DURING the past year pledges have been made to this institution, which in the aggregate amounts to over two thousand dollars. These pledges were almost invariably made payable Jan. 1, 1904. A special effort was made to keep the work going on the building without incurring debt, but it was found to be impossible to collect money fast enough for this, so it was thought that as long as we had pledges from our brethren sufficient to cover indebtedness incurred in order to keep the work moving, we were proceeding safely.
It will require considerable time and expense to notify each one separately that his pledge is due the first day of next month; so this article is written, hoping that many, if not all, of those interested will see it, and consider it a personal notification, and thus at least a considerable part of the expense be saved. It will very seriously handicap us if these pledges are not paid. Most of them are small, ranging from one dollar up to fifty dollars, and in almost every case payment can be made without seriously inconveniencing any one if it is kept in mind, and arrangements are made in advance.
We are glad to be able to announce that after a long, hard struggle, we have finished the plastering of the sanitarium, and a part of it is being occupied. The boiler and radiators for heating it are on the ground; and as soon as they are in place, the whole building can be used. There are nearly forty rooms in the building; and it is the intention of those at the head of the work in the Southern Union Conference, when further facilities are required, to build in other parts of this field, instead of enlarging here.
In a little from this, we hope to be able to announce that we are prepared to receive all classes of patients for which the institution is erected. Situated on the sunny side of the mountain, it is a delightful retreat for those who dread the rigor of a Northern winter.
It is almost always the case that where pledges are taken over a territory extending from Michigan to California, some pledges are not collectible, on account of deaths, accidents, etc. We have made arrangements to use every dollar that has been pledged, so if there are friends of this institution who have not pledged, but who can help us, they will greatly assist us by sending their offering directly to us here at Graysville. Every dollar received will be credited to the amount appropriated to the Southern field. Money sent to us is not to any separate, private affair, but to a work indorsed by the General Conference, and for which they must raise money if we fail. Make all remittances to the Southern Conference Association, Graysville, Tenn.
SMITH SHARP.
Manager of Southern Sanitarium.
Missouri Young People's Convention
By Jas. Cochran
A YOUNG people's convention was held in Kansas City, Mo., November 27-30. The meeting was more than a State convention, as many young people from the Kansas Conference were present, and took part in the services. The convention was a marked success as to numbers in attendance, and also as to work accomplished. Usually in convention work considerable time is spent in long-drawn-out discussion, but not so in this meeting. The discussion of the topics was for the most part led by young people, and it was a source of gratitude to older brethren in the meeting to see the wisdom displayed in bringing out the different subjects. The topics discussed were mostly of a missionary character, and we sincerely believe that the missionary spirit awakened in this convention will be felt in the two conferences participating. Among the subjects discussed were "The Best Methods of Tract Distribution," "House-to-House Work with Our Papers," "How to Conduct Missionary Correspondence," "The Sale of Our Subscription Books," "How to Conduct Cottage Meetings," "Educational Work from the Standpoint of the Church School," "Educational Work from the Standpoint of the Sabbath-school." The closing meeting on Sunday evening was especially of an interesting nature. An hour and a half was given to the consideration of the subject, "What Is Your Aim?" under the subheads "The Ministry," "The Medical Missionary," "The Office Worker," "The Stenographer and Bookkeeper," "The Salesman," "The Publisher." Persons of experience in these particular lines were chosen to present them. What should be the supreme aim of Christian young men and women, the importance of having a definite message to give at this time, and the preparation necessary on the part of young men and women in order to carry on their work successfully were points emphasized in the discussion of the subject. The opportunities afforded our young men and women in business lines in connection with the different phases of our work were made especially prominent.
A meeting of the educational superintendents of the Central Union Conference was held in connection with the young people's convention. The educational workers present were Brethren M. E. Kern, of Union College; Floyd Bralliar, of Iowa; B. E. Huffman, of Kansas; C. R. Kite, of Nebraska; and W. S. Cruzan, of Missouri. Brethren C. McReynolds, R. C. Porter, and H. H. Hall, and Mrs. B. Emmerson were also present, and rendered valuable help in the convention.
JAS. COCHRAN.
