p. 184 | Review and Herald, Vol. 5, No. 23. (7/11/1854)

Earlier text: TENT MEETING AT DELHI, MICH

COMMUNICATIONS.

By E. W. PHELPS

From Sr. Phelps.

DEAR BRO. WHITE:—I would say in behalf of the few in this place, that we are strong in the faith giving glory to God. There are but four here that observe the Sabbath of the Lord; but we with our children are striving to keep all God's Commandments, and the testimony of Jesus Christ. We desire to live humble and to seek meekness that we may be hid in the day of the Lords anger. We rejoice to hear that the Lord is at work in different places in his moral vineyard. We know that the eyes of the Lord are upon his people. And we believe that all will have a chance to receive or reject this last message of mercy, and that all the jewels will be gathered, and fitted for the second casket. When we hear of those who have an ear to hear, calling for light, we feel to cry to the Lord of the harvest, to send forth more laborers into the field, for truly the harvest is plenteous but the laborers are few.

A few weeks ago Bro. Phelps gave his sister, (who lives in Adams Co., on the Lemonware river,) a few books with the request that she would read them, and give them to her neighbors to read. The result thus far is, that there are several that are almost persuaded, and anxiously waiting for some of the lecturing brethren to come and give them more light. They are very anxious to hear on this subject; but how can they hear without a preacher? We pray

the Lord to send some of his servants that way soon, and may there be a goodly number raised up there that shall be prepared to meet the Lord when he comes. We still feel like striving to enter in at the strait gate. The Bible assures us that it is a strait and narrow way; but it also tells us that we can overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. We do desire to be humble, and strive to be more and more like our blessed Master, and at all times manifest the fruits of the Spirit; have on the whole armor of God, that we may finally overcome, have right to the tree of life, and enter in through the gates into the city. Your sister striving to overcome.

E. W. PHELPS.

Packwaukee, Marquett Co., Wis., June 1854.

A Temporal Millennium,

The theory of a temporal millennium, as now held by many in the Christian community, is of modern origin. Less than two centuries have elapsed, since the doctrine, in its present form, was first promulgated.

Daniel Whitby, a learned doctor of divinity, was the author. From him were derived those sentiments which have since been so widely diffused, and accredited. The Christians of other days looked for the coming of their Lord, as at hand, but the dissemination of notions of a later origin, delays his coming for many years. To this favorite idea is to be attributed, in a great degree, the present lethargic state of the church and the world, respecting the near approach of the everlasting kingdom. The immediate coming of Christ to judgment, finds no response in the millenarian's bosom.

But, be not deceived: all the New Testament writers declare the judgment as near at hand. The apostles and their coadjutors preached, “Behold he cometh quickly.” The church has, through all subsequent time been anxiously watching for the consummation of her hope, waiting the return of her first love. The present age is, however, an exception, they heed not the admonition of their Christian fathers, to expect that eventful period as soon to dawn upon them. They place the coming of Christ far in the future, far beyond the limits of their earthly career?

Those passages which are usually cited to support a temporal millennium, can only be fulfilled in the “new heavens, and the new earth,” where “the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.”

On examining the prophecy of Daniel, we find presented a series of events which are to extend into the eternal state. The character of the several kingdoms which were to exist, are there delineated. These kingdoms were to be earthly, sensual and estranged from God, and to remain for a given period, when they are to be destroyed, and the kingdom of God, which is to stand forever, even forever and ever, will be established.

These kingdoms are prefigured several times, by different representations, and extend to the end of time. The judgment, the resurrection from the dead, is immediately to succeed the present condition of human government.

The little horn, mentioned in the vii. chapter was to wear out the saints for a certain period, time, times and dividing of time—when his dominion was to be taken away—still he was to continue and prevail, though gradually consumed, and finally destroyed at the judgment day. The spirit of Anti-christ, was to prevail, “until the ancient of days came,”—its blighting influence will be felt while time endures. Antichristian powers, earthly kingdoms, are to bear rule until Christ comes to judgment—till the God of heaven shall set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed.

The fifth universal kingdom is not a temporal kingdom, but the eternal inheritance of the saints: when once the saints get possession, they occupy, not for a limited period, but “forever, even forever and ever.” An endless dominion, when the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our Lord and his Christ, he shall reign forever and ever.

We would refer the reader to our Saviour's declarations when on earth, “My kingdom is not of this world,” “Thy kingdom come,” “In this world ye shall have tribulation,” also to the parable of “the tares of the field.”

St. Paul also declares, that the Man of sin—Papacy, shall be revealed, whom the Lord shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.

