Mailbox: Gordon Simmonds
December 2003 – present

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Gordon W. Simmonds

To: Gordon W. Simmonds
GordonWSimm66ATaol.com
Andover, Hampshire, England
Thu, 11 December 2003

Dear Gordon,
Welcome to 'My Brethren', how good to hear from you! We have much in common, not only in Christ but in our experience.

• I was at the Dorking meetings in 1964 and, as you may have noticed, have been in touch with Laurie Twinam as well, first in 1971 and again in recent years.

• Besides sharing the same name we are of the same generation; I turned 74 in November.

Thanks for your address and telephone number. I'd like to speak with you but will have to figure out timing. I'm sending this to both email addresses you show as I'm not sure which is best.

If you care to share anything else for MB's 'Mailbox' please feel free. I hope we can keep in touch.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon W. Simmonds
Fri, 12 December 2003

Dear Brother,
Many thanks for responding to my E-mail. It is fine to use either of my E-mail addresses. GsimmondsATaol.com is the main one and I usually use it for business matters. However it seems to generate a lot of what is called spam so I tend to use the other one for corresponding with friends and family.

I have just read your article on Mr. C. A. Coates.

• My Mother resided in Torquay for about two years when she was in her twenties and she told me that she and the Hiorns with whom she was living used to go over to Teignmouth to the readings with Mr.Coates.

• She commented on his Christlike spirit which seemed to be noticable when he entered the room.

• However, sometimes when Brothers continually put questions to him he could be seen to get irritated – I can't think of a better word – by it.

Mr. Charlie Layton of Croydon lived for a time in his early days with Mr. Coates and indicated how much he appreciated his time with him.

• I have understood that during his last painful illness he was heard to say: 'We are not allowed to murmur, but we can groan'.

We had a Brother in Beckenham for a few years who had moved from Teignmouth and consequently knew Mr. Coates.

• He never said in my hearing anything to suggest that Mr. Coates had repudiated his teaching as to Christ's Somship.

After I left the 'Jims' I used to meet with David White, Arthur Brown and Jesse Crosland [FER's youngest daughter] and can confirm that what you said regarding Mr. Coates and Mr. Raven agrees with what I was told by them.

• For the last few years of her life a sister who had served in Mr.Raven's household when she was young came back to the Brethren's meeting in Kingston on Thames.

• She told us she remembered that when FER came back fom one of his American trips he found that one of his daughters had started going to the Church of England and she remembers him having a long conversation with her at the time.

• David White once told me as to FER that once when he came home from work he asked his children what they had been doing and received the reply: 'Reading the Bible, Daddy'. He was not impressed and said words to the effect that they would have done better to be outside playing cricket.

What all this means to me is that the Lord – as with Paul – gives his servants something to keep them humble: physical limitations in the case of CAC, trials in his household with FER, and a throat problem with JT Snr.

Love in Christ, Gordon W. Simmonds

To: Gordon W. Simmonds
Sun, 14 December 2003

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for the details of CAC and FER which are very interesting and confirming, and a welcome and valuable addition to MB's 'Mailbox'.

• As time permits, your reminiscences may well be used to update the biographies.

Back in the 1970's or 80's I had some good correspondence with Arthur Brown. You may have noticed two of his letters in Doctrine: The Lord's Sonship.

You are quite right that "the Lord – as with Paul – gives his servants something to keep them humble". If brethren generally had recognized this it might have prevented some of the servants being almost idolized.

Thanks again and don't hesitate to write at any time.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon W. Simmonds
Fri, 16 January 2004

Gordon Rainbow
'My Brethren' Website

Dear Gordon,
I have no wish to swamp you with information, but I have put together a letter with a couple of attachments, some of which you may well find of interest.

Over the last month or so I have been accessing the 'My Brethren' website and reading through a substantial amount of the material on it.

• From what I have read so far I find myself favourably impressed with the spirit in which the site is written and also find myself in agreement with the vast majority of what is said on it.

• The spirit is important as Mr. Coates says: "A bad spirit is much more serious than any mere differences as to doctrine. The latter we might count on the Lord to adjust in due time, but a naughty spirit is a question of moral state", Letters page 80.

• I also think that the site is fairly balanced between that which calls for thanksgiving and that which calls for humbling. See for instance what we get in Acts 7.

I have listed out a number of pamphlets and books in my possession and enclose the list herewith. [Not shown here.]

• This does not include the main ministry of Darby, Stoney etc.

• Apart from these I expect you already have or know of most of what is on the list, but if there is anything you would like to peruse I would be pleased to send it to you.

Stow-on-the-Wold

I noticed a reference to Stow-on-the-Wold on the website in August 2002. [Peter Stanbridge: Mailbox & Guest Book 8.]

• I was brought up there during the second world war and we went to what was then known as Ebenezer Hall, Chapel Street, off Well lane – those who went there were known in the town as the 'Ebenezers'.

• The Hall I believe was once a Baptist Chapel but became an Exclusive Brethren meeting room and owned by my Father's Uncle, George Young who on his death left it to my Uncle, Chris Simmonds.

• However my Mother, Brother and myself left Stow in 1949 after my Father's death and since then it has been replaced by a larger building, presumably owned by a trust.

• I was in Stow for an hour or so only a couple of months ago, but I did notice that what had been the junior school now had a Taylor Exclusive Brethren notice outside.

• A former Exclusive who has a guest house in the village of Nether Westcote seemed to think that the Exclusives now have more than one meeting room in the town. I did not have time to investigate.

• The old hall address may well have changed as the area has been redeveloped. Plans were on the stocks before the second world war but during the war they were held in abeyance.

• The house we lived in was the last one to be built in the town before the onset of war.

• Nether Westcote is about half way between Stow and Burford – the latter about 10 miles from Stow – which as you know was the home of T. H. Reynolds.

• Chipping Camden is about 10 miles in another direction from Stow. There was an Exclusive meeting there when I was young and there well may have been a linkup with the Stow meeting at the time when Brethren were encouraged to go into 'the cities' if I remember correctly.

Freemasons

I notice that someone suggested that Sir Robert Anderson may have been a Freemason.

• I fully support your caution as to this. However it is always possible that even a godly Christian may have been caught up in that sort of thing before conversion or when away from the Lord.

• An Uncle of mine by marriage – Charles Lamb – was, I was told, converted when very young but got away and became a Freemason.

• However my Aunt who was his secretary took him to a gospel meeting in London which led to his giving up the masons and coming into fellowship.

• She later married him. After he went to be with the Lord my Aunt married Fred Hemmings, a brother of Edward.

Toronto

I am afraid that when Toronto is mentioned it makes me think of the so-called Toronto blessing which involves falling backwards.

• I have seen the thing happening in a restaurant and I was asked to involve myself which I would not. I admit I was quite literally scared.

• When asked about that sort of thing I usually point enquirers to what Jacob said of Dan the apostate tribe, Genesis 49: 17; and Eli who died after falling backwards and breaking his neck, 1 Samuel 4: 18 – hardly a blessing!

• Those that came to take the Lord in the garden of Gethsemane did not fall backwards but went away backward and fell to the ground. John 18: 6.

• I do not know Canada well but have been to Durham as my youngest son married a Canadian girl. They work with the New Tribes Mission.

William Kelly

I expect you know that William Kelly left his books to Middlesborough library.

• When I was a young man I went into the library and had a look at some of his ministry.

• I was at the time shocked to read his attack on FER's American ministry.

• Although the detail I have forgotten I remember reading his comment on FER's statement about the end being Eternal life – found in Romans 6: 22.

• Kelly said Eternal life is the beginning not the end. It struck me in saying this he was contradicting Scripture.

• It did not seem to me that F. Roy Coad's statement that Kelly had nothing of "Darby's warped bitterness in controversy" applied to that production! 'A History of the Brethren Movement', page 208.

• Mr. Arthur Brown commented to me that Mr. Coad seemed to take every opportunity to blacken JND. Mr. Coad, incidentally, was an accountant.

• Incidentally, in case you don't know, Arthur George Brown went to be with the Lord on April 29, 1978, at Bexhill. He was 79.

