Dr. Talmage recently preached a sermon on, “Shall we know each other in Heaven?” His text was, “I shall go to him,” being a part of the twenty-third verse of 2 Sam. 12. We make some quotations from it:—
“There is a very sick child in the abode of David the king. Disease, which stalks up the dark lane of the poor, and puts its smothering hand on the lip and nostril of the man and master, also knocks at the palace door, and, bending over the pillow, blows into the face of a young prince the frosts of pain and death. . . . He (David) wipes away the tears from his eyes, and clears the choking grief from his throat, and exclaims, ‘I shall go to him.’ Was David right or wrong?”
Answer: David was right; but Dr. T. is wrong. Hear him again:—
“Why, we are to be taken up to Heaven at last by ministering spirits. Who are they to be? Souls that went up from Madras, or Antioch, or Jerusalem? Oh, no; our glorified kindred are going to troop around us.” Again he says: “We will come down to the river of death, and give a signal to our friends on the other shore, and they will give a signal back to us; and the boat comes, and our departed kindred are the oarsmen.”
This is certainly a flowery description of the last enemy, 1 Cor. 15:26. It seems by this learned man’s arguments that the waters of death are not to touch us after all; for we are to be paddled over by our dead friends, who “troop around us,” as the doctor says. These flowery arguments (?) he afterward denies, however, in the following words:—
“And so I see a Christian soul coming down to the river of death, and he steps into the river, and the water comes to the ankle. He says, ‘Lord Jesus, is this death?’ ‘No,’ says Christ, ‘this is not death.’ And he wades still deeper down into the water until the flood comes to the knee, and he says, ‘Lord Jesus, tell me, tell me, is this death?’ and Christ says, ‘No, no; this is not death.’ And he wades still deeper down until the wave comes to the girdle; and the soul says, ‘Lord Jesus, is this death?’ ‘No,’ says Christ, ‘this is not;’ and deeper he wades the soul till the billow strikes the lip, and the departing one cries, ‘Lord Jesus, is this death?’ ‘No,’ says Christ, ‘this is not.’ But when Christ had lifted this soul upon a throne of glory, and the pomp and joy of Heaven came surging to his feet, then said Christ, ‘This, O trembling soul, this is death!’”
Several queries are suggested to our mind from reading the above:—
1. Which position does the learned doctor regard as the true one? Do the departed ones go over in boats escorted by kindred souls, or must they wade through the billows?
2. Is he in doubt as to which is the true position, and so takes both, to be on the safe side?
3. Is the lifting of a “soul upon a throne of glory,” with “the pomp and joy of Heaven surging at its feet,” death? The doctor says it is. Well, if so, what does Paul mean when he says, “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death”? 1 Cor. 15:26.
4. If our departed kindred “troop around us,” what did David mean in the last clause of the verse from which Dr. T. took his text? Verse 23: “But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” Here we find that the doctor squarely contradicts Inspiration, and that, too, in the very verse from which he selects his text.
5. If Christ has lifted David to a “throne of glory,” who can tell us what Peter meant, when, more than a thousand years after the death of David, he said, “For David is not ascended into the heavens”? Acts 2:34.
6. Why did good king Hezekiah “mourn” and have “great bitterness” at the prospect of death, if death is what the doctor describes? It was after the Lord lengthened out the king’s life that he gave utterance to the following words: “Behold, for peace I had great bitterness; but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption. . . . For the grave cannot praise thee; death cannot celebrate thee.”
We quote one paragraph more:—
“We read in the first book of the Bible that Abraham died, and was gathered to his people. Moses died, and was gathered to his people. What people? Why, their friends, their comrades, their old companions. It cannot mean anything else. So in the very beginning of the Bible four times that is taken for granted.”
