Review and Herald, Vol. 91, No. 47. (11/12/1914)

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Editorial

By Editor

The Week of Prayer

ANOTHER week of prayer has rolled around. Similar occasions have brought many blessings. They have been times of seeking God, of putting away sin, of renewing consecration, of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. What will the season this year bring to the members of our church? It is fitting that we should pause and with the aid of the Spirit of God consider our needs as a church and as individuals.

What are our needs as a church in this year 1914? Are we keeping pace with the message of truth and with the leadings of God's providence? Some we believe are. Others we fear have lost their first love and are drifting. It cannot be denied but that many of our people have lost that simplicity of life and Christian living which once characterized this denomination. The appeal of the world has found a response in many hearts. The spirit of worldliness, the spirit of pleasure and of commercialism, the love of riches, the desire for social prestige, have made strong appeal to some of our dear people. There is not that careful regard for plainness and simplicity of dress which was once manifest among us. We see some of our sisters, a few even the wives of those who occupy leading positions in the church, catering to the fashions of the world in the wearing of jewelry and fashionable worldly attire. In many homes the altar of family prayer has been broken down. The reading of the Bible and Testimonies is neglected.

We would not represent by any means that these conditions are general, or that even the majority of our brethren and sisters have yielded to these influences. God has a loyal people in the membership of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Thousands have given themselves unreservedly to the promulgation of the gospel message; they have placed all upon the altar.

But it must be admitted that these leavening influences which we have mentioned have made altogether too great inroads, and in many of our churches are found those whose feet are set in the paths of retrogression. It is to these that we appeal today to return to their first love; to break away from the influences which are slowly drawing them away, and to make straight paths for their feet lest they themselves be turned out of the way and become responsible for leading others astray.

And to our faithful brethren and sisters who sense these dangers that confront us we appeal to put forth earnest efforts for those who need help. We believe that the straight testimony against these disintegrating influences should be revived. We hear little said today emphasizing the need of plainness of dress, against the dangers of worldliness, against the inroads which worldly sports and pleasures are making in the lives of our young people. The watchmen on the walls of Zion need to give the trumpet a certain sound. Our church elders and those in responsible positions need to realize that God has made them shepherds of the flock, and that to the extent of their influence he will hold them responsible for souls committed to their care.

It is not for us to labor in a spirit of censure and faultfinding. This will only defeat the object we are trying to accomplish. It is for us to labor in love and patience, even as Christ labored. Nor should we from the pulpit denounce in scathing and unsparing terms these evils. True, they should be pointed out; their danger should be plainly set before our people; but let it be done in love, and with an appeal that will move the heart as well as convince the judgment.

Under the blessing of God, we may make the coming week of prayer a season of great refreshing in our individual experiences and in our labors for those in need. And as we put forth this labor for the unconverted in our own homes, for those needing help in the church, and for our neighbors, let us see to it that we remove from their pathway stones of stumbling which perchance our wrong example has placed before them. We may need to make confession to our husbands, our wives, our children, our parents, our brothers and sisters, to those in the church with whom we have unkindly differed, to neighbors whom we have wronged.

Heaven's ordained way of getting rid of sin is through confession. We cannot get out from under its incubus by any human invention. Confession may require the crucifixion of our feelings, the humbling of our hearts; but O, the reward will pay for all the sacrifice! It will bring to our hearts the consciousness that we stand clear before God and before our fellows; it will add to our testimonies a power as we witness to those around us.

We have come to solemn times in the history of this world. We are admonished by the events taking place around us that the day of the Lord hasteth greatly. Our great danger in the past was in putting off that day. We shall be tempted to do this in the future. The message of God today to Seventh-day Adventists is to prepare their hearts and lives for his coming. We cannot afford to delay longer. We cannot afford to spend precious time in conserving selfish interests. We have no promise of the future. Today only is ours in which to flee to the city of refuge. May God help us to do thorough work, first in eliminating sin from our lives, and then in seeking to help our fellows to find in Christ Jesus salvation from sin now, and eternal salvation in his coming kingdom.

F. M. W.

Our Example in Christ

By C. M. S.

WHEN Jesus Christ gave himself to the world for its redemption, he set an example which every true child of his will seek to emulate. He threw himself into the turmoil of this world's activities, into the vortex of its greedy graspings, into the clamor of its selfish strivings, that out of its turmoil, its graspings, and its strivings, he might win for the kingdom of righteousness and for the vindication of divine justice a harvest of trial-tested souls who would shine with the spotless luster of transparent purity through the ages that shall never end.

