It is due to those who have borne the burden and responsibility of publishing the ADVENT REVIEW and the various Tracts that have been issued from this Office, that a brief statement of their course be made. Few persons have a just idea of this, and therefore many are liable to receive false impressions.
The ADVENT REVIEW, for several volumes, was published gratuitously. During most of this time the Tracts that were issued from the Office, were published on the same principle. The design of thus sending out the truth was to place it in the reach of all, and to arrest the attention of those who might be too indifferent to otherwise come within its reach. In order to sustain the expenses of this mode of publication, it was necessary for those who loved the cause of truth to pay for their own paper and Tracts, and for as many other persons as they were able.
But in this mode of publication there was one great evil. To a very great extent the burden of the publishing department was borne by the poor of the flock. Those who supported themselves and families by their daily toil, bore a very large portion of this expense, while many who professed to love the truth, who were possessed of ample means, received the paper and publications without expense. When Tracts were to be issued, it was necessary to ask for a large donation, that those to whom they were sent out might receive them free of charge. In such cases many who possessed considerable means did much; but with all this, a very large portion of the expense was met by those who had nothing but the product of their daily toil. That such should be the case was certainly wrong. It cannot be the will of God that a part should bear all the burden and all the rest be free from expense. An equality in bearing the burdens of the way is far more acceptable to God, and far more in accordance with the spirit of the gospel. And it is a fact which all experience demonstrates as a general truth, that those who receive papers and publications free of expense to themselves, are very apt to think them of little or no value, and to conclude that it costs nothing to publish them, simply because it costs them nothing to receive them.
Others who receive them in this way think that the perusal of them is all the duty that they have in the matter; and seem to come to the conclusion that because they have been sent them without charge, that therefore some one has become under obligation to continue to supply them free of expense. This may seem all right to them; but to the publisher, and to every one who looks into the facts, it seems otherwise. Who can believe, that it is the will of God that laboring men, who have no other way to support their families and to meet the expenses of life, should bear a great part of this burden in order to enable others to receive the paper and publications without cost to themselves?125
That this evil might be remedied, and that there might be "an equality," a different, and, as we think, a more reasonable and scriptural plan has been adopted. The paper and publications are offered at the lowest, possible price; a price which almost every one can meet; and which if all would meet on the paper in advance, would not with our present list of subscribers sustain the expense of its publication.
Since the price was fixed to the paper and publications, the price of stock, provisions and almost everything has greatly advanced. Besides this, many who receive the paper have as yet been backward in sending the pay, forgetting that the terms are in advance.
Without the most rigid economy, the expenses of the Office would not be met by much. The sacrifices which those have made who have given their time and strength to the work of publishing, have neither been few nor small. For several years Bro. White has given all his time and strength to this work without regard to health or ease. The care and toil which have devolved upon him have been great. That the means which the friends of the cause have furnished might be made to answer their design, every expense that could be, has been cut down. This all will bear witness to, who are acquainted with the facts in the case.
Some of our friends think it wrong to sell publications. "Buy the truth, and sell it not," is with them a favorite maxim. But some such seem to forget all but the last part of the text. They would receive publications free of expense to themselves and then they might well give them away. To such as apply this maxim to Tract distribution we would with all kindness suggest that it is equally incumbent on them to obey the first part of the text as the last. Nay, further, if they would perform the last as an act of sacrifice to God, they must by no means omit the first. David was careful not to offer to God as a burnt offering, that which cost him nothing.
But we are not opposed to the giving away of Tracts in any proper way. If those who think this the only proper course, will bear the expense of the Tracts that they wish to have given away in their section of the field, they shall be furnished them at the least possible expense; but we do not believe that any of the friends of truth would wish that the burden should all rest upon this Office: it cannot be the case that any should be thus unjust. Perhaps, however, it may be suggested that the friends of truth would meet this expense at once. Admit that they would, what class would respond to such a call? We answer that it would be those who have borne the greater part of the expense in every similar effort. We cannot think it duty for such to bear all the burden. If any think otherwise, let them bear the responsibility of making the call; but let them not insist on its being done here.
It may be said that the sale of publications seems too much like a speculation. None will make this charge who understand the case. A few facts on this point must suffice. In the first place, nearly all that is printed in the REVIEW is original matter. It would be much less labor to fill its columns with selected matter already prepared for the printer, than to take original communications and fit them for the press. Besides this, no advertisements are published in the REVIEW. If such were the case it would defray considerable expense and save labor in typesetting.
