Mailbox: GHI: Nov. 1998 – present

Dan Haley

From: Dan Haley
danhaleyATbellnet.ca
Peterborough, Ontario (formerly of Burlington)
Sun, 12 Sep 1999

Hello Gordon
I just received a letter from the Salvation Army. They were looking for me for my mother. So I phoned her and found out that my father Ron Haley had died in May.

• I also learned that my brother Fred had been withdrawn from and she has no idea where he is. I'm trying to find him. I've called many Haley's in the phone book but so far no luck.

I lost your phone number and your email. My computer crashed so I had to start all over. I been really busy with my work and, of course, my volunteer work. God has been good to me. How are you and Betty doing I would still like to meet with you.

Blessings, Dan.

Dan Haley, 210 Collison Cr, Peterborough, Ont, K9J 1A8
www.ptbochaplaincy.org – 705-742-0513 fax 705-741-4172

To: Dan Haley
Mon, 13 Sep 1999

Dear Dan,
So good to hear from you again, but what sad news! We can be thankful though that Eva did contact you.

• Ron and Eva and you kids were good friends. If you are in touch with Eva again please tell her we have not forgotten the many happy times together.

• May the Lord grant help in locating Fred.

We certainly will be glad to see you when you can get to Toronto. Give us a call whenever it's convenient.

With love in the Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

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From: Elaine Hanley
bobedhanATlocalnet.com
Blooming Glen PA, USA
Fri, 23 Dec 2005

Dear Gordon and Betty,
I wrote message few days ago with fellowship question. I may have come across as blunt. If that is the case, I apologize.

• I have been burdened over this because I know disunity and division in Christ's body accept for reasons of immorality, apostasy, heresy, grieves the Holy Spirit.
  • (I am younger sister of Ted Fry.)

• After spending 17 years in Taylor group where young persons were supposed to break bread or be subjected to criticism, belittled etc., I do find being forced to 'sit back' – visitor situation – i.e. not allowed to partake is so very offensive. Not that I or my husband are personally offended but the Holy Spirit is grieved.

• I would be tempted to bring plastic yellow roll of 'Caution' tape to rope us from the group.

Let me relate an incident when we were not allowed to partake.

• When the bread was being passed, a brother got up to make sure we did not touch the tray. Also, when the cup was being passed, we were not to touch it.

• However, when the offering basket was passed around, they passed it to us. I guess they were hoping for a handout. Absolutely disgusting, revolting!!!

I was delighted to find The Man in the Glory poem on your site. I was had a copy which I offered to a friend. When I asked him about it, he seemed not to even recall the poem. Anyway, it is a great poem and I was glad to find and read it.

When young we were not supposed to say 'Merry Christmas' because you're attaching Christ's name to all the commercialism of the season. I'll say 'Merry Christmas' because atheist groups are attacking freedoms we value.

1 Thess 4: 16-18 is exhilarating, the blessed hope. Titus 2: 12-13 is what we look forward to.

Love, Elaine.

To: Elaine Hanley
Fri, 23 Dec 2005

Dear Elaine,
Thank you for writing. I didn't realize that you knew Gordon and Betty and I have sent your message on to them. I expect you will hear from them shortly!

I did not take your question as blunt. It's a good question. In fact, I understand why you are burdened by it and why refusal to break bread with someone might not seem to make sense at first.

• I will do my best to explain, keeping in mind that it is a difficult subject for an e-mail to sufficiently cover the question thoroughly.

• I think your difficulty may come from your understanding of the ground of fellowship which, from my understanding, is not love for the brethren.

That one would not receive any true child of God, as you put it, is perhaps an oversimplification of the problem.

• Scriptures such as Romans 15: 7 and 1 John 4: 7-21 give us very important standards which apply at all times.

• I feel we have fellowship with every believer to some degree and are responsible for maintaining the best relations we can at all times and as much as depends on us. We know that we ought to love to every child of God, but the question is, how we express love.
  • 1 John 5: 2 says, "Hereby know we that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep his commandments".

• It is God's name and rights which come first. This suggests the possibility of a situation where what God requires and what our brethren perceive as love may be two completely different things.

We have to recognize that things in Christianity are not what they once were, as you know firsthand.

• So if we understand the public church to be in a state of division and confusion – of which God is not the author – our ability to walk with some who go along with the disorder is limited by, or modified by, 2 Timothy 2: 19-22.

• It's not that those brethren do not belong to "our group" – in fact, they are indeed recognized as members of the Lord's body – but they are choosing to do their own thing or are ignorant of what is right.

• Obviously, accepting anyone to the breaking of bread on the basis of being sound in doctrine and morals would be an indication that the current conditions of Christendom are not considered either by the person seeking to break bread or the persons "receiving" him, probably both have not.

• So limitations on full fellowship among brethren would include outwardly obvious things such as immorality and heresy, but also those walking disorderly, or those maintaining clerical or sectarian principles, or accepting others who do as if it these were small matters such as being of a different opinion.

• In doing so, they bring Christ into to what they do, make a bad public profession, and promote disorder rather than heal it.

So what choice is there to one who's conscience is struck by the situation?

• If it is only by separating from vessels to dishonor that I can become serviceable as a vessel for the Master's use, then it has nothing whatever to do with the formation of a special membership.

• In fact, it makes revolting the very idea of a sect, to use your words. It has to do with recognizing the body to which God has called us and made us members and walking according to His standard where fellowship can be in full, practical expression.

As for the situation of you, your husband and family having to 'sit back', I don't really have enough information to form an opinion

• but if you did not know what was to happen that day it sounds as if it was handled poorly and why things were not made clear to you beforehand is beyond me. I cannot answer for them.

But viewed from another angle, I think 'sitting back' really ought to make one uncomfortable.

• 'Sitting back' can help me see three things: that I'm in the right place or I'm in the wrong place and that, in either case, I am not right myself.

• If I am in the wrong place it shows I have no business being in that meeting, and if I am in the right place it shows that I need to get right myself. It is not the fact of 'sitting back' that's the problem.

Here are some links to additional articles we have on our website on these subjects. I hope you might find them helpful.

On the Lord's Supper: Ministry: J. Pellatt and Studies: The Lord's Supper
On Fellowship: Doctrine: Fellowship
On the public ruin: Doctrine: The Public Ruin of the Church

Again, please don't hesitate to write for clarification if you feel I was not clear, or want to discuss anything I've said. I do look forward to hearing from you again if you have the time!

Yours in our Lord Jesus,.

From: Elaine Hanley
Fri, 23 Dec 2005

Dear Brother:
Separating oneself for biblical reasons:

1. immorality
2. heresy
3. apostasy
4. disorderly conduct.

If these problems are not an issue, then separating myself from other believers in refusing fellowship/breaking bread makes me guilty of causing division that God says is an abomination. See Proverbs 6: 19.

• What good is it to be a vessel honor, servicable for Lord to use, if I'm guilty of causing division which is an abomination to the Lord?

• When I refuse fellowship with a genuine born again person who is also filled with Holy Spirit, then I grieve the Holy Spirit which I am told not to do. Ephesians 4: 30.

I hope I'm mistaken, but I have wondered about all this separation, maintaining purity, etc.

• People who are overzealous about separating themselves from other Christians' possible sins', i.e. speculating there could be an sin issue, are actually committing other sin, causing division, plus imagining sin issues that might not even exist.

• I could be very wrong, but perhaps Plymouth Brethren groups have caused more grief, sorrow, division, confusion, ruin in Christ's body than any other group.

Christ wants His people to keep separate from evil and the world, while keeping unity in the bond of peace.

• Closed groups and believers obsessed with separation are destroying unity in the Lord's body. They should study 1 John again.

Elaine.

To: Elaine Hanley
Sat, 24 Dec 2005 [before seeing Elaine;s Dec. 23 e-mail above]

Dear Elaine,
Betty and I were quite puzzled as to who you might be, but only because at first I missed your remark "I am younger sister of Ted Fry". Perhaps you have already seen correspondence with Ted in our Mailbox.

Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren' and sharing your concerns as to fellowship. After your experience in the JTJr group – and apparently in some other recent situations – your feelings are quite understandable.

• Our reply covered the situation from a scriptural standpoint very well. I might just add that the whole question of fellowship really began long before 1959 and refer you to another few items on MB – see below.

• Some of these matters are more easily discussed on the phone and, if that suits you, we will be happy to call if you let us know us your number and some convenient times.

• In any case we would be glad to have a chat with you so that we could share some experiences together.

References:
My Answer 1: Who may break Bread?
My Answer 2: Open/Closed
and particularly to Mr. Coates' comments:
Ministry: CAC: Present Conditions in the Christian Profession

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty Rainbow.

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Glenn Haman

To: Glenn Haman
Glenn_hamanATyahoo.com
Centreville, VA
Mon, 20 May, 2003

Dear Glenn,
It is impossible to give a brief definitive answer, especially in view of WN's denial, but let me share what I understand.

• My reply may seem overlong for what appears to be a simple question, but it is well worthwhile – to me at least –to examine the matter thoroughly.

The balance of this letter is in Guests: My Answer 4: One-City-One-Church

I trust that the above has not wearied you and may be of some interest and value.

• It would be good to hear further from you, as to your own background and the reason for your research.

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Glenn Haman
Sat, 03 Dec 2005

Concerning the China Episode I would like to obtain a copy of the final letter from the brethren in Shanghai addressed to the brethren in London that was dated July 2nd, 1935. I used to have a copy of that letter, but cannot locate it now.

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Beth Hargreaves

To: Beth Hargreaves
kenbethATihug.com.au
Birkdale, 4159, Queensland, Australia
Tue, 18 Feb 2003

Dear Beth,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I hope you will return from time to time and enjoy the good ministry of earlier, better, years.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I sympathize with you in the sufferings you and your family have gone through.

