p. 157 | DISCUSSION IN IOWA by J. C. Smith

Seventh-Day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Thursday, March 4, 1880

FromThe Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, Vol. 55, No. 10

DISCUSSION IN IOWA.

By J. C. Smith

In December Bro. Pegg began to lecture in Maynard, where I have been teaching more than a year. He labored faithfully for about seven weeks. The interest was small at first, but kept increasing till the close of the lectures.

Some of our Disciple friends have been somewhat boastful, charging Bro. Pegg with deceiving the people, especially in regard to the Sabbath, saying that he was trying to urge upon them an institution wholly Jewish. He offered the use of the hall to any one who wished to present the other side, but did not intend the offer as a challenge for a public discussion. It seems that they understood it as a challenge; for a proposition was offered by them for his acceptance as follows: “Resolved, That the fourth precept of the decalogue was and is binding upon all men.” Bro. P. tried to avoid a discussion, preferring to review them. The matter was pressed so strongly that he thought it would have the appearance of cowardice to refuse, in consideration of the fact that one of their number had frequently boasted to the writer that our ministers were afraid to meet theirs on the Sabbath question. Bro. P. advised with the brethren, and we thought that a discussion was called for. Finally, they sent for Eld. McConnel, who wrote that he would be on hand the 9th.

The discussion accordingly began Monday evening, the 9th, and closed Friday evening, with a crowded house. We feel assured that a victory has been won for the truth. This is evidenced by the general sentiment which prevailed at the close, and by the fact that five more signed the covenant, with a good prospect that six others will sign before Bro. Pegg leaves.

Such prejudice has been removed, and a good impression left upon the community. Eld. McConnel indulged in much abuse, and could not keep from slandering Sister White and her visions. The truth appears more plain and precious than ever, and my desire is to live it out, and be prepared to meet Christ in peace.

J. C. SMITH.