Steadfast, Unmovable by Editor

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · May 10, 1906

Steadfast, Unmovable

By Editor

Editorial

Steadfast, Unmovable

We have certainly come to a time when every believer in this third angel’s message should know the truth for himself, and should know that he knows it. If any have been simply drifting with the denominational current, they will now find that there are side currents, and they will be compelled to decide where the genuine message is. If any will have been resting their faith upon individuals, they will now find that some are departing from the truth. If any have been uncertain in their adherence to any phase of doctrine, they will in all probability be under the necessity of defending their weakest point, or of yielding it entirely. In view of this situation, we are moved to urge our readers not to be easily disconcerted, or robbed of their confidence in any feature of our work and message, by plausible assertions or grave charges, even though they seem to rest upon a show of evidence, and are made by one who has occupied the position of a trusted teacher for many years. By an adroit and strong presentation of half truths, by an incorrect statement of facts, whether intentional or unintentional, and by a show of logical reasoning based upon unsound premises, it is possible to make an apparently sound case against any person or any work, but a calm and unprejudiced examination of facts and evidence will reverse the situation, and will strengthen confidence in the truth. In past years this advent movement has not escaped opposition from those who were at one time identified with it, and we have been warned that these experiences would be repeated and intensified in the closing days of this work. While we may be shocked by having this opposition from an unexpected quarter, yet we ought not to be overwhelmed by it. After having successfully withstood the attacks of opponents for over half a century, the pillars of this message will not be overthrown now, and the reliability of the spirit of prophecy will not be successfully impeached. Let not our people render their verdict until they hear both sides of the case. Let no one quickly cast away his confidence. “Be ye steadfast, unmovable.”