WITH all the boasted triumphs of our so-called science, even the wisest among us know comparatively nothing. Newton compared himself to a child picking up pebbles along the sea-shore, and Humboldt confessed that the further we advance, the more clearly we discover how circumscribed is all our knowledge. Of the nearest stars, their size, distance and motion are known, but that is about all. It still remains a mooted question whether the sun is a compact or a vaporous body, whether cold or in a glowing heat. Only recently, the spectrum analysis has ascertained the earthly substances which are represented in the sun, but none can tell how it came about. Of our nearest associate and most faithful companion, the moon, very little is known. For thousands of years she has been observed with the naked eye, and since the discovery of the telescope, we have incessantly examined her. Our whole scientific apparatus has been called into requisition to discover her secrets. But thus far she has revealed nothing. We are not even yet assured whether she has an atmosphere, whether the spots on her disc are mountains or valleys, whether she has a vegetation or an organic life. There exist many theories, but none have been hardened into facts. Science is as little capable of explaining the phenomena of our globe as those which surround it. The nature of the meteors, which incessantly traverse our atmosphere, and partly dissolve in it, cannot be accurately ascertained. Are they telluric and cosmic in their origin? We may assume, but cannot positively affirm which. Year after year the skies present the same magnificent phenomena of the northern lights. The spectacle is admired by laymen and studied by scientists. How does it originate? What forms the fiery clouds, pillars and waves? Even the most learned are unable to answer this question with certainty. The same is true in relation to earthquakes, which have so intimate a connection with the formation of the crust, the division of land and water, which raise mountains, fill up valleys, make abysses, and destroy cities. Man confronts the forces of nature in perfect helplessness. Where is their seat? In the interior of the earth? or near the crust? Is the centre of our planet a fiery mass, which breaks through here and there? Do the fires originate by some means only a few miles under our feet? Are they the result of a conditional development, or of a gradual decomposition of the place which we inhabit? None know. Hypotheses conflict, but not one of them is capable of proof. The series of shocks which we have lately experienced has seriously lessened our sense of security and confidence in “terra firma.” In various parts of Europe the soil heaves under foot. Antioch, the great, beautiful and powerful of ancient days, has sunk in consequence of earthquakes, which have visited her for centuries, to the condition of a trading post. Centuries passed between the visitations, but their memory could not be obliterated, the tradition could not die. Instead of the 250,000 inhabitants destroyed on a former occasion, the demon of destruction contented itself this time with 1,500, but only because there were no more victims. Simultaneously with Syria, the southern part of California was the scene of a series of violent shocks which have desolated whole regions.
There is no visitation more awful and fatal than an earthquake. All other chastisements of Providence, such as war, pestilence, famine and drought, may be borne in comparison with this. Like a flash of lightning from a clear sky, it surprises its victims. No definite premonitory symptoms indicate its dread approach. No human foresight or care can avert the deadly danger. Whenever it comes, whether in broad daylight or in the silent darkness of the night, there is no safety, no escape. Those who manage to escape from the falling roof and tottering walls of the building only run the risk of the gulfs opening in every direction before their terror-stricken eyes. When the earth heaves and yawns, man fully realizes his impotence. He can do nothing but turn his eye heavenward, and quietly submit to his fate.
Hardly had the earth ceased to sway and tremble on the Pacific when we hear from Italy that Vesuvius is belching forth pillars of fire and cataracts of lava. Who can say what next the mysterious subterranean powers may not have in store for us? Shocks and volcanic eruptions may occur at any moment where they have never been seen before, and the largest and most populous cities may be blotted out. Science is utterly helpless in view of these perils. Since ages, the wisest minds have studied our planet and the universe beyond, but the knowledge of the wisest, who have inherited the intellectual treasures of past generations, is like a drop in the ocean. They feel all like Newton and Humboldt, that there are bounds beyond which no mortal eye can ever hope to pass.—Inter-Ocean.
The Word of God.
