The True Source of Power
By K. C. Russell
The Daily Morning Sun, of Springfield, Ohio, bearing date of April 9, 1906, contains a report of Dr. Wilbur F. Crafts’ lecture. The report is entitled, “Powers,” which is printed in large bold type. The article lays particular stress upon the power of the mayor of that city to inaugurate moral reform in that city. In hearing so much said regarding the application of civil power in the enforcement of religious measures, my mind reverts to the language of the Psalmist David when he states what the saints will say: “They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power.” It will be seen from the foregoing that one of the strong evidences of saintship is the disposition on the part of the Lord’s people to talk of his power, instead of human power. All true reform in religious matters will be wrought by Him to whom is committed all power that is in heaven and in earth. It will be well for those who are clamoring for the enforcement of the power of the state to inquire whether they are manifesting the qualifications which are to characterize the saints of the Most High. The church of Jesus Christ has been promised mighty power in carrying the gospel to the uttermost parts of the world upon the conditions outlined in the following words of inspiration:— “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses . . . unto the uttermost part of the earth.” So that for which the church should be seeking is the gift of the Holy Spirit, the true source of power, and not the power that is vested in a civil magistrate.