One More Appeal
By Editor
A SPLENDID work has been done and is being done with the Capital and Labor number of The Signs of the Times. The Pacific Press reports that orders for over five hundred thousand copies have already been received (December 4), and that they are still coming in at the rate of about twenty-five thousand a day.
But we now wish to make an appeal in behalf of the regular issues. The Signs has been designated as our “pioneer missionary paper,” and it is stated that “our papers are doing a greater work than the living preacher can do.” This being the case, an earnest effort should be made to secure subscribers for the regular issues. The “follow-up plan” which has been used so successfully in other lines of business, should be adopted in our work. The Capital and Labor number is a splendid “entering wedge.” Now this should be followed up by a thorough, systematic canvass for regular subscribers.
We are glad to know that a wave of enthusiasm is sweeping over our people in the matter of circulating our literature. Never before has there been such an awakening. We believe this is due largely to the splendid missionary conventions recently held. Now let us keep the ball rolling. Not only should thorough work be done with our periodicals, but our tracts, pamphlets, and trade books should have due attention. Now, just now, is the time to work. It will soon be too late. Write at once to your tract society for further information.
PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING Co.
Where They Have Gone
By Editor
The following is a statement of the circulation of the Capital and Labor number of The Signs of the Times. This report, so far as States is concerned, does not include papers sent to regular subscribers, to editors, or to single addresses. It simply includes quantity orders. It closes with December 8.
Alabama .................... 1,247
Arizona .................... 4,372
Arkansas .................... 3,023
California .................... 47,449
Colorado .................... 17,994
Connecticut .................... 2,150
Delaware .................... 594
District of Columbia .................... 2,771
Florida .................... 425
Georgia .................... 658
Idaho .................... 2,861
Illinois .................... 14,027
Indiana .................... 21,079
Indian Territory .................... 1,349
Iowa .................... 20,981
Kansas .................... 20,446
Kentucky .................... 1,731
Louisiana .................... 788
Maine .................... 3,787
Maryland .................... 2,903
Massachusetts .................... 8,554
Michigan .................... 26,434
Minnesota .................... 10,953
Mississippi .................... 1,100
Missouri .................... 10,666
Montana .................... 2,457
New Jersey .................... 7,508
New Mexico .................... 1,143
New York .................... 15,507
North Carolina .................... 2,112
North Dakota .................... 2,266
Nebraska .................... 24,020
Nevada .................... 250 New Hampshire .................... 309
Ohio .................... 9,082
Oklahoma .................... 9,700
Oregon .................... 12,107
Pennsylvania .................... 26,436
Rhode Island .................... 1,099
South Carolina .................... 225
South Dakota .................... 9,721
Tennessee .................... 3,316
Texas .................... 4,555
Utah .................... 1,475
Vermont .................... 4,100
Virginia .................... 2,211
Washington .................... 15,927
West Virginia .................... 2,685
Wisconsin .................... 19,194
Wyoming .................... 1,075
Canada .................... 7,748
Hawaii .................... 575
Mexico .................... 125
British Columbia .................... 1,281
Foreign .................... 410
Alaska .................... 75
Total .................... 417,036
Copies mailed to regular subscribers and single names, approximately 40,000.
Early in January we hope to publish another report showing the copies taken by each State since December 8. May we not expect the above figures to be doubled? PACIFIC PRESS.
Our Duty to Those Who Have Loaned Money to the Cause
By P. T. Magan
THERE are many devoted Seventh-day Adventists who have loaned money to the cause of God. The spirit which has prompted them to do this has been born of a desire to see the work advanced. Such persons, like their brethren and sisters, have donated freely and liberally from time to time as the various calls have been made. Then in addition to this they have made great sacrifices by placing what little capital they possessed in our different institutions at a much lower rate of interest than they would receive by investing in worldly securities. Indeed there are no inconsiderable number of men and women among us who have deposited what little they possessed in some branch of the work, and have asked no interest at all. Many have been enabled to do this only by exercising constant self-denial and self-sacrifice.
The wealthy among us are by no means altogether the creditors of our institutions. There are, of course, many wealthy Adventists who have come to the rescue of our different institutions in times of need with loans of large sums of money. But the majority of those who have loaned money to the cause are poor people.
