I UNDERSTAND that a great portion, at least, of the various denominations are of Mystic Babylon. They are daughters of the old mother, because of the family resemblance between them. They pursue in many respects a similar course to that of the Papal Church. I might mention many points of resemblance, but a few must suffice for the present.
1. A great portion of the Protestant sects follow a mystical principle of interpreting the Scriptures. This has of course led them to adopt (or rather caused them to retain), many of the false doctrines of the mother church. They have followed this course till they are literally drunken with the wine of the cup in the mother's hand. Rev. xvii.
2. In being unlawfully connected with the kings of the earth. Some may say it is an unlawful connection with the governments to seek protection from them. If so, why did Paul appeal unto Cæsar? If we were pleading for the law to enable us to enforce our religious sentiments, then, I should esteem it an unlawful position to occupy.
In what I have said respecting organizing so as to hold property legally, I do not consider that I am taking away any of the force of the real truth of the second angel's message. If holding property as a church legally, constitutes us a part of Babylon, I cannot see why it does not make us individual members of Babylon to hold property legally. Perhaps you may say with Bro. Cottrell, "We can hold property now." He205might have said, "We can have it in our possession;" but to hold it without organization (if I understand the law) is out of the question. If we as a people have been afraid of using legal means to keep our individual property from going into the hands of Satan's servants, may there not be danger of dealing too lax in regard to church property? I will give the State statute of Michigan:
Section 26. "No grant, conveyance, devise or lease of any real estate, dedicated or appropriated to the purposes, or appearing to be intended to be managed or controlled by any congregation or society, or any officer or officers thereof, in his or their official capacity, shall hereto vest any right, title or interest in any person or persons to whom such grant, conveyance, devise or lease may be made, unless the same shall be made to a congregation organized under some statute of this State, or of the late territory of Michigan, or under the provisions of this act, or under some act hereafter passed, amending or altering the same."
Some shrink back as though it was a fearful matter to organize in a legal manner, but I do not thus consider it. And perhaps an item or two on this point of what is required to organize legally, may help the minds of some. The statute of this State says:
"It shall be lawful for any number of persons of full age, not less than five, who may be desirous of forming themselves into a Church, Congregation or Religious Society, who shall sign articles of association for that purpose, to assemble together at such place as they may select, and by a plurality of votes by ballot, elect any number of discreet persons, being laymen, not less than three nor more than nine in number, as trustees, to take charge of the property belonging to, and transact all the affairs relative to the temporalities of such Church, Congregation, or Religious Society."
Some may be startled at the idea of signing articles. The law does not call upon us to take a human creed by any means. We as a people take the Bible as our standard of faith, and believe it to be a "sufficient creed." I do not know as it would be any worse for a church to set their names to an article or articles, stating the facts in regard to the manner in which we are associated together, than it is to state it verbally.
The law still further requires that the inspectors of the first election of officers shall make out a certificate of the election of such officers, and shall make acknowledgment before a Justice that they executed the same. The fact of their thus organizing, with the said certificate, is to be recorded in the Clerk's office, and they can then hold property in a legal manner, as shown above.
How this can be compared with the transactions at the tower of Babel, is beyond my conception. I wonder if all they did to make themselves a name was to take such steps as these. But still some start back as though there was sin in taking such steps. I once knew a man who professed to be a minister who went to the State of Illinois. While there he was called upon to perform a marriage ceremony. According to the law at that time, it was necessary to get a license from the Clerk of the Court before the parties could be married. But this minister was not going to make himself a part of Babylon by going to the government for a license. He would let the people know that he could marry without the aid of the two-horned beast. The people of the place admonished him that he ought to be subject to the powers that be. But he had his own way and made to himself a name, greater than he could have made, had he conformed to the letter of the law. His hasty exit (as some friends told me afterwards) was all that saved him from a coat of tar and feathers. Is it any worse to organize lawfully than to marry lawfully?
What is there in the Bible against organizing as the law requires? If it conflicts with any direct commandment of the Lord I fail to see it. If it does not, what is the wrong of it? Where is the argument to prove that it will make us a part of Babylon to thus organize? It seems we have come to a point where something must be done to hold church property. I have seen no other plan suggested as yet that will meet the case in question. I hope that the church will see eye to eye upon this as well as upon all other subjects. The Lord will guide his people aright.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH.