No Consensus as to when the Teaching went Wrong

It seems to me that one of the causes, if not the main cause, of division amongst those who have left the Jims is that there is no consensus as to when the teaching went wrong.

• Some would go back before JT Snr's time whereas others seem not to go back before Aberdeen.

• There are what I used to call inner-outs and outer-outs so to speak, and all stages in between. It is of course very sad, but no doubt we need to be humbled by what has happened.

• I noted regarding the matter of sitting in circles that as a convenience for passing the emblems there was no harm in it, but at the same time I feared that it was a subtle way of saying there is a circle and we are it,
  • whereas Mr. Raven said: "the circle is broken and obscured … all we can do is individually to keep ourselves right in relation to the centre". 'Readings U.S.A. and Canada - 1902' page 351.

Brethren in Iran

There was – I think in the 1950's – a link up with a group of Christians in Iran.

• Because the Brethren had got their fingers burnt, so to speak, over the China matter they refused to admit the Iranian brethren except individually.

• However it came to light that the Iranian brethren hadn't sought fellowship earlier because we didn't address the Spirit!

• They could have argued that they had the truth before we did and that therefore they should have been the ones to admit us to their fellowship!

• I have always felt there has been a tendency to claim that one company is a main line from JND, in effect, taking the Pharisaical line that "We have Abraham" i.e. JND "for [our] father", Matthew 3: 9.

• I notice that John says: "Do not think to say within yourselves"; it is not just a matter of what we may assert, but what we may think.

• JT Snr also made it quite clear that when he spoke of the Christian circle he spoke of the church normally and not of any little company such as the Brethren he met with in Brooklyn. Letters 1: 59.

A 'Monument' to the Irving Connection – 1
The comments have been added to History: Early Years –- Recollections: Account of Early Days by Miss A. M. Stoney.

In this connection I recently had my attention drawn to a large neo-Gothic Church with the pretentious title 'The One Holy Catholic Apostolic Church' in Albury Surrey.

• I have often been passed this church en route to various places and a few days ago had another look at it. It is not open to the public – a notice outside says so – and from information given me by some Christian friends who live in nearby Chilworth services are not held there.

• It was clearly connected with the Irvingite people from information on the internet. My eldest Son who himself has passed the place many time always felt it to be spooky though he knew nothing of its Irvingite connections.

• It is well kept up though apparently unused. Curiously it is only a few hundred yards from the so-called silent pool – a tourist attraction – and itself might well be called the silent Church.

• To me it is a warning against taking pretentious ground. My Christian friends have a book about it and have promised to lend it me. It may contain some information of interest.

Decline in 'Open' Meetings and Freemasons

We do find that in the UK the so-called Open meetings are in decline.

• In the 1950's there were approximately 1,800 meetings, now there are just over a 1,000 – i.e. in December 2003.

• We have what I recollect JBS called an ebb tide.

From the internet I see that such 'way out' organisations such as the Freemasons are also declining in numbers.

Comments on Mr. Newton's Principles
The comments have been added to History: The First 50 Years.

Around 1970 I went to the British Museum library and did a bit of research on B. W. Newton.

• This confirmed that he undoubtedly held clerical views and I noted down extracts to prove it.

The headship of Christ and the liberty of the Spirit were practically set aside.

• If these assertions are doubted as being the views of Mr. Newton's traducers only, one would draw the readers attention to what has been admitted by Mr. Newton's avowed supporters.

• Dr. Tregelles said: "It had been the endeavour of Mr. Newton to prevent the Brethren at Plymouth from adopting the practices and opinions as to ministry and absence of order into which those in other places, professing to hold the same principles were running. In this endeavour he was for some years successful, so that there was at Plymouth the definite recognition of ministry, such as was not unsuitably termed 'modified Presbyterianism'" – quoted in 'An earnest expostulation' by John Cox, Jnr 1869 on page 13.

• In another pamphlet it was said: "Mr. Newton … sought at the same time to maintain the truths embodied in the Creeds and first eighteen articles of the Church of England to which he has always adhered; but with which the Brethren are altogether at variance on many important points" – 'Judge Righteous Judgment' by John Cox, Jnr on page 4.

• Finally, it may be pointed out that after 1847 Mr. Newton ceased to associate with Brethren, and became minister of his own chapel in Queens Road, Bayswater where, according to the previously quoted writer, he preached "twice each Lord's day", "Sunday after Sunday".

• As the same writer states: "Mr. Newton's official description: 'Minister of a Congregation of Protestants holding the Creeds and first eighteen Articles of the Church of England, but rejecting her order and ritual' is of itself, quite sufficient to show that he does not belong to a body who ignores all Creeds and Articles, and who hold loose democratic views of Ministry and do not recognise 'pastors and teachers as the definite ordinance* of Christ'" 'Judge Righteous Judgment' on page 44.

  * pastors and teachers are 'gifts' not 'ordinances'. Ephesians 4:7-12.

• Is it therefore to be wondered at that Mr. Darby stated that at Plymouth "there was a subversion of the principles on which we met", C.W. 20: 40.

Mr. Newton's Views Differ From Mr. Darby's
The comments have been added to History: Early Contentions: The Sufferings of Christ.

Around 1970 I went to the British Museum library and did a bit of research on B. W. Newton.

• This confirmed that he undoubtedly held clerical views and I noted down extracts to prove it. [See above.]

• Perhaps more importantly I noticed he strongly repudiated that Mr. Darby's thoughts on the sufferings of Christ were anything like his own.

• Had they been anything like his own one would have thought that Newton would have said: 'You are now saying what you earlier condemned me for'.

• The brothers who were attacking Darby were written to by Newton saying they were quite wrong. I have the extracts in manuscript and have now typed them out.

Mr. Darby denied that his views were akin to those of Mr. Newton, and, significantly, Mr. Newton also denied that his views were anything like those of Mr. Darby.

• "You are altogether mistaken, trusting to the misstatements of others, in supposing that I ever held doctrines the same, or substantially the same, as those attributed to Mr. Darby … I have always maintained that the life he had as man was pure and holy; and that the same life He laid down, that very life He took again", 'An earnest expostulation' by John Cox, Jnr, 1869 on page 24.

• The author of the paper from which this quotation is made says further on: "The way in which you have associated the name of Mr. Newton with that of Mr. Darby, in your paper, is most unwarrantable; their views, as contained in their published writings, are as strongly contrasted as light and darkness", page 33.

• In another paper by the same author – 'Judge Righteous Judgment' – the 'Record of 1866' is quoted as saying: "It is one of the favourite efforts of the Darbyites to assail the doctrine of our Lord's passive righteousness, and to make the Atonement only to consist in His sufferings on the cross … Mr. Newton argues against the error … he also shows that the error arises from the dangerously false notion that the Son of God's relation to the Father was on the cross changed, and that then for the first* time He was treated as a sinner subject to the curse of a broken law". In speaking of Mr.Darby's views the author of the paper suggests that his "meaning may be misrepresented" by those who were identifying his views with those of Mr. Newton. Pages 9-10.

  * Evidently Mr. Newton still held that Christ was treated as a sinner subject to the curse throughout his life here.

Your Brother in Christ, Gordon W. Simmonds.

To: Gordon W. Simmonds
Fri, 16 January 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thanks very much for your letter and attachments. They read well.

• I have read them through only once but would like to go over them again before making a general response.

• In fact, I'm delighted to have the information and your assessment of various matters.

• Most, if not all, will find a home on various pages of MB as well as in the Mailbox.

It may be a week or so before I can get back to you. Thanks again.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Gordon W. Simmonds
Thu, 22 January 2004

Dear Gordon,
I have had time to review your letter and thank you again for all the valuable information and insights.

• If you check your letter in the Mailbox you will see that three sections have also been used to round out the History pages.

As a result of our contacts I hope you will be able to have more positive thoughts of Toronto. We hear occasionally of the so-called 'blessing' but it seems to have affected other places to a far greater degree.

• The few of us here remain satisfied with being blessed in the heavenlies.

