Earlier text: Success in LifeStrictures on the “Sufferings of Christ.”
By Joseph Harvey Waggoner
“The Christian Record, a local organ of the Campbellite system published in Bedford, Ind., makes some very positive comments on the little tract published at the REVIEW office, entitled “Sufferings of Christ,” written by Sr. White. As the current teachings of Campbellism are based on antinomianism, or no-law-ism, of course the editor of the Record must object to the following paragraph which he quotes: “Christ consented to die in man’s stead, that he, by a life of obedience, might escape the penalty of the law of God. His death did not slay the law, lessen its holy claims, nor detract from its sacred dignity. The death of Christ proclaimed the justice of his Father’s law in punishing the transgressor, in that he consented to suffer the penalty of the law himself, in order to save fallen man from its curse.” It is utterly impossible to take any other view of the facts of Scripture, and of Paul’s declaration in Rom. 3:25, 26, of the vindication of God’s justice in the death of Christ, than that taken above; unless, indeed, justice be entirely ignored, as it is in all antinomian teachings. Every principle of government confirms this view; all the types demand it. “The wages of sin is death.” This is and always was, a fact. See Gen. 2:17. When a person had sinned, he was to bring his offering and confess his sins on its head. This signified a transfer of sin to the sacrifice. That this was so, and that it typified the same fact in the gospel is proved by Isa. 53:6: “And the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” And by Lev. 1:4: “And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him.” And many other passages of like import. The wages of sin being death, the life of the sinner is forfeited to the broken law; but the sin being laid upon the sacrifice, its life was taken as a substitute. On no other consideration could it be accepted; on no other consideration could God be just and yet justify the sinner; for justice demands that the claims of the law be satisfied. And if this is not vicarious death, we would like to know what vicarious means. Let us now hear the comment of the editor of the Record: “Now this is old ‘blue stocking Calvinism’ newly varnished up. But its absurdity is seen on its very face. If Christ suffered in the room and stead of the sinner, and satisfied all the claims of divine justice, then is the sinner free. Justice can have no further claims against him. Then Universalism is established. And again, if Jesus took the ‘rebel’s place and suffered in his stead,’ then there is no such thing as forgiveness, for the simple reason that a debt that is paid is not forgiven.” In an advertisement in the Record, its editor, the writer of the foregoing remarks, is represented as the “Professor of Biblical Literature,” in a little college in Bedford. We may judge of the erudition and depth of Biblical knowledge of this “Professor,” by this fact that he makes no distinction between debt and crime. He would settle moral questions on a money basis! Now a greater than the editor of the Record has considered this point, and made a more consistent decision. Alexander Campbell, in the “Christian System,” remarks: “The redemption, then, which is in Christ Jesus, is a moral, and not a commercial consideration. If sin were only debt and not a crime, it might be forgiven without atonement. . . Some there are, however, who, from inattention to the sacred style and the meaning of Biblical terms, have actually represented the death of Christ, rather as the payment of an immense debt than as an expiation of sin, or a purification from guilt; and have thus made the pardon of sin wholly unintelligible, or rather, indeed, impossible. Every one feels that when a third person assumes a debt and pays it, the principal must be discharged and cannot be forgiven. But when sin is viewed in the light of crime, and atonement offered by a third person, then it is a question of grace whether the pardon or acquittal of the sinner shall be granted by him against whom the crime is committed; because, even after an atonement or propitiation is made, the transgressor is yet as deserving of punishment as before. There is room, then, for both justice and mercy; for the display of indignation against sin and the forgiveness of the sinner.” But how could God show his “indignation against sin” in the death of his Son, if that Son did not stand in the sinner’s stead? Or, how could God be just in setting forth Jesus as our sacrifice, if his death did not meet the demand of justice? Will Eld. Mathes of the Record show? That he is obnoxious to the strictures of Mr. Campbell, is shown in his expression: “If Christ suffered in the room and stead of the sinner, and satisfied all the claims of divine justice, then is the sinner free,” and “a debt that is paid is not forgiven.” Thus he argues that if it was a satisfaction to justice, then it was the payment of a debt. It makes not a particle of difference whether he satisfied “all the claims of divine justice,” or only a part, so far as the principle is concerned. But the claims of divine justice were satisfied by Christ, or they were not. If not, then they remain to be satisfied by man in his own behalf; or, otherwise, they will never be satisfied. Which position does this “Professor of Biblical Literature” take on the question? If Christ did not satisfy divine justice, why did he die at all? If man satisfies divine justice for himself, how can he have a Saviour, or what need have we of a Saviour? Evidently, man cannot satisfy divine justice and yet be saved. Hence his need of an atonement. But if neither Christ nor man satisfies divine justice, then it certainly is never satisfied. How, then, can God be just in justifying the believer? Will “Professor” Mathes tell us? Paul says God is just in justifying the believer in Jesus, showing that justice was satisfied by his sacrifice; not the payment of a debt, but the expiation of crime, so that it may be just to justify all, who, through him, are so reconciled to God that they henceforth do not serve sin; Rom. 5:1; 6:6; whose souls are purified in obeying the truth. 