The Review and Herald, Review and Herald, Vol. 47, No. 12.
The Coming Religious StrugglePage 1
Earlier text: PRES. ASA MAHAN ON THE SABBATHWHY STAND YE ALL THE DAY IDLE?
By M. L. Huntley
No words can express the importance of the truths applicable to the present time. Never has there been a proclamation so freighted with life or death to the world as the third angel’s message. Its acceptance will secure to each an immortal existence, complete in happiness; while those who refuse to heed its solemn warning must drink of the wine of the wrath of God, poured out without mixture, and be forever lost in the darkness and gloom of an eternal death. There is no neutral ground; we either gather with Christ or scatter abroad. It is a battle and a march toward the kingdom of God. To be inactive at such a time is as sinful in God’s sight as open hostilities in ordinary times. Though results of such momentous importance follow the proclamation of this message, God has ordained that man shall be the agent to carry it to his fellow-men. The Spirit of God has brought the truth to bear upon our hearts, revealing the only path of safety, and the fate of those who reject it. Now the question arises, What does God require of us? Shall we be justified in remaining quietly at home, seeking our own comfort and the things of this life? The command is, “Go ye into all the world;” “freely ye have received, freely give.” When imminent danger threatens any portion of the country, and lives are in peril, there are those who will spare no pains to give the warning; but now infinitely more is at stake, and who is stirred? Let us carefully consider what occupies our daily and most earnest thoughts. Is it to devise ways and means to advance the cause of God? The humblest talent can be of service in the cause of present truth. But it requires daily and prayerful study to know how to labor successfully; and this will bring the mind into a condition to be susceptible to the impressions of the Spirit of God. There is a crisis in the experience of individuals when they waver between right and wrong. At such a time a word fitly spoken, or some act of disinterested benevolence, will often turn the scale in the right direction; whereas if the opportunity is lost, the individual passes beyond the reach of help. The true missionary will watch for such openings. God has laid a responsibility upon us which we cannot lay aside. Are we sinful? There is a fountain in which we may wash and be clean. Are we deficient in view of infirmities? “Most gladly,” says the apostle, “will I rather glory in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” By refusing to do what we can in the cause of God, we commit an error that will fall upon us with crushing weight in the judgment. My brother, my sister, why stand ye all the day idle? If you have no money, here are publications without money and without price. Are you unable to explain the truth to others? These will speak for you. Are you pressed with necessary cares and burdens? Remember the lilies of the field, the sparrows that have neither storehouse nor barns. God careth for them—are ye not much better? Do you lack wisdom? Ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally and it shall be given you. The word comes to us, “Go forward.” God will open the way to surmount the difficulties. From the N. E. T. & M. Society paper, entitled, “The Missionary Worker.” SPIRITUALISM—PAGANISM
By J. H. Waggoner
An article, copied into the American spiritualist papers from the Medium and Daybreak, of England, describes the “materialization” of the spirit of Thomas Ronalds, who, in a “seance,” revealed as follows:— “I have to inform you that my last life on earth was a re-incarnation. In a former existence I was a Persian prince, and lived upon the earth some hundreds of years before Christ. In that life I was possessed of a quantity of beautiful and valuable jewels. Strange to say I have become aware of the existence of those jewels in this very city of London. They are diamonds of the purest water and brilliancy, and, moreover, they are charmed stones, and would therefore be of inestimable value to their possessor. I wish you, my dear brother, to become the purchaser of those stones.” Here is a revival of two heathen pagan notions: the transmigration of souls, and the possession of charmed objects to preserve from harm. We lately heard some of this class object to the Bible on the ground that it was merely a transcript of pagan dogmas. Yet they are ever ready to adopt the most absurd dogmas of paganism contrary to the teachings of the Bible. If they really believe that the Bible is of Pagan origin they are singularly inconsistent in rejecting it, for they take to pagan notions as a duck takes to water. But in this instance the doctrine was turned to practical account, as the following will show. It is an extract from the instruction of the spirit for the disposal of the ring in which were set the charmed jewels:— “This ring, my dear brother, I wish you to present to our medium, Arthur Colman, as a testimonial of my gratitude to him for his services in enabling me to materialize for you. . . . It will be a talisman to protect him; it will increase his power as a medium; and with that ring he can never want a friend; indeed, he will bear a species of charmed life.” The unbeliever may be so uncharitable as to suppose that the medium had something to do with the direction, but spiritualists, who profess to be guided only by reason(!), cannot see it. The spirit gave very explicit directions as to where the stones might be found, and how obtained, and the brother was stimulated to activity in the matter by the information that another party was intending to purchase the ring the following day. This is a dodge often played by speculators in this world, and we are led to suspect that the spirit which dictated the direction was not far removed from the plane of earthly interests. The narrator says the instructions were carried out strictly. Evidence of the power of the ring is given as follows:— “Mr. Colman had accompanied us, and neither of us could long trust ourselves to look at those stones, their influence nearly sending us into the trance.” Such is the power of delusion over those who reject the truth of God. See 2 Thess. 2: 1–12.—J. H. WAGGONER, in Signs. PICKING UP STICKS AND KINDLING A FIRE.
