Earlier text: WHEN WILL THE NATIONS BE DASHED IN PIECES?The Object of This Paper
By Editor
WHAT is the object of this paper? It has a specific object, and we desire our readers, as well as ourselves, to keep it continually in view. It is not to furnish amusing and frivolous matter to the careless and leisure reader; for the present day abounds in publications which cater to a morbid and vitiated taste. It is not to be a medium for the general news of the times, domestic or foreign; for there are hundreds of periodicals in the land, which give special attention to this department. It is not to devote itself to any exposition of political principles, or defense of political parties; for we have no interest in these, only so far as they bring about revolutions in fulfillment of prophecy. But our object is to lay before the people momentous and solemn truths, which are especially applicable to the present time and the immediate future, and to the exposition of which, there is no other periodical devoted. It is to acquaint men with those truths which are essential to their eternal salvation; to draw light from the sure word of God, and learn his plan and purposes concerning this earth and its inhabitants, as revealed therein. It is to cheer and comfort the believing, to arouse the slumbering, reclaim the backsliding, and awaken the sinner; and to point them all to those fearful scenes, now imminent, in which this world will end its course of suffering and woe. We desire to learn what the plain Word teaches, uninfluenced by the traditions of the times, or the glosses of commentators. To do this we let the Bible be its own interpreter; for we believe that it is as reasonable as any other book, and means what it says. In all ages the people of God have had a specific work; for there has been present truth in every age; and truth which is especially applicable to any age, is imperative on that age; and it is imperative on Christ's ambassadors to make it known to the world. To neglect to do this, is to be unfaithful to the charge committed by Christ to his ministers. What therefore is the truth especially applicable to this time? In other words, What is present truth? shall be continually our inquiry. In confining ourselves to this, we may be thought by some exclusive; but it would not be reasonable to load our columns, for instance, with Infidelity, or German Neology, and then spend our time in its refutation. What is the picture that presents itself before us? The end of all things swiftly approaching; the last message of mercy going forth; the work of salvation closing, and the world asleep, and unconscious of their danger. Like a mountaineer with a fearful avalanche descending upon him, or like a man asleep in a burning building, or like a helpless mariner in a sinking ship—such is the condition of the wicked at the present moment: the wrath of God, like a mighty avalanche, is about to burst upon them in all its fury; while sin in all its forms, Infidelity and Spiritualism, are scouring land and sea, blinding and deceiving souls. Shall we not therefore be zealous to proclaim the truth? Shall we, when we behold the true light that shines from the page of prophecy, hide that light under a bushel? All things are calling upon us loudly for activity; bold, fervent, unceasing. The field before us is wide, the work great, and we must not be idle if we would clear our skirts from the blood of souls. That we are not right in our views of the future and the coming of the Son of man, yet remains to be proved; and there would be more chance for skepticism were it not that all the great events of the present day, as fulfillments of prophecy, unite in bearing testimony to the fact that this present world draweth to a close. Now it certainly cannot do any one any hurt to inquire if these things are so. Let them remember that they are events in which they have a personal interest, and if they are about to burst upon us it is important that we know it, and be prepared to meet them. We therefore invite every one whose eye may rest upon this page, to examine these subjects carefully. Do it without prejudice. Do it in view of your eternal interests. We do not ask you to take our word for anything, but to inquire, Does the word of God teach it? If it does, as honest human beings in the sight of heaven, you are bound to give it your candid and serious attention. We shall endeavor to throw all possible light upon these subjects through the columns of the REVIEW. It has been, and still shall be, our object to keep these great truths, and the evidences on which they rest, continually before the people; and no one can say that this object is not good, until it shall be shown that we are wrong in our applications of scripture. Friends and brethren, we look to you for sympathy, and co-operation in our labors. Shall we have it? Remember the REVIEW in your prayers—that