The Spirit of Sacrifice.
By Roswell F. Cottrell
I HAVE been reading again the articles in the REVIEW, Nos. 23 and 24, Vol. 36, on “Present Truth and Present Conflicts,” pointing to some of the duties and dangers of the people of God at the present time. I hope these articles will not be lightly passed over by our people. When the Lord warned us by his servant Paul, that in the last days perilous times should come, he intended that we should realize the dangers, and so escape disaster. Let each one take it home. There is great danger—danger to me, danger to all. It is not an idle expression, to increase the size of the Bible. And so, also, when God's chosen servants by the same Spirit point out the particular dangers to which we are exposed under the last message, it should not be regarded as the Sodomites regarded the warning of Lot, who “seemed as one that mocked.” These warnings are not to be regarded as idle tales. They have a solemn meaning, a deep significance. May God help all to take them to heart, and profit by his merciful dealing toward us. The work of human salvation is a work of sacrifice, from beginning to end. Christ set the pattern. His disciples are to follow it. Selfishness has no place in the system. Those who purpose to avail themselves of this great salvation, and not engage in the work of saving others, have no part nor lot in the matter. Selfishness cannot enter that kingdom, the foundation of which is laid in pure, disinterested, self-sacrificing benevolence. Those who are willing to suffer with Christ, and unselfishly follow his example of sacrifice to save others, are the ones that shall reign with him in glory. Let all those who would enjoy the rest, now willingly devote all their energies to labor.