By A. S. Hutchins
How important that we study the word of God. It is not enough to hastily read its sacred pages, or carelessly hurry through it. We should prayerfully study it, labor to learn its requirements of us, and ponder well in our hearts its elevating and sanctifying truths. It should be our aim on reading the Holy Bible to be made the wiser and better each time we read it, and to manifest in our lives a growth in the knowledge of the truth.
By often applying to our hearts the principles of the word of God, our communion with him is greatly increased, our love of heavenly things is strengthened, our affections detached more and more from the world, and our influence for good greatly enlarged. Sin appears more and more heinous, and righteousness more and more to be desired.
Says David, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Ps. 119:11. How much sin we may avoid, and how many mistakes escape, by having our minds well disciplined from the word of God.
How often we meet with the youth who have but little or no mental discipline. Their reading matter is light, frothy, and poisonous. For the study of the word of God, or reading calculated to balance and educate the mind for future usefulness, or happiness, they have no relish. Their steps take hold on death. In merriment, frivolity, and sinful indulgences, they press on to the judgment of the great day. Oh! how the precious moments of short life are squandered and lost, forever lost.
But such may cleanse their ways. They may come into favor with God and redeem the time. Unspeakably blessed thought! “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.” Ps. 119:9. Oh! that we may seek God with the “whole heart,” and our future steps, our words, and life, be according to his word. “Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.”
A. S. HUTCHINS.
Drawing Nigh to God.
The divine instruction, “Draw nigh to God,” seems very simple, yet it is wonderful. Shall we draw nigh to the Infinite? Shall we approach the throne of Omnipotence? Shall polluted sinners come into the presence of spotless purity? What wonderful condescension is manifest in the command, “Draw nigh to God.” It is too wonderful for us to comprehend; and still it but opens to the soul the supply of its greatest need. It needs instruction, life, purification, communion,—all of which can only be found by coming to God for them. Can the soul bear exposure to the all-searching eye? Can it bear the divine illumination which will show its own appalling character? If shielded by divine forgiveness, can it at last render due gratitude to a sin-pardoning God? Shall not its incompleteness provoke the wrath of him that sitteth upon the throne? Remembering that our completeness is in him who hath redeemed us with his own blood, we may rest secure in him. Hence our approach to God may be in peace and with the most absolute confidence.
There is abundant reason why we should draw nigh to God. We need to be instructed, purified, quickened, and strengthened. All these are found in God through Christ. We need peace and communion to allay our soul’s fear and satisfy the cravings of intelligences formed for holy companionship and immortal existence. We find these, through Christ, in our Father’s presence. In him we find beauty, love, usefulness, happiness, and elevation in the scale of existence. This drawing nigh to God, though averse to the fallen nature of man, accords entirely with his primitive condition; hence he who is stirred by the Spirit banished by the fall, is deeply moved with longing to approach the author of that Spirit,—and well he might be, for there is peace, and true wealth, and salvation in no other. All are lost that stay away from God.
How happy is the condition of him who draws nigh to God and there abides continually. Notice that there is no command to his children to depart from him. There they may abide—there rejoice. What sunshine does his presence afford! What a glorious hope in the light of his countenance! What strength is imparted by his vitality! What consuming of sin, what purifying in his presence! In the sunshine of his grace, irrigated by the streams of life, how does every virtue flourish, and every heavenly fruit grow and ripen. What comfort, what happiness, what security, is afforded! What triumph over sin, what victory over death, and what a glorious hope of immortality cheers him who thus draws nigh to God! Useful in life, victorious in death, he shall at last be richly endowed with eternal life in God’s presence, where there is fullness of joy, and at his right hand, where there are pleasures for evermore.—Religious Telescope.
Michigan.
By Philip Strong
Following my last report, dated from Six Mile Creek, I held a short series of meetings in the Smith district, two miles north of Chesaning. There were about twenty-five out each evening, but dark nights and muddy roads caused me to break up the meetings. As a result of the two meetings, five have been baptized, and united with the Chesaning church. Others are interested.
April 6 and 7, attended Bro. Root's tract meeting in Orleans. These were meetings of interest to the cause with us, and I trust has given the cause a new impetus that will bring forth good fruits.
Sabbath, 13th, spoke in Orleans, and the 20th and 21st, in Bushnell.
