re 'My Brethren' and especially the photo of the Clarke ladies!

Betty has passed on your greetings to Flora and Rosemary. You are probably unaware that Rosemary was married in September to Eric Rumsby, a widowed resident here at Bethany Manor and a fine brother. They are well suited and very happy together.

Otherwise things are quiet here and we are thankful for the few contacts we have from time to time.

If you ever venture this way again you will be very welcome! Please give our love to Elizabeth and Bryan.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

From: Sarah Clarke
Sat, 20 Dec 2008

Dear Gordon,
Perhaps a "thanks" for a thank you seems silly but I did want to respond to your gracious note. Not everyone cares for Christmas cards so I didn't wish to offend you and I'm glad I didn't .

• Even though all the hype seems a sham (I understand the Lord was not even born this time of year and also we are to remember His death, not his birth) I still enjoy the season. Primarily because it provides me the opportunity to focus on getting in touch with dear ones such as yourselves whom I have thought of and prayed for during the year, but haven't taken the time to write to.

Elizabeth and I look back with pleasure on our visit with you and Betty and also the opportunity to meet Flora and Rosemary. As Elizabeth says, Flora has such a lovely Christ-like spirit, which is wonderful after all the sorrow she has had. To my mind, that is a greater witness to the power of God than someone whose life has been a bed of roses (or pretends it has).

I really appreciate your work in setting up the website. Wthout it, I never would have had the opportunity to get in touch with you and Betty again which has been a real blessing both to myself, and I am sure, many others. (I know Dan and Kerstin Soukoreff and Susan Soukoreff think very highly of the web site.)

That is surprising news about Rosemary but come to think of it, I have heard of other people getting married in retirement homes. I find life full enough as it is! But everyone is different which is the beauty of the body of Christ.

I'm glad you liked my letter; I didn't want to write a "brag" letter as they are so artificial, but rather just focus on the blessings. I don't think anyone's life is immune from sorrow and disappointment . But I remember a preacher who wisely pointed out we can focus on either our sorrows or the Lord Himself.

• Our times are truly in His hands, aren't they? And hopefully, His coming is very near. But as my father used to say, His coming is only a life time away for every believer.

In closing, thanks for the kind invitation to visit you . I don't know if I ever will be in Ontario again, but should that happen, I would love to see you both as there is nothing like the fellowship of fellow believers, especially those with whom we share so much history - as well as a wonderful future.

With love in our Saviour to you and Betty. Sarah Clarke.

To:: Sarah Clarke
Thu, 25 Dec 2008

Dear Sarah,
A 'thank you" wasn't necessary, but we're glad to hear from you -- at any time of year.

• No, the card didn't offend though I haven't been involved in celebrations since I was 17 -- a long time ago! We are spending a quiet day in our rooms and hope to have a visit from some friends this afternoon.

Please write whenever you are "moved" to do so.We enjoy the contact very much.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

From: Sarah Clarke
Thu, Apr 15 2010

Dear Gordon, I trust all is well with you and Betty. I was wondering if you know where I can obtain a copy of Charles Coates' commentary on the Book of Revelation. My copy (ancient) is literally falling apart.

• I probably could order one from England but wonderng if it is published in the US or Canada. The last time I was in England I ordered a Bible but no big trips in the offing … If you have any suggestions, I'd appreciate it as I enjoy Mr. Coates' insights …

With love in our Saviour to you and Betty,, Sarah Clarke.

To: Sarah Clarke
Thu Apr 15, 2010

Dear Sarah,
Good to hear from you again …

You might be able to get CAC's Revelation from Daniel Soukoreff (Spiritual Food Publishers) or fairly certain from Dover Bible Fund (USA). See both on 'Bible and Books' on 'Site News'.

• You might want to consider KBT's CD of Ministry, if you don't mind reading from the screen.

My first introduction to Bible study, at 16 years of age, was to Revelation in a young men's group at the home of a fine older brother in an 'open' meeting. I didn't know then it was thought to be difficult! …

Betty joins in love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Kevin Connelly

Dear Kevin,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. We would be interested in knowing your particular interest and, if you are free to share, some details of your background.

In the Lord, Gordon.

Page Top

Carl Coombs

To: Carl Coombs
coombsATyesic.com
Toronto, Canada
Mon, 01 Feb 1999

Hi Carl,
Thanks for dropping in and for the comments.

See you soon. Gordon.

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Van Costen

To: Van Costen
jecostenATcox.net
Chesapeake, VA, USA
Mon, 24 Nov 2003

Dear Van,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Glad you enjoyed the visit. Do come again and feel free to share your background and exercise.

In our Lord, Gordon.

From: Van Costen
Tue, 21 Dec 2004

Hello Brother Gordon,
I note that in your correspondence with Brian Cowell there is mention of a CD Rom of GRC's audio ministry. I would love to get hold of a copy of this CD Rom. How may I get a copy?

Thank you very much. I appreciate your help.

In our Lord Jesus, Van Costen.

To: Van Costen
Fri, 24 Dec 2004

Dear Van,
Our earlier hope of help from a brother in the UK to make a CD didn't work out. However your interest prompts us to try again. We'll let you know if we are successful. There is something special about hearing a brother's voice beyond mere reading. Thanks for the nudge.

In the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

Dear Brother,
If I can have your mailing address please, I will send to you in several weeks a CD ROM with an audio reading with JTSr in 1949 in Westfield and also an address by Percy Lyon in 1947 in Cranford, NJ.

• A friend of mine has the capability of changing tapes into CDs so he is doing this for me. He will not be completed for 2 weeks or so.

I pray that this note finds you well and blessed by the Lord's mercies. Thank you for your service in making "My Brethren" available. By the way, the complete works of JND are now on-line. The web address is: http://www.stempublishing.com/

Love to you and your wife!