• But far better is the Lord's own sympathy which brings healing to the soul.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Luke Harris

From: Luke Harris
newjerusalem12ATyahoo.com
Arlington, TX, USA
Sat, 1 Jun 2002

Praise the Lord! Brother Gordon,
I found this site during a search for Miller's Church History and I was pleasantly surprised to find that you have the truth about what it is to be a christian.

• I appreciate very much that you used the Word of God to reinforce the points you made about being a christian.

• In Romans we see that to call upon the name of the Lord is to receive Him; this receiving is for more than just salvation from eternal perdition.

• Have you ever heard of sanctification (Rom 6:19), renewing (Rom 12:2), transformation (Rom 12:2), building (Rom 12:5), conformation (Rom 8:29) and glorification (Rom 8:30)? If you have then you also know the truth of God's complete salvation. If not, I would love to share with you some more of the truth found in God's Word.

The Lord be with your spirit, grace be with you.

Your brother in Christ, Luke Harris.

To: Luke Harris
Sat, 1 Jun 2002

Dear Luke,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thank you for your kind remarks.

Yes, I am quite familiar with, and thankful for, Paul's teaching in Romans and the points to which you refer – except that "building (Rom 12:5)" appears to be an interpretation.

But for "complete salvation" we should surely also include the service of the Holy Spirit, Romans 5: 5 and especially Romans 8: 1-17 for deliverance.

• Then we should also be able to advance from the individual side to the collective side "the revelation of the mystery", Romans 16: 25-27,

• which like "God's glad tidings … concerning his Son", Romans 1: 1-7, is also mad known "for obedience of faith to all the nations".

• This leads us on to Colossians 1: 24-29 and Ephesians 3: 2-11.

I hope you will visit MB again. There is much good ministry but I particularly suggest for your interest:

• Ministry: G. R. Cowell: Early 1: The Gospel of God: What it is, Where it is and Where it Leads,

• Ministry: G. R. Cowell: Early 4: Fundamental Truths of Christianity,

• Ministry: G. R. Cowell: Later 1: The Gospel and the Church.

Thanks again for sharing your thoughts. It is a pleasure to hear from one who sees beyond the popular 'gospel' of mere relief.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Janet Vedder-Hartkopf

To: Janet Vedder-Hartkopf
johnhartkopfATyahoo.com or
Janet_HartkopfATcompusa.com
Chandler, AZ, USA
Mon, 15 Jul 2002

Dear Janet,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I trust you found some interesting items and will visit again.

Does Vedder indicate you are related to my good friend John Vedder of Sierra Vista, NM?

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Janet Hartkopf
Mon, 15 Jul 2002

Dear Gordon,
You are correct. I am John Vedder's niece. My husband and I reside in Chandler, Arizona about three hours north of my uncle.

Your website was extremely informative. I particularly enjoy your Answers section. There is so much about the Brethren I did not know.

My husband and I are both from the assemblies in the Midwest. John is from Mt. Prospect now considered 'Open' and for many years I went to the Kenosha assembly.

• Technically, I spent most of my life under the 'isolated saints' category but that is a whole other can of worms.

Thank you for your contact. We look forward to visiting your website more.

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching", Hebrew 10: 25.

Janet Hartkopf.

To: Janet Hartkopf
Tue, 16 Jul 2002

Dear Janet,
Thanks for your reply and for sharing some personal details.

I was in Kenosha once in the early-mid 1970's and recall a very friendly conversation with EPV, your grandfather.

• I also had contacts in those years with Eugene Jr. –

• and of course with John, who has made some good contributions to MB's Mailbox.

I'm glad you found 'My Answers' of interest. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask.

Your quotation of Hebrews 10: 25, is very appropriate in these days of continued scattering and divisions.

• Perhaps you will be free let us know with whom you presently gather.

Thanks again, and I'll be happy to hear from you at any time.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Elizabeth (Lily) Harvey

To: Elizabeth (Lily) Harvey
LilyHATCompuserve.com
Kenilworth, England
Sat, 01 May 1999

Dear Lily,
Welcome to "My Brethren". Please visit again.

Thank you for sharing. Your message will be in the Guest Book shortly. I trust it will bring some news of your family.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

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David Haslam

To: David Haslam
d.haslamATukonline.co.uk
Stockport, Cheshire, UK
Mon, 04 Dec 2000

Dear David,
I'm glad you discovered 'My Brethren' and hope there is something of interest, and that you will come back again.

Thanks for directing me to 'Christian Devotedness' by A. N. Groves, which I hope to read soon. It is often referred to but I have not seen the text before.

Congratulations on your very extensive, well organized and interesting site, which I hope to revisit as time permits. I would have signed your Guest Book but couldn't locate it.

I am curious as to your remark following the link to STEM Publications: "I was in fellowship at a Brethren meeting in the early 1970s".

• There doesn't seem to be any reference to this in your 'Personal History'. If you are free, I would be interested in any details you might be free to share.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: David Haslam
Mon, 04 Dec 2000

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for your reply. As you asked about more than one point, my comments are below.

Christian Devotedness by A. N. Groves: I trust you will indeed find it spiritually profitable. It first made a big impact on me when I was involved with Operation Mobilisation during my student days.

• Since I put it on-line, it has brought me into contact with Timothy Stunt, whose book is mentioned on your web-site.

Thanks for the kind remarks. I never got round to including a guest book on the site. If one allows comments, then one might have to act as a moderator, and I just don't have the time to look after that aspect.

"… in fellowship at a Brethren meeting in the early 1970s".

That bit is missing – but the details are quite straightforward. [David has asked that the details not be published.]

Best Regards, David F. Haslam.

From: David Haslam
Thu, 13 Feb 2003

Dear Gordon,
Randal Kulp just advised me of the following reprint:

• After some delay, 'Memoirs of the Late Anthony Norris Groves' is now available ($15.00 retail).

• The book is paperback with 446 pages. You should be able to view the cover soon at Amazon.

• It includes the pamphlet Christian Devotedness. ISBN 0965651940.

• Details/discounts are available on
  
  Well of Oath: Publications.

Just thought you'd like to know about it.

With kind regards, David.

From: David Haslam
Thu, 13 Feb 2003

Dear David,
Thanks very much for letting me know about the ANG 'Memoirs' being available. Randal is certainly diligent.

• While I can't agree with the 'ecclesiastical' views and practices of Mr. Groves, his memoirs are certainly of genuine historical interest.

It's good to hear from you again. You are always welcome on MB.

In the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Hawgood

From: Rod Hawgood
rod.hawgoodATgooglemail.com
Belper, Berbyshire, UK
Sat, May 01, 2010

Dear Gordon,
Thank you for your e-mail. From what I have seen so far, I think your website is really great, it feels like coming home!

I would be interested to know where you live/worship and which section of Brethren you belong to (please excuse the question, just interested).

Yes I do indeed still value the truth that has come to us, especially concerning the body of Christ, which is so little understood, and the clergy/laity principle is a denial of this, not lessened when different terms are used, such as pastor/flock.

• I often visit various churches (mainly evangelical) and it distresses me to see the rows of real Christians who only know to sit quietly and listen to the 'professional' at the front, making no contribution except singing, their gifts having not been discovered, encouraged or enabled. Similarly when one who has been allowed to preach etc. moves to another area, his gift is often not recognised or used.

I love and still sing the Brethren hymns, and think the JND poems are absolute classics. When I was last with the Aberdeen/Frost brethren (so-called) they were using the 1973 hymnbook, and it was good to be able to sing some long-lost hymns again (ones that were banned in 1961), though there were some other good ones lost, presumably because of copyright problems, e.g. 'O Lord what love for sinners Thou hast shown', 'The heart of God is love' and 'Now in simple faith Lord Jesus'.

• Do I take it there has since been a 1993 edition which has recovered some of these (I see the latter hymn re-appears as no. 500)?

As to the Taylor system, I believe, as you appear to, that 1959/60 was the main point of departure, though in recent years I have often thought that things must have been going badly wrong for some years before that, for so many brethren to have been taken in by something so false, and to believe that it's advocates were 'men of God'.

• Where was our discernment, where was our knowledge of the real Jesus? It is a sobering consideration that, despite my comments above, if such things had been taught in any other Christian denomination, they would have attracted no following, and indeed been shunned.

Anyway, as you asked, I have attached the two most recent editions of 'The Way of Life'. The few who receive it by e-mail will not receive the small inside pictures, as these are still literally 'stuck on'.

• You and I can no doubt agree that the contents of anything are the most important, though strategically things like colour and pictures are very important these days.

As Brethren we were brought up with devotional magazines (or 'printed ministry') being the norm, but most people today including Christians have stopped reading, so something has to be visually attractive with snappy titles to be picked up and read at all.

• Many Christians only read a few verses of scripture and brief notes such as 'Daily Bread', so it is a challenge to gradually build up an appetite. I believe therefore that the magazine is meeting a real need, and only wish it could be improved in quality, expanded and circulated throughout the UK.

• I would be very willing for one or two others to come on board whether as helpers or as partners if so led - but leave that to the Lord.

I can e-mail any past editions of the mag over the past 8 years, and also have limited paper copies of some. If you are publishing selected bits of my e-mails you could invite readers to e-mail me on Rod.Hawgood@googlemail.com and request samples if they so wish. They may find it suitable for passing on to Christians other than 'Brethren' if you see what I mean.

Once again, God bless you and your work for Him.

Love in our Lord Jesus, Rod Hawgood.
27 Yardley Way, Overlane Park, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 0ES

To: Rod Hawgood
Tue, Jun 1, 2010

Dear Rod,
I'm glad visiting MB "feels like coming home" and your favourable comments are appreciated.

Regarding the details about which you inquired, to save time and repetition please see the following on MB – 'Personal: My History' and 'The Last Opportunity' and 'My Stand 2: Aberdeen 1-5'.

• Rather lengthy I admit but most of your questions should be covered. Of course, if any points of interest are missed don't hesitate to ask again.