Battle Creek, May 3, 1860.
A NEW MOVEMENT.
By Editor
We have just received No. 1, Vol. 1, of a new sheet entitled the "Voice of the Prophets," J. V. Hines, Editor and Proprietor, No. 20 Washington st., Boston, Mass. To be published quarterly, unless called for oftener, at 25 cts. for a volume of 4 numbers, of 16 pp. each, about the size of the REVIEW. In looking over its pages we find that its design is to advocate the close of the prophetic periods and of the world's 6000 years, and the coming of Christ, between the years 1866 and 1868. The following paragraph is from one of its articles, headed, "Position on the Time of the Advent."
"We know according to the position stated at the head of this article that the advent of Christ is nigh, by the prophetic periods. How nigh? We answer, Within seven or eight years as shown by Messrs. Shimeall, Elliot, and other authorities who agree in fixing the termination of the great prophetic periods in 1866 to 1868."
Our readers will recognize in the four following considerations valid reasons why we cannot sympathize with this movement:
1. In professing to be giving the true light now in reference to the time of the advent, it throws away the past movement on this question.
2. The connection between the viiith and ixth of Daniel—between the 70 weeks and 2300 days of those chapters, by which alone we can get any clue to the commencement of the latter, which we regard as the main pillar of prophetic times—must be disproved; or if not disproved, it must be shown why those periods do not commence together in 457 B. C., before we shall be prepared for any re-adjustment of this important period. We regard the 2300 days of Dan. viii, as fixed in the time of their commencement, intermediate dates and termination, beyond the possibility of removal. We still maintain the position on the commencement and termination of those days, held by the great body of Advent believers in 1844, and which their fiercest and most talented assailants could do nothing towards disproving.
3. The passing of the time in 1844 is fully explained by the glorious subject of the Sanctuary, which has thrown a flood of light upon the Scriptures, and shown a harmony and beauty in their teaching second to no other question.
4. Could it be shown that the prophetic periods do extend to the dates above set, and then expire, it is only throwing the coming of the Lord into a period subsequent to that time; for we have no evidence that these periods extend to the coming of the Lord, but much to the contrary.
The coming of the Lord is evidently at the very doors. It is all-important that sinners be warned and the saints confirmed in their hope; and we rejoice in any means by which this can be done in which the work of God in the past, is not ignored, or positions resorted to, which will not stand the test of criticism. We could therefore wish that the movement of which we here speak, which promises to be one of great extent and influence, was not open to these objections.
Cassell’s Illustrated Publications
Cassell's Illustrated Family Bible.—Nos. 2 & 3 of this valuable and interesting periodical are received from the publishers, Cassell, Petter & Galpin, 37 Park Row, New York.
Also, part one of Cassell's Illustrated Natural History, which gives promise of being a very instructive work; To be published like the Bible, in semi-monthly numbers.
TO BRO. LOUGHBOROUGH.
By J. H. W.
DEAR BROTHER: Desiring that the church may come to the unity of the faith, and that the whole body may have the light which each member can impart, I feel constrained to ask for information on the following point:
If the various denominations of nominal christendom are daughters of Mystic Babylon, the mother of harlots, in what does this harlotry consist?
It is very important to me, and perhaps to others, that you give your views as soon as convenient, for the following reasons:
1. I am very much dependent on the light you may give, to enforce the application of the second angel's message.
2. If you have satisfactory reasons for your present position, then I have a public confession to make on account of my past preaching on that subject.
J. H. W.
Interest in the Truth at North Pembroke
By R. F. Cottrell
FROM BRO. COTTRELL.
Bro. Smith : There is some interest apparent within the bounds of my field of labor. Bro. E. B. Saunders has been laboring with me for some months past, and we have enjoyed the privilege of seeing a few turn away from the commandments of men to keep the commandments of God. At North Pembroke, Genesee Co., N. Y., we were cordially welcomed to the use of the Christian meeting house, and have, at different times, preached twelve discourses. Much interest has been manifested, but as yet one family only have fully embraced the truth. The pastor of the church received us with much liberality, giving us full liberty to appoint meetings as we pleased and yielding the time of his regular appointments on first-day for us to occupy, for which we feel thankful to God, to the pastor, and to all that portion of the church who freely granted us these privileges. The elder confessed before a large congregation that his former views relating to the law of God had been shaken by what he had heard, and for a time he was deeply interested. But I am sorry to say that he has taken position against the Sabbath, and has preached a discourse against it. Still I hope he may repent of his rashness and obey the truth. Those that have received the truth are growing stronger, and I hope others there may embrace it.
