p. 16 | Review and Herald, Vol. 8, No. 2. (4/24/1856)

Earlier text: THE SEAL OF THE LIVING GOD

A Testimony of Faith and Hope

By Emily Wilcox

From Sister Wilcox.

Bro. Smith :—Being often cheered by hearing from others of like precious faith, through the Review, I would also add my testimony in favor of the truth. I have felt encouraged and to rejoice of late, in the rising prospect of the cause of truth. Although the Enemy is trying his utmost to impede its progress, it is destined to go forward and accomplish that whereunto it is sent. The Lord's name will be glorified in the earth. O let us be faithful and suffer on a little longer, and be willing to bear the reproaches of Christ with patience and meekness; be willing to suffer with him, if we may but reign with him. But may none of us suffer as an evil doer; but may we show forth our faith to the world, by a well-ordered life and a godly conversation, and strive earnestly to live with an eye single to the glory of God, that when our Saviour appeareth, he will not be ashamed of us before the Father, and the holy angels.

We must be pure and holy and endure unto the end, or we shall never be permitted to enter the holy city and walk the golden streets of the New Jerusalem. I feel daily to consecrate myself anew to the Lord's service, and strive with all the powers he has given me, to deny myself of all ungodliness and worldly lusts, and live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world, looking for and hastening unto the coming of the day of God.

Yours in hope of immortality at the appearing of Jesus. EMILY WILCOX. Madison Co., N. Y.

Keeping the Lord’s Sabbath

By J. J. Perkins

From Bro. Perkins.

BRO. SMITH:—For the last seven or eight months I have received the Review and Herald and rejoice in the truths it so fearlessly advocates. I have been for a number of years a member of the Christian Church of Macomb; and I would say to my Sunday-keeping brethren, how often do we ask the Father of lights to teach us his law that we may walk in his Commandments and obey him in all things pertaining unto eternal life. I would ask, Can we be honest before God and not observe the Sabbath of the Lord in preference to that of the Pope? If God be God, serve him; but if the Pope, then serve him. As for me and my house let us serve the living God by keeping his Commandments, and walking in the light of the blessed truth.

For the last few months, myself and companion have been keeping the Sabbath of the Lord, and have been abundantly blest and comforted. We are looking and longing for the coming King.

J. J. PERKINS. Macomb Co., Mich.

The Review, a Welcome Messenger

By Eliza Scoville

From Sister Scoville.

Bro. Smith :—As the time has arrived for us to again forward our mite to help sustain the Review I haste to do so; for it is a welcome messenger to us. We greet its weekly returns with pleasure; and it strengthens and encourages us when we read the communications from the dear brethren and sisters that are scattered abroad who are holding on to the truth and are keeping the Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus; and not only that, but the light we receive through this medium from the holy Scriptures which will make us wise unto salvation, we esteem a very great blessing.

I believe the Lord is giving wisdom to his servants in these last days to bring out of his store-house things new and old that will bring all the honest-hearted into one fold; and then there will be one fold, and one Shepherd. I praise the Lord for what he has done for me. He has opened my eyes to see the present truth, and by his assisting grace I am determined to try to keep all his Commandments that I may have a right to the tree of life and enter in through the gates into the city.

Your sister in the Lord, Eliza Scoville. Onondaga Co., N. Y.

Extracts from Letters.

Sr. Pettibone writes from Factory Point, Vt.:—"I have believed in prayer for the restoration of the sick, and that the gifts would be restored to the Church; as they were in the days of the apostles; also that the second advent was near, and that God had set his hand the second time to gather the remnant of his people. It had been my ardent desire to live nearer to God, and I had been praying to be guided by the true light, in these perilous times when the Review was put into my hand. The Sabbath light is perfectly plain to me, and consequently I have kept the Lord's Sabbath since the first of November last. As I am alone in this place I meet coldness from some, and silent contempt from others, but I heed them not. Above all things I desire purity in the sight of my maker. I desire to obey all the commandments and to keep myself unspotted from the world."

The Church at Troy

Sister Harp writes from Troy, N. Y.:—"About one year ago our beloved Bro. Bates came here and set the church in order by rightly dividing the word of truth; and since that time the church has met every Sabbath, and the Lord of the Sabbath has met with us with power and glory, and we have times of refreshing from his presence. There are eight of us in number here: four of us have had experience in the Advent movement, and we mean to be of that company that Esdras saw who stood stiffly for the truth. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who has sent out master-workmen that need not be ashamed of their work, because it is in harmony with the word of him who is the faithful Witness, and the gates of hell cannot prevail against it. Glory be to him that made heaven and earth and the sea and the fountain of waters. Go on brethren and sisters in the Lord. Soon our trials will be no more."