Another item of some consequence is this: instead of using such paper as would perish with two or three perusals, the REVIEW has been printed on paper of a fair quality, that would endure some wear.
To show the low price at which the REVIEW is offered, we refer to the Signs of the Times, the earliest Advent paper. This sheet was not quite the size of the ADVENT REVIEW. Its subscription list was, after a little while, probably considerable larger than that of the REVIEW at the present time; and the expense of printing has advanced within ten years from 10 to 20 per cent. But the Signs of the Times was published at $2 a year, while the REVIEW is offered at $1 per year.
In regard to Tracts, Bro. White stated before the brethren assembled in conference in this city, July, 1853, and June, 1854, that he could furnish those Tracts, that would warrant a sale sufficient to publish editions of not less than 5000 copies, at the rate of 2000 pages for $1, which is at least 25 per cent lower than has heretofore been furnished at any Advent Office. Notwithstanding the advanced prices of stock, provisions, &c. &c., Bro. White thinks he can still furnish Tracts as above, provided the pay is sent with orders for Tracts. From editions of less than 5000 copies, or containing engravings, they will be furnished as low as possible.
We recommend to the churches, and the scattered brethren in different States, to raise a Tract Fund, according to their wants, to be placed in the hands of a suitable Agent, who shall purchase such Tracts, and as often, as the cause may demand. Traveling preachers, and those who wish a quantity of publications to distribute, can then obtain them of the Agents at cost, including freight, &c.
We have made these remarks, not to reflect upon any person, but simply to set the subject in a proper light before the brethren. If the plan which now governs our course can be improved we shall be glad to do it. Meanwhile we ask the earnest co-operation of all the friends of truth.
It may be proper here to state the relation which the Publishing Committee and the Editor sustain to the ADVENT REVIEW and to each other, as defined at the Conference at Ballston, N. Y., March, 1852:—
Previous to choosing the Editor and Committee it was plainly stated, and understood by all present, that it should be the duty of the Editor to select such matter for the REVIEW as in his judgment would be proper and for the advancement of the cause of truth; but if the Committee should think the matter, or any portion of it, published in the REVIEW, not proper, and not suited to the wants of the cause, they should call the Editor to account, and have power to remove him and select another, at any time that in their judgment such a change would be better for the cause of truth. And if the Editor rejects articles written for the REVIEW, and the writers still urge their publication, the Editor shall submit them to the Committee, and abide their decision. And if the Editor cannot conscientiously abide by the decisions of the committee, he is at liberty to resign his office, his place to be filled by the choice of the Committee. The Committee to be amenable to the Church.
PUB. COM.
THE SANCTUARY.
By Editor
It has been supposed that the earth, or a portion of it, was the Sanctuary of Dan. viii. This is an error that has stood in the way of the reception of the "present truth," and out of which has grown the recent fanaticisms on the definite time of the Second Advent. The definition of the word sanctuary, is a "sacred place," a "dwelling place of the Most High." This earth, or any portion of it, has not been such a place since man left Eden 6000 years since.
As the typical sanctuary of the Jews was the center of their religious system, so the "greater and more perfect Tabernacle" above, of which Jesus Christ is a High Priest, forms the center of all gospel truth. There is God the Father, there is Jesus Christ, a merciful High Priest, and there is the mercy seat, the ark, the law of God, [Rev. xi, 19,] and the holy angels. We are indeed, introducing a glorious theme. It would be far better for the spiritual interests of the people of God if they would more constantly look upward, and by faith view the glories of the heavenly Sanctuary. We recommend the reading of the book of Hebrews as an excellent commentary on this subject. We invite the especial attention of the reader to those works where a scriptural view of the Sanctuary to be cleansed at the termination of the 2300 days, is given, with the nature of its cleansing.
Events immediately preceding the second coming of Christ are mentioned in Dan. viii, yet that event is not brought to view in that chapter. It is true that it is said in verse 25, when speaking of the little horn, "he shall be broken without hand;" but the wrath of God in the seven last plagues will, at least, commence to break earthly governments, prior to the Second Advent. Read their dreadful description in Rev. xvi. After the sixth vial is poured out it is said, "Behold, I come as a thief;" his coming is then still future.