1 Pet. 1:22. The difficulty of this “Professor” arises from his “inattention to the sacred style, and the meaning of biblical terms,” as Mr. Campbell well says of such errorists as he. Nor is there any Calvinism in this. That assertion grows out of his blindness in regard to moral principles, not discovering the difference between debt and crimes, and his ignorance as to what the atonement is. We make no guess about this; and may make further remarks upon this point, if he ever tries to reconcile his theory with facts above referred to, or to screen himself from the odium cast upon his present position by the founder of his sect, Alexander Campbell. Mr. Campbell taught some errors, but he was too well versed in the principles of justice, as laid down by the Scriptures, to run into such heresy as Mr. Mathes advocates on this subject. We think the tract entitled “Sufferings of Christ” is very Scriptural and just in its teachings; and shall think none the less of it that it is opposed by those who advocate systems subversive of every just principle upon which the gospel is based. J. H. WAGGONER. The Prospect.
By Roswell F. Cottrell
Time has hastened on, and we are brought to 1872. We yet have a High Priest in the sanctuary; and we have yet a work to do. The Lord yet waits for the salvation of men; and is not slack concerning his promises. His work is moving onward; it does not stop. The salvation of his people is nearer and nearer; and very soon it will come. Blessed will they be who have endured, and have done the work given them to do. Brethren, we have no cause of discouragement. Only believe in God and press on in the way of duty, and God will perform. Let us consecrate ourselves anew to the work, seeking his aid and guidance. The work is of God and not of men; therefore it is extremely unpopular, as truth and godliness ever have been during the history of the past. But though Satan and his hosts are all arrayed against our work, yet it is evident that the prospering hand of the Lord has brought the work to its present prosperous condition. Truly God has wrought. This should give us unwavering confidence in the work. The work, though great, will certainly be accomplished. If we turn back, it will be to our loss. Who would now draw back unto perdition? How much better to believe to the salvation of the soul! Are we progressing, brethren? Are we getting our hearts more set upon the heavenly treasure? Are we alive in the Lord? Or have we got weary? and are we turning back? We are working out the answer to these questions. We are nearing the saints’ home, or we are nearing perdition. How little have we done, and how much remains to be done! How little have I done in the past. Oh! that I might accomplish more for time to come. I do desire to redeem the time. I want to see the path of duty, and walk in it. Oh! that I might do the work God has given me to do. There certainly is abundance of work. Let me find my work. I think the language of my heart is, Here am I; send me. I rejoice for the indications that God has not forgotten us. Upon those who are ready, the Spirit is about to be poured out. Many are watching our work to learn whether God is with us of a truth. Those who have humility enough to acknowledge it when they see it, will be gathered in. While our boast is only in the Lord, “the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.” My sheep hear my voice, says the good Shepherd. Those who do not hear and heed the call are not of his sheep. Let us come up to the work. Let us heed the call. Let us heartily embrace and live out the truth that we have. Let us walk in the light, and more light shall be given. Let us engage anew in the work of reform, and see to it that we do not reform backward. Oh! the glory that will soon open to the view of the faithful! but how sad the disappointment of the unfaithful! What a contrast! We shall, as individuals, be found in one class or the other. Which shall it be? We shall each decide this question for ourselves. May God help the humble to seek humility, and the meek to seek meekness. We may, if we will be in earnest, be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger. Blessed be God that eternal life is before us, as an object of hope, and that we may lay hold upon it! Here is my heart and hand to labor to enter with you into the rest. A Zeal not According to Knowledge.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