O, it is dangerous to resist the convictions of truth, that are wrought by the preaching of the word! And it seems to me that the fact that the word convicts them that they are in error—that their former undisturbed foundation is mightily shaken—is sufficient to show them where the truth lies. If their foundation was sure, it could not be shaken. I never had the first conviction that I ought to keep the first day, and I have heard many a preacher try to prove it.
At Parma some are almost persuaded to obey the truth, and two subscribed for the Review. At Mill Grove two have recently embraced the Sabbath, one of whom has never been baptized but intends to go forward the next opportunity, as I have been informed. Three individuals in different places in Niagara Co. have recently embraced the Sabbath, one of which, Bro. Rice, was a believer in the time of the first message, and engaged in preaching it.
We are now on our way to Wyoming county to attend to a call for help. May the Lord go with us, and give edge to the truth!
Yours to see the end of the war.
R. F. C.
CONFERENCE IN WIS.
By T. M. Steward
BRO. SMITH: Our second Conference in Wisconsin has closed, and I think it may well be called a refreshing from the Lord. There were present of preachers, Brn. Ingraham, Phelps, Sanborn, Allen and myself. We met according to appointment but were much disappointed in not seeing Bro. and Sister White with us. But this disappointment was counteracted by the great Shepherd of the sheep, who had compassion on us and in our need met with and abundantly blessed us. Praise His holy name. The service commenced on Sabbath eve., and continued until evening after first-day. At first some dark clouds were visible and distracting influences were to be seen; but light from the heavenly Sanctuary soon dispersed the darkness, so that love and union seemed to prevail among us. O how sweet to have that blessed Spirit of Christ pervading our assemblies. I think that truly the third angel's message will receive a new impetus from this gathering of God's saints.
How evident, when we see them flocking together from all directions with anxious hearts and tearful eyes to see and encourage one another, that God has sent and is sending his angels before us to prepare the hearts of the people to receive the loud cry of the third angel's message. My prayer is, speed on, O Lord, the message with mighty power, until it shall have accomplished the thing whereunto thou has sent it; when thy watchmen shall see eye to eye and thy servants shall be sealed with the seal of the living God, and thy saints be found without fault before thy Throne, and thy church spotless and pure, perfectly prepared for the coming of Christ. O that the time may soon come when the church shall take the high standard of holiness erected by our Saviour, that they may have a saving influence upon this ungodly world. We had six discourses and two social meetings and a business meeting.
On the last evening we had a conference meeting, and of a truth the Lord was with us in a powerful manner206by His Spirit. Ninety bore testimony for the Lord.
After the afternoon services on first-day, four were buried with Christ in baptism to walk in newness of life. May the good Shepherd lead them safely through all their trials to certain victory. I am happy to say that sweet union prevailed to that degree that even our enemies were constrained to acknowledge it; and some felt that they had found what they had long been looking for, a people united in the bonds of peace and love; and they expressed their determination to go with us to mount Zion. We truly felt that we were all children of one family.
It was sad to part with those we love so well. But dear Brn. and sisters let us be faithful; and may the Lord hasten the time when we shall all be gathered home to our father's kingdom to enjoy those blessed mansions our dear Savior has gone to prepare for us. Amen.
"How long dear Savior, O how long
Shall that bright hour delay?
Fly swifter round, ye wheels of time,
And bring the welcome day."
I can say of a truth it was the best conference I ever attended.
Mackford.
T. M. STEWARD.
P. S. Our business meeting was called to order about 9 o'clock A. M. on first-day and opened by prayer by Bro. Ingraham. After preliminaries the following resolutions were adopted (being the same that were adopted by the other conference South):
1. Resolved, That the old Wis. and Ill. tent be sent to Minnesota the coming season.
2. That we buy a new tent for Wis. and northern Ill., provided it can be manned.
3. That we give pledges for the tent to be paid by the 20th of May next.
Then our list was opened and $82.25 was pledged at this meeting.