Affectionately in the Lord, Van Costen.

Dear Van,
Thanks very much for all the information, especially as to JND's ministry.

The CD would be very welcome.

It would be good to have a telephone chat some time. If you agree I can call you at your convenience, if you send you phone number.

We are increasingly feeling the frailties of age but proving His great mercies.

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

Beloved Brother,
I am enclosing a copy of the 2 items, on 1 disc, which I promised to you. The CD is labelled for your convenience.

• These are MP3 files and are playable in Windows Media Player. There is a way to post them on your web site but I am not sure how to do that.

I thank God for your web site. It is very helpful and I have directed many brethren to it.

I hope that you are well. I am thankful to know you dear brother.

Most Affectionately in the Lord Jesus, Van Costen.

Dear Van,
Thanks very much for the valuable CD which plays fine. Even at highest volume I have difficulty hearing it, but that may be because of my own hearing disability. I'll keep looking for a solution.

We have put our condo apartment up for sale and hope to move to a nearby Christian retirement home in early April.

I would still like to have a phone chat if you will send your number and convenient times.

Thanks again. Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Beloved Brother,

I am sending you some photos that may be useful on your website. Phil Hamilton and Mina Taylor [nephew and niece respectively of, J. Taylor] gave most of these to me although some came to me from Belfast.

I hope that you are well and blessed of the Lord! I pray for you often.

Most warmly in the Lord, Van Costen.

From: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Beloved Brother,
I have some very interesting scans of pages from JTSr's personal files listing meetings in the USA and Canada in 1879, complete with names and addresses of the rooms and brothers to contact. The files are very large so I will wait to send these to you after you have had a chance to download and save the photos I have just sent.

The Lord bless you and your dear wife. I hope that your move went smoothly to your new residence!

Warmest love in the Lord Jesus, Van Costen.

To: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Dear Van,
Thanks for all the photos. I already had some but several others will certainly be useful.

What a coincidence! I am just ready to post that 1879 list on MB. I have had it for many years. If you have any other items of interest please let me know.

Our move went fairly well and we are still settling in.

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Dear Brother,
Can you tell me any history of the 1879 list? Uncle Phil (Hamilton) told me that JTSr gave him his copy probably in the '30s. How long have you had yours?

I am so glad that you are settling in.

There is an amazing photo of CAC on your site that I have never seen! Mr. Coates looks to be very old and ill. From where did this photo come? I love CAC's ministry and have been greatly helped through the years by it. I believe the Teignmouth meeting room is still open, or at least it was, 15 years ago.

I do have other things of interest: a handwritten copy of JND's will, a handwritten letter from JND, a handwritten letter from FER and other things. These are buried deep in my files and will take some time to locate.

With much love in the Lord, Van.

To: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Dear Van,
My 1879 copy came from a brother here in Toronto in the mid 1960's. Like yourself I have always been interested in collecting historical documents but do not know where or how the brother obtained it.

Again, unfortunately I don't recall the source of that photo of CAC. He certainly does look old and ill.

You say: "I do have other things of interest: a handwritten copy of JND's will, a handwritten letter from JND, a handwritten letter from FER and other things. These are buried deep in my files and will take some time to locate." When you are able I would be very interested to see those items.

• I did have a copy of "a handwritten letter from FER" dated Feb. 8, 1896, which is in the 'His Ministry' section of his Biography. Is this the same one you have?

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Beloved Brother,
I was looking at your site again today and stumbled on the discussion that there was a difference at the end of CAC's life of his view of the Lord's sonship supported by comments from FA Hughes and GA Lucas.

• I have heard all of the stories about CAC changing his mind at the end of his life regarding what he had taught about the Lord's sonship. I do not believe it!!!

• There are several quotations in his very late writings (1942) [CAC died in 1945] that tell me this is probably untrue. If anything his statements are stronger in 1942 then they were earlier. They are:

Van's whole email, including the 2 quotations from CAC not shown here, is on My Stand 1: Sonship of Christ 2.

I have pondered why there would be this suggestion that CAC changed his mind. I think it may be that those that say this see value in CAC's ministry and want to prove that CAC really never believed what he taught, therefore freeing his ministry to be read. There is no doubt in my mind that CAC never changed his mind.

• Of course, this will immediately open up the charge that the ministry that has been printed by KBT in later years has been tampered with by the Bible Trust.

• This is not true either as Mr. Frank Frost [a KBT trustee] showed me several photocopies of some of the then lately discovered CAC notes in the early 80s and they were not tampered with.

• I was just interested in reading the discussion of this issue on the website and thought I would comment.

Most affectionately in the Lord, Van.

To: Van Costen
Thu, 26 May 2005

Dear Van,

Thanks for your comments and the extracts which are now posted in My Stand.

We of course do no believe CAC would change his mind and that the suggestion was only made to support the wrong views of others.

In Him, Gordon.

From: Van Costen
Tue, 31 May 2005

Dear Brother,
There is a picture that exists of JND as a very old man in front of a meeting room, in London I believe. He has a big white beard and is leaning on a cane.

• I believe that someone in Belfast or Dublin – maybe old Mr. Watson, with the Lord now I am sure – has it.

• I will try to find out some more information for you. It would make a valuable addition to your website I believe. Very unique picture!

Warmest, Van.

From: Van Costen
Tue, 31 May 2005

Beloved Brother,
There has been an attempt to also promote the view that there was hidden conflict and bad feelings between CAC and JTSr.

• I made serious inquiries about this very subject in 1976-1980 and Aunt Mina (Taylor) and Uncle Phil (Hamilton) both assured me that they never heard JT make one bad remark about CAC and they, for all intents and purposes, lived with him.

• CAC, on the other hand, makes some very interesting comments in his ministry regarding JT and I thought it might be helpful to put these rumors to rest with documentation. CAC said:

The complete letter is in Guests: My Stand 1: Sonship of Christ 2

Most affectionately in the Lord, Van Costen.