The event to transpire at the end of the 2300 days, is the cleansing of the Sanctuary. That the tabernacle of God is the Sanctuary of the Bible, a multitude of texts directly testify. Ex. xxxvi, 1-6; Lev. iv, 6; xvi, 33; Num. iv, 15; Ps. lxxviii, 54, 69; Heb. viii, 1, 2. That the cleansing of the Sanctuary is the work of a high priest, performed by blood, and not with fire, is also a matter of certainty. Lev. xvi; Heb. ix. The work of cleansing the Sanctuary is not that of a king taking vengeance on his adversaries, but that of a priest concluding his work in the tabernacle of God. Hence, this work must precede the Second Advent, and be accomplished ere the priestly work of our Lord is closed in the Sanctuary of God. Until that point of time, the wrath of God is stayed by the intercession of our great High Priest. When that point is reached, the sins of the host or church, having been transferred from the Sanctuary to the anti-typical scape-goat, and the saints of God being all sealed, the wrath of God without mixture of mercy is poured out, and the adversaries of the Lord are destroyed with an utter destruction. The period of time in which the Sanctuary is being cleansed, we understand to be what the angel denominates "the last end of the indignation." Dan. viii, 19. That it occupies a space of time is evident from the form of expression used by Gabriel: "I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation."
Thanks for Prayers and Sympathy
By Editor
THIS NUMBER of the REVIEW contains a rich feast of communications from dear brethren and sisters in different parts of the field. The friends who have so promptly aided us in time of need, and have expressed their sympathy and regard in this time of deep affliction, will receive our grateful thanks. Our health is still very poor; but we confide in God. Brethren, pray for us, and pray in faith. God will hear your united prayers, and give health and strength to work for him.
A Clear Conscience Cannot Be Bought
A clear conscience is sometimes sold for money, but never bought with it.
Truth and Candor
Truth is the flour that seeds the Garden of Heaven and candor the workman who tills it.
CHURCH AT MILL GROVE.
By R. F. Cottrell
At this place there was a little company of Sabbath-keepers, numbering about half a dozen, not connected with any church, who had been meeting together regularly on the Sabbath for years before the first volume of the REVIEW AND HERALD was published in Maine, which paper providentially fell into our hands. We were advent believers also; we looked not to death for a realization of our hope, but to the coming of Christ and the resurrection. We also believed that the advent drew near, but had no very definite idea of the termination of the prophetic periods—thought (how unreasonably!) that they would never be understood by mortal men. Consequently we looked upon the past advent movement, not as a fulfillment of prophecy, but as a human excitement upon the best of subjects, having no better foundation, in respect to time, than mere guess-work, and that it had proved a total failure in this respect.
This was our position, as near as I can state it in brief, when we commenced reading the REVIEW. We were slow enough in adopting its sentiments and views in respect to time and the past movement; for three fourths of a year was spent in cautious and prayerful examination, before one of us dared believe that to be a special work of God and a fulfillment of prophecy. The reception of this truth did not separate us, though some were more slow to believe than others. About this time three Seventh-day Baptists, who had met with us at intervals, took a decided stand with us; and some others embraced the truth, a part were young—children of believers.
Some of that happy company have removed to a distant part of the country; others have fallen asleep. But the Lord has added others through the instrumentality of the third message, so that there are now fifteen souls who are, we trust, determined to share with the "remnant" in tribulation and in victory. One of these seldom has the privilege of meeting with us, but the others we always expect to see on the Sabbath, unless very bad weather or some other just cause exists for their absence. Two of these embraced the truth the past summer. They have thus far been faithful, and we trust they will hold fast till they see the King in his beauty.
As a church we never were so well united and strong in the truth as at the present time.
But it is with deep regret that we say that some, who have received the truth in this place, have turned away from the holy commandment which is the burden of the message. Not having root in themselves, they were not prepared for the trials and afflictions of the people of God, so they endured but a short time. Would that they might see their condition, and that God might grant them repentance unto life.
We have also grief and sorrow of heart for some of our young people, most of whom have professed religion; but never have, with one exception, faithfully filled their places in the church. We have been glad that the truth has held a restraining influence over them, but sorry that their want of zeal and faithfulness have evinced that their affections were not on things above, but on things on earth. Some of them have never, to our knowledge, confessed their faith in the present truth.
Those who have not faith enough to take a decided stand on anything, are so much under the influence of the Enemy, that it is no wonder if some Satanic breeze should sweep them away. We fear that some of them will be lost. But if it be so, we determine it shall not be for want of forbearance and long-suffering on the part of the church. We shall still try to persuade them to take a decided stand for the truth, and go heart and hand with the church.
