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PART 2

1898 through 1899
The Matthew 10 Study
Revised December 18, 2022

1898  AND  1899 – The Revival Continues

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1898

JANUARY, 1898:  In the little town of Borrisokane there is a small Methodist Church, where [worshipped] met a little assembly of godly believers, who loved to see souls saved [people converted]; and prayed earnestly for a Revival. My former superintendent, S.W.H. Nesbitt, who left Roscrea, and was stationed at that time in Borrisokane.  He was an evangelical man who refused to take the title of "Reverend," [and why not all the ministers do the same thing? My present superintendent W. B. Merrick will not wear a clerical suit, and why do not all ministers do the same thing?]

[Nesbitt opened] He threw his church open for a mission; also two Godly women, sisters named Mrs. Gaynor and a Miss Rodgers opened their home to receive the Pilgrims. On hearing about the success [Revival] in Nenagh, [Rathmolyon, and Roscrea] etc., and also hearing that the Revival was not popular, but a good deal of opposition had arisen against it from unexpected quarters, they came with warm affection to the help of the Lord against the mighty.

We will ever remember that mission held in Borrisokane, as one of the most powerful [and effectual and attractive] and fruitful we ever had. It was very unsectarian in manifestation and operation. It was a real [warm and] conventional time [mission] when many Christian workers took part, and both sowers and reapers rejoiced together over the conversion of sinners, even Roman Catholics. Others who were the Lord’s people [even myself] sought and found a second benefit [or blessing], 2 Corinthians 1:15.  The power that attended the singing of Songs of Victory, was [heavenly and] extraordinary [which is always characteristics of effusions of the Holy Spirit. The having all things common also] The joy in fellowship, and [partaking] at meals proved it to be a taste of Pentecost.

A REVIVAL was in the air, for all the fruits and signs expected from a work of God were seen and felt and manifest. There was a REVIVAL of the salvation of souls, the restoration of backsliders; [also there were cases of] sick healed in answer to prayer. There was a REVIVAL of prayer, praise, and preaching [and testimony]; attended with [giving], good works, self-denial, and hospitality.

[People travelled long distances on bicycles, traps and Irish jaunting cars, not without hazards, hardships and cross bearing. One was called the Missionary Jennet [a horse] because the worthy owner gave her to drive Christians from Cloughjordan to Borrisokane. His fruit was rewarded and his heart cheered by hearing the Christians drive home at midnight hour singing hymns down through the streets of Cloughjordan.]

There was much use made of Bibles, Testaments, texts, tracts, [and the Faith Mission] periodical such as Bright Words. William Irvine took a special interest in circulating [and commending] Andrew Murray’s books, such as Abide in Christ, The New Life, The Ministry of Intercession, With Christ in the School of Prayer, etc.  [Opposition kept within bounds being held back by an overruling providence. Three were old established Christians who stood aloft and were not moved by this revival. One reason perhaps was it did not come in the way they expected and it did not please them in every detail.] [The people stood aloft with awe and wonder, inclined to persecute but afraid to meddle, and the two months mission passed away without any serious hurt. Rome showed herself many a time in trying to upset singing, and persons on the way home.]

We did not march through the street as we did in Cloughjordan, but on some nights, we formed in a circle outside the Church railings on the street and sang hymns. One of the hymns I remember was "I was once far away from the Saviour." A Priest came down and turned away his flock from hearing the Gospel sung in hymn. We were trying to give the Gospel, and he was trying to hinder them from hearing the Gospel. The one for—the other against.]

A Christian commercial traveller, named Edward Cooney [from Enniskillen. He was converted under the preaching of George Grubb, and his brother was one of the seven that constituted the Egyptian Mission Band. Edward was a smart, low, level-headed, educated, aggressive Christian young man of about 32 years of age at that time.]

During his business tours, he met some of the young converts [in Nenagh] and being impressed with the genuineness of their testimony was resolved to meet the Evangelist [with William Irvine] and have an interview with him. That meeting was [an eventful] a loving one and meant much for the Kingdom of God. [In a Christian home before the meeting on the Lord’s day evening, we all met where we had a warm time of prayer, singing, conversation and Christian fellowship. Before the meeting, E. Cooney and I had prayer together under the cover of an arched gateway, when a man came and routed us.] How careful we should be regarding first impressions, as they have real and lasting effects. The memory of which is not easily erased, [and revivals may spring up from a smile of God on a text, a conversation, a prayer, an act of kindness or an event or incident.]

[In the meeting, Irvine asked Cooney to speak a short message and he had not much liberty, but William Irvine spake with much freshness and at the close Edward Cooney said to me that God gave that man Irvine great grace and power, and at that time, it must be acknowledged that it was so. At the close of that eventful mission, as well as at the close of the one in Cloughjordan, there was a Conference in which many Heralds of the Cross took part, also well-meaning Christians who wre graciously moved by the visitation and time of refreshing coming from the presence of the Lord.]

In [this conference] both of them, I was asked to speak, [saying that they wanted me to the front more than ever. I was very nervous and kept looking to the Lord for a message, and God gave me revelation, liberty, and power, and began to establish my way in presence of the Brethren. I have learned by experience when speaking in the presence of great men, never to aim at anything great, but to be as simple as a child. When a King or Prince makes a proclamation and publishes it to the general public and peasantry people, it is done so plainly that he that runs may read for there are no superfluous words used. Why not all do the same?]

[About that time I had the first convert. I had labored for three years out fully in the Lord’s work and vineyard on a sowing and pioneering line without seeing much definite results. A sister in Christ asked me had I spoken to old Mr. Woods about his soul’s salvation. I said, "No." She said, "You ought to." And being impressed with her words, I mounted my bicycle and rode to his house where I met the old man at the door. I asked him definitely was he born again. He answered that he knew it was necessary, but was in doubt about it being his experience. I said to him, "Are you willing to be?" He said, "I am." So I had the privilege of being the instrument of leading him to Christ. This is the substance of our conversation together as far as I remember.]

[About the same time on a road, I spoke to John Cavanagh about his soul’s salvation and found him willing to accept the Saviour. We both went into a field, knelt down in prayer, and he got converted and gave up his situation as a blacksmith and went out fully on the Lord’s work. He afterwards went as a missionary to South Africa. Since then I have heard of his death through an accident.]

Decisions are landmarks never to be forgotten and although the witness of the Spirit is not always given in the event of decision, yet the yielding of the heart and will puts the anxious soul in the attitude towards God where He gives His Spirit to the Believer. Therefore, being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. 5:1. Whom God has set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, Rom. 3:25

MARCH, 1898:  Near the Town of Borrisokane in a country district called Finnoe, there are a [large] goodly number of [Episcopal] Protestant homes. There stands a little Episcopal church where my ancestors lie [are buried] until the resurrection. A farmer named John Burgis, [aka Burgess per Census ] whose house stands near the church offered his barn to William Irvine for a mission. The special REVIVAL efforts [times] continued with lasting results; in that barn, whole families got converted, [namely] including my Aunts, Rosanna Long [who was my Mother’s sister and married to Robert Long, a cousin of my father; a family named Corcorans, Falkiners and Dennisons and others who were swept into this Salvation by the current revival.]

Others were graciously moved to open their homes in order to entertain the Lord’s people and for cottage meetings [who kept prophet’s chambers and entertained strangers.] Among them [who did so] was Sister and Brother Falkiner, Willsborough, Borrisokane, whose whole household got converted and whose home was opened to entertain the Lord’s people, meetings and Conferences. [in whose home we had many meetings, missions and even half nights of prayer. It became our resting place for the Pilgrims, which continued for many years after that memorable mission held in John Burgis’ barn. A Christian Schoolmaster named Dennison got restored; he used his influence and became a fellowhelper of the truth as it is in Jesus. The Spirit of love and loyalty shown to one towards another, in having all things common, proved the extent in which the word and power of God grew and prevailed.

A good deal of opposition arose at that time because [from that time] William Irvine [began to speak] spoke with great authority against the unfaithfulness of the clergy believing that God had raised him up to thresh the mountains. [He did not do this until he had a cause, because of the attitude they took towards him and his work.] Many threw on the brake, but he refused to be corrected by them.

The strain of continuous ministry; also the care and charge of young converts effected much the physical health of the Evangelist who was known to preach for five hours [at a time], all the while holding the attention of his audience [and hold his audience interested all the time. Besides trusting in God for healing,] he was skilfull in being his own physician, and taking natural care, fresh air, and proper food, etc.

Whatever people may say against the man and his work, a grip was taken and a move made that meant many persons passing from death unto life [and from the power of sin and Satan unto God]. It was true that some old truths seemed to be set forth in a new setting, but what matter about that when the fruits were manifested and good. I have no doubt but the clergy opposed him when God was mightily using him as an instrument in reaping the harvest, and his first outspokenness was against their opposition to him.  Whenever any one of them showed any interest to his work and displayed a desire to do the will of God in seeking the lost, or feeding the flock of God with sincere milk of the word, he was sympathetic towards them, as was seen in the case of Wetheral, Crookshanks, Nesbitt, and Douglas.