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Brian Cowell

To: Brian Cowell
CowellSCIATaol.net
Subject: Biographical Sketch of Mr. G. R. Cowell
Wed, 16 Dec 1998

Dear Brian,
I am interested in expanding a brief biographical sketch of your father – and mother – for my web site "My Brethren", and hope that you will be free to share some personal information with me.

• My purpose in this – along with other items – is to preserve such information for the benefit of younger brethren.

I did not know your parents personally but have a fairly good xerox of a photo which was taken, I believe, when they were here in Toronto in October 1957.

• I also believe they were related to Mr. and Mrs. Reg and Hilda Saunders.

• We were in touch with them for some time before the Lord took Mr. Saunders.

• Subsequently Mrs. Saunders broke bread with a few in our home until she went to England where she remained until taken by the Lord.

In the early 1970's I was in contact with Philip Haddad and have all of your father's ministry which he published, and value it highly.

• I have compiled "Ministry by G. R. Cowell and others – A Catalogue" with subjects, scriptures, dates, places. If you would like a copy as a memento, I would be glad to send you one.

I have seen a good deal of the letters etc. circulated in the early 1960's and have no doubt that your father was very badly mistreated, along with Mr. E. J. Hemmings and others.

• A biographical sketch cannot of course undo that – but it would be a contribution to helping others to understand the servant and his ministry – and would have an honoured place on the "My Brethren" web site.

I do hope that you will respond favourably.

• The information I would like for your father – and mother whose fine hymns we often use – is dates and places of births and deaths – and marriage, family and Christian background i.e., were they brought up among the brethren or in some other connection, employment, etc.

• Any other info would be appreciated – also as to you and Alan and your families. If there are any notes, letters, etc. that would be useful and you would be free to share, I would copy them and return to you.

• I understand my request may involve time and work and will appreciate whatever you may do. Perhaps you might just confirm your thoughts so that I will know what to expect.

Affectionately in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Brian Cowell
Subject: Biographical details of Mr. and Mrs. G. R. Cowell
Sat, 26 Dec 1998

Dear Gordon,
Herewith all the details you require as far as I can remember. [See Biography: G. R. Cowell.]

I have written a document criticizing a book entitled "God, Chance and Necessity" by Keith Ward, Prof. of Theology at Oxford University.

• I have done it for a friend who is both a committed Christian and a committed Theistic Evolutionist. He is one of our trustees of our Mongolian charity which supports a translation team in Mongolia. I can tell you more about this if you are interested. I will send this critique to Keith Ward in due course.

The reason why I am sending it to you is that it might be a good summary of my position re evolution which could be of use to you.

• I have not actually finished the critique but I have fininshed the science section. I will complete it in due course and send it to Keith Ward and other theistic evolutionists I know, including Ichthus Fellowship in London which sadly embraces evolution completely.

Yours in the Lord Jesus, Brian

To: Brian Cowell
Tue, 12 Jan 1999

Dear Brian,
Thank you for the science section of your proposed book on evolution which I read with great interest.

• It is well documented and should provide a real challenge to the theistic evolutionists you have in mind.

• Of course, not having any expertise in your field I cannot offer any detailed comments.

The objectives of "My Brethren" are in a quite different area, but I would be interested to know how your work progesses and when it is completed.

• If your final work includes a brief chapter synopsis it might be of interest and helpful to other guests and suitable for a contribution page, which is not part of the site at present.

I know you will not like to speak of yourself but in view of level of your paper and the "Dr." on your address label I, personally, would be interested to learn your academic attainments. I hope you don't mind.

Laurie Twinam writes, "Brian mentioned to me a Mervyn Morgan of Ross-on-Wye who has done some research on GRC and his connection with JTJr;

• "so I contacted him and found that that this project of his is as yet incomplete as he suffered a severe accident three years ago.

• "Mervyn Morgan has promised to contact me when he is finished this project, and of course I will pass on what he tells me (I have already mentioned you to him)."

Does MM have an e-mail address? I would like to find out the scope of his project, and to encourage him in proceeding with it when his health permits.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Brian Cowell
Tue, 1 Oct 2002

Dear Brian,
I was glad to hear some news of you via —, although I feel deeply with you as to your wife's condition and your own recent health problems.

In case you haven't checked 'My Brethren' lately, we are making good progress on your father's ministry – almost half completed. Besides posting on MB, all our work is forwarded to — for use on a CD he is assembling.

The audio CD of some GRC's ministry you mentioned to — sounds very interesting. He may have asked you already, but I think there are many who would value a copy, if you were agreeable. I hope I'm not going to far in suggesting that —, who has the expertise, might be able to help in this.

I should have emailed you earlier to thank you for the good photo of your father which came via —. It is a fine addition to Biograpy: G. R. Cowell and his ministry on MB.

• I don't want to burden you but if you have any letters or papers of your father that would be of historical interest, or any unpublished poetry of your mother, that would be suitable for MB, they would be appreciated.

We think of you and your wife in our prayers.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Brian Cowell
Sun, 6 Oct 2002

Dear Gordon,
One problem with the CD of my father's ministry is that my computer jumps tracks and some I can't access it all. Whether that is the fault of the CD or my CD reader I don't quite know.

• But — has just sent me 10 cassette tapes of my father's ministry. These are very clear and I would recommend that you write to him. Otherwise you could certainly borrow and copy the disc. Perhaps your machine will do a bit better than mine.

I do not seem to have any correspondence of my father, and the only poems of mother are in her booklet 'Scattered Seed' of which I have very few copies.

Yours in Christ, Brian.

To: Brian Cowell
Thu, 10 Oct 2002

Dear Brian,
— would be happy to copy the CD and your mother's poems if you would loan them to him for return to you when completed. This would be easier for you than sending them to me.

