THAT the present moment is, in the last degree, critical for the Church of God, none scarcely would be found to deny.
The desire, under divine grace, of those who have undertaken the present publication, is to meet the need of the Church in the position in which it is actually placed, by the communication of that truth (according to the measure in which it is given them), which the grace of God has furnished in the word for this as for every time of His Church's need. They are ready to receive any communication which may minister to this.(provided it be according to truth and godliness), though it should not be precisely according to their own thoughts in every point, leaving each writer responsible for his particular view: yet they would carefully watch that nothing may escape them contrary to the faith of God's elect, or lowering to the standard of holiness and separation from the world, which becomes the Church of God-the Bride of the Lamb. That standard it is their desire to maintain in the fullest way in all earnestness of purpose and grace. They can only trust. God, to be kept and helped in this case. On the same ground, without sanctioning everything in the original " Christian Witness," and satisfied that God has brought out many things in a clearer light on several important points, yet they cannot doubt that God did by it afford to His Church much true light from Himself, to help it on its way. That grace they would own, and thus far receive, as the proof of God's goodness to the Church. To own the goodness of God, is to receive the blessing of it. But they trust also to be enabled to afford a present testimony, according to the mind of God, towards His Church and Saints now. The rapidity of events, that is, of the development of principles-the principles of this world and of Satan-demand such a light and help to the Saints. Those who have undertaken this publication count upon the goodness of God, however feeble they may be, to supply it. Whatever really assists in the intelligence of Scripture will surely minister to this, and will find a ready place in " The Present Testimony." Their confidence is in the Lord, that He will help them in thus ministering to the need of His Church. Upon His grace they cast themselves, recommending themselves and their labor to the love and prayers of their brethren.
The Editor (for the time being) adds a word:-
He feels and desires to keep intact, his own individuality of responsibility to the Lord Jesus, as Head-and to Him alone. As thus placed, he has, through grace, found fellowship with his brethren, partakers of one Spirit, children of one Father; their servant and fellow-helper, therefore, he would be; yet always under Christ.
While availing himself of all brotherly counsel, as to the details of his duty, he does not feel free to alter anything whatsoever, in any paper, except by request of the writer. At the same time he will feel free to add a note, signed ED., upon his own sole responsibility. EDITOR.
*** As it does not seem to harmonize with the walk of faith to settle " how often such a Part or Number should appear"-let this be left where Faith casts all its burdens.