But, as we said before, the church is growing in strength and unity of faith, and soon we hope to meet the faithful on Mt. Zion, and help swell the song, of triumph, with the harps of God.
R. F. COTTRELL.
Mill Grove, Erie Co., N. Y., Nov. 27th, 1854.
DEAR BRN. OF THE PUBLISHING COMMITTEE:—
By A. Miles
From Bro. Miles.
DEAR BRN. OF THE PUBLISHING COMMITTEE:—
We have received two numbers of the "Messenger of Truth." In them we find some statements and if they are true, we as a church would like to know it. You have stated in the Review, No. 13, that if any brother or sister wished an explanation of any of their statements, they could obtain it by addressing the Publishing Committee. One statement from the "Messenger" is, that quite a number of members in Michigan, have been disfellowshiped for not believing Sr. White's visions; also that the Sabbath-keepers are making the visions a test of fellowship. If these things are so, we would like to know it; for we have not so understood it. We have ever, and do yet, understand that the Bible alone should be our rule of faith and practice; for by it we are to be judged. If these reports are true, we fear the consequences; for there are quite a number of readers of the Review in this region, who might see the truth, had not these reports reached their ears126but how it will turn with them now, we know not, We feel that all we do, should be done to the glory of God, and in accordance to his Word.
Yours truly, from the church. A. MILES.
Plainfield, Will Co., Ill., Nov., 1854.
Imitated.
By Editor
Under the heading of "Worthy of Imitation," we stated in No. 14, that "A Lover of Truth" had sent $20, directing that it should be appropriated to different objects. This act has been imitated as the following will show.
I send you $20, to be appropriated as follows:—
To send the REVIEW to the Lord's poor, $5.
For books to be sent to Wisconsin, . . . $5.
For the Tract Fund, . . . . $5.
Hand to Bro. J. N. Andrews, . . . . $5.
Oswego, N. Y. E. Goodwin.
It is proper here to state that Bro. G. is a man of feeble constitution, who earns his bread, and obtains means to aid the cause of truth, as a city drayman, or carman. We have known him since the Autumn of 1848, and venture to say that he has given to support the cause, not far from $100, each year since that time; besides, his house has been a home for the servants of God, who have been made happy by the kind attention of Bro. and Sr. G. We make this statement not to flatter any one, but "to provoke to love and to good works," those who have their thousands, and who have had the truth carried to them by the liberal contributions of such poor brethren.
Anger and Ambition
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry, anger resteth in the bosom of fools.
The road ambition travels is too narrow for friendship, and too crooked for love.
Obituary.
By H. G. Buck
I SIT down to inform the friends of sister Alvira McLenan, of Norfolk, that she sweetly fell asleep in Jesus on the 24th inst. At her funeral, yesterday, a short discourse was delivered by the writer from 1 Thess. iv, 18, to an attentive and weeping congregation.
The subject of this notice was converted when she was seven years old, and baptized when she was eleven. She, with her parents, were deeply interested in the first and second angels' messages, and three years ago, she embraced the third also. She has lived a pattern of piety since that time. She was patient and resigned in her protracted sickness. She meekly resigned her husband and child into the hands of the Lord and died in hope of soon being raised to enjoy the blessedness of the New Earth and its immortal inhabitants. She was 22 years old.
So another youthful jewel has fallen; but the saint says,
"Let sickness blast, let death devour,
If heaven must recompense our pains;
Perish the grasp, and fade the flower,
If firm the word of God remains."
H. G. BUCK.
Buck's Bridge, Nov. 25th, 1854.
Laboring in Ohio’s Highways and Hedges
By Joseph Bates
From Bro. Bates.
Dear Bro. White :—Since my last from Freemont, Sandusky Co., O., Oct. 30th, I have been laboring in what used to be called the "Black swamp," now "highways and hedges." In these new places the people have a mind to hear. Our first protracted meeting was in the meeting-house of the United Brethren. The people seemed anxious to hear what new doctrine we had to present. At our last meeting, First-day evening, many had to stand for want of seats. At the close of the meeting a Methodist minister who had attended five meetings, found some fault about stretching the symbols, (referring to my explanation of the chart,) and said that I had said something about repentance, but I had not preached any faith, neither had I explained the cleansing of the Sanctuary. He then begged permission for the use of the house, which was readily granted for a meeting the next First-day, and review my subjects: and said he would show them a spiritual sanctuary. I replied that I had never read of such a sanctuary, and should like if I had time to hear his view &c. Subsequently I learned that he attended his appointment &c. gave a short discourse with an apology that he had the ague, but would come some other time.
