p. 198 | Review and Herald, Vol. 48, No. 25. (12/21/1876)

RESTITUTION AND COVENANT.

By J. H. Waggoner

I can but express surprise that the Restitution tries to make out that my views of the law and the covenant have changed, since the publication of my pamphlet on the law over twenty years ago, or that I disagree with any brother who has written on this subject. In that book were the following words:—

“The Lord sent a message to the children of Israel by Moses as follows: ‘If ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me, above all people; for all the earth is mine. And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.’ The people sent back an answer, saying, ‘All that the Lord hath spoken we will do.’ But as yet they had not heard his voice, neither had he declared his covenant unto them: only they had seen what he did for them, how he bare them on eagles’ wings and brought them unto himself. Verse 4. But the agreement was entered into, the arrangement made, and every thing in readiness for a declaration of God’s holy covenant, the condition of the covenant made, or agreement entered into, with them. All should bear in mind the fact that the term covenant is used in reference to different things in the Bible: as a promise; [Gen. 9:8-17;] agreement, [Ex. 19:5-8; Heb. 8:9,] or law: [1 Chron. 16:15-17; Deut. 4:12, 13;] so that as in the chapter in consideration, a covenant or law may be given as the condition of a covenant or agreement made; and the significance of the word is sufficiently comprehensive to warrant such a use of it in the sacred writings: being, according to Greenfield, ‘Any disposition, arrangement, institution or dispensation.’”

In my articles published last summer (No. 5) are the following words:—

“The word itself (covenant) designates no particular thing. The connection must determine its use in any instance.”

“The position of those who oppose the law of God is this: They say the covenant made with Judah and Israel was the ten commandments; and as the old covenant has passed away, they conclude that the ten commandments are no longer binding. The opinion is drawn from the fact that the ten commandments are called a covenant. But their conclusion is not necessary; it conflicts with the teaching of the Scriptures.”

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS NOT THE OLD COVENANT.

“1. We have seen that the word covenant is not determinate; it may refer to the law or to something else.”

“2. The first or primary meaning of the word is not a law; therefore, we should not refer it to the law without a sufficient reason.”

“3. The ten commandments do not bear the characteristics of the covenant made with Israel, as we shall further see. That was a contract between the two parties, or, as Greenfield gives the definition of covenant, mutual promise with conditions,” &c.

How any one can find a difference of sentiment or belief in these is truly a marvel. If the editor of the Restitution would leave his speculations about the future age, and come to consider the duties which pertain to the present time, he would have no difficulty about our unity of faith. I would recommend him to try to harmonize the views of any two writers advocating the “Age to Come.” If he faithfully undertakes that task he will find little spare time to criticize his neighbors.

J. H. Waggoner.

Oakland, Cal., Dec. 25.

“WE DON'T SEE IT ALIKE.”

By R. F. Cottrell

This was the language of one who had not investigated our claims to Bible truth, uttered as a reason for not hearing on the subject. What is it that we do not see alike? The commandments of God, the moral law. Do not these commandments read alike to all? Is not their testimony clear and harmonious? Where is the fault that we do not see them alike? Or, is it the design of the Lawgiver that we should not see and keep his law alike? Is it better to have different ways of acknowledging the only living and true God, and showing our reverence to him? Is it better to differ in the manner of keeping the commandments that forbid murder, adultery, theft, and false witness? All of us know that there is but just one way of keeping nine of the ten commandments. God has been successful in making nine of them so plain that we all can see them alike. Is it not to be regretted that he failed to make the Sabbath precept as plain as the others? Had he made this precept as plain as the others, his law would have been perfect, as the Holy Spirit has testified, saying, “The law of the Lord is perfect.” Ps. 19:7.

But is the fault in God, in his law, in his word, that we do not understand this most explicit commandment alike? No, my friends, no. The only difficulty is, that a tradition of men has usurped the place, and made void the commandment, of God; and the perversity of depraved human nature will not permit men to acknowledge the fault, break away from custom, and keep the commandment of God as it is, as it ever has been, and as it will be in the world to come. Isa. 66:22, 23. There is no fault in the law. It is as plain and explicit as words can make it. Let the objector make the Sabbath precept more explicit and definite if he can. God did not design that we should differ, but that we should be “perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.” 1 Cor. 1:10. “God is not the author of confusion.” Chap. 14:33. The fault is with men alone. Now let us reason together. Is the fault with those who hold the law as it reads, or with those who hold to a change?