And God is not unrighteous to forget the work and labor of love which these have showed toward his name. To all who in sincerity of heart and unselfishness of purpose have sought to help the cause in this way God gives the precious promise: “Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.”
It sometimes happens when the love of God is allowed to grow cold upon the heart’s altar, when the presence of the Holy Spirit wanes in our lives, that we cease to bring our gifts to God’s different institutions. It may be that we have become discouraged because these institutions have not been rightly managed. It may be that we withhold an offering because God in his love and tender compassion is sending messages of warning and reproof to those who are laboring in an institution. We feel, perhaps, that as long as these are not walking in the light of heaven, we do not want to place means in the work which they are striving to carry on.
But how about the faithful ones who have loaned money to these institutions? Are they to be left to suffer? They have done what they could for the cause which they love. Oftentimes calamity or sickness overtakes them, and they need the little money they have invested. The father of the family may be taken away by death, and pinching want may visit the home. In order that she may keep the children clothed and fed, the mother writes to those who have charge of the funds of the cause, and asks for her small deposit. This is no imaginary picture. Such things have occurred, and will occur again.
These dear brethren and sisters are bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. “Whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” All such are in verity the members of the body of Christ. Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water shall in no wise lose his reward.
In the good Word of God we are admonished as we have opportunity to do good unto all men, “especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Our brethren and sisters who have loaned money to the cause are children indeed of the household of faith. To each of us the words are spoken, “Hide not thyself from thine own flesh.” A solemn duty rests upon us to care for those within the fold, as well as those without.
Doubtless almost all the readers of the REVIEW have read the article in the issue of December 3 from Sister White on “The Battle Creek College Debt and the Missionary Acre Fund.” In that article it is plainly written, “Every creditor must be paid.”
To-day there are creditors of the Battle Creek College who need their money. Are there not brethren and sisters who will contribute to Christ’s cause by gift or loan, so that these can be paid?
Great joy awaits those who will do this. For when the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, in answer to the questions, “When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? or when saw we thee sick, . . . and came unto thee? . . . the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
P. T. MAGAN.
Donations for the Memorial Church, Washington, D. C.
By J. S. Washburn
SINCE my last statement, the sum of $135.65 has been sent to me, to prepare the church for dedication. A full statement of this expense was given in the REVIEW of November 26, and in previous numbers. If all subscriptions and money in the hands of treasurers are sent in at once, we hope that after closing up our books we shall be able to turn over something toward establishing the denominational institutions in Washington, as previously stated.21
Below is given a list of donations sent directly to me since November 20, and not previously reported in the REVIEW: and Previously reported, $6,101.82; Helen Alice Ashhurst, $1; Mrs. W. D. Allen, $1; B. R. L. Simpson, $5; Mr. Broas, $5; F. W. Bartle, $5; Mrs. Elizabeth Nuding, $5; Wm. Humphries, $5; Mrs. B. L. Owen, $5; Sister White, $5; Brother Stuart, $5; Mrs. A. E. Parker, $5; J. W. Parlin, $5; Mrs. J. W. Cook, $5; J. C. Loomis, $5; J. W. Robbins, $5; J. T. Reynolds, $5; J. Marshall, $5; S. F. R. Backwards, $5; Matilda Osterlash, $5; Mrs. M. G. Smith, $5; Betsey J. Carpenter, $5; Melissa Cookindorfer, $5; Dr. W. H. Budge, $5; Samuel Booth, $5; Dr. H. M. Sell, $5; Mrs. D. J. Jones, $5; J. N. Sylvester, $5; Mrs. Phoebe L. Klebahn, $5; M. S. Babcock, $5; Mary L. Howlett, $5; S. D. Burdain, $5; Mrs. Nellie Johnson, $50; College View church, per M. W. Newton, $64.10; Mrs. Hattie H. Weller, $600. Total acknowledged to date, $7,214.88.