From 25th to 30th, spent my time in Mecosta Co. Preached seven times, held two covenant meetings, re-organized S. B., which was raised from $29.64 to $51.46. By request of Bro. King, I organized a tract society of twelve members, and united them to his district; baptized one.
I here met with Bro. Sterling, who had been laboring here, and at Clearview; and by his request I held two meetings there. There was not much interest to hear, but a few near there are trying to obey, and I trust will soon see it duty to unite their interest with ours.
The 31st, Bro. Collard brought us to Howard City, where I soon after left Bro. Sterling, to return home sick; and I went on to Oceana County and remained with them till May 5. Held six meetings. Found the brethren here all holding on and trying to overcome, and I trust that all see the importance of advancing with God's people, that victory may be theirs. Re-organized their S. B. and left them united in the love of the truth.
May 7, met with the church in Leighton. Preached to them twice. Held two covenant meetings, and one business meeting, in which they re-arranged their S. B. for the coming year. Union prevailed among those present, and a good spirit was manifest.
Sabbath, the 11th, spent with the friends in Bushnell. From the 12th to the 22d, at home unwell.
Sabbath, the 25th, with the friends at Six Mile Creek, and first-day had a meeting at Chesaning. Three were baptized, and united with the church. In the evening, heard Eld. Sabins preach against the Sabbath; but his arguments were so loose and weak when he came to his change, and he expressed so many doubts concerning his position that it was not thought worth while to review them.
That the reader may see how crooked the lame can walk, I will give his loss-of-time argument. It was new to me, and may be to others.
“For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.” Isa. 65:17. “This is predicted of our dispensation, and it says that the former shall not come into mind. The Jew reckons and dates his letters from B. C., I don't know where. They keep the seventh day to commemorate the old creation: whilst we Christians are commanded to celebrate the new creation. Therefore we date our letters A. D. and keep the first of the week, the beginning of the new creation; a complete change, old things passed away. I may be wrong in my interpretation of the word, if so, then the whole Protestant and Catholic world are keeping the wrong day. If I am wrong I want to see the light.
“. . . I don't know but you have had a hard time hearing me this evening; I am sure it has been very hard work for me to speak to you. . . .
“I don't want any questions asked, or controversy on the subject.”
It was a very cool evening, but if sweating, and losing his place (for he had one of Peter's wives sermons before him), could be taken as evidence that it was hard work to fight against the truth, then he certainly proved it.
The 27th and 28th, I spent with the friends in Duplain and Greenbush, visiting from house to house, and holding two meetings. They need help! I think that if the committee would give them an appointment for S. H. King, Francis Nelson, and Hiram Guilford, or some others of our brethren who are farmers or mechanics, to visit them soon, it would be for the best.
Arrived home just in time to attend sister Albin's funeral, at Bushnell. Sister A. has been a great sufferer, but she bore it with patience, and expressed a strong faith in all the promises of God.
Friday, the 31st, went to Vergennes to attend our quarterly meeting. Brethren were present from Greenville, Bushnell, Orange, Orleans, and Wright. Our meetings were of deep interest to the churches. The Lord met us by his Spirit, and we were refreshed. First-day, the house was crowded with attentive listeners from without. I trust that an interest may yet spring up here, that will demand a series of meetings.
Sunday, went to Bushnell to meet my 2 P. M. appointment. Found that a Disciple minister had given out to preach against the Sabbath at three, and the brethren had placed my appointment in the evening.
His position was that Paul commanded to cast out the bondwoman, the ten commandments. And that Christ abolished the ten commandments at the cross. I reviewed him before a crowded house in the evening.
At the close of my remarks, the elder asked the privilege of speaking, and said, If the position taken by the speaker is correct, he has made me out to be a very bad man; and that I may know what to do, I wish to ask him if he will affirm from the New Testament that we are commanded to keep the seventh day as Moses commanded. If so, we will have a two days' discussion and settle this matter.
Strong. I will affirm that the Bible teaches that the seventh day is binding on us as taught in the fourth commandment, if Eld. Mavity will affirm the assertion that he made, that we are commanded to get together on the first day of the week.
