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CHAS. P. WHITFORD

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Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 15, 1870

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 35, No. 13.

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CHAS. P. WHITFORD

By Chas. P. Whitford

Sincerity.

A FEW days since, in conversation with a friend on the subject of the Sabbath, he remarked that if we were only sincere in our faith, it was all that was necessary, which was equivalent to saying that we might do things which are wrong, if we are sincere, and think it is right; and then we will be saved anyhow.
Such is the position taken by a large majority of the professed followers of Jesus Christ at the present time. How such a theory can be made to harmonize with the words of our divine Lord and Master, is more than we can at present understand.
The last benediction of the Coming One was, “Blessed are they that do his [the Father’s] commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” Rev. 22: 14.
Again he says, “If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” Matt. 19: 17. God has given commandments and ordinances, and promises salvation to those who will keep them. Now if men can continue to do things which are violations of the commandments, and yet can be saved, if they are sincere, why, then, there are two ways to salvation.
We can obey God and be saved, or, if this is not so convenient, we can disobey him and be saved, provided we are only sincere.
To us this seems like a very doubtful kind of salvation. While we believe that it is a good thing to be truly sincere, we also believe that God will accept of nothing but strict obedience to his commandments. He will accept of none but godly sincerity. To be sincere in actions which are violations of the law of God, is dangerous sincerity. Let us strive to know the whole will of God, and do it; for none but those who keep the truth will enter into the city. Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: “Fear God and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.”

CHAS. P. WHITFORD

Berkshire, Vt.