A Revival of the Temperance Work by L. J. OTIS, M. D.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 6, 1908

A Revival of the Temperance Work

By L. J. OTIS, M. D.

L. J. OTIS, M. D.

Much has been said concerning the importance of our health literature, and the need of its circulation at this time. All this I wish to second, and especially the circulation of the temperance number of the Watchman. This is a work which, done in faith, will bear a harvest of precious fruit; for just as surely as this class of work is the entering wedge, just so surely will souls be reached by it who otherwise would never hear the precious message.

I wish, however, beyond the importance of the literature work, to emphasize especially the importance of public work in this direction. In connection with our tent- and camp-meetings by all means bring it in. Christ says, “Ye are the light of the world.” If so, we should lead out in all true reforms, and especially in all reforms by means of which we may introduce the truths of the message for this time to the people. To show that this is in harmony with the best methods of work, I quote from Volume VI of “Testimonies for the Church,” page 110:—

“Especially does the temperance reform demand our attention and support. At our camp-meetings we should call attention to this work, and make it a living issue. . . . Our camp-meetings should have the labors of medical men. . . . They should give instruction to the people in regard to the dangers of in temperance. This evil must be more boldly met in the future than it has been in the past. Ministers and doctors should set forth the evils of intemperance.”

We used, some time ago, to present this line of work more thoroughly than at present, and at a time when the largest outside attendance was expected. I quote further from the same volume: “If the work of temperance were carried forward by us as it was begun thirty years ago; if at our camp-meetings we presented before the people the evils of intemperance in eating and drinking, and especially the evil of liquor-drinking; if these things were presented in connection with the evidences of Christ’s soon coming, there would be a shaking among the people.”

This work is again to equal what it used to be. Nor is it to stop there; for we read from the same authority, page 112: “As we near the close of time, we must rise higher and still higher upon the question of health reform and Christian temperance, presenting it in a more positive and decided manner.”

These quotations are well worth our consideration; for it is the presentation of these truths, with the message of Christ’s soon coming, that is to produce a shaking among the people. May all who see this article do their part to increase this work, and thus help the people to realize their need of the truths of the message. And let us remember, in presenting these truths, to show a zeal in proportion to their importance.

Grand Rapids, Mich.