Will Bro. White give us the common sizes of tents with their respective prices. If Bro. Andrews or Waggoner or Loughborough or any other Bro. can come and labor with me in the tent I would like to know soon. Will some one write to me. Direct to Mauston, Juneau Co., Wis.
T. M. STEWARD.
THE MEETING IN MARION, IOWA.
By M. E. Cornell
Bro. Smith: Our meetings at Marion have closed for the present. There is a great interest there.—About thirty have decided to keep the true Sabbath. The opposition has commenced in earnest, but every strike of the clergy tells in favor of the cause they hate. Many are now investigating with the utmost diligence and it is to be hoped many more will soon come out.
Our labors there were hard and wearing, but the result is most encouraging. There is good ground for expecting that a church of fifty or more will be established in Marion.
When ministers of the place took up against us, we heard, took notes and replied. Many wondered that we could endure their abuse so patiently. Some of the opposition was more christian-like, yet they could do nothing against the truth. After a discussion with Eld. McConnell, Pastor of the church called Disciples, the house was closed against me, and I finished my course of lectures in the Court House. There is now a general anxiety for the tent to come to Marion. It will doubtless do much good there. The house was crowded the last evening, and many warm-hearted friends gathered around to wish us a safe journey and speedy return. The general sympathy and respect manifested toward us, after the severe attacks made both from pulpit and press, show that the truth is getting a firm hold on the people.
We remained in Marion over four Sabbaths. The discussion lasted about a week and resulted well. We are now at Lisbon taking a little rest and waiting for the conference to-morrow.
M. E. CORNELL.
CONFERENCE AT LISBON, IOWA.
By M. E. Cornell
THIS was a precious time of reviving to many dear pilgrims. The brethren and sisters came up to the place to enjoy a good meeting and be encouraged, and were not disappointed. All would have been glad to see Bro. Brinkerhoof, but none were more anxious than ourselves, especially on account of being so nearly worn out. But the Lord strengthened and gave freedom in the truth. The social meetings were good, and many most cheering testimonies were given. It was a privilege to see how the new converts to the truth enjoyed this their first opportunity of attending a conference of Sabbath-keepers.
A sister was suddenly brought down with what appeared to be an attack of the enemy, and was very sick. On Sabbath morning her request was sent in for the prayers of the brethren and sisters. After some remarks on the subject of faith, earnest prayers were offered, and the blessing of God came into the meeting. The sister was restored, and permitted to bear her testimony in the conference before it closed.
Seven were baptized. It was a precious season. At a business meeting duly organized, Brn. J. Dorcas, J. T. Mitchell, A. G. Hart, and S. Osborn were chosen as tent committee for the northern Iowa tent. On motion Bro. J. T. Mitchell was appointed to act as secretary and treasurer for the northern Iowa tent enterprise; Bro. Mitchell will receive money and pay over as may be necessary, and keep a strict account of the same. Those who wish to aid in the tent enterprise, can send to J. T. Mitchell, Lisbon, Linn Co., Iowa.
The cause in this part of the State has evidently received a new impetus, and we confidently look for a good work the coming summer. The spirit of persecution is increasing fast, and it is having the desired effect, to increase the faith, and try the patience of the saints. Great trials and great victories are no doubt just before the remnant people, and the whole armor will be needed.
We expect to pitch the tent at Fairview this week if it arrives in time.
M. E. CORNELL.
Anamosa, Iowa, May 7, 1860.
The Third Message in Oneco
Bro. J. F. Ballenger writes from Oneco, Ills.: ‐It was in July last while attending the tent-meeting in Oneco under the charge of Brn. Ingraham and Sanborn, that I first heard the proclamation of the third message, and the great truths connected with it. Myself and companion are the only ones that have become fully settled on all these points, though there are many halting between two opinions, and two or three are keeping the Sabbath. O, may the words of eternal life that they have heard prove a savor of life unto life, and not of death unto death. When I think of the goodness207of God in leading us from the dark mazes of error into the glorious light and liberty of the third angel's message, I feel to exclaim with David, ‐Praise the Lord, O my soul. Sing praises unto our God.‐ We have great opposition from the professed churches, but notwithstanding, we feel encouraged to go on; for the promise is, ‐To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life.‐
‐When I look around upon the churches and see how the professed temples of God are making agreement with idols, and the love of many is waxing cold, and how fast and thick the storm of God's wrath is gathering over their heads, and if they repent not they must all likewise perish, O how my heart burns within me for them, and I realize truly that the harvest is great and the laborers are few. My prayer is that the Lord of the vineyard will send out laborers into his vineyard that his chosen ones may have the word of eternal life, and come out and get ready for the coming of the Son of man.‐
MAKING US A NAME.