Mavity. I did not say that. But I will affirm that it is right to get together on the first day of the week, and we will debate this one evening.
S. You might affirm that it is right to meet together on every day, but that don't make Sabbaths of them. That is not what I want. Will you affirm that the Bible commands us, by practice and precept, to assemble on the first day of the week?
M. I will affirm that, according to my example, it is right to meet together on the first day of the week; yes, I will affirm that.
S. This people do not want to know what your example is. Our Pedo-baptist friends will affirm that sprinkling is baptism, and prove it by their example. That is not the proof we want. We want a, Thus saith the Lord. Will you affirm that the apostolic church taught and practiced keeping the first day of the week?
M. I see that my friend is rather particular in wording the question.
S. I am willing to affirm my question on the Bible. Why can't you affirm what you teach from the same? You have just given out an appointment for Lord's day. Why not come right up to your teachings? If Sunday is the Lord's day, please prove it from the Bible.
M. I see that my friend is rather particular. Therefore I will affirm that it is the duty of Christians to come together upon the first day of the week, both by practice and precept of the word.
S. Thank you; now, for the time. I will not touch these questions unless we can have time. You speak of one evening for your question, and two for mine. Let us have four for each, and give the people a chance to hear all your proof.
M. I don't see why my friend asks for so much time. I can say all I have got to say in one evening, and don't want any more.
After some further debate over the questions and time, he finally agreed to spend four evenings on each question, the debate to come off in October. The people in Bushnell are much interested in this question, and are very friendly to our people, and wish to hear more.
Returned home Monday, and found Bro. Milk waiting me; and Tuesday we started together for Grand Traverse, where we now are. The way appears to be opening for labor. We have been here but one week, but have already held nine meetings, with congregations that manifest much interest. It will be rather a hard field to labor in, and will take a great deal of foot traveling. Our first tramp was from Clam Lake to Traverse, a distance of sixty miles; rather too much for pleasure, considering that we had to carry a load. But if the field opens for the truth, we shall feel richly repaid.
If Bro. Weeks has come to these parts to labor, as he expected, will he give me his address, or will some one that can, through the REVIEW? Our address for the present will be Elk Rapids, Antrim Co., Mich. PHILIP STRONG.
Grand Traverse Co., Mich.
Michigan and Indiana.
By E. B. Lane
My last report was given while laboring in Potterville, Mich.
But few places ever present a deeper and more lasting interest than this one. Although considerable preaching had been given there from time to time, still the public mind was unsatisfied, and from the beginning the interest arose. Speaking indefinitely, there were more than one hundred discourses, also a public debate of five evenings was held, yet the people manifested a good interest, to the close.
On the part of our brethren and myself, I would acknowledge the timely and efficient aid of Bro. and Sr. White, who, on several occasions, came and addressed the people, much to the interest of the meetings. Our house of worship, though quite a large one, was insufficient to accommodate all. Movable seats were supplied, still, on Sunday nights, many were deprived of hearing on account of not being able to get an admittance, every available foot of room being occupied.
I am satisfied that the majority of those who attended were convinced of the truthfulness of the positions we hold on Bible truths. But, alas! this is an age in which men will be satisfied with convictions alone, and risk the consequences of disobedience. About thirty-five took hold of the Sabbath, and seemed greatly rejoiced that God had given them hearts to obey.
We had labored there but a few weeks before opposition arose. The resident minister of the United Brethren church preached against our views on the condition of the dead and Sabbath question. We reviewed him each time, after which, one of their leading men, Eld. Barnaby, was sent for, and a discussion was the result.
This discussion was reported by Bro. Smith, and is in print. So it is unnecessary to give a synopsis of the arguments and replies, as all can procure it who wish, by sending to the REVIEW AND HERALD Office. The Sabbath question, however, was all that was reported. We discussed two questions, the Sabbath and condition of the dead.
