Editorial – January-March 1999

The New Year that we face is in many senses unique. 1999 is the year of climax for the twentieth century. An atmosphere of imminence and expectancy in society cannot be evaded. The people, as one has said, have ‘caught millennial fever’. The twenty-first century is, for some, frightening; to others the prospect is exciting. The sad fact to us, as we examine spiritual conditions, is only too apparent; men will only increase in their godlessness. Evil men shall wax worse and worse. This is not unwarranted pessimism; we face reality. Yet we have a bright light that shines through the darkness; the blessed hope of the second coming of Christ. The year 2000 A.D. may never dawn for the Christian - we could already be caught up to meet the Lord in the air. It is hoped that the contents of the magazine will help to inspire the anticipation of this joyful hope during the coming year.

In this first issue of the year, we complete some studies begun in 1998. We have been pleased to have a balance of articles on both Old and New Testaments.

‘The Life of Elisha 3’ completes the practical studies by Stephen Rudge. These were a ‘first’ for him - much appreciated. Both ‘His Own Son’ and ‘The Mystery of Godliness’ direct our attention to the Person of our Lord Jesus; very timely studies at this season. It is hoped that during the coming year we shall complete the ‘Theophanies’ by Alan Linton. Thus we commend the magazine to the Lord for His blessing. If you enjoy the ministry, why not tell others? Indeed, why not tell us? We have appreciated the continued support of the Lord’s people in every way. ‘Your prayers, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ’ are indispensable, Phil. 1. 19. Keep praying!

PROPHETIC INSIGHTS

We have planned, in the will of the Lord, to include an article dealing with features of prophetic truth in each issue for 1999 and the January issue of 2000. These are designed to stimulate interest and exercise concerning truth connected with the last things.

1. The Rapture and Certainty of Christ’s Coming
2. Antichrist - The Man of Sin
3. What Future for Israel?
4. The Son of Man and the Appearing in Glory
5. The Millennium

It is our desire that amidst all the confusion among believers regarding future events these articles will provide some guidelines in understanding prophetic Scriptures.

What of the world outside? When Christ comes, the day of grace will end. Hope for the unbelieving will end. What a sad world is theirs! The hungry crave for bread; the thirsty long for living waters; the cry of the captives goes up for release; those drawn unto death are lost and hopeless. There is only one answer known to us - Christ and Him crucified.

FAITH

Lord give me faith, to live from day to day
With tranquil heart, to do my simple part.
And, with my hand in Thine, just go Thy way.

Lord give me faith, to trust if not to know,
With quiet mind in all things Thee to find.
And, childlike, go where Thou wouldst have me go.

Lord give me faith, to leave it all to Thee,
The future is Thy gift, I could not lift
The vail Thy love has hung ‘twixt it and me.

J. Oxenham