“The Roman Anti-Christ,” by Rev. F. S. Leahy
price 4d. per copy, and published by the National Union of Protestants, Howard Buildings, 26 Howard Street, Belfast. There is a sub-title to this publication, viz., “A Study in II Thessalonians ii, 3-8.” The author points out in his introduction: “In this little pamphlet we endeavour to present as concisely as possible, and in popular form, the Protestant interpretation of II Thess. ii, 3-8 . . . Our intention is to show that II Thess, ii, 3-8, applies point by point to the Papacy as centred in and represented by the Pope.” We recommend the purchase of this pamphlet which undoubtedly makes interesting reading and is suitable for enclosing in letters to friends. In our opinion, the author has succeeded in his intention to publish a concise and informative study of this passage of the Word of God.
A Blessed Memory. A memoir of the late Charles James, by J. Raven
Messrs. C. J. Farncombe & Sons Ltd., 55 South End, Croydon, Surrey; 1s. 6d. post free; 12 copies, 17s. 3d. post free.
“In reading books,” says the worthy John Flavel, “regard not so much the science as the saviour.” In this little biography of a Strict Baptist minister there are no pretensions to science, but rather a straight-forward account of some of the incidents in the life of this man. From the record of these events arises a saviour which will be appreciated by those whose senses have been exercised to discern good and evil. At the age of 20, Charles James evidently underwent that great change apart from which there is no salvation. “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God,” (John iii, 3). In his being awakened to a sense of his sin and misery, he was, as it were, condemned out of his own mouth. On being asked the question, “Can you pray?” he answered in the following words, “You might as soon ask the Devil to pray as me.” His own words entered his conscience and the truth of his lost estate was realised. From his guilt and misery, he could find no deliverance until he was brought to the fountain opened for sin and for uncleanness. In the blood shed for the remission of the sins of many, he found, by the teaching of the Holy Spirit, what could wash him and make him whiter than snow. The reality of Charles James’ religion was proved by his separating himself from those who abode not in the doctrines of God’s Word. Christ, His Word and His Cause occupied a pre-eminent place in his mind, and he carried his principles with him into his daily employment. Thus, when worldly advancement was offered him, he ultimately refused it on the ground that its responsibilities left him but with little time for spiritual employments. On his making this choice, his employer gave him a cottage rent free for life as a token of his esteem. Enabled by divine grace to obey the exhortation, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,” he realised the fulfilment of the promise, “and all these things shall be added unto you,” (Matt. vi, 33). He eventually became a preacher with the Strict Baptists in England and apparently did not run unsent.
The brochure is neatly printed and contains some letters written to Mr. Docter of Holland. An appreciative appendix is written by Mr. H. C. Carr. We think it is to be regretted that our English friends persist in the use of the word “Sunday” instead of the more scriptural “Sabbath” or “Lord’s Day.” We trust this little memoir will find a ready sale among the readers of the Magazine.—Donald Maclean.