I STILL feel to participate in the unpopular work of spreading before this generation, those precious truths of divine origin which have been, and are still trodden under foot by the Antichristian church, and buried beneath the rubbish of heathen philosophy, Romish superstition, and popular theology.
Notwithstanding seeming difficulties, and many discouragements which are thrown in the path of the christian, by the enemies of truth and good order, to obstruct the way, and to prevent, if possible, the work of restoring that portion of Bible truth which has been so long neglected, I am resolved to unite in the laborious task with those who have come up of their own free-will, and have a mind to work in this troublesome time. Although we are obliged to work with one hand, and hold a weapon of war in the other, I am persuaded that the good hand of the Lord is with us, and will prosper the work until it is completed.
I rejoice that the good Spirit of the Lord has stirred up the hearts of some to engage in this work, who are willing to risk all on the altar of sacrifice, and appropriate all their worldly gain to carry forward this enterprise. All who willingly give their substance for this purpose will hold a check on the Bank of New Jerusalem; and when the work is completed, will for corruptible things receive "glory and honor and immortality, eternal life," with "an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you." They will have an undisputed right in the city of God and free access to the tree of life. Finally, they will inherit all things.
Who would not be willing to exchange a few poor corruptible treasures of this perishable world for eternal riches and immortal blessings which cannot be estimated by mortals? Can it be possible that any will go away grieved like the young man when they learn that all is required in order to procure the durable riches promised in the book of God? I am persuaded better things of those who profess to believe that we are having the last warning message; and the last invitation to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Our faith in this matter will be proved. If we really believe "these things are so," we shall have corresponding works. "Faith without works is dead."
I expect those brethren who have had the privilege of doing but little for the advancement of this last work to be wrought for the church and world, will crave the blessing of giving, and embrace the first opportunity to aid in this enterprise. In order to do this, and make the work effectual, my opinion is that men called of God to preach, will at the same time need to be liberated so as to go out free and set these truths before the people in the power of the Spirit. "Faith cometh by hearing," "and how shall they hear without a preacher?"
We do not expect people to buy books and pay for papers until they become interested in the truths we preach and publish. When the word is preached in the power of God sent out by the Holy Spirit, brethren are stirred up to duty and active faith, which makes it easy to perform their task; for then they lose sight of this poor world and are enlivened with a bright hope of the world to come.
Unbelievers are pricked to the heart and begin to inquire if these things are so; and being convicted of the truthfulness of the message, they are ready to procure our works which treat on different subjects. Thus the pay is received for printing and the work goes on free from embarrassment.
I learned from a note in the Review that Bro. Waggoner was laboring with his hands to support his family; and others are in the same condition. New fields are opening before us, and call for help, but few can be supplied on the account of the scarcity of preachers, and because a portion of them are obliged to work with their hands to support their families. I have wished sometimes that preachers could live by faith only, and that their shoes would not wear out, and their clothes would not become old; but this is not the case. It is written "Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn." It would be cruel to muzzle the ox and then beat the poor creature because he did not move faster and tread out more corn. We cannot expect much from preachers that are bound. They have but little time to study the word and bring out of the rich storehouse things new and old to feed the flock of God.
In hope of eternal life. G. W. Holt.
Oran, N. Y., March 15th, 1855.
P. S. I recently held meetings in Van Buren about two weeks since where considerable interest was manifested and a desire to hear further. I disposed of nearly all my books, and on account of paying my rent and sickness in my family I have no money to send for more; some have turned to keep the Sabbath in that place. G. W. H.
We learn that Brn. in Mich. are anxious to obtain Bro. Waggoner's labors and to sustain him in the work. We hope he will accept the offer.—Ed.
COMMUNICATIONS.
By Helen E. Sims
From Sister Sims.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—It has been with deep interest that I have perused and carefully compared with the Scriptures of divine truth the many communications found in the Review, and many of your books and tracts which, through the agency of some good brother has been thrown in my way. It has been more than two years since my mind was awakened to this subject, and I began a thorough investigation in the Scriptures for that, which would substantiate my position with regard to the immortality of the soul, the Sanctuary and the Sabbath, but found no permanent platform whereon to rest which would agree with my former belief. Yet, I found, that the theory advocated by that little band which are denominatively styled Advents, was, as far as I could discover, in perfect unison with the Bible; and the dark and apparently impenetrable mist which, I must candidly acknowledge, has ever seemed to veil the horizon of my mind with regard to the Bible, has been torn away, reconciling many positions, which were before wholly unintelligible.