R. F. Cottrell.

PRAY FOR THEM.

By H. A. St. John

Both men and women are now beginning the work of canvassing for our periodicals, especially the Signs of the Times and Health Reformer. In every direction they will move among the people to seek subscribers for the above named excellent papers. Their work is a responsible one, but when done judiciously, it will undoubtedly result in bringing many souls to rejoice in the light of present truth.

With what carefulness should they move! To do good should be their highest motive. But we bespeak for them an interest in the prayers of all that love God and his truth. Let all pray for their success, that angels may go before them and open the hearts of the honest to appreciate, and their minds to weigh and accept, the last message of warning and mercy.

H. A. St. John.

KANSAS

By J. Lamont; Geo. Kennedy

OSAWKEE.

The quarterly meeting at this place began Nov. 28, and continued eight days. The attendance was not very large, yet the interest was good. Nine were added to the church. Six were baptized. The Sabbath-school is in a prosperous condition. The Dunkers have a large church in this vicinity and had pretty firmly fastened their trine-immersion doctrine on the community at large. But with the help of the Lord we showed up this outrageous Christian baptism in such a manner that the “spell” is entirely broken.

PLEASANT VALLEY.

At the close of the Osawkee meeting, we returned to Pleasant Valley and held meetings from Wednesday night till the close of the Sabbath. Three more were added to the church. On Sabbath the brethren from Osawkee met with us. We celebrated the ordinances. Had an excellent meeting. This was the first meeting of this kind either of these churches ever enjoyed. These churches are both in good condition with bright prospects before them.

J. LAMONT, GEO. KENNEDY.

Dec. 11. 1876.

SPRING ARBOR, MICH.

By E. P. Daniels

For four weeks I have been engaged in labor with the church at this place, and I am glad to report favorably of its present prosperity and future prospects. Five in number were received into its fellowship, four by letter, one upon conversion. On the evening of Dec. 4, Bro. U. Smith met with us, and gave a very interesting discourse upon the Eastern question. After the discourse, a business meeting was called, which lasted about an hour, during which the following officers were chosen to minister the affairs of the church: for elder, Eber Weed; for deacon, Samuel Humphrey, Sen.; for clerk, Theodore Butcher; for treasurer, William Parshall. After the usual ceremonies of ordination the meeting was dismissed.

I am thankful that, with but a single exception, perfect union prevails; and it is my prayer for the Spring Arbor church that ere many days every ripple upon its river of peace may be quelled into a perfect calm. Like noble men and women, keeping their eyes upon the heavenly goal, may they advance, proclaiming at every step a triumphant victory, defeating the enemy upon every assault; and at last, with the multitude of Israel’s host, may the Spring Arbor church be permitted to enter in through the gates of the eternal city.

E. P. Daniels.

PEACEABLE FRUIT.

By Frances R. Havergal

“Nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness.” Heb. 12:11.

What shall thine “afterward” be, O Lord, For this dark and suffering night? Father, what shall thine “afterward” be? Hast thou a morning of joy for me, And a new and joyous light?

What shall thine “afterward” be, O Lord, For the moan that I cannot stay? Wilt thou turn it to some new song of praise, Sweeter than sorrowless heart could raise, When the night hath passed away?

What shall thine “afterward” be, O Lord, For this helplessness of pain? A clearer view of my home above, Of my Father’s strength and my Father’s love? Shall this be my lasting gain?

What shall thine “afterward” be, O Lord? How long must thy child endure? Thou knowest! ’tis well that I know it not! Thine “afterward” cometh, I cannot tell what, But I know that thy word is sure.

What shall thine “afterward” be, O Lord? I wonder, and wait to see, (While to thy chastening hand I bow,) What “peaceable fruit” may be ripening now, Ripening fast for me!

—FRANCES R. HAVERGAL, in The Illustrated Christian Weekly.

