God with us!
"For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them ." -Matthew 18:20 [KJV] What an encouraging declaration is this of our Jesus, to prompt the faithful to meet together on the Lord's day; or in short, any day, at all times, and all places. Observe, my soul, how sweet the Lord speaks; 'There am I in the midst of My people; not by My word only, not as represented in ordinances, not by the ministry of My servants, but I Myself spiritually. The calls, the motions of grace felt in the heart, the tender tokens, the manifestations of My suitableness, fulness, and all-sufficiency; these are all truly Mine, which, by the influences of My Spirit, I communicate among you.' Oh, precious, condescending Lord, now we see what it is that constitutes a true gospel church—even Thy presence. Thou art the beauty and glory of it; and from Thee alone all power and efficacy is derived. Thy churches are, indeed, as Thou hast taught, the golden ...