Earlier text: Sketches of Sabbath-School History: No. 4THE GENERAL MEETING AT ST. CHARLES MICH.
By George I. Butler
WE had the privilege of attending this interesting meeting. It was an occasion of profit to many. There was a good attendance from all parts of the district, and the neat and pleasant meeting-house was quite well filled. The Lord gave freedom in preaching his word. At first the meeting seemed to drag rather heavily, so far as any movement among the people was concerned, although the plain, close, and cutting truths applicable to our people at this time were being presented. We set before them the nearness of Christ’s coming, and spoke of the work to be done by our people from the text, “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” Light did not seem especially to break into the meeting until Sunday afternoon. While the missionary meeting was in progress, the people began to feel more and more deeply; and while attempting to impress upon them the necessity of going to work and laboring to shed abroad the light of truth, the Spirit of the Lord came into the meeting in a powerful manner. Many spoke who had not done so for a long time, even for years; some who had been disfellowshipped, and many who had long been in the dark, were weeping and confessing their sins, and the hearts of God’s people greatly rejoiced. We expected to return to Battle Creek on Monday morning because of the many things there which needed attention; but the congregation by a large vote requested us to remain over another day. On Monday our audience was still large, nearly all having remained. That morning, after a season of prayer and the discourse, a large number expressed by a rising vote their determination to give themselves wholly to God’s work. We then inquired if there were any who were at a great distance from God who now wished to seek him. About twenty manifested their desire by coming forward. They confessed their sins, and asked for the prayers of God’s people. It was an occasion of much interest. The Lord’s blessing came in, and all felt that it was a season of great profit. Among the two or three hundred present, there seemed to be a great interest to enter anew into the work of God by taking hold of the missionary work, obtaining subscriptions for our periodicals, etc. A large number voted that they would enter upon this work at once. Many confessed that they had, under discouragement, ceased to do anything in the cause, and in consequence had fallen into church trials and difficulties; but now they felt determined to set their faces the other way, and enter the work anew. All felt greatly benefited by the meeting. We know the Lord helped in the preaching, and we feel much encouraged to see how willing he is to aid us when we seek him. We believe the Lord is ready to bless his people. We must break through this spell that seems to hang over us, and go to work. Watch, pray, and work, are the Christian’s watchwords. SCRIPTURE QUESTIONS.
By W. H. Littlejohn
ANSWERS BY W. H. LITTLEJOHN.
M. L. M. D.: If you will obtain a copy of the Revised New Testament, and read in it from Heb. 3:7 to Heb. 4:13, you will have no trouble understanding Heb. 4:4. The perplexity which arises from the mention of a Sabbath rest in the fourth chapter of Hebrews, springs from the awkwardness of the translation in our King James version, and the fact that the word “Jesus” is used therein instead of “Joshua,” where the latter ought to be employed. By reading as suggested above, you will discover at once that Paul is exhorting his brethren not to fail of entering into the antitypical or final rest which God has prepared for his people, in the same manner that the Hebrews in the wilderness failed to enter into the land of Canaan—the type of God’s rest—while led by Joshua. He shows that their failure is attributable to unbelief, and intimates that unbelief in Christians would shut them out of God’s final rest. He instructs them that the rest that Joshua offered to the people must have been simply typical; since, long after this time, and after the people had entered the land of Canaan, the Psalmist was still offering them rest on condition that they hardened not their hearts. In verses 1 and 2 of chapter 4, the apostle makes it very clear that the rest that he is talking about is not simply a day of the week, but rather the rest which God has provided for his people in his everlasting kingdom. In verse 1 (A. V.) we read: “Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.” In verse 2 he continues: “For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them; but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” The gospel, or good news of salvation, which was preached to the Hebrews in the wilderness was the same, evidently, as that which was preached to Paul and his brethren. But the word which was preached to the Hebrews in the wilderness, was not rest on the first day of the week. They knew nothing about that. The rest to which they looked forward was that to be found in the kingdom of God, of which the rest in the land of Canaan was but a type. The rest, therefore, of which Paul alludes must also be the rest in the kingdom of God; else there would be no comparison between the experience of the Hebrews in the wilderness and that of the Christian in Paul’s life. The allusion to the seventh day of the week furnishes additional proof that the rest to which Paul alludes is not to be found in this world. It intimates that when we have entered into our rest, we shall cease from our labors, even as God ceased from his labors on the seventh day of the week after creating the world. But Christians never cease from their labors in this life, and therefore their rest must lie beyond its boundaries in the kingdom of God, of which God’s seventh day rest was an emblem. 307.—THE BENEDICTION AND LOCAL ELDERS.