We notice first the expression, “gathered to his people.” What people? “Their friends,” the doctor says. Very good, and we will say friends very closely related. Proof: “And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace.” Gen. 15:15. Did Abraham go to his fathers? The promise was that he should. Where were his fathers? Dr. T. would answer, “In Heaven.” There is one remarkable fact we discover in examining the character of Abraham’s ancestors that positively forbids such an answer. It is this: Abraham’s ancestors were idolaters. “And Joshua said unto all the people, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Your fathers dwelt on the other side of the flood in old time, even Terah, the father of Abraham, and the father of Nachor; and they served other gods.” Paul says, “They which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” If souls go to their reward at death, then the souls of Abraham’s ancestors must have gone to a place of punishment; and secondly, Abraham must have gone there too; for he was gathered to his fathers. These conclusions legitimately follow from the supposition that the soul is immortal.
What is meant, then, by being “gathered to his people”? Answer: Going to the grave, the common receptacle for all the dead. The Lord says, “Thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age.” So again he says to king Josiah, “Behold, therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace.” 2 Kings 22:20.
D. A. ROBINSON.
BENEFITS OF SABBATH-SCHOOL CULTURE.
By S. Brownsberger
The primary object of the Sabbath-school is to impart religious truth, and to impress its principles upon the hearts of the youth. But besides this, there is a mental culture that necessarily results from the faithful labor of every Sabbath-school scholar, which is an attainment of no trivial importance.
In all our educational efforts for the youth, our chief desire is not so much that they may gain a knowledge of the sciences, an acquirement of facts, as that the powers of their minds may be fully developed. This can only be accomplished by a proper exercise of the mind in study, and what better themes for thought are given us than those found in the sure word of God?
There is no other study so well adapted to develop the mental faculties as that of the Bible. Though it is not a scientific treatise, it nevertheless embodies all the principles necessary to a perfect human development. A careful study of it trains the reason, excites the imagination by contemplating the glories of the future, and stimulates all the mental faculties to a healthful activity. Indeed, many have become eminent for mental power developed chiefly by a close application to the Bible.
My dear young friends, depend upon it; though you may be deprived of the advantages of a thorough school education, you may still accomplish much in mental training by wise and faithful efforts in the Sabbath-school.
S. BROWNSBERGER.
TO DIRECTORS OF TRACT SOCIETIES.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
Dear Brethren: You have been placed by the Conference in very responsible places. The director of a district is the one who must give life and efficiency to the missionary work in his district. If you do not do this, it will not be done. Let me call your attention to some of the duties of the director. You should see that the church has a proper person for librarian. Then you should thoroughly instruct that librarian in all duties pertaining to that office,—how to keep the books and how to do the business. Then look over the books yourself. Look over every item of business, and see that it is done correctly. If you do not know how to keep the books, study them carefully until you do know.
Get the church together, talk up the T. and M. work, and urge every member to take part in it. Get up a club for the Signs. See that all sell the Annuals. There are two special duties you should be sure to see are done: 1. You should see that every Sabbath-keeping family has the REVIEW, Good Health, and the Instructor; 2. You should see that every Sabbath-keeper in the church or out of it pays S. B. Let each director, within the next three months, or sooner if possible, personally visit every Sabbath-keeper in his district. Talk with them. Lay before them the wants of the cause. See if they pay S. B. See if they engage in the tract work. See if they are living out the truth. See how you can encourage them in the good way. We recommend that you go around from house to house, get a few brethren together, and have a little evening prayer-meeting. Talk up the work. Then in particular see that you visit and look after the lonely and scattered ones and those who are in discouragement, who have fallen back, and even been turned out of the church. My brethren, you must not give up these dear souls. You must not leave them to perish alone.
We find that nearly one-third of all the Sabbath-keepers are lonely, scattered ones. Please sit down and make a written list of all the Sabbath-keepers that you can hear of in all your district, and then lay your plans to go and see them immediately. Take some good brethren with you, and stir them up in this work.
D. M. Canright.
Obedience Is the Proof of Our Love
OBEDIENCE is the proof of our love. “Why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”
THE GENERAL CONFERENCE.