BRO. SMITH: The discussion that is going on through the Review under the above head, of "Making us a Name," to me is painful, and I think that it is not very happifying in its tendency generally; and I fear that it is engendering strife, over which the enemy will exult. If I could see all my brethren together, I would delight to hear them talk the matter over, and perhaps talk with them; but as it is, I would have my words few and well chosen. I knew a man once who, in his ultra zeal for the abolition of slavery, declared that he never would buy another pound of Southern sugar, nor a yard of cotton clothing, because it was the product of slave labor, and was trying to form a society pledging themselves to make their own sugar, and raise flax and make linen cloth to use instead of buying cotton, while at the same time his wife and daughters were clothed in cotton and silk goods, and himself had on a cotton cravat. Strange inconsistency.
If there was a place on this earth, not claimed by any of the powers that be, and consequently no laws existing there, then it might be well for Adventists to go there and possess the land without name or title, and not be driven to the unhappy example of the bankrupt, who holds his property in another person's name. Let us try and be consistent in all things, and not be singular in anything. Let us strive to pursue the medium between two extremes. Let us heed the example of our Saviour and the apostles by conforming to the laws of the land, unless they conflict with God's law. Matt. xvii, 24; xvi, 22; Rom. xiii, 1, 17; Titus iii, 1, until the trial of our faith comes, and we refuse the mark of the beast, but have the seal of God. I hope that every church, in person or by delegate instructed, will attend the next conference at Battle Creek, and act promptly in this matter, and thereby relieve individuals and the church of God (Acts xvii, 28; 1 Cor. x, 32; xi, 16, 22; xiv, 33) at Battle Creek of an unequal burden and an unnecessary responsibility. Gal. vi, 2.
Lapeer, Mich.
To the Brethren in Wis.
By Isaac Sanborn
I would say to those friends in Wis. who have written me requesting my labors, that I will visit them as soon as I can make it consistent with other duties, and the Lord fully opens the way.
ISAAC SANBORN.
NOTICE.
BRO. SMITH: As the church here intend having a school for the benefit of the youth, it is thought best to give notice of the same through the Review. If there are any that wish to avail themselves of the privilege of sending their children here to school we will find homes for them on reasonable terms. The school is to be kept by Bro. A. Coventry, a good brother, and one who we think is capable of giving satisfaction. Tuition, two dollars per scholar for a term of sixteen weeks.
TRUMAN FINCH,
H. M. KENYON, } COMMITTEE.
L. M. JONES.
Monterey, Allegan Co., Mich. May 6, 1860.
P. S. Our school commences Monday, May 7th, 1860.
LETTERS.
By L. M. Fielde
“Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another.”
From Sister Fielde.
BRO. SMITH: I feel to thank God that through the labors of Bro Cornell, my husband and myself are now rejoicing in the light of "present truth." I hardly know how to express my gratitude for the things we have heard. Though much opposed at first I bless God that I not only became convinced, but am striving to obey the truth by keeping all God's commands and the faith of Jesus. Since Bro. C. came here, death has entered our dwelling and taken a loved and only child; and although some of the Methodists of this place say it was a judgment sent upon us for embracing this doctrine, I can only say in the language of one who died for us all, "Father forgive them, for they know not what they do." I bless God that we sorrow not as those without hope but rejoice in the hope of the glorious resurrection, when if we are faithful we shall meet those loved ones to say farewell no more forever. I now have much anxiety for my dear relations and friends who have never heard "present truth." May God give them honest hearts that when they hear they may do so without prejudice, that if they live until Jesus comes they may be found among the remnant people that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Such is my prayer.
L. M. FIELDE.
Anamosa, Iowa.
Extracts from Letters.
