p. 88 | Review and Herald, Vol. 10, No. 11. (7/16/1857)

Earlier text: THE LAW OF THE CHRISTIAN SABBATH

Paul's Estimate of Heaven.

By Hannah Moore

In speaking of the glories of the eternal world, the rapture of the Apostle does not escape him as a sally of the imagination, as a thought awakened by the sudden glance of the object. He does not express himself at random from the sudden impulse of the moment, but in the sober tone of calculation. "I reckon," he says, like a man skilled in this spiritual arithmetic, "I reckon," after a due estimate of their comparative value, "that the sufferings of the present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us."

No man was ever so well qualified to make this estimate. Of the suffering of the present world, he had shared more largely than any man. He had heard the words of God, and seen the vision of the Almighty, and the result of this privileged experience was, that he desired to escape from the valley of tears; that he was impatient to recover the celestial vision, eager to perpetuate the momentary foretaste of the glorious immortality.—Hannah Moore.

The Work of Creation.

THE Creator has spoken, and the spangled stars look out from openings of deep unclouded blue; and as the day rises, and the planet of morning pales in the east, the broken cloudlets are transmitted from bronze into gold, and anon the gold becomes fire, and at length the glorious sun arises out of the seas, and enters on his course rejoicing. It is a brilliant day; the waves of a deeper and softer blue than before, dance and sparkle in the light; the earth, with little less to attract the gaze, has assumed a garb of brighter green; and the sun declines amid even richer glories than those which had encircled his rising, the moon appears full orbed in the east—to the human eye the second great luminary of the heavens—and climbs slowly to the zenith as night advances, shedding its mild radiance on land and sea. Again the day breaks; the prospect consists, as before, of land and ocean. There are great pine woods, red-covered swamps, wide plains, winding rivers, and broad lakes, and a bright sun shines over all. But the landscape derives its interest and novelty from a feature unmarked before. Gigantic birds stalk along the sands, or wade far into the waters in quest of their ichthyic food, while birds of lesser size float upon the lakes, or scream discordant in hovering flocks, thick as insects in the calm of a summer evening, over the narrow seas, or brighten with the sunlight gleam of their wings the thick woods. And ocean had its monsters; great "taninim" heave their huge bulk over its surface to inhale the life-sustaining air: and out of their nostrils goeth smoke, as out of a "seething pot or cauldron." Monstrous creatures, armed in massive scales, haunt the rivers, or scour the flat rank meadows; earth, air, and water are charged with animal life, and the sun sets on a busy scene, in which unerring instinct pursues unremittingly its few simple ends—the support and preservation of the individual, the propagation of species, and the protection and maintenance of their young. Again the night descends, for the fifth day has closed, and morning breaks on the sixth and last day of creation. Cattle and beasts of the field graze on the plains; the thick-skinned rhinoceros wallows in the marshes; the squat hippopotamus rustles amongst the reeds, or plunges sullenly into the river; great herds of elephants seek their food amid the herbage of the woods; while animals of a fiercer nature—the lion, the leopard, and the bear—harbor in the deep caves till the evening, or lie in wait for their prey amid tangled thickets, or beneath some broken bank.

At length, as the day wanes, and the shadows lengthen, man, the responsible lord of the creation, formed in God's own image, is introduced upon the scene, and the work of creation ceases forever upon the earth. The night falls once more upon the prospect, and there dawns yet another morrow, the morrow of God's rest:—that divine Sabbath in which there is no more creative labor, and which "blessed and sanctified" beyond all days that had gone before, has as its special object the moral elevation and final redemption of man. And over it no evening is represented in the record as falling, for its special work is not yet complete. Such seems to have been the sublime panorama of creation, exhibited in vision of old to

"The shepherd who first taught the chosen seed, In the beginning, how the heavens and earth Rose out of chaos;"

and, rightly understood, I know not a single scientific truth that militates against even the minutest or, least prominent of its details.—Hugh Miller's "Testimony of the Rocks."

A Striking Illustration.

An eloquent writer says: "The events of Providence appear to us very much like letters thrown into a post-bag, and this parcel then sent forth on its destination. The bundle of letters appears as if in inextricable confusion, and we wonder how the letters, parcels, documents, money, and periodicals, should ever reach their individual destination." But every letter has its special address inscribed upon it—the name and residence of the person for whom it is intended. And what different purposes do these letters fulfill!—what varied emotions do they excite! This declares that friends are in health and prosperity. That tells of disappointments, bereavements, or afflictions.

