"He beareth not the sword in vain." Rom. xiii, 4. Many have supposed because Christ has said "Return good for evil," that this is a rule to be carried out without qualification, and that all law and order must now be sustained by means mild and bloodless.
Let such as suppose that the New Testament has stigmatized the military powers of earthly governments (in the rightful exercise of said power), as murderers, read Rom. xiii, 1-7, especially the 6th verse; "For they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing." How emphatic! See the centurion Cornelius, how devoted and zealous, yet how acceptable to God.
Did not God will that Satan should be driven out of heaven? Was there not war in heaven?
While we admit that it is peculiarly the calling of ambitious and worldly men to fight upon the battle field, yet we see at times that the best and purest and most humane of our race have been called to jeopardize their lives for their laws and common rights.
It is a fact that we live in a world of disorder, and the firm, stable government, existing amid such a state of things, must ascribe its firmness and strength to Him who is the author of all good.
Shall the Christian, then, who is so greatly indebted to the government for its sheltering care in the past, shall the Christian forsake his country in her hour of peril? Think of it. Is it murder to hang or shoot a traitor? No! no! When men rebel against just and good laws, death is their just due, and the executioner is clear. Does not the army of Mr. Lincoln stand between us and a military despotism worse than Pharaoh's? Shall we, then, shrink from the requisition of a military draft? Are we Christians, yet have no love to the country that has fostered us? I much like Bro. White's remarks on this point. We would not shame the memory of Washington and other heroes whom God blessed upon the field of battle.
When our government enlists itself in a bad cause, and sets itself in opposition to truth and justice, then it will be time to talk of disobedience; but while engaged in a crusade against traitors, let us like good and true men, render strict obedience to the laws.
Did not God help the British navy in chastening and destroying the Spanish Armada? Where would have been the liberty of Protestants had that Armada been successful? Were those men murderers who sent the balls thick and fast into the hulls of those monstrous ships, sinking them with their armies on board, armies all sworn to the interests of the Papal See?
What chance would there be in our own country for the progress of present truth if that Armada had succeeded in its intentions? So we might say of the revolutionary war, and other just wars. Were Joshua and David murderers? Let us lay aside fanaticism and act like men.
JOSEPH CLARKE.
The Philosophy of the Crisis
By Editor
THERE is a remarkable article in the last issue of Wilkes' Spirit of the Times, entitled "The Philosophy of the Crisis; high treason in our Camp." It is destined to attract wide attention, and if we mistake not, will produce a profound sensation on the public mind. Wilkes declares "that when the President was dragooned by the assumed clamors of the soldiers, and in opposition to sentiments of the intelligent and patriotic classes of the people, to re-instate the man that lost the Peninsular campaign, and whose minions sacrificed Pope, the civil liberties of this poor country passed beneath the sword, and a virtual military dictatorship was inaugurated, the end of which no man can foresee."
LETTERS.
"Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another."
From Sister Worden.
BRO. WHITE: After reading so many precious letters in the Review, from brethren and sisters, I cannot well resist the desire I have to say a few words, notwithstanding my brief experience in present truth. Under the teachings of Brn. Loughborough and Hull at Charlotte, Mich., I was led to behold the slender platform on which I had built my hopes of a future existence, and on which I had rested for so many years. But I praise God that mine eyes have at last been opened, that the mystic cloud of darkness has been removed, and the glorious truths of the Bible have been presented in their true light, and that now I can behold, even near at hand, the "pearly gates of the New Jerusalem." I no longer roam through a dark wilderness with the anticipation that my spirit will soon take its flight to God, but now I know that "though after my skin-worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God." There will I sing the song of Moses and the Lamb. There will I forever bask in the sunshine of a Saviour's love. There shall I dwell forever where the radiating rays of the Redeemer will ever be felt.
Language is inadequate to express the gratitude I feel to God, that I was ever privileged to hear the sound of the third angel's message, and that I ever heeded its warning call. It is my constant and fervent prayer, that he will soon establish a people here, that will give glory and honor to his name.
