Untitled article by John Matteson

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, January 14, 1868

REPORT FROM BRO. MATTESON.

By John Matteson

I had much difficulty in obtaining a house in this place (Thompsonville, Wis.,) to hold meetings. In one district, the clerk said he would do all in his power against me, and used the most abusive language. I tried another place, and failed. I tried the third one, and got a school-house in a very convenient place. This town is extensively settled with Danes and Norwegians. This is an important point. The emigration goes largely through this place. It is a stronghold of those who oppose us. The time has come when an effort must be made. Much patient labor is needed, but we will try to leave no stone unturned till all who will hear shall be faithfully warned by the last message of mercy.

Dec. 24, I commenced meetings. Only a few came. Two days later, a Mr. Hansen sent word all around that he would come to meeting and speak against me. The house was crowded. After meeting, he wanted to quarrel with me all night. I refused. He opposed on the immortality question. I offered to discuss the question with him four evenings. But he would not. He appears like one of these untamable spirits, which will neither submit to order nor rule. He preaches every Sunday to a little party which follows him. He said he would come and make questions. I then told him to come Monday evening. Friday night, I spoke to a well-filled house on the question. Sunday, he spoke against me in a violent manner, in the Baptist meeting-house. I knew nothing about it till afterward. Monday, he appointed meeting just previous to my meeting, in the same house where I preach. I just got the news time enough to go. He was tamed a little by my presence, and did not use quite so many “wolves,” “deceivers,” “false prophets,” &c., as before. When he was through, I reviewed him. The house could not contain all that came. Many were thus brought out to hear, and it was a good move for the cause. He dwelt chiefly on eternal torment. The Lord gave good liberty to present the truth in a clear light. This evening was a turning-point with many. After I had spoken, he commenced again, and tried to blame me. I replied. Again he asked for fifteen minutes. He spoke in a confused manner, and I replied. This ended his attempts, and he said he would come no more. He was very sober, and said I preached much good doctrine, and it was well if people could be turned to the Lord. One man said I had been driven away from Racine. He answered, that that was no bad sign, for the Scripture saith that the righteous must suffer persecution.

Since then, the meetings have been better attended than at first, and the interest is increasing. The Lord has blest us with solemnity and clearness, but still we long for much more of the converting power of his Holy Spirit, that his name may be glorified, and sinners prepared for the great and dreadful day of the Lord. Pray for us.

JOHN MATTESON.

Thompsonville, Racine Co., Wis.