Concerning the principles of the Doctrine of Christ, he was sound. He believed in the fall of man, [in the necessity of being regenerated], in the Atonement, in the Trinity, in the Divinity of our Lord [Deity of Christ] and [His incarnation, also his meritorious death on Calvary’s Cross for sin and in His resurrection], in the immortality of the soul, in the resurrection of the body, the inspiration of the Bible], in Heaven for the saved [righteous], and in Hell for the lost [wicked]. He believed in a personal Devil, the enemy of God and man. He believed and taught Repentance and that every person can be saved and know it, and that the conditions of Salvation were “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9.

[He believed in the Dedication of Infants and the Ordinances of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. He believed in the free will to marry though he emphisized the unmarried life as the best for Christian Workers. He believed and taught holiness of life. He was very strong on the indwelling of Christ. He also believed in a defenitive anointing of Baptism with the Holy Spirit for power and service. He believed in the ethical and practical fruits of Christian living. He believed that every disciple should have an experience and a testimony for Jesus. he believed in the second advent of our Lord and the Millennium of one thousand years. I have no doubt but that the clergy opposed him when God was mightily using him to reap the harvest in His vineyard let out to Husbandmen.]

[He taught that every saved soul is indwelt by the Spirit of Christ; and that the life of Jesus, is the pattern for everyone to imitate and follow; and that the life of forsaking all for Christ’s sake was the best to live. He laid down that the conditions to workers was sell all and give to the poor, take up thy cross, etc. The conditions he laid down to saints were to keep a home and business, dedicate it to the Lord, and entertain and show hospitality and receive all who went forth in the way that Jesus sent them.

The fruits of that teaching resulted in farmers, shop keepers, domestic servants, school teachers, police, soldiers, and persons of every occupation forsaking all that they had to follow Jesus; and to preach the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. “And John answered Him saying, Master, we saw some casting out Devils in Thy name, and he followed not us, and we forbad him, because he followed not after us. And Jesus answered him saying, Forbid him not; for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me, For he that is not against us is on our part,” (Mark 9:38-40).]     

Whenever any of the clergy showed any interest in his work and displayed a desire to do the will of God in seeking the lost, of feeding the flock of the Lord with the sincere milk of the word, he was sympathetic towards them as was seen in the case of Wetheral, Crookshanks, Nesbitt and Douglas.

[So far, I accepted all this, and as long as they kept to the Scriptural truths and openness til the year 1905 – when these truths were pushed to such an extreme so as to unchristianise all the clergy. The outcome of these truths were that many gave up their situations to go fully on the Lord’s work, some joined the Faith Mission, some joined Robert Todd’s mission in Lister___?, and more went out independently trusting God alone for supplies. And John answered saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name. Jesus answered him saying, Forbid him not, etc. (Mark 9:38-40).]

It was a great privilege for me to get the benefit of this revival and to be a fellowhelper in pointing anxious souls to Our Saviour. It is true that owing to the cause of being weak in body at that time, I neglected sales and some did complain. Nevertheless, souls were of more importance than sales. God was preparing for a more excellent work in the near future. Notwithstanding all the interests of the Mission by the aid of my bicycle, I had some good days in the Colporteur work, and besides my secretary was Evangelical and lenient. In filling in my report, I did not, at that time, do justice to myself, for as well as sales, I should have filled in the number of meetings that I conducted and the number in which I took part. However, I think, he understood and made allowances for me, showing that God was training me for better service in the future [God was preparing for a more excellent work in the near future].

APRIL, 1898:  [By this time in many parts the young converts commenced to work for Jesus and hold meetings and [the testimony of the young converts worked conviction everywhere], and some of them in Rathmolyon began to hold missions themselves. Many persons who were convicted and refused to decide for Christ went back, got worldly and hardened and never truly converted. "Seek ye the Lord" (Isa. 55:6).  Also, there were some persons who opposed the work and severe judgment happened unto them. "Touch not mine" (Ps. 105:15).] [By this time, and many who were convicted and refused to decide for Christ, never got the same opportunity again; and severe judgment happened to some who spoke and acted against the work.]

Two sister Pilgrims were sent on by J.G. Govan, to help at the REVIVAL:  Sister Pendry [Elizabeth Pendreigh] and A. McLean. Concerning women ministry, much has been said for and against it [in the Christian world].  I only contend for it insofar as the Scriptures sanction it. Paul’s liberty, as well as Paul’s bridle, should be considered, 1 Corinthians 11:5; 1 Corinthians 14:34. One should think that a Holy sister may preach the Gospel, according to the Revised Reading Ps 68:11 "The Lord giveth the word," etc."

[There are abundant proofs that God sets His seal upon their ministry],There are abundant proofs that God uses them now, as well as in Biblical times; and the bias of interpretation should go on the side of God’s seal. In Psalm 68:11, the Hebrew text reads thus: [Hebrew Letters]. In English characters it reads thus: Adonai ythen amer ha-mebassheroth tsiba rab.  (Translated: "Of the female preachers, there was a great host." [But for a woman to have authority over a man, or to teach or minister the doctrines of ordinances of the Church while men are present or disturbing a meeting by talking and asking questions that give use to disorder, these presumptions are plainly forbidden in 1 Cor. 14:34, 1 Tim 2:11-13. Also a woman can pray and prophecy in an assembly with her head covered 1 Cor 11:5; otherwise, how could the prophecy of Joel be fulfilled (Acts 2:17) “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.”]

Women’s Ministry

Within the temple service
Brave Anna had a part
Serving her Lord and Master
With an obedient heart.
Selected to this honour
The good news first to tell
She spoke of Christ the Saviour
To souls in Israel.

First, woman was created
Out of the side of man.
To show she is appointed
To do the best she can.
By helping souls to Jesus,
Co-workers on the way;
Then let her tell the story,
Then let her speak and pray.

In public, she’s instructed
These words St. Paul hath said
To respect man’s position
With cover on her head.
Nor should this rule be broken
Although she is set free
And never out of order
Usurp authority.
 

[During this revival, it pleased God to use many of the new pieces in Songs of Victory, they came with great freshness and power and were sung in the home circle, also by the young men at their work in the fields and the young maids at their work in the homes. They were introduced into funeral services and wedding feasts. The ministry of the two Faith Mission sisters was somewhat new in S. Ireland. They were treated with much respect and kindness, especially amongst the Methodist. Their singing, preaching and visiting; also the story of how they were led to Christ carried much weight and conviction. Yet they were strangers and had many hardships to endure—also opposition and criticisms as they went in and out among people. Miss Pendry soon afterwards married Thomas Betty, near Enniskillen, who soon after gave up their home and farm and went fully on the Lord’s work.]

The following are a few of the Hymns selected from “Songs of Victory” which were greatly used and blessed of God at the REVIVAL meetings.

Oh the best friend to have is Jesus
There is Sunshine in my soul today
Under the burdens of guilt and care
Oh how sweet the glorious message
I will say yes to Jesus
I’m more than conqueror through His Blood
Jesus only is our message
From the brightness of the glory
When we walk with the Lord
Joys are flowing like a river
Redeemed how I love to proclaim it
I was journeying in the noontide
Lord through the Blood of the Lamb that was slain
Christ has for sin atonement made
I have given up all for Jesus
Praise Him’ praise Him’ Jesus our blessed Redeemer
God in heaven hath a treasure
Let us sing of His love once again
My heart is resting, O my God
Like a river glorious
Lo we can tread rejoicing
I’ve seen the lightning flashing
More about Jesus would I know
Our God will guide us right
Crown Him with many crowns
Wash me, O Lamb of God
Rich are the moments of blessing
Jesus keep me near the cross
When Israel out of bondage came
Have you any room for Jesus
In tenderness He sought me

[Concerning William Irvine’s tactics [methods] in conducting missions and meetings, something profitable can be learned.] He had no fixed forms or stereotyped methods of prayer, praise, and preaching; yet he did it with order and reverence [yet he always kept his meetings under good liberty and control.]

He seldom prepared his sermons beforehand but was a constant student of the Bible. [He dug deep] and brought forth out of that treasure things new and old. [He was inclined to Spiritualize, but never so as to cause Scripture to contradict itself.] He occasionally threw his meetings open for prayer but [always] encouraged shortness and definiteness. He had plenty of singing, and was careful in selecting hymns suitable for the occasion, and kept young converts at the same ones until they had thoroughly learned them. He always valued God’s gifts in others and utilised any person who could [play or] sing solos effectually to the Glory of God. He seldom had [announced] After Meetings, but tested his meetings [right off] immediately after his sermon, without dismissing his audience and nearly always was successful [was seldom without results]. He often had Testimony Meetings; and encouraged shortness, and up to date testimonies; and always tried to get young converts to speak, sing and pray. Sometimes he closed the meetings by singing the Doxology; and at times made them clasp each other’s hands and sing “Keep me true Lord to Thee.” ["I’ll be true Lord to Thee."]