I don't frequent the so-called churches but, from reports, your judgment of the situation is accurate.

The 1993 hymn collection is my own additions to the 1973 book and was made to reinstate some fine hymns for the use of a few of us who met together. The details are in the History section of MB.

Yes, "1959/60 was the main point of departure" but certainly there was a prior decline in spirituality and personal and household responsibility that made way for the great departure. Compare the declines in the book of Judges.

Thanks for the copies of your magazine which I have reviewed with interest. Your choice of contributors seems 'eclectic', perhaps even 'catholic'. But I fail to discern much of what you call "brethren truth". Still, any work for Him is valuable and to be commended.

I really regret such a brief and late reply to your interesting comments and perhaps I'll do better in future. We are going through an extremely hot spell and, in my 81st year, I no longer have the stamina for more details. Hope you understand.

Don't hesitate to write again.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Rod Hawgood
Wed, June 9, 2010

Dear Gordon,
Thanks for your last message. I've been enjoying reading the History since 1970 section of your website, very interesting, (and the thought patterns and expressions take me back a few years !).

• I found the letters on the Renton division helpful, as I knew broadly what it was about but had never seen anything in writing. My uncle David Hawgood at Sidcup belongs to the Rentons, I probed him a little on whether they still hold to the 1959/60 doctrines, only got vague answers, but assume they do.

I would particularly support the various letters by Lawrence Twinam and yourself. Does your site contain any letters on the 1974 Oxted division (maybe I'll find something as I read on), or on the later division which I believe started at Croydon? (An old friend refers to the resulting halves as the Frosts and the Defrosts!) Are there any Oxted type meetings still around?

Whilst reluctantly I think the parting with Renton et al was sadly necessary, I do regret the wider fragmentation of the fellowship since, such a waste of such potential. I wish I had been around in the early 70s, as although I was only in my early 20s, I would have used my influence to help, much as you did.

• At the age of 19, I did my own research in late 1970, writing to Ben Taylor and (for the sake of balance) to JT3 and Alan Kerr - got a good letter from the former and, not surprisingly, no reply from the latter two. Despite wavering briefly in the face of the evidence, my parents decided to stay with Taylor, to my great regret, so that was me stuck for the next few years.

• I was later married (unfortunately in the system), and we finally got free in 1976. At first we attended and enjoyed the Stockport 'Frost' meeting, but one little pleasure we allowed ourselves was a television, which became an issue with them when breaking bread was considered. My wife was reluctant to give it up, I could 'take it or leave it', but felt that this was an unscriptural test of fellowship which amounted to sectarianism.

However, occasionally there are more learned men who challenge me on this subject,

• saying the context of 1 Corinthians is how we meet together and therefore headcovering is only applicable is this context – I am convicted differently.

I struggle to see that eating meat offered to idols, fornication, taking a brother to law, etc. is relating to the gathered company,

• although needless to say, there are things within those passages that do relate exclusively to the gathered company.

Is there anything you could recommend reading or a way to answer such objections in a well structured Biblical way?

Many, many thanks, Yours in Christ, Lorraine Hedges.

To: Lorraine Hedges
Wed, 12 Jan 2005

Dear Lorraine,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. It is certainly encouraging that you have found help and 'liberty' as to the head covering and are helping others. Our Lord said the truth would make us free.

You are quite right that there are many things in 1 Corinthians that refer primarily to individual behaviour, although they all have an impact on the gathered company.

The "learned men" need to learn to read the Scriptures contextually and by the Spirit.

• The need for women to cover their heads clearly relates to the order in creation and therefore applies at all times when there is praying and prophesying, whether individually, householdly or collectively.

• Paul does not touch on the matter of the saints being gathered collectively in chapter 11 until verses 17 onwards; "When ye come together in assembly", verse 18.

I'll check to see what is available, although most already appear in Doctrine: Man and Woman.

In the meantime we would appreciate learning anything of your background you might be free to share.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Lorraine Hedges
Fri, 14 Jan 2005

Hi Gordon,
Greetings in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Thank you for responding to my questions! I am at present trying to read through the Doctrine: Man and Woman section of your website.

Lord bless, Lorraine Hedges.

P.S. I did write to you last year before I got married about this, but that was under the name Lesley Watson.

From: Lorraine Hedges
Sun, 27 Feb 2005

Hi Gordon,
Greetings in the most precious Name of our dear Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Just a quick question: is there anything on the 'My Brethren' site about the education of children?

• What do you think is the Biblical standpoint on educating children, and why?

• Personally, my husband and I have ideas and convictions on the subject, but are just wondering what other believers understanding on this subject is and of course more importantly WHY!

Yours in our Lord and Saviour, Lorraine Hedges.

To: Lorraine Hedges
Sat, 5 Mar 2005

Dear Lorraine,
We are sorry for the delay in replying to your note! Hope this finds you and Jeff well. Gordon asked me to reply to your question as I am handling the bulk of the corrspondece for 'My Brethren' now. He and Betty have been very busy preparing to sell their home and have been a little weary lately. I'm sure they would appreciate your prayers.

We do not have any information on 'My Brethren' which relates to the education of children as to general schooling – if we ought to "home-school" as opposed to private or public education.

• But it has given us an idea for a new page that deals with the subject and we will add it to our list of projects.

I was wondering, before I answer, if this was what you had in mind and maybe what your convictions are on the subject?

Yours in our Lord Jesus.

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Bill Henry

To: Bill Henry
b-bhenryATkent.net
Wallaceburg, Ontario, Canada
Wed, 27 Mar 2002

Dear Bill,
Thanks for visiting MB. I'm sorry for the delay in replying and that I can't offer any help in your family research. Perhaps someone will see your message and come to your aid.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Nigel Herbert

To: Nigel & Rosanne Herbert
Email: NPHerbertATaol.com or RIMHerbertATaol.com
Newport, Gwent, UK New Location: Cardiff, South Wales
November 30, 1988

Dear Nigel and Rosanne,
Thanks for visiting my "My Brethren" and for your comments. It is good to hear from brethren who are seeking to go on in the light of God's great thoughts.

We withdrew in early 1971 – none too soon. After some fruitless time in the wilderness we re-committed ourselves to the Lord and to His interests. With a few others – mostly of other backgrounds – we meet for the Lord's Supper "until He come".

I would be glad to hear from you at any time, Nigel. May the Lord's blessing be on you and Rosanne and your household.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

From: Nigel Herbert
Tue, 27 Jul 1999

Gordon, Dear Brother,
My father (Philip Herbert, Newport Gwent, UK) mentioned to me last night that he has been in touched with Mr. Withell from the 'Depot', who mentioned that you are researching the history to the Stow Hill Bible and Tract Depot.

• My father has gone away to search out his archives, which we will be very happy to share with you.

• For reference, my Great Grandfather, John Herbert was the founder of the Stow Hill Depot and ran it for many years in Newport, South Wales.

If such information is of interest to you, please let me know any particular aspects you would appreciate a clearer understanding of.

There are many 'family stories' that my father often tells about his grandfather,

• including the way he was offered the opportunity during the 1920's to take on the 'Family Title', as Earl of Powys, which would have entitled him to a seat in the British House of Lords, along with a huge country estate in Mid Wales.

• My Great Grandfather was a very humble man, and rejected this, keeping in mind the exhortation to "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God".

Anyway, enough for now. Let me know what specific information you would like and I will endeavour to do my best.

With warm love in our Lord Jesus to you and Betty.

Your brother in Christ, Nigel Herbert.

To: Nigel Herbert
cc: Malcolm Withell
Tue, 27 Jul 1999

Dear Nigel,
Thanks you very much for your kind offer of help. I remember your name well as you were the 2nd guest on "My Brethren" after its launch in November 1998!

There is an article on History: The Stow Hill Depot which I compiled a few years ago, from what resources I had, but there are a lot of blank spots.

• I was concerned that this important part of our history might be completely lost, or at least inaccessible, to many.

• The possibility of expanding it is cheering. Perhaps it might yet be of use to brethren generally.

When Malcolm Withell saw it recently he offered to help and has provided some details and so I am copying this e-mail to him.

• His reference to your Great Grandfather was of great interest. I would be glad of any information on him, and Mr. L. G. Jones, including various dates, etc.

Info as to early Stow Hill days is of interest, origin of name, how it started, why and how it was sold, etc.

• Any later info as to various locations, trustees, managers and dates is welcome.

• If you check my article you will see what I am missing.

Thank you once again for your brotherly offer of help.

Love in the Lord Jesus to you and Rosanne from us both,

Gordon.

To: Nigel Herbert
Cardiff, South Wales, UK
Thu, 27 Jan 2000

Dear Nigel,
Thanks for visiting MB again. When you are busy, a good time to visit is a few days after the beginning of each month, the time I try to add new items, and then check "Site News".

I haven't incorporated the information supplied by you and Malcolm Withell in History: The Stow Hill Depot as yet.

• I had the impression that there might be some more coming from you or your father, and I would prefer to have anything further before doing a revision.

• Please let me know whether to expect any more.

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

From; Nigel Herbert
Fri, 28 Jan 2000

Gordon, Dear Brother,
Nice to hear from you.

Firstly my sincere apologies for not following up on this; I have been incredibly busy over the last 6 months or so (moved house, our 3rd Child arrived, major business pressures, etc, etc, etc); Additionally my parents have had their hands full with the winding up of a complex estate of a loved one.

• Excuses, excuses, excuses!

I will revisit this, and approach my father again. I do know of some interesting correspondence which might be of relevance. If you can give me two or three weeks, I will endeavour to let you have someting further, Lord willing.

I do hope yourself and Betty are well.

With love in Christ, Nigel & Rosanne Herbert.

From: Nigel Herbert
Tue, 5 Sep 2000

Gordon:
Greetings in Christ to you and Betty.

Some time since I've had chance to visit your web site!

• Very impressed by how well it's 'taken off' and how fast it's grown!

