The following chapters were given as messages in
conference at Honor Oak, London. Whilst a considerable
background of spiritual experience in the service of God
lies behind them, the form in which the messages were
given was prompted by a reading of that great volume by
Field Marshal Sir William Slim—Defeat into Victory.
Every chapter really needs a book to itself, as there is
far more unwritten than is contained in this small book.At the present time, as the
consummation of the age draws nearer and the final
settlement is in view, the battle which divides the
universe into only two contending kingdoms is raging
fiercely and relentlessly. It is therefore necessary that
everything possible be done to inform, instruct, counsel,
warn, encourage, and support those who are involved and
affected. We appeal to all who read these pages, not to
approach their message in any attitude of mere interest
or theory, but to study them as though they themselves
were directly involved in the tremendous issues at stake.
To leaders, and others
in responsibility, we especially appeal, that they would
consider what is here in the light of their own present
experience of a “great warfare” (Dan. 10:1). If
leaders would but get together to review this whole
matter of the spiritual conflict, more might be
accomplished in the direction of turning Defeat into
Victory.
Should Field Marshal
Slim’s eye ever catch sight of this volume, I hope
that—rather than resenting it—he will be glad
that his great reversal in the earthly realm may serve,
even in a small way, to affect the so much-greater realm
of the eternal and heavenly.
T. AUSTIN SPARKS
FOREST HILL,
LONDON,
1960.