By R. F. Cottrell
We have reached a point of the most thrilling importance in the history of our work in the last message. The world is on the eve of great events; and never was there a time, since the great plan of redemption and salvation was laid, of greater importance to the people who would have a part in this great salvation.
The session of the General Conference at this time is a meeting of the deepest interest to the lovers of truth. Deliberations of the deepest importance in the cause of God are to be had; and it is most ardently to be desired that right decisions may be the result; so that measures may be taken such as the Spirit of God will approve.
All who have an interest in this meeting, and who would be glad to be present, cannot attend. Many who would be present will of necessity be absent. But we all have the privilege of meeting in spirit around the throne of grace, now and onward to the close of the session, and praying God to give wisdom and guidance to his servants, that the best interests of the cause may be promoted, and the salvation of many souls may be the result.
Have you a deep and abiding interest in the work, pray for its success; if not, pray God to awaken your own soul to a sense of duty and of the importance of these swiftly passing moments, that they may be spent in the cause of God and dying humanity.
R. F. COTTRELL.
ILLINOIS
Jefferson Co.— I recently held meetings at the Hales school-house, a large new house. Had good congregations. Three commenced the observance of the Sabbath. March 1, a Methodist minister had the house by previous appointment. I remained with them, and was recognized. There was no opposition that I could see or hear from the Methodist ministers. The presiding elder said no one could enjoy the love of God without keeping all the commandments blameless. Some desire baptism. I have formed a circuit of appointments. The cause of truth is growing stronger. Tobacco is in the way of several. J. B. LOGAN.
Beaverville, Iroquois Co., March 31.— Not finding much interest among the Swedes in the vicinity of Beaverville, I went to a Danish settlement a few miles across the line in Indiana. I spent a week there, and visited twelve families, sold ninety cents’ worth of books, gave away about four hundred pages of tracts, and obtained one subscriber for the Tidende. I spoke three times in Danish and once in English. Some Americans gave me their names, requesting me to send them reading matter. I have sold ten Bibles within the last month.
As I read of the Tabernacle and its dedication in the REVIEW to-day, my heart was filled with joy. May the Lord meet with his people and bless them, as they worship within its walls. LEWIS JOHNSON.
MICHIGAN
Sheridan, March 27.—Four more have commenced to observe the Sabbath, and still we hope for others.
ORLANDO SOULE.
Morley, April 2.—On account of sickness, the tent-meeting held here last summer was closed when the Sabbath question was only partially before the people. However, four decided to obey. These are still firm.
We have just closed another short series of meetings in this place. The interest seems to be deeper now than at any previous time. There are now nine, all heads of families, rejoicing in the truth. These will be baptized when the assistance of a proper person can be obtained. Others are deeply interested. We held our first Sabbath meeting, March 29.
G. H. GILBERT,
D. A. WELLMAN.
GEORGIA
Houston Co.—I was in Houston county a week ago, and spoke three times at the court-house in Perry. The congregation was not large, but the most were very attentive. Four received the ordinance of baptism. There are now thirteen in that county keeping the Sabbath . Nine are freedmen. Two of the number have been ministers in other denominations.
I wish to visit Cleveland, Tenn., and would like the address of some one in the same county. Will Bro. J. E. Allen write me, and let me know where he is? C. O. TAYLOR.
Reynolds, Taylor Co.
INDIANA
By J. M. Rees
Labor among the Churches.—Since last season, my health has been so poor that I could labor but little; but I begin to feel that I would like to do something for the Master.
March 22, 23, I was with the Bunker Hill church. This church has passed through some sore trials, but I believe there are better days in store for them.
March 24, I was at Peru, looking after the scattered ones. Had a good meeting with them. Only a few are left here, as some have died, some moved away, and some given up the truth. I left them much encouraged.
March 26, 27, I was with the church at Peoria. Eight commenced to keep the Sabbath when Bro. Sharp and myself were here with the tent almost two years ago. They are all doing all they can to advance the truth. The outside interest was good.
