Q. Do the treasure and the pearl in Matt. 13:45-46, teach different truths?
A.-We believe that the symbols used in the verses referred to both picture the same thing; that is, the saints of the present dispensation, or, in other words, the church. Under the symbol of the treasure the preciousness of the church to Christ is set before the eye; under that of the pearl; her beauty as seen by Him who loved her and gave up Himself and everything He had, as the Messiah, to possess her.
Q.- What is the meaning of Matt. 11:12, and Luke 16:16, and in what way do the violent take the kingdom of heaven by force, and men press into it?
A.-The kingdom of heaven here is looked at as a position of blessing on the earth, though connected with heaven where the King is. Into this actual and manifested relation to the King those who believe in Christ had to "force" their way in spite of all the opposition of Satan; they have not merely to enter it, but to "press" into it, because there is a force opposing their entrance. It looks at the responsible side of the path of faith, and while grace, of course, alone can enable the believer to enter into and sustain such a conflict, yet he has by personal and spiritual energy to gain the position he seeks for. The opposition of Satan in this world to Christ and His kingdom is a very real thing, and if we do not meet him and pass over him, as "the violent" and as those who by force "press" on, there is no getting into the kingdom. It is really what persecution means, and under this, for present, as well as future blessing, there must be faithfulness to Christ. (Compare Rev. 2:12.)
Q.-Is it scriptural for one to give thanks, another to break the loaf? J. M. H.
A.-Luke 22:19 certainly gives no ground for it, nor does 1 Cor. 11:24. Still, we have known those in great repute break the bread after another had given thanks, and, therefore, we should not like to say it was wrong, though we should not feel happy to do it ourselves. C. W.