For that purpose he gave himself, and to that purpose they who are his will dedicate their lives. It matters not how high a position any man or woman may hold in this world, they are not exempt from this soul-winning service. In this Christ is still our example. Concerning this we read:—

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus; who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Phil 2: 4-11.

There is no position that man can occupy in this world that can in any way compare with the position which Jesus Christ laid down when he made himself a servant of sinful men. There is no honor or glory that earthly governments can bestow that can in any degree compare with that which our Redeemer laid down when he laid down his life that they who had forfeited theirs might live again and have the right again to walk in the paradise of God.

Do you think that your renunciation of this world and its allurements is a sacrifice? If that be a sacrifice, what then is that act of our Saviour's when he laid down the highest position and the greatest glory and honor any being could have under God, to serve human beings in this world of iniquity, and render up his life a sacrifice on that despised emblem of a licentious pagan worship? He gave his life and made that sacrifice without reservation and without complaint, and permitted himself to be accounted accursed and to be crucified among malefactors that you and I might be blessed and given the right of association with unfallen angels.

He made that his business in the world. To sanctify means to set apart for a specific use; and so he says of himself:— “As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” John 17: 18, 19.

The purpose which he set before himself is the purpose he has set before his followers. As he sanctified himself (set himself apart) to that specific work, so he expects his followers to be sanctified (set apart) to that same work. That work was the salvation of men; and it is impossible for any person to be a true follower of Christ and not have burning in his soul an unquenchable desire to be used of God in the work of saving other men. The moment we take the name of Christ upon us, we take upon us the obligation “so to walk, even as he walked,” to employ ourselves in his chosen occupation, to make self and our own ambition secondary, and Christ and the service of others the primary object of our lives.

We began this year with a well-defined denominational purpose. It was that each member should win at least one soul for Christ before the year should close. Some have done it; some have tried it and not done it; some have not even tried; and the year is drawing to a close. With Jesus, every day and every fiber of his being was committed to that all-important project. Wherever he went, he was winning souls for his kingdom. That was his life; and that purpose never ceased for a moment until that life went out on Calvary's cross. There he gave the full measure of all he had to offer, and in that gift he purchased our release from the final penalty of sin. Are we his when we make no effort to extend his purpose in our lives? Are we his truly when we make no effort to win a soul for him? Can we be his and never present him for another's acceptance? Can we be his and speak no word for him? We know it cannot be. He set himself apart to that work, and then laid upon his followers the obligation to do for others what he had done for them; that is, to lay their lives upon the altar of service for their fellow men.

Now, as we have taken his name upon us, as we hope for a place in his kingdom in the day of final awards, as we trust in his mercy and rejoice in his sacrifice, let us accept the responsibility which that involves, and give him the willing and glad sacrifice of our lives. Much precious time has been lost; but the eleventh hour has not yet passed. There are still souls unsaved who have as yet had no opportunity to accept the message which God has commissioned us to bear to the world. Let us sanctify ourselves to that service, living the life of Christ before them and presenting the requirements of God's kingdom to them, that they, too, may rejoice in the blessed light and the glad prospect that have come to us in the mighty truths of the third angel's message.

Let every Seventh-day Adventist take up the work at once, and do all in his or her power to make this year the most glorious year in the history of this people. God is waiting to add his blessing and his power to our efforts; and if we will place ourselves in the channel of his purpose, he will crown our efforts with success. If there are any among us who have not yet entered this soul-winning campaign for the year 1914, I appeal to them in the name of their Saviour, Do not delay it longer. The terrible conditions now prevalent in this world tell us in no uncertain language that probation's hours are drawing to a close. The need of workers is most urgent; the time for work is short; and very soon the door of mercy will be closed upon an impenitent and unsaved world. Are you doing all God expects of you? Could you answer Yes if the Judge himself should ask you? “For their sakes I sanctify myself,” said Jesus. Let us, as we look out upon an unsaved world, resolve within ourselves, as Christ resolved within himself, and say of them, and mean it when we say it, “For their sakes I sanctify myself.” C. M. S.

Be of Good Courage

By F. M. W.

WHY should we be downcast or discouraged? The storm clouds may gather, the darkness deepen, and the conflict grow more acute, but our Father and our Friend has his hand on the helm. He is keeping watch over his own. He will permit no experience to befall his children which he sees will not be for their highest good. So let us be brave and strong and courageous in his service. The battle is not ours, but the Lord’s. He is the leader and the captain. We have only to follow his instructions, and he will be responsible for the outcome.

