How It Began

In August 1963 it was suggested to editors that some comment on current world events, secular and religious, would enhance the usefulness of the magazine. Such comment would be of practical value to readers of Needed Truth in assessing modern trends against the background of Scripture prophecy. It would also dispel any impression that we were indifferent to the turmoil around us or to the pressures bearing on those who endeavour to maintain and practise the Christian faith in this late twentieth century. It was in response to this counsel that the present writer undertook, with some trepidation, to initiate a two-page monthly feature entitled "Comment by Torchlight". The title signified the character of the assignment and editors kindly gave the writer full liberty to use the space allotted without restriction as to subject matter.

It was the intention that the feature should run for a trial period only, but as it got under way the writer was urged to continue, and as regular readers of the magazine are aware "Comment by Torchlight" has appeared monthly for the past sixteen years.

These have been momentous years. In spite of bewildering scientific and technological advance the word 'crisis' has seldom been absent from

the daily outpourings of the media. Violence and crime are rife. Atrocities which chill the mind are commonplace. The rising tide of lawlessness seems beyond control. In short, to quote the prophetic Word, there is "distress of nations... men fainting for fear, and for expectation of the things which are coming on the world" (Luke 21:25,26).

The Guidelines

During the past ninety years or so a definite outline of coming events associated with our Lord's return has been advocated by writers in this magazine. Intervening history has amply confirmed the general soundness of the particular interpretation of the prophetic Word we have followed. The present writer has observed these guidelines when referring to current events. His aim has been to comment with restraint, avoiding the sensational and the melodramatic. Rash and fanciful speculation brings the study of prophecy into disrepute. The prophetic Word is not given just to satisfy our curiosity. Its purpose is to verify Scripture, to demonstrate divine sovereignty, to sustain the faithful in times of darkness and declension, and to promote godly living (2 Pet. 1:19; 3:11,12). Teachers of prophecy should always keep these ends in view.

Space does not permit any review of the various landmarks in prophetic fulfilment which have been sighted during the past sixteen years. In international affairs the Middle East has held the foremost place. The Arabi Israeli dispute has seldom been out of the headlines. We have traced developments as they occurred and endeavoured to discern the drift of events in the light of Scripture. The threat of oil sanctions by the O.P.E.C. states in recent years has brought a new and dangerous phase in global politics. Dr Waldheim, Secretary-General of the United Nations Organization, in his annual report pointed out that the Arab/Israeli dispute has defied U.N. mediation for 32 years. He added this sombre warning, "The question is how long the world, let alone the people of the Middle East, can afford to go on living with this explosive issue in its midst". How long, indeed? The answer is that "times and seasons" are outside the control of human organisations (Acts 1:7). For ourselves, we should be, "looking for the blessed hope and appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ" (Tit. 2:13). Lift up your hearts!

"Th' eternal glories gleam afar

To nerve our faint endeavour;

So now to watch, to work, to war,

And then to rest for ever".

The Phase-out

The foregoing, as readers may have already sensed, is in the nature of a "swan song". For various reasons the time has come for this penman to write 'finis' to his monthly dissertations. "Comment by Torchlight" is therefore to be phased out next month. Editors are making other arrangements for providing topical comment from time to time. The present writer will follow with deep interest the new feature which is to be introduced in January 1980, if the Lord will.

unknown | Nov 1979
Comment By Torchlight