I wonder if you'd be good enough to send me the 'R01 and R02' files, being FER's Letters, and FER's Vol. 1-20.

If it's of interest to you, I also have now as a PDF (Acrobat file) a scanned copy of JBS (J.B.Stoney) New Series Volume 1.

Apologies I've not been in touch too much recently – purely time constraints!

With love in Christ, Nigel (& Rosanne) Herbert.

To: Nigel Herbert
Mon, 11 Sep 2000

Dear Nigel,
Good to hear from you again! Pardon the delay in replying. My computer crashed a week or two ago and I have just acquired a new one, but am not completely set up yet.

I hope you find the zip files worthwhile.

Work seems to pile up quickly and I have not yet included the valuable information you supplied re Stow Hill. But I have not forgotten.

You may have noticed from the Guest Book 4 inquiry from Bernt Lindberg and My Stand 3 that MB is coming under bitter attack from those who hold to "eternal" sonship.

Yes I certainly would be interested in your "PDF (Acrobat file) a scanned copy of JBS (J. B. Stoney) New Series Volume 1". Would you agree to it being offered on the same basis as the zip files?

• Did you know that KBT is working on a CD-ROM of JBS. Is your PDF connected with that project?

With love in the Lord Jesus to you and Roseanne, Gordon.

From: Nigel Herbert
Tue, 12 Sep 2000

Gordon,
Great to hear from you. Thanks too for the Zip files you sent.

Herewith JBS New Series Volume 1 in Zipped PDF format.

• I was not aware of the work that KBT are doing on JBS Volumes. This copy came to me from a dear brother in Christ in Glasgow, who I believed had scanned it himself.

You commented on the attacks that hold the matter of the "eternal" sonship of Christ to be truth.

• How sad that this error continues to be promulgated by believers who otherwise recognise the dignity of the God-head, and who claim to value the revelations concerning the relationship between the Father and the Son.

• Scripture is clear on this matter:

• "He shall be great, and shall be called Son of [the] Highest; and [the] Lord God shall give him the throne of David his father; and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for the ages, and of his kingdom there shall not be an end. But Mary said to the angel, How shall this be, since I know not a man? And the angel answering said to her, [The] Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, and power of [the] Highest overshadow thee, wherefore the holy thing also which shall be born shall be called Son of God", Luke 1: 32-35.

• May we all be encouraged to hold fast the truth which has been entrusted to us, jealously guarding it, that as a result there may be a maintenance of that which has been established at great cost, and with much devotion, for glory to God.

With love in Christ to you and Betty.

Nigel (& Rosanne) Herbert.

To: Nigel Herbert
Thu, 28 Sep 2000

Dear Nigel,
I am writing to you because of the following part of an email from Malcolm Withell, manager of KBT:

• Malcolm says, "I gave a print-out of a couple of bits from your site to Mr Burton, regarding ministry scanned in by other people, and he has asked me to see if I can find out how much more might have been done, as it would be silly to duplicate work.

• I realise you only get to know of things which happen to come to your attention, but we'd be grateful for any feedback on this. Now, if anyone's volunteering to scan in JT Vols 1-100 ... :-)"

In view of Malcolm's inquiry, I wonder whether the brother in Glasgow who did that excellent PDF file of JBS Vol. 1 has done any other scanning of ministry and, if so,

• whether he would be willing to make his scanning files on JBS or other ministry available to KBT. I'm not sure how far KBT's work on the JBS cd-rom has progressed.

• Also, is it all right if I make his PDF available to MB guests?

I understand that the FER ministry that has been scanned by John Vedder will be available to KBT.

• Perhaps you might know of others who have done some scanning of ministry.

• I realize that brethren are separated for various reasons but, in my judgment at least, it would be good if those who are able were willing to contribute their labours. We would all benefit from having the various ministries on cd-rom.

• I trust I am not expecting too much of our brotherly contacts is asking the above.

Yours in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Nigel Herbert
Thu, 28 Sep 2000

Gordon,
Thanks for yours of 28th September. I will need to enquire of the brother in Glasgow [Peter Metcalfe] whether:

• he has any other volumes of JBS 'scanned' (and for that matter whether he has any other ministry scanned too?)

• whether he would object to his work being used in the context of your 'My Brethren' web site

• whether he would object, or be interested in assisting the KBT in terms of either sharing his 'scanned' ministry with them for duplication/circulation, or even making available his services in terms of 'scanning' ministry on behalf of KBT.

• I will ask the question, and we'll see what sort of response we get.

I do not currently know of anyone else undertaking work in this respect. This is a pity because to my mind,

• the more that the wonderful legacy and heritage of the truth which has been passed down to us can be preserved, and made more widely available, even through new technology means,

• then this can only be for glory to God, and for a furtherance in maintaining that truth in testimony here in these last days.

Personally, being constantly travelling on business at the moment across Europe and USA, I find the only real chance I have to do any reading is that which I have access to electronically via my PC. Hence ministry on CD's to me is a real blessing.

With love in Christ to you and Betty.

Nigel (& Rosanne) Herbert.

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Hermino Hernandez Jr.

From: Hermino Hernandez, Jr.
elect4jcATaol.com
Tampa, FL, USA
Fri, 16 Jul 1999

I am from the open brethren. Was really interested in the information concerning the teachings of exclusive brethren you have.

However in your article concerning the Eternal sonship of our Lord Jesus it would be helpful if

• you would present some of the verses that people use to defend this doctrine,

• and why you disagree with those interpretations.

Also concerning Exclusivism, from what I read it would seem that open and exclusive brethren are in agreement that the local assembly should only recieve those believers who are walking in holiness and are sound in doctrine.

• Am I missing something? For if this is the case why is there a division between the open and exclusive groups? Please respond.

To: Hermino Hernandez Jr.
Sat, 17 Jul 1999

Dear Hermino,
Welcome to "My Brethren". I'm glad you found some interesting information.

I hope to be able to respond to your thoughtful questions in the next week.

Yours in our Lord, Gordon.

Note: I am getting mixed signals from aol – first that the message was received, and then that it was undeliverable. If you see this Hermino, please let me know whether you are receiving messages at the e-mail address above.

To: Hermino Hernandez Jr.
Mon, 26 Jul 1999

Dear Hermino,
You may find an answer as to why 'opens' and 'exclusives' are, and remain, divided in Studies: Fellowship.

• 'Differences as to Features of the Truth' in Part One and 'Different Groups of Brethren' in Part Two are an attempt to answer questions of a young brother in a distant part of the world.

Yours in our Lord, Gordon.

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Julia Hernandez

To: Julia Hernandez
jhernandezATvineland.org
Vineland, NJ, USA
Thu, 15 Jun 2000

Dear Julia,
Thank you for visiting 'My Brethren'. I hope you found something of interest and will come back again.

I'm sorry I have very little information on the location of meetings of the "Kelly-Continental Brethren" – MB is not connected with KLC – to whom you refer.

• However, I understand that there is a meeting at — New Jersey. Perhaps some one where could let you know whether they have a meeting in Orlando. Some of the names of brothers there are … There are also meetings in — NJ, and — NJ. I have no addresses but can give you names.

• In any case, your inquiry is in the Guest Book and might draw a reply.

• Please let me know if you receive any replies, and if I can be of any further service.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

From: Julia Hernandez
Fri, 16 Jun 2000

Dear Gordon,
Thank you very much for your prompt reply. I appreciate any information.

As we await our soon coming Lord and Saviour, I remain your sister in Christ, Julia.

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Stephen Hesterman

To: Stephen Hesterman
sehestermanAThotmail.com
Warren, NJ, USA
Sun, 27 Feb 2000

Dear Stephen,
I have often wondered how we might make contact.

• I appreciated your "A Few Remarks concerning an Unsigned Article entitled 'The Eternal Sonship of Christ' ", which Daniel sent to me.

A visit from you and your wife "in the spring or early summer" would certainly be most welcome.

• Regretfully, in view of our own household and local circumstances, we may not be able to offer to accommodate you. But this can be reviewed as the time is nearer. Will you be going to Woodstock to see Richard?

My address etc. is attached. Thank you for thinking of us.

With love in Christ, Gordon.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Wed, 08 Mar 2000

Dear Stephen,
Thank you for sending the recent issue of your magazine "Showers of Blessing".

• "The Distinction between the Clergy and the Laity – is it of God?" is of great importance and I trust it will be used to clear the minds of some of your readers.

• My brief comments on that and related matters can be seen in Studies: Our Responsibility in the Present State of the Church: The Public Breakdown.

Yours in the Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Mon, 05 Jun 2000

Dear Steve and Jane,
We trust you arrived home safely. It was good to meet you both and spend a little time together.

• We only regret that circumstances didn't allow more time to share our experiences and exercises together.

Thank you for the copy of your 1995 letter which helps our understanding of earlier events.

We will be glad to hear from you at any time, and will be watching for the development of our web site.

• Note: See Site News: Links

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty.

From: Stephen Hesterman
Re: Site Visit
Sat, 17 Jun 2000

Dear brother Gordon,
Thank you and Betty for your kindness to us during our recent visit to Toronto.

• We appreciated our time with you both and the Christians who meet with you.

• I trust God will use these contacts with one another for His glory and His people's blessing.

• And may the promise of our Lord Jesus: "I am coming again, and shall receive you to myself" be a living hope in our hearts.

With warm love to you both, in which Jane joins.

Your brother in Christ, Stephen Hesterman.

From: Stephen Hesterman
Mon, 31 Jul 2000

Dear brother Gordon,
Thanks for your interesting and informative email today. I believe it well to gently and straightforwardly minister the truth, with the Lord's gracious help.

• It is a deeply felt sorrow that some should label as blasphemy the simple truth of scripture as to the Sonship of our blessed Lord Jesus.

• I have added a 1939 extract by J. Collie-Smith of New Zealand, which helpfully reviews this precious truth.

