A. S. HUTCHINS by A. S. HUTCHINS

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 18, 1873

A. S. HUTCHINS

By A. S. HUTCHINS

Brethren.

THIS is the word used in solemn and scriptural language, instead of “brothers,” in speaking of the people of God. Sometimes it is used in reference to our kinsfolk, in place of brothers. But I know of no place in the Bible where brothers is used instead of brethren, in speaking of those united with the Most High, by adoption. Testimonies in social meetings would sound better if this were borne in mind by some, while we think the Lord would be no less pleased with them.

It is right to approach our Maker in prayer and exhortation with becoming and proper language. Yet he will regard prayers and petitions arising from the contrite heart of the most unlearned.

“A broken and contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” “The preacher sought to find out acceptable words (words of delight, margin): and that which was written was upright, even words of truth.”