I hope I am right in assuming that the tapes from — are not the same as ministry on your CD. Thanks for his address. I'm considering writing to him to see if he could supply me with a set of tapes. I am able to duplicate tapes, so that they could be available for brethren on this continent who would be interested.

Thanks for all your help.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Brian Cowell
Sun, 13 Oct 2002

Dear Gordon,
I think the tapes were all from the CD, but, as I said before, the CD does not play well on my instrument. I don't know if the fault lies in the CD or my computer.

• My brother-in-law, Ron Brown, says that — got his tapes from the CD. Ron actually got a firm to make the CD from my original tape and this cost him £—, so it seems a pity it is not, or may not be perfect.

• However I am satisfied with the tapes. They are clear, yet not quite as clear as the CD. I'll send the CD to — in due course and a copy of my mother's poems.

Yours in Christ, Brian.

To: Brian Cowell
Thu, 3 Apr 2003

Dear Brian,
I was very interested to see your entry on Dick Wymans's web site. It reminded me that I should have written to you again.

• Perhaps you have noticed that we now have well over half of your father's ministry on 'My Brethren'.

• Besides it's value on MB, we have gained immensely from going over it.

Perhaps you could help as to Hubert Calvey. We have little information as to him personally and wonder if you know any details that you could share with us.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Brian Cowell
Thu, 3 Apr Mon 2003

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for e-mail. Regarding Calvey, I think he must now be with the Lord. He was quite elderly when I was in my 30s and I am now 76.

• I do not have his 'Confrontation' although I did read it. It is valuable in pointing out the errors of JTJr, but really, any discerning Christian would surely detect these gross errors and extremes!

• Although well written, I felt the book hardly needed to have been written.

I am so glad you enjoy my Father's ministry. I enjoy the straightforward expository addresses and readings, but dear Dad was exclusive to the very end of his life.

I now feel more towards the Open Brethren position. "Let a man judge himself..." We are not to be judges unless flagrant and obvious sin in evident and is persisted in.

• Then I don't think anyone could share the Lord's Table with such a man unless he repented.

• Normally it is wrong to refuse to break bread with any other true Spirit-fillled believer of whatever denomination provided the denomination holds the basics of the Gospel.

• For example, I have no hesitation about going to the Keswick Convention where many sound denominations are represented, and joining in the Breaking of Bread held during the Conference as is often done to unify the brethren.

• Incidently I have always enjoyed the Keswick Convention. The ministry is first class – challenging, encouraging and stimulating.
  • I hope you won't write me off as a heretic!

• But I have thought a lot about conditions of fellowship and gathering to remember the Lord.

• I would still be very hesitant about certain ex-ex groups who would be unhappy about my joining in a Breaking of Bread at the Keswick Convention, and would probably ask me to repent and withdraw from me it I could not see any wrong in it.

• I really don't want anything more to do with this kind of exclusivism.

• We must, of course exclude evil from our lives by living and walking in the Spirit, but how many of us can really claim we have excluded all evil at all times and need no further repentance. I could not make such a claim.

• We all fail, even the most godly, and we constantly need the cleansing blood of Jesus.

• This does not excuse failure, but it give the assurance of forgveness.

Love in our Lord Jesus, Brian.

To: Brian Cowell
Mon, 7 Apr 2003

Dear Brian,
Your comments on Mr. Calvey's 'Confrontation' are noted.

• Whatever his reasons for writing, and whatever the need then or later, it is now a rare and valuable historical record, and worth preserving.

• We don't intend to post it on MB, except for some extracts of doctrinal value.

I suspect that there was a very good reason that your father "was exclusive to the very end of his life".

• You may have seen or be familiar with the following but it is worh repeating from the 'Background' section of his 'Biography' on 'My Brethren':

Around 1915, he came into fellowship with the brethren at Debdon Green, near Thaxted, Essex.

Here is his own account:
• "… you cannot make known the mystery simply by talking about it: right words come in and are needed, but to make known the mystery you must show it.

  "I saw it working first in a farm labourer's cottage;
  and when I saw it working I was delivered from all
  the religious associations of men which we call Christendom.

  "I saw the mystery working among the poor of the flock, and that is how it was made known to me for I did not know the doctrine of it then.

  "I came into the company of simple folk who loved one another. They had love among themselves.

  "Masters and servants were there according to the truth of the body, without respect of persons, and riches were flowing in from the ascended Head.

  "They had not human learning, but proved that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge were available in the mystery, because all are in Christ, the Head of the body, the assembly.

  "The mystery in that sense, was made known in that little company, and it freed me once and for all from the whole dead weight of Christendom as built up by man".

July 15, 1961, 'Jesus in Control', Vol. 8: 84

While my course was certainly not as even as your father's – as also being 1st generation 'brethren' – I can appreciate his continuance in his commitment.

• Those who have come from 'outside', as we used to speak, have done it at great personal cost,
  • like the chiliarch who said to Paul, "I, for a great sum, bought this citizenship", Acts 22: 28.

• Having done so they are governed by that word,
  • "Buy the truth, and sell it not", Proverbs 23: 23

It is a great privilege to have been brought up in a home where the truths that have come to light in – what I at least believe to he – the recovery are known and practised,

• Sadly, it seems that many who have had this advantage have no personal conviction regarding the situation in christendom, and have only thought of the 'meeting' as being their 'church'.

No, Brian, I certainly do not think of you as a "heretic" but as one of my brethren.

• However I don't share your taste for the 'open' position or for Keswick-type inter-denominationalism.
  • You may have noticed the following but, if not, you will find my thoughts fairly well set out:

• As to the first, see My Stand 2: Open 1 and 2.

• It doesn't specifically refer to inter-denominationalism, but see Studies: Our Responsibility in thr Present State of the Church.