As to Iran, I have some correspondence bewteen AJG and Mr. Mackertich which I may eventually post in 'Memorabilia: The Ears of the Assembly'.

• I had come to the same conclusion that the 'China matter' had made brethren unduly cautious, but I had never heard of the connection with the Spirit.

I had intended to comment on "no consensus". However Daniel Soukoreff has written referring to it in detail and so I have replied to him.

• Attached is my reply to Dan for your consideration. Perhaps your letter will stir up more interest!

Any further comments or information will be welcome. And, if you are free, I would be interested to learn your experiences since Dorking and your subsequent contacts with AGB.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon W. Simmonds
Mon, 26 Jan 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for your E-mail. You will appreciate that the factual information I have passed on to you is correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.

• At my age my memory for names and recent events is sometimes suspect, but things I have experienced and been told in the more distant past I find I can usually recall pretty clearly.

• I give below a few pieces of information more to confirm what I have already said or what you may have heard from other sources as much as anything else.

• I, of course, leave it to you what, if anything, you consider should be put on the website.

• I have replied to Daniel [Soukoreff], but as what I have said below has some relevance to his queries you may consider that some of it should be relayed to him.

The Mr. Lamb which I mentioned in my last E-mail was a leather chemist and became the principal of the Leathersellers Technical College and the editor of a trade magazine 'The Leather World'.

• He was in some way related to the essayist, and perhaps inherited some literary ability from him.

• He did some work for JT and there is a brief mention of him in Vol 2 of his letters on page 142, though he is not mentioned in the index.

A 'Monument' to the Irving Connection – 2
These comments have been added to History: Early Years –- Recollections: Account of Early Days by Miss A. M. Stoney.

I received the booklet regarding the Catholic Apostolic Church that I mentioned to you and read it through.

• It appears that the so-called twelve apostles that were appointed at the close of Edward Irving's life in the 1800's had all died by 1901 and were not replaced.

• It had been expected that the Lord would have come by then.
  • Although we can see that the end cannot be far off, we should not presume to say that the Lord will come before a certain date or in our lifetimes.

• Subsequently the Church declined and it is considered that such adherents as there are today think we are in the time of silence spoken of in Revelation 8: 1.

• However the Church in Germany broke away and appointed more apostles and called themselves the New Apostolic Church and claim to have something like 8-9 million adherents world-wide. There are websites relating to that Church.

• I have, incidentally, taken some photos of the Church in Albury.

Crystal Palace Fire
The following has been added to the note in Biography: H. D'A, Champney.

I think I saw something on your website regarding the Crystal Palace fire before World war II.

• We lived in West Croydon at the time and I remember my Father telling me that when the Brethren came out of the meeting – prayer meeting I think – the road was lit up by the fire.

• My Father thought it rather hard that some were suggesting that those who had been involved in arranging meetings in the Crystal palace should have no more part in the arrangement of the proposed meetings.

• Curiously, there was a second fire at the Crystal Palace after the war when I was living at Beckenham, Kent, which borders on Croydon. My bedroom looked out towards Crystal Palace and I saw the conflagration from my window. It looked as if the fire was only a few streets away, but investigation showed that it was in fact the other side of Penge.

As to the so-called Toronto blessing, what you say as to its not being made a lot of in Toronto is in line with the fact that my daughter-in-law, who was brought up in Durham, Canada, had not apparently heard about it until I told her of it. Certainly what you say as to our spiritual blessings is very apropos.

Danger of Idolising

On another matter I always remember my Uncle, Chris Simmonds who was a godly Brother saying to me in his quaint way that

• when at a large meeting Mr. Taylor entered the room, the word went round 'Mr. Taylor' and most heads turned, then 'Mr. Myles' and heads turned again.

• His comment was something like: 'We were in danger of idolising them'. He went to be with the Lord in 1963. His widow said subsequently in her Gloucestershire way: 'They're so 'ard, they're so ard'.

• Hardness goes with pride – Daniel 5: 20-21 – and I believe there was a good deal of that amongst Brethren.

• I remember Mr. [L. E.] Samuels [Winnipeg] giving a word that impressed me at the time on Genesis 49: 5-7 concerning Simeon and Levi who took a violent line.

As to Sunday Schools that Daniel mentions I have no definite thoughts. My Mother's elder Sisters I understood at one time went to those held by the Open Brethren and no objections were raised in those days.

Where Things Went Wrong

As to where things amongst Brethren went wrong one feels that apart from the state of things that prevailed in the 1960's both in doctrine and practice one would have to consider the underlying state that existed for a long time before then.

• Personally, one's judgement – and one could be wrong – is that the high point of Brethren's history came about the time of the 1932's hymn book revision.

• Subsequent unhappy conditions such as at one time existed at Westfield and Newcastle in the UK were perhaps like the sores that did not spread rather than a leprosy that did – consider Leviticus 13.

• The state of things in the Stow meeting in the 1940's where I was brought up were far from happy.

Contacts in 1965

I ascertained from my visitors' book that we must have actually left the Jims somewhere in the first two months of 1965.

• We contacted Mr. and Mrs. Cyril Pittock who lived at Banstead – their eldest son was married to my wife's stepfather's [Bert Slegg's] daughter. They formerly went to the Sutton meeting.

• For some time from then on we met in the house of Mr. David White at Raynes Park, Wimbledon, on Lord's day mornings. We did not break bread.

• Mr. Larney and Mrs. Benning – Wimbledon locals – also attended as well as Margery and Joyce Hawgood of Guildford who left the Jims about the same time as we did – they were at the 1964 Dorking Halls meetings.

• They were the only other regular attendees apart from Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Brown and Jesse Crosland. Mr. and Mrs. Brown came to live at Banstead before they moved to Bexhill.

• Jesse Crosland was in a nursing home in Wimbledon. Her exact age was always a mystery and after her decease she was actually found to have been celebrating her birthday on the wrong day – per the biography of her son, Anthony Crosland by his wife.

• All those with whom we used to meet are now with the Lord.

Present Situation

Subsequently I have not been in fellowship with any in the sense of having part with them in the Breaking of Bread.

• At the present time I go to the Gospel and certain other meetings at what is nominally an Open meeting, though they are quite particular as to who they Break Bread with.

• My youngest son who is with the 'New Tribes Mission' is not acceptable, because he sometimes Breaks Bread at 'churches' other than those of Brethren.

• I am not acceptable because I have only been baptised as an infant.

• I have never actually asked for fellowship and do not take audible part in the meetings apart from the singing and the adding of my Amen to others' prayers.

• JND's translation is often consulted in the Bible reading meetings, and I know those that give a lead in such meetings often read Mr.Coates's 'Outlines at home.'

Other Earlier Contacts

Apart from the persons mentioned above we did have contact with Fergus Angus of Donhagadee in Northern Ireland. He and his wife are now with the Lord.

• His son David still lives in that area and I saw him last at the funeral of Mr. A. P.Aris of Bournemouth – he committed the body.

• Mr. Aris lived to be 99 and he and his wife are buried in Winton, Bournemouth cemetary, only a few yards from the grave of Mr. Darby.

• Mr. Aris's Christian names were: Algernon Pollock after his uncle of that name.

Thoughts on Happenings amongst Brethren

I have on my Xdrive some pieces that I wrote over a number of years which give in some detail my thinking on all that has happened amongst Brethren in the second half of the last century.

• I can make this accessible to anyone who is seriously interested, though I would not want to put it online generally as Philistines might gloat over it. 2 Samuel 1: 20. I think you will appreciate what I mean.

• I have various papers either written by or connected with the case of Arthur Brown. However, I wondered how many you may have already got.

• I see you already have his 'Historical Review' and also a letter about the Sonship question. I have also a paper of his on the Oneness of God and other material.

• Some of these papers I could probably scan into my computer and send them over the internet if you have not already got them, but would like to have them.

• I have also quite a few papers by Algy Aris and George Rogers.

• I first met Arthur Brown after he had recently retired from his post as Secretary of the British Tyre and Rubber Company. I visited him at Bexhill towards the close of his life. He predeceased his wife.

I always felt that the teaching as to Christ's Sonship was an advance on what is generally held in Christendom and had clear biblical support.