The Bible no longer seemed a sealed book; the mists, emanating from the creeds of man, were forced to disperse that the rays of divine truth might shine in all their beauty.
Often do I ask myself, Shall I be one of that bright, that happy band, "who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb?" It has been about nine months since I became convinced, that to be a true disciple of the meek and lowly Jesus, I must keep God's commandments, one of which is, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy." I have been striving in my weak way to keep it since. HELEN E. SIMS.
Fond du Lac Co., Wis., Feb. 12th, 1855.
Extracts of Letters.
Bro. Jno. Kemp writes from Jackson Ind., March 11th, 1855:—"I pray the Lord to send some efficient faithful laborers here soon. Here is a large field and some express their anxiety to hear. I am entirely alone and in the midst of bitter opposition with my family; but eternal life in the kingdom will be ours that suffer with Jesus, and bear our part with our suffering brethren."
Bro. Lewis Chase writes from Sandy Creek, N. Y., March, 1855:—"We rejoice that the cause of present truth has been prospering in this vicinity of late. Several have recently commenced keeping the Sabbath of the Lord. May the Lord enable them to endure hardness as good soldiers of the cross, and arm them with zeal according to the importance of the third angel's message, that they may act their part in advancing the cause of present truth."
Encouragement from the Review
By Avery Lanphear
From Bro. Lanphear.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—It is a pleasure, and I trust a profit, to me and my family that we have the Review to read. The communications from the brethren and sisters are encouraging to the christian. I am glad there is space in the paper devoted to such communications. They are food to the hungry, and a help to those that may be cast down, and especially to such as are scattered and have not the privilege of meeting from time to time with those who sympathize with them in feeling and in hope, looking for the appearing of our Saviour, and patiently waiting the appointed time, to wit, the redemption of the body, when this corruption shall put on incorruption, and this mortal shall put on immortality; when Jesus shall come in the clouds of heaven, and when the dead in Christ shall rise and come forth to meet their Lord and King, and be for ever with him. Let us all dear brethren and sisters strive to keep all the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, that we may have a right to the tree of life and may enter in through the gates into the city.
The subject of the immortality of the soul has been agitated some in this place, so much so that a minister was sent for to lecture on the subject. He came and lectured but failed as we thought to prove that man possessed an immortal soul. May the time soon come when truth shall prevail, and error shall cease to be; when Christ shall put all his enemies under his feet and reign King of saints.
Yours hoping for the kingdom.
AVERY LANPHEAR.
Alleghany Co., N. Y., March, 20th, 1855.
Embracing the Advent Doctrine
By B. Hamilton
From Bro. Hamilton.
Dear Bro. White: I now for the first time write to you. It is about two months since myself and companion commenced keeping all the commandments, and embraced the Advent doctrine. It was some two years ago that my mind was called to the subject of the Sabbath; but ignorance of the truth, and the superstitions of the day, and the traditions of the elders, kept me from seeing the beauty and harmony of God's law; but thanks to his holy name that I now see the right way, and feel the satisfaction that I am doing God's will and keeping his commandments.
We are determined to let our light shine before men, that they may see our good works and glorify our Father which is in heaven. Pray for us that we may meet all of God's children in his kingdom.
Your unworthy brother. B. HAMILTON.
Dakota, March 4th, 1855.
A Call for Advent Preachers
By J. B. Hall
From Bro. Hall.
Dear Bro. White:—The Review is a welcome messenger to us, it being all the preaching we have. Brn. Stephenson and Hall gave us a few lectures a year ago last October: since that time we have not even seen any of the lecturers who believe the Second Advent doctrine.
We should be glad to have some of the brethren come this way. We think much good might be done. Inquiries are often made, "Why don't some of your preachers come and preach?" The number of Sabbath-keepers here, is only five, but we feel strong in the Lord: knowing he is able to preserve us even unto the end.
Yours in Christ. J. B. Hall.
Columbia Co., Wis., March 5th, 1855.
J. LANDON
By J. Landon
From Bro. Landon.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—It is with pleasure that I peruse the Review, and receive instruction therefrom. I hope it will be sustained. I am among the afflicted of this world. The 2d day of Sept. last, a worthy companion with whom I have lived many years, fell asleep, and I trust sleeps in Jesus; and if faithful, before many days I shall see her come again with the bloom of immortal youth. She was in the 55th year of her age.