• You may find it on our Treatises page at link "The Testimony in the World". The full URL is http://www.plymouthbrethren.com/jcs1939.mv.

We were in Villa Grove for a Saturday fellowship meeting with Daniel Soukoreff a week or so ago, happily renewed our acquaintance with the Palugas, and met a number of other Christians from the area.

Love in Christ to you and Betty, in which Jane joins.

Your brother in Him, Stephen Hesterman.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Tue, 01 Aug 2000

Dear Stephen,
The article by JC-S is very good. I have posted the link to your site. Thank you.

January 2001: The complete article to which Stephen refers is the first article on the new MB page Ministry: J. Collie-Smith.

Our united love to you and Jane in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Wed, 28 Feb 2001

Dear Stephen,
I just noticed the entry of Leonard Layne in your Guestlog, attempting to use your site to spread the doctrine of "eternal" Son.

• As his URL will show he is connected with the so-called "Reunited Brethren" – the amalgamation of Kelly-Lowe-Continental-Grant-Glanton –
  • who are bitterly opposed to our understanding of our Lord's Sonship, and to FER and JT.

  See: My Stand 3: Opposers of 'My Brethren..

• Some months ago, I had some unsatisfactory correspondence with LL regarding addressing the Spirit when he submitted an essay for my comments.

  See: My Answer 1 "To Whom do you Pray?". Further email with LL became controversial, had to be discontinued, and was considered unprofitable to post.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Stephen Hesterman
Thu, 01 Mar 2001

Dear brother Gordon,
Thanks for your email and the heads up on LL's guestlog signing.

• I have added an editorial comment with links to two articles on our site, http://www.plymouthbrethren.com/.

• When persons really carefully consider the truth as to the Lord's Sonship in the light of scripture, it becomes evident that Sonship refers to Jesus as incarnate.

With warm love to you and Betty, in which Jane joins.

Your brother in Christ, Stephen Hesterman

From: Stephen Hesterman
Tue, 07 March, 2006

Hello Gordon,
I have had some correspondence with a brother about Anglin's baptism article, and I was considering whether I should write to you or Jeff.

• Anglin likens New Testament baptism to Old Testament circumcision in the manner of the Heidelberg Catechism of 1562, and I don't believe this is supported by Scripture (nor by the Biblical ministry of Godly men which we appreciate).

I had never heard of S. M. Anglin before reading the article, and I wondered where this article came from. I understand my cousin John Hunziker had a notebook with a number of articles on baptism.

Trust you and Betty keep well, through God's mercy.

With love in Christ in which Jane joins, Stephen Hesterman.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Tue, 07 Mar 2006

Dear Stephen,
Thanks for your comments on Anglin's Baptism which we will review, although I had no difficulty at the time posted. Jeff has all my old pamphlets so we will discuss soon.

We keep reasonably well, thanks.

Love to you and Jane. It seems ages since your visit. Gordon and Betty.

From: Stephen Hesterman
Wed, 08 Mar 2006

Hello Gordon,
Thank you for your email. I have attached a letter*which considers, in the light of Scripture, S. M. Anglin's teaching regarding Old Testament circumcision and New Testament baptism. The letter is the substance of my letter to another brother who referred me to Anglin's article.

• [* The letter is not posted but extracts appear in my later reply. GAR]

Love in Christ, Stephen Hesterman.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Sat, 01 Apr 2006

Dear Stephen,
On March 7, 2006 you wrote, "I have had some correspondence with a brother about Anglin's baptism article ... "

See the whole reply on Guests: My Stand 4: S. M. Anglin re Baptism and Circummcsion.

Despite having to disagree, be assured that we do appreciate both your brotherly interest in what appears on 'My Brethren' and the fact that, as we believe, there is a great body of teaching which we all value and hold.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: Stephen Hesterman
Mon, 01 May 2006

Dear Stephen,
We received your booklet 'Baptism' which you asked us to consider "prayerfully". We have both carefully reviewed the articles and offer our comments.

See the whole reply as an addition to Guests: My Stand 4: S. M. Anglin re Baptism and Circummcsion.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Neville Hewines

Neville Hewines
nhewinesAToanet.com
Lacombe, AB, Canada
Thu, 16 Mar 2000

Dear Neville,
You may not remember us but we surely do remember you, Les and Muriel, and the family.

• We were all in the old east end Barker Ave. meeting and spent many happy times together. We left in 1971 and Les was the only one to visit us.

• We would love to hear how you are getting on and any news of your family.

With love in our Lord Jesus, Gordon and Betty Rainbow.

From: Neville Hewines
Tue, 28 Mar 2000

Dear Gordon:
Thank you for responding to my note in the guestbook. It is good to hear from a friend of many years ago. I hope you and Betty are well.

• Interestingly, your name showed up yesterday in my baby book, that my mom and dad had sent out along with some old school report cards.

• I thank you for the gift (which I outgrew some time ago) and for your caring attitude both then and now.

• I can imagine you put a tremendous amount of work into your web site, and it must be very rewarding. I congratulate you for the success of this work.

God has blessed me over the years, and I am thriving as a student of life, both the physical and the spiritual kind.

• My wife Teha and I have been together 10 years. We operate a small sculpture studio and foundry for casting bronze.

I would like to contact you again, when time permits, with some news of my family and others.

Take care, Neville Hewines.

To: Neville Hewines
Wed, 29 Mar 2000

Dear Neville,
Thanks for responding with news of yourself – and for the memories. We'll be looking forward to hearing from you again as time permits.

• I am not sure whether you are referring to Dick Wyman's site on which I found your entry, or my own "My Brethren" site. I must be getting old, indeed I am.

• If you haven't actually visited "My Brethren" please check it out some time at the URL below.

With love in our Lord Jesus to you and Teha,

Gordon and Betty.

From: Neville Hewines
Sat, 29 Apr 2000

Dear Gordon,
I wanted to let you know I was referring to your work here when I mentioned it in my e-mail.

Take care, Neville.

To: Neville Hewines
Sat, 29 Apr 2000

Dear Neville,
Thanks for helping me out! I appreciate it and your interest in MB.

Yours in our Lord, Gordon.

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Phil Hickmott

Dear brother Gordon,
My wife and I exchange letters with a dear young couple (with five children) in Vancouver, by name Dan and Kirsten Soukoreff. Recently Dan sent a print of My Journey.

• We don't have a computer or even a fax so I advised Esli Forrest of Auckland of your site details and have since heard from him of your encouraging reply to his message. He also told me your address, hence this air letter.

I am 71 and my wife Margaret 66. A great deal of our history has similar characteristics to yours. Suffice it to say that we were put out in June 1976, not long after having Jim Symington staying in the house.

In early 1976 (I think) we did a group trip including a stay in Toronto with a single sister, Eileen ?, when on our way to Barbados.

We took 12-18 months to wake up to any degree to the evil of the system, during which time we had left three adult children in there, now married and who make no contact with us.

• Gradually the shame of the past came home to us that we had been away from Lord all those years and unaware of it.

Like yourselves, we became involved with a post 1970 group (1978), known as Rentons.

• Dear souls visited us and the Lord fed us in typical grace and love, but misgivings grew as we sensed that leading men would not look honestly at the state that let up to the 1970 disaster.

• Then in 1991, troubles occurred in Australasia and the signs of the same old "brethrenism" and hierarchical structure became apparent and, in any case, they cut us off.

We have now no wish to be included in the name and address list of any group though we do know of some dear souls in other parts of the world with similar feelings to ourselves.

• There are a few dear brethren in New Zealand with whom we have happy times during the visits but there is no "us" idea.

• But in some little way, we prove the reality of the Lord's assurance to the "two or three",

• and in the process long to be closer to Christ's heart as He views the whole scene down here and never loses sight of any one member of His body on earth.

About 2 1/2 years ago I visited as newly-opened suburban Christian book shop and met the dear young man who manages it.

• It is quite a story but we discovered that his folks come from Ireland (Portadown) and have a "brethren" background.

• One result of the contact is that we now have weekly "Bible study" with 8 younger believers, including three married couples.
  • They began this when their OB meeting disbanded and invited Margaret and me along.

  • We go from house to house in turns. They were here last week.

• They are dear honest open-hearted lovers of Christ and we have become very attached to them. But their background teaching is largely OB.

It has given us a first-hand picture of the situation among the many OB type meetings in the city and it is a sad one;

• even the gospel being given up more and more, and being replaced by music and entertainment.

• But there are a number of troubled souls among them. The EB public disaster tends to confirm them in the independent outlook.

• It is all very interesting; encouraging and exercising at the same time.

• We can thankfully say that, through pure grace, Christ and His own mean more to us then they ever did.

Be assured you are regularly in our prayers. Trust your wife and yourself keep in good health. I had a slight stroke one and 1/2 years ago. Limbs unaffected but have to go more carefully.

Love in our Lord Jesus, Phil Hickmott.

To: Phil W. Hickmott
Subject: Your Air Letter, February 21, 1999
April 8, 1999

Dear Phil,
Please excuse the delay in replying to your most interesting letter of February 21, 1999.

• Your letter is now posted in the Mailbox along with e-mails from Daniel Soukoreff, Esli Forrest, Tom Hawkins (whom I understand you know, or know of) and other guests.

• I appreciate all the details of your history and more recent experiences. The "Bible study" with the younger believers must be an encouragement.

My Brethren doesn't get many guests who register as guests although statistics show many hits and downloads of pages.

• However, most messages require somewhat lengthy replies and I have quite a backlog just now.

• I'm sorry you don't have access to the web as I am sure you would find some of the correspondence interesting.

• Have you checked the main Chch library? Some libraries here and in U.S.A. provide internet access.

I am enclosing:

• a booklet which now is on MB, Studies: Our Responsibility in the Present State of the Church,

• a printout of the Site Map, and

• a printout of Guests: My Stand,

which may give you some small idea of the site.