• However some subsequent teaching seemed to me to be a reversion to practices in Christendom and involved the use of expressions not found in Scripture.

• From what I have read on your website you would not appear to agree with me in this area.

Please be free to ask me for any information that you think I might have which would be relevant to your website.

I have no doubt that there is a financial cost involved in maintaining your website. I would be pleased to make a financial contribution if this would be acceptable. I should be pleased to know how I could do this.

Reply to Dan Soukoreff

My reply to Mr. Soukoreff is shown below, in case he has not sent you a copy.

• I have just spoken on the phone to Geoffrey Bacon of Coulsdon and asked for a copy of his book 'The One Body' which Daniel refers to in his letter.

• As he has asked me, I will let him know the impression it makes on me when I have read it.

Your brother in Christ, Gordon Simmonds.

Dear Mr. Soukoreff,
Thank you for your E-mail about my comments on various topics on the 'My Brethren' website.

• From what you have said I assume you have seen my second letter (16/1/04) which Gordon Rainbow is looking into as time permits.

• From the fact that I associated with Arthur Brown, Gordon Rainbow may well have deduced that I thought the ministry was on the wrong track before 1959.

• When things go wrong one usually finds that there is error Godward before there is error manward. To give scriptural examples:
  • in Genesis 3 the sin was against God, but in Genesis 4 the sin also had a manward aspect.

  • Solomon got wrong in his relations with God before the break-up in Rehoboam's time – due to rough speaking – see 1 Kings 11 and 12.

  • See also Romans 1: 21 and onward. Idolatry was followed by sexual and other evils. I leave the thought with you.

I feel that one would have to be careful as to the ministry that came out after Mr. Coates went to be with the Lord. We have not got his spiritual judgement upon it.

CAC was taken by the Lord in 1945 before JT's ministry as to addressing the Spirit – first suppressed by the manager of Stow Hill in 1942 – and before addressing God, as Father, Son and Holy Spirit was generally accepted about the time of the 1951 hymn book revision. CAC's judgment would always, of course, be valued but cannot be the ultimate test of truth. His unflinching support of the truth as to the Sonship of Christ – which some dare to impugn – is proof of his rigorous and scrupulous examination of teaching as unfolded by the Spirit. See Biography: C. A. Coates: His Stand and links.     GAR

JTSr's ministry at the end of his life

I remember my Father saying in the 1940's that he did not think that Mr. Taylor Snr's ministry at the end of his life would all be on the top note. My Father went to be with the Lord in 1949.

• However a few years after that a company of Brethren from this country (UK) went on a liner to America for meetings in New York.

• When they returned we had very enthusiastic accounts of the time they had in America: the hospitality of the Brethren and the trips they had had to such places as the Niagara Falls. However there was nothing about the meetings.

• My Mother and my Aunt who lived together took a sister who went on the trip, and they knew well, aside – Miss Ruth Nunn of Kennington, London – and said, in effect: 'We have heard a lot but nothing about the meetings which were the main object of the trip'.

• Her reply was: 'Mr. Taylor was not up to taking them; they only lasted for about 15 minutes'. This explained why for some time before Mr.Taylor was taken to be with the Lord we only got brief summaries of meetings with Mr.Taylor produced by Dr. Stollery.

Mr. Taylor was born in 1870 and was over 80, a great age, at the time referred to above. See my comments and of others in Biography: J. Taylor: His Last Days.     GAR

Geoffery Bacon

I have not seen or read Geoffery Bacon's booklet 'The One body'. It does not appear, as far as I can see, on the 'My Brethren' website. There is a lot on the site and I may have missed it.

• I think I saw his address somewhere. It is now many years since I had contact with Geoffery though I expect I have his address in an old address book. No doubt I can get a copy of the book from him.

Jim Trussler, Horsham

I used to work in Horsham and had contact with Jim [J.F.] Trussler [son of Fred W. Trussler] when there.

• I visited him and his wife what must now be over 10 years ago – he was then about 77, I recollect – and invited him to speak at a lunchtime Christian fellowship meeting that I was responsible for and which was held in a room at the back of a Church in the town.

• His response was to say that he would have to ask his Master about that, which I thought was in a way quite a good reply although it was really intended to be a refusal without offending me. I have heard no more as to him or his wife since.

Your Brother in Christ, Gordon W Simmonds.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Fri, 30 Jan 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thank you very much for your last email and all the interesting information.

• It is now posted on MB with a few deletions and some explanatory notes. As you will see, some parts have also been added to other MB pages.

We would indeed be glad to see and perhaps copy some of the rare publications you have in your possession. Jeff will contact you later as to these.

• Besides what you already know, I have an October 1955 paper by AGB which deals with "God as presented in the Scriptures". Is this the same as that which you refer to on "the Oneness of God"?

• I also have a letter of February 12, 1965, to AJG re his 'Recovery ...'.

• I would be glad to have any others by AGB, APA – I thought I had 1 or 2 but can't locate at this moment – or G. Rogers which might be suitable for MB or, at least, valuable to clarify various situations.

• If these, along with any of your own papers which you are free to share, could be scanned and emailed it will be appreciated.

While we may have some differences of judgment of some matters, we have much more in common and I trust we can continue to keep in touch. Your correspondence is a valuable addition to the Mailbox.

Affectionately in our lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Thu, 5 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon, Thank you for your E-mail of the 30th January. I think you and others are doing a good work in preserving as much as possible of the ministry of the Lord's servants.

• I have often thought that Timothy was probably used to preserve the ministry of the Apostle Paul. At least we know that Paul wrote to him about the books and especially the parchments. 2 Timothy 4: 13.

As to A. G. Brown's productions and your queries:

1. 'The Presentation of God in the Holy Scriptures' 1955 (The Oneness of God is a separate publication in 1957)
2. Letter to Mr. Gardiner dated February 12th 1965.

I have located copies of these papers. Additionally I have located the following papers written by Mr. Brown or otherwise relevant to him: [Not shown here].

Some of the above papers I could scan and send by E-mail but I think I would have trouble doing the larger publications. I think when I spoke of scanning in an earlier E mail I was being somewhat over optimistic in what I could do. Did I know of an address to which I could send the larger documents I could send them to yourself or Jeff by snail mail?

I have made certain of my own productions available to you and Daniel on my Xdrive. You should have received a notification to that effect by now. The dates on which I originally wrote the articles are important to note.

In addition to the above papers I also have the following: [Not shown here].

Apart from the above I have large folders of productions of A. P. Aris and George Rogers which cover a good many subjects. If you have not already got them I could send them to you if you would like to go through them for anything useful.

I think that even though it might not be advisible to post all the productions I have listed above on the website, they could be useful as backup if you receive challenges as to the subjects written about.

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon Simmonds.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Thu, 5 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for email which I'll reply to in next few days. I was able to access Xdrive but can't get 'download' to work, after trying several times – or I can't find the downloaded files, don't know which.

Would you mind setting up so Jeff could also download. He seems to have better success with files we receive from others. And if they are in 'Word' I won't be able to read to convert any way.

Hope this won't be too much extra trouble, and again thanks for all your willing help.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Fri, 6 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for the files. The documents are readable with very minimal distortion. I have saved them in RTF and sent them on to Gordon Rainbow, just in case!

• I look forward to reading these items. I appreciate the brotherliness of your contact. I grow more and more thankful for being able to "meet" so many brethren over the WWW, all of whom contribute to one's understanding of our history and/or current times.

Yours in our Lord Jesus.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, 9 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
Sorry for the delay. I have, as you know, all the items in your 1st group except for 'Oneness'. I also have item #6 in your second group. Apart from that I have no others, and none of the third group.

• They all look extremely interesting. I see you are a real 'collector' as I also am!

If you are still willing we would appreciate scanned copies of any short items. Then we can see about how to handle the remaining items, probably by mailing to Jeff.

• We would of course cover the cost and arrange to return when scanned.

• I am going through your own papers and will refer to them later.