By Roswell F. Cottrell
The Israelites in the desert were forbidden to kindle fires in their habitations on the Sabbath. They had no need of fire to keep them warm, and their cooking for the Sabbath was done, as it is done now by those who keep the Sabbath, on the sixth day of the week. But the Sabbath was made for man, and it requires nothing hard or unmerciful of him. In the cold season there were times when fires were needed in Palestine, and it was right, and in perfect harmony with the Sabbath law, to kindle them on the Sabbath day. Objectors against the Sabbath argue that the Sabbath commandment is not applicable here, because fires are needed, and it prohibits them. The Sabbath law contains no such prohibition. Fires are not forbidden where they are needed. They were not needed in the desert; and hence no one would kindle a fire but for some unlawful purpose. But they were needed in the land of Israel, and the prohibition in the desert was not applicable there; but the commandment was, and so it is here. It is amusing how flippantly objectors will talk of “picking up sticks and kindling fires” being forbidden to those required to keep the Sabbath; as though the man that was “found gathering sticks” was doing so only to build a fire. The testimony taken in its connection shows that he was presumptuously pursuing his ordinary labors on that day,—gathering timbers for some mechanical industry, perhaps. The gathering of sticks and the kindling of fires have no connection, only as they are brought together by those who wish to excuse themselves from keeping the commandment of God. The Lord Jesus has said, “The Sabbath was made for man.” To disprove this statement, men argue thus: The commandment forbids the kindling of fires. But fires are needed here. Therefore the Sabbath was made only for the Jews. How often we hear it said that the Gentiles were never required to keep the Sabbath. But there is positive evidence to the contrary. Right in connection with the incident of the gathering of sticks on the Sabbath, related as an illustration of the demerit of presumptuous sins, it is said, “Ye shall have one law for him that sinneth through ignorance, both for him that is born among the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth among you. But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the Lord; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” Num. 15:29, 30. And in Isa. 56, the same gracious promises which are made to Israel are extended to the “sons of the stranger” who serve the Lord, “every one that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it.” These testimonies prove that in the service of the Lord there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles. Let us examine these popular arguments a little, to see if they bring us to the conclusions which are inferred. The Sabbath is only intended for those living in a warm climate, where no fires are needed for warming the people. Therefore the Sabbath was made only for the Jews. Is this conclusion logical? Jews have lived in different climates. From the premises the conclusion should be: Jews and Gentiles in a warm climate should keep the Sabbath; but neither are under obligation to keep it in a cold climate. But if the Sabbath was made for the Jews, and not for the Gentiles, then the Jews are under obligation to keep it wherever they are, if it were in “Greenland’s icy mountains,” or under the burning sun of the torrid zone. Let those who argue from such premises bring out the conclusion to which their premises lead. A MISSIONARY LETTER: WHAT IS IT?