I will be glad to hear from you at any time but can't promise speedy replies.

Affectionately in our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Nathan Hill

To: Nathan Hill
nathanbhillAThotmail.com
Siler City, North Carolina, USA
Tue, 7 Oct 2003

Dear Nathan,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I trust you have found it of interest and help. We would be glad to learn something of your background.

In the Lord, Gordon.

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Stephen Hill

To: Stephen Hill
stephenATshill42.freeserve.co.uk
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Fri, 24 Oct 2003

Dear Stephen,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Your inquiry re your grandfather, George Patton, is now in the Guest Book and I trust it will bring some response.

• I did not know GHP but have copies of two long letters of his:

1. 'An Open letter to Mr. C. W. Cooper' of Belfast, December 16, 1960,

2. A letter to Mr. W. Ernest Winter of Donaghadee, January 2, 1961.

• Both these letters were written in response to the withdrawal from the JTJr group by CWC and WEW.

GHP also appears in a photo of the platform group at the 1959 London meetings in Central Hall with G. R. Cowell.

I'm not sure whether the above will be of value but am glad to supply what I can and hope others will do the same.

Thanks for visiting MB. Please return and explore.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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David Hoag

To: David Hoag
BubbaHoagATmsn.com
Holyoke, Massachusetts, USA
Thu, 13 Feb 2003

Dear David,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Thanks for your kind remarks and for sharing your convictions.

• Yes, you are "not alone" and you are definitely "not crazy".

• I'm glad Mr. Darby's account was confirming. His writings were a great help to me as a young believer in pointing out the Scriptural path.

I hope you will return often and that the Lord will continue to bless you through the ministry.

If you are interested, a telephone chat might be of mutual encouragement. I'll be happy to phone you if you let me know your number.

In our Lord, Gordon.

From: David Hoag
Wed, 19 Feb 2003

Brother Gordon,
Please forgive me for taking so long to answer your e-mail. I was very happy to get your reply. Frankly, the idea of a telephone conversation scared me.

• I'm always so worried about saying the wrong thing. It seems that the many years of fire and brimstone preaching have taken their toll and brought about the effect of a fearful stifling.

• However, after some consideration of the matter, I have come to the conclusion that my fears are not from our Lord. Therefore I would welcome correspondence of any type.

• Whether or not you call me I will leave to your discretion. If you would like to, my number is —.

I live in Holyoke, MA. There are other believers here, of course, but as far as I know they are all affiliated with organizational churches.

• I am praying that the Lord will send a man here to bring us together in true fellowship. In the mean time, I am looking for an assembly nearby where I can take my family and be led in the truth rather than the tradition. Please pray with me about this.

There is still so much that I don't know, but I believe that God is able and willing to reveal Himself and His ways if we are diligent to seek Him.

Thank you again for the encouragement your work has been to me. God Bless.

Your Brother, David.

To: David Hoag
Thu, 20 Feb 2003

Dear David,
Thanks for your brotherly reply. Yes I would like to call you.

By the way, not to worry about saying the wrong thing. We're not judgmental ;-)

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

To: David Hoag
Sat, 22 Feb 2003

Dear David,
It was good to speak with you on the telephone last night, and to share our spiritual experiences and exercises.

You said that — — had seen your entry on MB and contacted you. Here are the 2 items on MB which I mentioned that relate to the position of those with whom he is connected.

• Guests: My Stand 3: Hyper Ecclesiasticism
  
• Guests: My Stand 3: Notable Divisions

• These items were in reply to requests for information by guests of MB.

On another matter we discussed, the following should help to clarify and expand my view on the state of things in christendom and what our attitude and response should be:

• Guests: My Answer 1: The Ruin of the Church
• Guests: My Answer 2: Present Day Gathering
• Doctrine: The Public Ruin of the Church and the 'Related Pages' noted there.

The Lord has clearly helped you to come to a judgment of much in the religious world.

• Now it is important to follow up what you have come to, and also to watch for the enemy's attempts to have you compromise your convictions.

Be assured of our prayers for you and your family. I look forward to further contact.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: David Hoag
Tue, 25 Feb 2003

Dear Brother Gordon,
I, too, enjoyed very much the opportunity to talk with you on the phone the other day.

• Not to sound too much like an apple polisher, but I believe you are a man of great spiritual maturity from whom I can learn a great deal.

• As you stated on the phone, there are bound to be areas of disagreement, and of course, we seek to be taught by the Holy Spirit rather than man.

• But at the same time we should seek to be humbled by God and accept those things He has clearly revealed to those who are our elders in the faith.

With that in mind, I truly don't wish any inquiries on my part to be misinterpreted as quarrelsome or as arrogant challenges.

• However, there are many questions I have. I'll limit them to one at a time.

The balance of this letter is in Guests: My Stand 3: Hyper Ecclesiasticism.

I'm looking forward to your reply as well as further correspondence. Thank you for your work and commitment to the Lord and His Body.

In the Grace of Our Lord, David.

To: David Hoag
Wed, 26 Feb 2003

Dear David,
Thanks for your full reply and for your question as to "hyper ecclesiasticism". Be assured, I won't consider any questions from you as "as quarrelsome or as arrogant challenges".

The balance of this letter is in Guests: My Stand 3: Hyper Ecclesiasticism.

I'm not sure, David, whether this has sufficiently explained the situation, but look forward to hearing from you again. I'll be glad to try to answer anything further on this or other matters.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Andrew Hopkins

To: Andrew Hopkins
HopkinsATuq.net.au
Brisbane, Australia
Fri, 3 Jan 2003

Dear Andrew,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thanks for signing the Guest Book. I hope your message will attract some old friends.

• In the meantime, do explore MB. You may find the posting of Mr. Cowell's ministry of special interest.

We'll be glad to hear from you again.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Walter Howe

To: Walter Howe
wc_howeATyahoo.com
Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
Mon, 3 Dec 2001

Dear Walter,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. It's interesting that your wife having the hymn book out should lead you to MB.

Betty and I were only in Cincinnati once in the early-mid 1960's, staying with Mrs. Frechtling in Hamilton. That must have been after you left.

• I'm glad to hear that you have been sustained in the meantime, but would be interested to learn of your earlier exercises leading to your leaving.

• We don't recall your name and Betty wonders if she might have known your wife before you were married, if you would share her maiden name with us.

When you mention Robert Young are you referring to 'Young's Literal Translation'?

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Walter Howe
Tue, 04 Dec 2001

"Forgetting those thinks which are behind". Yet we are to give an account! Thank you for your message.

I really am a simple, without an academic education, an unlearned reader. I had a problem reading as a child, and

• it wasn't until I was in the Navy and aboard ship that God gave me the desire to start reading the Bible.
  • KJV of course, I did not know what a version was. To me at the time it was God's word, "truth"( John 17).

• I did not think I needed any outside help in understanding what I was reading, the Holy Spirit would "guide you into all the truth". But it wasn't so.

• In time after being discharged from the Navy, I felt compelled to go into a Bible Book Store. When I came out I had Young's Analytical Concordance to the Bible.

• This gave me my first understanding of a Version, and that the Book the preacher held up as being infallible just wasn't so.

• Thus my appreciation of Robert Young's labors. I do have his translation.

The fellowship in Cincinnati was never a large one, and we came in from the "outside".

• To start "breaking bread" with them I did submit my family to their "test" of fellowship; "household baptism".

But to answer your question about my exercise to leave. I do not remember how long it was after we were in fellowship, but a "brother" and his family came to the city from ??.

• It wasn't long after that a "purging" began. Something I did not at all understand. The one that most troubled me was Mr. Acomb. Did you know him? I have no idea why.

• The night I left the "brother" and his son were going after some one else.

I do very much believe that we, "the saints" are to be imitators of our apostle, Paul, and take heed to all his instructions regarding our walk in this present evil world ('eon' Young's A.C.)

Mrs. Frechtling – a generous sister.

I will be interested to find out if your wife did know Mabel Clark. Was your wife in the Waves, or did she live in Cincinnati at some time? What was her maiden name?

I trust the above will not be a burden to you.

Think on these things –

Walter.

From: Walter Howe
Tue, 04 Dec 2001

Reading the Guest Book brought back both good and bad memories. While I don't know the children who wrote;

• I do remember the names: Bunning,McKillup,Wyman, McCallum. I found McCallum in Wyman's Guest Book. I'm sure there would be more.

• It was sad and somewhat dishartening to read of the trials that many have and are going through.

I wonder if any remember Robert and Erna Sinclair. I understand they had a very trying time after leaving Cincinnati.

To all may you find "joy and peace in believing", Romans 15: 13; "forgetting the things behind,and stretching out to the things before", Philippians 3: 13; "think on these things", Philippians 4: 4-8.

Walter Howe.

To: Walter Howe
Thu, 06 Dec 2001

Dear Walter,
Thank you for your two replies and the details. No, my wife Betty (Reid of Toronto) would not know your wife since you came from "outside", as I myself did here in Toronto in 1950.

• I was wearied with the pushing of 'baptist' views in the 'open' meeting and was looking for some brethren who also held household baptism.

No, I don't remember Mr. Acomb, but there is an "Acomb" mentioned three times in the 1898 History: FER in America. Could this be the same Mr. Acomb, or perhaps an earlier generation?

Yes, we do remember Robert and Erna Sinclair well. Robert is with Christ and, I believe, Erna still lives in Boston.

The casting out of many in 1959 and the following years was both shameful and sorrowful.

• We too have "both good and bad memories" but the Lord has helped us and we go on with a few, seeking to be pleasing and faithful to Him while we await His coming.

Betty joins in love in Christ to you and Mabel.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Walter Howe
Tue, 11 Dec 2001

Thank you for your message of the 6th.

I don't know anything about Mr. Acomb's background with the fellowship. But to me he was a kind and caring "elder" brother both in age and service. He was often asked to take meetings.