[Irvine did much in his home and lodging life. People came from all parts to converse with him. He gave out much literature, and was an able correspondent and did much by letter writing and was a swift penman. He was fond of children and animals. He was fond of telling stories and giving illustrations in his preaching. Being of a Presbyterian upbringing, he loved a Psalm and constantly had one in his meetings. He never encouraged a carnal ministry, and he himself laboured to be in the spirit on the Lord’s day and encouraged others to do the same.]

William Irvine was a man who had keen spiritual discernment and knew at a glance where persons were spiritual. At the same time he laboured to help into fellowship with God and seldom lost opportunities of dealing personally with men and women. He seldom alluded to his own works or experiences and never coveted position or worldly honour. Like most great men of God, Elijah among the rest, he was subject to what Charles Spurgeon called “preachers’ fainting fits.” He was a swift witness against pride, vainglory, and hypocrisy, and was a kind friend to the poor and distressed. [He walked with God and spent much time in private prayer and nearly always retained any up-to-date joy in his life. Such was the character of the man when we first knew him, and no wonder that lovers of truth were moved by his testimony concerning the Lord Jesus whom he loved and followed.]

[This mission eventually at length came to a close.] About that time the special services spread into three districts [counties]. The two sisters went to Shinrone [Kings County]; Evangelists Gilbert and Fred Hughes went to [Stony Island] a district four miles beyond Portumna, [Co. Galway;] and Irvine and I went to Templederry.

At the same time God healed us of influenza [I was laid up for a week with influenza], after spending a week resting in my Aunt Jane Bray’s [and Uncle Willy’s] home, Dirrinvohill, Borrisokane. [God healed me and after spending a few days with the Falkiners, I journeyed to Templederry to assist William Irvine in his mission.]

[At Stony Island in Co. Galway, between Portumna and Woodford, there was quite a little revival. Some of them, Brother and Sister Bayley, converted Methodists, opened their home for a mission where Evangelists Gilbert and Hughes had a time of blessing. A number of Protestant families, called "Planters" got converted, including Thomas Turner, a schoolmaster and his sister. He very soon after gave up his school and started out with me during the last four months in the colportage work.] became for a time my companion in travels.

MAY, 1898:  During the Nenagh mission, a draper named James Robinson, and his wife got converted; he opened his home to [the Pilgrims] entertain the Lord’s people. He had in his employment a young woman named Wallace from Templederry, whose parents invited us to have a mission in their home [and invited William Irvine and I to conduct it.]

Templederry is a mountainous district situated between Nenagh and Templemore, [and the mountaineers are a plain phesantry people] where there were a good many Episcopalians [Protestant families scattered up and down the hills and valleys]. In that [country] home, [William Irvine held a mission for three weeks in April 1898, and there was a little revival.]

The commencement was attended with real difficulties, yet God moved in a mysterious way and complete victory was the outcome of prayer and patience. [The first difficulty consisted in that we posted a written advertisement to about 30 homes in an enclosed envelope and put only one half-penny stamp on them. When they arrived, the people in each home had to pay one penny on each letter, as the Post Office had written, "Contains a letter within." On hearing this, to show our neighbours that we were honest, we enclosed one penny to each home, which caused us second labor and expense.]

[The second difficulty consisted is that during the Mission in Borrisokane, a Roman Catholic young woman decided for Christ. She was out of employment and William Irvine, as an act of kindness, paid her fare across to Rothesay [Scotland] to be a domestic servant for John George Govan. She had got as far as Dublin when she was influenced by some enemy of truth and wrote after this manner to William Irvine. "Sir, I have made a grave mistake in attending your meetings and leaving my church which has been honoured with so many martyrs." This is another instance of the influence of Rome against, instead of for Christ, putting Christianity instead of repentance and faith in Christ.]

The enemy came in like a flood, but the Spirit of the Lord lifted up a standard against him. [The third difficulty consisted in the fact that William Irvine said] something hard about the clergy [while conducting a meeting] in the Young Women’s Christian Association Room, Borrisokane. [This would have  been better not said. Also, the lady should not have made a servant of the Lord’s a sinner for a word.] A lady who was then present wrote to Pastor Anderson, the Minister of Templederry, saying that a dangerous man had come into the parish, and while we both were in the home of Sister Wallace, Anderson came in very angry and asked Mrs. Wallace to put us out. Thus, the minister was in one part of the house and William Irvine and I in another praying that God would defeat the Devil.

[n leaving, he refused to have a personal talk with Irvine, which was not Scriptural, for the Bible says "If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone" (Matt 18:15). This Mr. Anderson did not do, so as that from a Scriptural point of view, the accuser was wrong. William wrote a letter to him in haste and sent it by me to Mr. Anderson saying, "Let not the sun go down on thy wrath." The meeting began and while we were inviting the people to come, Mr. Anderson was going] Excited with indignation, he went through [the homes] of his parishioners and advised [warned] them not to attend the meetings. A wise elder of his church said, “Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God" (Acts 5:38-39). [The meetings were at first poorly attended, but the numbers increased as the nights went by. At them, I preached a short message every night followed by Irvine who spoke with great freshness and power. During the day I did a measure of Colporteur work, but I was not strong after the fit of influenza cold.]

That opposition soon ceased, owing to Pastor Anderson’s illness, which happened while we were in the district. [Before the Mission ended, Mr. Anderson took sick and the Sunday after his recovery, we heard him preach from these words, "Man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upwards." During the last nights of the Mission, upwards of 30 persons decided for Christ, and it was my privilege to give them a New Testament each.] That mission ended up with complete victory when many souls decided for Christ, including my Brother Samuel Long, who was a [domestic] servant to the rector [for Mr. Anderson] at that time.

In the little town of Shinrone, Kings County, there is a small Methodist church, where Sisters Pendry [Elizabeth Pendreigh] and McClean [A. McLean] had a mission. They were helped by a Schoolmaster named Benson, and a [Christian] shopkeeper named Davis, [and the Christians in Roscrea came to their help]. Although they had a stiff time when they commenced, it resulted in definite blessing to some, so the work spread [and the Christians got blessed. I can’t recall that there were any conversions.]

JUNE, 1898:  [Wm Irvine and I for the time parted] About that time Irvine went to Maryborough, and I went to Portumna where together with [Evangelist] Gilbert we had a mission in Sister Lowrey’s home. C. B. Stoney of Portland, a converted gentleman, took a great interest in the REVIVAL, wrote in its defence, and contributed to its support [and show who’s side he was on.]. Just as Jordan overflowed her banks all the days of harvest; people’s purses, as well as their hearts, got touched, and there was no lack of money, food, friends, prophet’s chambers, etc.

[During the mission William Lowry got converted. One day while engaged in the Colporteur work, Gilbert and I had a very interesting conversation with a Priest who quoted the old text they always fly to and misapply. "Thou art Peter, and upon this rock," etc. (Matt 16:18). Gilbert only knew two words in Greek "petros" and "petra.". He asked the Priest was Peter’s name "petros" or "petra"? Now "petros" translated means a stone; but "petra" means a rock.  To this the Priest laughed, saying, "I think that you must have been in Trinity College."]

After that William Irvine and I went to Limerick City, where Irvine had a mission in the Young Men’s Christian Association rooms given to us by a Brethren man named Fredrick Wright. It was a stiff mission with some [little] success. [I saw the Evangelist held up, every word was a struggle, when some advanced critics were in the meetings. Pastor Gibb was in a measure sympathetic, so also was C. B. Robertson, the Evangelical Episcopal Minister of St. Mienshows, Lim. City. I went through the city once again, which involved great danger.] One day a raid was made on my books and two men carried off some volumes. I let the thing go and said nothing about it, bearing the loss myself. 

[During our stay in Limerick, we cycled out to Killaloe to see Fred Hughes’ parents for they lived there.] I lost control of my bicycle [down a hill,] and was thrown into the ditch [off onto a bank]. I escaped unhurt but the bicycle was slightly injured. “As many as I love I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore and repent,” Revelation 3:19. [God has marvellously preserved me from serious accidents.]

[JUNE:] About that time, the work became scattered. [However, God’s smile rested on many of the worker who were labouring up and down throughout the land and in many places revivals were manifested.] There was an increase of prayer meetings, also young converts began to hold missions in Meath, Kildare, Tipperary. Some joined the Faith Mission, others joined Todd’s Mission in the Southeast of Ireland, and others went out not connected with any mission. Opposition against the work became more and more manifest, for some clergy favoured it and others opposed it.