You may be interested in my recent correspondence with Laurie Twinam re papers of Geo. Rogers, especially as you mention you have a number of these.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Thu, 12 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
I have scanned three one page pieces regarding the Stow Hill Bible and Tract Depot and attach them herewith (item 8 second group).

• If they are accessible and readable your end I can send more. However, if the pieces do not come out sufficiently clearly, maybe I could fax them to you. I have a fax machine so that would not be a problem with me.

• Incidentally before I scanned the attached pieces I had to cut down two of them on my photocopier. The photocopier only does black and white and is second-hand so is not ideal, but it is usually adequate for my purposes.

I would mention a couple of other points while I am writing.

1. I notice that in the Dictionary of the Christian Church there is an article on the Catholic Apostolic Church by Timothy C. F. Stunt.

• I wondered if he is the same Timothy Stunt with whom you have had correspondence which appears on your website. He does not in the article, incidentally, mention the Church at Albury.

2. I read what Laurie Twinam said about the papers of Geo. Rogers with which I fully agree.

• Personally I think I have all the productions he sent out – three files full. Eventually they stopped coming and I had rather assumed that either he was no longer well enough to produce them or was now with the Lord.

• What Laurie said confirms what I thought. I read the papers as they came out and then filed them. I admit I have not to date gone over them again.

• Your suggestion as to what should be done with them on the web commends itself to me, though of course that is entirely a matter for yourselves.

Affectionately in Christ, Gordon Simmonds.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Thu, 12 Feb 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for the scans. I am able to read all three documents; Gordon can only read one – but not to worry, I have printed them for him and will snail-mail.

• If you have further items, I'm sure this is easier than faxing to Gordon and is no trouble for me.

I will leave it to Gordon to answer the rest of your email.

Yours in our Lord Jesus.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Fri, 13 Feb, 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for the scans of AGB's letters re Stow Hill which Jeff has already acknowledged.

Yes, it would seem that it is the same Timothy Stunt. Compare the listing for him on 'Site News: Bibles and Books'.

• From earlier contacts I'm sure Timothy would be glad to hear from you re the Albury church.

• If you contact him I would appreciate copies of emails which might be useful on MB.

I'm glad to have your confirmation as to George Rogers' work. I've heard from Edwin Rogers and will be in touch with him after Jeff and I have opportunity to consider what we might be able to do.

• If we go ahead and you have any time available from your own projects Edwin would likely appreciate any asistance in scanning.

• Check the Mailbox for future developments.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 7 Apr, 2004

Dear Brother,
I would say that I generally agree with what is in the booklets I am sending to you though there are a few things I would not entirely agree with.

• Whether you consider this material is something you would want to put on your website is of course entirely up to you and Gordon.

• From my point of view, even if you do not think it profitable to put the material on the website, I think it well that the material should be kept for future reference if needed.

• What will happen to my stock of books if I leave this scene before the Lord comes I do not know.

• I mention all this partly because I do not wish you or Gordon to think that I shall be offended if the material I am sending is not published on the website.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon

To: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, 12 Apr 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for your continuing input. We do not know just yet what we will be putting up on the website, but will let you know.

• I have not had the opportunity, with business pressures and family responsibilities, to read much lately myself.

• And we enjoyed our visitors from Lancing, by the way – nice to meet a few with whom we can share in a little more detail.

I understand how you feel about your books. I don't know how I can help. I seem to be the recipient of a growing collection of books and correspondence myself.

• If you would like to consider me, I am willing to care for them. On my last visit to Toronto I took home seven big boxes of Gordon's own books and correspondence!

• There's also KBT or John Ryland's University Library that may accept papers and such. Are you familiar with this? http://rylibweb.man.ac.uk/data2/spcoll/cba/.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Fri, 11 Jun 2004

Dear Gordon,
I have been looking through my correspondence back in the 1970's and found some things that may be of interest to you.

I made a few notes in April 1978 on various matters, in particular regarding the 1959 London meetings with Mr. G.´R. Cowell when Mr. J. Taylor Jnr. spoke rudely and contradicted him.

• I was not at the meetings myself – work commitments I think were the reason, though I recollect that I had a sense that the meetings would not be to my liking.

• However my Mother remarked having attended the meetings "You did not miss much".

• My Uncle, Frank Webber – who was staying with us for the meetings – said of Mr. Taylor, "His spirit was not right" and "He seemed like a man from whom the effects of whisky were wearing off". My Uncle would know about that sort of thing as he was not averse to drinking alcoholic liquors in moderation himself.

• Miss A. M. Harding – author of hymn no. 4 in the 1932 [and 1973] book – who had sat close to but opposite the platform at the meetings, said in our house at the time that she was most upset by Mr. Taylor's behaviour and the look on his face. Although I did not make a written note at the time she said on one occasion something to the effect that she thought the brethren were like vicars of Bray the way they abandoned Mr. Cowell and jumped on the Taylor bandwagon.

• The 1959 meetings were of some significance inasmuch as they marked a turn for the worse amongst Brethren.

As to events in 1970 my own brother who attended meetings at Bromley, Kent with Mr. Taylor – he lived there – said to me that the behaviour of Mr. Taylor at the meetings was not all that much better than that subsequently at Aberdeen.

• Laurie Twinam rather confirmed this in a letter to me in December 1971 when he mentioned reports of Mr. Taylor's corrupt behaviour at Bromley after he himself had been cast out.

One has noticed that those leaving the Exclusives today and in the recent past tend to assume that Brethren have been always pretty much what they are today and blame Mr. Darby for their present state.

• Using similar arguments one could make out that the state of the Church publicly today is due to the teaching of Christ and his apostles! A blasphemous suggestion.

• Further those without often equate all Brethren with the Jim Taylorite Exclusives and avoid them like the plague.

• The changes amongst Exclusives during the last half century generally means that those who left the Taylorites in the 50's, 60's and early 70's are much more likely to be in line with the Exclusives as they were in the first half of the 20th century than the so-called Taylor/Symington/Hales fellowship today.

• In a meeting of that fellowship not far from here they have a security camera in the building photographing anyone entering!

As to the reason for the exclusion of Mr. A. J. Gardiner from fellowship: I understood that this was because, although he recognised the leadership of Mr. J. Taylor Jnr., he did not recognise that of Mr. J. H. Symington.

I think one good service that you are doing is showing that the ministry of the Brethren was not limited to less than half a dozen successional leaders.

• Ever since I can remember I was told that the succession was J.N.D, J.B.S, F.E.R and then J.T.

• In this connection a perusal of the dates at which the foregoing went to be with the Lord indicates that there must have been a substantial overlap in the ministry of Mr. Stoney and Mr. Raven as Mr. Raven only survived Mr. Stoney by about six years.

• Mr. Coates cannot be brought into the list as he predeceased Mr. Taylor.

• Although the leaders I have mentioned were very prominent they would no doubt have repudiated any idea that they were 'the leader' at any time. I would have no difficulty in producing quotes to support this.

I have, incidentally, a couple of one sheet papers which Mr. Cowell sent me in 1961.

1. One is a paper dated 26/10/60 headed "present exercises" and deals with spurious separation – Mr. Cowell's description.

2. The other is headed "Extracts from a letter dated 6/10/58" and deals with Mr. Cowell's thoughts on associations. At the time of writing to me Mr. Cowell said there had been no material change in his outlook since he wrote the letter.

I trust that all is well with yourselves and families.

Every blessing in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, 14 Jun 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thanks indeed for the interesting information re 1959 meetings, AJG, etc. We'll be posting some extracts in the apropriates pages of MB shortly.

Your observation "that those leaving the Exclusives today and in the recent past tend to assume that Brethren have been always pretty much what they are today and blame Mr. Darby for their present state" is sadly true.

• No doubt it is because they have grown up in almost complete ignorance of their own earlier history.

• The notorious press reports of the legal sect have drawn attention away from the scattered few – in various parts and groupings – who still seek to walk according to the good teaching of former years.

• Our hope and prayer is that 'My Brethren' will enlighten many as to the true character of the testimony for which 'brethren' were once widely known.

The items by GRC sound of interest and I understand Jeff will contact you as to these.