If we look at the revelation of St. John, we find he has not revealed anything which indicates the world's conversion, to be followed by a state of glory before Christ's coming, but otherwise. John saw things which should be hereafter, and he heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice, wo, wo, wo to the inhabitants of the earth. Can any one really believe that the angel would have cried wo, wo, wo, (and the last wo comes when the seventh angel sounds,) when gladness, joy, and peace, were to fill the earth. Paradoxical indeed, would be such an inference.

We might refer to the opinions of the “Fathers.” The Council of Nice.—The creeds of the respective, evangelical Churches, and show that they all anticipated the personal appearing of the Lord from heaven—a millennium prior to that event, never received their sanction.—Mid. Cry., 1844.

FOREIGN NEWS.

THE SIEGE OF SILISTRIA.

The siege of Silistria has been raised—the Russians defeated by the Turks and driven across the Danube. The order of events was as follows:—

Siege operations were commenced on the 17th May, and continued until 15th June, the attack and defense being carried on incessantly, and with equal bravery on both sides.

Repeated storming parties were directed against the intrenchments—mines and counter mines were exploded, causing immense slaughter to both besiegers and besieged. Mussa Pasha, the brave Turkish commander, was killed by a shell, after which Prince Pashkiewitch, the Russian commander, was struck and disabled by a spent ball, and will probably die.

On the 13th June, a tremendous attack was ordered under Generals Gorchakoff and Schilders, but after severe fighting the Russians were repulsed, and a Turkish brigade sent from Shumla by Omer Pasha, succeeded in entering the fortress. Thus re-enforced, the garrison on the 15th made a sortie. A desperate hand to hand contest ensued, and ended in the complete discomfiture of the Russians. Prince Gorchakoff was severely wounded. General Schilders had his leg shot off, and two others Generals were killed.

The carnage among the Russian troops was dreadful, and they retired fighting, across the river. Pursuing their advantage, the Turks crossed an arm of the river, seized the Isle of Hopa, and blew up the Russian siege works thereon. The Turks then brought out their guns and erected temporary batteries on the Bulgarian bank of the river, before the north face of the fortress. The Russian battalions east and west of Silistria immediately retreated, in good order, across the river and destroyed their bridges.

The Russians, at latest dates, were in the vicinity of Kalurash, awaiting re-enforcements and orders.

Gen. Liprandi's division and several detached corps were marching in haste from Slatina to join them.

This victory was gained entirely by the Turks, the French and English not having made their appearance.

The siege of Silistria being raised, must alter the whole plan of operations in Bulgaria, and consequently must change the plan of the allies. It is surmised that Pashkiewitch will order his whole force to fall back on Jassy.

Ere this the Russians have probably relinquished all their positions on the left bank of the Danube, excepting the forts of Hirsova, Matschin and Isaktscha; and apprehensions of their advance on the Balkans is for the present at an end.

Russian accounts via Bucharest, admit that operations against Silistria are suspended, but say that the siege is not finally raised.

The Russians have evacuated Mogurelli and Simnitza.

Five thousand Turks have occupied Turtukai, and it was reported (but considered doubtful) that the Turkish garrison of Rustchuk had crossed at Giurgevo, and killed four hundred Russians, and taken nine guns.

Admirals Dundas and Hamelin had issued a circular on the 7th June announcing the close blockade of the mouths of the Danube; most of the fleet were cruising off Sevastopol, but some six or eight ships were at Varna assisting in the conveyance of troops.

Transports with heavy guns having arrived, it was likely that Sevastopol would soon be attacked.

THE POSITION OF AUSTRIA.—

A report was current that Russia had again made peace overtures through Austria, but the terms are said to be the immediate retirement of the Allies from Turkey. It can scarcely be regarded as true.

A rumor is again afloat in the English papers that the Czar will abdicate. He is likewise reported to be sick, and for that alleged reason did not meet the King of Prussia. He has, however, ordered Prince Dolgorouki, Minister of War, to proceed immediately to the Danubian Principalities and draw up an accurate report of the position of affairs in a military point of view. This unusual mission produced a sensation at St. Petersburg.

It is officially announced that the Convention between Austria and the Porte for the Austrian occupation of the Moldavia-Wallachian Principalities, was signed at Constantinople on 14th June.

At a Cabinet Council at Vienna on the 19th, the Emperor presiding, it was resolved, that if an evasive answer comes from Russia, Austria will forward a final ultimatum demanding a categorical reply within eight days.