It is sorrowful indeed that many who once walked happily together are now separated and comiiteed, in many instances, to widely differing views and positions.

• If this grieves us, how must it affect the heart of our Lord Jesus

#421 11.10.11.10. Miss A. Ross

WHAT will it be when all life's toil is finished,
And we have entered our eternal rest;
When past for ever is the night of weeping,
And with Thee, Lord, we are for ever blest!

What will it be when all the strife is over,
And all Thy saints, now scattered far and wide,
Shall be without one shade of variation,
All like Thee, Lord, united by Thy side!

What will it be when sorrow's day is ended,
And pain and grief for ever passed away;
When with Thee, Lord, we share the bright forever,
In perfect peace throughout the perfect day!

What will it be? - In blest anticipation
E'en now our hearts outpour in praise to Thee;
But when we see Thee face to face in glory,
Then purer, sweeter, shall our praises be.

I trust I have not offended, Brian, but have simply spoken plainly as to my convictions, as you yourself have done.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Brian Cowell
Wed, 23 Apr 2003

Dear Brian,
In view of our recent correspondence, I thought you would be interested in the following.

• It has just come to hand – from the files of Andrew Robertson – and I have added it to your father's biography under 'His Trials and Stand'.

Extract from a Letter dated 9th November 1961

… I ought also to make clear that I cannot accept the doctrine that those walking together in separation are at liberty to attend religious services held by sects around us.

• I separated from all these in 1915, having had experience of them.

• I could not break bread with anyone who claims this liberty and practises it.

• The fact that the E.B.'s, alas, [have] become, as a body, a pharisaical and corrupt sect, and that we have had to separate from them,
  • does not give us liberty to link on with any other sect.

• I would not go back to the meetings of an older sect any more than I would go back to meetings of the E.B.'s, in order to hear an eloquent preacher or other cause.

• It is the same thing in principle, whether E.B.'s, Baptists or R.C.'s, although no doubt there are degrees of evil.

I love and value believers in the sects and would do all I could for them.

• "Hereby we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments", 1 John 5: 2.

G. R. Cowell

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

Page Top

Jonathan Crosby

To: Jonathan Crosby
scrosbyAThome.com
Greenville, SC, USA
Tue, 6 Mar 2001

Dear Jonathan,
It isn't clear to me – since there is no mention of 'My Brethren' – whether your message addressed to "Dear Seeker of Truth" is a result of your visit,

• or whether it is a general message which you desire to share with others. It seems to be the latter.

The complete reply is posted on Guests: My Stand 3: Sonship and Incarnation.

I am glad to have heard from you and trust you will review the above thoughts in the brotherly spirit in which they are shared.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Jonathan Crosby
Thu, 15 Mar 2001

Dear Jonathan,
Thanks for your prompt reply. I have been delayed with a long case of the flu.

The complete reply is appended to Guests: My Stand 3: Sonship and Incarnation.

I will be glad to hear from you from time to time, and thanks again for writing.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

Page Top

Edwin Cross – With Christ, c. November 2009

To: Edwin Cross
ecross7023ATaol.com
London, England
Sat, 18 Jan, 2003

Dear Edwin,
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren'. I'll post a Bulletin on Site News with your inquiry as well as putting your message in the Guest Book.

• I've already asked Bernt Lindberg to contact you. I believe he has information on William Reid.

• Re E. Dennett, check Guests: My Answer 1 for a little information you may not have.

• You may be familiar with MB's 'Biograpthy: CHM, recently updated. You are welcome to make use of the information there.
  • If you do, I trust you will not suppress CHM's letters regarding FER, although I realize this may not be welcome information to all.

I would be interested to hear how your research progresses.

In our Lord, Gordon.

From: Edwin Cross
Sat, 18 Jan 2003

Dear brother Gordon,
Thanks for your message. I do hope we get some info re E. Dennett. Since he died in 1914 I would have thought someone in the London meetings would have a memory of his ministry.

• He died in Croydon. I have no obituary notice of him in any brethren's magazine, nor has anyone the least recollection of him or his daughter.

• I have asked a 'Renton' brother – George Crowhurst aged 93 – but have drawn a blank.

• I can't help feeling that there must be someone, who knew him or whose recently deceased family knew him and passed on some anecdotes – I hope we have some success with your website.

Regarding William Reid – I have been in touch with Bernt Lindberg – we have worked on WR quite a bit. Bernt has had a great deal of info from this end. But probably there is still something fresh to uncover through 'folk-memory' even if he was taken in 1881.

Re CHM – Thanks for your kind offer to use the info on your site.

• I would not suppress any facts – that would not be scientific history.

• I have already pages on CHM and have puzzled over the FER/CHM matter. For a Kelly brother it is a trifle enigmatic and more enigmatic for a Lowe brother
  • but it is probable that the brethren acted too hastily in 1890 and with greater patience could either have left the issue until the questions were clear for leading men like CHM –

• but by 1893 he was, as letters in my possession show, substantially weakened in health and could not take up controversy as younger men were doing.

• But he was without doubt 'an eloquent man, and mighty in the Scriptures', Acts 18:24.

In my researches, which I hope to have published, I have no intention to attack or intrude upon the dignity of the position other brethren take – and I do ask that this be reciprocated – I believe, beyond doubt, that it will be in your case.

Would you be so kind as to note on your website that Chapter Two has changed address?

Chapter Two Trust – Head Office and Warehouse
Fountain House, Conduit Mews, Woolwich,

Chapter Two – Christian Bookshop
199 Plumstead Common Road, Plumstead Common,

E-mail: chapter2ukATaol.com
website: www.chaptertwo.org.uk
Registered Charity No 1053047.

With Christian greetings, Edwin N. Cross.