As long as the work [Evangelists] kept [open and unsectarian and avoided] exclusiveness, [and were devoted to God], and remained unsectarian in manifestation, they were wonderfully used of God in the [winning souls to Christ] salvation of sinners and the making of disciples, [and helping believers in a fuller experience of Spiritual Blessing.]

At that time, the workers [on the Lord’s Day] occasionally went to the various churches, and at times preached in them whenever the way opened up. This helped to disarm prejudice, and get at the unconverted to win them for Christ, leaving them to the option of their own [choice] will as to where they worshipped and get the most spiritual food [and what denomination they belonged to].

I might here once for all give the meaning of some important ecclesiastical words:

Church: Assembly of believers.
Baptism: To dip or to immerse
Saint: Holy, sacred
Minister: To serve. A bondservant.
Apostle: Sent One
Prophet: Foretelling and forthtelling.
Evangelist: A preacher of the Gospel.
Pastor: To feed the flock. The same as elders, bishops.
Preach:  To proclaim or publish.
Elder: An old man in office.
Bishop: An overseer, or elder.
Deacon: Minister or servant.

JULY, 1898:  At that time William Irvine, Fred Hughes and I went to Kilkee, where we had a mission in the Methodist Church [given to us by] also we had the fellowship of W.B. Merrick, my superintendent in the colportage work. He was a minister who never wore a clerical suit, and rightly so for where in the New Testament do we read of Apostles or elders having any distinction in their dress?

A consumptive young woman named Miss Hodgins from Balymackey, Nenagh, was staying in Kilkee for the good of her health. This young woman and the possibility of her being healed through laying on of the hands the prayer of faith was the burden of Irvine’s thoughts. [One Lord’s day after preaching on Divine Healing, Irvine and I went to her lodgings, prayed with her.] While there William Irvine laid his hands on a delicate young woman [her commending her to God for complete cure] and God healed her. [From that time on, she began to recover and as far as I know the Lord healed her.]

[This is Scriptural for it says,] "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." Mark 16:17-18. Divine healing was not taught nor ministered [much] then [throughout the British Isles and in all the world,] even as yet it is only believed and ministered by few: this is strange when the Bible says so much about it!

[During that time, I had some remarkable days in the Colporteur work. Near Carrigaholt I sold 8 Douay Testaments in one day and had many personal talks to individuals about the salvation of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we had some precious times of fellowship in our lodging with W. Irvine.]

[During the Borrisokane Revival meetings, one night in a Young Woman’s Christian Assoc. room, great power rested on the meetings, and a heavenly atmosphere rested on the meeting singing of Hymn 116 Songs of Victory. I was journeying in the noontide during the singing. I made a consecration of my life to do the will of God in my work whatever it costs. None but those who have been in the work know how difficult it is to sell to Romans and do the will of God. The push and aim to sell in some ways debars this, and every revelation and anointing received of God points out the path of His will not along the lines of sales, but along the lines of oral message (Isa 321–??)]

 

JULY, 1898: While in Kilkee we had a Bible reading on Matthew 10. [We spent most of the day in fasting and prayer. William about giving up the Faith Mission, and I about giving up the Methodists and going forth wholly and solely in dependance upon God. Our ideal was beyond that which was possible to carry out in a country and county wherein the majority were Roman Catholics and Matt. 10 must be taken according to the Acts of the Apostles after Pentecost.] It was that Bible [study] reading set me first thinking about going on Faith Lines, [which a few months after that, it took place, and events were leading me on to where I made the final decision.]

It was a very remarkable coincident that Edward Cooney turned up next day, for he very soon after gave up a very good [well-to-do] situation, and distributed thirteen hundred pounds to the poor, and went fully on the Lord’s work, and became a great advocate of preachers going without a stated salary [of Matthew 10 and the Truth as it is in Jesus.] I remember well the friendly debate that Irvine and Cooney had on the Doctrines of Annihilation and Eternal or Everlasting Punishment and Irvine contended to Immortality and individuality of the Soul and the awful reality of eternal punishment.

However, as a guide to preachers, Matthew 10 should only be taken in conjunction with the other Scriptures and Acts of the Apostles after Pentecost. This is a very important point lest young preachers should attempt that which our Lord never meant and run into catastrophe; as in Matthew 10, that tour was only for a few days, to meet a need and prepare the way for His visit to them. Vs. 10-25.

In Matthew 10 they were not to go to the Gentiles, nor to the Samaritans; after Pentecost they were to be “Witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth.” Acts 1:8. In Matthew 10 they were to take neither gold, silver, or brass, in their purses nor any luggage; after Pentecost they used money, and carried necessary luggage. Acts 4:34-35; 21:15; 28:30-31; 1 Corinthians 9:14.

These words “As ye go preach” gave rise to the name “Go-Preacher,” [being a better substitute for the name "Tramp Preachers."] Indeed “Apostle” should be the name instead of [for] “Missionary” [and it means a ‘sent one," for it is mentioned as one of the gifts of our Risen Lord (Ephesians 4:11).] $$

AUGUST, 1898:  At that time, William Irvine left me and went to Galway town; Fred Hughes went back to [his situation] merchandise and [I went to Kilrush where I had some fellowship with W. B. Merrick. One day he and I visited 21 homes on it, selling 13 Douay Testaments. I hope the priests did not pick up the good seed sown, but I am very doubtful about it, judging from past experiences. One of the converts in Portumna, a School Master [Thomas Turner] gave up his situation and came to be my companion in travels. He was a good Christian man, a good singer and preacher, but had weak eyes. I am sure he was not sorry to meet with W. B. Merrick, my superintendent, as he acted a wise counsellor to him and treated him kindly as well.] Thomas Turner joined me and we visited Kilrush, Spanish Point, and Ennis.$$

[Thomas Turner and I removed to Spanish Point and got lodging in the home of Mrs. Brew, a Christian woman who entertained the Church of Ireland Scripture Readers. On the Lord’s Day, we went to see our Roman Catholic neighbors doing penance for their sins at a Holy Well. We went with the object of preaching the Gospel to them, but got no opportunity. A number of them walked barefooted round and round a well till their feet must have been well sore. Poor ignorant creatures. How long will they be kept in darkness? How long will they be deceived by the comments of men and reject the Word of God. Oh my people (Isa 3:12). When will our Roman neighbors see that Jesus did all the Penance on Calvary’s Cross, and said "It is finished." They make much of Christ’s death as an outward show to the eye, but they set aside the merits and power as an act of Faith, and adds to the finished work, human merit and their own good works, which avail nothing.]

While in Spanish Point I spent a day in prayer and fasting, seeking to know the mind of the Lord [as to what I should do regarding] concerning giving up the Colportage work [line] and going out on Faith Lines; [and when I made a real surrender to do the will of God at all costs] I received a very definite anointing of the Holy Spirit, It shed like oil upon my head. [From that time selling began to recede and preaching began to increase from Spanish Point, we removed to Ennis where we spent two weeks. Mr. Merrick gave us the use of the Methodist Church for a short mission, and we were very much concerned about starting street-preaching and open air work…gospel mission.]

SEPTEMBER, 1898:  [Irvine visited Galway town to prepare the way for us.] Our next move was to Galway town, where we were warmly received by the Congregational Pastor, Robert Miller, who gave us the Sea Road Hall, for a mission. [The Christians there very warmly received us.]

[During our stay in Galway], We tried to sell the Scriptures but the people would not buy. One day we left our books at home [bags in our lodging and started on the Athenny Road], and took a Matthew 10 Tour into the country saluting people with the salutation “The Kingdom of God is come unto you” (Matthew 10:7), and calling at the homes with these words, “Peace be unto this house.” Luke 10:5.

[Second Mission:] This might have done well in a Protestant town or country where there was sympathy, but in a Roman Catholic Country such as the rank Romans of County Galway, it was beyond the word of limitation. Go not in the way of the Gentiles (Matt 10:5). We did not go far when persecution of a dangerous kind [I might say persecution] began to arise; notwithstanding some heard us gladly. It is no good sign of Rome being the true church when they persecute them that seek to do them good.

[Tom Turner and I sat down on the road and began to question as to our tactics being the best way of reaching the Romans with the Gospel. Neither Tom or I can ever forget that adventurous and eventful day. Howbeit, our mistake was divinely overruled, and our zeal used of God to stir up conviction and set people thinking about salvation. The cross was in it, and God suffered no man to do us hurt and remarkably preserved our lives for his glory.] 

While in Galway town [on the Lord’s day we had our first experience of street preaching [in] Galway Square where a number of persons spake, namely Robert Millar, Mr. Glasgow, Wilson McClung, Thomas Turner and even I, "Praise ye the Lord."] It is a work that neither gets the sympathy nor the support that it deserves; it is a splendid way of training young disciples if they cultivate the practice of not speaking too loud, fast, or long [and many are reached by the open-air with the gospel missions that are not reached inside meetings and gospel missions.] Street Preaching and personal conversation, are the most powerful and straightforward methods of reaching Roman Catholics with the Gospel, whether they will hear, or whether they will reject. The preachers have faithfully done their work and the responsibility rests with themselves; and is without burdens and expences. In defence of it [street preaching] from a Scriptural standpoint, I have written this piece:

Hear me ye chosen sons of men
And I will now declare
Things that occurred in Bible times
Out in the open air.