THE blind Jews who rejected Christ manifested a great zeal for God, as they supposed, by persecuting the followers of Jesus. Of them Paul said: “For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.” Rom. 10: 2. I frequently see illustrations of this kind of zeal now. I will give one or two: A man in Osceola, Iowa, embraced the present truth. After observing the Sabbath for several weeks, he went out one Sunday morning and threw his wood over the fence into his yard. A neighbor, seeing this, became very indignant at such a violation of the holy Sunday. To show his great zeal for the Lord and his law, he loudly declared that the next day he would certainly prosecute his neighbor for working on Sunday. To confirm this, he swore to it with many profane oaths and curses! (He is a member of the M. E. Church, too.) Now for whom was all this great zeal? For the truth? for the right? for God? or for his honor? No; the fact that he could blaspheme his Maker’s name so irreverently, shows that he did not care for him. No; it was simply a blind, bigoted zeal, without knowledge, for one of his own pet human traditions. Take another case: One year ago some twenty or more members of the Christian church in Peru, Iowa, saw the truth, and conscientiously came out to keep the Sabbath. Immediately, without any trial, they were all turned out of the church. The burning zeal of the other members of that church would not allow them for a moment to tolerate such profane, wicked persons in their church! But at the very same time they had members in the church who would swear, fight, play cards, dance, &c. What did they do with these? Turn them out? No, indeed; they are still members of that church! What, then, was their zeal for? Not for God and his holy law, certainly, but for their own traditions. How often I have seen cases like this: A man living in an unconverted or backslidden condition is never visited by the minister, nor any effort made for his soul’s salvation. He becomes interested in the present truth, and is about deciding to keep God’s commandments and become a Christian. Now, all at once, the minister has a special interest for him and visits him, prays for him, &c. What is all this for? Love for his soul? Why, then, not go before? Zeal for the Lord? Why not show it before? Fear that he will be led away from the Lord? He was far away by wicked works before. No, it is simply a bigoted, selfish zeal for his own theories—a zeal not according to knowledge. Illinois Church Meetings and Baptisms Report
By R. F. Andrews
Since closing up labor with the tent, I have held interesting meetings at Aledo, Erie, Winslow, Princeville, Gridley, Pontiac, Vermillionville, and Northville. Had precious seasons at all the above places. At Aledo, eight were baptized and the brethren were greatly encouraged. There is no reason why this may not be a strong church and have great influence for good, if they will only walk humbly, and faithfully before the Lord. At Erie, there are but few Sabbath-keepers, yet they are strong in the truth, and their influence is beginning to be felt. God grant that they may always gather with Christ and not scatter abroad. The enemy was trying to distract the friends of the truth at Winslow and vicinity; but the Lord graciously met with us, and set the truth home to the hearts of all, by the gentle influence of his Spirit. Union was restored, and his blessing resting richly upon his people. We were cheered by the presence of brethren and sisters at this meeting, from Monroe, Wis., Greenvale and Nora, Ill. At our closing meeting we celebrated the death of our divine Lord. It was good to be there. There has been a great many things to discourage the brethren at Princeville, and to weaken their hands. The cause has been reproached by its professed friends. The enemies of the truth have rejoiced, and the real lovers of the cause of God have been led to mourn as they have seen Jesus wounded in the house of his friends. May God bless these faithful ones. “Offences must needs come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!” Jesus says, “It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.” Let us be careful how we reproach Christ, and put the people of God to shame. The brethren all seemed encouraged, to take hold anew to gain the prize, even everlasting life. At Gridley, the brethren are greatly scattered. They need a good deal of energy to get together. The Lord help them, that they “forsake not the assembling of themselves together as the manner of some is,” but that they may meet. and exhort “one another: and so much the more as they see the day approaching.” The few at Pontiac are strong in the truth, and of good courage. The Lord has added three to their number of late. But at this place Christ and his cause has been reproached. I would to God that unconsecrated individuals could see the terrible wickedness of their course, and either come out on the Lord’s side fully, or else sail under their own banner. Bro. Marsh was ordained elder. We had a sweet and refreshing time commemorating the Lord’s humility and death. May these dear brethren and sisters be faithful till the Master comes. Vermillionville is some four miles west of where our tent was last pitched. First-day Adventists in past time have had quite an influence here, but their cause at present stands very low. How hard it is to labor in a locality where the advent doctrine has been reproached. There are now some fifteen Sabbath-keepers in this vicinity. Oh! that they may be a light in this dark corner of the earth. Had most an excellent meeting at Northville. This church is growing strong, gaining in knowledge, and becoming rooted and grounded in the truth. Lord grant that they may ever walk in meekness