C. E. B.: It would be irregular for a local elder to pronounce the benediction. I. L. T.: I understand that in John 3:3 the Saviour teaches that a man must be born again or experience the new birth in this life through the operation of the Spirit of God, or else he cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. See “Spirit of Prophecy,” Vol. II., p. 127, and onward. 309.—JOSEPHUS AND THE KING JAMES’S BIBLE.
C. T. S.: There is no foundation whatever for the silly story that the translators of the King James’s version of our Bible came within one vote of adopting the works of Flavius Josephus, the Jewish historian, as a part of the Scriptures. It originated either in the malice or ignorance of some infidel brain.139 A. H. M.: The expressions, “For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep,” found in 1 Cor. 11:30, relate to the sickness and death of many of the Corinthians who viewed these things as a consequence of a sacrilegious perversion of the Lord’s supper, which, according to the context, they turned into a sort of revival of drunkenness and gluttony. 311.—SATAN’S ANGELS COUNSELED TO REPENT.
W. C. M.: I harmonize the statements of which you speak, found on pages 20 and 22 of “Spirit of Prophecy,” in this way: On page 21 it is stated that the good angels counseled those angels who actively sympathized with Satan to return to their allegiance to God with a view to receive pardon for their offenses. It appears, however, from a statement made on page 22, that no such pardon could have been granted by the Father, as no provision had been made for angels in case that they should violate his law. There is really no necessary conflict between these declarations. Satan’s offense was the first of the kind, probably, that had ever occurred in the universe. The good angels therefore had no precedent upon which to base a judgment in the premises, and erred in supposing that their former associates had committed a sin which could be pardoned. Be aware that this explanation will be objected to by some, on the ground that it proceeds upon the hypothesis that it limits the knowledge of the angels. Such an objection, nevertheless, would not be well founded. It is susceptible of demonstration that angels, even though sinless, are liable to err. Were they not, they would possess at least one of the attributes of the Deity; i. e., perfect knowledge. That they do not possess such knowledge could be proved in a variety of ways. The illustration that I have room to give here will be drawn from the present condition of the fallen angels. Once they were holy and happy beings in heaven. Now they are wretched beyond description. This change is attributable to their rebellion in the past. Had they known the results of that rebellion they would never have been where they are. It must be true, consequently, that they were not infallible in judgment; but if they, when good angels, could make such a mistake as they made, then it is an established fact that other good angels at the time in question were liable to mistake. If we should ever be fortunate enough to enter heaven, I trust that we shall find that the distance between the angels and God himself is infinitely greater than we have ever conceived it to be. 312.—OLD MEN AND CHILDREN IN THE STREETS OF JERUSALEM.
J. C.: The prediction in Zech. 8:4, 5, that old men and children should be seen in the streets of Jerusalem, was fulfilled after the return from Babylonish captivity. You will notice by the date at the head of the chapter, B. C. 518, that Cyrus had already (B. C. 536) issued his decree for rebuilding of the Temple. B.: I think that it would be perfectly consistent for S. D. Adventists to set out orchards, although they should never eat of the fruit of trees thus planted, there is a strong probability that the time will come when many of them will be anxious to sell their homes. Should this be the case the presence of fruit trees on their premises, though not fully grown, would facilitate the sale of the property very materially. 314.—MILKING ON THE SABBATH DAY.
