67. “Η. C. C.,” London. We most cordially agree with all you say in reference to the matter of audible speaking at reading meetings and prayer meetings; indeed at all public meetings. We cannot understand the object of speaking at all if people cannot hear what is said. Assuredly all who take part in the meetings should feel a solemn responsibility as to everyone in the room, to make all hear whatever the Lord gives them to say. We remember hearing, some years ago, of a somewhat striking rebuke administered to a number of brethren at a reading meeting. I suppose they were speaking in a low tone, or, it may be, the friend who rebuked them was a little deaf. However, he simply asked to be allowed to read one verse of scripture; and he opened at the 8th of Nehemiah, and read as follows: “ So they read in the book, in the law of God, distinct!!/, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading” We see the happy result of Ezra’s distinct reading and clear exposition further on in the chapter. “ And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them” May all public readers and speakers learn to imitate Ezra and his companions!
68. “ G. W.,” Moulmein, British Burmah. It seems to us that scripture leaves the question open as to the hour or time of day for the Lord’s supper. It tells us that “ on the first day of the week the disciples came together to break bread;” but as to the hour, it is only by inference we can reach any conclusion. In the early part of the Acts we learn that they broke bread “ from house to house” (κατ οίκον). We do not see any importance in the question as to whether it was morning, noon, or eventide.