The Lord admonished Joshua to “be strong and of a good courage.” We need to pass this word down the line at the present time: Courage in the Lord. He is the basis of our courage. He possesses infinite wisdom, infinite power, and infinite love for his children. He cannot make a mistake; he cannot be unkind. His infinite wisdom guides the exercise of his infinite love in our behalf, and these two will enlist for our aid his infinite power. The apostle Paul says that in our conflict with sin we may be “strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power.” This is our comforting assurance.

Dear reader, are you weary and heavy-laden? Are you pressed beyond measure with cares and responsibilities? Are

you seeking by your own efforts a way of escape from the thralldom of sin? Hear his gracious invitation:

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matt. 11: 28-30.

Are you passing through the deep waters of affliction, and does it seem that the overwhelming flood will destroy even life itself? The Master has made provision for this. His word is:

“For I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” Isa. 43: 1, 2.

Do you fear for the future in these days of turmoil and uncertainty? Do you tremble in view of what may be coming upon the earth? Let the assurance which sustained David in his hour of trial prove your comfort and solace:—

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. . . . Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.” Ps. 46: 1-11.

Have you wandered from God, and do you find yourself deprived of the consolations of his grace, of the comfortings of his Spirit? To you he gives this gracious message:

“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4: 8-10.

And so we might enumerate the whole category of human ills. The blessed Master has a remedy for every one. We cannot float beyond the ocean of his love. No pall of darkness can shut out the sunlight of his face. He declares, “Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” Let us be of good cheer, and let us pass on to our brother and our neighbor the word of courage in the Lord. The conflict will soon be over. Soon “he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” The race is almost run, and the crown of glory will soon be placed upon the heads of the faithful. Let us “hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.” Thus shall we become indeed partakers of Christ. F. M. W.

Family Worship

By G. B. Thompson

FAMILY worship! What a great anchor to the soul! The seasons spent in a home where family worship is conducted as it should be will leave in the memory a fragrance that time cannot efface. No young man or young woman can ever forget those seasons of grace, when, around the family circle, petitions mingled with thanksgiving have been offered to the Father's throne for his care and protection, and for his guidance in the future.

There is nothing else that so sweetens the home life. True family worship is a fountain that brings streams of holy influences into every part of the household. It is a vase of perfume that sheds fragrance over all. It softens asperities. It quells anger. It quiets impatience. It settles differences. It subdues evil passions. Hearts that are drawn together at God's feet every day cannot get very far apart. The frictions of the day are forgotten when all voices mingle in the same heavenly song. As the tender words of inspiration fall with their benign counsels, all feeling of unkindness melts away. The altar in the midst wondrously hallows and sweetens the home fellowship. Besides, it puts new strength into every heart. It comforts sorrow. It is a shield against temptation. It smooths out the wrinkles of care. It inspires strength for burden bearing. It quickens every religious sentiment, and keeps the fires burning on every heart's altar.

The manner in which the family worship is conducted is very important. It should be made so pleasant as to be looked forward to with gladness even by the youngest children. Too often it is made tedious, monotonous, or burdensome. Men fall into a stereotyped order which they never vary. Long passages are read, and the prayers offered are not only long, but are the same every day from year to year, with no adaptation to the home life, or to the capacities of children. There is no reason why the family worship should not be the most delightful exercise in the home life. It should be the continual study of heads of households to make it bright, interesting, and profitable. To make it dull and irksome is treason to true religion.

It is impossible to give more than the merest suggestions and hints as to methods. A part in the service should be given to each child. Questions may be asked each day on the passage read the day before. Incidents may be introduced to illustrate the lesson. Hard words may be explained. One practical thought at least may be selected from the Scripture read which will bear upon the day's life. Cheerful songs may be sung. Then in the prayer some part should be given to the little ones. Sometimes it is good to have all follow in the prayer, repeating it phrase after phrase. And all may unite in the Lord's Prayer at the close. When there are quite young children in the family, it may not be best to read the Bible in course, but to select portions in which they will be easily interested.

For an exercise so sacred and fraught with such influences, it is not too much to say that the most careful preparation should be made. It is probable that there are few duties for which so little preparation is actually made. If thought were given to this matter beforehand, the exercise need never be dull or wearisome. The passage may not only be selected but studied, and some point fixed upon for practical enforcement. A bright incident or little story may be read to help to fix the lesson. The prayer may be thought over or even written out. A few minutes given every day to preparation for family worship will serve to make it, as it should be, the most pleasant and attractive incident of the day.—“Week Day Religion,” pages 79-81.

