Untitled article by ADOLPHUS SMITH

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, October 8, 1867

TOO LATE.

By ADOLPHUS SMITH

The steamboat was to leave in half an hour. I had so delayed my business that it became necessary to do the work of an hour in only a few minutes. Hence it was imperfectly done, and only in time to arrive at the wharf and find that the boat had crossed the river where it paused a moment to take in freight before proceeding on its way down the stream. I hailed it. The reply came. “We cannot go over for you.” Alas, too late!

Moral. The last message of mercy is being proclaimed to fallen man. Some heed the warning and “lay hold of the hope set before them in the gospel;” but many even of these delay the work of preparing to meet the Son of God at his appearing and kingdom. While their brethren advance they hold back, “having a form of godliness,” but practically denying the power thereof. Such will awake to their danger only in time to discover their irreparable loss. Then they may wander to and fro, seeking the word of the Lord in vain. Then they may engage with ardor in the work they have so long delayed; but like Esau, they will find no place of repentance even though sought earnestly and with tears. Then their cry to the sealed ones can only meet with the response, “We cannot go over to you.” “There’s a great gulf between us and you.”

Sinner, flee from the wrath to come. Laggard Christian, quicken thy pace.

“Hasten sinner to be wise, Stay not for the morrow’s sun. Wisdom if you still despise, Harder is it to be won.”

ADOLPHUS SMITH.

Ottawa Co., Mich.