I have reason to be thankful to God for the instruction I have received through the Advent brethren, just before Satan came with his strong delusion of Spiritualism; for I think we have entered upon perilous times. Men and women have become wizards and witches, all through this section; or according to modern name, mediums. What a blessing from the Lord that he should send his servants to notify the churches of the dogma of Satan, immortal-soulism, which he has so strongly fastened upon the minds of the people, before Satan began to work his miracles, that those who are honest might see before they are snared.
J. LANDON
Jamesville, March 13th, 1855.
To the Brethren in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.
By J. Hart
DEAR BRETHREN:—If you are desirous to have a Tent in your States the coming season, we in Vt. will try to assist you in getting one. Your claim is with us in the one we have; but we think that one will be required all of the time in Vt., Canada, and Northern and Eastern New York. Let the brethren address O. Nichols, Dorchester, Mass. that the arrangement may be made in season.
In behalf of the Church in Vermont.
J. HART.
Giving
GIVING.—Serving God with our little, is the way to make it more; and we must never think that wasted with which God is honored.
FOREIGN NEWS.
By Editor
The United States Mail steamer Atlantic, from Liverpool noon of Saturday, the 10th inst., arrived yesterday morning at 3 o'clock.
By this arrival we learn of the peaceable accession of the Czar Alexander II, and of his declaration to follow the policy of his father Nicholas. Constantine and the other princes of the Imperial house have signified their allegiance to the new Emperor. The hopes that were entertained throughout Europe of a peace policy, in accordance with the supposed personal character of Alexander, were becoming more faint. The influence of the powerful party at the head of whom is the Grand Duke Constantine, it was feared would urge the Czar forward in a course opposed to his better judgment. His first appointments of the Ministers were, however, regarded favorable for peace. Meanwhile, the allies determine to seize the opportunity of the uncertainty which the news of the death of Nicholas must occasion, to prosecute the war with vigor. There has been more fighting in the Crimea, and more threatened. The Conferences have commenced at Vienna. Gortschakoff having received from the Czar Alexander a confirmation of his previous instructions.
The previously reported death of the late Emperor Nicholas is fully confirmed, and his successor, Emperor Alexander II, has succeeded peaceably to the Russian throne. The new Emperor has issued a manifesto stating that he will adhere to the policy of his father. Constantine and his other brothers and officers of the Empire had taken oaths of allegiance to the new Emperor. Alexander has confirmed as Diplomatist at the Peace Conference, Gortschakoff, whose previous instructions are also confirmed, and the first conference has been held at Vienna. Alexander had appointed Gen. Rudiger, Minister of War. The Allies have ordered their Generals to press forward the war with the utmost vigor.
There has been more fighting in the Crimea. The French stormed a redoubt, which had been skillfully erected by the Russians during the night, and several hundred of the Russians were killed, and there was a general rumor that the Grand Duke Michael was among the wounded, and that he had subsequently died at Sebastopol. A large force of Russians are threatening Balaklava. The blockade of the Danube has been raised.
Tent for Wisconsin.
By J. M. Stephenson; D. P. Hall
We would say to Brn. in Wisconsin, that believing the time has fully come for our views to be placed more publicly before the people of our State, we have made arrangements to procure a Tent to aid us in the prosecution of this object. Being in Rochester where Tents can be procured, and not having time to consult with our friends in Wisconsin, we have taken the responsibility of purchasing one, and trusting them for the means necessary to pay for the same. By consulting the most rigid economy, we shall be able to obtain a Tent large enough to convene fifteen hundred persons, for the sum of about $150. The expense of transportation will be about $10.
In order to aid us in this enterprise Bro. White has consented to let us have the use of $75 of funds very recently put into his hands by friends, to aid in the publication of Review, and tracts. This means Bro. White will want immediately to pay debts already contracted. For the balance due on Tent we have four months pay day. We shall expect our friends to send the $75 to Bro. White as soon as possible. All money sent to Bro. White for the Wisconsin Tent will be credited in the Review. J. M. STEPHENSON, D. P. HALL.
M. E. CORNELL
By Editor
Brn. Stephenson and Hall design meeting the Brn. in Conference at Mill Grove, N. Y., Sabbath and First-day, Apr. 7th and 8th. We design to meet with them. It is hoped there will be a good attendance—one or more from all the small churches in this part of the State. It would be desirable to occupy a Meeting-house on First-day, if the friends can obtain one in the vicinity.