It is stated that Napoleon has intimated to the Austrian Government that the French will interfere to suppress any revolutionary movements in Hungary or Italy while the Austrian troops are engaged against the Russians. A similar declaration is expected from England. A Russian loan of 16,000,000 roubles—5 per cent—is negotiating at Hamburg, at 67.

THE BALTIC.—

There has been no news of importance received from the Baltic. Two English steamers destroyed the wharf and some gun-boats at Kemi, Gulf of Bothnia.

The English ships Odin and Vulture landed 150 men at Kalva Karleby, but they were attacked by the Russians and driven back to their ships with the loss of three officers and three seamen killed, two officers and 14 seamen wounded, and 25 taken prisoners. Admiral Napier has sent four ships against the place. All Russian pilots are sent into the interior.

The British, under Admiral Plumridge, had taken possession of Fornea, unopposed. It was to be fortified as a station for English troops. Great activity prevailed in the Swedish ports.

Tent Meeting at Jackson.

By John Norton Loughborough; M. E. Connell

Providence permitting we will hold a Tent Meeting in the village of Jackson, Mich., commencing July 28th, at 5 o'clock P. M., and hold over Sabbath and First-day.

The call from Waverly, Mich., will be remembered and reasonable notice given.

J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH, M. E. CONNELL.

MARSHALL EDSON

By Marshall Edson

From Bro. Edson.

DEAR BRO. WHITE:—It is cheering to me to hear from the brethren and sisters that are scattered abroad, through the Review. It is truly a welcome messenger to me to read the precious truths it contains. It brings a great deal of light to my mind from the word of God. I praise God for his goodness to me, for the truth of the third angel's message, that brings to light the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. The holy Sabbath that has been so long trampled down is now being restored, as we read in Isa. lvii, 12, 13, 14. I feel as though I wanted to be one to build the old waste places, to be called the Repairer of the breach, the Restorer of paths to dwell in. I delight in the law of God. It is my meditation day and night. I do feel thankful to God that his holy Sabbath has been brought to light, that I can rest the day in which God has rested, his holy, sanctified day.

Dear brethren and sisters scattered abroad, we are traveling through a dark world of sorrow, in a world of sickness, pain and death, but I am looking forward with joyful anticipation to the time that I believe will soon come, when if we are faithful we shall be where death can never come. As you have seen through the Review that I have been left to mourn the loss of my dear companion, I mourn not as those that have no hope. I praise God for the blessed hope that buoys my spirits up in this time of affliction and trial. She has with me for three years past, been striving to keep all of the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and striving to overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony, and trying by the help of God to influence others to see the truth, and to keep God's holy law. But her work is done. She has got through with the troubles and trials of this earth. Thus she fell asleep in Jesus.

“Asleep in Jesus, blessed sleep, From which none ever wake to weep!”

I do praise God for the blessed promise in his Word, [1 Thess. iv, 14,] that them that sleep in Jesus, God will bring with him. Jesus is soon coming to raise the righteous dead, and change the righteous living, and take his weary children home. Yes, blessed home! Glorious thought! Shall I be there? Glory to God, I mean to be there. By his strength we are abundantly able to go up and possess the goodly land.

Your unworthy brother, striving for the kingdom.

MARSHALL EDSON

Ashfield, Mass., June 25th, 1854.

TENT MEETING.

By JOSIAH HART; E. P. BUTLER; H. BINGHAM; ALBERT STONE

A TENT MEETING will be holden on the farm of Z. W. Leach in Waitsfield Vermont, on the road leading from Moretown to Waitsfield Common. The Meeting will commence July 21st, and continue over the Sabbath and First-day, and longer if thought best. We shall expect that the brethren will come to the Meeting with provisions for themselves. There will be two small tents on the ground in which those who have provision and bedding can be accommodated. There will be provision made for horses.

We would invite Brn. Baker, Sperry, Wheeler and other preaching brethren to come and labor with us.

There will also be a Tent Meeting at Sutton, Vt., (unless the Brn. otherwise arrange,) to commence July 28th, and continue over Sabbath and First-day, and longer if thought best. A general attendance is expected.

JOSIAH HART, E. P. BUTLER, H. BINGHAM, ALBERT STONE, Committee of arrangements.

Vermont Tent.

The Brethren in Vermont have obtained a Tent 60 feet in diameter, which will cost about $150,00; also two small Tents, which will cost about $50,00. The friends of the cause are invited to contribute to meet the expenses of these Tents. The brethren in Newhampshire and Massachusetts are invited to join in the enterprise, and have Tent Meetings in their States if they wish them.

All letters relative to the Tent should be addressed to Josiah Hart, Northfield, Vermont.

Publications.

