[From a typewritten copy, not the original]

Thank you very much for your good letter. I missed seeing you among the group of friends that traveled from Sarpsborg, when we met them on Sunday morning. There were many people at the conference. On Sunday evening we had a conversation meeting about 1 Timothy 4. Sunday morning was a testimony meeting about leaving Babylon and taking up a battle against it. Ref. Jeremiah 50 and 51. All those who depart from the truth end up in Babylon. It was an awakening, first and foremost, to be on guard, and then to contend for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.

On Sunday afternoon we spoke together about a woman’s place in the church. Br. X was eager to have the women keep as silent as possible, but when we looked into the matter further, we came to the agreement that “church meeting” could not refer to a regular public meeting that everyone could attend, but one where internal church matters were discussed. Even if there was a meeting in which only those in the church were present, it could not be considered a church meeting unless designated as such in advance. It was a public meeting even though no outsiders came. A church meeting was not open to everyone. Everyone felt that this was a good conclusion; and the women were also satisfied with it. Women are permitted to testify (prophesy) and to pray at “edification meetings.” They just need to ensure that they don’t teach or have authority over men, but always show an appropriate attitude toward them.

Our ignorance gives us no right to place women in bondage, but when God’s light enlightens our ignorance, then both man and woman feel free by doing the will of God.

I have written an article for Skjulte Skatter entitled “More Regarding Military Service,” where I explain how hatred toward military service among the free churches arose at the same time as the socialists started refusing to serve in the military, and therefore they have one and the same root. Socialism and religious liberty work hand-in-hand toward the same goal—lawlessness. They are yoked together. So this issue about military service will be a hot topic, because these two groups are in league with one another on this point.

Thorleif Hansen is getting married this Saturday.

Warm greetings from your brother,