W. B.: There certainly can be no doubt in relation to the propriety of milking cows on Sabbath morning. Such an act would come under the head of deeds of mercy. In many cases cows would actually suffer were they allowed to go from Friday night until Saturday night without milking. 315.—THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM.
H. R.: The star of Bethlehem so-called, or the star that appeared to the wise men in the East and guided them to the infant Saviour, was nothing more nor less than the effulgence which emanated from a group of angels who were appointed to lead the Magi to Bethlehem. See “Spirit of Prophecy,” Vol. II., pp. 20, 21. LUTHER'S LOVE FOR THE BIBLE.
By A. S. Hutchins
When Luther was about twenty-four years of age, he discovered a Latin copy of the Bible lying in the library of the monastery. He eagerly laid hold of this neglected book, and persevered in studying it with so much diligence that he was able, in a short time, to refer with ease and promptitude to any particular passage.—Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, p. 760. In this work we find many points of interest respecting this great reformer. We are now reading Volume IV. of “Great Controversy,” in which we find a feast of valuable instruction respecting the life, devotion, and arduous labors of this man of God. Upon the Scriptures he based his faith. Here he stood firm as the mountains. When before the Diet of Worms, in answer to the question, “Will you or will you not retract?” his answer was: “Since your most serene majesty and princes require a simple answer, I will give it thus: Unless I shall be convinced by proofs from the Scriptures or by evident reasons (for I believe neither in popes nor counsels, since they have frequently erred and contradicted themselves), I cannot choose but adhere to the word of God, which has possession of my conscience. Nor can I possibly, nor will I ever, make any recantation, since it is neither safe nor honest to act contrary to conscience. Here I take my stand. I cannot do otherwise. God be my help! Amen.” Volume IV., from which we quote, is a work of great value. Dear brethren and sisters, let us read it, and use our influence to have others read it also. God speaks to us for our profit and salvation. A. S. HUTCHINS. Hide Behind the Cross: Lessons for Soul Winners
—In fishing for mountain trout, to be successful you must keep out of sight of the fish. Young man, to be a successful soul winner, you must keep out of sight. Hide behind the cross. “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me.” SERMONS WITH SLINGS IN THEM.
“DEACON PLAIN-SPEECH,” writing in the Christian Intelligencer, of the Gloryville church, says: “I don’t want to say anything against the ministers, and least of all, the men who have been giving Gloryville such a treat this year past, whom we have treated so shabbily. Preachers, as a class, are the most intelligent, pure-minded, and self-sacrificing people in the world. And we should be badly enough off without their help in getting through this sad and sinful world. And there’s only one thing, so far as I see, which they can’t do, and that is—preach. What do I mean? Why I mean just this: When David went out against Goliath, suppose he had walked meekly up to the big man, and laying one of the smooth stones in his hand had said, ‘My dear Goliath, oblige me by killing yourself with this,’ what, think you, would have happened to Israel? And what fun it would have been for the Philistines! Instead of that, we all know what the brave little fellow did—how he fixed his eye on the giant, and ran directly towards him; how he put his smooth stone into a sling, and whirling it around and around his head with all his might, let fly as if he meant it, and meant him! and the stone went straight to the armed monster’s vulnerable point, and sinking into his brain, laid him a lifeless heap along the ground. Now tell us whether these smooth little essays, which have been so courteously presented for our consideration, have been anything more than a polite laying the stone in our own hands instead of letting it drive straight for our hearts of sin. I am not objecting so much to the essays. God can make even the smooth stones of the brook achieve greater things than the spear of Saul and Jonathan. But what I want to see is the sling. I want to see the young warrior of the Lord come leaping along the plain with a light in his eye and a shout on his lip, his arm aloft, and his entire body and soul giving vim to the weapon he whirls and aims.”—Sel. WOODEN, OR GOLDEN.
