INTRODUCTION. If there is one feature of our times beyond others, that especially claims our attention, it is certainly that which gives fulness of expression and intenseness of meaning to the words, "Surely I come quickly." This feature of our times, we think, we find in the many words and works that are reaching us from all quarters, in testimony not only to the pre-millenial advent of The Bridegroom, but also to the imminence of that coming. The reader is here presented with another contribution thereto, and we wish him expressly to bear in mind that, as we have not written dogmatically, so neither have we written exhaustively, but suggestively only; and wherein we have failed to make clear our points, or seem to have spoken offensively to any, we shall be glad to give such explanation, or make such reparation, as may seem desirable. We have written not to promote reasoning upon, but to provoke readiness for, that coming. We are more concerned to discover truth, and to enforce it practically, than to establish favourite theories-our own or other men's; and to our thinking, the day is too far spent to waste time in attempts to reconcile opposing theories. To devout, earnest, and intelligent readers, then, we would say, If our lines of thought agree to any extent with your own, let us be mindful that "a man can receive nothing except it be given him of God." "Whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule; let us mind the same thing; and if in anything we be otherwise minded," let us agree to wait on Him that He may show us what is most according to His mind, and so shall the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace be preserved. Let us not, however, be content with seeing together, but ever be mindful of the words, "If ye know these things happy are ye if ye do them;" let us be concerned to get ready ourselves, to hold ourselves in readiness, and so far as in us lies to influence for readiness others too, "that, when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, we may receive a crown of life that fadeth not away." Yours to serve in the Lord, Devonshire Road, Hackney, London, E. N. STARKEY. Something like competitive examination for greater or less reward ... ... Pre-millennial assize distinct from post-millennial assize ... Alas for the Day! for the Day of the Lord at hand! |