March 29, I came to Somerset, but found it necessary to postpone for a short time the series of meetings I had intended to hold here. Seven good souls are keeping the Sabbath. There is quite an interest to hear. Obtained one subscriber for the Signs, and sold about one dollars’ worth of books.
March 31 and April 1, I spent with the church at Marion. The cause here is prospering. This church is building a meeting-house, which will be the means of bringing the truth more fully before the people.
I looked after the Sabbath-school interest at each place I visited, and all are doing well.
J. M. REES.
OPPOSITION IN VERMONT.
By C. W. Stone
In my report of March 13, I stated that since their mother's death, the five Sisco brothers had begun a praying life under the labors of first-day Adventist preachers. I am happy to correct this. It is better. Two of them were converted before their mother's death, and are members of the Methodist church.
Since that report, the Methodist minister has spoken upon the Sabbath question once, at Westfield, a mile away. His text was Col. 2: 16. He said that for four thousand years the seventh-day Sabbath was observed as a memorial of the greatest work that had then been accomplished,—creation. When he came to speak of his text, he said that it was evident that Paul referred to some things connected with the ceremonial law; but that the expression, “the Sabbath days,” must refer to the Sabbath of the decalogue, and, said he, “Paul says that was a shadow, of which Christ is the body.”
I reviewed his discourse at South Troy in the evening, before a large audience. Eld. Evans acknowledges that the Sabbath was instituted at creation, and that for four thousand years it was a memorial thereof. Then it is a shadow, not of things to come, but of things past; and the body that casts the shadow is creation. By this truthful acknowledgment he spoils his argument from the text, and unwittingly acknowledges that the text can have no reference at all to the weekly Sabbath; for the text speaks of sabbath days which are a shadow of things to come. Such were the annual sabbaths of the Jews. See Lev. 23: 24, 27, 32, 34, where three of those annual sabbaths are mentioned. These were connected with meats and drinks as those are in Col. 2: 16. They were for the purpose of offering burnt-offerings, meat-offerings, and drink-offerings (Lev. 23: 37) which were typical of the offering of Christ on Calvary.
Thus those were “shadows of things to come; but the body is of Christ.” But they are clearly distinguished from the Sabbath of the Lord in the very next verse, that is, in Lev. 23: 38. The Sabbath was instituted before sin entered the world, and could not point forward to Christ; for there was at that time no promise of a Saviour, nor any necessity for one, for man had not sinned. After sin entered, the plan of salvation through a crucified and risen Saviour was made. Then was instituted a system of worship including ceremonies, as the offering of the blood of animals, designed to keep in mind the promise of the offering of the blood of Christ, and pointing forward to that. Those annual Sabbaths were devoted to such purposes; but the Sabbath of the Lord stands unconnected with these. It existed before them, it points back to creation, and the law commanding it is enshrined amid the moral precepts of God's unchanging words. The ceremonial sabbaths, with the whole system of rites pointing to Christ, ceased at the cross. Right here we have the Lord's supper and baptism, as similar rites in this dispensation to point us back to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
Eld. Evans spent but very little time in the use of Scripture, but fled to the fathers, where he could find spurious testimony to supply that which is wanting in the Bible. The epistle of Barnabas was quoted as though genuine.
One more decided to keep the next Sabbath, and is now rejoicing in the truth.
The next evening I had liberty in examining before a good audience the slanderous statements afloat in the community, and the scurrilous book from which they were taken. The evening following, I presented the subject of spiritual gifts.
Soon after, I was present at a prayer-meeting where the man referred to in my report of March 13 was present. At the close of the meeting he produced and read that report, and asked if it referred to him. I told him it did. He complained of the language. I told him I was sorry that the report represented him as “peddling scurrilous books,” for it sounded harsh, and was too broad; but it was not exactly according to my copy. As for his course, I told him that I called it very wrong. He had circulated a vile slander, and reported things from that book that were base falsehoods. I proposed to visit him, and give him proof that those things were false. He said he did not know that it would be of any use. Last Monday evening the Methodist house at Westfield was opened for the purpose, and this man stood before an audience, and read for over an hour and a half from the slanderous portion of that book, commencing with my report of March 13.