The Review is all the companion I have here, whose sentiments are in unison with mine, and its weekly visits are hailed with as much delight as an Inn to a weary traveler. I meet with much opposition, am ridiculed for keeping the holy Sabbath, am accused of belonging to a people who believe in "Free-loveism"; yet with all of these to contend with, with the book of God for my guide, the Review for my helper, and God's continual presence, I fear them not. Pray for me brethren and sisters that I may with you be in readiness for that day when the Deliverer shall come to make up his jewels.
"O glorious day! O blessed hope!
My heart leaps forward at the thought—,
When in that happy, holy land,
We'll no more take the parting hand."
ROSE A. WORDEN.
St. Clair, Mich.
Extracts from Letters.
Sister C. Tosh writes from South Wright, Mich. : I feel so overjoyed that I have received the third message, that I know not how to express my feelings. I have tried to live a Christian for a number of years; but now I think I have found the truth, and I am trying to practice it. I am now keeping the ten commandments and the faith of Jesus to the best of my ability. I esteem the Sabbath a delight, holy of the Lord. I am entirely alone, there being no Sabbath-keepers within five miles of me. Bro. Cramer brought the light to me by lending me books. I have never heard any of the messengers preach since the first message. I hope some may come here after the tent season is closed; for the harvest is great. I have honest neighbors who I think would see the truth if presented to them by the living preacher.
Bro. E. Styles writes from North Liberty, Ind., Sept. 14, 1862: “The church here wants a messenger to come and make his home here. We will furnish him a house, and whatever he may need. Can Bro. Hull come and labor in Indiana?”
Bro. T. M. Steward writes from Mauston, Wis., Sept. 8, 1862: “I want to say that Bro. Waggoner's views on General Conferences meet my mind exactly. I think we need some system of operation that we can all understand and co-operate together.
“I am still trying to hold on, and work for the Master as opportunity presents itself. When we received the little extra sheet speaking of Bro. S., of Iowa, it pained my heart, and I felt to pity you and sister White, to see the burdens that are thrown upon you. I much regret that I ever caused you any trouble. I hope you will forgive me, and I trust the Lord will forgive me. I intend in the future to labor for unity of faith, concentration of action, and union of principles.”
OBITUARY.
By H. James Kittle
“FELL asleep in Jesus, near Fremont, Sandusky Co. Ohio, Aug. 9, 1862, sister Susan S. Kittle wife of H. James Kittle, aged 52 years wanting 2 days. Her disease was billious fever. Her sickness lasted nine days, during which time she suffered much, and there seemed to be nothing done that could arrest the disease until it had accomplished its work.
Her attention was first called to the claims of God's law, during the fall of 1856 by Bro. Jesse Dorcas; and in the winter of 1856 and 7, Brn. Holt and Cornell came to our place and preached the present truths of the Bible in the demonstration of the Spirit, and she with six others embraced the truth, and bowed submissively to God's law and were excluded from the Baptist church because they loved the law of God better than that organization.
She was ready to embrace truth as fast as it was presented. It was her delight to not only read but study Dr. White's visions, and heed their admonitions as coming from the Lord. When the subject of organization came up she was one of the first to embrace and love it. She was anxious that the church in this place should adopt systematic benevolence, and when they neglected to do so, she said to me, we can adopt it as a family if the church does not; and we adopted it from the time of the conference at Lovett's Grove.
Her family and friends deeply feel her loss, but we mourn not as those who have no hope, for we believe that all of us who are so happy as to have part in the first resurrection will meet her.
“She sleeps in Jesus, soon to rise,
When the last trump shall rend the skies,
Then burst the fetters of the tomb,
To wake in full immortal bloom.”
H. JAMES KITTLE.
BUSINESS DEPARTMENT.
For Shares in Publishing Association.
Asahel C. Smith $10. John Bostwick $8. Viletta Kerr $10. Sarah Kerr $10. F. Howe $1.
Donations to Publishing Association.
D. Curtis 50c. Martin W. Rathbun $2. A. G. Carter $2. J. W. Burtis $8. C. Woodman $10. Ch. at Wright, Mich. $40. Ellen G. White (from friends) $10.
Books Sent By Mail.