CANADA

By A. C. Bourdeau

The going has been very bad thus far, and now we have some snow and very cold, blustering winds; yet we are trying to labor on as the way opens. We have weekly meetings Tuesday evenings at Waterloo, meet every Sabbath with the Sabbath-keepers in Bolton and vicinity, and the brethren in Stukely have prayer-meetings Wednesday evenings regularly.

Last Thursday evening, Bro. Owen commenced to give a course of lectures in the village of Warden, three miles from Waterloo; and yesterday I commenced to give lectures in this place, twelve miles from Waterloo. Our meetings will continue evenings and Sundays in both places as long as the interest may demand. Three more have embraced the Sabbath. The French who read LES SIGNES DES TEMPS like the paper much. I am trying to lead some of them to obey the truth, which I trust they will do soon. Those who have started in the good way are all trying to hold on to the truth.

Mrs. B. is with me, visiting from house to house. Our post-office address is the same—Waterloo, P. Q.

A. C. Bourdeau.

Dillonton, P. Q., Dec. 11.

WORK IN MICHIGAN.

ALMA.

Wednesday, November 29, we were with this church. On account of not reaching this place in time for the first meeting, we were unable to get them all together, yet the two meetings which we held were quite free, and some things which threatened their prosperity were removed. Those present took hold of the work for the coming year with a commendable zeal. They pledged $191.81 for S. B., and $63.93 for T. and M. Bro. Nelson, the elder, thinks those who were absent will swell it considerable more. We regret that we could not have spent a Sabbath and first-day with this church.

ESTELLA.

Thursday, 30th, Bro. F. Square, with his team, took us to this place, a distance of fourteen miles. Here we found the time too limited to accomplish anything but to transact business. Systematic Benevolence pledge with them for 1877 is $92.30, and T. and M., $10.30. This church is not one year old yet, and could we have remained a few days with them, think a good work might have been wrought; but our appointments were out for Ithaca where we went on Friday, traveling about seventeen miles over very rough and frozen roads.

ITHACA.

Sabbath and Sunday, we had the pleasure of being with this people. Our meetings were free. At the close of the second sermon, about twenty came forward for prayers. About one-half of these, for the first time, started to serve Christ. This church came up nobly in their pledges for the coming year. The S. B. is $315.50, and T. and M., $105.16.

MATHERTON

By J. Fargo; A. O. Burrill

Three meetings were held here. We found this church has had quite an increase of numbers during the year. The attendance was good, and we felt much cheered as we saw the willingness manifested by this church to bear their part in this closing work. They pledged $74.10 to the S. B. and $24.70 to the T. and M. When we began our work two weeks since, this district was in debt some $200.00. We have visited all the churches but Carson City. Already a sum sufficient to pay the debt has been pledged, and nearly one hundred dollars besides, with which to carry forward this noble work for the coming year.

Canvassers have been appointed in each of these places for the SIGNS, REFORMER, and our works in general. Dear brethren and sisters, now that the way is open before you, see that each does something.

J. FARGO, A. O. BURRILL.

NORTHERN ILLINOIS.

By G. W. Colcord

I HELD a business meeting with the friends near Belvidere, Ill., Dec. 7. As this church was only partially organized, and as they are near Roscoe; it was thought advisable to disband, and unite with the church at R. Steps were taken in that direction. Roscoe has now the prospect of becoming a strong church. Bro. J. F. Ballenger commenced a course of lectures Dec. 4 at Caledonia, not far from Belvidere; therefore I did not fill my appointment there, but went back to Durand to aid in settling a difficulty. The erring ones confessed, and promised to try again. But even this is too bad; it cost me fifty-two miles' travel and two days' work. Lord, save from errors.

On the eighth of December I rode about fifty miles across the prairie to the home of Bro. George Foreman. Oh! how cold! But we labor for Jesus; and who can do enough for the dear Saviour?

With the church at Serena, I held six meetings between Dec. 9 and 11. One was received into fellowship; one was censured. Systematic Benevolence was considered, and the future appears promising. The church sends per my hand $123.20 to the treasury. I spoke at eve to a crowded house, in Wedron. To-day we meet to transact business at W. God is good, and I re-determine to serve him with my might.

G. W. COLCORD.

Dec. 12, 1876.

