We, at Assembly Testimony 1, find it almost incredible that this is the ninth book in what has become known as ‘The Glory Series’. In fear and trembling we published the first book in 2006 and have been greatly and very pleasantly surprised by the warm response these publications have attracted. Letters of appreciation from the four corners of the globe have been most uplifting and give a lot of encouragement to continue the publication of these books as the Lord enables. An additional witness to their value is the fact that they are now being translated by missionary brethren to assist in the work of the Lord in foreign lands.
The subject matter of this book will be of interest to all believers. Is there a sweeter subject for our meditation than the excelling glory of our Lord Jesus Christ? He Who became the least in the kingdom, Matt.11.11, has now become the highest. He is “Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come” Eph.1.21; “He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things” Eph.4.10. None can deny His right to this position. What a day it will be when all those gathered round the throne in heavenly glory unite to sing His praise and worthiness! “And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands; Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing” Rev.5.11,12.
- The only song in that blest place
- Is “Thou art worthy! Thou alone!”;
- (Archibald Rutherford)
These books could never have been published without the willing participation of the authors and their diligent, careful, time-consuming study. It is a daunting experience to be confronted with a blank sheet of paper, or in these technological days, a blank screen having accepted the responsibility of authoring a chapter on an allocated subject. However, our authors have devoted the time required, often having to sacrifice other engagements, and we most thankfully acknowledge their highly valued contributions. Their love for the saints of God can be highlighted by the fact that none of the contributors receives any reimbursement for their work. Their reward awaits them. This will include their families who sacrificially support their husbands and other family members.
We also express our deep indebtedness to a team of dedicated proof readers. These beloved brothers and sisters spend hours reading, correcting and suggesting improvements and as a result, we have a volume that is worthy of publication. As we frequently explain, because of the nature of the authoring of the books, when no author sees what another is writing, it is inevitable that there is a measure of overlapping. This is no bad thing since it impresses truth on the reader’s mind. Finally we must convey our gratitude to all who support this work financially. When we commenced publication of books 10 years ago, we were told it could not be sustained! We know the truth of Phil.4.19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
It is our prayer that, not only will this book be educative and enlightening, but that it will be edifying to the saints and will be glorifying to Him Who is exalted to heaven’s throne. We look forward to the day when, “He shall bear the glory” Zech.6.13.
Brian Currie, N. Ireland, April 2016
- 1. ‘Assembly Testimony’ is a bi-monthly magazine which is available on request from:
John Gordon, ‘Elhanan’, 25 The Rowans, Banbridge, Co. Down, BT32 4DQ, N. Ireland.
His e-mail address is: johngordon-at[at]hotmail[dot]co[dot]uk