THE SANCTUARY and Twenty-three Hundred Days—76 pp.—5 cts.—postage 1 cent.

Review of O. R. L. Crozier—the Sabbath—48 pp.—5 cts.

A Refutation of Claims of Sunday-keeping, . . . History of the Sabbath—40 pp.—5 cts.—postage 1 cent.

The Signs of the Times; Spirit Manifestations a sign that the day of Wrath hasteth greatly—124 pp.—10 cts.—postage 1 ct.

The Two-horned beast, the United States—52 pp.—5 cents

Advent and Sabbath Hymns—30 cts.—postage 5 cts.

Supplement to Advent and Sabbath Hymns—5 cents.

Time and Prophecy—a Poem—25 cents—postage 5 cents

A Word for the Sabbath—a Poem—6 cents.

First Day of the Week Not the Sabbath—32 pp.—3 cts.—

The Seventh Day is the Sabbath—32 pp.—3 cts.

History of the Sabbath—40 pp.—4 cents.

The 2300 days and the Sanctuary—32 pp.—3 cents.

Christian Experience and Views—6 cents.

Supplement to Experience and Views—6 cents.

Solemn Appeal—Speedy Coming of Christ—32 pp.—3 cts.

True Picture—state of the Churches—16 pp.

The Sabbath by Elihu—16 pp.

Both Sides—on the Sabbath—16 pp.

The Sabbath by P. Miller Jr.—16 pp.

First-day of the week not the Sabbath—16 pp.

Review of Objections to the Sabbath—16 pp.

New Time Theory Reviewed—16 pp.

Tracts of 16 pages each can be sent by mail for one half cent an ounce, in packages of not less than 5 ounces.

Sabbath and Advent Miscellany—seven of the above Tracts bound with paper covers—10 cents—postage 1 cent.

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AGENTS.

MAINE. N. N. Lunt, Portland. S. W. Flanders, Canaan. Cyprian Stevens, Paris. S. Howland, Topsham. W. T. Hanniford, Orrington. Wm. Bryant, Wilton.

NEW HAMPSHIRE. J. Stowell, Washington. S. Bunnel, Claremont.

MASSACHUSETTS. O. Nichols, Dorchester. O. Davis, N. Fairhaven. Wm. Saxby, Springfield.

VERMONT. R. Loveland, Johnson. H. Bingham, Morristown. S. H. Peck, Wolcott. Lewis Bean, Hardwick. Edwin Cronkhill, Stowe. E. P. Butler, Waterbury. Josiah Hart, Northfield. R. G. Lockwood, Waitsfield. Jesse Barrows, Erasburg. Alonzo Lee, Derby Line. E. Everts, Vergennes. H. Gardner, Panton. S. Willey, Wheelock.

CONNECTICUT. E. L. Chamberlain, Middletown. A. Belden, Kensington.

RHODE ISLAND. Ransom Hicks, Providence.

NEW YORK. J. Byington, Buck's Bridge. A. Ross, Caughdenoy. David Upson, Moreland. R. F. Cottrell, Mill Grove. John Wager, Orangeport. L. Carpenter, Oswego. A. H. Robinson, Sandy Creek. E. A. Poole, Lincklaen. J. A. Loughhead, Elmira. John Hamilton, Fredonia.

PENNSYLVANIA. M. L. Dean, Ulysses. J. H. Heggie, Allegheny.

MICHIGAN. Albert Avery, Locke. Ira Gardner, Vergennes. David Hewett, Battle Creek. C. S. Glover, Sylvan. A. B. Pearsall, Grand Rapids. A. A. Dodge, Jackson. Wm. M. Smith, " A. C. Morton, Delhi.

WISCONSIN. E. S. Sheffield, Koshkonong. T. R. Sheldon, Rosendale.

CANADA EAST. B. Hills, Melbourne.

Letters.

R. Hicks 2, E. Harris, C. Bates, P. Folsom, C. R. Austin.

Receipts.

C. S. Hurlburt, E. Barnes, I. Sunbury, J. N. Luther, A. V. S. Clark, each $1.00. L. & P. Tollman, H. Pennfield, each $2.00. C. Stevens $3. R. G. Curtis $4. A Bro. in Mich. $5. N. Needham $6.75. O. Frizzle $0.50.

Money to pay for Vol. VI, will be receipted in No 1 of that Vol.

Editorial Correspondence

Bro. D. P. Hall.—Have you sent the article on the time of the Sabbath? It is needed. Some of your and Bro. S.'s MSS. will be wanted by the 20th.

C. R. Austin.—The Tracts were sent; but we send again.