After spending a few days at home, making some preparations for a summer's campaign, I designed starting out with the Michigan tent, but in compliance with an urgent request to return to Indiana, I concluded to spend a portion of the season in that State. We pitched the tent there, and met with the misfortune, as reported by Bro. Waggoner last week. For the good of the cause there we deeply regret that they should lose the use of the present tent season.
Those with whom we conversed seemed to greatly feel this loss, and offered to donate freely could such a calamity be avoided. I hope at the next camp-meeting something may be done for next season.
We visited as many of the scattered brethren as we could, and found them of good courage, exerting a gathering influence, quite a number having embraced the truth since we were last among them. My prayer is that God will bless his cause and people in Indiana as well as Michigan, and with all the Israel of God save them in his kingdom. I commence laboring with the Michigan tent this week. E. B. LANE.
June 19, 1872.
The Furnace Reveals Our Dross
It is not until we have passed through the furnace that we are made to know how much dross was in our composition.
Report of the Illinois Conference.
By R. F. Andrews; B. F. Merritt
The second annual session of this Conference was held near Aledo, Ill., May 31—June 3, 1872, in connection with the Illinois Camp-meetings, as appointed in REVIEW.
Conference convened in the new Illinois tent, May 31, at 5 P. M., Eld. R. F. Andrews in the chair. Prayer by Bro. W. H. Littlejohn.
Present, Elds. R. F. Andrews and T. M. Steward, of this Conference. Credentials of delegates were called for, presented, and examined. A delegation of ten, representing eight churches, came forward. In a subsequent session, two other churches were represented. Throughout the meeting, two were not represented.
The church situated in Clark Center, Ill., petitioned to be admitted into this Conference. Their request was granted, and delegate accepted.
Voted, That Elds. White and Littlejohn, of the Michigan Conference, with all the brethren present, in good standing with their respective churches, be invited to participate with us in the discussion of business.
Minutes of last session were called for, read, and accepted.
Voted, That the Chair appoint an Auditing Committee of six, to settle with the ministers.
President appointed Brn. T. Brown, W. Penniman, B. Berry, J. H. Bates, T. Greer, and B. Sweat.
Voted, That the Conference elect three brethren to act as a Nominating Committee. B. F. Merritt, Thos. Brown, and Benj. Berry, were duly elected.
Voted, That the Conference elect three brethren to act as a Committee on Resolutions. W. H. Littlejohn, T. M. Steward, and B. F. Merritt, were chosen as said committee.
Voted, To renew the credentials of Elds. R. F. Andrews and T. M. Steward.
Voted, To renew the licenses of Brn. G. W. Colcord, C. H. Bliss, and B. F. Merritt, and to refer the case of Bro. John Ballenger to the State Conference Committee.
Voted, To change the name of the Northville church, to that of Serena.
Adjourned to the call of the chair.
SECOND SESSION.
June 2, 8 A. M. Prayer by Bro. W. H. Littlejohn.
The Treasurer's report was called for, read, and received.
Voted, To grant licenses to Brn. J. W. Marsh, J. R. Whitham, J. Hiestand, and R. T. Gregory, to improve their gift in publicly teaching the people the present truth. Adjourned to the call of the President.
THIRD SESSION.
June 3, 8 A. M. Prayer by Bro. B. F. Merritt. The report of Nominating Committee called for, read, and accepted. Vote resulted in the election of nominees as follows:
For President, R. F. Andrews, New Genesee, Whiteside Co., Ill.; Secretary, B. F. Merritt, Princeville, Peoria Co., Ill.; Treasurer, I. Colcord, Coletta, Whiteside Co., Ill.; Executive Committee, Eld. R. F. Andrews, J. R. Whitham, Aledo, Mercer Co., Ill., Seth Newton, Freeport, Stephenson Co., Ill.
Voted, That the President appoint two brethren, to act in conjunction with the Conference Committee as a Camp-meeting Committee.
Voted, That Bro. G. W. Colcord receive ordination.
Adjourned to the call of the Chair.
FOURTH SESSION.
June 3, 6 P. M. Prayer by Bro. T. M. Steward.
Church reports showed a membership of 285, fellowshipped in 13 churches. Whole amount of S. B., $1653.86.