Love for Present Truth

Sister C. R. Austin writes from Berkshire, Vt.:—

“O, I love the present glorious truth better and better; and my prayer is that God would speed on the Third Angel's Message until all his children are brought into the unity of the faith. The more I search the Word, the more I realize my own unworthiness to be called a child of God. I see the gate is strait, and the way is narrow, and if we ever go through and inherit eternal life, we shall have to give ‘earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.’”

Faith Amid Opposition

Bro. Wm. Steese writes from Sauk Co., Wis.:—

"I still want to retain the Review, as it is a welcome messenger to me, and I think it has the truth, in the main, of the Third Angel's Message, notwithstanding we have been much annoyed by the advocates of the future age. But the Lord has been very good to us in sending Bro. Bates this way, which has strengthened me very much in the faith. Bro. Hall came here a week ago and has been lecturing on his doctrine; but I think he has not much foundation; at least, I cannot see it. We to-day read Bro. Bates' letter written from Eldorado; and it made me weep to see the opposition we have to pass through; but we still hope for deliverance soon through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

"Brethren, let us be faithful to the end; for only those who are faithful shall receive a crown."

When Will the Nations Be Dashed in Pieces

Bro. J. S. Wager writes from Orangeport, N. Y.: "Bro. Waggoner's article, 'When will the nations be dashed in pieces?' is very clear. I cannot see how any will be left here on probation after Christ comes; for the wicked are to be destroyed by the brightness of his coming."

Note to Bro. Read.

By Editor

DEAR BROTHER:—Yours, in which you inquire whether we "will insert in the Review a reply" to our letters to you, was duly received, but not noticed sooner on account of sickness.

Should the Editor of the REVIEW answer, No, we will not insert a communication from your pen, you and others would doubtless regard him as sectarian, and the readers of the REVIEW would regard him rash in his decision; for who knows but a communication from you is just what is needed at this time.

But should he answer, Yes, we will publish your communication—a communication which he has not seen, and knows nothing of its spirit or sentiment—he would be regarded by every reflecting, candid reader of the REVIEW as totally unfit for his office. Who, in his sober senses, could expect a faithful, careful Editor to promise to publish articles which he has never seen, from men he has never seen? men too, who in his certain knowledge have recently advanced sentiments unscriptural, and in their nature destructive to the faith and sweet spirit of the Third Angel's Message!

It is true that we commenced publishing works on the Law, Atonement, and the Nature and Destiny of Man, before they were fully written; but it was with the understanding that the authors of these works should consult with each other in regard to the sentiments advanced.

But few realize the toil and perplexities of a religious Editor, especially one who stands in defense of unpopular Bible truth in these times of uneasiness, deception and treachery. Some have such views of "freedom," and "free investigation of all Bible questions," and of their rights in a religious periodical, that they would strip the Editor of that right of freedom as a man, a Christian, which Heaven gives him, and which his office should allow him. They make him the only slave to the opinions and dictates of other men, to be found in the free States. And should he refuse to publish unwritten articles, they would at once brand him as "Sectarian."

Eld. J. M. Stephenson, in his private letters especially, denounces the REVIEW in the most unsparing manner as "Sectarian." And why is this? Only fourteen months since he wrote to the REVIEW Office as follows: "My sympathies are all with the Review. It is that paper or none with me." See Vol. VI, No. 25. What has produced so great a change in so short a time? Has the REVIEW changed its course? Not at all. A statement of facts may throw light on this matter. Nearly one year since, Eld. S. wrote to the Office, asking if we would publish articles from him, (which we had never seen, and knew not as they were written) on unfulfilled prophecies touching the future age. We expressed our unwillingness to involve the REVIEW in a discussion of that subject, and at the same time referred Eld. S. to the Committee, stating that we would abide their decision. The Committee was not consulted in the matter. Our hesitating to say yes, was enough for Eld. S. to commence his unrighteous war on the REVIEW. Suppose all the patrons and correspondents of the REVIEW should entertain the same liberal(?) views of "Free investigation," and should come on with views not especially connected with the Third Message, which the Editor considered not "meat in due season," and should take a similar course to that pursued by Eld. S., how much freedom think you the poor editor would suppose himself in possession of after a few assaults? Poor soul! Heaven might pity him, though he might look in vain to his brethren for sympathy.

We love freedom, and shall plead for the oppressed editor, that he may now and then draw a long breath in the atmosphere of sweet freedom. And while we join with all candid, sober, reflecting minds, in repudiating the course of those who have raised the cry of "Sectarian," because things could not move off at once according to their notion, we say, Let the Editor be the choice of God and his church, then give him "elbow room," to act his part as God's free-man. If he becomes unfaithful, let the church see to it in a scriptural manner; but not in the least countenance the selfish course of those persons who are ready to inflame others with prejudice because they cannot get their selfish ends answered.