POLK CO., NEBRASKA.

By Chas. L. Boyd

I am now holding meetings in this county. The house is well filled with attentive listeners. Yesterday we had a no-law sermon, which adds to the interest of our meetings.

I ask the prayers of all who pray for the advancement of light and truth.

CHAS. L. BOYD.

Stromsburg, Polk Co., Neb., Dec. 11.

MINNESOTA

By W. B. Hill; S. Fulton

WE have been holding meetings at West Point for a short time. The chief object of these meetings is to encourage those who embraced the truth last winter under the labors of Bro. Collins.

We are happy to say that the meetings so far have been a decided success. The brethren are being built up in the faith, and others are commencing to keep the commandments of God. Pray for us.

W. B. HILL, S. FULTON.

AROOSTOOK CO., MAINE.

By J. B. Goodrich

I came to this county, Oct. 12. The weather has been very unfavorable for holding meetings, there having been much rain and plenty of mud.

At Oakfield an elder and a deacon were chosen and ordained, and seven united with the church. At Linneus also an elder and a deacon were ordained, and we attended to the ordinances. At Bridgewater we found the interest low; but one who had become discouraged and given up the Sabbath confessed his error, and took a decided stand to live out the truth again. “United we stand, divided we fall.”

I arrived in New Sweden, Nov. 21, and remained until the 27th. Here I found a body of Sabbath-keepers who have been led to embrace the truth by reading tracts and papers. I was made welcome at their homes, and although we could not understand each other’s language, yet there was a union of spirit, and we could easily understand by the shake of the hand that we all belonged to one family. Eph. 2:19. The Baptist minister kindly gave me an invitation to attend their prayer-meeting, and requested me to preach, which I gladly did, and he acted as an interpreter. The services closed with a good, free prayer-meeting. I enjoyed freedom in speaking to the people, and many of the youth could readily understand me. Some became deeply interested in the subjects presented, and acknowledged that we have the truth on the law question. Bro. C. J. Gellott and the Baptist minister kindly assisted me in all our meetings by acting as interpreters, for which I felt very thankful. Sixteen signed the covenant and chose a leader and a deacon. May the Lord bless this dear people, and add to their numbers daily such as shall be saved.

Dec. 2, I was thankful for the privilege of meeting Bro. James Sawyer at Oakfield, and on Sunday at Linneus in a quarterly T. and M. meeting. Our meetings were free and interesting.

Bro. Sawyer left for New Sweden Dec. 4. May the Lord bless him in his labors among that people, and may many souls be saved as the result of his efforts.

J. B. GOODRICH.

Hartland, Me., Dec. 7.

ILLINOIS

By C. H. Bliss

I closed my lectures at Sugar Grove school-house last evening. The house has been crowded full most of the time. Held in all, thirty meetings. Obtained seven subscribers for SIGNS and one for HEALTH REFORMER. A few are keeping the Sabbath, cannot tell yet just how many. I received about $12.00 as gifts from friends. Bro. Jas. Bute assisted me much in these meetings by singing, prayer, and conversation. I commence another series of meetings to-morrow evening at the Ray school-house about six miles from Sugar Grove. Brethren, pray for me.

C. H. Bliss.

Henry, Ill., Dec. 11.

INDIANA

By Wm. Covert

I have held three meetings in a Christian church near Slash, in Grant Co. Last night I had a house full and a good interest. I expect to give a course of lectures at this place, also to hold meetings with the brethren at West Liberty, where we labored with the tent last summer. I ask to be remembered at the throne of grace by those who pray for the success of the cause.

Wm. Covert.

Elk County, Kansas.

By C. F. Stevens

I returned to my home in Elk Co., after the debate at Rock Creek. I held meetings with the Elk Falls church, trying to settle difficulties which had prevented the prosperity of that church. Bro. Ayers joined me the 23th of November, and went with me to my appointment at Canola the 25th and 26th. We had a good meeting there. Two were added to the church. The Spirit of the Lord was manifestly present as we tried to obey in celebrating the ordinances.