Our next meeting (Nov. 6) was near Rolersville, where we preached six times, and no ministers to oppose. Several acknowledged the truth, and one family began to keep the Sabbath; others I hope will join with them. I have just now returned from York Ridge, and have an appointment for a meeting to commence to-morrow, the 17th, and hold over Sabbath and First-day, in Lexington, Richland Co., some sixty miles hence.
I see by the last Review, 7th inst. that the Publishing Committee and some of the Brn. have spoken in regard to the character of the sheet and its conductors issued in Mich. I wish to add my testimony with theirs. I have no sympathy nor union with the work, or spirit, of those disaffected members who have been disfellowshipped by the church and published in the Review. It is evident if they pursue their present course that distraction and dismay will be the fruit of their doings. I would say to those who are sympathizing with them, that are almost wholly unacquainted with any thing but their own statements in their first Nos. respecting them, that I hope their better judgment will lead them from such a course, and they be saved from falling into this snare of Satan.
My sympathy and union is with those who have toiled and labored with their means and time to carry forward the precious cause of God. Having had some knowledge and labor in regard to the course of these erring brethren, I feel safe in saying, that the church has granted them all the privilege to defend themselves, that reasonable men could ask. If we have in any way wronged them personally, I hope we shall at all times be ready to make reparation, that they may have no just cause of complaint to hinder our work, or prevent their speedy repentance.
Joseph Bates.
Lexington, Richland Co., O., Nov. 22d, 1854.
JESSE DORCAS
By Jesse Dorcas
From Bro. Dorcas.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—I do not intend to trouble you with many words; but it may not seem out of place for me to say, that Bro. Bates has been among us with the power and demonstration of the Spirit; and I can say for myself, that I now see clearly the glorious light of the coming day. But I am not able to express my gratitude to God, for sending so efficient and patient a laborer into this part of the harvest, to make known to us the power and coming of the Lord. I left Bro. Bates a few days ago in Richland County declaring the truth, though much opposed by the professing churches.
I would say further, that if any of the friends of your acquaintance are coming West, do have them give us a call. My Post Office address is Freemont, Ohio; and as Bro. Bates is the only preacher that has been in this section west of the Sandusky river giving the third angel's message, it is new to us and we need an occasional visit from the friends. May the127Lord help us to strive earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.
Pray for us.
JESSE DORCAS
Nov., 1854.
PUB. COM
By Publishing Committee
Note 1. According to the united testimony of the churches in the vicinity of Jackson, who have labored with these persons, they were disfellowshipped for unchristian conduct, and not for disbelieving in the views of Sr. W.
Note 2. This is positively untrue.
Note 3. As far as we are acquainted in every place where persons who are becoming interested in the present truth, as presented from the Scriptures, this slanderous sheet is sent to confuse the mind and counteract the influence of truth. This evinces that it is the work of the Enemy.
PUB. COM
The Word of God
"I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of your faith and practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the 'LAST DAYS;' not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of his people, and to correct those who err from Bible truth."—Ex. and Views, p. 64.
THE SABBATH.
By Annie R. Smith
They tell us the fourth command,
Containing the Sabbath decree,
Is abolished in every land,
And all from its yoke are free;
Then to solve these queries, we ask,
When, where and how was it done?
They commence the difficult task,
But leave it where they begun!
They tell us Time's onward roll
Has changes in reckoning wrought,
So that none, from Pole to Pole,
Can keep the true day sought;
But how (it looks very strange!)
Can this, they unwittingly name,
All other dates disarrange,
And not affect Sunday the same!
They tell us that Christ set apart
The day that he rose from the dead:
But yet, if we serve him in heart,
We may choose any other instead;
And then, in the very face
Of this, they evadingly say:
Why! you'll surely fall from grace,
If you keep the seventh day!
They tell us, to answer their ends,
That the D. D's are all on their side—
Thus Pilate and Herod made friends,
The law of God to deride;
But when they so loudly prate,
If from Error's chain they're free,
Why is it that when they debate,
No two of them can agree?
How long shall the Priests bear sway,
And the mass go on in the wake,
A counterfeit creed to obey,
Such conflicting positions take.
Could we but remove the cross
From many, willingly blind,
They would not be at all at a loss
The genuine coin to find!
