DISEASE AND SIN

New Zealand Times, Volume L, Issue 11648, 12 October 1923, Page 2

DISEASE AND SIN

THE TWO NOT CONNECTED. REV. JOSEPH KEMP'S VIEW. Reference to the Hickson Mission was made by the Rev. Joseph Kemp at Auckland Baptist Tabernacle. Mr Kemp said the methods adopted were similar to those adopted by Mr Hickson elsewhere, and be thought he might also say the results were Bimi- ! lar. There had been no undue excite- ! ment or emotionalism, but there had been a quietness and prayerfulnees I that he supposed had never been equalled, certainly never surpassed, in aUy gatherings that might be termed to be electric with expectancy. There were approximately 3000 people who presented themselves for.physical healing under the hands of the lay mißsioner, and they passed from him to receive benediction at the hands of . an Anglican priest. Mr Kdmp pfofdssed to be a Ndndohfonnist of Nonconformists, and he contended that no man could.come between .his soul and God.' At the same time, God did use hutssn instruments. Whether the present, one was of God of not, one would be a fool to dogmatise regarding it. What was the effect of the mission upon the Ohurdh.? Probably ministers and thoughtful church officers were confronted With some grave questionings. How far does the mission of healing differ in principle from the ordinary prayers for the sick? Arp not the prayers offered in pastoral visitation as efficacious, if offered ip faith, as those of a special rnikfeioner ? Has the miseioner some special gift of healing, or has he simply a truer and a stronger filth ? Mr Kemp strongly opposed the Assumption that disease and consequent suffering Were always the result Of sin. The logical conclusion of such a contention -was that the sufferer ehould.be excommunicated. If God did not elect to cure every case, He certainly could give the strengtjh to hear the disease.