☛ THE April No. of the YOUTH'S INSTRUCTOR is necessarily delayed one week.
☛ THE NEW HYMN BOOK is printed and in the hands of the Binder. It contains 352 pp. and 76 pieces of music. In regard to the first 224 pp. Bro. Cornell says:
I HAVE examined critically 224 pages of the new Hymn Book, and am much pleased with the choice and variety of Hymns. Heretofore we have been deprived of appropriate Hymns for several points in our faith. I think the churches generally will appreciate the new Book, not only for the variety and excellence of the Hymns, but also for their order and good arrangement.
I would suggest that the members of the several churches be prepared to supply themselves with the new Book, the first opportunity after it is completed. I recommend this for two reasons; first, that the new Book may be brought into immediate use, and, second, that Bro. White may have the means to meet the debts incurred in publishing the Book.
M. E. CORNELL
Battle Creek, March 22d, 1855.
Business.
By Editor
Mary E. Haskell.—We have received your letter of Feb 27th. The names for the INSTRUCTOR were then entered on our books, and the papers sent. The books ordered were also sent, addressed to S. N. H., Princeton, Mass., as you directed. The REVIEW and INSTRUCTOR have been sent regularly to Hubbardston. Why they have not been received is more than we can tell. We now send the back numbers. The books you now order we send to Princeton, Mass., with the exception of "Conversation on the Sabbath Question," of which we have none on hand.
S. Burdick.—We received a letter about the first of March, containing $5, three for Bro. Andrews, and two for the paper. There was no name given, and we receipted it in No. 24 to "Anonymous." Doubtless that was the letter you refer to.
M. Brown—You will find answers to your questions in the REVIEW, Vol. V, No 22, in the article headed, "The Review"
Will Bro. Sperry give us the name of the brother at Plattsburg who gave him $1 for REVIEW. Bro. Byington has lost the name.
L. Richmond—You will find your first payment for L. S. McClure's paper receipted in Vol VI, No 1.
Wm. L. Camp—The P. O. Address of Bro. Wm. S. Ingraham is Ulyssess, Potter Co., Pa.
☞ Will the person who sent us the name of Deborah McCollins for the REVIEW, please give us again her P. O. Address.
Receipts.
By Editor
J S Wager, (for G Person.) H Nuttall, P Brigham, H E Sims, E Dunham, M Miner, G W Larabee, A Lanphear, R Cole, N G Sanders, C Boomhour, B Herns, G Hamilton, R Burdick, L P Miller, D C Satterlee, Wm Deeter, Mrs M M Nelson, J Nims, H Garfield, each $1. J Pemberton, I S Chaffee, (one for S L C,) J Byington, a Friend, J Lowry, each $2. E L H Chamberlain $2.50. A Hilliard $1.75. J Landon $1.70. D Williams $0.70. B Carter $0.18. Church in Vermont, by J Hart, $45.—$57, 54, behind on REVIEW.
FOR THE EXTRA.—Waukau Wis, A A Dodge, a Friend, each $1. C S Hurlbut, E L H Chamberlain each $0.50. J Whitmore $0.27.
FOR J. N. A.—A Friend, E Dunham, L O Stowell, each $1. A Friend $2. P Folsom $3. J Byington $4.
FOR TENT IN NEW YORK.—A Friend $2.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH
By John Norton Loughborough
PROVIDENCE permitting, I will meet with the Brn in North Brookfield, Sabbath, Apr. 7th, and give a series of lectures as the Brn. shall arrange, commencing the evening after the Sabbath.
Before returning to Rochester I intend to spend a few days at Lorain, Jefferson Co. Will Bro. A. H. Robinson address me at North Brookfield, in regard to the prospect, that I may appoint definitely.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH
Appointments.
By Editor
Conference at Jackson,
PROVIDENCE permitting, there will be a Conference at Jackson, Mich., to commence April 20th, at 2 P. M. and hold several days. Brn. Stephenson and Hull now design being present. We hope to be able to attend.
It is desirable that there should be a delegation from all the churches in the State at this meeting. At this season of the year, a large assembly cannot be easily entertained. Many must come with the expectation of taking care of themselves, as far as possible. The time is so short, that we cannot wait to hear from Brn. in Mich.; we therefore take the responsibility to give the appointment without consulting them.—Ed.