Temperance Reform and the Second Advent
By W. A. Colcord
Elder L. S. Wheeler writes as follows to the Atlantic Union Gleaner in regard to the tent-meetings which have recently been opened up in Boston: “We are seeking to especially urge the temperance issue in connection with the signs of Christ’s second coming and the judgment. This was what made Felix tremble, and we are moving out in faith on the statement in ‘Testimonies for the Church,’ Vol. VI., page 111: ‘If these things were presented in connection with the evidences of Christ’s soon coming, there would be a shaking among the people.’ We have a pledge against intoxicating drink and tobacco attached to our advertising circulars, and are encouraging all Christians to unite with us in our efforts to save men. The Bible teaches us that intemperance will be one of the great prevailing sins at this time, and the world needs to be warned against it. It also teaches us that those who are preparing to meet Christ will be doing a work to preserve their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. Temperance naturally connects, therefore, with the stirring theme of Christ’s coming.” This is just the kind of work that needs to be done by our field workers everywhere. On the preceding page of the volume above referred to is the following: “Every true reform has its place in the work of the third angel’s message. 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. We should present to the people the principles of true temperance, and call for signers to the temperance pledge. Careful attention should be given those who are enslaved by evil habits. We must lead them to the cross of Christ.”