it may never lose sight of its mission; that it may not waste its energies upon "foolish questions" and "contentions" which are "unprofitable and vain;" [Titus iii, 9;] but that the Spirit of truth and wisdom may rest upon all who may write for its columns; that it may possess an increasing interest and spiritual food for the household of faith; that the Spirit of Christ may be breathed through all its teachings; and that it may be an instrument of much good in preparing souls to stand in the battle of the day of the Lord. We take the liberty to publish a large portion of our correspondence, on account of the interest which this department possesses for a great portion of our readers. It is often cheering and encouraging to those who are situated far from those of like precious faith, to learn that there are many others in a similar situation, having a similar experience in the same cause. To this end we solicit short and spirited articles and epistles, from our brethren and sisters, breathing a spirit of holiness, consecration, and love of truth, and containing a word of consolation and encouragement for those who truly feel themselves pilgrims and strangers in this fallen world. Says the Prophet, [Mal. iii, 16,] “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him, for them that feared the Lord and that thought upon his name.” We believe this scripture has a chronological application to the present time. For (1) it is at a time when people are beginning to say that it is vain to serve God, and profitless to keep his ordinances; when the proud are called happy, and the workers of wickedness are set up. Verses 14, 15. (2) It is just before the day in which the Lord makes up his jewels—margin, his “special treasure,” his peculiar people, the 144000. Rev. xiv, 1-6. (3) It is at a time when they that fear the Lord and think upon his name are to be spared. Verse 17. Spared from what? From the righteous judgments of God upon a rebellious world, [Rev. xiv, 9-12; xv, 1,] and from destruction and death; for we which are alive and remain shall be changed. 1 Cor. xv, 51, 52; 1 Thess. iv, 17. The time is fast approaching when it will be a distinguishing virtue to fear God and think upon his name; for sin and infidelity are waxing bold; and multitudes are making wholesale denials of the word of God under the pretended modern revelations of science, and the masses are turning blindly from the living oracles of God, to the supposed communications from the dead. Isa. viii, 19, 20. Then according to the admonition of the apostle Paul, let us exhort one another, “and so much the more as we see5 the day approaching.” As the coming of the day of the Lord and the Son of man, is the all-absorbing event before us, so let it be the all-absorbing topic of our conversation, and our thoughts, and the event in reference to which we may live and act. May He in whose sight even the hairs of our head are all numbered, protect the remnant from the perils before them; and may the fire of his love never go out upon the altar of our hearts. We have on file several interesting communications for which we have not room in this number. At a missionary meeting among the negroes in the West Indies, it is related, these three resolutions were adopted: - We will give something.
- We will each give according to our ability.
- We will all give willingly.
At the close of the meeting a leading negro took his seat at the table, with pen and ink, to put down what each came to contribute. Many advanced to the table and handed in their contributions, some more and some less. Among the contributors was an old negro, who was very rich, almost as rich as all the rest united. He threw down a small silver coin. "Take dat back again," said the chairman of the meeting; "dat may be 'cordin to de fust resolution, but not 'cordin to de second." The rich man accordingly took it up and hobbled back to his seat, much enraged. One after another, came foward, and all giving more than himself, he was ashamed, and again threw a piece of money on the table, saying, "Dar take dat!" It was a valuable piece of gold, but given so ill-temperedly, that the chairman answered, "No, sir, dat don't do! Dat may be 'cordin to de fust and second resolutions, but not 'cordin to de third." He was obliged to take it up again. Still angry with himself, and all the rest he sat along time, until nearly all were gone, and then advanced to the table, and, with a smile on his countenance, laid a large sum of money on the table. "Dar now, berry well," said the presiding negro, "dat will do, dat am 'cordin to all de resolutions." The Blessings of Christian Religion
A set of miserable and unthinking creatures treat with negligence, and sometimes with contempt, the religion of Jesus, not considering that they are indebted to it for all the good things which they so ungratefully enjoy.—Mosheim. THE AGE TO COME.