and love, keeping “the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace,” giving all diligence lest any “root of bitterness” springing up trouble them and thereby many be defiled. Jesus says, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” While carrying out the instructions of our Saviour in John 13, and commemorating his death, we felt his rich blessing rest upon us, and we felt that his precious words were true: “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” The brethren here are greatly in need of a convenient place to hold meetings. I sincerely hope that they will put forth a determined and united effort to erect a meeting-house in the spring. May the Lord give to us all the spirit of sacrifice, and devotion to his cause. “Soon the night will come when no man can work.” R. F. ANDREWS. THE Sabbath and first-day following the close of our Conference, I held meetings with the brethren and friends at North Volney. Found those that had commenced to keep the Sabbath during my labors there previous to the Conference firm in the truth. Sabbath, Sept. 2, met with the church in Oswego City. First-day, Sept. 3, and during the following week, held several meetings in a school-house near sister Moe's, in the town of Scriba. There was but little apparent interest. Sept. 9 and 10, attended our monthly meeting at Roosevelt. Our meetings were interesting, and, I trust, profitable. Two were baptized. The 16th and 17th, held an interesting meeting at North Volney. Three were baptized. Sept. 21, came to Genoa, Cayuga Co. I spent about six weeks in that vicinity in laboring in new fields. At the town line school-house, Moravia, held twenty-six meetings. There was much prejudice at first, but it gave way somewhat as the meetings progressed. A number became much interested in the truth, and a few decided to obey all the commandments of God. Others confessed the truth. It was then objected to having further meetings in the house, and, no other place opening, I was obliged to close my meetings for the present. I held several Sabbath and one ordinance meeting with the church at Genoa, which were seasons of interest and profit. The church appeared united and striving to overcome. Nov. 17, had another interesting Sabbath meeting at Genoa. The 20th, commenced meetings in a school-house in Locke. The interest to hear was small, and after giving nine lectures I thought it duty to close the meetings. One or two manifested a desire for salvation, and I hope they may yet obey the whole truth. I visited also the friends at the town line school-house. Found the interest apparently increasing among the friends. But, no place opening for public meetings, I tried to do what I could in visiting and praying with them at their homes, and circulating publications among them. I hope the way may open for further meetings there after their school shall close. Dec. 9 and 10, attended our monthly meeting at Smith's Mills. Sabbath morning was very stormy and but few were present from other churches. But the blessing of the Lord was with us in our meetings. I came to this place by request, and yesterday commenced meeting in the Union meeting-house. Gave two discourses which were listened to with attention. I expect to remain here as long as duty may require, and hope good may result. I feel encouraged to labor on in this cause, believing the time for labor is short, and that what we do must be done quickly. May I have grace to labor faithfully, is my prayer. F. WHEELER. Texas, N. Y., Dec. 18, 1871. “What Shall Be Done?”
By Albert Stone
I WOULD respectfully call the attention of all our brethren and sisters through the wide harvest field to the article from the pen of Bro. White, in the 26th number of volume 38 of the REVIEW, entitled, “What shall be done? Laborers wanted!” If any have not read that article, it is hoped they will do so without further delay, and let those who have, read it again, and let those who have read it twice not lay it on the table, but pass it to a third reading, and so keep it before the mind till the spirit of the article becomes a part of their being. Let this call be heeded by us all; for it is made to all; to men and women, to those in the house and those in the field; to those in the shop and in the office; to those behind the counter and in the school room. This is a work of graduation. There is a sphere in which each can work effectively. A system of colportage is coming into action, in which many young men and young women can engage with advantage to the cause and to themselves. Yea, and old men, too, who have borne the burden and heat of the day in times past, but who by reason of age and failing strength must now have lighter work. Those who cannot make brick can gather straw for the workmen. The hands of the workmen must be stayed up, cheering words must be spoken, encouragement must be given to those engaged in the different departments of the work. The soldier who had both hands shot off in31 battle, still lingered on the field to see how the battle would go, and cried, “Courage, courage, comrades! hold out five minutes, and victory will be ours!” This seasonable word of encouragement was like a spark of electricity to the men, and victory was the result. The consecrated mind will find work to do if it can be no more than words of encouragement and good cheer. But this will not do for those who can do more. ALBERT STONE. Eden Mills, Vermont, Dec. 22, 1871. THE BETTER WORLD.