From: Edwin Cross
Sat, 18 Jan 2003

Edward Dennett has a half page obit in 'Chief Men Among the Brethren'. He deserves more.

• I am sure that E. Dennett – born 1831 died 1914 in his 83rd year – stayed with Mr. Taylor until his home call,
  • in fact he was present at the marriage meeting in Barnet, Herts., in 1913 of JT to Miss Brown and took part in the meeting. I have the text of that occasion.

• The next year ED was called home and was buried in Queens Road Cemetery, Croydon, not far from the Baptist minister J. C. Philpot who wrote a defence of the teaching of Christ's eternal sonship.

• His wife was Ellen Dennett, who was his senior by two years. They had one daughter called Ellen M., her details are recorded in the 1881 census, where she is recorded as a scholar.

• The family were then living at 7 Vine Villa, Sevenoaks, Kent. Their modest household had one 34 year old domestic servant called Emma Hayter, a Londoner from Clapham.

• This Census recorded Dennett's occupation as preacher and writer of spiritual subjects which must have been the description he verbally gave to the returning officer.

During 1881 J. N. Darby (1800-1882) paid a visit [13 May] to the Kent village of Sevenoaks for a rest from his work.

• It is not recorded where he stayed, but the Dennett's home may have been one of the places he would have visited while there.

• The matter with Dr. Edward Cronin (1802-1882) was a continuing source of concern to JND and he mentions this in an hitherto unpublished letter of this date.

I still have not had anybody from Croydon or who knew any old brother or sister in that locality pass on any reminiscences re Dennett and his surviving, spinster daughter.

• I still have the following outstanding questions:
  • Any character references? Any obituary? Funeral details? Who was present? What hymns or scriptures? What sermon?

George Cutting went with London, Arthur Cutting with Glanton – both were evangelists.

• I believed Geo.C. was brought to the Lord by CHM. I deduce this from an unpublished letter I have.
  • An extract reads:
    In a letter to my dear son in the faith, George Cutting, I remarked that we must never forget that the speaker is but a voice; and the writer, but a pen. Our oral ministry must prove to be but a sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal; and our writing, so much waste paper, if they be not clothed with the power of the spirit. The abiding sense of this would keep us self-emptied and dependent the true secret of spiritual power. Ah! to know more of this! I ardently long for it, both for myself and all the Lord's beloved servants.

One final point I am also researching the writer Arthur Pridham of Weston-super-Mare, circa 1815 1879, erstwhile tutor to Dr. A. T. Schofield.

• This is not the same person referred to in 'Glory to Glory' that JBS addressed in a letter in his closing days. Can anyone help through your webpage?

Many thanks, Edwin N. Cross.

To: Edwin Cross
Fri, 31 Jan 2003

Dear Edwin,
Your emails of January 18 and 30 and the information are much appreciated.

• 'Guests: Site News: Bulletins' now includes all those on whom you are seeking information: ED, WR, CHM, EC and AP. I'd be interested to hear if any MB guests contact you.

• The changes in address of Chapter Two have been noted on 'Guests: Site News: Bibles and Books'. The caveat re some books being critical of FER was only added lest MB's own position be misunderstood by some guests.

Having had extensive personal contacts years ago with brethren you refer to as 'Kelly' and 'Lowe' – as well as being familiar with their writings – I can understand "the FER/CHM matter" seeming "enigmatic".

• Yes, doubtless "brethren acted too hastily in 1890". In such matters there has often been the early adoption of inflexible positions and, sometimes, unbrotherly attitudes which hindered any meaningful communication.

• Yes, CHM was later weakened in body but his mind appeared to remain clear and his judgment unchanged in his letters from 1890 to 1896.

I do appreciate that you say "I have no intention to attack or intrude upon the dignity of the position other brethren take".

• While it is impossible to deal with our history without taking a clear stand, I believe that the historical documents on MB are, in the main, written in a brotherly spirit.

• Indeed, though there are unresolved issues we must always hold our brethren in love. Your own brotherly spirit is refreshing.

• Sad to say there are others who manifest a bitter spirit. See Guests: My Stand 1: The Sonship of Christ for only one of several instances.

The additional information you share as to ED, Geo.C. and AC is most interesting. I hope to be able to use some of it in brief biographical sketches of ED and GC in the future. Of course, you will be noted as the source.

• Of special interest to me is your note that ED "was present at the marriage meeting in Barnet, Herts., in 1913 of JT to Miss Brown and took part in the meeting. I have the text of that occasion".

• If you would be good enough to furnish me with a copy – perhaps scanned – it would be appreciated not only by me but by many of MB's guests. If needed, I could possibly make arrangements with some on on your side to scan it.

• In that connection I'm attaching a jpg of "James and Georgina Taylor, c. 1950" which may be of interest to you.

You mention Croydon and Sevenoaks regarding ED. I have contacts in both places who might be able to come up with some details. I will let you know if any facts come to light.

• I can't locate a reference to JND being in Sevenoaks in 1881 in his Letters. Would you supply the page reference, or is it from the unpublished letter you mention?

Thanks again for all the information. I trust that more becomes available to aid in your own work which should be of great value.

• I'll be interested to hear of your progress and of any other matters of mutual interest at any time.

In our Lord, Gordon.

From: Edwin Cross
Fri, 31 Jan 2003

Dear Gordon,
I am just off to the Cairo Bookfair and then Israel and for ministry among some of the saints in both lands.

• I cannot deal properly with your enquiries until just after my return when I hope to supply what info and copies that are immediately available.

Meanwhile, keep going on and keep looking up!

Kind regards, Edwin.

From: Edwin Cross
Sun, 16 Feb 2003

Does anyone know anything about Mr. Herbert George Brand (1865-1942) of Forest Hill, London SE, who laboured in Japan starting around 1890s and was instrumental in establishing perhaps 20 assemblies.

