Regarding the very delicate and complex question of ascertaining the
qualifications of a true believer, I cannot in this connection emphasize
too strongly the supreme necessity for the exercise of the utmost
discretion, caution and tact, whether it be in deciding for ourselves as
to who may be regarded a true believer or in disclosing to the outside
world such considerations as may serve as a basis for such a decision. I
would only venture to state very briefly and as adequately as present
circumstances permit the principal factors that must be taken into
consideration before deciding whether a person may be regarded a true
believer or not. Full recognition of the station of the Forerunner, the
Author, and the True Exemplar of the Baha'i Cause, as set forth in
'Abdu'l-Baha's Testament; unreserved acceptance of, and submission to,
whatsoever has been revealed by their Pen; loyal and steadfast adherence
to every clause of our Beloved's sacred Will; and close association with
the spirit as well as the form of the present day Baha'i administration
throughout the world--these I conceive to be the fundamental and primary
considerations that must be fairly, discreetly and thoughtfully
ascertained before reaching such a vital decision. Any attempt at further
analysis and elucidation will, I fear, land us in barren discussions and
even grave controversies that would prove not only futile but even
detrimental to the best interests of a growing Cause. I would therefore
strongly urge those who are called upon to make such a decision to
approach this highly involved and ever-recurring problem with the spirit
of humble prayer, and earnest consultation, and to refrain from drawing
rigidly the line of demarcation except on such occasions when the
interests of the Cause absolutely demand it.