When Abram came to Canaan’s land
The Perizzites were there
He built an altar to the Lord
Out in the open air

On Sinai’s mount the Lord came down
His name He did declare
He spread His terror all around
Out in the open air

Elijah prayed on Carmel’s mount
When all was dry and bare
Until the rain came down in showers
Out in the open air.

Upon a pulpit made of wood
Which Ezra did rear
He read the Bible to a crowd
Out in the open air.

A prophet preached in Nineveh
God’s judgments did declare
It caused the people to repent
Out in the open air

On Christ’s birth day the angels sang
A carol sweet and rare
Announcing that our Lord was born
Out in the open air.

Upon the mount, meek Jesus sat
And taught the people there
The grandest Sermon ever preached
Out in the open air.

Bring me the loaves our Saviour said
He for their need did care
He fed a multitude with bread
Out in the open air.

That virtue flowed to some poor soul
Our Saviour did declare
To this a woman testified
Out in the open air.

Now many years have passed away,
And I am still preserved.
Mercy and truth they followed me,
Much more than I deserved.

Jesus, the keeper of my soul,
Exalted now must be;
He ever lives to make me whole,
Until His face I see.

---

“Arise go unto Nineveh, that great city, and preach unto it the preaching that I bid thee.” Jonah 3:2.

In Simon’s ship our Saviour stood
By Galilee so fair
He spoke in parables to men
Out in the open air.

On Calvary’s cross our Saviour died
Delightful news to hear
For sinners He was crucified
Out in the open air.

Out of a rock a cave was hewn
They laid His body there
He rose again from Joseph’s tomb
Out in the open air.

He led them out to Olives mount
And bade them wait in prayer
A little cloud hid Him from sight
Out in the open air.

Brave Peter preached on Pentecost
To crowds of people there
Three thousand people turned to God
Out in the open air

“Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.” Luke 14:21.

Good Philip took a walking tour
He and His Lord knew where
To point an anxious soul to Christ
Out in the open air.

St Paul did preach the word of God
Upon a Market square
Men are Redeemed through Jesus Blood
Out in the open air.

God did open Lydia’s heart
In that sweet place of prayer
To hear the Gospel preached by Paul
Out in the open air.

I ‘m not ashamed to own my Lord
Who did my burden bear
And tell what Jesus did for me
Out in the open air.

When Jesus comes to take us home
For Him let us prepare
With rapture we shall be caught up
Out in the open air.

“And passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea,” Acts 8:40.

OCTOBER, 1898:  [We next in order visited Clifden, where we could not do much, and the Methodist Minister at that time did not give or show us much friendship or sympathy in that town. He was somewhat negative. Howbeit, John Ludlow from Loughrea took our part and defended our work. When we all met in a Christian home (drapers) for tea, we could not help the condition of things, as we were in a part where there were very few Protestants, and the Romans refused to buy and were inclined to mildly oppose, and what we did do was unknown to him.] After a visit to Clifden, where we could not sell, for it seemed as if God was closing the door for sales, but another door, a great and effectual one opened up.

Pastor B. Merrick treated Tom Turner very kindly and when he paid me my salary of £1 a week, he allowed Tom T a half 10/? a week. This helped to pay his lodgings besides some gifts that were given to him.

We returned to Ballinasloe, on [the first week of October, being] the week of the great fair, [one of the largest in South of Ireland]. [At this great fair,] we got a little table and placed our books upon it, yet no person bought from us. Thomas Turner, my companion [started to sing] sang a hymn, and a crowd gathered [to listen] but our success was hindered by the interference of the man whose house was opposite our stand. [He got hostile and ordered us away and to take our stand away. Having to do this raised a question as to his authority for meddling with us at all. While preaching under the agricultural hall, water and chaff were thrown on us, and we got a sprinkling, but did us little harm. The Methodist Minister, Pastor Munton, stood by us and said that right should be defended.]

[Pastor Munton stood by us and said that right should be defended. He was a Methodist Preacher then stationed in Ballinslow and Aughrim. The Congregational Minister of Galway, a] Robert Miller [by name] from Galway town came to our assistance. He was one of the original pioneer preachers in Galway City, together with a brother named Coughlan. He suffered blows for the Word of God and testimony of Jesus Christ.  On hearing of our adventures in Ballinsloe, he came at once to our help. We had three days preaching on the streets during the fair week with very little opposition.

[Third Mission: Following this, Tom Turner and I had a mission in the Methodist Church in Aughrim. As far as I remember, there were some good results among the young, and some of the orphan children decided for Christ. Sister Storey was always in the attitude of giving encouragement to evangelists. From there we cycled to Stony Island, where we had another weeks meetings in the home of Sister Thomas Bailey, one of the Methodist Planters in the district, who kept a Prophets Chamber for the Lord’s people]

NOVEMBER, 1898:  After preaching in Aughrim and Stony Island, we went to Birr. [The town of Birr, Co. Offlay (formerly Parsonstown, Kings County), though not called a city, had nearly all the qualities that go to make one up. It covered a square mile of area. It had a jail and Quarter Sessions. It contained a very large Military Barricks. It had its high schools and Music Training Halls. Outside stood the Earl of Rosse’s domain, wherein was contained the largest telescope in the world–now out of date and the Spectrum is in the British Museum. The Protestant population in Birr and its suburbs are numerous, wherein lines many of the upper class and aristocracy, some who made you feel that they were of a superior cast and upbringing, as class distinction at that time in the South of Ireland was very conspicuious.]

Here we again met with William Irvine who was having a mission in Soldiers’ Home, given to him by Brother Elgie, a worthy saint of the Lord [devoted Christian and a Holy manwho kept a Mission Hall and a place of rest for the soldiers. On hearing of the revival in Roscrea, Rathmolyon, Nenagh, Portumna, Cloughjordan and Templederry, he invited Irvine to have a mission. Pastor Robertson, a Godly Methodist Minister then stationed in Birr was also interested and waited to see God’s work revive.]

[That song of Redemption struck and was made a blessing to many who heard him in his lodging; and also proved that W. Irvine believed in the Atonement and the wonderful Redemption wrought out by Our Saviour’s Blood, once for all shed on Mt. Calvary. In his lodgings, many came to him and went away benefitted as the outcome of his joy and his word, and I am of the opinion, the best part of the mission took place there.] That was the only mission in which Irvine said, so far as he could judge, there was no conversions; in years afterwards I heard of a woman who was converted at that mission [who testified to a person that she knew got converted at that mission proving that when there are no visible results at the time, there may be unseen results made manifest afterwards.]

[At the same time, Tom Turner and I removed to Birr, and] while there, I resigned the Colportage work [for the Limerick district. It was there also that I received the baptism with the Holy Ghost and Sister Lindsay and Clement were some of the first to show me hospitality and put me up freely for the works sake.]   

The last day I spent in it, I sprained my foot through a fall off my [a Cushen Tyne] bicycle. God let me off with chastisement tempered with  mercy. This laid me aside for the last two weeks in November. During these days I spent them with William Irvine in his lodging, during which he washed and bathed my feet in warm water. Six years passed away, and he met with a bicycle accident, and sprained his foot, in Warrington, and he came to my lodging, and I washed his feet. In the Colportage work wherein I spent three years and nine months, besides the other features of it, in round numbers I must have sold, and circulated upwards of 100,000 literature, from the Bible to the tract; and although I gave up the selling, it was by no means a finish of my literature experience, but rather God blessed it. I presented them—[did] not sell them.

No matter what way a Christian Evangelist may try to reach Roman Catholics with the Gospel of the grace of God, as long as they are true to the principles [beliefs] of their church, they cannot be delivered into the liberty whereby the truth doth set men free.

I venture to say there is less danger and persecution to the Missionaries [among the heathens] in China, India and Africa. And next to Mohammedans, the Romans are the hardest people in the world to Evangelise, and the South of Ireland are not behind. And while we deplore the abuse and negligence of Protestants who have the truth, but have rejected the power of it, yet we cannot value enough that liberty of access to God through Jesus Christ, the one Mediator; and the free use of an open Bible for which the Martyrs shed their blood.

[Whatever may be said about the manner and tactics of William Irvine, at that time, he was no man-pleaser and did not compromise the truth and feared not the face of man. It cannot be said that at that time he was out of communion or fellowship with God. All who saw and heard his testimony in his lodgings bear witness to the reverse; that the joy and sweetness of his fellowship at that time none of us can easily forget and was manifested in that Hymn sang so often, "He redeemed me." The sympathetic spirit manifested by a man whose personal influence carried  great weight and amounted to much, attracted many to come to him in order to get spiritual blessing. This, at the time was attended with humour and cheerfulness so pleasant and harmless.] We cannot forget the joy of his private life and the effects and fruits of a single chorus, “He Redeemed me, He Redeemed me.”