Sister L. E. P. Garretson writes from Knoxville, Iowa: "We are striving to keep all the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and feel that we receive blessings from heaven for so doing. We see no reason to be discouraged or dismayed at the opposition we daily meet, nor at the thousands of false reports which are going the rounds over our country about us. Satan and his angels are at work with renewed vigor to trample the third angel's message under their feet. But thanks to God, these blessed truths are his and will prevail. This work cannot be overthrown. The Knoxville church now numbers between 75 and 100 members, who are striving as much as in them lies, to fulfill their duty. The cries of this little company are daily going to heaven that God may speed his work, and that more laborers may be sent out into his vineyard to carry the warning to the hearts and homes of those who have not yet received it. I believe that the day is not far distant when these glorious truths will be borne to all the honest ones that they may turn in with the overtures of mercy to seek salvation through Jesus our Saviour. Our sister church in Pleasantville, twelve miles from this place, is in a prosperous condition, leaning on the strong arm of the Lord, who is mighty and able to impart strength to all who will diligently seek him in every time of need.
"The last call of mercy which is now sounding will soon be hushed. Are we prepared for this warning to cease? Brethren and sisters, I greatly fear that there will be some who are called out on the message unprepared for that day that is so near at hand. We cannot have that calm, peaceful hope of eternal life that Christ's followers should have, unless we come up to a fuller sense of our duty. May God aid us in knowing where and how we can work for him. There are many of us who could dispense with the little luxuries of life in order to send this message to our friends who are yet out of the ark of safety. Will we do it? Wherever our lots may be cast in this life, let us show to the world that we are looking for Jesus to appear, lest we also be overtaken as by a thief in the night."
A New Light on the Bible
Sister H. D. Peck writes from Wolcott, Vt.: "It is but a short time since I first heard what I now believe to be the truth. The Bible appears to me like an entirely new book, from what it did in times past, when I was taught to believe in the future happiness of all, sinners as well as saints. But the Lord has seen fit to spare me until now, that I may see the error of my ways, and before it is too late, turn from them to him, who is both able and willing to save all those who do his righteous will. Ought we not to be thankful for the light which shines on our path, and shows us the way which is strait and narrow, in which, if we live aright, we can securely walk, and at last have an inheritance in that blessed kingdom where all is peace and joy, where sickness and sorrow cannot come, and death never enters. When we think of this shall it not nerve us up to be faithful to the end?"
Encouragement from Minnesota
Bro. A. C. Morton writes from Deerfield, Min.: "I wish to say to my brethren and friends through the Review that my P. O. address for the present will be Deerfield, Steele Co., Min. I would also say for their encouragement that I am still striving to press on and overcome. I have felt for a time past like girding on the armor anew. I have been greatly blessed while visiting my brethren at Deerfield and other places. My heart is made to rejoice as the way brightens up. The way seems opening for the advancement of the cause in this State. Here is a wide field of labor, and the ears and hearts of the people seem to be open to hear and receive the truth."
Mackford Conference and Renewed Strength
By W. Phelps
From Bro. Phelps.
BRO. SMITH: I attended the conference at Mackford. There was a very good attendance of brethren from different parts of the State. The spirit of the Lord seemed to be in the midst. Nearly all seemed to feel the importance of rising with the message and making an entire consecration to God. The privilege of meeting the dear saints at that meeting has been a great blessing to me. My health has been poor all winter, and I went to meeting feeling feeble and depressed in spirits; but the Lord is a present help in time of need. In answer to the prayers of dear brethren and sisters, I feel much strengthened in body, and revived in spirits. My health is rapidly improving. I feel that I shall be able soon to be in the field again. I want to move in harmony with the third angel's message. I want to go through with the remnant and stand among them on mount Zion. O how I long for that country where the inhabitants will not have to say, I am sick, where saints shall be immortal, and to which the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. Isa. xxxv, 10; Rev. xxi, 4.
Ft. Atkinson, Wis. W. PHELPS;
Trials Turn to Our Advantage
Trials improved, always turn out to our advantage.
FINANCIAL REPORT.
By Editor
The expenses of the Review Office during Vol. xv, have been
For labor on books and papers, $ 1396.23
" Material and Sundries, 1433,17,
E. A. Lovell writes from Birmingham, Mich.: "I still have a hope in Christ, for I know that he died for me, and that I love his holy name. At times I feel almost alone in this world, as I have not the privilege of meeting with any brethren or sisters of like faith. But my Saviour is ever near, and I feel to praise his precious name that I ever had a heart to believe his glorious truths. When I look around and see the fearful condition this world is in, I gladly shut my eyes to the world and look away to Christ, who is the author and finisher of my faith."
