Sunday Law and Sabbath Controversy
By Editor
The Sermon this week is somewhat lengthy for one paper; but we saw no appropriate place to divide it; and we are sure the interest of the reader will not flag an instant till he has devoured every word of it. The Commentary is omitted in this No. to make room for the Sermon entire. This answers the same end in one respect, as it gives a full exposition of the case of Samuel and the Witch of Endor. Don’t fail to read it. We are furnishing from time to time many significant items relative to a stricter Sunday observance. See Report of Convention, and A Change at West Point, in this number. All these things indicate the formation of a public sentiment, at no distant day, which will call for a rigorous Sunday law. The great contest is to be on the Sabbath question. We recommend to all to post themselves on this subject; especially to acquaint themselves with the facts and arguments brought out in the History of the Sabbath. It is some time since we have heard from the Voice of the East published by Ransom Hicks, Providence, R. I.; but we have more recently heard from its Editor. A letter from that city, dated, Feb. 4th, 1867, states that his wife has procured a bill of divorce from him for immoral conduct. A CHANGE AT WEST POINT. From the Springfield Republican we learn that the Board of Visitors of West Point Military Academy recommend that in future, “as an additional inducement to the religious and proper observance of the Sabbath [Sunday], ‘all military duties be dispensed with on that day, so far as is consistent with proper military discipline.’” ENCOURAGING. Nearly all the reports we have of late received, not only from preachers, but even of Quarterly and Monthly meetings, announce the addition of from one to five members to the different churches. This is encouraging, as it shows a gathering influence in all parts of the field. IN PAMPHLET FORM. The Sermon published in this number will be made up in book form and a limited edition issued, for the benefit of those who may wish it in this shape for themselves or their friends. Orders may be sent in immediately. Price 5c., postage 2c. We would remind the brethren that we have question books on the History of the Sabbath, adapting that work to the use of Bible Classes and Sabbath Schools. New churches and all who have not got it, should not fail to supply themselves. It is just the thing to aid in studying the important question of the Sabbath. Price, postpaid 10 cents.