Meeting of Sabbath-keepers in Neuchatel.
By John Nevins Andrews
In accordance with an appointment, a general business meeting of Swiss Sabbath-keepers was held at Neuchatel, Nov. 1. The little companies in Tramelan, Locle, Chaux de Fonds, Fleurier, Bienne, and Buckten were represented, as also those in this place. It was appointed for the purpose of considering what we can do in order to advance the work of God in this part of the world. We had a very free interchange of thought with respect to our duties and responsibilities. I gave a history of the work in America and spoke of the labors and sacrifices of those who have shared in that work. I also spoke of the purpose that the brethren in America cherish of sending the truth to foreign lands, and of the sacrifices which they are willing to make in order to do it. I stated the nature and importance of our work in giving to the world the warning of the near approach of the Judgment, and in setting forth the sacred character of the law of God, as the rule of our lives and of the final Judgment, and the obligation of mankind to keep God's commandments. I also spoke of the brevity of the time in which we must accomplish the work assigned us. I then suggested several plans of action, and invited the brethren to give them thought. I also asked them to make suggestions as to the best methods by which we may reach the people in this country. I told them that the brethren in America felt a very deep interest in the work in Europe, and that they expected the brethren here to manifest the spirit of labor and sacrifice to help themselves. I asked them not to disappoint these hopes by the response which their works should make. It gives me great pleasure to say that these brethren seem to be in earnest to do their whole duty. They expressed their gratitude that help had been sent from America, and their willingness to co-operate in any way in their power to advance the work of God. In two weeks we convene again at Locle for more definite action. The brethren in America will be interested to know something respecting Bro. Ertzenberger. I was glad to meet him on this occasion, though our meeting was not without pain. It is necessary that I should state a few words relative to his case which I would gladly be excused from speaking. When Bro. E. returned from America, it seems that he forgot his dependence upon God. Satan gained advantage of him in leading him from God and causing him to disregard the counsel of his brethren in this country. He has sustained much loss himself, and has been a grief to his brethren. I hope Bro. E. has learned wisdom by what he has suffered. When we become wise in our own eyes, God gives us an opportunity to learn whether we are capable of going on without his help. I gave Bro. E. the best counsel in my power, and I trust that he feels in his heart determined to regard it. Our meeting has given me courage. There are true-hearted brethren in Switzerland. I feel in my heart that God is ready to help. I hope within a short time to be able to speak in the French language. I trust, also, we shall soon have publications in this language. May God help us; and may the brethren in America remember in their prayers these friends of Christ in Europe. God is in this work. He will help us in carrying it forward if we do not forget him. P. S. THE REVIEW of Oct. 20, has this moment come to hand. As it contains no mention of our arrival at Liverpool, I would say that I wrote to the REVIEW the very night of our arrival at L., which was Sept. 26, which has failed to reach the Office.