By R. F. Cottrell
What has this dreary earth for me?
That I should wish to stay;
Its promises are false, I see,
Oh! let me go away.
From storms and sufferings here below,
We never shall be free;
Oh! when shall we depart, and go
The better land to see? There is a better world to come,
By faith, we know ’tis sure;
It is a most delightful home,
And ever will endure.
No storm shall rise, and no dark night
Shall e’er obscure the day,
Its pure, unutterable delight
Will never pass away. When we have joy, ’tis well to think
Earth’s joys not long will stay;
When we have grief, we need not sink;
This too will pass away.
Not so with joys laid up in store
For those who overcome;
Those joys will last forevermore,
In that eternal home. Labors with Churches in Vermont
By Albert Stone
SINCE the first of September, I have labored with the churches in Stowe, Johnson, Eden, Richford and Berkshire, Vt. Spent two Sabbaths and first-days with the brethren at West Bolton, and preached in several neighborhoods where there are no Sabbath-keepers. I have also visited several families of Baptists and other friends, in Johnson, Waterville and Lowell, with whom I formerly labored as a Baptist preacher. In all these places I was well received, and the truths of the third angel’s message were listened to, in most cases with marked attention, and in all with candor. The signs of the times are being discerned by many, as they have not been in times past. The voice of God, as heard in the attitude of the elements the past year, the immense amount of suffering and loss of life occasioned thereby, the ratio of crime in all its forms—these utterances of the voice of God, which have no parallel in past history, are opening the eyes of some, others are convicted that these things are harbingers of the day of God; and prelibations of his wrath in which the world is soon to be submerged. Prejudice against the truth in Vermont is to some extent yielding to the combined force of God’s providence and grace. Our meetings with the churches are of a more elevated character than heretofore. The camp-meetings have been useful, and their effect has not yet ceased. We are thankful for the late visit of sister White. By it we trust an impetus is given to the cause in our midst. In September I baptized my youngest son at Richford. Last Sabbath was a day long to be remembered by the church in Richford. Plain remarks were made on preparing the way of the Lord by putting away our sins, and defects of character. The testimonies given by the brethren and sisters, mingled with confessions, as they were to the point, took effect. Eyes were suffused with tears, and hearts, we trust, broken. One person decided henceforth to keep all the commandments of God, and faith of Jesus. In the evening the church met and organized a society for the distribution of our publications agreeably to the suggestion of Bro. White in REVIEW. Twenty-five dollars were raised and nearly all paid to purchase books and tracts for distribution. ALBERT STONE. Osceola to Winterset, Iowa.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
I REMAINED at Osceola till Dec. 20 to set things in order, settle up bills, &c. All turned out well and took right hold of the work. Several additional persons have lately come out on the Sabbath, and still others are almost persuaded. The outside attendance was good. I baptized seven on Sunday. After this I came to Peru and labored two weeks. The weather was very bad and the roads worse; hence we could not get up that interest we otherwise would have had. The last two evenings our house was crowded. We settled some little bills still back on the house repairing, raised $17 for a Sabbath-school library, organized a parish to hold the church property, organized a church of seventeen members, appointed an elder, &c. Here again we have been obliged to leave a church too long in its infancy without help, and it has suffered in consequence. Some have given up entirely, though not many. Some had lost their interest, and ceased to work. A couple of very bad cases of family difficulty had occurred, which hurt the cause and discouraged many. Yet the majority were working away with commendable patience and courage. We spent most of our time trying to set things in a right light and on a proper basis. On the whole, we feel some encouraged about them. They must have their time of trial as well as others. All must be proved and tried. Trials show who have the true material in them. I was glad to see a considerable advance in the health reform. Sunday, Dec. 31, I came to Winterset and enjoyed a free good visit and meeting with the church here. I was rejoiced to see them all so firm in the truth, and growing stronger and loving the whole truth. Several who drew off have come back, and, really, I have more hopes for the cause here now than at any time for a year past. So the Lord gives us some unexpected encouragement here and there along to keep us from fainting. Jan. 1 I returned home, after an absence of eight weeks. Again I resolve to strive harder than ever to love and obey God this year. Looking over the last year, shame, sorrow, and regret fill my heart that I did not stand the test better. Thank God, probation still continues. My health is good and courage strong. D. M. CANRIGHT. Isabella Co., Mich.