By Stephen Nelson Haskell
If a letter is written upon business or friendship, and present truth is simply brought in, it would not be what is intended by a missionary letter. A missionary letter is one written expressly to benefit persons spiritually. No one form will apply to all. It should be adapted to the circumstances and conditions of the individual. The one who is acquainted with the individual addressed should know best how to approach him. There may be times when an allusion to past friendship would make a letter more effective. To those sending a copy of the SIGNS to individuals they have never seen, we offer the following suggestions:— 1. Write a letter or postal card, stating that you have sent them a paper in which you are interested, and that you would like to hear from them, how they like it. 2. It is usually well to state that their names were sent you by a friend who thought they might be interested to read it, or something of that kind. 3. Do not mention any particular doctrine advocated by the paper, unless you have reason to believe it would impress them favorably. 4. When they have written you in reference to it you can better judge when and how to solicit a subscription or donation. 5. By prayer, and giving the subject much thought, with experience, some have become very successful in this branch of the work. IMPORTANCE OF PRAYER.
By C. L. Gregory
True prayer implies dependence, accompanied with a desire to obtain promised blessings. Children sometimes ask their parents with great importunity for things which have never been promised them, but positively forbidden. All true parents will give their children, if possible, all things that will in their opinion benefit them. So it is with our Heavenly Father. He has not probably given his children since the fall Adam all which they have desired, however importunate they may have been. “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it on your lusts.” James 4:3. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him.” Matt. 7:11. It is not an earthly potentate who has invited us to approach him in all our degradation that he may bestow on us wealth and honor. If such was the case, we should hasten to his presence. But our Heavenly Father, the Creator, who sits on the throne of the universe, is ready to bestow all needed blessings, on every living son and daughter of Adam who asks for them through the merits of his dear Son. Every prodigal who returns to his Father’s house is at times filled with inexpressible joy and peace. He says to his companions, “Come thou with us, and we will do thee good; for the Lord hath spoken good concerning Israel.” And why? Just watch his movements. See, he has gone into a lone closet; he has shut the door, and now in humble supplication is moving the arm which moves the world. Alone, yet not all alone, he pleads that God would have mercy on himself, a companion, child, brother or sister, or perhaps an enemy. He becomes importunate. He says, like Jacob, “I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.” He is now coming out with his face radiant with hope, for he has prevailed. A few weeks or months have elapsed, and he goes mourning all the day. Look into that lone chamber. It is almost or quite deserted. He has forsaken his beloved, and is saying in the pride of his heart, I can walk alone, I have no need of thee. Consequently he is overcome by enemies for a time, if not forever. All eminent Christian men and women since the fall have been much in prayer, and thus they have cast a halo of light amid the surrounding darkness. Individuals and churches have spent all night in prayer. If Christ oftimes spent the lonely hours of darkness in a solitary place on the mountains pleading with his Father in behalf of mankind, even for his enemies, how much more ought we who are sinners by nature and practice to wrestle with him until we prevail. All who once loved God with all the heart and are not now walking with him, first left their closet and tried their own strength. They fell, and oh! what a fall! “Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire,
Unuttered or expressed.” “Prayer is the Christian’s vital breath,
The Christian’s native air.” If we leave our own atmosphere, we must breathe one of pestilence and death. I think I can see signs through all our ranks of a “coming up to the help of the Lord against the mighty.” Some are walking more closely with him, and are earnestly entreating that he would pour his Spirit out on the children of men. It makes me think that the loud cry of the third angel is near. It will come in answer to prayer accompanied with works. Shall I be among the pleading ones?—Will you? THE willing and obedient soul desires to know with positive certainty the will of God, that he may do it; but the teachings of professed Christians are different and conflicting. What can he do but go to the fountain head of truth, the Bible, let it speak for itself, and, as an apostle says, “Let God be true and every man a liar”? MICHIGAN
By Dudley Marvin Canright
