This volume contains notes of various readings and addresses given by Mr. Darby. It is profitable worthy of the time spent reading its pages.
It contains two especially helpful readings in which Mr. Darby gives a simple overview of Revelation, answering many questions. And, in a reading at Edinburgh, “the church and the camp” is considered in a short and concise five-page article.
Mr. Darby’s concise responses to questions are refreshing. The following excerpt from a reading on Hebrews 7 is typical of much of the volume.
Ques. Who was Melchisedec?
Ans. Melchisedec.
Ques. Was he Christ?
Ans. No; because he was “made like unto the Son of God.” He is purposely made mysterious.
Ques. What of his descent?
Ans. I don’t know. He is put there, and that is all I know, with neither beginning of days nor end of life as to priesthood.
Ques. What is the normal idea of priesthood?
Ans. “To offer gifts and sacrifices,” it says in Hebrews.
During another reading, the subject of practical Christianity was brought up. The following is an excerpt: “I had slipped, when in Canada, and broken my spectacles and someone kindly gave me a gold pair of glasses. I took them and thought no more about them, for one does not look a ‘gift horse in the mouth,’ as the saying is. But [when visiting the assembly] in ________ the brethren meet in a rather dark place, and I used my [gold] glasses.
“The other day I got a letter from dear _______ telling me he had spoken to a local brother there about all the many rings [he wore] on his fingers that they are vanity. At once the brother answered, ‘Oh, they are not a bit worse than Mr. Darby’s spectacles!’ Got another pair since!”
Ed.