We certainly appreciate your brotherly help and diligence in providing so many background papers, which I have reviewed carefully.

• I hope we will still hear from you from time to time and count on your continued prayerful interest in the work of MB.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, 14 Jun, 2004

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for the information, I appreciate the anecdotes and find them very interesting.

I think you're right about the blame laid on JND for later developments among the brethren –

• it seems to me this blame is many times an attempt to minimize or shirk individual responsibility for maintaining the truth.

The links between JND, spiritual men, and others of infamy were of a historical nature and not a spiritual one, I'm quite sure.

• What is spiritual and alive is what counts, not merely homogeneity or orthodoxy – I think FER pointed this out.

• I quite agree that any idea of a single leader would have been deplorable to the spiritual men you mentioned and if not contrary to what they themselves ministered.

I would be very interested to see the papers from Mr. Cowell, if you get the opportunity to send them.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Sat, 14 Aug 2004

Dear Gordon,
I thought you would appreciate me sending you a line as we have recently received an email from a 17 year old Great Granddaughter of the Bert Slegg I mentioned in an email I sent to you under the date 26 January 2004.

• It appears that the young lady inserted the words "slegg" and "exclusive brethren" into a search engine which took her to your web site.

• After ploughing through the letters on the site she found the reference to Bert Slegg and also my email address and from that contacted us.

• She told us that Bert Slegg went to be with the Lord about four or five years ago and at the time he was attending the Merstham Baptist Church.

• Your web site has been of use in this case and my wife was very pleased to make the contact, particularly as she has since received a photo of her half sister when 14 who is still amongst the Taylorites and now in her mid thirties. My wife has never seen her since she was an infant.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Sat, 14 Aug 2004

Dear Gordon,
Yes we very much appreciated your note. It is encouraging to know the site is of some value to others.

• We are very glad and humbled by the surprising information that comes through and the stories we occasionally receive.

With love in our Lord Jesus.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 25 Aug 2004

Dear Gordon,
It's my turn to pass on some interesting information.

On Mon, 26 Jan 2004 you wrote "I feel that one would have to be careful as to the ministry that came out after Mr. Coates went to be with the Lord. We have not got his spiritual judgement upon it".

• I assume, correctly I hope, that this refers particularly to ministry as to prayer and worship to the Holy Spirit and to God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

• While CAC's judgment would always be of value we should not overlook that of other spiritual brethren.

But, while it is only general, we do have CAC's judgement on what was to come. See his – perhaps 'prophetic' statement – in 1943, just 2 years before the Lord took him, in Volume 25: 64-5, Outlines of the Epistles of Paul to the Corinthians.

• C.A.C. What follows the Supper is a spiritual matter. The Supper is a material act and a matter of obligation for each saint. But after eating the Supper there is surely to be some result Christward and Godward. He does not enter into that, because the recognition of the Spirit and His operations was a necessity before that could be entered upon. It is a matter of spiritual discernment. When brethren began to break bread about 110 years ago, they had not the slightest idea of the prescribed order, and we have still to learn; we have not reached finality as to the prescribed order of the assembly.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Sat, 28 Aug 2004

Dear Gordon,
Many thanks for your E-mail. Before writing on the subjects you have written about I would mention as a matter of interest, with reference to my recent e-mail telling of the contact we have had with a relative of my wife Marian, that

• the young lady was staying with her Uncle Mark Ghinn at the time and that this no doubt led him to look at your web site.

• Incidentally, Joe Ghinn who was local with me at Beckenham in Kent, and I think also Ernest Ghinn, died relatively young. I have at the back of my mind that it was due to heart problems. I mention this as Mark Ghinn said he never knew his Grandfather.

Incidentally, my Mother told me that it was Mr. Gardiner's father she visited to ask for fellowship.

• I gathered that he was externally a somewhat formidable figure and some thought my Mother very brave in going to visit him. However she effectively said he was gentle with her and led her into his house by the hand.

I noticed you have received an e-mail asking about Dr. W.Cosham of Bristol. I think I may be able to get some information from a relative of mine. If so, I will pass it on to your correspondent.

As to Mr Coates, I was sympathetic with what you put on your web site, effectively qualifying what I said in my e-mail which you quote.

• Taken to an extreme it would hardly be possible to introduce any fresh thoughts on doctrine after Mr. Coates had gone to be with the Lord if what I said were taken in an unqualified way.

• I thought I had by simply using the word 'careful' covered the point that Mr Coates' thoughts were not a final court of appeal. I doubt that we are far apart, if at all, on the point.

• That I particularly had the teaching you refer to in my mind is correct.

As to other spiritual brethren, I do know that Fred Hemmings – my uncle by marriage, went to be with the Lord on 21 November 1954 – had doubts about the ministry.

• He had a text on his wall taken from 1 Corinthians 8: 6. He indicated to me that it was because of some of the things being said in ministry that he had the text made.

• I have always had the thought that the Lord took him when he did because he had a mental weakness which had resulted in a nervous breakdown and he was probably not able to stand up to conflict.

There is also the question of Mr. Cowell. … After Mr. Cowell was withdrawn from he on one occasion stayed with the Angus's in Northern Ireland which I doubt he would have done had he been taking a strong pro line in connection with the ministry as to addressing the Spirit, as the Angus's, both now with the Lord, did not accept it.

• I have not to date read much of Mr. Cowell's ministry, save the two pieces he sent me himself: The Mystery of Piety and the present conflict; The Gospel and the Church.

• I have no wish to denigrate Mr. Cowell, but we all have our weaknesses. Mr Taylor Senior thought well of him as he said in one of his letters.

• To my mind it is not unimportant that many of the leaders, such as Mr. Gardiner and Mr. Hammond who supported the ministry and later backed Mr. Taylor Junior eventually found themselves in trouble.

As to the volume of ministry of Mr. Coates from which you quote I have a copy, though it appears that I have probably not actually read it, as I always underline passages that impress me or which I wish to note and I cannot trace any underlinings in the volume on the Corinthian epistles. I thought I had read all the volumes of Mr. Coates ministry that are in my hands.

• As you indicate, Mr Coates says we have still to learn as to the service "Christward and Godward". However, there is nothing in the reading that would suggest that the Holy Spirit should be worshipped though the service should be carried on in his power.

• I doubt it would be possible to prove that what Mr. Coates says is prophetic of teaching that came out after he had gone to be with the Lord.

• The question is: 'Was the subsequent teaching, of the Spirit and according to Scripture?'

• As well as the papers in your hands I also produced some dialogues on the teaching as to addressing the Spirit and subsequent ministry. I can let you have a copy if you wish though because of the format it would be difficult to send over the Internet. It would be much easier to send it by snail mail.

I note, as I expect you have, that Mr. Coates refers to the Supper as a matter of obligation.

• However, the papers you have in your hands indicate our past leaders regarded the Supper as a matter of privilege rather than obligation.

• In practice, until at least the middle of the last century, persons were not pressurised to break bread. Young people and interested persons were allowed to come to the occasion of the Supper without partaking of the elements.

• In fact, I understand, that at one time young Sisters were warned that by coming amongst Brethren they might find that that they had to forgo marriage, presumably because there were more young Sisters than Brothers.

• Rather than pressurise Christians into fellowship the difficulties were put before them as in Ruth chapter 1. This was in contrast to the Gospel where the presentation was on the lines of 2 Corinthians 5: 11.

• Personally, when I asked for fellowship in the breaking of bread I took the ground that I should be obedient to the Lord's commandment.

• I don't think the brothers to whom I spoke thought that was the right way to view the matter and subsequently, mainly as a result of reading JND and JT I came to the conclusion that one should view it as a request rather than a commandment.

I do note that the volume of Mr. Coates ministry to which you refer is described as Outlines, though in fact it appears to be mainly readings.

• One wonders if the papers were edited by Mr. Coates in the same way that the earlier publications were. The questions and comments of others appear in this publication as well as what Mr.Coates said.

I trust that you will find the above information helpful.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 3 Nov 2004

Dear Brother,
I set out below (with a small omission) a copy of a piece I wrote recently and sent to Dave MacPherson about what I suppose is his latest book titled 'The Rapture Plot'.