• He even translated JND material into Japanese – is any of this left?

I have a few books written by HGB but no biographical information except in Korean which I cannot read! – apart from the dates of his life.

• There is no telling where some interesting facts about this brother might turn up your help will be appreciated.

• I had obtained an address of one of the surviving 'Brand' assemblies but till now have not had any response. You might have some information about the demise of the assembly testimony in Japan?

Yours in the Lord Jesus, Edwin.

From: Edwin Cross
Thu, 9 May Jan 2003

J. PELLATT 1843-1913

• He is buried next to FER and Geo. Broomhead of Greenwich at Nunhead Cemetery.

• These are buried in the same cemetery as Napoleon Noel, the Brethren Historian and W. J. Hocking (1864-1953) a well-known and highly regarded 'Kelly' brother.

• I have a very interesting report of the burial of FER which can be copied and posted to you if you wish.

I am not getting very far with my researches on Geo. and Arthur Cutting nor the following A. J. Pollock, F. B. Hole, Arthur [Wellesley] Pridham, Edward Crowley, Edward Cronin, Gustaf Gusstafson of Sweden, M. W. Biggs, William Reid and various other brethren.

• I can send a list of whom I need info on to anyone that has this kind of material at their fingers tips.: anecdotes, family conversions, letters, books, anything at all that might shed light on these unsung heroes of the faith.

• I wish that brethren had some memories – the taste for history is not very strong.

• For my part I have contacted your corespondent asking about CAC and hope to supply a copy of a letter of his and some biographical info.

I have around 200 pages of info on W. Kelly and 100 pages plus on CHM.

• The former is soon to be prepared for publication but CHM needs more work and help. I hope this appeal will stir your site viewers to help me.

Your site has numerous very interesting historical items and I hope these will be of use to many as they are to me and that the Lord will grant you grace to keep the presentation of the material in an objective way.

Kind Regards, Edwin Cross.

To: Edwin Cross
Thu, 15 May Jan 2003

Dear Edwin,
I trust you got on well in your recent trip to Egypt and Israel, and am glad to hear from you again.

Thanks for the details re burial of Joseph Pellatt. Such information is hard to come by on this side.

• Your email is now in the 'Mailbox' and I hope that it, along with your earlier inquiries, may attract interest and information.

• I must sadly agree with you that "the taste for history is not very strong".

Yes, we would be interested to see the "report of the burial of FER". I assume it is not the same one already on Biography: F. E. Raven: His Burial. Have you checked?

• Earlier you offered a copy of a word by E. Dennett at the marriage of JT to Miss Georgina Brown. This would be most welcome.

• If either of the above cannot be emailed please let me know and I'll send our snail mail address.

Do you have any details as to a Mr. R. M. Beverley? I have the references in Coad, Rowdon, Christian Brethren Archives and WK's 'JND, as I Knew Him'.

• I am looking for dates and places, birth, death, etc. – and especially his connections after the Bethesda division. Anything you can supply will be welcome.

• I have his excellent 'An Examination of the Scriptures on the Subject of Ministry'.

If we can be of any help with your 100 page info on CHM – proofreading etc. – please let us know.

Yes, we are committed to present historical material objectively.

• This is not an easy matter as everyone is to some extent influenced by his own background and experence.

• What is intended to be an objective presentation of facts may well appear to be biased to those of a different persuasion.

We appreciate hearing from you and hope to receive the items noted above.

May His blessing be on you. In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Edwin Cross
Sat, 17 May 2003

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for your message. The trip to Egypt to see the Brethren in Cairo and Alexandria was most encouraging.

• In Cairo they had an outreach meeting and around 800 persons were present. Many not identified with the assemblies there.

• Chapter Two exhibited with El Ekhwa Library at the Cairo International Bookfair. There were 4,000 Muslim exhibitors and 12 Christian exhibitors.

• The Brethren [El Ekhwa] had two large stands with their publications which included the books of CHM, WK, CS and B. F. Pinkerton [mentioned in TN&O mags.] in Arabic and the interest was very great.

• After Egypt the visit to Israel to be with the Brethren there was also most encouraging. The situation is fairly calm – but one must be prudent. The Brethren desire to circulate the early Brethren writings in Hebrew and we are praying about this need.

The items re FER burial and JT's Marriage meetings etc. can only be supplied by snail mail. Please give me your postal address and when I am back from the trade exhibition I will attend to your requirements.

R. M. Beverley was a Quaker who perhaps edited 'The Inquirer' magazine 1838-1840? – though GVW may have had some editorial role in it too.

• 'The Inquirer' was published by the Central Tract Depot [1839, 1840]. Old copies needed for my archive – if you have any please let me know.

R. Mackenzie Beverley came among Brethren following the Beaconite controversy which split the Quaker Movement – many then coming among Brethren in the 1830s, and influencing its mode of worship too!

• He wrote an excellent refutation of BWN's Apocalypse and prophetic interpretation. Beverley's views on this subject being akin to JND's.

• You are correct in stating that his 'An Examination of the Scriptures on the Subject of Ministry' is "excellent". It was published in the UK and North America and deserves renewed exposure.

• Frank Marotta has issued his 'Heresy of the Human Priesthood' which deals in part with the question of slave ownership by American churches at the time – this matter was so reprehensible to RMB.

• As I am absent from the office, I cannot access my archive, but will also do some note taking on RMB and hopefully let you have more details in due course.

• He seems to have refused Newton's speculations utterly but did not concur with JND and GVW's ecclesiastical stance re ongoing association with known, fundamental evil and hence ended among the neutral brethren party.