By Alexander Clark
Some one asked Boniface, the martyr, whether it were lawful to give sacramental wine in a wooden cup. “Time was,” said he, “when there were wooden chalices and golden priests; but now there are golden chalices and wooden priests.” The remark has as keen significance this day as then. In that olden time there were officials in the church who attempted to gain men's confidence and devotion by outward circumstances, by pomp and profession, and bold ado about the altars. Yet when wooden chalices were introduced, and services were conducted in a more unpretentious way, the ministry lost none of its dignity. This calling is not designated by any uniformity of garb, or flashy furniture. The truth of the gospel is evermore better than its comeliest apparel. Poor and simple of address, many a minister of Christ Jesus stands in a lowly place, unseen and unknown by the masses, and yet the royal insignia of heaven is upon him, and angels move in ministries about his humble mission. The Master himself was poor. The chosen apostles wore the everyday garb of toil. A large salary and a towering spire, do not insure success or respect for the minister. He is esteemed, if really, for his works' sake, and for the cause he represents. Good livings do not always command good hearings and true believings. Downright piety is more than highest promotion. The cross was wooden; but the crown is gold.—Alexander Clark. THE MINISTER'S BOOKS AND COMPANIONS.
No man is more influenced by the books he reads and companions he chooses than the clergyman. It is not that any one desires to abridge his freedom, or dictate his personal habits, that causes Christians to express disappointment, or at least regret, when they find their pastor reveling in skeptical literature, or enjoying over-much chummy relations with men who have no love or reverence for sacred things. It is clear that no one can companion with such books or men without suffering therefrom. An illustration, running close to one Swift used for a different purpose, is well adapted here. The spider lives on insects and vermin, and spins out for himself a beautiful net to entrap the unwary, or spits out poison to make himself feared of mankind. The bee, on the other hand, goes to the sweet and beautiful things in nature for its food, and the world feeds on the honey that it leaves as its legacy. There is a wide difference in the fruit of men's labors as affected by the literary and social companionship.—Golden Rule. Worship Through Practical Brotherly Love
By T. E. St. John
—The worship of Almighty God that is embraced in the generous impulse by which you are induced to lighten some weary, heavy-laden heart, is just as real, and will do as much toward lifting the world into righteousness, as any hour spent in formal prayer or speech or song. The great question of life is not how many times you gather for praise and prayer through the week, but, How often does your heart thrill with, and your hand obey, the behests of a true brotherly love? The great test question of religious character is not whether you can say, “The will of God be done,” but whether it is in your heart to say, What can I do to help the man that is lower than I?—T. E. St. John. Count Your Present Blessings
—Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has many; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some. A SOLEMN CHARGE TO MINISTERS.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
In “Lectures on Preaching” by Bishop Simpson, there are some most excellent thoughts on the work of a minister. I copy a few extracts for the benefit of those who may not have the book. These words will bear reading and re-reading several times. On pp. 36, 37, he says:— “Lastly, pause a moment to think of your responsibility. You enter this holy brotherhood; you take upon you holy vows; you perform sacred functions. If you faithfully proclaim the Saviour; if you skillfully handle the two-edged sword; if you wisely pierce between the sinner and his sins; if you earnestly exhibit the Lord Jesus in all his beauty; if you live for this one work alone; if you study, pray, preach, and visit, to make all men like Christ, then your reward will be glorious. The promise is: ‘They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness, as the stars for ever and ever.’ Star may differ from star in glory, but all shall be radiant with the light of Jehovah’s face. “But should you handle the word of God deceitfully, should you, as ambassadors, forget God’s message, and tell your own words; should you forget the Majesty which sent you, and court the applause of the people to whom you are sent; should you woo their smiles or court their favor, neglecting the message which God bids you preach; should you, as watchmen, see the sword coming, and give no alarm; should you, as stewards, embezzle the goods which God gives you for others; should you, as builders, put in wood, hay, and stubble; should you as pastors, devour the flocks you are sent to feed; should you, as soldiers, fly from the field in day of battle; should your trumpet give an uncertain sound, and souls go down to ruin through your negligence and fault, who can measure the awful consequences?” “I shudder when I think of what is in the range of possibilities, and of the terrible inquisition which God shall make, when he shall ask, Where is your brother? and your ears are opened to hear the voice of his blood crying from the ground. Better would it be never to have been born; better would it be were millstones hanged around your necks, and you cast into the depths of the sea; better that rocks and mountains might fall upon you, to hide you from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb. But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.” These are solemn and earnest words. May we treasure them in our hearts. The inhabitants of Corsica, while adhering to the Roman Catholic religion, are really infidels in principle. They are lovers of pleasure, and spend much of their time in amusement, idleness, and drunkenness. During a few years past an effort has been made, at quite an expense, to introduce the gospel among the Corsicans, which has resulted in bringing out three small companies of Protestants, comprising in all perhaps fifty persons. The present truth has recently penetrated one of these companies, through Les Signes des Temps and our tracts, followed by my brother's labors. When I reached the island, Jan. 12, our friends there expressed great joy at having the privilege of hearing more about the truth. Bro. Comte, the elder of the church, had been away from them, on the other side of the island, about six weeks; and the circumstances under which they and Bro. C. were placed, at times led them to experience feelings of distress and discouragement. They really needed help. I spent over three weeks here, during which time we encountered rude opposition on the part of official preachers from Paris, who came on the ground to claim our friends and an exclusive right to the field. In their efforts against us they took the position that the law of ten commandments was abolished at the cross, which I showed was unscriptural, and contrary to the sayings and teachings of the patriarchs, the prophets, Jesus Christ, the apostles, and even of eminent men, such as Luther, Melancthon, Calvin, Wesley, Clarke, Barnes, Spurgeon, Thomas, etc. I held several interesting meetings here. We enjoyed a good season in celebrating the Lord's Supper. They have now a room arranged in which to hold their meetings; and they seem to be much encouraged to go onward with God's people, and to continue faithful unto the end. May God enable them to stand amid the opposition they may have to encounter, and to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus in all fidelity. A. C. BOURDEAU. SWAN LAKE.—During the past two weeks, from Jan. 30 to Feb. 17, the church here at Swan Lake has been favored with the labors of Eld. L. Johnson of Minnesota. We had some very interesting meetings and Bible-readings. The first meeting was held Sabbath evening. There was a good attendance, although the weather was very cold, and some had to come quite a long distance. The interest increased all the time, and the word of God was set forth with such power that many who had never before confessed the name of Jesus stood up, and with tears confessed that they had not done as they should, and by the help of God they determined to try to do better. The result was that thirteen united with the church, seven of whom were baptized, the other six having been baptized previously. The church here at Swan Lake now numbers eighty-five, and there is good reason to hope that still others will unite with us. Bro. Johnson’s visit has been a great blessing to the church here. May the Spirit of God continue to approve his work. Feb. 18. C. P. FREDERICKSON. SWAN LAKE.