p. 16 | Visit to Alaledon, Mich

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 6, 1869

Visit to Alaledon, Mich.

By W. H. Littlejohn; Uriah Smith

A good work has been accomplished in this place by the labors of Bro. Matteson the past winter and spring. There is now quite a large company of believers here, apparently sound in the faith, and active in the service of God, where a few months ago, the light of present truth had not been presented.

But we have here as in most other places an illustration of the parable of the sower. Some seed fell upon stony ground, and because there was no depth of earth, immediately sprang up, and about as soon began to wither away. In other words, the truth was heard by some who received it with great alacrity, but having no root in themselves, now that persecution begins to arise, and reproach come, they are withering away. There are, however, but few such, and the separation of these is necessary to the spiritual prosperity of the healthy members of the body. The brethren have no cause to be discouraged.

The work here has now passed into its second stage, which is always a somewhat critical period. That is, its opponents have about learned the fact that it is useless to try to put this work down by the Bible; for the testimony of the Bible is all in its favor. They are therefore taking the best weapons they have left, namely, false reports and slanders of every description. Consequently all kinds of reports are now in circulation, stories of the most contemptible and miserable character, accusations of dishonesty, and everything by which the enemy can hope to bring the truth into disrepute. They are having an open verification of the Saviour's words: All manner of evil shall be spoken against you falsely for my sake. But the church and the community will soon learn to value these things at what they are worth; and the opposition will get tired and ashamed of them, if ever they recover their self-respect. But the church must guard against having their attention diverted by opposition and controversy, from the great truths they have received, and from the work of preparation so necessary for the soon-coming day of the Lord. In no way do we see that the enemies of the truth can work them any permanent injury, except by thus diverting their minds from these things.

We have enjoyed much, the privilege of making the acquaintance of those who have received the truth here; and we think our visit was timely. Four discourses have been given, and one social meeting held; and though the weather was quite unfavorable, yet we think we have seen some of the providence of the Lord in the meetings; and have enjoyed some of his blessing, and trust good will result.

We think it would be well for some minister to visit the brethren here, as soon as may be. They will greatly appreciate help of this kind at the present time. We learn of two who wish baptism. They are erecting a commodious house of worship, which they design to have ready for meetings this fall.

The brethren manifested a commendable zeal in circulating the appointment for meeting, and especially those in Bath, ten to fifteen miles distant, for the pains they took to be present. There appears to be a good field for labor open there. W. H. LITTLEJOHN, U. SMITH.