By James White
WE wish to call attention to the article in this No. on 1 Cor. xv, 23-28. We are now satisfied that the positions taken by the writer are correct. This article should be read with care in connection with the one on the Melchisedee priesthood in the No. for March 20th. As we have recently been led to examine this subject more carefully than ever before, the following inquiries have arisen, with their answers:— 1. What is meant by "the end," mentioned in verse 24? Is it the end of Christ's reign on David's throne? No; for the Prophet has said, "Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no END; upon the throne of David and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth forever." Isa. ix, 7. Said the angel, "The Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David, and he shall rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there shall be no end." Luke i, 33. But does it not apply to the end of the 1000 years? The fact that neither the 1000 years, nor the second resurrection, are mentioned in the connection forbids such an application. The end mentioned in this verse must refer to "the end" so often spoken of by Prophets, Apostles and Jesus, which is in connection with the Second Advent and the resurrection of those who are Christ's at his coming. 2. When will the last enemy, death, be destroyed? Does this have reference to the unjust at the end of the 1000 years? It does not. Instead of death there being destroyed, the unjust are destroyed, and are left eternally under the dominion of death. The wicked are under the dominion of death during the 1000 years; and at its close they are raised, but placed back again by the second death. Then what is destroyed? Is it death in their case? By no means. Death which held them for 1000 years, will hold them eternally. We say, then, that the destruction of death refers to the just, at the second coming of Christ. The saints of all ages have fallen by death. But says the True Witness, "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and behold, I am alive forevermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell [the grave] and of death." He is coming in glory; and at his coming he will unlock the grave, and break death's fetters off from every saint; and clothed with immortality they will come forth to enjoy Eternal Life. Death will never hold dominion over them again. In their case death is destroyed, and that, too, at the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. These are clear points, and have a special bearing on the subject, which should be carefully considered by every reader of the REVIEW. J. W. THE USE OF TOBACCO A SIN AGAINST GOD.
By John Nevins Andrews
"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. Let no man deceive himself." 1 Cor. iii, 16-18. Let every person who uses that filthy poison, tobacco, carefully ponder these words of inspiration. That the use of this weed renders a person filthy and disagreeable is too manifest to be denied. That tobacco is a stimulant, producing in many cases partial intoxication, is also an undoubted fact. That it is an active poison, seriously deranging the systems of those who use it, admits of the clearest proof. What right has any man to destroy his own nervous system and cut short his days by the habitual use of poison? What excuse can a man offer to God for intoxicating himself with tobacco? Is such a person able to pray without ceasing? What are the religious exercises of a man worth, who is under the influence of tobacco or opium? Every person who has observed such things must be aware that no reliance can be placed upon them. Is a man fit to join in the solemn worship of God when stimulated with tobacco? Let conscience answer. Brethren, let us all say with Paul in 2 Cor. vii, 1, "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." Do not think this a matter of light importance. Carefully read again the text at the head of this article. If a Christian, you are a temple of the Holy Spirit. If you defile this temple, God will destroy you. Now answer before God, Would not the use of alcohol, opium or tobacco, defile the temple of God? And of the three, is not tobacco the most filthy, both in itself and in its use? Remember that solemn word of admonition which the Apostle affixes: "Let no man deceive himself." Read also the following: "They also that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." Gal. v, 24. Is not the appetite for tobacco a lust as much as the thirst for alcohol or the appetite for opium? Have you crucified this lust? If not, according to these words of Paul, do you belong to Christ? Again, will you read Titus ii, 11, 12, 13. "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." Then the grace of God which has brought salvation to us each, has taught us to deny ourselves of worldly lusts. Will you name anything that will fall under this head with greater propriety than tobacco? It is an unnatural appetite; for nine persons in ten abhor the weed until they have broken down that barrier which the God of nature has erected against its use. Thus it is less excusable than many other sins which men commit. Those who are looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord may consider themselves specially addressed in these words of Paul. Do you indulge in this inexcusable worldly lust? If so let me beg you to consider that you cannot thus be presented without spot or wrinkle or fault before God. Eph. v, 27; Rev. xiv, 5. Deceive not yourself. If you would stand with the Lamb on mount Zion, you must cleanse yourself from all filthiness of flesh and spirit, and perfect holiness in the fear of God. J. N. A. THE REVIEW NOT RECEIVED.