Eliza Burbee 12c. Lewis Henry Ells $1. C. S. Clarke $2,48. Harlow C. Burt 19c. Martha A. Higley $2. L. G. Bostwick 19c. A. B. Williams 30c. T. J. Clement $1. Eli Wick 60c. Thomas Demmon $1. G. Barrows 10c. Philetus C. Truman $2. W. M. Graves 25c. O. Munn 19c. G. W. Eggleston 10c. Jesse Dorcas 75c. A. E. Tyler 40c. Mary Stephens $1,37.
Books Sent by Express.
N. N. Lunt 119 Brackett-st., Portland, Me., $5.
Cash Received on Account.
John Bostwick 81c. A. S. Hutchins $8.
PUBLICATIONS.
The law requires the pre-payment of postage on all transient publications, at the rates of one cent an ounce for Books and Pamphlets, and one-half cent an ounce for Tracts, in packages of eight ounces of more. Those who order Pamphlets and Tracts to be sent by mail, will please send enough to pre-pay postage. Orders, to secure attention, must be accompanied with the cash. Address ELDER JAMES WHITE, Battle Creek, Michigan.
History of the Sabbath, (in paper covers), . . . 30 10
The Three Angels of Rev. xiv, 6 12, particularly the Third Angel's Message, and the Two-horned Beast, . . 15 4
ONE CENT TRACTS. Who Changed the Sabbath? Unity of the Church Spiritual Gifts Law of God, by Wesley Appeal to men of reason on Immortality—Much in Little—Truth—Death and Burial—Preach the Word—Personality of God.
TWO CENT TRACTS. Dobney on the Law Infidelity and Spiritualism—Mark of the Beast.
English Bibles.
We have on hand a good assortment of English Bibles, which we sell at the prices given below. The size is indicated by the amount of postage.
The figures set to the following Bound Books include both the price of the Book and the postage,
The Hymn Book, containing 464 pages and 122 pieces of music. . . . . . 80 cts.
History of the Sabbath, in one volume, bound Part I, Bible History Part II, Secular History, . . . . . 60 "
Spiritual Gifts Vol. I, or the Great Controversy between Christ and his angels, and Satan and his angels, . . . . . 50 "
Spiritual Gifts Vol. II. Experience, Views and Incidents in connection with the Third Message, . . . . . 50 "
Scripture Doctrine of Future Punishment. By H. H. Dobney, Baptist Minister of England, . . . . . 75 "
Home Here and Home in Heaven, with other Poems. This work embraces all those sweet and Scriptural poems written by Annie R. Smith, from the time she embraced the third message till she fell asleep in Jesus. Price 25 cents.
The Chart. A Pictorial Illustration of the Visions of Daniel and John, 20 by 25 inches. Price 15 cents. On rollers, post-paid, 75 cts.
The War.
By Editor
It will doubtless be gratifying to the readers of the Review for the brethren to speak out freely through the Review on the present war, and the duty of Seventh-day Adventists in relation to it, provided their articles are free from that blind prejudice which has been ready to attack every advance which we as a people have made. A Bro. M. writes from Pennsylvania against our suggestions, and denounces organization, name, &c., &c. However much relief he may have felt in sending his denunciatory letter to the Office, he cannot expect us to publish it. We give those which appear kind and candid.
Bro. Ingraham writes from Monroe, Wis. Sept. 13, 1862:
"I wish to say that what you have written on the subject of drafting is satisfactory to my mind, and I wonder how any one could find fault with your position. It is not the intention of this government in this war to crush any man's religious faith, but to wipe out this unholy rebellion. When the two-horned beast makes war upon the saints with the sole object to destroy our faith in the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, I say die, to a man, before yielding to such a decree."
Bro. A. G. Carter writes from Rubicon, Wis., Sept. 18, 1862:
"It would seem most natural to me, from 2 Cor. x, 4; Rom. xii, 19-21, that the followers of Christ should not use carnal weapons, nor avenge. But how shall we understand Rom. xiii, 1-4? 'Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers, for there is no power but of God.'"