—At this place is a Danish church which now numbers eighty-five members. Six years ago they built a church 20x30 feet, but as it was too small they last fall built an addition to it twenty feet. I have labored there nearly three weeks, and the blessing of the Lord has rested upon us abundantly. The interest increased from the first, the Lord did wonderful things. I felt sorry that I could not stay another week. Held thirty meetings in all, and gave twenty-two discourses, mainly considering what the Lord requires of us at this time. I also visited these dear brethren at their homes, thirty families, and enjoyed many precious seasons, conversing about the truths and in seeking the Lord in prayer. I have worked to the utmost of my strength all the time, but the blessing of God made the work easy. These brethren pledge $30 to the tent fund. I am now at Sunny Side. CHICAGO.—Five weeks have now passed since we commenced meetings here. The Free Lutheran Conference, embracing the four leading societies in the Lutheran denomination, has now been in session141 five weeks. Some one hundred and ninety delegates and ministers have assembled to unite the four bodies in one. These meetings draw large congregations, and have a tendency to decrease the number in attendance at our meetings, although we seem to have the best of interest at this time. The sleet and snow have prevented some from being in regularly at our meetings, who we know would have been had the weather been more agreeable. Although we have been hindered, we have had good congregations except one or two evenings. Those who have attended are well tested in regard to doctrines we hold, concerning the second advent of Christ, the law of God, and the Sabbath and Sunday questions. Last Thursday evening nearly the whole house voted in favor of the seventh-day Sabbath and not one in favor of Sunday. Many are convinced that we have the truth, and that it is being lived out by those who receive eternal life at last, but for many the way is too straight and too narrow, and they draw back; “but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Six or seven have commenced to keep the Sabbath, and we hope for others as the fruit of our labor. We expect to continue our meetings two or three weeks longer. 15. J. F. Hanson. The Waldensian Valleys.— As stated in a previous report, I am holding meetings at Torre Pellice and St. John, both places being situated in these valleys. I speak ten times a week and have to this date given forty discourses. We held our first Sabbath meeting in our hall at Torre Pellice last Sabbath. More than twenty-five persons were in attendance, one-half of whom have promised to keep all of God’s commandments. Among these is the editor of a weekly political paper, who is the only publisher in Torre Pellice. He is now publishing an eight-page tract, in which he gives his reasons for embracing the ancient Sabbath. He will send this publication to all his subscribers, and to many others; he will also hand it out at our meeting to-night. We have the firm expectation of seeing a large church formed in these valleys. This will be accomplished by following up the interest here and colporting and evangelizing at other points. Thus better days seem to open up before the cause in long-neglected Italy. D. T. BOURDEAU. KANSAS
By Oscar Hill; Rue Hill
PAINTERHOOD, VALLEY CENTER, AND ELDORADO.—Feb. 7, 8 we were with the little company at Painterhood. The Lord came very near in our meetings. Three more started in the Christian life, and signed the covenant. We expect to organize a church here at our earliest opportunity. Feb. 14, 15 we spent with the brethren at Valley Center. We found all firm in the faith. Our meetings were good. We hope soon to organize a church here also. Feb. 17 we came to Eldorado, and began meetings on the 18th, a few miles from town. The attendance has been quite small, yet we hope the Lord will bless in the saving of some. Pray for us. Feb. 23. OSCAR AND RUE HILL. OHIO
By W. J. Stone; O. J. Mason
La Grange, Lorain Co.—Our meetings here have been in progress for nearly seven weeks and the interest is still good. Fifteen have commenced to keep the Sabbath, and a goodly number of others are deeply interested. Our Sabbath meetings, which are precious seasons to us all, are well attended, and we have been encouraged by the presence of brethren and sisters from the Spencer and Litchfield churches. The most of the new Sabbath-keepers have subscribed for the REVIEW. This we consider a good sign of their being in earnest. We hope that a large company may be raised up here who will elevate the standard of Christianity, and be a light in this community. Brethren, pray for us. We need the special aid of the Holy Spirit at this point in the meetings. W. J. Stone. Feb. 18. O. J. Mason. NEW HAMPSHIRE.
