In reply to what a correspondent wrote to us, Mr. J. B. Stoney has written the following, which he allows us to use here: ―
MY DEAR BROTHER, ― ... As to the construction put on my statement at Quemerford, I said I did not press the Lord to come, though I never lost the expectation of His return out of my mind. I looked for it during my lifetime, but I could not press it, seeing the state of preparation of the saints, and that I did look for more of the bridal character in separation from things and people which would not suit Him. I was contending against the sentimental refuge or cloak for every mixture and incongruity― “Oh, I wish the Lord would come,” or “O the Lord is coming, and when He comes all will be right.” Doubtless all will be right then, but he will hold each one responsible, and the teacher in a double way for the way the saints are when He comes. I certainly would say “Come” to Him in reply to His saying “I come quickly,” but in doing so I should trim my lamp, and exhort others to do so, or I should not think this “Come” a genuine, truthful expression. I say there are “marks” so distinct and palpable in those waiting for the Lord, that I can’t believe that anyone who has them not is waiting for the coming or return of the Lord. When I insist on the coming of the Lord it is to provoke a going forth to meet Him with trimmed lamps: like Elijah’s last day, and effected in a day. Is it not? ―Yours affectionately in the Lord,
J. B. STONEY.