By Editor
QUITE a number of complaints have come in to us of late of the non-reception of our paper. This we very much regret. It is certainly our desire that all our subscribers may receive the REVIEW promptly in its weekly visits; and we do all in our power to secure this object. But when the papers are placed in the mail they are beyond our control. When we have deposited them in the Post Office, well directed, we can do no more. We notice the same complaint in regard to other papers. The Golden Rule has a short article on the same subject. We would commend the same advice to our friends in reference to the REVIEW. It says:— "Friends, how is this? Will you call again at your Post Office and inquire especially for the Golden Rule? "Some postmasters fail to deliver, unless every thing, letters, pamphlets, or papers are distinctly specified. We called at one post office where a terrible outcry of non-reception had rung in our ears for months; on calling at the place we found heaps of Golden Rules packed away in that post-office, on which the names of each subscriber were well written! The post-master excused his remissness by saying, 'the subscribers, in calling, had not distinctly specified the Golden Rule.'" It becomes our painful duty to record the death of our beloved Bro. William M. Smith, son of Cyrenius and Louisa Smith, who fell asleep in Jesus at his father's house in Battle Creek, Michigan, March 16th, 1856, aged 27 years. His disease was inflammation of the lungs. During his sickness of only about eleven days, he bore his affliction with patience, manifesting the greatest resignation to the will of God. With carefulness he reviewed his past life, and confessed what he regarded as imperfections in his christian course. He dedicated himself anew to God, covenanting to live more to his glory, should he be raised up. Brethren visited his sick room, with whom he united in prayer, and such seasons were generally very refreshing, especially to Bro. William, who would raise his voice in praise to God. Many prayers were offered for his recovery, with fervency and freedom, yet it pleased God that our dear brother should rest with the number of whom it is written, "Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth," &c. Bro. William professed faith in Christ in 1843, and from that time was among the most devoted believers in the soon coming of Christ. He embraced the Bible Sabbath, Aug., 1849, when Bro. J. Bates first visited the State, and has ever manifested a worthy zeal in acting his part in the advancement of the cause of truth. When the Tent enterprise was started in this State, he gave his services as Tent Master the first season. During the past Winter, as his business led him to travel, he seemed more devoted than usual, and more faithful in conversation with those he met, to whom he generally introduced some portion of Bible truth. Among his last efforts in behalf of the cause was the first suggestion of the plan to raise the Church Book Fund, and writing out of the Circular used for the object. Though he rests from his labors, his works follow him. His believing parents, brothers and sisters, have met with a great loss, so has the Church; but they sorrow not as those who are without hope. Bright hope lights up the future, and disperses the darkness and gloom which now hangs over the grave of the just. Jesus the Life-giver is quickly coming, when Bro. William, so reluctantly and sadly borne to the grave, will be waked from his peaceful slumbers by the voice of the Son of God, and will arise with immortality. Then will those separated here by death meet again, and join with the saints of all ages in the shout of victory over death and the grave. The unexpected sickness and death of our dear brother is indeed a warning to the Church to ever live in readiness for the events of Providence. One apparently in perfect health, and in the strength of manhood has suddenly fallen in our midst. We cannot close our remarks, already lengthy, without appealing to the young, especially those who were acquainted with Bro. William. You have seen a young man of talent, beloved of all that knew him, turn his feet in the path to virtue, holiness and heaven, instead of following the vain pleasures of earth. Should you stand by his grave, and look back upon his life as he has been ripening for immortality, you could but admire his choice. But the sun that shines on his peaceful grave may soon shine on yours; and would the same hope of future life that sheds its glory around his grave light up yours? While life and hope remain, be admonished by his godly life and sudden death. You are now separated, but that separation must not be eternal. Seek Christ as he sought at the age of fourteen, and follow Christ as he followed, and in the resurrection morn you will meet, freed from the ills of this mortal life, to share eternal joys. J. W. A Word to the Preachers.
By Jno. Martin
I OFTEN think of God's servants who wear themselves out with labors and journeys, renewing their labors again and again; who meet with trials and opposition wherever they go, and are deprived of the company of their families at home. I can say to such, You shall have my prayers. Toil on a little longer and Jesus will give you a crown of never-fading glory, and a home free from cares and sorrows, and you shall rejoice in his kingdom forevermore. Jno. Martin.