Wednesday, March 8, Bro. Lamson and myself came to Dryden. Several of the Almont church also met with us. The Dryden church was raised up by Bro. Lamson two years ago. They have bought a school-house for a church, so that they have a good place in which to hold meetings. The brethren are nearly all in moderate circumstances, but they appeared to be good people. Our house was crowded full at evening. I spoke upon baptism. The next morning Bro. Lamson baptized three sisters, who united with the church. We considered the subject of Systematic Benevolence and re-organized it. They raised their pledge from $82 to $135. Several not present will be visited by the treasurer and add their pledges. There is a good interest to hear, with a fair prospect of more additions. Only a few came from Almont. This church is in a very low condition. It seemed to be hard work for them to understand S. B., or to do much about it. There has been a deplorable lack in this church, which has nearly ruined it. It needs straight discipline to save them. The next day we came to Armada, the home of Bro. Lamson. This is also a new church. They have built them a very nice meeting-house, and finished it up very tastefully. A large number embraced the Sabbath here, but they have suffered for the want of some leading talent among them. The roads were very bad, and only a part of the brethren were out; but there was a good attendance from outside. As usual, after meeting I took up the subject of S. B. From the commencement, I saw that they were not very much interested in it. Some who were there did not stay to hear. When we asked a vote upon it only a few voted for it, and one man voted against it, the first man that I have found in Michigan who has done so. He threw his whole influence against it, and would do nothing himself in any way. A few pledged very fairly, others nothing. I felt very much grieved at the spirit manifested here. If this church ever prospers the members will have to take a different course with regard to helping the cause. My observation has been that brethren and churches who do not give of their means to sustain the different enterprises of our work soon wither and die, or drag out a sickly existence. I am further satisfied that their action in this respect depends largely upon the course pursued toward them when they are first raised up. If they are petted and coaxed, and their burdens carried for them, this course will always have to be pursued toward them, or they will feel grieved, get into trial, and probably give up the truth. It is astonishing to think that a person worth his thousands, entirely independent, can profess to believe and love this truth, and yet not be willing to give a dollar to support it. The less the cause has of such men the better it will be for it. I fear that Bro. L. has been too tender of these matters in all his churches. The next day, with Bro. Lamson, I came to Memphis. The roads were so bad that few could come from other places, and it was with much difficulty that those near by came out. However, on the Sabbath we had a good turnout of all the friends of the cause. We had a good social meeting in the morning, after which Bro. L. preached. In the afternoon I had much freedom in appealing to the people to seek the Lord. When I gave an invitation to come forward for prayers, nearly every unconverted person in the house improved the opportunity. There were about twenty-five young men and women. Most of these arose and expressed a determination to engage in earnest in the work of seeking the Lord. We felt as though it was the deciding point with them. Every effort will now be made to assist them in making thorough work. Sunday, when we expected to accomplish the most, the roads were almost impassable, and it stormed besides, so that only a little over half the church were out. We took up various matters and duties. There were several wishing baptism, but it was so stormy that we had to postpone it one week. Bro. L. will remain with them another week at least, to follow up the interest, to baptize, and to complete the work. I was much gratified to find most of the brethren and sisters ready to take hold with us in our effort here; and, as a consequence, all their children were ready to move forward with them. There was only one drawback during the whole meeting, and that was the position which some occupied upon the subject of S. B. This church, like some others, started in wrong upon this point. Most of them had simply pledged a small amount weekly, without any regard to the amount of property they were worth. The consequence was that the pledge of this large church (fifty-seven members, and over one hundred Sabbath-keepers) was exceedingly small, only $117 per year, about $2.00 apiece per year. I set the matter before them as fully as I was able. Most of them were willing to do somewhere near what they should do; but some of the wealthiest held back, and thus kept others back. They not only failed to do their duty, but stood in the way of others. But I am glad to say that they changed their minds before I came away, and came up square and right, and put down their property as they should. God will bless them in this. I think their pledge now will be over $400. Bro. L. is to see those who were not at the meeting. For three years there had been a very embarrassing trial in this church. Several efforts had been made to settle it, but without effect. So on Monday we called the parties and the church together. After hearing both sides, and all the evidence in the case, the parties were dismissed, and we reviewed the matter. All agreed on a statement of the case, and took a vote upon it. Then the parties were called back, and I made a statement to them of the decision of the church. We were much gratified to find both parties willing to accept the decision of the church and act upon it. Hearty confessions were made by both parties. Then they came together and renewed their friendship with tears and good promises. We then bowed together and had a sweet season of prayer. Many brethren said it was the best meeting they had had for years, and others said they felt as happy as when they were first converted. Solemn promises were made by all present to bury the whole subject forever, and never talk about it in any manner in the future. I believe they will keep this promise. Bro. Lamson has assisted me greatly for the last three weeks. I have enjoyed his society very much. I hope the Lord may abundantly bless him in his labors. I was glad to find him an active, studious man. It is a shame for a minister to be anything else.