But Truth, in its beauty, will shine
Despite of traditions vain,
That have hidden a precept divine,
Through Papacy's wicked reign.
Though Protestants oft rehearse:
"The Bible our rule alone!"—
Their actions speak the reverse!
While this Pagan relic they own.
ANNIE R. SMITH.
Wilton, N. H.
Standing Fast for the Truth
By A. P. H. Kelsey
From Bro. Kelsey.
DEAR BRO. WHITE :—I feel to thank and praise God for his goodness to us, in delivering us as I humbly hope and trust from the errors of the world, and enabling us to see his truth as revealed in his Word. O how dark would be our pathway, were it not for the light that shines from the sure word of prophecy: a light to guide our feet in the narrow way that leads to eternal life in God's everlasting kingdom. We know that through much tribulation the saints of God will enter there, and although the enemy may rage, and revile us, we need not fear but rejoice and be glad; believing the words of the Saviour, "Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake." Matt. v, 11.
As we approach nearer the end, we may expect to see more of the spirit of malice and hatred manifested towards those who stand fast for the truth. God says to his chosen people who are being refined and purified in the last days by persecution: "Be ye not afraid, neither doubt, for God is your guide, and the guide of them who keep my commandments and precepts saith the Lord God." 2 Esdras xvi, 75, 76. We have no sympathy with those who are trying to divide the flock, but our sympathies are with those who have, and do reprove in love.
Yours in love of the truth.
A. P. H. KELSEY.
Le Roy, Mich. Nov. 29th, 1854.
COMMUNICATIONS.
By J. Hart
From Bro. Hart.
DEAR BRETHREN:—It may be interesting to you to know what our prosperity was on our way home from the tent-meetings. Our meeting at Boston was held in a hall. Quite a number came out. Some in this place have gone on to the time, but I think they will come back; because they have not given up the Sabbath. May the Lord help his people to move with wisdom that the honest souls may be saved and finally be sealed with the seal of the Living God.
We attended, according to appointment at Rock Bottom. The meeting was held in the town-hall. A good congregation gathered together. All paid the best of attention. At New Ipswich, the meeting was held in the town-house. A few seemed to have ears to hear; but most of them looked at the solemn truths of the third angel's message, as though they were idle tales; which reminded us of our Saviour's language, that as it was in the days of Noah so shall it be in the days of the Son of man. At Bennington we held our meeting in a private house. A goodly number came together, and listened with interest. At Washington the meeting was held at Bro. Stowell's. About forty were gathered on the Sabbath. Our meeting was one of interest and I think profitable to the saints of God. It seemed refreshing to find ourselves on the Sabbath gathered with but few only those that had a special interest in the meeting. It was a time of refreshing to most that were assembled. At Unity our meeting was held in the town-house. We had three meetings on First-day. There were good congregations, which paid good attention to the word spoken.
Our next place of meeting was Reading. Here we had a good time talking the truth. There was some opposition, which I think was no injury to the cause. After our meeting at Royalton we visited a little place called Foxville. One man went around and notified those in the place. About a dozen came together. Some of them were deeply affected. One promised, the Lord helping, to keep the Sabbath. In the evening went to a school-house in the Russ district. Quite a good number came out and paid good attention. At Braintree the meeting was held in the meeting-house. Here also a good congregation came out to hear. There are now seven keeping the Sabbath at that place, where there were only two when we held our tent-meeting there last Summer. I left an appointment there for last Sabbath and First-day. There seemed to be some that still had ears to hear on the truth. We hope to see others coming out on the side of truth.
In looking over our labors through the season, I think that we can safely say, the Lord has been with us. The inhabitants are saying, come to our places and hold meetings. I believe the way is preparing for the loud cry of the third angel's message.
Let us, brethren, gird on the whole armor of the Lord and stand at our post in Zion, and be good soldiers of Christ. The battle is almost over. A few more struggles and the prize is ours. There has been provision made by the blood of Christ for us, and he has promised that he will never leave nor forsake his people. It is no time for us to slack our hands. Now is the time when all our strength is needed.
Yours hoping to overcome and stand on mount Zion with those who have gotten the victory.