[The mission was well attended, but the audience were critical, proud, hard and slow to move; and every tact and talent of the Evangelist were tested, yet he spake with authority and power. We cannot forget his sermon on Daughters of Zion (Isa 11:16-23). Of course, this was not well received well by some, yet it showed up the condition of things and ended to bring down pride and produce a humility in the people of God.]

[During that mission, we had a visit from Angus McKenzey, the Secretary for the South American Evangelical Mission. He made a good impression regarding his perfection and caution in speech. He, too, got taken up with the chorus "He redeemed me." On the event of leaving Birr, we all saw him to the station and W. Irvine, in the act of bidding his friend good-bye, was speaking words of cheer and encouragement which roused the temper of a Roman, who put his head out through the carriage window and cried out to the Porters to put that man out off the platform. The Porters came to W. Irvine and asked the question, "What did you say that made him mad?" Irvine said, "I was only saying to my friend to keep praising God." The Porters said, "Well, he should not be angry with you for saying that."]

[This is another instance of the hostility of the Romans and how some of them treat a man of God and cannot bear the truth and hate the light because their deeds are evil. Yet there is a difference among them for what roused one man, the others smiled at and were affected by it. The Word of the Lord and the Testimony of Jesus always divide and produces two classes: a positie and a negative. There were many causes for me resigning the Colportage work. The first and primary cause was, as stated before, I had conscientious convictions of selling to the Roman Catholics because of certain facts.]

[The second was that conscientious troubles seemed at times to the hinder Spirit-full-life, and the work was partly one of bondage hard on body and soul.]

[The third was that the Society pressed for sales, at a time when God was using me otherwise, and it was growing harder and harder to sell among the Romans. Returned visits in many cases showed me that the actions of the Priests towards the Scriptures and the Colporteurs had turned the people against them and harm was done instead of good.]

[The fourth cause was that circumstances were leading me on to a more excellent way, as was manifested in the recent revival of which W. Irvine and I were pioneers and now the time for me to step out into liberty had fully come. Yet I do not regret or undervalue the experience I have had, for nearly four years in that work and the kindness and help showed to me by Mr. S. Nesbitt, W. Merrick and many other Christian friends in the Methodist Church. They will get their reward at the resurrection of the Just.]

The experiences and trials of that time gave me courage and a training for visiting personal dealings, street preaching, and literature that will be a life-long value and I am sure that there are and will be results as the outcome of this sowing that only eternity will reveal. To God be all the glory.

DECEMBER, 1898:  William Irvine, Thomas Turner, and I went to Roscrea, to have a mission in the Methodist Church given to us by Pastor Crookshanks. [It was more for Christians than for the unsaved and Charles Crookshanks and William Treanor very wisely stood aside to let the Spirit of God work. Ben Boles, a shopkeeper from Roscrea and John Sullivan, a School Master from Moneygall, gave up their occupation to go fully on the Lord’s work. Irvine was rather severe, for he spoke against the 20th Century Fund, which was in operation at the time. It was the aim of the Methodist Church to produce One Million Pounds towards the funds of this Church. This, of course, did not please many of them who in other respects were sympathetic.]

Much good was done by personal talks and prayer meetings in the day time. [The best work connected with the Mission was done in the quiet home of Mr. Bourke who cordially had entertained the Pilgrims. Here John Sullivan, Ben Boles and his wife, Tom Turner and others got instructed in the ways of the Lord more perfectly which prepared them for future service. Many sisters also who loved the Lord came to hear the word of God read and expounded and to get a drink of the living water so freely.] Willie Gill from Rathmolyon paid us a visit and went to a shop and made me a present of a new overcoat, and soon after that, Ben Boles, Willie Gill and John Sullivan gave up their situations to go fully in the Lord’s work. I went out to the country and called on some Protestant homes, read and prayed with them and gave them tracts. "She hath done what she could."

Thomas Turner succeeded me in the Colportage work for one month, when he resigned and went as an Evangelist on Faith Lines. Through the instrumentality of Goodhand Pattison, Cloughjordan, he and Brother [Alex] Givan, went to the West of County Cork, where God blessed their labours in the Salvation of souls and a little revival took place. In most of these places and districts visited with a revival during this wonderful year of Grace, 1898, the work was carried on and built up by cottage meetings in which Elders, local preachers became aggressive. Also young converts got an opportunity of prayer, praise and testimony, and from that time, many counties in the S. of Ireland were in one ferment of revival.

While there I took a walking tour from Roscrea to Templederry, and returned again [to Nenagh on a walking tour on Matt. 10 lines] in about eight days. I called at some Roman houses [without the books], and told them [that God had sent me to tell them] to Repent and believe the Gospel. [On the whole], they received the message well. [There was no manifestation of opposition.] John Sullivan, Mr. Baskerville and Mrs. Wallace and Mrs. Robinson received me and put me up for the night freely for the work’s sake. The cross was very great in this walking tour. Howbeit, we cannot tell what impresions were made nor what the results will be. In Mr. Baskerville’s home, I got preaching the gospel on the way. My faith at first was very weak.

George Caleb Grubb originally came from the town of Cahir, County Tipperary. In an English College in Germany, while reading John 3:16, he was led to trust our Lord Jesus Christ and so got converted. He entered the Episcopal Ministry and was a Rector in the Church of Ireland. He was one of the first to welcome Moody & Sankey on the occasion of their first visit to Ireland. He gave up a salary of £350 and went out on Faith Lines. From Keswick, he and six others took a tour to Cape Town, Ceylon, Australia, New Zealand, S. America and Canada. On both their first and second tours (Missions), God used him and his co-workers very much. He is a tall man of a very large experience. During the experiences in Nenagh and Roscrea, we had the privilege of hearing and seeing this great man of God.

Street Preaching and personal conversation, are the most powerful and straightforward methods of reaching Roman Catholics with the Gospel, whether they will hear, or whether they will reject. The preachers have faithfully done their work and the responsibility rests with themselves; and is without burdens and expences.

Faith Lines

My faith at first was very weak
It faltered by the way
But in the will of God I stood
Encouraged day by day.

By His own hand He led me on
Exploits I tried to do
The people laughed, and said he’s mad
Ink with the wine that’s new.

Long walking tours from place to place
Till God did bid me stay
Telling that I was saved by Grace
To people by the way.

Following verses were added later:

Now many years have passed away,
And I am still preserved.
Mercy and truth they followed me,
Much more than I deserved.

Jesus, the keeper of my soul,
Exalted now must be;
He ever lives to make me whole,
Until His face I see.

[Towards the end of the year 1898] The mission ended with an all-day conference [held in Nenagh Methodist Church. Christian workers and young converts came from all quarters] that was attended by many noble servants of the Lord. Among the speakers was George C. Grubb, whose testimony [testified to giving up his salary] concerning going on Faith Lines [and the least God ever gave him in the year was £120 and the most was £3,500, but he did not keep it for himself] helped me to make the final decision that night. There was an excellent day of prayer, praise, preaching and deep spiritual blessing rested on the Word through his consecreated servants.

[But why should a gospel tract cause anger— as it will do no harm? and if read may do a lot of good. Though I cannot remember the exact date of these conferences, yet the certainty of  them being held about that time is well remembered by me. The Roscrea conference followed Nenagh and quite a little Keswick people from all denominations attended. So mighty grew the Word of God and prevailed. There were represented Episcopalians, Methodists, Presbyterians, Brethren and Faith Msision.  Other ministers were present; besides Crookshanks, Nesbitt, Douglas, there were Kirkwood and Moore from Malbouragh and Mountwrath and G. C. Grubb. Besides these were Evangelists Gilbert, Barbour, Turner and Long, etc. and a large number of elders, such as Falkiner, Eljie, Roan, Pattison, Robinson, as well as very worthy sisters.]

[Both in the missions and conferences, C. Crookshanks acted very wisely and manifested an unsectarian Spirit. At these conferences, there were times of prayer, praise, preaching and testimony. Some spoke long and dreary and some short and to the point. G. C. Grubb’s message was instructive, but seemed to lack the power that attended his word in Nenagh. Tom Turner and I spoke a short message; Turner’s was with weight and power. William gave his last message in the Methodist Church with contrition, humility and feeling, and it made a good impression on the minds of Johnston Stoney and other gentlemen who were present. My Mother came with me to that conference and I cannot forget what a narrow escape she and I had of being late for the train which was leaving the platform when we arrived. Someone opened the carriage door for us and some one else was behind pushing us in.]