Steuben Co., N. Y. BRO. SMITH:—I feel to praise the Lord that he has opened my eyes in these last days to let me see, and not only me, but my companion and daughter the truth of the Third Angel's Message. The Lord is calling out a people to stand before him at his coming; and the dragon is wroth with them for keeping the Commandments and having the Faith of Jesus; but Satan with all his hosts cannot hinder them, for Christ is their leader and Israel will surely prevail. They are going forward in the strength of the Lord. He is the hope of his people, and they will come off conquerors through him who has died to redeem them and is alive forevermore. We feel determined to press our way on towards the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. We have come out before the world and profess to keep all the Commandments of God, and the Testimony of Jesus—the law and the gospel. It is a perfect work: it will prepare a people to enter in through the gates into the city. I feel to praise the Lord for what he is doing for his people in this place. There are six of us, Sabbath-keepers here. Five commenced to keep the Sabbath last Fall; we have Bro. Daniels to preach to us occasionally. Bro. Barr was with us a few days in the Winter. S. H. BROWN.
Litchfield Co., Ct. Spiritual Gifts in the Church
By W. H. BRIGHAM
BRO. SMITH:—I want to say that by the blessing of God the church in this place is in unison with the body of those who keep God's holy Commandments, and are looking for the gifts according to the promise of our Lord in Luke xxiv, 49; Mark xvi, 17, 18. "And these signs shall follow them that believe: in my name shall they cast out devils, and shall speak with new tongues," &c. This, it appears, is what God has promised. Says one, This was for the apostles; but the Word says that these signs shall follow them that believe, and we see not only the apostles sharing in the blessing, but the church also. Acts ii, 1-4. And when Peter was sent to the house of Cornelius, the Holy Ghost was given. Acts x, 45. And in chapter xi, 17, Peter says, "God gave them the like gift as he7 did unto us who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ." It is evident that the Holy Ghost was not given because Peter preached, but because they believed on the name of Jesus. And Peter farther testifies in Acts ii, 38, 39, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; for the promise is unto you, and to your children. Paul says, Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 1 Cor. xiv, 1; 1 Thess. v, 20. He says, Despise not prophesying, &c. That those gifts are for the church of Christ, the Bible plainly teaches; not for a new rule of faith, but for edification and exhortation and for comfort. 1 Cor. xiv, 3. The church in this place has a warm sympathy for those that have borne the burden and heat of the day. We feel like taking hold of the work anew. I want to so live that I may share with God's people in the latter rain, and be prepared to stand in the time of trouble. Your unworthy brother striving for eternal life. Jefferson Co., N. Y., March 18th, 1856. Bible Classes.
By J. M. McLellan
"Search the Scriptures." John v, 39. This is the admonition of the Son of God, and the only effectual way of finding out what is truth. In these days of fables we should do as did the noble Bereans in the days of Paul; [Acts xvii, 11;] they "searched the Scriptures daily." Now it seems to me that the best and most effectual plan that could be devised for "searching the Scriptures daily," would be to establish a Bible class in each of the different churches for the examination of such subjects as they may think most important. I think it would be very beneficial in bringing the churches into the unity of the faith, and help us all to see alike, as the Bible will be the great rule by which every subject will be tested. It seems to me that we all must arrive at the same conclusion. There are also other advantages to be derived from the establishment of Bible classes in the different churches; and one is, 1. There will be a subject proposed each Sabbath for investigation, and by having that subject in our minds through the week, it would keep them from being occupied with unprofitable ones. 2. It would release the few messengers of God who have the burden of the last message of mercy from spending so much of their time in laboring with, and among the churches, to get and keep them right, when if we had Bible classes established in each church, we could investigate, "search the Scriptures," and learn ourselves what duty is, and let the messengers go into new fields and carry the word of life unto perishing souls. I think it is a sin to hinder the messengers of God from the work that he has called them to, which is to lay the last solemn truths of the Third Angel's Message before the world; and can they do this by being called to go the same ground over and over again? No. Is it then any wonder that they do not have that freedom they once had? The reason is the last message of mercy cannot stand still: its course is onward; and as the message rises God's messengers must move forward in spreading it before the people. Dear brethren, let us not hinder them and call them back, but let us do all we can to help them go. Let us aid them with our prayers, that God may bless their labors and prepare them to face the "powers of darkness," that they may stand firm in the coming contest, [2 Tim. iii, 8,] which I believe lies just before us. Let us be up and doing. Let us "search the Scriptures daily" for ourselves and find what duty is, and after finding it, practice it, that we may have our work done and well done, that we can render up an account of our stewardship with joy and not with grief; and that we may not be ashamed before him at his coming. A Correction.