The following is a partial list of donations received before November 20: J. C. Anderson, $2; F. H. Belfast, $1; W. J. Dorman, $1; B. E. Perkins, 75 cents; Lily B. Dorman, 25 cents; C. H. Ellis, $1; A. M. Dorman, 50 cents; Francis Mortan, 50 cents; Mrs. Anna Mortan, 25 cents; Clyde L. Balkwill, $1; H. H. Stroup, 50 cents; Maria Stroup, 25 cents; Elizabeth Stroup, 25 cents; Mrs. Abigail Walters, $1; Arthur Peet, $1; Alysses T. Cady, 50 cents; Frank Redner, 50 cents; P. A. Lamar, $2; Nettie Miller, 50 cents; Mrs. Addie Bigelow, $1; L. W. Wetmore, $1; B. B. Strong, 50 cents; Mr. and Mrs. Wetmore, $1; J. A. Strong, 10 cents; George and Martha Wetmore, $1.65; Mrs. C. F. McVah, 25 cents; Francis Dingee, 25 cents; C. F. McVagh, 25 cents; a friend, $5; J. F. Fenner, $5; Mrs. L. Atkins and friends, $5; Mrs. C. F. Stewart, $5; Arthur Folsam, $5; Mrs. A. S. Wakefield, $2; Mrs. Hannah Seibert, $2; Erie church, by R. A. Underwood, $8.15; S. B. Leighton, $1; Mrs. S. J. Miller, $2; Prof. H. A. Washburn, $2; Second Baltimore church, by H. S. Weaver, $27.50; Wm. A. Hicks, 50 cents; Tom C. Hege, $1; Mrs. J. A. Coats, 25 cents; Kate Faulkner, 25 cents; Mrs. Anna E. Warner, 50 cents; Mrs. Lucy Renshaw, 50 cents; Mrs. John M. Wagner, 50 cents; Mrs. W. A. Hawk, 25 cents; P. J. Gaiga, 50 cents; Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Wagor, $1.25; Sister Taylor, 39 cents; Mrs. C. E. Eads, $1; W. J. Reynolds, 50 cents; Sister Altman, 50 cents; D. W. Reed, 50 cents; Alice Finch, $4; A. R. Owen, 25 cents; George Batterson, $1; W. E. Kipp, 25 cents; Chas. Hartman, 50 cents; N. E. Hale, 25 cents; Mrs. Farrall, 25 cents; Mrs. M. Osborn, $2; Capt. J. F. Ferris, $1; Sioux City church, by C. H. Lindley, $4.16; Nashville (Tenn.) church, by D. B. Spires, $13.25; J. T. Mitchell, $2; Mr. and Mrs. D. Andre, $10; J. J. Claflin, $1; Alice Ashhurst, $15; C. W. Hair, $5; R. L. Simpson, $5; Mr. Broas, $5; F. W. Bartle, $5; Mrs. Elizabeth Nuding, $5; Wm. Humphries, $5; Mrs. B. L. Owen, $5; Sister White, $5; Brother Stuart, $5; Mrs. A. E. Parker, $5; J. W. Parlin, $5; Mrs. J. W. Cook, $5; J. C. Loomis, $5; J. W. Robbins, $5; J. T. Reynolds, $5; J. Marshall, $5; S. F. R. Backwards, $5; Matilda Osterlash, $5; Mrs. M. G. Smith, $5; Betsey J. Carpenter, $5; Melissa Cookindorfer, $5; Dr. W. H. Budge, $5; Samuel Booth, $5; Dr. H. M. Sell, $5; Mrs. D. J. Jones, $5; J. N. Sylvester, $5; Mrs. Phoebe L. Klebahn, $5; M. S. Babcock, $5; Mary L. Howlett, $5; S. D. Burdain, $5; Mrs. Nellie Johnson, $50; College View church, per M. W. Newton, $64.10; Mrs. Hattie H. Weller, $600. Total acknowledged to date, $7,214.88.
J. S. WASHBURN.
1728 14th St., N. W., Washington, D. C.
Field Notes
THREE persons have recently begun the observance of the Sabbath at Myrtle Point, Ore.
A COMPANY of eleven members has been raised up at Choteau, Mont., since last July. A Sabbath-school has been organized.
THE company at Newport News, Va., has erected a chapel which it was expected would be dedicated the first week in December.
AT Stillwater, Minn., where a little company of eight persons has recently accepted the message, there is a flourishing Sabbath-school of twenty-five members.
A THREE months' canvassers' school will be held in Minneapolis, Minn., beginning Jan. 5, 1904. The aim will be to give a practical preparation for the canvassing work.
