Zeal of the Sects by F. M. W.

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Dec 24, 1914

Zeal of the Sects

By F. M. W.

UNDER this heading the American Lutheran Survey for Nov. 16, 1914, speaks of the earnestness and zeal manifested by Seventh-day Adventists in the promulgation of their belief, as compared with the earnestness of the Lutherans. The editor says:—

The zeal of the sects is a notable fact. The daily papers have just announced that the Seventh-day Adventists have appropriated half a million dollars for foreign missions, which is many times over the per capita contribution of the great evangelical churches. And these same people spend thousands, if not millions, of dollars every year in the production and circulation of free literature. Hundreds of people give their time as well as their money to missionary work, until they touch almost every home in the land once each year. Their zeal is marvelous. So is it with many other well-known sects. Why? We might give a psychological explanation of the fact, but we are more concerned with its significance than with its psychology. That which makes sects makes fanatics. This zeal is the expression of unbalanced minds and hearts in which much is lacking. But it is significant of the value which these people put upon what they believe. Their zeal seems to us to be entirely out of proportion to the importance of the things which they emphasize. But our zeal is still more out of proportion to that which we emphasize, and in the other direction. The zeal of the sects ought to constitute an appeal to the sound in the faith. We are more inconsistent in practice, in view of what we profess to believe, than they are in faith in view of what they do. The zeal of the sects is an ever-present protest against the indifference and inactivity of the orthodox.

The editor of the Survey feels that we have accomplished much because we have done more than others,—more per capita for our membership than the members of other churches. But should this be the standard of comparison?—Assuredly not. There is one standard by which we should measure our religious life and endeavors, and that is the life of the Lord Jesus Christ. We would not discredit the efforts put forth by our brethren and sisters. They are indeed commendable, and we believe that God recognizes the faithfulness and sacrifice which many have shown. But we must admit that while we have done well, we might have done much better; and that while many of our members have realized the solemn responsibility that rested upon them of carrying to the world a knowledge of the message for this time, others have been largely indifferent to this responsibility. We rejoice in the efforts which are now being made in all our churches in the interest of the so-called home missionary work. If our brethren and sisters in every church can be awakened to the necessity of engaging in active missionary labor for their friends and neighbors, it will bring salvation to their own souls, and also to the souls of many of their fellows.

Let us not rest contented with what we have already accomplished. Let us not spend too much time in numbering Israel. But let us recognize the great need of the lost world, and dedicate ourselves to God to labor for the salvation of the lost. William Carey was asked regarding his business. He replied that his business was to serve God, but he cobbled shoes to pay expenses. This same spirit we believe should possess our brethren and sisters in whatever line of business they are engaged. The first business of the Seventh-day Adventist farmer is to serve God, and he should operate his farm in order to meet expenses, devoting to God the fruit of his labor and industry. This should be true

of every Seventh-day Adventist, no matter what may be his trade or profession. We should exercise a zeal measured only by the zeal of our Lord and Master.

F. M. W.