D. M. CANRIGHT. Lapeer, Mich., March 14, 1876. NEW ENGLAND.
By Stephen Nelson Haskell
We met with the friends in Lay Fayette, R. I., Feb. 19 and 20. There have been things of a discouraging nature in this State which have stood in the way of the prosperity of the work. Steps were taken at this meeting which, if carried out, will bring relief. Very little has been accomplished in the tract and missionary work for the past two years. It was voted that Bro. B. F. Carpenter co-operate with Bro. Tucker in visiting the brethren and sisters in this district, and that special efforts be made to seek God and to take hold of the missionary work anew, collect their present indebtedness to the T. and M. Society, and encourage the brethren to lay aside their difficulties, and draw near to God by having something better to occupy their minds. Could all realize the importance of the truth and the time in which we live, there would be no time in which to backslide and falter by the way. The “Appeal” of the General Conference Committee might be frequently read in many of our churches with profit. Sabbath and first-day, Feb. 26, 27, we attended the district quarterly meeting at Boston. The brethren feel more encouraged since New Year's. Boston ever has been a hard place to hold, but the friends are of good courage and meet regularly at their hall, corner of Dorchester and Third Streets. At present there are indications that others will be added to their numbers. March 4 and 5, the general quarterly meeting was held at New Ipswich, N. H. This was the largest meeting we have ever held at this place. There was a general representation from many of our churches in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Bro. Tucker was also present from R. I. Our business meeting on Sunday was one not soon to be forgotten. The wants of the cause generally, as well as in New England, were presented, especially the Pacific Mission and sustaining the SIGNS OF THE TIMES. We firmly believe that there has never been a periodical issued by Seventh-day Adventists so well calculated to meet the prejudice that exists in the minds of many against the truth, and to prepare the way for the onward march of present truth, as the SIGNS. The brethren expressed themselves freely. Bro. Cummings spoke feelingly, comparing the state of the cause at the present time with its condition three years ago, when it was voted at a meeting held at this place that he should move to Battle Creek. Then, there had been no special move made in Europe. Now, three active missionaries are in that field, with about two hundred Sabbath-keepers, and are now starting a periodical in the center of Europe, besides having already printed a number of tracts in the French language. A flourishing College has also been erected at Battle Creek, Mich., and students are in attendance who expect ere long to go into different parts of the world as missionaries. Two large two-story brick buildings have been added to the two already existing; one at Battle Creek, and one on the Pacific Coast, for the purpose of sending out the light of truth. A weekly paper has completed its first volume on the Pacific Coast, finding its way to thousands of interested readers, both in the Old World, and in this country. Bro. C. expressed his confidence in the mission of the SIGNS, and in the conductors of the same. He wished to help this Conference and to help that young institution. He therefore proposed to give five hundred dollars toward the circulation of the SIGNS in this Conference. It will be remembered that Bro. Cummings at a sacrifice sold all his stock, farming tools, and every vestige of personal property, left his farm without income, removed to Battle Creek, and remained a year and a half, then returned to it to commence anew. Others gave one hundred dollars each, some fifty, and some less, until about twelve hundred dollars were pledged to the Tract Society for this purpose. Adding this to over seven hundred dollars which had been voluntarily sent in during the past quarter from scattered individuals, and the pledges taken in R. I. among themselves, and the Tract Society of N. E., not less than two thousand dollars have been secured to the Tract Society for prosecuting this work within the last four months. We have during this time refused more than one hundred dollars in New England from those we did not believe were able to pay. No year since the N. E. Tract Society was organized could it give such a financial report as this. Now, how shall we account for this, in a winter of unusually hard times and the Society commencing the last quarter with unusual discouragements resting upon it, some drawing back who had freely donated to its support formerly? We know of but one reason to assign: God has signally blessed the effort to sustain the cause upon the principle of equality as set forth by the Spirit of God. To God be all the praise. It will require at least one thousand dollars more to carry through the enterprise of the SIGNS and keep up other branches of the missionary work for 1876 in New England. Our brethren throughout the Conference we believe will be ready to co-operate in this work. What we most lack in every Conference is devoted men and women who have the burden of the work of God upon them, and who will labor unselfishly for the salvation of others. Then the cause will be supported. Five hundred dollar men, and thousand dollar men will be ready to fill up the ranks. The example set by New York and New England we believe will be followed by all the Conferences in this country. One item of interest might here be mentioned. The example of the individual is worthy to be followed everywhere. Sister