SUNDAY, November 15, a church of fifteen members was organized at Fort Scott, Kan. Five persons were baptized the previous Sabbath, and several others desire baptism at an early date.
A NEW church building is nearing completion at Glenwood Springs, Colo. Church buildings are also in process of erection at Montrose, Palisades, and Cedaredge.
IN the Riverside, Cal., Press of December 8, we note an interesting reference to the meetings which have been conducted there the past two months by Elder William Simpson, from which we quote the following: “As a result of the meetings fifty persons have already begun the observance of the Sabbath according to the commandment, which is upon the seventh day of the week, or Saturday. At the close of the meeting last evening Mr. Simpson presented to the people the need of a suitable place of worship, and in a few minutes over one thousand dollars was raised toward building a church. A central location has been purchased near Twelfth and Orange Streets, and work will be begun soon upon a neat little church edifice. The meetings still continue. Tuesday evening Mr. Simpson will show the Bible plan of raising money to carry out the work of the gospel without the aid of church fairs and festivals.”
Synopsis of Sabbath-School Lessons for Quarter Ending December 31
By A. T. Robinson
GEN. 1:26. The Lord, the King of the universe, made Adam the representative of this world.
Job 1:6. The “sons of God”—representatives of worlds—had a place of meeting for counsel. Satan gained Adam’s place in the council.
Gen. 2:8. The Lord gave Adam a sample of what the whole earth would have become at the touch of his hand had he not forfeited his rule-ship.
Gen. 1:28. Adam was given command to fill the earth with his posterity.
Gen. 6:5-8. Under Satan’s rule the world was ruined, and but one righteous man was left. See Gen. 7:1.
Gen. 9:2. The same dominion was given to Noah, after the flood, as had been given to Adam.
Gen. 9:1. The same command, to fill the world with his posterity.
Gen. 12:1-3. When Satan had once more ruined the world, and there was but one righteous man left, God called that one man out of the darkness of heathenism, and promised to make of him a great nation.
Isa. 29:6. God’s purpose concerning that nation was that they should be the light of the world.
Deut. 4:6-8; 26:17-19; 28:1, 9-13. In order that that nation might fulfil this mission in the world, God promised to make them the most exalted nation on earth.
1 Sam. 8:5-7. The first step in Israel’s formal rejection of God as their king.
1 Sam. 8:19, 20. They aspired to be like the nations around them, but in their attempt to be like other nations, they sank beneath, and became the despised of all nations.
2 Chron. 36:15, 16. The Lord did all that in his mercy he could do, to bring Israel back to their high calling.
John 19:15. The last sad act in Israel’s formal rejection of their King.
Ps. 81:11-15. The Lord mourns the failure of Israel to fulfil their mission.
Acts 13:46. When that nation whom God had called to be the light of the world had judged themselves unworthy of their calling, the call was extended to the Gentiles.
Acts 15:13-15. James declared that taking out of the Gentiles a people, is the fulfilment of all that the prophets had spoken concerning the rebuilding of David’s throne and kingdom. He then quotes Amos 9:11 as a sample of what the prophets have spoken on this point.
1 Chron. 29:23. David’s throne was the throne of the Lord, while he maintained an organized form of government in the dominion usurped by Satan.
Eze. 21:25-27. Wicked Zedekiah was the last king to sit upon the throne of the Lord.
Luke 1:32, 33. The next to sit upon that throne, when it shall be re-established, will be He “whose right it is.”
Rom. 11:25, 26. When this gathering out from the Gentiles shall be finished, “all Israel,” the complete Israel of God, will be made up.22
Jer. 5:1, 2. Satan will then once more have so far succeeded in the ruin of this world that not even one man can be found, even though there is a form of godliness.
Matt. 13:41, 42. The last act in the controversy between Christ, the second Adam or head of the human family, and Satan, the usurper, will be when He “shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire.” Note it is out of his kingdom—his kingdom all the time, though for a time claimed by the usurper.
Matt. 13:43. It will then be the “kingdom of their Father,” in which the saints shall shine forth.
It is worth carefully noting that forty-two years this side of the latest prophecy concerning the return of the Jews, the Lord had literally fulfilled to them, as a nation, all that he had promised to do for them; and had they proved true to him, they would still have been in their own land, and “their time should have endured forever.” Because they threw away their inheritance and their kingdom, God had to cast them off, and complete the gathering of Israel from among the Gentiles.