• I sent a copy to Timothy Stunt who from his reply seemed favourably impressed with what I said.

• I am really sending it to you as Gordon Rainbow has something on your site about Dave MacPherson. I did not read the latter until after I had composed my letter and dispatched it to Dave MacPherson. However, it does not look to me as if my thinking differs much from that of Gordon.

The balance of this letter is in Guests: My Answer 2: The Powerscourt Meetings and Dave MacPherson's Writings

Greetings in Christ, Gordon Simmonds.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Thu, 4 Nov 004

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for the copy of your letter to Mr. MacPherson. I think there would be no disagreement over its contents with Gordon or myself. I appreciate many of your points and especially the brotherly tone.

• Due to the the investment of time and energy and the convictions one must have to produce a book like 'The Rapture Plot', it probably guarantees that your thoughts will go unheeded.

• But it could be a help to others who read, perhaps to gain some understanding how attempts to discredit the truth can work through connecting it with the unprincipled or even demons, as you pointed out – but that seems, however accepted by 'scholars' to be the very weakest way of attempting to prove something wrong.

• And, as you say, how dangerous it is to dogmatise a speculation. I think much blessing is missed out on for this reason.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, 28 Nov 2005

Dear Brother,
Just a quick note to say that I appreciate your putting the closing ministry of J.Pellatt on the web site. From comments my Father once made I gathered that he had a very good opinion of Mr. Pellatt's ministry.

Personally I only have the first volume of his ministry, which is what is now on the web site.

I notice that some of the addresses have the word abridged against them. I take it that this means that what has been put on the web site has been abridged and not that the original published ministry was abridged, though I do see that in some places in the book rows of dots appear from time to time which I assume is to indicate that something is omitted.

One continues to think of your work in prayer and otherwise, and trust that the Lord may be pleased to prosper it.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon Simmonds.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Tue, 12 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon,
Regarding the extract from FER's letters I set out below such information as I have. I do not of course regard what FER says as the last word on the subject, though I think highly of FER's ministry and I would give a good deal of weight to what he thought. The Scriptures (the word of God) are of course the final court of appeal.

"TRUE COPY of page 10 of original edition of F.E.R.'s "LETTERS". The letter of 3/8/92 has been omitted from the new edition in spite of the statement in the Foreword. It should go on page 69 of the new book.

EXTRACTS OF LETTERS FROM F.E.R.

… between the kingdom and the house. The assembly is Christ's, and He gives the keys of the kingdom shewing that He is supreme in it. Peter was a stone for the assembly, and received the keys of the kingdom — but the assembly is a structure of a new kind (built), and the kingdom regards us individually. We come in by the word; we come into the order that rules in the kingdom.

__________
3, 8, '92.
In regard to the point that you mention, I have not said more than what I have said to you. I think the Spirit indwelling the individual Christian is an entirely distinct thought from the Spirit in the house, but I judge that the presence of the Spirit cannot be objective in its character (like Christ), or He would necessarily be an object of worship.

____________
5, 10, '92,
The questions which you have heard raised are not very formidable ones. As regards my having said that Christ died to law — I have heard it said ever since I came into fellowship — Christ was made under law. He bore the curse in being hanged on a tree, and by death He passed out of its application and curse, and in …

The above extract is from a faded photocopy of what was passed to me by, I think, Algy Aris (possibly Arthur Brown). I think I have copied it accurately. I admitted inadvertently the word "what" when writing to Daniel though it does not alter the sense. The first letter above is on page 68 of the New Series.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 21 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon, Thanks very much for the page copy of FER old letters. It's hard to understand why the omission was made. The year that the new series was issued, and who was in charge of reprints at Stow Hill, might have some bearing. [the omitted item has been now added to the Introduction to Ministry: J. Taylor.]

By the way, do you have a photo of Arthur Brown for inclusion with his articles on MB? If so a jpg would be appreciated.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 21 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon,
Sometime ago now, I looked through my photo albums to see if I had a photo of Arthur Brown but failed to find one. I don't recollect ever taking one. I wrote to David Angus of Donaghadee, Northern Ireland, but he had not one either though the Angus's had a good deal to do with Arthur Brown.

One of Mr. Browns children lived in the Marlborough region, not far from here. However, the telephone book showed that there were a lot of Browns in the area. I baulked at the thought of trying all the telephone numbers! Besides I thought, if the Brown was a daughter, she could well be married and her surname might be different. In any case the person concerned might well have moved. To cut a long story short I drew a blank and I have no one else in mind that I could contact. I know that one of Arthur Brown's daughters was married and lived in South Africa.

I have incidentally a photograph of Algy Aris when he was 98, so if you ever wish to have one of him I can provide one.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 21 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for checking, Yes, it would be good to have a photo of Algy Aris on file.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Thu, 29 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon,
I have located a letter from Algy Aris dated 16/6/69 in which, among other things, he mentions the omission we have been speaking about.

• He comments that the piece was also omitted from F.E.R's letters at the end of New Series Vol. 3 (page 284). The preface there speaks of most of the valuable "Extracts from Letters of F.E.Raven".

• Who was responsible for the omission Algy does not say, though he does give reason for thinking that Jim Taylor was responsible for some omissions from the published letters of Mr. Taylor Senior.

• However, it may be noted that Mr. Taylor Senior did write: "Any fresh light since J.N.D.'s time has been tested by his ministry and the comparison has helped rather than hindered." (Letters Vol.2 page 406). You may see some relevance in this comment to the matter you are considering.

I could send you a photocopy of Algy Aris's letter if you would like to have it. I see no objection as Algy and his wife are now with the Lord. Matthew 17: 9 has some relevance to the release of confidential information I think.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon (Simmonds).

To: Gordon Simmonds
Sar, 31 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon,
Yes, I would appreciate a copy of the letter of Algy Aris. Thanks for your comments which are always of interest and help.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Fri, 6 Jan 2006

Dear Gordon,
My wife at one time took a lot of slide photos. I had a look through some of these recently which were classified as Home and Family and came across a group photo containing Arthur Brown. I obtained a couple of prints of it and scanned one in to my computer and am attaching it for what it may be worth to this E-mail. The photo I think was taken by my wife in the Pittock's garden. I think the picture may be the wrong way round, but I am not certain.

The persons in the picture at the rear are left to right: Margery Hawgood, Joyce Hawgood, Cyril Pittock and Arthur Brown. In the front row are: Ken Pittock, myself, Mrs Pittock (Betty) holding my oldest boy (Mark) and Mrs Brown. Ken Pittock is the Pittock's youngest boy and he now lives in Lincoln. His older brothers, John and David are still with the Jims. Ken has had some contact with them in the last few years. There is a certain marriage link between ourselves and the Pittocks, because John Pittock married the daughter of my wife's stepfather, Bert Slegg. All the older ones in the picture are now with the Lord.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, 9 Jan 2006

Dear Gordon,
Many thanks for the group photo. Jeff has managed to extract the Browns and yourself which will be going on MB.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Sun. 24 Dec, 2006

Dear Jeff,

Parts of this letter are not shown here but appear in Guests: My Stand 6: Peebs.Net: Objectives.

As I expect you know, I put some criticisms regarding the E.B. website on the Peebs.Net website in August 2005. The words "Status: To be Forwarded" still appear even after such a long time interval.

• Some of the criticisms are now out of date and I sent Peebs.Net some further comments to cover the changes and additions that have been made to the site. I sent these to Peebs.Net, but had no response to my E-mail or my follow up one.

• Because of this I have put my comments on another website; _www.gordonwsimm.net_ (http://www.gordonwsimm.net).

• They have only been there for a few days and there are unresolved problems. However the comments can be read using Firefox.

• I have sought to avoid making sarcastic comments which ould boost spiritual pride by making people think they are being persecuted for the name of Christ.

• I have rather sought to show that Exclusives have departed from the fundamentals that JND and others espoused, effectively saying they are apostate. This will minister to no ones pride.

• Exclusives like to think they are the main line going through - that they are maintaining the teachings of JND and other leading men among the Brethren. Attacking these teachings will only divert attention from the aberrations of the Exclusives at the present time.