When persons teach that the ten commandments are abolished, and then publish such vilifying reports of their neighbors, we can at least see a consistency between their theory and their practice; for one of those precepts says, “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.” And when a person will publicly circulate such libelous publications, at the same time under protest, and rejected offer of proof of their real nature, we can account for it only by charging it to the same theory. Both those who make and those who love a lie are respectfully referred to Rev. 22: 15, with a prayer that they may see their unchristian course before repentance shall be too late.
C. W. STONE.
South Troy, April 2.
B. C. MATERNAL ASSOCIATION.
By Mrs. H. F. Sprague; Mrs. Susannah Sisley
EIGHTH ANNUAL REPORT.
At this, the eighth annual gathering of the friends of the Maternal Association, for the purpose of stimulating and encouraging the workers, and to commemorate the formation of the Society, we feel exceedingly grateful that we are able to present a much more encouraging report than for some time previous.
For the first three quarters of the year, our Society moved on in its accustomed channel, holding regularly its weekly meetings for reading, prayer, and the social intercourse of thought. Very refreshing and precious were the seasons thus spent, when the Lord condescended to meet with us to lighten our burdens, and to verify his promises in our experience. Still our hearts were grieved that so few, considering the great number of mothers around us, should avail themselves of the privilege. The inquiry often arose among us, “What can be done to create a more general interest?”
It was thought by some that the principles and object of the Society were not fully understood, especially with regard to the students. Although it has been our uniform practice, ever since the students have been among us, to remember them earnestly in our prayers, to strive to influence their minds for good, and, as far as possible, take an interest in their spiritual and physical welfare, yet no mention was made of it in our constitution, for this reason, that when the Society was formed eight years ago, we had no college or students in our midst; so it was evident that we had outgrown the few simple rules that used to govern us, and it seemed necessary to revise and amend them. A meeting was accordingly appointed for that purpose on the seventh of January last. The necessary changes were made, and in the place of one officer several were appointed.
At this meeting was talked over the suggestion before made with regard to devoting some time to needlework for the special benefit of the students, some of whom are in needy circumstances, and far away from their relatives. As the result, we determined to meet the first Tuesday in every month, and oftener if necessary, and spend the time in repairing and making clothes. In order to raise funds for this desirable object, we have been writing to our absent members, over fifty in number, to induce them to pay their small annual subscription, and to increase it if willing and able. We have received several very encouraging letters, and a few have responded to the call. From others we have had no reply, but we wait in hope. We have already spent several afternoons in this agreeable occupation; and although some were weary with the burden and responsibility it necessarily119brings, we have been far more than repaid for all our toil by the hearty thanks and grateful appreciation of those we have aided. But we prize more highly the Spirit's gentle whisperings of the words of our blessed Master, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
We have found it necessary to form a Vigilant Committee of seven. Their duties are responsible and laborious. To them are referred, for their careful investigation before presenting them at our weekly meetings, all cases needing sympathy and assistance. They also purchase the materials and arrange the sewing, and act in harmony with the President in all matters pertaining to this part of the work.
To this committee, and to the friends they have influenced to assist us in various ways, we are greatly indebted. Our earnest prayers often arise to our Heavenly Father that grace and wisdom may be given them, rightly to perform their arduous duties.
Another cause for encouragement is found in the increase of our numbers. Although a very few in response to our inquiry have informed us that on account of the great distance that intervenes they cannot hope for the privilege of meeting with us again, and so think they had better sever their connection with us, in some instances asking advice with regard to forming similar societies in their own locality, twenty-three others have, during the year, added their own and children's names to our list, making in all one hundred and fifty mothers and five hundred and twenty-two children. This is quite a large number, still there are several who yet stand aloof, and others have recently come to reside in the place, whose presence and co-operation we greatly desire.