A. T. ROBINSON.
How Strength Is Gained
By F. G.
STRONG young people are needed now as never before, and never again can they be in greater demand; for time is about to be no longer. Strong young people are those in whom the word of the Lord abides, and their glory is in their strength.
We learn to do by doing. We gain our strength by working. All the records of the deeds of strong men, taken together, will never make one strong,—they can only be an inspiration to become strong,—unless they are those of the Word of God. The records in the Scriptures are a motive, and an actual force in the gaining of strength.
But even the accounts in the Scriptures of the works of strong men will be of no benefit unless the reader permits them to work in him a spirit of energy. Energy exists in two forms, potential and kinetic. Potential energy is stored-up energy. Kinetic, is a working energy. A stone resting at the top of a hill, is an example of potential energy; while that same stone rolling down hill, gaining each moment an increased momentum, and doing a work great or small according to its size and the height of the hill, is an example of kinetic, or working, energy.
Before there can be kinetic, or working, energy, there must be stored-up, or potential, energy. Enoch was translated because he recognized this law. He took time to be holy. He went away and alone with his God to store up strength and energy for his work with the people. After he had received a supply of more strength from God through humiliation of heart and the exercise of faith, he used his strength in lifting up those who were stumbling or had fallen. His receiving strength and expending it were proportionate, and consequently increasing.
Our schools are designed of God to be places where our young people can store up strength. But as with Enoch, so with those connected with these schools, the capacity to receive will always be directly proportionate with the expenditure of that which is received. With the continued using of the force and energy which may be received in these schools, will be a constant increase in strength; and thus there is a steady growth in character. The power of beginning and completing a work is always an element of a strong character.
This is what the week of prayer ought to mean to all the students in all our schools. It has been a time for the gaining of new strength for greater conquests. But strength is not gained unless we use that which we have. God is to be sought for a new experience. And this new experience is but a greater power. This is the power that is unto salvation, the power of the gospel, the power of an unselfish love. It is so great that it will compel to unselfish deeds, and to lives of service. It is to the doers, and not to those who simply hear, that the reward is to be given. The reward is nothing more nor less than stalwart, noble manhood, and pure, helpful womanhood, in God's own meaning of the words. To this end let our young people drink deep draughts from the ever-flowing fountain of life, that they may be strong and valiant to sacrifice and to do for the sacred cause of truth. F. G.
Language Teaching
In the matter of language teaching, it is not a question of whether it is essential or not essential. Every one will see the necessity of language study. This being so, the question resolves itself simply into one of aims in language study, method in language study, and the material to be used in language study.
First, we ought to find what the present status of language teaching is, then find any fault that we have to find with it, and suggest a remedy. I have only one fault to find with language teaching, and only one remedy to offer. To get them before you I wish to read a scripture that seems to me to define the status of language teaching, not only in the world, but also in our own schools to that extent to which worldly methods have come into them. “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof”—that tells it better than I can; having a form of godliness, or correctness, or rightness, but lacking in power. The exhortation is, “From such turn away.” Do not follow that kind of work. “Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth,” that is really the fault that I have to find with language teaching among us, especially as those interested in giving this great message to the world. It is just as pleasing to the enemy to divert our minds toward the form of language, and occupy us with that so fully—in studying its beauties, its symmetry, and all the attractive features for form—that we miss the power, as it is to do a like thing in religion.
“In doctrine [that is, in teaching] showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that can not be condemned.” Now sound speech, my brethren, is speech that is not only beautiful in exterior, but sound to the core. What it contains is something that will give help, will give strength, something that will impart life.
Paul said to Timothy, “Hold fast the form of sound words.” Now if a word is sound as to its quality, as to the truth and power it contains, then the most fitting thing is to put that in correct form, to hold fast the form of sound speech. It includes that, but the form is secondary, the power and the truth and the life that are in it are primary.