In view of the want of funds in the Conference Treasury, it was
Voted, That we recommend to the churches to donate the whole of their Systematic Benevolence to the Conference.
Committee on Resolutions reported, presenting the following, which were unanimously adopted:
Whereas, We have been calling upon God to raise up laborers to go forth into the harvest field; and,
Whereas, The Conference has found it impossible to fully settle with its ministers for the services they have rendered the past year, because of a lack of funds in the treasury, therefore, Resolved, That we earnestly exhort our brethren and sisters in this State to examine carefully and prayerfully into the course they have23hitherto pursued in regard to Systematic Benevolence, in order that they may decide whether their S. B. figures, as heretofore given, should not be raised, and whether they have been as prompt in the payment of their pledges as they should have been.
Whereas, The Lord has in his providence been calling the attention of this people to the advantages of systematic effort in the distribution of tracts; and,
Whereas, The societies which have been organized for this purpose in different parts of the country have proved themselves to be in the highest degree useful; therefore, Resolved, That we invite all our brethren and sisters to co-operate heartily with us in the formation of such societies in the various districts of the Conference, as designated in the report of this meeting.
Resolved, That we hereby express our gratitude to God for the efficient aid furnished us by the General Conference in sending Bro. and sister White and Bro. Littlejohn to labor for us in our camp-meeting.
Resolved, That we hereby express our thanks to the brethren of Aledo for the help they have rendered us in preparing the ground for our camp-meeting, and the kind hospitality they have shown in caring for the wants of the friends.
Resolved, That we tender a vote of thanks to Mr. Reed for the use of the grounds, and his help in other ways during our meeting.
Resolved, That the doings of this Conference be published in the REVIEW.
Adjourned to the call of the Executive Committee. R. F. ANDREWS, Pres.
B. F. MERRITT, Sec'y.
Something for Thee.
Something, my God, for thee,
Something for thee,
That each day's setting sun may bring
Some penitential offering;
In thy dear name, some kindness done;
To thy dear love, some wanderer won—
Some trial meekly borne, for thee,
Dear Lord, for thee.
Something, my God, for thee,
Something for thee;
That to thy gracious throne may rise
Sweet incense from some sacrifice—
Uplifted eyes undimmed by tears;
Uplifted faith unstained by fears,
Hailing each joy as light from thee,
Dear Lord, from thee.
Something, my God for thee,
Something for thee.
For the great love that thou hast given,
For the deep hope of thee and heaven,
My soul her first allegiance brings,
And upward plumes her heavenward wings
Almont, Mich.
By D. H. Lamson
OUR tent-meeting is progressing favorably. Interest growing constantly to the present. About four hundred were out last evening listening with rapt attention. All are quiet and respectful. Some of the ladies show their good will by providing for our stand bouquets of the most beautiful flowers. Should judge but a small proportion of the people of the place are professors. We are having invitations out, and our temporal wants are now being provided for. We trust that this meeting may be carried on to the glory of God and the best good of the cause. We hear that last evening there were but five at the Methodist church, and the minister told them that if they didn't quit going to hear that bowling in the tent he would preach to them no longer.
D. H. LAMSON.
Iowa.
By S. Osborn; J. H. Morrison; R. M. Kilgore
THURSDAY, June twenty, we pitched the tent in Homer, Hamilton Co., Iowa. Began meetings on Friday evening, with an audience of about two hundred. Have given five discourses to attentive hearers, and increasing numbers.
This is a small village in the south-west part of the county, ten miles from Webster city, the county seat. The country around is tolerably well settled. The people are kind, courteous, and hospitable. We hope for good results. Our prayer is, that the Lord will work for us and the good of the people.
Our address will now be Homer, Hamilton Co., Iowa.
S. OSBORN,
J. H. MORRISON,
R. M. KILGORE.
High Forest, Minn.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
Last night, June 16, I closed my meetings in this place, after a stay of about four weeks. On account of continued cold and rain we could have no meetings in the tent, and hence took it down, and continued our meetings to the close in the Baptist church which was very kindly granted us without cost. The attendance was good, even large, while the weather was good; but the last two weeks it was very bad, and dark nights, so the attendance was small. Yet the Lord has turned some hearts to his truth, for which we are thankful.