By Mary R. Boyd
Bro. Smith:—In No. 23 of Vol. vii of the Review, is a letter written by myself. It purports to have been written at Lyme, N. Y. It should be Lyme, N. H. The fourth line from the top reads, "been enabled to keep holy the Sabbath of the Lord." This is a mistake which I very much regret and hope will be rectified if consistent. It should read, "been striving to keep holy the Sabbath of the Lord," &c. I feel far from making any statement so strong as the one printed. It is in much weakness and imperfection that I try to serve the Lord. Yours in love, striving for growth in grace. Lyme, N. H., March 23d, 1856. OBITUARY.
By A. M. Lindsley
BRO. SMITH:—I am requested to inform you of the death of our beloved Sister Hunt of this place, after a short illness of a few days. She died March 25th, 1856, in hope of a glorious immortality at the appearing of Jesus. Bro. Hiram Edson attended the funeral services. "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another." Meetings on the Bible Sabbath
By A. S. Hutchins
BRO. SMITH:—I have just returned from Saratoga Co., N. Y., where I spent three Sabbaths. In the town of Greenville, I spent two Sabbaths, and preached fourteen sermons while there. Our meetings were held in a hall. Most of the time the weather was quite unfavorable, but notwithstanding this the interest for attending the meetings and for hearing the word spoken, continued to increase gradually unto their close. Our last meeting, which was held on First-day, was one of much interest. We presented for the fourth time the subject of the Bible Sabbath. Several came in for the first time to hear our evidences upon this subject. And as the light from the sacred pages of God's blessed word shone upon us, those who believe and obeyed this Word, were free indeed. A few meetings previous to this we remarked that the religion of the Bible made men honest and fair. And that if a man had the truths of the holy Bible on his side, he could not fear to have his position closely and thoroughly investigated. And that especially upon the Sabbath question, all who keep the seventh day, could afford to be frank, honest and fair. And therefore, if any one knew of any text of scripture which they thought in any way sustained the First-day theory, if they chose before the commencement of our last meeting to present the same, we would endeavor to show to the contrary. A goodly number of attentive hearers came to the meeting, but no one brought with him, or made reference to one "thus saith the Lord," for Sunday-keeping. We do not infer from this that all of the congregation resolved to take a stand for the Bible Sabbath. But we do hope and fervently pray that some who acknowledged they saw light on our position, and that the subject is clear, &c., will join the two happy families there (one of which embraced the Sabbath while we were there) who are now endeavoring to keep all of the Commandments of God. I praise God for truth; for clear, consistent, Bible truth. It is not with those who are walking in the light of the Third Angel's Message, as with the preacher some years since, who advocated the temporal millennium: he said he had no trouble with this subject till the Adventist asked him for his proof texts: then he was silenced. No, not so with those who keep the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus, they can give a "reason" of their hope. I am confident with others, who have written on this point, that new fields must be entered, and that our meetings should be held longer. But one sermon on present truth had been preached in G. previous to our meetings there. A. S. HUTCHINS.