In the twelfth Psalm the word of the Lord is defined as to its quality. “The words of the Lord are pure words.” This does not mean that they are pure in the literary sense only, but they are pure to the very heart, the very core, their very essence is pure. How pure?—“As silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” The very emblem of perfectness in purity. Here is defined the opposite kind of words: “They speak vanity every one with his neighbor: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.” That is the external form capable of change or variation. It may not be a true index of what is within. “The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things.” But in the fifteenth Psalm we read: “Who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” Not the double hearted, but he that invariably speaks the truth in his heart. Then the seventeenth Psalm: “Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.” That is the purpose of my heart. I have the truth there, I speak the truth in my heart. In addition to that, but secondary to it, I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress in the imparting of that truth. Do you want any better language study than that?
In the thirty-second chapter of Deuteronomy, we read: “Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. My doctrine [my teaching, the words of my mouth] shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass.” The sweetest and prettiest picture that you can imagine of the impartation of truth! There are times when truth must be declared in thunder tones. There are times when the truth will reach the heart only through the sweetness of its still, small voice. “Because I will publish the name of the Lord: ascribe ye greatness unto our God.” Now his teaching distils as the dew. Not alone in the manner of dew, but the distilling of the dew is one form of speech. The very distilling itself is the voice of God speaking. In the word of God we see the secrets of power are hidden. No less perfect in form than any other,—23exquisitely perfect in form,—they have a power that is irresistible—a power that will penetrate the hardest of hearts.
What, then, is the highest aim in language teaching and in language study? Is it not the acquisition, the development, of power,—power of original thinking,—power of being and acting? If that is not the primary purpose, I misconceive the place of language teaching in Christian education; and I want to say this, that if language teaching ever comes to the place where it is not a channel through which truth and power can be imparted and developed in the student, it has no place in Christian education.
Is it not true that our language work has degenerated much into a form of study? A study of forms is necessary, but it is only as a means. There is no virtue whatever in it itself. Language is only a means to an end, invariably and always. Just the moment you make language the end in your study, you have lost the true aim. Language is an instrument. It is a tool in our hands to use, it is a vehicle to convey truth, to convey the thoughts of God; and God, who is the source and the embodiment of all truth, gives us truth in the most perfect form you can find anywhere. Let me emphasize, then, that in our language study we must seek after truth, we must strive after power to express truth, power to live the truth, power to exemplify it in all that we do.
(To be concluded)
Christian Education
By L. A. Hoopes; Frederick Griggs
Conducted by the Educational Department of the General Conference.
L. A. HOOPES, Chairman; Frederick Griggs, Secretary.
Obituaries
RILEY.—Died at Jackson, Mich., Dec. 7, 1903, of diabetes, George Benjamine Riley, aged 15 years. He was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Sabbath-school since a small child. Funeral services were conducted by the writer. A. J. HARRIS.
POLLARD.—Died in Seattle, Wash., May 26, 1903, of appendicitis, Eric, the second son of I. N. and May Pollard, aged 13 years, 6 months, and 28 days. Funeral service was conducted by the writer, at Wenax, Wash.; text, Ps. 17:15. J. G. SMITH.
MULLIKIN.—Died at Kinsley, Kan., Oct. 29, 1903, John F. Mullikin, aged 56 years, 11 months, and 25 days. He left a wife, three sons, and three daughters, who, though deeply grieved, look with much comfort to the soon-coming day of triumph. Brother Mullikin was for many years a faithful member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kansas. Funeral services were conducted by the writer. C. McREYNOLDS.
CHAPLIN.—Died at the home of C. F. Worthen, Charleston, Vt., Daniel Chaplin, aged 64 years. His death came unexpectedly. Although not professing Christianity, he loved the truth, and the morning and evening devotions at Father Worthen’s were seasons of delight to him. He loved the REVIEW, and was its constant reader. His wife, who is an Adventist, survives him. Funeral discourse was given by the writer, from Isa. 40:1. I. E. KIMBALL.
LEAVITT.—Died in St. Elizabeth Hospital, Dayton, Ohio, Nov. 21, 1903, of dropsy, Sister Mary Josephine Leavitt, aged 63 years. Early in life she united with the Methodist Church, but afterward she received the light on the Sabbath and kindred truths, and united with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. She was an earnest, consistent Christian until death. It was her delight to work for the Lord. The funeral service was conducted by the writer. F. H. HENDERSON.