• Did you know John Hunter from Columbus, Ohio? He was much like Mr. Acomb. I would have left before I did, but he encouraged me to "hang in there".

"Old things" had past away long before I found the "meeting", and I was exercised about about my relationship unbelievers. 2 Cor. 6: 14-18 wasn't something new to me.

• One of the first questions I asked before I "joined" the fellowship was about belonging to trade unions. I had recently started work for the Cincinnati Gas & Electric Co. and had joined the union "under duress".

• A short time after my conversation with Mr. McKillop a bulletin was posted regarding an escape from the union. I had no problem using it giving my reason as a believer it was not Scriptural for me to belong.

• I worked for CG&E for almost 20 years when the Co. went to a "Closed Shop". I did not have a problem accepting it, but the union members did; they wanted to pay my dues for me to stay.

• I had no problem finding other employment, and God has been faithful to His word in supplying all our needs and a lot of our wants.

Peter spoke about Paul's words as being "hard to be under-stood", 2 Peter 3: 16. Then too the words of Jesus are very "hard" words. Matthew 8: 21; 10: 37-38 are just a few that come to mind.

• After some 1900 years just how much of the Scriptures apply to the "believers in Christ", those who have been called into the fellowship of God's Son – 1 Corinthians 1: 8 – today?

• I've often wondered about the saints between Paul's letters, and the English translation of them as we have them today. Those who purified themselves from the "great house". Is there any account of them?

Thanks for the info about Bob Sinclair. Just a question. If Bob is with Christ has 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 been fulfilled literally?

• I have been in contact with those who hold that all Scriptures had been fulfilled in 70AD. Are you one of their adherents now?

• They extol the grace of God, but everything is "now", even Christ presenting, "the assembly to Himself glorious", Eph. 5: 25-27.

I trust all is well with you. Walter.

To: Walter Howe
Sat, 15 Dec 2001

Dear Walter,
Thanks for writing again. Yes, I knew John Hunter well. He was a real 'gentle' man, loving and caring. There are few like him. He withdrew in 1970, as did many others.

You have certainly proved the faithfulness and goodness of God in your stand against unions.

Actually we are to purge ourselves from vessels to dishonour; We can't leave the great house of Christian profession.

• Records of those who might have acted on 2 Timo-thy 2 in the early centuries are non existent, to my knowledge, but their names will be known in heaven.

• The history of those times was written by supporters of the institutional church who would have a vested interest in suppressing such information.

No, 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 has not been "fulfilled literally".

• I don't know those who you say "hold that all Scriptures had been fulfilled in 70 AD" – a strange and unscriptural view indeed – and am certainly not "one of their adherents". You are unlikely to receive help from such a source.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

From: Walter Howe
Mon, 28 Jan 2001

I am confused. I do not want to burden you with what might seem a stupid question, but I have been concerned with your understanding of the saints who have died.

• I was reading your ministry in the 'My Brethren' site and the question of your use of the phrase "with Christ" came before me again. (You had used it regarding Bob Sinclair when I asked about him.)

• In what way do you believe the saints who have died are "with Christ" if Christ has not come for His body the "church" (KJV) Ephesians 5 and, as you said, 1st Thessalonians 4 has not been fulfilled.

• What is your Scriptural understanding of death? I am learning how to distinguish what is literal or a figure of speech. Do you use "with Christ" as a figure of speech?

• Some day we will know the truth. I am not offended by what you are given to believe, and mean not to offend in asking questions.

Walter.

Note: Reply to follow shortly.

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Suzanne Ruth Howell-Gleason

To: Suzanne Ruth Howell-Gleason
suzgleasonATaol.com
Seattle, WA, USA
Mon, 23 Aug 1999

Dear Suzanne,
Thanks for dropping in. 'Howell' was a well known and rightly honoured name in earlier and better times. As a young man I noted CHH's dignified bearing and help in special meetings.

There are usually new items each month, so come again.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

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Deborah Howell-Killeffer

To: Deborah HOWELL-Killeffer
Mrspastor7ATaol.com
Braintree, Massachusetts, USA
Wed, 3 Mar 1999

Dear Deborah,
Thanks for visiting "My Brethren". I have checked a 1992-93 "Hales" group list of "transfers" but the Admiraal name does not appear.

We share with you the sorrow of not being able to contact dear ones and not even knowing where they may be.

• We do not know where my wife's sister Mary Schaumburg is [subsequently reported to be in Neche] but we continue to pray for her daily.

I trust some visitor may be able to give you the needed information as to your sister. Don't give up.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

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Hazel Hoyle

From: Hazel Hoyle
hazel777ATshaw.ca
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Fri, 3 May 2002

cc: of e-mail to Daniel Soukoreff

Greetings Daniel,
I have been following your dialogue with Gordon from My Brethren. I am intrigued.

• I have been reading the J. N. Darby translation of the Bible am blessed to find others in my midst who know of his works.

I am a believer who has renewed my walk with Christ just over four years ago now.

• Although I was saved as a young child, life and circumstance led me to walk far away for a number of years. Praise God for his mercy and grace.

• My father considers himself one of the Brethren, and I have not fully understood what this 'term' he often referred to was.

• I am seeing now it is simply believers or saints. In times past as my dad referred to "the Brethren" it always sounded somewhat mystical, "culty" – possibly even unbiblical.

He brought the Bible I read to Canada from England in the 1960s and passed it along to me when I was 11 years old – 21 years ago. The book became dusty, but now is tattered, torn and colourfully highlighted.

• I have been following the Lord's Spirit avidly for a few years now, and my father's reference to me as Little One showed up in one of the clippings of a JND related writing.

• This confirmed with my spirit that I need to learn more about this group of believers.

• I was given the impression by my father – Ronald G. Hoyle of Lethbridge, Alberta – that there were few of the Brethren remaining.

• He has not attended any church for years and I am praying for and believing for deliverance from certain spiritual oppression, which is evident through discernment – medically speaking it is labelled as chemical imbalance, but we know the truth of where the nature of the illness lies.

• I expectantly await God's promise that this tormentor will be bruised beneath my dad's feet shortly.

I had the pleasure of purchasing the last two copies of the JND translations of the Holy Bible from the Canadian Bible Society in Vancouver British Columbia, where I reside. I sent these upon my dad's request to other family members.

Mr. Hoyle has often made remarks that have intrigued me about the value of the JND translations and others out there who are familiar with his works.

• I am surprised, somewhat, to see the numbers of persons who visit the Darby-related/Brethren-related websites.

• I stumbled upon these only after continued persuasion of my father to find and purchase the Synopsis of Books of the Bible, which he has read many years ago.

• I too, am very interested in reading these volumes for a deepened insight to what I hope has been an enlightened walk with my Jesus.

• Time, life and God's perfect timing has kept me from this pursuit until this evening and I am blessed to see the multitude of resources online pertaining to this informative theology.

Daniel, I suppose this is enough for introductions. I intend to read more of the website e-mail correspondence. I am intrigued and interested in your views.

I also am a writer and believe the Lord places people in our paths for a reason as we heed the utterance of our inward witness.

• So with all boldness, I will ask if you and/or your publishing house acquaintances are willing and interested in receiving a submission from me of a recent chronology compilation the Lord has had me working on for the past three years.

• The works are now in final edit and I am interested in sharing my queries with people of God, who follow the spirit in their actions, deeds and words. You seem humbly to be of this sort.

• I await your response to this request and will pray for the Lord to continue to influence my upcoming queries.

Blessings and peace, In Christ, Hazel Hoyle.

cc: Gordon Rainbow, My Brethren.

To: Hazel Hoyle
Sat, 4 May 2002

Dear Hazel,
Welcome to 'My Brethren' and thanks for sharing your email to my friend Daniel Soukoreff.

• There are many items on MB that will answer your desire to learn more about the 'brethren'. And I'm sure that Daniel will be able to help you.

In the Lord, Gordon.

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Peter Hsieh

To: Peter Hsieh
nlhsiehATtm.net.my
Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia
Subject: Plymouth Brethren First Pamphlet in 1828
Wed, 24 Mar 1999

Dear Peter,
Thank you for visiting 'My Brethren' and the extract from JND's paper on The Nature and Unity of the Church of Christ.

• I first read that valuable paper in 1947, 52 years ago. It is still available in volume 1 of the 'Collected Writings of JND' and in 'The Faith once delivered to the Saints, and various papers', both published by Kingston Bible Trust.

It is unclear whether the statement appended to the extract is your own or from someone else.

• Perhaps you will bear with a few observations on it. These are not meant to be critical of you but for the record – as I understand it.

It is strange that anyone familiar with the issues and the subsequent history could say,

• "This 'Vision' was lost in 1848 due to the division among the Plymouth Brethren. This was recovered in 1921 by Brother Watchman Nee who continued where the Plymouth Brethren had left-off."

• This is more difficult to understand since you have said elsewhere that "I am from the local churches or Little Flock initiated by Brother Watchman Nee, an off-shoot of the Exclusive Brethren. Our basic Biblical Theology is very Exclusive Brethren especially the teachings of J. N. Darby. I have always been studying Exclusive Brethren teachings …"

• If the 'vision' was lost in 1848 – by all the brethren including JND – it hardly seems consistent that "the teachings of J. N. Darby" – most of which were given after 1848 – should be so basic to your beliefs.

As to being "an off-shoot of the Exclusive Brethren" this could only be on the very broadest interpretation.

• WN and those with him were only identified with so-called exclusives for a short period, 1930-35.
  • History: The China Episode.

  • My Stand 2: History of 'Local Churches'
    
    versus the 'Brethren' Movement.

• This connection was severed because WN and those with him were not governed by what other brethren considered to be scriptural principles

To repeat, these observations are not meant to be critical of you but for the record. I trust they will be received by you in the same brotherly spirit in which they are made.

Yours in the the Lord, Gordon Rainbow.