J. HART.
A Call to Fasting and Humility
By E. Goodwin
From Bro. Goodwin.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—I feel to sympathize with you in your trials and afflictions which you are called to endure, and pray God that they may work for your good and the good of the suffering cause of God. I have been somewhat discouraged of late, and a little affected by these papers from the west, but I now believe them to be the work of Satan, and I think if ever there was a time when God's people needed to fast and pray, and humble themselves before God, it is now. It is evident to me, that for a year or two past, there has been a backsliding from God, a conforming to the fashions and customs of the world. Pride has crept in, and God's Spirit has been grieved, and he cannot work for us until we humble ourselves and consecrate ourselves anew unto him. For these, and other things, I believe God has suffered that scourge in the west to be raised up, that it might humble us, and lead us to seek him with all our heart. O how important it is that all that are called of God to be leaders, or teachers, should shed a holy influence, and set holy, Christ-like examples before the little flock; in all things showing themselves patterns of good works; in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that they that are of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of them. Therefore, also now, saith the Lord. Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting and with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your heart and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God; for he is gracious and merciful, and slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach that the enemies of thy truth should triumph over them. Wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God? Joel ii, 12-14, 17.
I believe that when priest and people thus humble themselves before God, he will verify his promise unto us: Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee, yea, I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish. Thou shalt seek them and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. Isa. xli, 10-13.
Brethren and sisters, let us arise and gird on the armor anew, and live wholly to the Lord, and square our lives by his Word. Then shall we have confidence in the Lord, and can claim his promises as ours, and believe that all things work together for good to them that love God. Through the grace and mercy of God, I am determined to be an overcomer by keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.
E. GOODWIN,
Nov. 26th, 1854.
F. M. SHIMPER
By F. M. Shimper
From Sister Shimper.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—I sympathize with you in your very deep trials and afflictions; and my prayer and faith is, that all may work together for the best good of God's tempted, proved and suffering people.
To my mind the pages of the Review have been richly laded with precious truths most peculiarly adapted to the present age and state of things. They have had at least one, interested and profited reader; for, as my knowledge of the living and only true God has increased through the late excellent articles of the Review, I have felt a corresponding increase of love to that great and good Being, and a desire to be like him, that with those who overcome, having endured to the end, I may be permitted to dwell in his adorable presence, and enjoy him forever.
How deeply will then be felt "Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." May God give the entire remnant to feel that, our "light affliction which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory," while we look at the things which are not seen, which are eternal and that "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us," shortly.
Yours in Hope.
F. M. SHIMPER
Nov. 24th, 1854.
WM. S. INGRAHAM
By William S. Ingraham
From Bro. Ingraham.
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—After an absence of ten weeks, I find myself once more enjoying the society of my brethren in Ulysses, Pennsylvania. My feeble effort to spread the truth in Northern New York, I trust has not been in vain. In my tour, I visited and held meetings in a number of towns. On my way to St. Lawrence Co., I called on the brethren in Oswego and held two meetings with them. On my return, I held a conference in that place, beginning on the Sabbath and continuing over First-day. Our meeting was a meeting of encouragement to the saints in that vicinity. We had a good time in attending to the ordinances of the Lord's house. I think there is a neglect on the part of the brethren in many places in not attending to these ordinances as often as they should.128During my stay in Oswego, I held three meetings in Bro. Smith's neighborhood, four miles from the city: quite an interest was awakened in that place. I understood one had resolved to keep the Sabbath. Another, in the city, an interesting young man, embraced the truth. If right efforts are made in Oswego and vicinity, God's people will come up to the help of the Lord against the powers of darkness, and additions will be made to the church.
On my arrival in St. Lawrence Co., I joined Bro. A. S. Hutchins in trying to feed the flock with meat in due season. We gave lectures in two counties in the following places: Morley, Norfolk, Moira and Brandon. Additions were made to the church in all these places. After I parted with Bro. Hutchins, in connection with Bro. Byington I visited the town of Dekalb. In this place I had labored and baptized some before I embraced the third angel's message. Having a desire to see my old brethren, I made them a call, and found the people in this place ready to hear in regard to our present position. I gave a number of lectures in this place, three confessed and resolved to keep the Sabbath; others were frank to acknowledge we had the truth, and will probably soon engage heartily in keeping all the commandments. The brethren in Ulysses and Alleghany are all united and no trouble in the camp.
The professed "Messenger of Truth" will find no quarters in this vicinity. We are satisfied with the Review and Herald. We firmly believe the great Shepherd of the sheep has his eye upon this paper, and until we have some cause to complain of the paper, and the manner it is conducted, our prayers shall go up for its success. I close by saying, I remain your brother in tribulation hoping for eternal life.