• The enemy is out to discredit the whole idea of separation from iniquity by driving people to such an excess as to make others give it up altogether.

• I hope I would not enjoy exposing people (see for instance Genesis 9:18-29).

• I have refrained from actually putting details of the Exclusives aberrations on the web in view of 2 Samuel 1:20. The things are something to mourn over; not gloat over. Those that would gloat have not really got a judgement of the evil in their own hearts.

• It was brought home to me recently when I was in a home with a man who had been in prison for arson, another who had been in prison for the attempted murder of his wife and yet another who had been in prison for what is called paedophilia.I believe they had all judged themselves and got right with God.

• The uncircumcised in the present day would be those who have not judged the evil of their own hearts (Deuteronomy 10:16; 30:6; Jeremiah 4:4; Romans 2:28/29).,/ul.

  I fear that the Peebs.Net team are throwing out the baby with the bathwater (the truth with the error) as I often expected many would do.

• Darby and others would never have dreamed of claiming they were the assembly. That idea is a modern aberration and would never have been endorsed by the leaders in the 1800's.

• However, it is just as wrong to teach that it does not matter what church fellowship we are connected with. If a person denies that we should separate from this present evil world then he is clearly at variance with Scripture (Galatians 1:4; James 4:4; 1 John 2:15).

• On the positive side Peebs.Net seem to be doing a good job inasmuch as they enable ex E.B.'s to come into contact with one another again after being many years apart. I made such a contact recently with a guest on Peebs.Net.

On another subject I have got a copy of "Goodbye, Beloved Brethren" and would be happy to lend it to anyone seriously interested in the history. I have my doubts as to some of the things said in it, but I think it is generally factual.

• I would agree that we don't want to get over-occupied with the evil. On the other hand it is wrong to sweep it under the carpet and forget about it. Scripture gives both sides as is evident from I think every book in the Bible.

• I find JND said: "There is danger of being too much occupied with evil. It does not refresh, does not help the soul on".

I have problems with my computer which keeps freezing and crashing. This makes writing E-mails take rather longer than usual.

If I can be of help in any way please let me know.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon Simmonds.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Sat 27 Jan, 2007

Dear Jeff and Gordon,
Just a note to say that I read the bulletin on Dan this morning – something of a shock. I will be thinking of Dan and the family in prayer, and would be glad if you would convey my sympathy to the family when you have opportunity.

I know Dan was looking forward to visiting this country later this year. I trust he will have sufficient good health by then to be able to do so.

We have not been without health problems in our family. My eldest Son has been having blood clotting problems and within the last couple of years has had a stroke and later a blood clot on a lung, both of which could have been fatal. However, the Lord has preserved him thus far. My Spina Bifida daughter is at present in Winchester hospital with very serious stomach problems. Your prayers for our family would be appreciated.

I am writing to you rather than Daniel as I am uncertain whether E-mails from me using his address will reach him at the present time.

Yours in Christ, Gordon Simmonds.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 29 Aug. 2007

Dear Jeff,
I thought I should let you know that our Debbie had her 40th birthday on the 27th of July. All our family were together and we were able to take a number of family photos. However, a few days later Debbie became seriously ill and on Thursday morning the 2nd of August she passed away.

• Debbie was quite peaceful near the end. She realised she would not live for much longer and made her wishes known for her funeral, etc. Debbie as you know was our daughter with Spina Bifida. Many were surprised that she lived as long as she did.

She was buried at a little cemetery which is within easy walking distance from us on the 13th of August. There was a simple service round the grave and our Jonathan took the lead. About 30 were present - relatives, neighbours, carers and friends …

I would take this opportunity of saying that I appreciate the fact that you have been putting ministry of a variety of brothers on your web site.

• It helps to negate the idea of the E.B 's that all recovered truth came down through a line of accredited successional leaders; a line of thinking also purveyed by the Peebs. net people, though with the opposite intention, that is, of discrediting the recovered truth! I think you will get my thinking on this matter.

• Not having a visible leader on earth is one of the marks that distinguished Brethren from the so-called cults …

Every blessing in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Sat, 29 August 2007

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for letting us know of your loss. It's difficult to imagine how it must feel to lose one's daughter. Our sympathy is with all of you and our hope is that your family is encouraged that Debbie is now with Christ and finally unchained from her disability, and even more, the condition from which all of us suffer in common. Debbie's new freedom is truly exciting to imagine!

Thank you also for your kind encouragement.

Yours affectionately in Him, Jeff.

From: Gordon Simmonds - Re Frances Kenney
Tue, 26 May 2009

Dear Gordon,
I don't think I can really help your enquirer. I understand that some of my Mother's siblings were baptised by Mr Raven, but I do not know which ones. My Mother herself was baptised by Edward McBride.

• I understand that in those days it was usual to have a well known Brother to perform a baptism.

• My Mother had a Sister born in 1891, a Brother in 1892 and another Sister in 1893. Their family name was Mounter. As the one born in 1892 was a Brother and not a Sister it is virtually certain that it was not my Mother's family that Frances is referring to.

I have other relatives who lived in Malvern in the 1940's and 1950's but I doubt they could go back very far as they were not brought up in that area. If you obtain any more information than you have at present perhaps I might be able to pursue the matter further.

I trust that you and your wife are keeping well. My youngest Son and his family have earlier this month moved to Canada (Prince Edward Island). His wife is Canadian and came from Durham, Ontario.

In the Lord, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Tue, 26 May 2009

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for reply. I will be sending further information in any case but no need to reply.

Interesting about your son and family. Durham is next door to us.

We keep reasonably well. I now use a power chair to get around the building.

Always glad to hear from you and trust you all also keep well.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 11 Nov 2009

Dear Gordon,
I noticed from a letter on your web site that today is your 80th Birthday. It reminded me of the Scripture that says

• "And Moses was 80 years old, and Aaron was 83 years old, when they spoke to Pharaoh", Exodus 7: 7.

• Moses had only just started his work for the Lord. Most of us have retired by that age !

Very best wishes, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 11 Nov 2009

Dear Gordon, Thanks very much. I certainly am not in the same condition as Moses at 80! Yes, I am ready to retire but there is still much to do and the labourers few.

You must be getting on yourself! Always good to hear from you.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 25 Nov 2010

Dear Gordon,
Just a short note to let you know that I normally look at your web site at least once a week (often more frequently) and read the pieces of ministry that you put on the site from time to time.

• The thing I particularly like about the site is that it demonstrates that ministry did not just come through a few leaders as the E.B. and peebs.net sites would lead anyone to think. The former boosting the persons and the latter seeking to discredit them all.

Greetings in Christ, Gordon.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Wed, 25 Nov 2010

Dear Gordon,
Always good to hear from old friends. Thanks for your comments on the ministry on MB "that it demonstrates that ministry did not just come through a few leaders"-- something that I have been very impressed with.

• And in fact, the letters of those more prominent recognize and appreciate their fellow-servants. The present day detractors and boosters alike only promote their own self interest.

Trust you are all keeping well in the mercy of our God.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Gordon Simmonds
Fri, Feb 10, 2012

Dear Jeff,
I have just read the recent correspondence with Laurens Overduin concerning baptism. You may know already, but in case you don't, John Bunyan, though a Baptist, was opposed to making views as to it a test of fellowship. He wrote a tract about it in reply to a Baptist one and it can be found at the time of writing on the following web site:

http://www.chapellibrary.org/johnbunyan/text/bun-baptism.pdf

The title of the article is: "Differences in judgment about water baptism, no bar to communion".

I trust that you, your family and Gordon and his wife are keeping well and send Christian greetings. Gordon Simmonds.

To: Gordon Simmonds
Mon, Feb 13, 2012

Dear Gordon,
Always good to hear from you. Jeff forwarded your email for me to reply. He has just, after many trials, started a new job and is moving to another city.

The quote from Bunyan is very interesting. It is refreshing to see one so free of sectarianism.

I am still doing most of the work on MB and look for Jeff being free soon to resume his duties as editor. Pray for us.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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