So we find a crowd of providential events huddled together, apparently in utter confusion; but each event, like each letter has a name inscribed upon it, and the proper direction. Each has a message to carry, and a purpose to fulfill. Some inspire hope and joy; others cause fear and sorrow. The same event brings gladness to one, grief to another. In the midst of apparent confusion, there reigns perfect order; and infinite wisdom directs all. What our Lord does we may not know now; but we shall hereafter. In the end we shall rejoice to acknowledge, that he did all things wisely and well.—St. Louis Presbyterian.

Lukewarmness

No state of soul is worse than lukewarmness. God cannot away with it: he says, "I would thou wert cold or hot."

Annihilation Dreadful.

By Editor

A FEW weeks since the following sentiment was uttered, in his pulpit, by HENRY WARD BEECHER—"I had rather go to hell—I was a going to say—than go to annihilation."

He was speaking of the consequences that would follow from one's being disconnected from God, and said, if such disconnection could be entire, "they would go to annihilation." Such a result, to his mind, was awful, as well it might be; and we were glad to find that Mr. Beecher was not of the opinion of some, who say, "To be annihilated is nothing." Persons of this last named sentiment must be persons of very small intellectual development; and seem so near a mere animal being as to be incapable of understanding the magnitude of the glory and enjoyment of an endless life; to such sensualists it may be fortunate that God has suffered their minds, hitherto, to be blinded as to what is the real "wages of sin:" they may need the dread of sensual sufferings, with the idea that such sufferings are to be eternal, to restrain them from sin. Such a doctrine might have been "winked at" in the "times of ignorance" which are passed, when men have been shut up in heathenish darkness, and enveloped by Popish superstition. But now that the system of keeping men in ignorance is passing away, and men will read and think for themselves, the true Bible doctrine of death as "the wages of sin," needs to be brought out and enforced, if we would save men from real infidelity: for thinking men cannot much longer be made to believe in endless misery; hence, if it is still insisted that the Bible teaches such doctrine, they must and will reject that book. If such is not the result with them, it will be strange indeed.

We hope Mr. Beecher may yet see, that such an "entire disconnection from God," as he seemed to think impossible, may take place; and then the awful annihilation may be, and will be, the fate of the sinner. Such a result commends itself, to the mind of an intelligent man, as just and right, if the sinner persists in forsaking God "the fountain of living waters," &c. Jer. ii, 13.—Bible Examiner.

BOOKS.

By James White

MILLER's Nineteen Lectures, and Litch's two volumes of Prophetic Expositions will be sent by mail, and postage paid for $1,00.

These are old Advent works, containing a great amount of truth; also some things which time and the light of present truth, have shown to be incorrect.

The "Sanctuary and 2300 days" by J. N. Andrews, not all sold. We were happy to find several hundred copies of this excellent work in New England not sold, which will supply calls till we can republish it.

Also we have collected a few hundred copies of "Refutation of the claims of Sunday-keeping," &c.

English Bibles. We have a few copies, and intend to get a large quantity soon, which we can send by mail, at the risk of purchasers, postage paid, for from $1,00 to $3,00. Particulars hereafter.

Review Bound in Board. Vols. 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, in one Book, $3,00. Vols. 7, 8 and 9, in one Book, $2,00.

Charts.

We have recently received from Bro. Otis Nichols of Dorchester, Mass., the Publisher, a dozen Charts which we will send by mail without rollers, or by express with rollers for $2,00.

JAMES WHITE.

Receipts.

By Editor

Annexed to each receipt in the following list, is the Volume and Number of the "Review and Herald" to which the money receipted pays. If money for the paper is not in due time acknowledged, immediate notice of the omission should then be given.

FOR REVIEW AND HERALD.

D. Robbins 2,00,x,1. J. M. Pettingill 1,00,xi,1. A friend (for A. Munson) 1,00,x,10. L. Griswold 1,00,xi,1. S. Warner 1,00,xi,1. E. Gridley 1,00,xi,1. T. E. Thorp 1,00,x,20. J. M. Santee 1,00,xi,1. Thos. Sprague 1,00,xi,1. C. Bigelow 2,00,xii,1. S. Howland (2 copies) 2,00,xi,1. D. Tucker 1,00,xi,1. J. Ayers 3,00,xii,1. H. G. Buck 2,00,xi,1. H. Everts 1,00,xi,14. S. R. Nichols 1,00,xi,1.

