A GOOD WORK BEGUN by J. H. W.

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 2, 1868

A GOOD WORK BEGUN.

By J. H. W.

SABBATH, May 30, was a good day for our people at Battle Creek. We think we could give the readers of the REVIEW nothing more acceptable and pleasing—nothing of greater interest to the youth, especially—than to relate what took place on that day. In the forenoon, Bro. White spoke to us in a plain, practical, and feeling manner, on faith; what it is, how to show it, and the evidences of a lack of it among professors, especially the young. In the afternoon, Sr. White spoke on the fruits of faith, or the Christian character. Before closing the meeting, an invitation was given to those who desired the prayers of God's people to come forward. To our surprise and joy, about forty came up in the sight of that congregation; from the little child to the middle aged, but mostly youth. Some of them were backsliders; some have recently started in the good way; and some now, for the first time, are “seeking the Lord and his goodness.” A meeting was appointed for the evening, for their especial benefit, in which a large number of them spoke. Confessions and strong resolves were made to deny self, and try to get ready for the great and terrible day that is just before us.

We feel inclined to offer a few suggestions on this event, which we hope may not come amiss in any place where the young are becoming interested in the truth.

1. This has greatly increased the responsibility of the church here. Without the active sympathy and co-operation of the church, these will soon turn back to the allurements of the world and of gay companionship. They want help. They want the friendly word of encouragement, the evidence of a kind interest in their welfare; they want a godly, self-denying example set before them; a cheerful sobriety, which will ever show them that Christianity is neither trifling nor gloomy. May the Lord help the members of this church to realize that every word and action will now be watched more closely than ever before; and that, if these young people are saved, they must exert a saving influence over them; if they are lost, God may require them at the hands of his professed people.

2. An increased responsibility is laid upon the officers of the church; (fortunately four more elders have been elected for this church.) Here are a number of little children and youth that need to be watched over with the tenderest care: to be instructed in Christian life and trained to the Christian warfare. Many of them but faintly realize the importance of the step they have taken, and what they must do to carry out their resolutions to serve God, and prepare for the time of trouble and the coming of the Lord. How much labor will devolve on these elders to look after and guard these young lambs of the flock, to keep them from straying into the way of the enemy! How kindly and carefully must it be bestowed! We trust these officers will strive to fulfill their whole duty; that they will consult and pray together for wisdom to do the work of the Lord for these little ones as the Good Shepherd himself would do it were he here.

3. A great—a very great responsibility rests on the parents. Though some of them have not parents to work for them by daily example and counsel. The most earnest and prayerful efforts of the church and its officers may all be neutralized by a little careless or injudicious action on the part of parents. Neglect to advise or warn when they need it; indifference to their trials and troubles; a few cross or fretful words when they are beset by the enemy, may discourage them and cause them to backslide. Even a necessary correction given in a harsh, unkind manner, without proper instruction and prayer, may be the means of their discouragement and ruin. Oh that the parents may realize how much the eternal interests of their children are in their keeping!

4. A new responsibility rests on the persons who have made this move. God has heard their vows; Jesus is pleading his blood for them; angels watched every one that arose to speak, and noticed every tear of penitence that was shed. Shall this all be in vain? O Lord, help them to realize how solemn is the present hour—how great the necessity of making strong efforts to escape from coming destruction.

Now we invite the youth all over the land to join in this effort to seek salvation. Our prayer is for you all. Dear children, strive for the blessing of the gospel; to have the love of God shed abroad in your hearts. This is a matter of importance; let nothing hinder you. May the Lord gather you to himself in the day when he makes up his jewels. J. H. W.