From: Peter Hsieh
Subject: Little Flock
Thu, 25 Mar 1999

Dear Gordon Rainbow
Thank for your Email and hopefully I can clear the air clearly. I am not able to send you the attached Appendix on our Statement of Faith issued by my locality because I don't have the scanner.

Yours in Christ Jesus, Peter Hsieh

To: Peter Hsieh
Thu, 01 Apr 1999

Dear Peter,
Thank you for your reply and the attachments which I have perused.

The 'My Brethren' Guests: Policies: Correspondence states

• "A message … will not be posted or acknowledged if it … is merely promoting personal prejudices or partisan views rather than an objective view of the Holy Scriptures and the history of the assembly, …"

As we had already begun correspondence, I feel I owe you an explanation.

• As I read them, the attachments you sent are "promoting personal prejudices or partisan views" and so cannot be posted or commented on here, being outside the scope and objectives of 'My Brethren'.

• This is not meant as a personal criticism. Some might be prepared to correspond with you privately, but my time is fully occupied with a backlog of correspondence relating to the stated purposes of this site.

Yours in the Lord, Gordon.

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John Hunziker is on a separate page. Access from menu. With Christ - May 30, 2001

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Paul Hutson

To: Paul Hutson
paul.hutsonATnelincs.gov.uk
Cleethorpes, North East Lincolnshire, England
Sat, 1 Dec 2001

Dear Paul,
Welcome to 'My Brethren', and I'm glad you found "much of interest".

• Your message is now in the Guest Book and I hope it attracts some of your past contacts.

• If you are free, it would be of interest if you would share your background and exercises.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Hannah Hutton

To: Hannah Hutton
hannah.huttonATnet.ntl.com
Fleet, Hampshire, UK
Thu, 6 Dec 2001

Dear Hannah,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. Thanks for your generous comments and for sharing your family background. It seems we have several connections.

Your grandfather, Paul Bodman, stayed with us here in Toronto in September 1966, at the so-called 'levitical' meetings before the Bristol room was built.

• Did you notice the reference to APB by Robert Fear in the Mailbox?

We were at special meetings in New York in April 1971 with your other grandfather Robert Stott.

• He and your grandmother came home with us for a visit and for meetings in Toronto.

• We had a delightful time on the long drive, stopping over to see brethren in Kingston and Perth.

• I recall Robert was very interested to see a sign for 'Brighton' as we approached Toronto.

• We had a profitable correspondence for some time after they returned home.

• I also had a brief correspondence with your uncle Roger at that time.

• There are reference to Robert Stott in
  History: Hymn Book,   History: Stow Hill Depot and
  Guests: My Stand 2: 1973 Hymn Book.

Please convey our love in Christ to Kathleen. Betty treasures a serving plate which Kathleen gave her.

I didn't know your parents personally but if I recall correctly your mother is Christine and your father Ben Bodman.

Thanks again and I hope you will come back from time to time to explore your rich spiritual heritage.

Betty joins in love in Christ.

In our Lord Jesus, Gordon.

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Daniel Ionescu

From: Daniel Ionescu
dionescu81ATyahoo.com
Livonia, Michigan, USA

The following is part of a message on another web site. May 19, 2002 … I really like John Nelson Darby. Everybody should read him, but many don't read him – it is sad. He was a man of God who was very profound and deep …

To: Daniel Ionescu
Mon, 20 May 2002

Dear Daniel,
I noticed your message on my friend Steve Hesterman's site and thought you might also be interested in visiting 'My Brethren' … There is much helpful ministry.

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Daniel Ionescu
Mon, 24 Jun 2002

Hello!
You wrote me an e-mail a while ago and you told me about your personal site. I read a few comments and I like it. I also signed your guest book.

I will attach 2 papers and I would like to now your opinion about them.

• One is with Watchman Nee – what's your opinion about him? I saw your name below a picture with him and Charles Barlow and other brothers – and one is about brethren divisions.

• I know which was the problem between PB and W. Nee. I do not agree with many things that are written in there.

• I received these papers from a brother who knows more about brethren history – more than me, because I am not part of a PB group, but I read Darby, Mackintosh, Bellet, W. Kelly.

• I also read Watchman Nee and I don't see his ministry being offensive to the Lord. What was the exact teaching of JND – his ecclesiatical views?

• He didn't say that christians outside PB are not saved – this is clear for me. I would like a few ideas, not a lot – just to know his position.

Thank you, Daniel.

To: Daniel Ionescu
Mon, 24 Jun 2002

Dear Daniel,
Thanks for visiting 'My Brethren' and for your kind remarks, as well as your questions.

• For some reason the 2 papers did not arrive – your second email was blank – so I can't comment on them at this time. Perhaps you will re-send them.

It would be a major undertaking to attempt to distil JND's "ecclesiastical views" into a few words. Therefore, I hope you will understand as I refer you to some articles on MB which will give you his views in his own words.

• Some are lengthy but I trust your interest will allow you to search through them for the parts that of special interest to you.

• Biography: J. N. Darby

• Ministry: J. N. Darby - Part One: The Nature and Unity of the Church of Christ

• Doctrine: The Public Ruin of the Church.

• A shorter paper which is in accord with JND's views is Doctrine: The Assembly by G. W. Ware.

If you have questions on specific points I would be glad to respond. Thanks again for visiting.

In the Lord, Gordon.

To: Daniel Ionescu
Wed, 26 Jun 2002

Dear Daniel,
Thanks for re-sending the two papers, for which you have asked my comments.

Both these papers emanate from the same web site – with which I am familiar. It supports the position of the so-called TW group.

• The general character of that group has already been considered in My Stand 3: Hyper Ecclesiasticism which you should read in conjunction with the following.

1. The first paper is titled 'The Nee - Lee Movement'. My personal knowledge of their doctrines is limited and so I do not comment on them.

• You ask my 'opinion' of Watchman Nee. I have read his biography by Angus Kinnear, and other reports of contacts with him, but am not qualified and not desirous of expressing a personal opinion.

• I can say that I respect him as a brother in Christ and as a servant of the Lord, and honour him as one who suffered greatly for his faithfulness to Christ.

• Reports of his 'open' ecclesiastical views, and his practice while connected with 'brethren' – represented on MB – in the early 1930's, and some of his doctrinal beliefs expressed at that time, do not commend themselves".

For further comments on origin and position of the 'Local Churches' – with which the writer of the paper seems unfamiliar – see the following:

• Mailbox: GHI: Peter Hsieh

• History: The China Episode

• My Stand 2: 'Local Churches'

2. The second paper is entitled 'Church Truth: A Brief Summary of Notable Divisions within the Brethren Movement'.

• As this is a subject with which I am quite familiar I will make some comments.

The balance of this letter is in Guests: My Stand 3: Notable Divisions within the Brethren Movement

I trust the above comments will be useful to you, Daniel. They are not offered in a critical spirit but with sorrow that such matters need examination.

• If you want anything clarified please don't hesitate to ask and, of course, I'll be glad to hear from you from time to time.

In the Lord, Gordon.

To: Daniel Ionescu
Thu, 12 Dec 2002

Hello!
I visit your site from time to time. I was searching for Loizeaux Brothers, Inc. on the internet and I realize that they don't have a web-site. Am I mistaken? If you know it please tell me, or tell me their address please, to be able to contact them.

Thank you

To: Daniel Ionescu
Fri, 13 Dec 2002

Dear Daniel,
It appears that "Loizeaux Brothers, Inc. has closed its ministry". Try www.biblecompanion.org/ and ask for info on LB publications. Hope this helps.

In the Lord Gordon.

From: Daniel Ionescu
Wed, 18 Jun 2003

I visit your site from time to time and I really like it. I have a question. Will a new edition of the book 'John Nelson Darby' by Max S. Weremchuk appear? Thank you.

To: Daniel Ionescu
Wed, 18 Jun 20032

Dear Daniel,
I'm glad to know that you find MB profitable. I do recall your earlier visits and correspondence with you which are in the Mailbox.

Yes indeed. Max Weremchuk has been working on a new – not a revision – biography of 'John Nelson Darby' for well over a year.

• His research is continuing and it looks like it may still be some months before his work is completed and goes to the press.

• It is a big job and I'm sure your prayers for this important work will be appreciated.

• When the revision is actually available it will be announced in MB's 'Bulletins'. Check from time to time.

Perhaps you missed the April 2003 Bulletin. We had a brief but happy visit with Max on April 17 when he was in Canada to visit his folks.

Check the Mailbox for correspondence with Max from April 30, 2002, onwards regarding his work.

• Max has also shared some of his ongoing research with MB and you can see it in Biography: JND Research.

Your interest is appreciated, Daniel – I will be glad to hear from you at any time.

• Any personal information as to your background etc., which you are free to share will be welcome.

In the Lord, Gordon.

From: Daniel Ionescu
Thu, 18 Jun 20032

Hello!
Thank you for your answer. I checked the mailbox for correspondence with Max and that's why I know about what he wants to do, but I wanted to check again with you to make sure.

• I remember than 1 year ago I contacted him and ask him how I can get his book, which was out of print.

• Finally, I got it from Bible Truth Publishers from Canada – it was second hand but in a good condition.

• I really appreciated Darby's life and what the Lord was doing in his life and I am interested to know more about him.

• From all the biographies I've read so far, I liked his the best. I really appreciate his writings.

In the Lord, Daniel.

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Hubert Ireland

To: Hubert Ireland
hp_irelandAThotmail.com
Fort Erie, ON, Canada
Mon, 22 Sep 2003

Dear Hubert,
Welcome to 'My Brethren'. I'm glad you enjoyed the ministry here on MB and trust you will return and continue exploring.

• You are certainly right that "you can never learn too much". And as we learn we become formed in the features of Christ by the Spirit.

It would be good to hear from you at any time. Please don't hesitate to write again.

In our Lord, Gordon.

Your guest entries and messages will show that the continuation of My Brethren is important to you.

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