William Irvine left the conference with a broken spirit and a tender heart, as being  a man of foresight, he knew that unless there was an Ecclesiastical Reformation among the Clergy, it would mean a coming out from the Churches as they were and seeing that in dress and titles, they were unwilling to reform, the only alternative for the new revival was to come out from among them and be separate, as the people called the Brethren had done a generation before them.

As time went on, the growing opposition to the work tended to drive it in that direction and had they watched and not ran into exclusiveness and an opposite extreme, it might have been one of the most powerful movements in the world.

About that time, William Irvine wanted me to join the Faith Mission but I was not clear about it being the will of God, only to venture out on unsectarian Lines of Faith. [As to doing so I was in doubt.] I applied and was accepted only by J. Govan understood as to me seeking to know the will of God in this matter. Returning from the conferences, I made the final decision to go on Faith Lines and not to join the Faith Mission. I reached that point where I said, "Well Lord, even though I fail, I will obey you."  I wrote at once to J. G.  Govan to say I was led of the Spirit along that line, and he wrote me a very nice letter saying that he was glad that I discovered the will of God in the matter, and that I should let him know in the future how it worked out.

Soon afterwards, I was rightly guided not to do so.

[Had I joined the Faith Mission, it would have been only leaving one control to enter under another, and the freedom that I have enjoyed ever since would not have been mine. By this saying, I do not despise rule or controls and as a young worker, I am glad to have been under superintendence for at least three and half year until I got experienced.

Then, had I joined the Faith Mission, it would have sent my life into another direction, and the duty I performed toward home, especially my Mother, could not be done so faithfully and well. 

Then if I had joined the Faith Mission, the Preacher’s fellowship might never have sprung up, as my example of stepping out on Faith lines pioneered the way for many others doing the same thing soon afterwards. 

Then if I had joined the Faith Mission, I would have to set aside the Ordinances of Believer’s Baptism and Breaking Bread on the Lord’s Day which is an important part of obedience. "If ye love me," etc. (John 14:15).]

The powerful principal of Irvine’s way of discipline; also the standard of obedience, self-denial and liberty, imitating the pattern as seen in Jesus; were sure to clash with the ritual and rules of ecclesiastical ministry; and the opposition to his method became more and more manifest every day; so that it meant either a reformation with the one, or a separation by the other.  Irvine being a man of foresight, and feeling the tremendous responsibility of being a reformer and leader against his will, made him give a soul touching and loving address; and left the Conference with a broken Spirit, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, like His Master.

Reader, I now bring this chapter to a close. I have not exaggerated; as what is recorded here are very fragmentary accounts of all that did happen, nevertheless these should be sufficient (no matter what changes time brought about) to prove the work had a Divine origin; and that REVIVAL was of God.  End of Revised Chapters 1-5 1897-1898

[In giving this report of the work of the Lord during this year, I have entered into details, so as that in this Revised Version of my journal, I might give it more justice than I did in my first narrative. So, my Son, you can read and know for yourself somewhat of the experiences your Father went through in the early years of his life.

End of Vol I] 

TTT Editor’s Note: The bracketed text contains additional/edited material from the second revision for the years 1897 and 1898 that have been inserted into the first revised version .

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CHAPTER 6
1899
JANUARY, 1899:  On the first of January, 1899, I started on the new Lines of Faith in God.  That morning one pound came to me by post. Faith Lines is a preacher going forth without any fixed or stated salary, neither any public collections at meetings, but just trusting in God to put it into the hearts of God’s people to give to the support of them who ministered in spiritual things. If more came in than necessary, learning to abound; if less, learning to suffer lack.

I started on a Matthew Ten walking tour from Roscrea to Rathmolyon in County Meath, with the intention of speaking to every person I met about Christ. This was too much for any person to undertake, as some persons were easier reached than others. However the cross was in it, and the issues and results were good, for nearly every walking tour of that kind led on to definite mission work, and pioneered the way for others afterwards. During that tour I began conversation by personal testimony, asking them would they like to hear what God hath done for my soul? It was a good way of introduction, yet I think the law of adaptation mentioned in a previous chapter to be better.

On the way, I got preaching the Gospel, in a barn at Clonsarce, County Kildare. Soon afterwards a REVIVAL took place in that district, at a mission held by Brother Bridgell, an Evangelist from Trim and many persons decided for Christ. It was that walking tour that led him to go there. As the outcome of that time of visitation the Methodists built a Mission Hall, where services are still held.

I reached Rathmolyon just in time for an all-day conference in the School Room, by a band of young men and women whose hearts God had touched; and we had a good day of prayer, praise, preaching and testimony; at that Conference was an evangelist named Aleck Buckley, from Greystones, who came to help and to see what God hath wrought.

The Methodist Evangelist from Trim, asked me over to have a mission in the Methodist Church; the Protestants did not attend well, so we went out on the street and for three days preached the Gospel to the Romans; the first meetings were good and undisturbed; nevertheless, as we succeeded, and numbers increased, hostility and persecution of a dangerous kind arose. On hearing of our adventures, a few brothers from Rathmolyon, came to our help on the Sabbath day. It took seven policemen to keep back a howling mob of upwards of two hundred men of Belial who pressed upon us throwing stones, missiles, and ugly language. In the evening we quietly left the town and went to Rathmolyon, and took the meeting in the School Room, and Maud Watson got converted. Although I resigned the Colportage work and the salary, I did not as yet cease to be a member of the Methodist Church.

Faith trusts in Christ for things unseen
When in the life there’s naught between
The man of faith in prayer believes
That what he asks he will receive.

Faith thrives upon the word of God
And trusts the merits of the Blood
No fear while Jesus face we see
Like Peter walking on the sea.

Faith grows apace by exercise
And anchors safe beyond the skies
Faith soars aloft like eagles wings
And to the precious promise clings.

Men stand the test in trials great
By exercising mighty faith
They rise beyond the world and sin
And lives the crown of life to win.

FEBRUARY, 1899:  Leaving Rathmolyon, I took another short walking tour into Dublin City. While there I helped at some meetings in Abby Street Methodist Mission Room, where a few persons decided for Christ. While there I preached with power, without any preparation beforehand, and was exposed to the criticism of Scribes and Pharisees; a race that are living still. Because I did not accurately pronounce one or two words, they laughed at me; nevertheless, I spoke unconsciously with great authority and confounded their criticism.

While there I met with an old companion Walter Bradley, from Kilrush, a candidate for the Methodist ministry. I am sure a young man would be better fitted for the Lord’s work by the experience of four years active service, learning at the feet of Jesus, than four years in college, coming out having to use a manuscript and not able to preach by promptings as the Holy Spirit gives utterance. It’s time that the churches waked up to the fact that it’s not Gold and College that fits for Gospel ministry, but Conversion and the Holy Spirit, 1 Peter 4:11; Acts 20:28. While singing a hymn in an upper room in Abby Street, I received a definite anointing of power; it was by these anointings that I was led on and set free, for that is ammunity (sic) till our work is done.

MARCH, 1899:  A Christian lady named Sister Peacock, who knew me used her influence to get a mission in Bray Methodist Church; while there I spoke out against concerts, and pleasurable meetings attached to the church of God; and found it not popular to witness against those things, however, some got blessed and received the word of the Lord with gladness; among them was the kind lady who got me the opening and paid for my lodging, because she believed in that Scripture “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my Brethren, ye have done it unto me,” Matthew 25:40. On my return journey, I spent another week in Dublin City, and met with Irvine Weir, George Walker, Albert Quinn, and others who soon afterwards gave up their situations to go fully on the Lord’s work.

APRIL, 1899:  From Dublin I returned again to the South, and helped at a mission in Shinrone. About that time, other features of the Lord’s work presented themselves; unto them I said, “No,” being in the will of God. The Methodist asked me to undertake an evangelistic campaign in a tent during the summer months in the City. Two ladies proposed to send me to D. L. Moody’s training school in Chicago. Pastor Harpur asked me to join his band for street preaching in the Southern Counties. If I had got these chances at the beginning of my experience, I might have accepted them; but having been so clearly led out on Faith Lines, I was afraid of turning aside to the right hand or to the left.

Owing to the growing difficulties of getting halls and churches for Gospel Missions, Jack Carroll, from Nenagh, organised the building of a Wooden Hall, for itinerating mission work; and in one year there were at least dozen built in the British Isles. They were very laborious but a great invention and the mission work done in them was very successful and fruitful as persons came to them who would not attend any place of worship.

MAY, 1899:   My next mission was in Aughrim Methodist Church. I cycled from Cloughjordan on a very wet day. I too can say with Paul, “In journeyings often in heat, and cold, in weariness and painfulness, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in reproach by my own countrymen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils among false brethren.” Sister Storey faithfully received me and encouraged me to go forward. At that mission many young persons decided for Christ; among them were a number of orphans who came in from an institute in the village. I think that those places are splendid means of training young children, and one of the fruits of Christianity; how much better if Christians opened up their homes and got the reward contained in that one word, “Inasmuch.” From Aughrim, I returned through Portumna to Cloughjordan.