Sixteen came out on the Sabbath; and I obtained eleven subscribers for the REVIEW, one for the Reformer, and one for the Instructor, and also sold $17 worth of books. Money is very scarce in Minnesota and many are much in debt. There were about thirty-five Sabbath-keepers near here before; so last Sabbath we had over fifty out who will make this their regular place of meeting on the Sabbath in the future. There are a number more for whom we hope if the interest can be followed up, which we hope to do.
We may pitch the tent within a few miles of here, though the opening is not as good as we could wish. Bro. Chas. Russell is with me, and we are looking for favorable openings. Are now on our way to camp-meeting.
Wasioja, Minn. D. M. CANRIGHT.
The California Tent-Meeting.
A COPY of the Yolo Democrat, dated June 15, 1872, published at Woodland, Cal., contains the following notices of the tent-meeting by Brn. Loughborough and Cornell now in progress in that place. The people call upon those who have so long been teaching them error, to support their positions, by good reasons, if it can be done.
“THE TENT-MEETINGS.—The lectures at the tent continue to attract and interest our people every evening. As the speakers progress in their course they meet with opposition, particularly from other ministers of the same gospel they all profess to believe and teach; but, so far, none have gainsayed the positions taken, or responded to the invitations given to meet them in open, public discussion of the questions involved. A correspondent, whose communication appears in another column, calls upon the local ministry here to reply to Elders Cornell and Loughborough, before the same audiences, that they are misleading the minds of the people by preaching errors. And if, as our correspondent says, ministers have stated that it can be clearly shown from the Bible that the tent-men are wrong in their positions and doctrines, it seems to us to be due the public that the other side of the question should be given. It would be a matter of interest to all concerned—and as an outsider, in the words of all preachers, we would ask, ‘Are not all concerned?’”
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH
By John Norton Loughborough
California.
Our meeting is still in progress here, with good interest, and large attendance. Last Sunday evening about one thousand persons were in and around the tent. An extra train was run from Knight’s landing, ten miles above, to accommodate those of that town desirous of attending the meeting. The following, from one of the weekly county papers of this place, will give some idea of how the candid portion of the community regard our meetings:—
“INTEREST MAINTAINED.—It is very evident that Elder’s Loughborough and Cornell have awakened a lively interest in the minds of many persons in this community by the manner in which they, night after night, with unflagging zeal, expound the teachings of the Bible. Our people receive, in these discourses, much valuable information. Many Scripture passages are presented and explained in an entirely different manner to that practised by most ministers of the day; and whether agreeable to the latter or not, the fact is undeniable that the large audiences attending these tent-meetings consider the speakers men of more than ordinary ability, as they certainly are more candid, more zealous, and at the same time more consistent, than those who are termed the popular preachers of the day. Voluntary contributions have been offered sufficient to cover expenses. The meetings will be continued Sunday morning at 11 o’clock, and every evening till further notice.”
The people requested the privilege of taking up two collections, and raised toward our expenses $92.65.
The Sabbath question has been quite thoroughly canvassed, and several have already decided to keep the Sabbath. We have our first Sabbath meeting next Sabbath. The meetings here have awakened quite a stir in the surrounding country. Books go quite freely, and are scattered for miles around by those who have attended and desire to know more of these things.
Bro. Kellogg has held several meetings at Cacheville, six miles distant, which have been well attended. Although the hurry of harvest is coming on, we will try to follow up the interest as well as we can. Pray for us.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH
Woodland, June.
A REPLY SOLICITED.
Woodland, June 14, 1872.
“EDITOR DEMOCRAT:—The tent-meetings in this place have awakened a very great interest in the minds of the people, and from what I hear daily I think very many of our fellow-citizens are convinced that the speakers in the tent are teaching the truth, especially on the subject of the Sabbath. Yet, on attending our regular Thursday evening prayer-meeting, I learned that a few of our Methodist and Christian brethren, including the ministers of both those churches, claim that the doctrines advocated in the tent are ‘gross errors,’ and the ministers stated in my hearing that they could very easily and plainly show this by the Bible. Now, if they can do this, I, in behalf of many citizens, request them to do it before the same audience that heard the ‘errors’ in the tent; for if it is error, the sooner it is exposed the better.”