It is a source of much sadness that the rush of secular affairs is the cause of the discontinuance of family worship in many homes. The hope of the church lies in those homes where, morning and evening, the family is gathered around the altar of prayer. Here, under the benediction of Heaven, each receives strength to meet temptations.

In view of the times in which we live, the darkness which enshrouds us, and the muttering thunders which betoken a tempest of unwonted power, those who know and understand the times in which we live should not fail to rear the family altar, and petition most earnestly the throne for help in this time.

G. B. THOMPSON.

Increasing Wealth

THE increasing wealth of the world, not only in the accumulation of vast individual fortunes, but in the national wealth as well, is truly phenomenal. The London Statist gives the following figures with reference to the wealth of the three richest nations of the world; namely, the United States, Great Britain, and France:—

Within one hundred years the wealth of the United States has grown from about $1,750,000,000 to nearly $150,000,000,000, our incomes from $500,000 to $35,000,000,000, and the population from 8,000,000 to about 98,000,000. Any one may work out the extraordinary percentage of increase here indicated.

Like statistics for Great Britain show a growth of wealth from $12,500,000,000, to $85,000,000,000, and of income from $1,500,000,000 to $12,000,000,000. In France the figures show a gain in wealth from $10,000,000,000 to some $65,000,000,000, and of income from $1,250,000,000 to $6,000,000,000.

One hundred years ago Germany’s wealth—Germany then consisted of a lot of little states and principalities—was probably less than that of France, but today it is placed at nearly $80,000,000,000, with an income of $10,000,000,000.

Thus, as a new country, by comparison, the United States has an annual income reported to be greater than that of Great Britain, Germany, and France combined, with an accumulated wealth far in excess of any other land.

Readings for the Week of Prayer

By Worthie Harris Holden

To Be Read in the Churches December 12-19, 1914

Love’s Offering

WORTHIE HARRIS HOLDEN

'Tis passing wonderful that God, my King, Will own and bless my humble offering, That in his mercy he delights to own The simple gift I lay before his throne. Wonder, ye mighty through the universe, And his amazing attributes rehearse!

Love gave its all that sinners might not die, Love raised the cross that bore that gift on high; And for that ignominy, cross, and shame, What little tribute that I own his name! And shall I think an offering to bring That costs me nothing, to my glorious King?

Eternal ages only can possess The praise my raptured spirit would confess; Few are the mortal moments to declare, The gifts so trivial I may prepare. All that I am and have I give to thee, Author of love and life, to all eternity!

Suggestions to Church Officers Regarding the Week of Prayer

THE annual seasons of prayer of the people of God have always been important appointments, possible of great blessings and refreshings to those who have devotedly entered into the full spirit of the occasion. Never in the history of the church has there been a time when conditions in the church and the world call so urgently for a sincere seeking of God as the present. The nations are angry. A large portion of the world is at war. Cities are being laid waste, and thousands daily are being slaughtered. Europe is one vast shambles. Everywhere the work of God is affected, and in many countries it is well-nigh paralyzed. Surely this untold suffering and loss demand in a very special manner the most earnest seeking of God, that his people may by his Spirit be equipped to speedily finish the work; for surely his coming is near.

Those responsible for the conduct of the meetings are urged to make at an early date such arrangements for the services as will give promise of general attendance; and as far as possible, visit before and during the meetings, all their members of the church, especially those who may be inclined to be careless or negligent in their attendance. All should be encouraged to so arrange their work that they may attain the full benefit of the services. This season of prayer should not be permitted to pass without special blessings being obtained by every member of the church. The tender, loving Spirit of God should now obtain possession of every soul. Special solicitude should be manifested for any who may be on the background, and no effort should be spared to fully reclaim such. Let us strive to make this a season of refreshing from the Lord.

This year there is a very urgent need for large offerings. Notwithstanding that our brethren in the foreign fields are heartily cooperating with the Mission Board in endeavoring to keep down their expenditures, yet the necessities of our mission fields are so pressing that some increase in appropriations must be granted for 1915. To this must be added the needs of Europe. The General Conference will be obliged to set apart thousands of dollars for the relief of our brethren and work in the war zone and their mission fields. The needs of the Foreign Mission Board should therefore be fully set forth early in the meetings, that by prayer and careful planning all may be able to arrange for a very liberal offering. On Sabbath, Dec. 12, the attention of the congregations should be called to these matters, and envelopes for the offering should be given to each individual, and if possible sent to any absentees. The offering should be received Sabbath, December 19, after the reading for the day has been presented. COMMITTEE.