STRANGE IDEAS by W. S. Foote

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 28, 1868

STRANGE IDEAS.

By W. S. Foote

We need not remind our brethren that strange and dangerous doctrines can be embraced by us by listening to the teachings of others, without a careful and systematic study of the word of God; for most of us have had all the experience in that direction that we wish for. There seems to be an impression upon the minds of a majority of the people, that the Bible is a mysterious and sealed book; that God who is willing that all men should come to repentance, embrace the offers of mercy through the merits of Jesus; and at last receive the gift of God which is eternal life, has given us directions how to gain the glorious prize, in such language that it is difficult for us to understand it! That is certainly a strange idea.

A preacher recently told some candidates for baptism, that there were three modes of baptism: sprinkling, pouring, and immersion; and that they could have their choice, as the Lord would accept of either, providing their hearts were right. But we would inquire, how can a person's heart be right when not following the teachings of God's word?

Another remarked that, “The first resurrection was conversion, or a resurrection of those who were dead in sin, to a life of holiness.” Another, that “there is a difference between immortality and eternal life;” but, said he, “what that difference is, I must acknowledge I cannot tell.”

The Bible gives us to understand the cause of this discord, confusion, and perversion of its sacred contents. “A good understanding have all they that do his commandments.” Ps. cxi, 10. “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine.” John vii, 17. The natural inference is, that those who do not keep, or do, his commandments, cannot have a good understanding of the word. W. S. FOOTE.

Pendleton, O.