LITCHFIELD.—Died at his home in Brownington, Vt., Alfred Litchfield, aged 70 years. His death was sudden, caused by apoplexy, while he was enjoying apparently perfect health. He had been an honored member of the Brownington and Charleston churches since 1880. He spent much time and effort in caring for an invalid wife and his aged father and mother. In this his patience and loving care were very noticeable. The funeral discourse was preached by the writer, Nov. 7, 1903, from Luke 13:24. I. E. KIMBALL.
Nebraska Church's Notice!
By A. T. Robinson
THERE is to be a Special Course of instruction for workers in connection with the winter term of Union College, beginning January 7, and continuing till March 3. This course will offer the best advantages to workers of anything that has ever been provided. Printed copies of the program of work outlined have been sent out, from which it will be seen that the instruction in all departments of work is to be given, principally by workers of large experience, fresh from the field. It is expected that nearly all the conference workers in the Nebraska Conference, also a large number of laborers from other conferences in the Central Union, will be in attendance.
Practical instruction in church, missionary, Sabbath-school, and young people's work will be given. It would prove a great blessing to the churches, and to the cause at large, if each church could select some person from its membership to attend this special course. Will our Nebraska churches take action in this matter? Select some one who will attend the classes for instruction in church and Sabbath-school work, and carry back to the church the blessing of the knowledge gained. If the person best adapted to take this instruction and be most benefited by it, is not able to bear the expenses of attending the Special Course, let the church provide the help necessary.
If you have not received a copy of the Special Course Announcement, please write to Prof. L. A. Hoopes, President Union College, for one. A. T. ROBINSON.
NOTICES AND APPOINTMENTS
By J. E. White; B. W. Spire
Notice!
The fifth annual stockholders' meeting of the Southern Missionary Society will be held in the chapel, 209 Fayette St., Vicksburg, Miss., Jan. 26, 1904, at 3:30 P. M. An effort is being made to secure an attendance from representative men of the North. It is altogether probable that this meeting will be adjourned until some time in February or March, so that it can be held while this representation is present. J. E. WHITE,
President Southern Missionary Society;
B. W. SPIRE, Sec.
A New Year's Gift
By Editor
A New Year's Gift.— We have made special arrangements whereby we shall be able to furnish a new subscription to Good Health and a renewal or a new subscription to The Life Boat for only eighty-five cents. This is the chance of a lifetime to secure these two magazines for considerable less than the price of one of them. Those who wish to avail themselves of this special offer should do so immediately. Address all correspondence to The Life Boat, 28 Thirty-third Place, Chicago, Ill.
Business Notices
BRIEF business notices will be published in this department subject to the discretion of the publishers. A charge of one dollar for one insertion of six lines, or less, and of twenty cents for every line over six, will be made, though in the case of the poor who wish employment, the charge may be remitted. Persons unknown to the managers of the publishing house must furnish good references.
WANTED.—S. D. A. physician as a partner to assist in town and country practise. Reference given and required. Address R. T. Harrod, M. D., Checotah, I. T.
For Sale Cheap.—Farm of 105 acres, well improved. Would take small property as part pay. Mission work cause for selling. Write for description, with stamped envelope, to J. H. Grove, Cottontown, Tenn.
Publications Wanted
N. B.—Attention has been repeatedly called to the necessity of having papers properly wrapped. Do not roll or wrap too small. Cover papers well, so that they will be clean when received. Some have paid double the postage necessary, while others have forwarded literature by express when it would have been cheaper to send it by mail, at four ounces for one cent.
The following persons desire late, clean copies of our publications, postpaid:—
Mrs. M. E. Moore, Globe, Ariz., periodicals and tracts.
Mrs. A. M. Saunders, 729 E. Houston St., San Antonio, Tex., Signs, Life Boat, tracts.
Mrs. Rosetta M. Ross, Ferry, Oceana Co., Mich., Signs, Sentinel, and tracts, such as “What Do These Things Mean?” “Signs of the Times,” and others bearing on current events.
Addresses
The address of Elder H. J. Farman is Bakersfield, Vt.
The present address of Elder Luther Warren is Stuart, Iowa.
The address of Geo. G. Johnson is 265 Duffield Ave., Galesburg, Ill.