Temple, while on her way to the meeting upon the cars, conversed with individuals upon the subject of present truth. A lady of intelligence became interested in what was said. She had had the VOICE OF TRUTH sent her in its trial volume. She came to the meetings, and returned home rejoicing in the truth. Her testimony at the meeting was intelligent, clear, and decided. The Lord is certainly in this work, and the word from every quarter is, “Go forward.” May God speed the triumph of his work. S. N. Haskell. Jan. 29 and 30, held meetings at Granville. Both the weather and traveling were such as to render it very difficult crossing the mountains to get to this meeting, yet a goodly number of the brethren and sisters were present. One brother sixty years of age crossed the lofty range of the Green Mountains on foot to meet with us. One sister walked eight miles on returning home. Preached in the town hall on Sabbath. The Spirit of God was present to help and to set the truth home in power to the hearts of some not of our faith. The evening following the Sabbath, and on first-day, attended to the business of the quarterly meeting. This is a new district, separated last August from the main body of Dist. No. 4, lying west of the Green Mountains. It had at the time of the meeting but thirteen members, all poor, or in but moderate circumstances, yet as a body active in missionary efforts. They show considerably the largest number of pages of tracts and pamphlets distributed of any district in the State. Systematic Benevolence was renewed, and two persons were received as candidates for baptism. A spirit of courage and good cheer seemed to pervade the hearts of all as we separated. Feb. 5 and 6, held meetings here. Preached twice on Sabbath. Some had a great distance to drive, making them late, which, with a cold house all day, and other causes, rendered our meeting not as profitable as we could desire. Some of these things we need not, and trust we shall not, meet in the future. On first-day morning had an excellent social meeting. Resolutions made on reading the “Earnest Appeal” of the General Conference Committee, and on spending the first Sabbath in January of this year as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer, were referred to and renewed, and other vows made on keeping more sacredly the Sabbath of the Lord, and visiting the lonely ones, which we hope may be remembered. The reports of tract and missionary labor were not as full and encouraging as we could have hoped; yet some here certainly have a mind to work, and have been trying to do what they could. There are heavy responsibilities resting upon some of the members of this church, and most gladly would they do more were they not bound at present by circumstances beyond their control. Several have been added to the Bristol church within the past year, some of whom are moving far ahead of the old members on the principles of health reform. One of these brethren, living in another State, writes of his strong confidence in present truth, of the clear light shining forth from95 our publications, and of his wish to do all he can in scattering them. Systematic Benevolence was renewed, and one youth received as a candidate for baptism. Am sorry I could spend no more time in this place, and that brethren felt they must hurry home so soon. Was with this church from Feb. 11-15. Visited every family of Sabbath-keepers but two, and held meetings three days. Our meetings were very encouraging. At the close of the last we celebrated the ordinances of the Lord’s house. As we parted with these brethren hope and courage seemed to fill their hearts. Scattered as are these brethren among the thinly settled Green Mountains, we cannot expect that amount of missionary labor that we do in some other localities. Remote from market, and unable to raise much to sell, financially they can not do all their love for the truth would prompt them to do. Still I know of no church in our Conference that more promptly pays their S. B. Some have made pledges for different branches of the work. They have not been able to pay, but only ask for time to meet them. Had the spiritual strength of this church been increased proportionally with its increase of members on the settlement of so many brethren here some years since, it might to-day have been a bright and shining light. Union and united action are needed in bearing out to the world the closing message of salvation. Reports of tract and missionary work from this small district were of an encouraging character. A letter from a sister in another State, who, with her companion, is canvassing for our publications, visiting and praying with the families, speaks of the joy she experiences on seeing the readiness with which some received them, with the good tidings they publish, and the books and periodicals they carry to their doors. From here I went to Windham, fifteen miles, where two young brethren formerly from Jamaica reside. Spoke once with good freedom; and after the close of the meeting answered several questions on Bible subjects raised by a man of infidel sentiments. The candid received help. Soon after these brethren moved into the place a minister came and preached against the Sabbath, stating that the ten commandments were abolished. To this his hearers objected, telling him he must be in error. The people wish to hear more. Here would be a favorable place for a course of lectures, I judge. But I could stop only one evening. May our brethren here prove themselves good representatives of the truth they hold. Says Christ, “Ye are the light of the world.” A. S. HUTCHINS. Poor fainting spirit, still hold on thy way—
The dawn is near!