The REVIEW has never been open to debates. We have reviewed the writings of men which we have regarded as erroneous, giving both sides, and, probably, the REVIEW will pursue the same course. We would here call attention to the first editorial remarks, in the first number of the first volume of the ADVENT REVIEW AND SABBATH HERALD, published Nov., 1850:—

"To Our Readers.—The REVIEW AND HERALD is designed to be strictly confined to those important truths that belong to the present time. We hope to be able to send you this enlarged size of the paper quite often, containing a simple and clear exposition of those great and sanctifying truths embraced in the message of the third angel; viz., the "Commandments of God and the Faith of Jesus." It is truly lamentable to see Second Advent papers, that once advocated the pure, naked and cutting truth, applicable to the time, now devoted to the discussion of questions foreign from the present truth, which cannot possibly benefit the dear saints that are perishing for spiritual food. Among other charges given to Timothy by the apostle Paul is the following: 'But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.' This we intend to do."

For every departure from this course marked out more than five years since, we are sorry. May God forgive. And had all who have undertaken to handle the Third Message during this time adhered to such a course, our trials (as a people) would have been less, and our numbers and graces would now be greatly increased.

Communications sent to the REVIEW Office are read, and either published, with or without remarks, or carefully preserved in the Office one year at least, unless called for. We shall be happy to hear from you, brother, and shall treat communications from you as above.

James White

The Church Book Fund.

By James White

We are happy to say that this enterprise is moving off in a spirited manner. There is already three-fourths enough pledged, and sent in independent of pledges, to cover the Books and Stock on hand, also Machinery used in Book-binding. This is as it should be. Let the Church have a small capital to be used in this department, instead of leaving one to struggle along with it without capital. The proceeds from Books sold since April 9th, have been put into the Church Book Fund Treasury. It is not too late for others to send in their pledges, or for those who object to pledging to send in their money.

J. W.

Labors in the West.

By Joseph Bates

Bro. Smith:—Since my last of the first inst., we have been holding meetings in various places in this town, and Stockton. Many new school-houses have been erected in this section of the country within the last two years; the most of which are open and free for all kinds of religious meetings, without distinction. We have been invited to occupy in several. We closed a course of twelve lectures in one, in this place, last week. Much interest was manifest, particularly at the close of the meetings. Two families came out decided for the whole truth. Some others acknowledged the weekly Sabbath of the Bible. Five followed the Saviour in baptism, humbly desiring to follow him fully from henceforth.

We are glad to hear that the work of God is progressing in various parts of the wide spread harvest field. The Lord speed on the message, and messengers, for the final gathering of all the scattered remnant.

I have just arrived at this place to give a few lectures by invitation, to some that have not yet heard our position. Joseph Bates. Nora, Jo Daviess Co., Ill., Apr. 15th, 1856.

Communication from Bro. Loughborough.

By John Norton Loughborough

BRO. SMITH:—Since my return from the eastern part of the State I have held meetings in Wilson, Barre, and Bath.

At Wilson I held but two meetings; but deep interest seemed to be manifested in the word spoken. It was not thought consistent to continue them longer on account of the road's being almost impassable.

In Barre Center, where we have given several lectures before, we gave one lecture on the Gospel Hope. The few who were present listened with deep interest. One man was present who had been investigating the subject of Spirit Manifestations. After finishing our discourse we offered publications treating on the subject of our discourse. The man above referred to, came and bought, and said, "This is something I never thought of: I'm going to look into it."

We were cheered to learn that some had commenced to keep the Sabbath since our last lectures in that place. We commenced meetings in Bath one mile north-west of the village, Apr. 5th, in a school-house where they had heard nothing of our views. We gave five lectures. The people listened with almost breathless attention. Although the most of our meetings continued as long as two hours, they seemed contented to sit and hear the truth. Several furnished themselves with publications, desirous of understanding our faith.

J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH. Bath, N. Y., Apr. 8th, 1856.

Receipts for Book Fund.

By Editor

D R Palmer $60. J P Kellogg $25. G W Amadon, Wm M Smith, each $10. G Lowree, J Pierce, Ira Abbey, H Childs, W D Williams, Wm. H Laughhead, W Holden, each $5. Saml Benson $15. D C Elmer $3. Wm S Gifford, O Davis, Wm Mott, Ira Day, Eld J Locke, each $2. E B Lane, a Friend, E Day, C M; E Beamis, J Bodley, R T Payne, A R Morse, each $1. E D Scott, H Bramhall, S C Perry, M A Perry, each $0.50.