Among R Mackenzie Beverley titles in my library are:
Title, date, publisher, place, pages

• Church of England Examined by Scripture and Tradition: in an answer to Lectures by Rev. John Venn, of Hereford, on the Christian Ministery 1842 R. Groombridge London 84 pages

• An Inquiry into the Scriptural Doctrine of the Christian Ministry n.d. R. Groombridge London 68pp

• An Inquiry into the Scriptural Doctrine of the Christian Ministry n.d. [2nd ed.] R. Groombridge London 68pp

• A Letter to his Grace the Archbishop of York, on the present corrupt state of the Church of England 1831 W. B. Johnson Beverley, Yorks 39pp

• An Examination of the Scriptures on the subject of ministry n.d. Publishing Office Glasgow 93pp

• An Inquiry into the Scriptural Doctrine of the Christian Ministry n.d. R. Groombridge London 48pp

• The Tombs of the Prophets, a Lay Sermon on the Corruptions of the Church of Christ 1831 W. B. Johnson Beverley, Yorkshire 58pp.

Objectivity is essential, but admittedly not too easy to present without personal bias.

• JBS once wrote: "… It is impossible for a person either to write or to speak without imparting in intent that which has weight with himself. Be he as guarded as he may, he imparts it, and thus, may become the agent for good or for evil".

• Interpretation of facts needs careful handling and I pray you will be given grace and wisdom.

With Christian greetings, Edwin N. Cross.

To: Edwin Cross
Sat, 17 May 2003

Dear Edwin,
Thanks very much for your prompt and informative reply. Perhaps when you are free you could mail the FER and JT items?

The information on R. M. Beverley is most welcome and of great interest.

• We have considered the possibility of posting part or all of his 'Examination ...' on MB.

• I look forward to whatever additional data you can furnish on your return to the office and appreciate you taking time from your busy schedule to be of assistance.

Yes, I'm familiar with the valuable quote from JBS on bias. We seek grace to be preserved from it in regard to the interpretation of history.

• See Ministry: J. B. Stoney 2: On Circulating Writings of Those who have Turned Aside.

• At the same time, in presenting ministry, we are committed to presenting that which we believe is according to the Scriptures, even though others may not agree.

In our Lord, Gordon.

From: Edwin Cross
Sun, 19 May 2003

Dear brother in Christ,
Here is some more info re Robert Mackenzie Beverley – born 1797/8 died 1868, one of the early Brethren teachers.

• He was baptised by immersion at Oxford on Thursday evening October 4, 1838, by Mr Bulteel.

• On that occasion RMB preached a sermon before his baptism to a large congregation from Galatians 3:26-29.

• The sermon ended by showing why it is administered in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. There were nine persons baptised on this occasion. ['The Inquirer' magazine, 1838, page 351.]

He wrote: "The Evangelical Clergy have brewed new wine, but they have not procured new bottles," [from Examination page 76].

• Roy Coad observes that it was an attempt to repair this lack that Beverley and his fellows broke from the churches of their day.

That is all for the present – more to follow when time permits. Some photocopies of items of interest to follow soonest in the post.

Kind greetings, Edwin Cross.

To: Edwin Cross
Tue, 09 Sep 2003

Dear Edwin,
Here is some information from John Shinn in answer to your enquiry re Mr. Brand.

• I hope it is useful and I'm sure John will be glad to hear from you as to it.

In our Lord Jeus, Gordon.

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Gary Cuccia

To: Gary Cuccia
garycucciaATaol.com
Whittier, California, USA, 90604
Mon, 19 Aug, 2002

Dear Gary,
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren'. I trust you found something of interest.

I'm not sure whether your second separate message is meant for MB as it is not addressed to MB.

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Gary Cuccia
Mon, 19 Aug 2002

Gordon,
I have been writing devotions on the Internet for some 2 or 3 years. I am so grateful for you brothers who share what you have of the Lord.

• The ministries of Austin Sparks, Nee, C. A. Coates, and so many others have been a tremendous influence on my walk with the Lord.

Bless you and if you would rather not be on the email list please let me know. God bless you, Gary.

To: Gary Cuccia
Wed, 21 Aug 2001

Dear Gary,
Thanks for your reply and explanation.

'My Brethren' has received earlier complaints from some guests because they believe they are the target of unsolicited and unwanted email as a result of their email addresses appearing on MB.

• In view of this I ask you to respect my request that you remove both MB and any of its guests from your mailing list.

• You may not be aware of it but unsolicited and repeated emailings by anyone – regardless of the worthiness of the subject – are considered by many as an unconscionable abuse of the internet comparable to the intrusiveness of ordinary 'junk' mail and telemarketing.
  • Even those who might normally be sympathetic to your messages may well be annoyed and alienated.

• Your zeal and desire to share your thoughts on the Scriptures with others is understood and appreciated –
  • but it would be far more appropriate to establish your own web site on which you could offer regular mailings to those who desire and request them.

  • If you do so in the future, please let me know.

The above remarks also appear in Guests: My Stand 4: Unsolicited Email: Abuse of the Internet.

I'm glad you have benefited by the ministry of Mr. C. A. Coates, as I have.

• However, if you stop to consider it, I trust you will agree that it is incongruous – after his death – to group him with others, however personally worthy they may be,

• with whom – in his life and for conscience sake – he would not have been free to walk in Christian fellowship.
  • See The Use of Ministry and Miles J. Stanford.

Your further message, just received, on the greatness of Christ has some strange phrases: "this Awesome God, the Lord Jesus" and "the GOD-Man".

• I firmly hold to the full Deity of the Lord Jesus and that "the Word became flesh"

• but must object to your use of such unscriptural and confused designations which becloud the truth of His Person and the truth of the Incarnation.
  • See Doctrine: The Person of Christ.

None of the above is intended as mere criticism, Gary, but is offered in a brotherly spirit and in the interest of the truth and your own spiritual welfare.

In the Lord, Gordon.

Your guest entries and messages will show that the continuation of My BrethrenFaff is important to you.

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