Surely no mother, with such tender solicitude and ardent longings as only mothers can feel for their unconverted children, would willingly stay away from meetings such as these. Although considerable time and attention must now be devoted to supplying their physical necessities, the salvation of their precious souls is the paramount object for which we pray and strive. Here, free from restraint, we can confer over our trials and perplexities, hopes and fears, frequently finding relief and aid, always sympathy and encouragement.
Never was there a people so laden with solemn duties and fearful responsibilities on account of the great light and blessed privileges so mercifully bestowed upon them as the people of Battle Creek. Never did mothers need the aid of such a society so much as now. Our children are rapidly growing, forming characters for time and eternity; and our opportunities of assisting them are fast drawing to a close. The few remaining events of prophecy are evidently on the eve of fulfillment, hurrying on the end of all things earthly.
With gladness of heart to render any service for the welfare of the youth around us, and to aid one another in our high and holy calling, let us gird ourselves anew, and enter another year of labor, confiding in God, who alone can give success. “Establish thou, O Lord, the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.”
MRS. H. F. SPRAGUE, Pres.
MRS. SUSANNAH SISLEY, Sec.
Battle Creek, Mich., April 1, 1879.
MY LIFE.
By Eliza H. Morton
In days of light and joy below,
At home or far, where'er I go,
All my life and song shall be,
Loving, Lord, yes, loving thee.
In hours of darkness and of gloom,
When trials dark before me loom,
All my life and song shall be,
Loving, Lord, yes, loving thee.
In glory soon earth's King I'll see,
Eternal rest he'll give to me;
Then my life and song shall be,
Loving, Lord, yes, loving thee.
ELIZA H. MORTON.
WISCONSIN
By S. Fulton
Spring Lake, March 28.—We have closed our meetings at this place. Over thirty are keeping the Sabbath. A Sabbath-school has been organized, consisting of forty members. Twenty-one copies of the Youth’s Instructor have been sent for. Almost all of the Sabbath-keeping families are taking our periodicals; and the circulating library of Sister White’s writings has been obtained, and is read with care.
The health reform and systematic benevolence have been presented, and are generally accepted by the brethren.
I expect to spend some time with the churches and the scattered brethren. S. FULTON.
IOWA
By J. Bartlett
River Sioux, April 1.—I have been here three weeks. Last Sabbath was a good day for us. One load came from Onawa, and some came from the country. The Lord was with us by his Spirit. Good testimonies were borne; and ten, mostly young persons, arose, asking the prayers of the people of God.
Some have embraced the truth. The opposition is very strong; the churches are uniting against us. After presenting the Sabbath question, I asked how many believed that Sunday was the Sabbath, or Lord’s day. One man arose. I asked him to state his reasons for his faith. He declined to do so then; but the next night he came, and his father, who is a minister, came with him. The minister spoke fifty-five minutes, and stated that there was no Sabbath, that the fourth commandment was abolished, and that there was no command for Sunday-keeping in the Bible; so his reason for Sunday-keeping proved a failure. I replied, speaking as long as he did.
Another man then took up the opposition, and tried to prove that the ten commandments were abolished, but he became involved in a difficulty by having nine of the commandments reinstated before they were abolished. Last Sunday an old man, a broken-down Mormon preacher, one whom the Mormons have discarded for his dishonesty, spoke in favor of the Sunday. The house was full to hear him. The boys cheered by stamping on the floor, and the people became disgusted, and went out until only five were left. So the Lord made the wrath of man to praise him.
J. BARTLETT.
NEBRASKA
By Chas. L. Boyd
Eagle, April 4.—The way for the work at this place was opened by the missionary labors of a sister. Her nephew embraced the third angel’s message last summer. Being a man of “good repute,” an interest was soon awakened throughout the community. Reading matter was distributed, and ministerial help obtained. A part of the result was mentioned last week. Seventeen signed the covenant; others are keeping the Sabbath; still others, being disgusted with the course pursued by professed Christians, are “watching to see how this company holds out” before joining their number.