By J. B. GOODRICH
AMHERST.—I commenced meetings in this place Jan. 30. The Spirit of the Lord was present to aid, and confessions were made which brought the blessing of God in greater measure into our midst. One who had given up the Sabbath commenced to serve the Lord anew, and some new ones commenced to keep the Sabbath, while others still seem interested. The brethren and sisters are feeling much encouraged as they see some fruit of their labors in circulating reading matter. All the members of the church readily signed the tithing pledge; and some signed it who have not as yet united with the church. We thank the Lord for what has been done, and hope for still more to be accomplished. I was happy to meet with those here who embraced the third angel’s message over twenty-two years ago in Maine. May God help us all to be faithful, and to be among the overcomers is my prayer. J. B. GOODRICH. Feb. 23. HOPKINSVILLE AND GLASGOW.—From Feb. 22, I was with Bro. and Sr. Saxby at Hopkinsville. Much good has been accomplished here in the canvassing work. Over $1,300 worth of books have been sold by all the company. Bro. Brown had me at home for a few days while I was there. This is surely prepared for a tent meeting, and we consider it as one point for tent labor next summer. Spent one week at Glasgow. The brethren are holding on to the truth that were at the camp-meeting; and in the town and country about six adults have commenced to keep the Sabbath. I can report much more real interest there than at the time of the camp-meeting. We have some faithful members that are using the reading matter freely, and it is having effect. We see no reason why there should not be several more gathered in soon. Some have need to come a little nearer the Lord in zeal, health reform, promptness, and we trust they will. I am now in Alabama looking after the interests of the truth in this State. Courage is good. G. G. Rupert. Canvassing Virginia for Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation
By H. A. R.
TIMBERVILLE, FEB. 20.—Between this place and Staunton, I have for some time been canvassing for “Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation,” presenting the truth from house to house. I have now sold twenty copies of the above-named work. At Mt. Crawford I gave one discourse on the prophecies, showing that the book of Revelation is a companion part of the book of Daniel, and dwelling on the truth of interpretation. I also showed that the figurative language of the Bible must be interpreted by the Bible in general. The discourse was well received, and I think will open the way for the introduction of “Thoughts.” To me there are some features of encouragement in the introduction of this most valuable work; were it not for the present deplorable condition of our finances in this State, quite a number, I know, could be sold. Staunton, a city of seven or eight thousand inhabitants, is a good point for canvassing. I have already sold four copies there, and hope to canvass the place in the future. May God direct in sowing the precious seed. H. A. R. PENNSYLVANIA
By D. T. Fredericks
ROARING BRANCH.—Thursday, Jan. 28, I started for this place to visit the church and hold the quarterly meeting, which had been unavoidably delayed. This meeting was one of great interest. I joined the church at this time, making a company of thirty-three, all but one of whom had accepted the truth since our meetings commenced last summer. None of them had any knowledge of the manner of conducting meetings, and had never witnessed the ordinance of feet-washing. Some were doubtful and timid, but all joined in the exercise, and received such proof that God blesses his downtrodden grace that all doubts were removed and the church greatly strengthened. It was a solemn season. The subject of tithing was introduced and favorably received. About twenty-eight dollars was paid in, which was a good beginning, considering circumstances. Staid here a week, and held six meetings. The Spirit of the Lord was with us. The outside interest is increasing, and others are deciding to obey the truth. Some attended the late meeting who would not go to the tent last summer, and were interested. This interest should be followed up. The presence of Bro. Loughhead and family and Bro. Baker of Alba church, was an encouragement to all. Feb. 20. D. T. FREDERICKS. EDEN LOST AND RESTORED.