True, thou art weary; but yon brightening ray
Becomes more clear.
Bear up a little longer—wait for rest—
Yield not to slumber, though with toil oppressed. This night of life is mournful—but look on—
The dawn is near!
Soon will earth's shadowy scenes and forms be gone—
Yield not to fear.
The mountain's summit will, ere long, be gained,
And the bright world of joy and peace attained. “Joyful through hope,” thy motto still must be,
The dawn is near!
What glories will that dawn unfold to thee!
Be of good cheer!
Gird up thy loins; bind sandals on thy feet;
The way is dark and long, the end is sweet. About the 1st of November I went to Pilot Knob, Adams Co., and held meetings five weeks. A portion of the time I was assisted by Bro. Thurston. As the result, ten commenced to keep the Sabbath. Feb. 8, I came to Valley Junction, Monroe Co., to fill an appointment for Bro. Samborn while he was called to Pierce County. I found the most bitter prejudice existing in many minds. I began meetings in a private house; but prejudice soon gave way and the school-house was opened. We have had a good attendance throughout. Fourteen have taken their stand upon the Sabbath, which makes a company of about twenty, with those who were already Sabbath-keepers. I shall continue to labor in this vicinity for some time, and trust yet to see a strong church raised up through the blessing of God. G. C. TENNEY. IOWA AND MAINE.
By C. A. Washburn
Soon after the quarterly meeting at Waukon, mentioned in my last report, I met with the Swedish church at Village Creek, Iowa. A few have been added to the church since it was first organized. Bro. C. L. Hammen and family have moved to Crawford Co., Iowa. We have since heard that he was drowned in attempting to cross a rapid stream. While at home I held meetings with the church at Waukon, during which five were received into the church. Bro. J. P. Farnsworth was duly elected and ordained deacon. I also met with the West Union church on Sabbath and first-day. Bro. F. H. Chapman was duly elected and ordained deacon of this church. Two were baptized, and one united with the church. I received a request from a member of the Bradford church, desiring some one to come there and hold meetings, which request I made through the REVIEW as a “Call for Help.” I make this statement by way of correction, as I am informed it did not express the sentiment of the church. I am now in Paris, Me., my native State, visiting my aged mother and other relatives whom I had not seen for nearly twenty years. I have met with the little church in Woodstock, Me., several times, and have, by request, spoken twice in a school-house at Snow's Falls, and once in the Andrews school-house in Paris. I have also given a short course of lectures in North Woodstock. Some have manifested a good degree of interest in the truth, acknowledging that these things are Bible truths, but do not as yet obey. My address is North Paris, Me. AFTER the death of my children I attended the quarterly meeting at Rock Creek, Dec. 4, 5, then the meetings at Centerville, Dec. 11, 12, both of which have been reported. Dec. 13, I started with my family to the southern part of the State, joining Bro. Stevens at Union Center Dec. 16, where he had been holding meetings for two weeks. Having a very fair interest, we continued there until Jan. 30, holding meetings whenever the house was not otherwise occupied. Six or seven embraced the Sabbath. During this time we held some meetings with the Elk Falls and Canola churches; also at a school-house south of the Elk Falls church. At the Elk Falls church quite a number made a start in the service of the Lord, most of whom were children of Sabbath-keepers. We then came to Eureka, the county seat of Greenwood Co., and engaged the court-house. Commenced meetings Feb. 8. Finding the court-room a difficult place to speak so as to be understood, we moved to the Christian church, which was freely opened for us. Up to this time have given thirty discourses to congregations ranging from fifty to one hundred. The ministers have stood directly between us and the people, keeping the most of their members from attending our meetings. To-day we secured the insertion of an article in each of the papers published here, inviting the ministers to invite their people, and with them come and hear us review the evidences we have produced for the Sabbath. A few have embraced the Sabbath; others are interested, but say they want to hear the other side. We hope a church may yet be raised up here. SMITH SHARP. Eureka, Kansas, March 6, 1876.