The M. E. minister has seen his flock fed present truth without offering protection; but now that our ministers are gone, he advertises to show the eternal burning of the wicked. I hope soon to return, and to see a strong church organized. For the present, meetings closed last Sunday evening, with a crowded house of attentive listeners. CHAS. L. BOYD.
KANSAS
By Smith Sharp
Centropolis, etc., April 2.—I closed my meetings near Centropolis, March 9. Many acknowledged the truth, but only two promised to obey it. However, there are four or five others keeping the Sabbath near them, and I hope in time for a small church.
March 12-18, I was at Richland. This church has become quite large, numbering over seventy members, and is scattered over considerable territory; hence it was thought that more officers were needed, and they were accordingly elected.
March 22-28, I was with the church at Leopa. The members there are not all making the progress that they should. A number of them are old Sabbath-keepers, and those that have come in lately have made more progress in laying aside tobacco, tea, coffee, etc., than the older members. Some interest is manifested among those not of our faith.
March 29 to April 1, I was at Hanover. On the Sabbath we had a good number of Sabbath-keepers together, five or six teams coming from eighteen to twenty-five miles. There is a good interest all around; pressing calls come in from places where expenses will be met. Five have promised to begin from this time to live Christian lives, and keep all the commandments. Others are interested. SMITH SHARP.
CHRISTIANA, NORWAY.
By John G. Matteson
I desire to acknowledge with thankfulness that we have received great encouragement from our brethren in America, and also substantial help. May the Lord bless you abundantly.
The cause is onward here. The number of Sabbath-keepers is increasing, as well as the number of interested hearers and readers. Twelve hundred copies of our little paper, The Signs, are sent out and read every week, besides those that are sent to America and Denmark, and besides all the tracts and books that have been circulated. We have sold tracts the two last weeks for Kr. 30 ($8).
This city is a central point for commerce on the sea in Northern Europe. The greatest source of income to Norway is the sea. Vessels go from here to almost all parts of the globe, and it is astonishing to see the mass of ships that now fill the harbors. Here is, consequently, an excellent place, with good opportunities to send the truth unto the ends of the earth.
We are connected with Sweden by railroads as well as by steamers; and she is calling for help. Near Söderhamn six brethren and sisters have commenced keeping the Sabbath, and meet for worship. They want instruction and baptism. Our prayers ascend to the Lord for old Sweden, that the commandments of God and the soon coming of our divine Lord may soon be proclaimed in power.
Sunday forenoon we hired the theater on Tivoli to answer Pastor Brun’s lecture against the Sabbath. We had to pay Kr. 50 ($13.32) for this hall. This expense was nearly covered by the audience. Between eight hundred and nine hundred were present. Hundreds more would have attended if it had been in the evening, but then we could not have the hall. This man is one of the most respected priests in town. His admissions are therefore of no small importance. We quote here seven remarkable admissions:—
1. The rest-day, Saturday, which God has instituted in the third (fourth) commandment, is really the Sabbath.
2. In the law, God has expressly commanded to keep holy the seventh day, or Saturday.
3. The holy word of God shall be our rule and guide in faith and practice.
4. The Sabbath commandment is expressly instituted by the law given on Sinai, and the third commandment is written with the other nine on the two tables of stone. By this we understand the great importance of the commandment, and that it stands on the same ground as all the rest of the commandments.
5. Our Lord Jesus did himself keep holy the Saturday; . . and he has honored the Sabbath by the very works which he performed on that day.
6. We do not find in all the New Testament any commandment which says that the Sunday must be kept holy, and the Saturday set aside as a day of rest.
7. The Lord has not ordained that the seventh day should be changed, and Sunday take its place.
His proof for Sunday was purely Catholic,—the authority of the church.