By L. D. Santee
Like a lovely island in a sea of glory
Stood the fair earth at first in radiant form;
Since then her crests with ages have grown hoary
Beneath the footsteps of unceasing storm. The morning stars sang in the glad creation;
No sin, no curse, no wrinkled brow of age;
Man, pure and holy, entered on probation,
And the future shone a fair, unsullied page. Green o’er the rivers were the tall trees swaying,
And bright o’er all God’s glorious sunshine played;
Glad forms of life through Eden fair were straying
’Mong fadeless flowers, fair trees, and sylvan glade. But the dread usurper gained his dark dominion,
And angels veiled their faces, turned away,
While the dove of joy and peace with drooping pinion
Left the sad world now stricken with decay. But I must tell you of creation’s crying,
Of earnest prayer ascending with the years,
Of earth so dreary, for redemption sighing,
And longing to be free from sin and tears. And of the prayers from aching heart of nature,
Of many sobbing cries from oceans vast,
Petitioning to God, the great Creator,
That he rebuke the tide of sin at last. Of rippling streams that ever onward flowing
Whisper their burden to the wrinkled sea;
Of lonely autumn winds on dark shores blowing,
Sighing for lands where death shall never be. Wrathful o’er stormy seas are dark clouds sailing,
And cursed the earth that once was pure and fair;
From every household comes the sound of wailing,
And the sad cry of anguish and despair. But God’s great love, and pity’s wondrous fountain
Deviseth means to save the doomed and lost;
And Christ, the Son, on Calvary’s rugged mountain
Died to regain dominion that was lost. And soon the King of kings will come in glory,
The skies shall tremble ’neath the mighty God;
Prophets and seers have told with joy the story,
How Christ for aye shall break the oppressor’s rod. And opened wide shall be the grave’s dark prison,
And broken be the iron bars of death,
And all the righteous ones to life be risen,
Clothed and immortal, with a free, glad breath. Merciful God, we leave us in thy keeping,
Preserve us pure from sin and all its harms;
Thus guarded by the eye that’s never sleeping,
Grant rest within the everlasting arms. Wisconsin Meetings at Loyal, Pittsville, and Grand Rapids
By H. R. Johnson
Loyal, Pittsville, and Grand Rapids.—Jan. 21, I came to Loyal, where I remained twelve days, speaking seventeen times. These meetings were quite well attended by those not of our faith, as well as by our own. We were much pleased to see the friendly feeling manifested toward us. The Spirit of God was present during these meetings, and the truth found a place in the hearts of his people. The second Sabbath was a good day for us. Some of the brethren from Maple Works were with us. The testimonies borne and the heartfelt confessions made were evidences of the good spirit that pervaded the meeting. One brother, who had been disfellowshiped, told of his recent victory over tobacco through the Lord’s help. It was a testimony just to the point. I trust others who may be troubled with this evil will learn a lesson from this brother by going to the Lord for victory. Two more have taken hold of the truth. Feb. 3, I met with the company at Pittsville and held three meetings. Though some of the brethren are quite poor, they are trying to learn the lesson that they may render to God the things that are his. We get greater blessings from God by giving the tithe of all, than by trying to bless ourselves with the same. Feb. 6, met with the church at Grand Rapids in their yearly meeting. Held six meetings. One lady said that the gospel was preached, and said, “The Bible does not read as it used to.” No, the present truth has an advent ring to it that thrills the whole soul. I left this company feeling that the meetings were profitable to all. Feb. 10, met with the church at Stevens’ Point and held one meeting. Friday evening met with Eld. Cady at Plainfield. Eld. Cady came the next morning and nine meetings were held. God blessed in the meetings, and aided by his Spirit in searching out the precious truths of his word. Another brother here has embraced the truth. May God give our people in the State some of the same spirit of anxiety for the prosperity of the cause, that those have at the head of the work. Feb. 18, began meetings at Spring Lake. Feb. 20. H. R. Johnson. Among the Churches.—At Adams Center I labored six days. The presence of the Lord seemed very near while speaking the words of life, and the people seemed much moved; but if they do not take up the neglected duties I tried earnestly to set before them, I fear they will realize still greater leanness of soul than heretofore. I hope the seed sown will spring up and bring forth fruit “answerable to amendment of life.” Friday evening, Jan. 2, I began meetings at Plainfield, and continued over first day. A deep spiritual feeling prevailed all through. Some have remarked to me, “It seems as though old times were coming back.” The words of Matt. 24:14 and 2 Pet. 3:10-14 were the ring of their testimonies. I left them “fervent in the spirit, serving the Lord.” Jan. 5 and 6 I was at Grand Rapids and held two meetings. Jan. 8 I began meetings in the evening with the Stevens Point church, and continued there over first day. It was a source of great strength to this church that a minister could meet with them at their quarterly meeting, which was held one week later than the usual time. Union and harmony prevail among the brethren, and they long for some help that they may become more educated and encouraged in the cause of truth. Let us give the Lord the glory; for it is he that doeth the work.