JUNE, 1899:  I took a walking tour to Kilrush, and held a mission in the Methodist Church, given to me by W. B. Merrick. The Peacocks treated me very friendly; and helped me on my journey after a Godly sort. At that mission Maud O. Donnelly, decided for Christ, she was a Roman, under conviction at that time, and was servant to the Peacocks family. Owing to fierce persecution that followed, she left Kilrush and went to live in Belfast; she now is married, and a converted Protestant, having said farewell to Rome, forever, she enjoys the liberty whereby the Son makes free indeed.

JULY, 1899:  After that I took a tour to Castlebar, County Mayo, where I had a mission in the Methodist Church; where my old friend, Samuel Weir, was stationed. He was a very loyal and loving man; a good counsellor; and gave me many useful hints and advice and helped my education very much. At that mission there attended a young woman who never confessed Christ with her mouth in public. I spent a day in prayer and fasting for her. After preaching from the story of Jesus casting out a deaf and dumb Devil, I left the meeting open for testimony; when she stood up and confessed Jesus for the first time. That is one of the benefits of the Testimony Meeting; it gives liberty and facility to confess the Lord Jesus in public; if the believer speaks short, simple, and truthful, it never fails to strengthen in experience and cross bearing.

AUGUST, 1899:  Next in order I went to Galway town, and had a mission in the Sea Road Hall. It was given to me by Robert Miller, the Congregational minister, and Sister Barton, the kind lady who entertained the preachers during the persecution that arose over Street Preaching; she bore the cross faithfully during life, and when in death her sunset was glorious; lit up with the joy of the Lord.  It was a custom of mine to give at least a tenth unto the Lord, and I found it one of the secrets of temporal blessing; my money increased to ten pounds, and my mind was exercised as to who, or what I should give one pound to, when I heard of an Evangelist in Dublin, who was in need; and while enquiring for his address, a beggar man called at the door and handed it in, written on a visiting card. I left Galway and went to Cloughjordan, and as I continued to honour God with my substance, the joy of Christ in my soul was precious to me.

SEPTEMBER, 1899:  About that time I took a walking tour through Portumna, Mountshannon, and Scarif, into Limerick City. On the way near Mountshannon, feeling the need of greater power to witness for Jesus, I went into a field and prayed, and the Holy Spirit came upon me; so as that the joy of the Lord was my strength. While in the city I met with my former friend G. C. Grubb, who asked me to the Soldiers Home for tea, and we had a warm time of prayer and fellowship. The Baptist minister, Pastor Gibb, took me out into the country to have a meeting in the home of William Doherty.

Leaving Limerick, I went by train to Dublin, on the 19th and crossed to Rothesay, for the Faith Mission Convention. On the ship I again met with G. C. Grubb, Sister Falkiner and others going to the Conference. Christian fellowship is a valuable and necessary means of grace and help, and there is no time it is so cheering and refreshing as when on a journey, away from home, in a foreign land, “iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend,” Proverbs 27:17.

In the service of our Saviour
Let us try all saints to love
He will keep us in His favour
Till we reach our rest above.

Keep those graces boiling over
Christ commanded it to be
Now abideth these for ever
Faith and hope and charity

For these virtues are abiding
When the gift of tongues shall cease
And the fruits of their existence
In the world shall never cease. (Or, not decrease)

Every member in the Body
Is connected with the Head
One in Christ are all believers
From the vine the branch is fed.

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CHAPTER 7

From the REVIVAL at Rothesay that gave birth unto the Faith Mission; an annual Convention was held for the deepening of spiritual life, when the whole staff of Pilgrims, and Prayer Union representatives, auxiliary workers, etc. gathered together and spent a week in prayer, praise, and preaching, together with setting and arranging for future service, companions and districts.  At these gatherings, G.C. Grubb, F.B. Moore, J.G. Govan and others gave stirring and searching addresses.  That Convention was a memorable one when a measure of power and blessing was felt by many who came to spend a day in God’s courts which is better than a thousand (Ps. 84:10). We cannot quickly forget the singing of that glorious hymn:

Crown Him with many crowns,
The Lamb upon his throne
Hark how the heavenly anthem drowns,
All music but its own.

The Faith Mission teaching for Christians, consisted in the necessity of a surrendered life to God, a clean heart, the indwelling of Christ; also they encouraged all believers both men and women to pray, praise and witness for Jesus in the meetings and in their own homes.  Their teaching on these essential truths were given the same as the original Methodists, Friends and Salvation.  Besides the salvation of sinners, the organization was much used in the Sanctification of Christians; also in giving presence to home and foreign mission work.  They did not teach the Ordinances of Believer’s Baptism, and the Lord’s supper; the cause of this was they maintained their mission to be unsectarian; nevertheless, teaching young converts obedience to the commands of the Lord Jesus does not necessarily mean a new sect; or a bigoted attitude to others.  A. B. Simpson, the leader of that mission in America called The Christian Alliance, a greater organization than the Faith Mission, not only teaches Baptism and the Lord’s Supper; but anoints the sick with oil, and ministers divine healing; yet it is an unsectarian mission.  The Faith Mission, like all other divinely appointed missions, in its original days, suffered much opposition from the clergy, and professing Christian churches, and it was only the Evangelical ones that countenanced them.

OCTOBER, 1899:  After the Convention William Irvine invited me over to his sister’s home in Queenzieburn, Kilsyth.  At the same time, he went to meet some young men that came over from Ireland, with the intention of going fully on the Lord’s work.  [Editor’s Note: This expedition is known as the "1899 Bicycle Trip to Scotland" led by Irvine of 7 or 8 young men. View Photo]

While I waited his return, I went into Kilsyth; and helped at a mission in the West Port Hall held by Sister Cameron, an auxiliary of the Faith Mission.  I went to many homes and told them to repent; also invited them to come to Jesus, and to the mission; also I helped in the after meetings to ground anxious souls to Christ.  It was a fruitful mission when upwards of one hundred souls decided for Christ.  During the time we spent some half nights in prayer; and I knew it to be four o’clock in the morning when we went home.  These were days of refreshing coming from the presence of the Lord; the fruits and results were real and lasting.

A Methodist local preacher, named Malcolm Stark had asked John Barton, the president of the West Port Hall, for an Evangelist to hold a mission in Condarrat.  He told Malcolm about me and it was arranged for us to meet.  I took my local preachers certificate in my pocket to show him; when I searched for it I could not find it, for it had slipped out of my case and fell on the floor; it was picked up and given to me in a few days afterwards.  From that event I never found any liberty of using letters of commendation; only to trust God, with a Bible in my pocket; and a testimony for Jesus on my lips; nevertheless, I have no objection to others writing for me if they are disposed to do so.  Rom 16:1.
 
NOVEMBER, 1899:  About that time Irvine returned when I had started the mission in Condarrat (Scotland), and he left me a partner named Irvine Weir.  The mission was a splendid success, upwards of thirty persons decided for Christ.  After that mission I was asked into Kilsyth to take a service in the Methodist Church on trial, with the intention, if they liked me, to have a mission, however, some of their elders rejected having me; and a fire broke out that night in the vestry room and quenched itself.  From that time I ceased to be a member of the Methodist church.

DECEMBER, 1899:  Irvine Weir returned to Ireland and Samuel Boyd joined me, and we had short missions in Auchinstarry, Banton, Queenzieburn; while we resided with David Bradshaw, in Colzeum Stables and we had some blessing among children.  I was not strong in body.  I felt the changes of climate very much; yet in my weak days I trusted Jesus; and he preserved my soul alive.  At that time I made much use of pure gospel literature, such as giving Bibles and Testaments to young converts.

About that time I had a letter from William Irvine telling me of a remarkable experience which happened to him in Hillsborough.  One night when he was going to bed he asked a drink of water; it was awful to drink; he could not sleep but kept trusting in God; and He revealed to him that some offensive matter had poisoned the well; next morning he, by the means of a rope and a bucket fished two rotten ducks out of it.  That year we spent the watchnight in Queenzieburn School Room; thus passed away the first year on Faith Lines, during which I proved that promise, “My God shall supply all your need,” Phil. 4:19.  God sent me in more than I got in the colportage work.

Praise ye the Lord; praise ye the Lord
Join in ye saints with one accord.
Shout Hallelujah loud and high,
Because he harkened to our cry.
He led us on from grace to grace,
And brought us to a larger place.

About that time a wooden hall was set up in Stoney Acre where Matthew Wilson, Dick Norman, Irvine and others held a mission and many young men got converted.  At that mission, my mother, William, Annie and Thomas were led into a saving knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus; and began to pray and testify.  Henry Culbert, William Williams, James Clarke and William Culbert got converted. 

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 Go To:   Part 3 – 1900 thru 1907