George Fox (1624-1691)
Epistle 145
1657
A Time of Silence
FRIENDS, Where there is Strife among any of you, mind the Light to Judge it down, and Condemn it; by which Light your Minds may be guided up to Christ, where there is no Strife, to learn of him, and to Condemn all that with the Light, which would give the World ground to reproach Truth. . . . For that which is out of the Light, will fall and confound it self. So, mind that which keeps your Peace, and condemns that which leads into Weakness; and that which will let in Prejudice, from the Light goes: All which is to be condemned with the Light, which leads to Christ, the Covenant of Peace. And where there is Strife, which leads out into many Words, such will wither, and bring themselves under Condemnation at last: Such must be Silent, and mind that which doth condemn them: that the Life in them may arise, wherein is no Strife. For where Men's Spirits are high, something is stirring, that should be kept under; take heed, that get not up into Rule. So, first learn the Ministry of Condemnation in your selves, that Life may arise, before Ministry in the Spirit be known, which preacheth Peace by Jesus Christ where there is no Strife: Therefore wait to know the Time of Silence. . . .