“If the men in the tent are right on the Sabbath question, then we who keep Sunday are wrong. For one I am very anxious to learn just the truth in this matter.
“Elders Cornell and Loughborough appear like candid men. They have repeatedly and publicly offered to give the use of their tent to any minister who thought he could point out errors in the things they teach, and I think our ministers ought to accept their offer and show the other side of the Sabbath question in the tent; for if Sunday be the Sabbath of the Bible, then let them come to the rescue.
“ONE OF MANY WHO WISH
“TO HEAR BOTH SIDES.”
Vermont.
By Daniel T. Bourdeau
SABBATH, June 1, I met with the church of Enosburgh, and spoke on the importance of not coming down from the exalted work of God. Text: “And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down unto you.” Neh. 6: 3.
Sabbath and Sunday, the 8th and 9th, held meetings at Bro. Colby’s, Charleston, Vt. Brn. Hutchins and Bean were with us. We dwelt on the value of the soul as compared with riches, etc. Text: Ps. 49: 6–9. One soul saved in the kingdom of God is worth ten thousand worlds like ours: yet how liable men are to barter away their souls for a little of this world. Though we cannot, with our wealth, etc., redeem our brother, or give to God a ransom for him, yet we can with the means God has given us either help or hinder in the work of saving souls. What a sad mistake those will have made, who shall be found with the blood of souls in their garments for having withheld from the cause the means which might and should have been used for the salvation of men.
Life is in the blood; and those in whose garments will be found the blood of souls shall be guilty of murder in the highest degree.
We found good openings for the tent in the eastern part of the State; but the brethren and sisters in that section must not be discouraged if we do not make an effort there at present.
Last Sabbath, we had a good time with the Sabbath-keepers in Starksborough, where we labored just before going to Kentucky.
Sunday, we spoke at West Bolton, where there is still an interest to hear. The following preambles and resolutions were unanimously adopted:
Whereas, The cause in Bolton, Jericho, and Huntington, is young, and there is a good interest started in these places, and,
Whereas, A camp-meeting held in this section would be productive of much good, and would be easy of access; therefore,
Resolved, That we invite the camp-meeting committee to locate the forth-coming camp-meeting at Richmond, the same as last year.
Whereas, We were disappointed in not seeing Bro. and sister White at our last camp-meeting, and whereas sister White’s brief call in West Bolton last winter was highly appreciated, and created a greater anxiety to see and hear Bro. and sister White, therefore,
Resolved, That we hereby extend a hearty invitation to Bro. and sister White to attend our next camp-meeting, promising to do all in our power to make them comfortable.
D. T. BOURDEAU.
Bordoville, Vt., June 18, 1872.
A Letter from Bayfield, Ontario
A letter just received from Bayfield, Ontario, says:—
I have seen several of your papers, the REVIEW, and also several of the books published in your Office; and I must say that the Bible, since, is a new book to me. As soon as I shall have means I shall send for some of your books; for I believe there is more of Bible truth published in your Office than in any other. In the meantime will you be kind enough to send me the REVIEW weekly. I love the truths set forth in your books and paper.
An Exhortation.
By M. L. O’REILLY
THE day of redemption is near. Despondent one, look up, and be encouraged. Be patient. The light is shining brightly o’er our pathway, and soon those that love the appearing of the Saviour will behold him in all his glory, to their great joy. Poor sinner, Jesus is pleading for you. The call of mercy still lingers. Come, “now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.”
“Though the sky is dark above us
And the waves are dashing high,
Let us struggle toward the beacon,
We shall reach it by-and-by.
’Tis the light of God’s great mercy,
And he holds it up in view,
As a polestar to his children,
As a guide to me and you.
“Oh, the light is flashing brightly
From the calm and stormless shore,
Where we hope to cast our anchor
When our voyaging is o’er.”