We returned and continued meeting with the Elk Falls church till the 3d of December. With the blessing of God, all the difficulties and trials which had hung over the church here were settled. We all hope to learn valuable lessons by the things we have suffered. I think there are brighter days for the brethren and sisters there if they will walk in the light. The ordinances were celebrated.

Bro. Ayers started home the 3d and I started for Otland the 4th. My address is now Otland, Franklin Co.

C. F. Stevens.

THE MEETING.

By A. W. Cone

The T. and M. quarterly meeting of Dist. No. 5, Kansas, is now in the past. Owing to the short notice, there was not a very full report, and but a small attendance of the brethren from other churches. I think, brethren, we should make a greater effort to get out to these meetings. They will be just what we make them. The Lord has promised, and is fully able to do his part. Shall we do our whole duty and have the rich blessing of God? I shall try to give you no excuse next time. The last meeting, on first-day evening, was well attended by outsiders. There are some, I think, deeply interested. One member was received in the Mound City society and two in the Centerville society; so we have three more missionaries in our district.

Thus the work goes on. Brethren, let us get the true missionary spirit deeply instilled into our hearts, and earnestly labor on until the Master comes to give every man according as his works shall be. Let us continue to sow the good seed; and remember, “he that soweth bountifully shall also reap bountifully, but he that soweth sparingly shall also reap sparingly.”

Brethren, we cannot afford to be idlers in the Lord’s vineyard, for none such will ever hear the “well done good and faithful servant.” May the Lord help us to work and work now.

A. W. CONE, Director.

Uniontown, Bourbon Co., Kan.

Obituary Notices.

“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth.”

Died, in Vicksburg, Mich., Dec. 11, 1876, of cancerous tumor, sister Emily S. Graham, in the 60th year of her age. Sister G. heard the pioneers of the great Advent movement in the first message, and gladly embraced, and rejoiced in, the truth for that time. Fourteen years ago she heard the proclamation of the third message, and was baptized by Eld. John Byington, in North Liberty, Ind. She has lived a consistent Christian life, and was esteemed as one of the excellent of the earth. A surviving companion deeply feels her loss, but is sustained by the blessed hope. The funeral services were held at the M. E. church in Vicksburg, the 13th inst. U. S.

Died, at Blue Valley, Neb., Nov. 28, little Henry, son of Bro. and Sister Albert Hedgcock. Funeral discourse by the writer, Nov. 30, it being the fourth anniversary of his birthday, from the comforting words “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.” The lonely parents have the consolation of the religion of Jesus to cheer them in this hour of trial. Chas. L. Boyd.

Who Will Help?

By Roswell F. Cottrell

A GREAT work is given to the church, that is, to sound the last warning to mankind and prepare a people for the advent of Christ. You, my brethren and sisters, have been enlightened upon this subject. You have light that others have not; consequently you are responsible to Him who has given you the light, to let it shine. We have but a short time in which to labor, the field is large, the laborers few, and much depends on every one who can wield a sickle, or glean with the reapers.

Do we desire to see souls saved? Would we be glad to help in the work? Have we prayed the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers? The Lord is willing to use us in answer to our prayer. The way is open for all to work. How thankful we should be that it is possible that all may share in this blessed and glorious work, yes, glorious, work; for all the saved shall shine in glory soon—the sower and the reaper shall rejoice together; souls for whom we have labored will rejoice with us, and all shall enter into the joy of the Lord. “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.”

We have had much instruction how we may work in various ways. The cause wants means; and it wants workers; and it is much easier to give of our means, than to give ourselves to the work. Let us show ourselves willing to work every way we can. A plan has been set before us to make our donations systematic. First see that our S. B. figures are what they ought to be; then let our offering to the T. and M. cause be one-third as much. Are you glad to know about what you ought to give? I am; and I invite all in every place to act upon this suggestion. Who will have a part in the work?

R. F. C.

Dedication at Burlington, Mich

Appointments.

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Dedication at Burlington, Mich.

The church in Burlington, Mich., will hold a two-days’ meeting, Sabbath and first-day, Dec. 30 and 31. The house of worship which they have been erecting will be dedicated the 31st. All sister churches within a reasonable distance are invited to meet with us on this occasion. We hope to have a precious season worshiping together before the Lord. Eld. U. Smith has engaged, nothing preventing, to attend; and we hope Eld. S. N. Haskell will also be present to give us a lift in the tract and missionary enterprise. Can the Conference committee arrange for a series of meetings to follow the dedication? M. B. Miller.