Morristown, Vt., March 25th, 1856. Forgiveness and Unity Among Believers
By L. Drake
Bro. Smith:—I am aware that the remnant have many trials to pass through, and the dragon is to make war with those that keep the Commandments of God, and have the Testimony of Jesus Christ. As regards the manner in which this war will commence, will it not be to divide and scatter the flock? will it not be to make little difficulties to arise and grow to almost mountains in our own eyes? I fear the remnant have given ground to the enemy in this respect. Should we not get on the whole armor and use the weapons of our warfare which are not carnal, but spiritual, and fight the good fight of faith? If we would have our faults forgiven in heaven, we should forgive one another on earth. I believe it should be a pleasure to forgive one another their trespasses when confessed, and I believe we should be as willing to confess our own faults, as to forgive others their faults when confessed. With the same degree of pleasure we forgive, we may expect to be forgiven in heaven. Then let us confess our faults one to another, and forgive one another that all our sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. I feel myself one of the least of the followers of the Lamb, but I want a place with them. I rejoice in the present truth. I want to be sanctified through it, and live a daily Christian. I want to live in such a manner that it may say to those around that this world is not my home, but that I am looking for a city that hath foundations, whose maker and builder is God. Dear brethren and sisters, are we prepared for things for which we are looking? Have we on the wedding garment? Are we without fault? Are we without guile in our mouths? Let us look at ourselves! How important it is that we be all united and love one another as Jesus loved us. If we would be loved, we should show our love by our works. Love begets love. I feel to sympathize with those connected with the Office, realizing the responsibility that rests upon them, and those who have long borne the burden and heat of the day. Yours in hope of being an overcomer.
L. Drake.
March 11th, 1856. The Duty to Obey Present Truth
By Luther Paine
Bro. Smith :—Although I am a stranger to you by sight, and acquaintance, yet I conclude that we are harmoniously united in truth and spirit. I believe that it was in the order of God, that I was found among a loving people, looking for Jesus at the seventh month movement, in the Fall of 1844; and notwithstanding our disappointment, we find abundant cause for praise and thanksgiving to God, that our pathway has been illumed by the light of truth. Yes, thank God, present truth, by which we as a people are held in disrepute. But we have no misgivings relative to our position, that it is in accordance with the Bible; and we find cause to pity those who have disregarded the scriptural pathway, and by human wisdom, doubtless, have caused the truth of the speedy coming of the Lord to be evil spoken of by the many set times for the Lord to come, having no authority from his word for such a course. But we are inclined to believe that the honest-hearted ones will yet become the willing and obedient subjects of present truth, and finally enter into life. How plain and pointed are the words of our Lord, when he said, "Not every one which saith Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he which doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." "Doeth the will of my Father." Very much is comprised in the words, even that we be found doing all the requirements of God, having supreme love to God, being dead to the world, crucified with Christ, possessing a pure heart; consequently in possession of overcoming faith, being victorious through Christ. I am glad, truly, that the remnant church are seeing and feeling the importance of holy living; and that we carry out these requirements, we must possess holy hearts. We are not to look for pure streams from an impure fountain. No, no. God's church which is to be redeemed from among men, is to be without spot, shining forth in God-like excellence, "fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners." We should at this late hour, engage with all our hearts in the deep things of God's truth. Let me say to the dear saints, Settle into the divine will. Let your light shine. Do not hide it, because you may think that yours is not so refulgent as others. Hide self, and hold up Jesus. Let God use you for his glory. There must be a mighty breaking down before the Lord, a full consecration to God, that we may live every hour in waiting readiness. I pray that there may be a mighty coming up of commandment-keepers, to the help of the Lord, that the Third Angel's Message may wax louder and louder. We should possess much of the Faith of Jesus, and the patience of the saints. In fact, the whole gospel armor girded about us, will be none too much to shield us, and keep us secure amid the perils by the way. God's Church is to pass through great tribulation previous to her admittance into the holy City; and we do well to be mindful, that such as live to witness a portion of the seven last plagues, will be without an Intercessor, and in that "great day of his wrath, who shall be able to stand?" Nothing short of a full consecration to God, connected with a mighty overcoming faith, will enable us to do this. Brethren, let us not rest until we are filled with faith and the Holy Ghost. Yours in the blessed hope.
Luther Paine.
Hampden, Co., Mass.