By J. O. Corliss
HAVE just finished a course of lectures in the town of Vernon, about two miles south of the F. & P. M. R. R. The country is very new and thinly settled, consequently the attendance has been small, yet the interest to hear has been good. Have given only sixteen discourses, condensing the subjects as much as the circumstances would admit, and up to this time eight have decided to obey God by keeping all his commandments. Others are investigating. May the Lord help them to lay aside worldly interests in making their final decision, and do it in the fear of God. Sold and gave away about eight dollars’ worth of books, and obtained three subscribers for the REVIEW. The friends have also handed to me in money nine dollars. After the holidays, I intend to commence a course of lectures at Mt. Pleasant, the county seat of Isabella County. By request of the brethren here, I would ask if Bro. Lawrence or Van Horn could not make it convenient to come and labor a week in this place to take the necessary steps to organize a church. May the Lord direct my footsteps in the path of duty. I desire to work humbly before him, and ever be found faithful in his cause. To this end I desire the prayers of God’s people. When the joys of youth are o'er,
Faded, to return no more,
When our path is darker grown,
And our hearts are sad and lone,
When no kindred smile we see,
Father, then we'll trust in thee. When the storm-cloud darker grows,
And the lurid lightning glows,
When no earthly voice we hear
In the midnight tempest drear,
And no look of love we see,
Father, then we'll trust in thee. When our locks are thin and white,
And fading eyes foretell the night,
When our brow is furrowed o'er,
And we near the parting shore,
When the vale of death we see,
Father, then we'll trust in thee. Is the Fourth Commandment Recognized in the New Testament?
By S. B. Whitney
THE supposition that the fourth commandment is not specifically mentioned in the New Testament, seems to be a serious objection to the seventh day, in the minds of some sincere and conscientious persons. For the benefit of such we want to consider the question briefly. The Saviour says, Mark 2:27, “The Sabbath was made for man.” Now we inquire, How was the Sabbath made? and reply, By God’s resting on the seventh day, and blessing and sanctifying it because he thus rested. But these are the very facts upon which the fourth commandment is based. Here, then, is an express recognition of that command by the “Lord of the Sabbath.” But again, in Luke 23:56, of certain women we read: “And they . . . rested the Sabbath-day according to the commandment.” What commandment? The fourth, of course. This was mentioned as a historical event years after it occurred; and Luke does not say “according to the old commandment,” or “what was then the commandment,” but “according to the commandment,” thereby unequivocally recognizing the fourth commandment as then in existence and of binding force. S. B. WHITNEY. West Bolton, Vt.
By A. S. Hutchins
To THOSE interested in the spread of Bible truth and Bible holiness, and the final triumph of the last message of mercy to the world, and especially to Bro. and sister White, I wish to say, There are still omens of good here. The meetings held by sister W. in this place certainly left a very wholesome impression upon the minds of brethren and sisters, and a large circle of friends who heard. I am informed that citizens living in adjoining towns intended to attend these meetings, but on hearing of our failure to obtain a larger house than the school-house, said they would not go to crowd out those living nearer. Since our return from Bordoville, I know not how many have asked, “Are Eld. White and wife coming here this winter?” “Are not your people going to build a meeting-house?” In behalf of hundreds west of the Green Mountains, who have ears to hear, and we hope many with hearts to obey, we affectionately say to our dear Bro. and sister W., if consistent with your numerous and urgent duties elsewhere, Come. Hearts and homes are open to receive you. I still labor to advance the good work as health and strength admit, praying and hoping for heavenly wisdom, to live in the divine favor of the Most High, and in the confidence and affection of his dear people. In our visits last week, two gave us encouragement that they should keep the Bible Sabbath, who never had as yet. Last Sabbath our meeting was one of interest. Last evening I had an appointment for the West Bolton school-house, which, considering the darkness, rain, and bad traveling now that our sleighing has gone, was quite well attended. May God graciously bless anxious souls in inquiring the way to Zion, and they be led into the light and joyful freedom of the sons of God. A. S. HUTCHINS. Jan. 1, 1872. It was a touching incident which fell under the notice of a Christian lady lately at a railway station. She saw a husband bear his invalid wife in his arms from the car. As clasping his neck she was thus borne to a carriage, she remarked to a friend who stood near, in tones of unexpected cheerfulness, “You