Texas T. and M. Meeting.

The quarterly meeting of the T. and M. Society will be held in connection with the church quarterly meeting, at Dallas, the first Sabbath and Sunday in January. We expect this will be one of the most important meetings ever held in this State. Dear brethren, let us come to this meeting prepared to take hold in the cause of our Master with new energy. We hope to see all our scattered brethren at this meeting. Lay your plans beforehand to be present, and let nothing hinder you from coming. Some of our brethren have not met with us since our first meeting. Don’t stay away from the feast any longer, brethren, the Lord will bless you in coming. A. B. Rust, Director.

Norwalk, Ohio, Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 2:30 P. M. and evening. Would like a general turnout of the church at the afternoon meeting, as it will be a church meeting exclusively. Hope the brethren will have their upper room in good condition.

North Bloomfield, Dec. 30 and 31, to begin Friday evening, where Bro. Chinnock may appoint. Let scattered Sabbath-keepers in this section attend this meeting if possible.

Cleveland, Jan. 6 and 7, beginning on the Sabbath at 10:30 A. M., where Bro. Edgerton may appoint. Scattered Sabbath-keepers in the vicinity, especially all members of the former Strongsville church, are invited, particularly on Sunday. Come prepared to take care of yourselves, at least in part. Come to seek the Lord. H. A. St. John.

Potterville, Dec. 26, at 11 A. M. Eaton Rapids, “ 29, at 6 P. M. Spring Arbor, “ 30. Napoleon, Jan. 2, at 11 A. M., where Bro. Hatt may appoint. Jackson, “ 6, 7. Hillsdale, “ 9, at 11 A. M. Ransom, “ 11, at 11 A. M. Jefferson, “ 13, 14. Adrian, “ 16, at 11 A. M. Rockwood, “ 18, where Bro. Miller may appoint.

If changes should be necessary, notice will be given by letter. These meetings will be of great interest to the T. and M. Society. Hope there will be a general attendance. I. A. Olmstead, Director.

The monthly meeting of the Jackson church will be held at Jackson, Mich., the first Sabbath in January, 1877. Let all members of the church attend, or report by letter. Cannot some messenger be present? E. P. Giles.

The church at Eaton Rapids, Mich., will hold its last quarterly meeting for 1876, Dec. 30 and 31. This will be an important meeting, as we intend to rearrange s. b. and transact such other business as may be necessary. We hope every member will be present at this meeting. Come one, come all, that we may get right, start right, and work right through the year to come. Can Bro. Fargo attend this meeting, or send some one else? B. F. Lewis.

The quarterly meeting of the Baraboo church will be held at Lyons, on the first Sabbath and Sunday of January next. We hope that all the scattered members of the church will be present. The churches of Dell Prairie and Hundred Mile Grove are invited to meet with us. Come, brethren, all—all, to the help of the Lord. Let us remember the words of James. Bro. H. W. Decker is invited. Wm. H. Canfield, Clerk.

General quarterly meeting of the Iowa and Nebraska T. and M. Society at Knoxville, Iowa, Dec. 30 and 31. Read appointment again in Review No. 21. G. I. Butler.

There will be a general meeting in Dist. No. 1, Sabbath and first-day, Jan. 6 and 7. This meeting will be held in the new church at Curtis Corner, R. I.

In the Signs of Nov. 30, Bro. Loughborough speaks the sentiments of my heart in the following language:

“Brethren and sisters, parents and children, one and all, come to the meeting. Come, praying the Lord to guide us, and for his blessing to rest upon us, that this meeting may be made a source of spiritual advancement to us all. The day of the Lord is nearing. Our time to work is short. May the earnest cry go up from every heart, ‘What wilt thou have me to do?’ Brethren and sisters, let us take hold of the work with all our souls, and as never before.” Jabez C. Tucker, Director.

Meeting at Armada, Mich., Sabbath and first day, Dec. 30 and 31. Surrounding churches are invited. Will Bro. Haskell please attend? D. H. Lamson.

