DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS:—There is one command of our Saviour which I fear has been almost forgotten in these last days. It reads thus: Moreover if thy brother trespass against thee go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone. Matt. xviii, 15. In this chapter we are exhorted not to expose the faults of our brethren or sisters to the world, or even to the church until we have first spoken to them alone, and then in the presence of two or three. How often is this exhortation forgotten by those who profess to believe that the coming of Christ is at hand. Where is that brotherly love that should exist among us? or where is that Christian confidence which we should have in each other? Alas, I fear it is not among us now, as it should be.
The Saviour tells us that if we love one another, all men will know that we are his disciples. Is not this the way in which to let our light shine before men, that they, seeing our good works, may glorify our Father which is in heaven? The Saviour has commanded us to love one another as he has loved us. If we obeyed this command, should we be heard complaining of each other to those who know not God? O no; for that is not the way to do good to those who sin against us. The apostle James tells us not to grudge one against another, lest we be condemned; and then he tells us, as a reason why we should not disobey this command, that the Judge standeth before the door. Dear friends, let us love one another; for love is of God; and try to be as united as we can; and may God grant us the aid of His Holy Spirit. The enemy is trying all he can to cause divisions among us, and thus weaken our influence. Alas, he has been too successful in some places.
Dear brethren and sisters, I think it is time for us to lay aside all the little differences that exist between us, and be united on the one grand theme of the coming of Christ. Let us show to all by our actions that this world is not our home, and that we expect soon to see our Saviour coming in the clouds of heaven. Let us all join in prayer to God for the outpouring of his Holy Spirit, and soon we shall see a change that will be delightful to all those who love the Lord Jesus.