FOR MICH TENT. L. Kellogg $3. E. Walworth $2. S. Cook $1,50. A. wells $1,50.

Books for Sale at this Office.

By Editor

The price set to each publication includes both the price of the book, and the postage, when sent by Mail.

Hymns for those who keep the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus. This Book contains 352 Pages, 430 Hymns, and 76 pieces of Music. Price, 60 cents.—In Morocco, 65 cents.

Bible Tracts Bound in Two Volumes. These Volumes are of about 400 pages each, and embrace nearly all of our published Tracts. We are happy to offer to our friends the main grounds of our faith in a style so acceptable.—Price, 50 cents each.

Sabbath Tracts, Nos. 1, 2, 3 & 4. This work presents a condensed view of the entire Sabbath question.—184 pages. Price 15 cents.

The Three Angels of Rev. xiv, 6-12, particularly the Third Angel's Message, and the Two-horned Beast. This work maintains the fulfillment of Prophecy in the past Advent movement, and is of great importance in these times of apostasy and peril.—148 pages.—Price 12½ cents.

Bible Student's Assistant. This is the title of a work of 36 pp. It has been prepared with much care, and considerable expense, and can be had at this Office for $4,00 per 100, or if sent by mail, post paid, 6 cents a copy.

A Brief Exposition of Daniel ii, vii, viii, ix, also the 2300 Days and the Sanctuary.—This is the title of a Work just published, it being our old Work on the Four Universal Monarchies of Daniel, &c, somewhat improved. Price, post-paid, 10 cts.

The Sanctuary and 2300 days by J. N. A.—Price 12½ cents.

A Refutation of the claims of Sunday-keeping to Divine Authority; also, the History of the Sabbath.—Price, 6 cents.

The Atonement. This work opens a wide field of Bible truth, and will be found a valuable assistant in the study of the great theme on which it treats.—196 pp.—18 cents.

Man not Immortal: the only Shield against the Seductions of Modern Spiritualism. We commend this work on the Immortality question, as an able discussion of the subject.—148 pp.—12½ cents.

An Examination of the Scripture Testimony concerning Man's present condition, and his future Reward or Punishment. In this work we consider all objections to the mortality of man and the death of the wicked fairly and fully met. Price 18 cents.

Review of Crozier. This work is a faithful review of the No-Sabbath doctrine as set forth in the Advent Harbinger by O. R. L. Crozier. It should be placed in the hands of those who are exposed to that heresy.—Price 6 cents.

The Bible Class. This work contains 52 Lessons on the Law of God and the Faith of Jesus, with questions. It is peculiarly adapted to the wants of those of every age who are unacquainted with our views of these subjects, especially the young.—Bound 25 cents. Paper covers, 18 cents.

The 2300 Days and Sanctuary by "U. S."—Price 5 cents.

Liberal discount on these works where $5 worth is taken.

Address URIAH SMITH, Battle Creek, Mich.

EASTERN TOUR.

By James White

SABBATH, June 20th, we met with the brethren of Northern New York in the house of prayer, at Buck's Bridge. The comfortable place of worship seemed inviting. It is an easy place to speak. It is a very plain but comfortable place of worship. The house was nearly filled with Sabbath-keepers. We spoke to them on the Sabbath, but with little freedom. A prostrating influence has been with this people, which caused the hearts of the dear people of God to be sad. We are informed that the testimony to the Laodiceans did a good work for this people, and the hearts of the brethren were much cheered. But at this time a misguided soul came from Vermont among them, professing to be especially taught of the Lord. The majority of the brethren decided that this person was not sent of the Lord. A few were undecided, and some sympathized. In this condition the church had suffered about four months. Here was sufficient cause for the sadness of the church, and lack of freedom.

On First-day the house was filled, and in giving the reasons of our faith, we enjoyed freedom. Before we parted with the brethren in N. Y., they assisted this person home, became united, and the Lord manifested his great goodness, and unbounded mercy in our midst. Praise his name.

The 27th and 28th, we joined brethren Rhodes, and Wheeler, Cottrell, and Ingraham at the General Tent-meeting at Parish, N. Y. There was quite a collection of brethren from the surrounding country. Most of the brethren in that region have been passing through deep trials, and came to the meeting much discouraged. The spirits of many present were depressed, and our meetings on Sabbath moved heavily. On First-day there was liberty in preaching to the unbelieving multitude.