see, I come as I went.” Weak and helpless she had gone, weak and helpless she had returned; but, alike in going and coming, she had rested within the strong arms of him who loved her. And is this not the daily experience of every saint? How feeble in himself, yet how strong in Christ! “Without me ye can do nothing,” says the voice of Jesus. “I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me!” exclaims the apostle. “When I am weak, then am I strong.” THE world is full of unsatisfied, disappointed men, and, strange as it may seem, this class embraces those who successfully make wealth the principal object of life. It is less what we do for ourselves than what we do for others that gives peace of conscience at last. Kepler was very poor, but he declared that he would rather be the author of the works that he had written than to possess the Duchy of Saxony. He rightly estimated the value of life. The following article, from the Interior, is worthy of the careful perusal of those who have reached the turning point of their early career, not that all young men should study a profession, but that all should seek to do that which will render them most serviceable to mankind: “The Commencement of N. College is just over. There graduated with high honor, after the laborious toiling of a long course of study, a young man, bright, talented, and withal and better than all, a Christian. Within one hour after his Commencement oration, he talked to me about his profession. The law opens up before him with many attractions. Indeed, as he tells me, he has already, in his “Senior vacation,” registered with a lawyer of some note at his own county-seat, with whom he expects to study. He has before him the example of an uncle, who has gained distinction and wealth at the bar. To him he now turns for advice. It was my privilege to be present at this interview. “‘Uncle,’ said the young man, ‘what do you think about my studying law?’” “‘That is a matter in which you must make up your mind for yourself. You may have a decided taste in that direction.’” “‘I think I should like it very much.’” “‘Well, suppose you would; might you not like something else as well, or even better? God has given you talents which you are bound to improve for his glory. Now, as it seems to me, the first question for you to decide is this: How can I best glorify God? Can I do this best at the bar, or can I do it better in the pulpit, in trying to win souls to Christ?’” “The young man was silent. This view of the matter from such a source was evidently altogether unexpected by him. And it gave me great satisfaction to hear his uncle go on further, and say: “‘I have, in the past twenty-seven years, been able, by the blessing of God, to make some money. I am worth—well, perhaps a quarter of a million of dollars, and made every cent of it by my own labor; and yet, I declare to you here to-day, that I would give it all freely if I could only preach the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ as my brothers are now doing.’ But I am now past forty-eight years of age—too old to think of preaching; but I would be greatly pleased to know that you are engaged in a work so noble and Christ-like. Again: This remember—happiness does not come as a matter of course, when you have gained distinction, or because you have large means at your command. There never was a greater mistake than this. I say to you frankly, that I am not the happy, free-from-care man to-day that I was twenty-five years ago. I know I have not the peace and contentment that this brother of mine has, although I have all that wealth can buy. I have nights of consuming care and wasting anxiety which are seen by no eye but the One that neither slumbers nor sleeps. Again, do not forget, after you have grasped fame, and honor, and large wealth, what a frail bubble you have in your hand. Take the case of Judge Y., of our own State. I suppose that he is by all odds the ablest lawyer we have. But look at him. He has just gone to the New England States, by the advice of his physicians, that he may there, freed from business care and anxiety, get relief from that terrible malady—softening of the brain. I tell you,’ continued the uncle, under emotion, ‘it is not all of life to live. You have something to do for the Master who has bought you; and nothing could please me more than to know that your life-work will be preaching of the gospel.’” The Little Girl and the Coal Shovel
By Spurgeon
A poor woman had a supply of coals laid at her door by a charitable neighbor. A very little girl came out with a fire-shovel, and began to take a shovel-full at a time, and carry it to a sort of a bin in the cellar. I said, “Do you expect to get all that coal in with your little shovel?” She was quite confused with my question, but her answer was striking: “Yes, sir, if I work long enough.” Humble worker, make up for your want of ability by abundant continuance in well-doing, and your life-work will not be trivial. The repetition of small efforts will effect more than the occasional use of great talents.—Spurgeon.