Not of letters, but of spirit

Not of letters

but of spirit

The New Testamental way;

For ’tis life the spirit giveth

But the letters always slay.

Outward work God never reckons

But what’s from the inmost part;

It is not to serve in letter

But life’s newness to impart.

Not just by the outward teachings

But by His anointing moved;

Not just by the outward pattern

But by inward vision proved.

Not by human rules or rituals

But by heaven’s rule within;

Not by human-made decisions

But by guidance giv’n of Him.

Not a dead religion serving

But in Christ as life to live;

Not theology dispensing

But a living Christ to give.

Not the knowledge of mere doctrine

But the message Christ should be;

Not the gifts

the forms

the teachings

But God’s Christ—reality.

Not objectively to worship

But to serve Him inwardly;

Not to preach a Christ objective

But Himself subjectively.

Not just by the Scripture serving

But in spirit and in life;

Not by flesh

but by the Spirit

Filling

freeing from all strife.