Providence permitting, there will be a quarterly meeting of the S. D. Adventists of Hundred Mile Grove, Wisconsin, Sabbath and Sunday, Jan. 13 and 14, 1877. A general attendance is desired. N. M. Jordan.

The next quarterly meeting for the Greenbush church will be held Dec. 30 and 31, 1876, at Bro. Page’s house in Duplain, Clinton Co., Mich. The T. and M. Society meeting will be held in connection with the quarterly meeting, on the 31st. Will the director of this seventh district meet with us, also one or more of our preaching brethren? Sister churches, and others interested, are requested to attend. May the Lord be with us all, and bless us in these meetings. Hope all past indebtedness will be settled up at this time, so as to commence anew on our s. b. pledges. O. B. Sevy, Clerk.

“Bertha’s Graveyard.”

By C. W. S.

I wish that every house in the land were provided with a similar one, with a Bertha for sexton. Soon would its surface be marked with (?) sad little mounds, each with a neat little slab at its head, on which might be read an expressive and impressive epitaph.

Send fifty cents for Sunshine Series, or send $2.00 for five copies of it (you can sell the other four quickly enough), and read these touching little stories. “Bertha’s Graveyard,” one of the stories, is alone worth the price, while a Bertha’s graveyard would be worth much more. Send for it—then you’ll know. C. W. S.

Aid the Distressed.

By G. W. Colcord

Bro. George Bennett, of Windsor, Shelby Co., Ill., needs help. He has contended with sickness in his family, has lost crops, &c. He is distressed. And, as he is a person whom I have met, whom I regard as an honest person, endeavoring to live the message, I make this call to my brethren and sisters in Illinois to assist him to provide for his family till he shall have recovered his usual health.

Let all who can, send donations in cash to our State Conference treasurer, Bro. J. R. Whitham, Aledo, Mercer Co., Ill. Don't be afraid to give, read Acts 20:35. If more should be contributed than will be needed, it will be devoted to the Conference.

Brn. Cook and Vickery promised to send some of their nice graham flour if needed. It is needed. They may send by freight, direct to Bro. Bennett. Others may join in an effort and send a box of clothing, suited to a family of six. Send to Windsor. No one need send very large sums; but let many bestow each a reasonable gift in cash. Be prompt, please, for Sr. B. writes: “We are living on corn bread; and, in fact, we have lived on bread alone during the greater part of the summer; and now our means are exhausted.” Brethren and sisters, unite in this good work with your brother,

G. W. Colcord.

Note Endorsing Sr. B's Letters and Cash Appeal

By C. W. S.

NOTE.—I have read Sr. B’s letters, and I say amen to the above. I have mailed my “amen” and sent it along. It is small, yet it bears Gen. Washington’s photograph and is endorsed by Spinner. Come, Illinois, send them in—I know you will. Send all cash to J. R. Whitham, as above. C. W. S.

Enlightening: Review of Spirit of Prophecy Volume 2

By G. W. Colcord

Enlightening.

“The entrance of thy words giveth light.” Ps. 119:130. “Whatsoever doth make manifest is light.” Eph. 5:13.

My mind reverted to the above (and similar) passages, as I eagerly read one entire chapter, and glanced at other portions, of “Spirit of Prophecy, volume 2.” I see at once that it is a volume of choice sentences, in which are couched thoughts of heavenly wisdom.

Friends of present truth, purchase and prayerfully peruse this choice book. I shall not, you will not, read in vain. G. W. COLCORD.

The Right Arm.

By H. A. St. John

If the health reform sustains the relation to the last message that the right arm does to the body, how important! See that man who has lost his right arm. How inefficient! What a poor soldier he would make! That brother in the present truth that disregards the health reform is minus a right arm in the warfare, and is, therefore, fighting at very great disadvantage. That minister that goes out to preach the third angel's message, and does not properly represent the health reform, is like a soldier going to war without a right arm. Must necessarily be inefficient. H. A. St. John.

HARD TIMES.

By H. A. S.

I HEAR it said, we have hard times; But this I'm sure we all can do,— Get one subscriber for the SIGNS, And for REFORMER get one, too.

H. A. S.

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