We now feel confident that a spirit of fault-finding has been destroying the spiritual life of the people of God in Central N. Y. It has been accusations and church trials over and over, until many seem to have forgotten how to worship God in spirit and in truth. Individuals have brought their charges against brethren, and have picked at straws, who would have done better in attending to the condition of their own unsanctified hearts—persons who have no business with the work of God, only to watch themselves. These persons have been heard, and tedious church trials have been suffered which have driven the spirit of the present truth almost out of the land. "Feed my sheep," "Feed my lambs," said Jesus Christ to Peter. We think that modern Peters, and modern Johns, will help the church more in dealing out food, than in all the tinkering of useless church trials. The Lord bless you dear brethren, it is food, not all physic that the flock needs. And if those who have more than they can do to help themselves in the road, take hold of the lines to guide the church, tell them to let them alone. Point, O point the church to the foot-steps of the great Shepherd, and as you lead off, tell the people of God to follow him, to follow Christ.

July 4th and 5th, we were with the Tent in Ulysses, Penn. Our meeting here was much like the others, only more interest was manifested by the large audience to hear on First-day. We found our Bro. Ingraham poor, and depending chiefly on the labor of his hands to support his family. True the brethren in Penn. are not wealthy, but they can support two such preachers and not feel it. They have had the faithful labors of our dear brother, but have been unfaithful as to their duty to him, till the Lord is removing him to another field. Such men as Bro. Ingraham, at such a time as this, must be where their whole being may be engaged in the work. We would say to such preaching brethren, Fly to the rescue of precious souls, and when you want means, let us know it, and we will divide to the last with you.

We reached home the 9th. Bro. Ingraham was to fill our appointment in Ohio on his way west. Sabbath the 11th we met with the dear people of God in this place, who seem to be prospering, and enjoyed a precious season. During the last eight weeks we have traveled about 2400 miles, have preached generally four times each week, have transacted business amounting to between three and four thousand dollars, and return improved in health and cheered in spirits. Had it not been the Lord who was on our side when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us up quick. Praise his dear name for all he has done for us. Praise his holy name. Some poor souls have been waiting and watching, and hoping that the REVIEW would go down, and that we should die. True we may fall suddenly, if the Lord removes his sustaining hand. But as one said in Wisconsin, that he was giving up all hopes of the REVIEW going down, so they may also despair of our dying at present.

We would return to the Lord our sincere thanks for his preserving mercy and sustaining power, and thank his dear people who labored to make us happy while with them, and helped us from place to place after a godly sort. J. W.

TENT MEETINGS.

PROVIDENCE permitting, we will commence Tent meetings in Genesee Grove, Whiteside Co. Ills. July 25th, and continue as long as may be thought best.

This meeting will be about ten miles north of Round Grove.

J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH. E. EVERTS. J. HART.

P. S. Brn. who wish Tent meetings in Ills., Wis., or Iowa may send in requests to us at Round Grove Ills.

J. N. L. E. E. J. H.

Will Brn. Sperry, Hutchins and Philips inform us of their plans for the West, without delay.

JAMES WHITE.

Pledges for Power Press.

By Editor

D. R. Palmer, (pd.) $100.00. J. Byington, (pd.) 100.00. Wm. Peabody, (pd.) 100.00. E. Aldrich, (pd.) 100.00. Geo. T. Lay, (pd.) 100.00. Church in Jackson, O., (pd.) 100.00. E. Wilbur, (pd.) 100.00. A. B. Pearsall, (pd.) 100.00. H. Hilliard & H. Crosbie, (pd.) 100.00. E. Everts, (pd.) 100.00. H. Bingham, (pd.) 100.00. Geo. Leighton, (pd.) 100.00. H. Childs, (pd. $75.) 100.00. R. Godsmark, (pd. 50.) 100.00. A. L. Burwell, (pd. 50.) 100.00. S. Benson, (pd.) 50.00. L. M. J., 100.00. Jas. Stiles, 100.00. S. Rumery, 100.00. C. G. Cramer, 100.00.

Power Press.

By James White

We have just received information that the Adams Power Press was forwarded from Boston July 8th. The probable expense of Press, &c., transportation, and putting it in running order, will be $1900.00. Of this sum only $1425.00 has yet been paid in. We have obtained means of brethren to pay for the Press and shall obtain more if necessary; but it would be relief to us if a portion at least of what is pledged should be sent in immediately.

Now is the time for the $50, and $25, friends to come on, to make up the sum necessary to get also a steam engine. This we must have, and shall obtain as soon as the means comes in. It will require about $2400.00 to get the Press running by steam. JAMES WHITE.