Receipts.

By Editor

R T Payne, Jno Alexander, A R Morss, Wm Harris, D C Babcock, R Gorsline, Sr Rogers, J A Fowler, S Burlingham, E Goodwin, A M Curtis, E R Seaman, S Pierce, L Mann, (for J Mann;) J Smith, T B Mead, G Felshaw, L M Freeto, H P Wakefield, E Potter, A Hart, N Gibbs, A Lamb G R Palmer, (for Mrs M P,) E Boyer, H Barr, S Warner, Mrs V Dunbar, S Buzzell, R Lockwood, A Allen, J Cady, D Arnold, D Hewitt, S G Cottrell, Betsey Reed, J S Preston, C B Spalding, D Kellogg, C M Wade, B Graham, A H Hilliard, S Bruce, Wm H Laughhead, G W Hamilton, R J Waterhouse, S Haselton, A N Curtis, a Lover of Truth, Eld J Locke, J Bodley, A T Wilkinson, T W Potter, N H Satterlee, J Parmee, N H Schooley, H Smith, D Paine, J Y Wilcox, Wm Sugden, P J Wilcox, J Dorsas, ($0,25, each, for E Loyd, W Allen, L Bacon, A J Jellison,) Sr S Chase, O Davis, Wm McAndrew, Z Brooks, each $1.

L Crosby, Jno Pierce, A Whitney, M G Bartlett, ($1, for Mrs H Towle, G Leighton, S Benson, each $2,) H S Gurney ($0,50 for S Gurney,) $1,50. R Hicks, H Snyders, J M Hall, H Patch, each $0,50.

ON VOL. VII.—I C Snow, Saml H Snow, O Tarbell, B Boyers, A H Hilliard, S A Snyder, A N Curtis, T Harlow, C G Cramer, each $1. A M Lane $0,25.

TO SEND REVIEW TO THE POOR—Cyrenius Smith, (from the purse of his late son, Wm M.,) $5.

To move Office and pay for Printing Materials.

Amount to be raised	$603.64
Previous Donations,	$332 87
B Ingalls, $1.00	D R Palmer, $5.00
F F Lamoreaux, 1.00	L Paine, 1.50
B M Hibbard, 1.00	A Woodruff, 1.00
S Gove, 1.00	A P H Kelsey, 1.00
S B McLaughlin, 1.00	P Barrows, 0.80
J Smith, 1.00	Sr S Chase, 1.00
D Hewitt, 1.00	S Benson, 3.00
A R Morse, 1.00	B Benson, 5.00
Wm Harris, 1.00	H Patch, 0.50

Remaining to be raised by the Church $242.97

S. T. BELDEN, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PRINTER.

Business.

By Editor

H. P. Wakefield:—Received.

D. Arnold:—Received, but as yet had no time to reply.

H. W. Lawrence:—The letter you mention of Mar. 11, we have not received. Only three letters reached us from you in the month of March: The first of Mar. 5th, containing business for M. L. Willys, J. Obrist, Z. Carpenter, S. Minott, and M. S. Carpenter, which was all attended to according to direction. The next, Mar. 12th, with business for Moses and Wm. Mott. The third, Mar. 17th, for A. Penfield. We have sent papers to all the persons named in your last except T. Carpenter and M. Burbank, which we now insert.

Mary E. Cramer:—Your present remittance pays for the present volume and half of Vol. IX.

J. Dorcas:—A. J. Jellison, Wood Co., Ohio, What town?

S. Bruce:—Did you intend the dollar you sent to Bro. White for INSTRUCTOR?

A. S. Hutchins:—The name at North Hyde Park is H. Patch; but we have several subscribers of the same surname in other States.

N. A. Whitford:—For your present remittance, we will continue to you volume viii.

J. Byington:—You wrote the name Harrison, but we nevertheless credited the money in the book to Harrington, supposing that was the person meant.

C. W. Sperry:—We find by reference a receipt to N. G. N. in No. 2, of Vol. vii. We now make it right on book.

Sarah E. Pettibone:—The P. O. Address of the individual you speak of is Ordino, Marquette Co. Wis. You can write him.

P. Barrows:—The address you inquire is Palos, Cook Co. Ill.

A sufficient number of the REVIEW No. 23 Vol. 7, for our purpose have been returned to the Office, for which our friends have our thanks.

Bro. Wm. Bates of Abington, Ct. sends an urgent request for Bro. Barr to come and labor in his place.

The P. O. Address of Jno. T. Ongley, is Waterloo, Seneca Co. N. Y.

Letters.

L Chester, D Howard, B A Phillips, J Dudley, R Davis, S W Bean, H Main, L Paine, J D Merriam.