"Shall we understand this in an unlimited sense, or as referring to righteous rulers only? In verse 4 we read, 'For he is the minister of God to thee for good.' It does not seem to me that such a ruler would require God's children to do that which would be the means of breaking any of the ten commandments. I desire to understand this subject better than I do. Who among the Lord's messengers will undertake to help me to a better understanding of Rom. xiii, 1-4?"
"I acknowledge that I am a right-out-and-out coward when I am required to go into the carnal war, and if the same law was to be binding on us that was on the Jews, I would surely show my heels. See Deut. xx, 8. 'And the officers shall speak further unto the people and say, What man is there that is fearful and faint-hearted, let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren's heart faint as well as his heart. But let me have a place in that war whose weapons are not carnal, and I will stick as close as a brother.'"
Sept. 18. "You say in Review No. 15, under the caption, To Correspondents, 'Well-written articles, harmonizing the Scriptures on the subject, will be thankfully received.'"
"I can say such articles will be thankfully read by A. G. Carter. I was interested and comforted while reading what was written in last week's Review, 'To Correspondents.' I am anxious in such times as these to fully understand our duty to the rulers. I freely confess that I do not fully understand the Scriptures on that subject."
Doings of the Brethren in Western N. Y.
At a monthly meeting held in Parma, N. Y. Sept. 12-14, the following resolutions were passed unanimously:
Whereas, The war excitement at the present time seems to hedge up the way for further operations with the tent this season; and,
Whereas, Labor is evidently much needed among the various churches throughout the State, and the present opportunity seeming to be favorable for the tent messengers to perform such labor; therefore in behalf of this monthly meeting, and the brethren in Western New York,
Resolved, That we recommend and authorize Brn. Andrews and Cornell to make a tour throughout the State, and hold meetings with the several churches, and perform such labor among them, as in their judgment may be for their good, and the best good of the cause at large.
Resolved, That we recommend them, as soon as may be consistent with their duties, as set forth in the foregoing resolutions, to appoint at some central and convenient place, a State conference; and that they invite Br. and Sr. White to attend the same.
Resolved, That we now heartily invite Brn. Andrews and Cornell to remain and labor in this State and locate among us with their families.
J. M. LINDSAY, Chairman. J. M. ALDRICH, Secretary.
P. S. In behalf of the tent committee, a majority being present, I am authorized to request all churches and individuals whose pledges to the tent fund are yet unpaid, to pay the same to the treasurer, M. E. Cornell, when he comes along; and in no case delay payment of the same beyond the time of the State conference. Brethren let there be promptness in this matter. Those who have not yet subscribed, nor given according to the scripture rule, see 1 Cor. xvi, 2, are cordially invited to respond as duty may dictate.
Next monthly meeting at Bro. Buckland's, Carlton, N. Y. Second Sabbath in Oct. J. M. A.
To the Brethren in Ohio.
YOUR call for help, and a Conference this fall, we shall lay before the Michigan State Conference, and probably a preacher from this State will be sent to Ohio, who can make the necessary arrangements for a Conference in your State.
A Cheerful Atmosphere.
By Country Parson
LET us try to be like the sunshiny member of the family, who has the inestimable art to make all duty seem pleasant; all self-denial and exertion easy and desirable; even disappointment not so blank and crushing; who is like a bracing, crisp, frosty atmosphere throughout the home, without a suspicion of the element that chills and pinches. You have known people within whose influence you feel cheerful, amiable, hopeful, equal to anything! Oh, for that blessed power, and for God's grace to exercise it rightly! I do not know a more enviable gift than the energy to sway others to good; to diffuse around us an atmosphere of cheerfulness, piety, truthfulness, generosity, magnanimity. It is not a matter of great talent; not entirely a matter of great energy; but rather of earnestness and honesty, and of that quiet, constant energy which is like soft rain gently penetrating the soil. It is rather a grace than a gift; and we all know where all grace is to be had freely for the asking.—Country Parson.
Review Receipt Acknowledgments
By Editor
RECEIPTS for the Review will hereafter be acknowledged by changing the volume and number in connection with the subscriber's address, forward as far as the remittance pays.