BREVITIES.
By Jos. Clarke
TYRANNY.—Pharaohs are not scarce, and I would that there were no Pharaohs, hard close fisted Pharaohs, in this message.
Pharaoh was in such a hurry for brick, that he did not give his brick-makers time to read or pray. Now therefore beware, oh modern Pharaoh of this ugly sin, or the Sabbath keeping doctrines will only be a millstone to sink thee in an ocean deep as eternity.
May God pity the oppressed speedily. O speedily deliver them from their onerous burdens.
A GOOD MASTER.—Don't you know that a kind, good master makes a good servant? Oh the loving bond there is between such a master as Cornelius was and his servants! Yes, his servants were his solace, his good fortune, his recommendation. They loved him.
A HARD MASTER.—Don't you observe that a hard master makes a bad servant? His cutting reproaches, his rapacious demands for more work, stir up all the evil passions of the servant and sink him lower than he would have imagined it possible for him to sink. Alas! he ejaculates, I must earn something for my family, I must bear it, and so he resolves; but his strength fails, his arm trembles, his knees grow weak. "Why is this!" he exclaims, I was always strong before. Oh says a voice within, "Discouragement of mind afflicts the body." Oh there will be an end of this soon, thank God.
IF.—That spoils the concession; better be silent than to say If I have done wrong I am sorry. Such an assertion is hypocrisy. Wait until you have weighed the matter in the balances of the sanctuary; then frankly confess the wrong or justify the right; be one thing or the other.
TREACHERY.—The soldier may have many faults, but if he is true to his general he will still have a standing among his fellows; but the moment he makes a confident of the common enemy, he is expelled from the camp in some way. Those who understand Christianity will see the bearing of the above principle.
GRATITUDE.—Does a brother or sister or friend or enemy do you the least favor, cultivate a spirit of gratitude; think of it, appreciate it, thank the donor, show him you are not an ungrateful mule, without heart or soul. Think of poverty too proud to receive or acknowledge a favor! Away with a christianity, soulless, stubborn, ungrateful. Suppose you are poor, only be polite, amiable thankful, patient. Oh poor man do for Christ's sake get a poor man's virtue.
TRANSPARENT.—It is vain to pretend godliness, and still be Satan's agent. An ass may wear a lion's skin, yet his voice will betray his pedigree. Not less surely the hypocrite will show his true parentage, that his father is Satan the inventor of all sin and deceit.
POLICY.—Christ has said that "the children of this world are wiser in their generation (in their sphere) than the children of light;" not that it should be so, but so it is. Here is much instruction in this text; it is full of good food, and happy is he who can extract its hidden and deep meaning; we shall need it all before we get through to the city. Jos. CLARKE.
OBITUARY.
By H. C. Whitney
Fell asleep in Jesus, on the morning of the 8th inst., Emma, daughter of W. M., and Matilda Waggoner, aged 9 years. The parents have lost an affectionate daughter, and her brother and sisters a pleasant companion. May they all live so that they may meet her in the resurrection morn, at Christ's appearing and kingdom.
H. C. WHITNEY.
Knoxville, Iowa.
A Happy Change in Faith
Bro. S. N. Smith writes from Charleston, Vt. : "I have experienced that happy change I never felt before. Praise the Lord for his goodness to me! When I read the blessed pages of the Bible, a light shines out which never shone before. The holy Sabbath seems a delight. Praise the Lord for the present truth? I want this saving truth to sink with weight into my heart. I believe the third angel's message is calling out a people to stand on mount Zion. Jesus is soon coming to raise the sleeping saints and change the living ones. I want to be with the remnant when he comes."
Walking in the Truth
Bro. Wm. E. Price writes: "I am rejoiced when I hear of the steadfastness of the brethren in the truth against the opposition of the many. We have many things to contend with while we are passing through this world, yet we are encouraged by the way if we rightly appreciate those precious promises that are made to the obedient; for we hear the Lord saying, Fear not, little flock; it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. And again he says, If the truth doth make you free, then are ye free indeed. Let us then walk in the truth that the truth may make us free."