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The Basis of Unity

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Oct 29, 1903

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 80, No. 43.

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The Basis of Unity

By Editor

DURING the closing days of the recent council of the General Conference Committee, Dr. J. H. Kellogg was in Washington, and attended several of the meetings. At two or three different times he spoke of his long connection with this work, and his present attitude toward it. He referred to the unhappy differences existing among us, and expressed the desire that these might come to an end, and that a spirit of unity might prevail. In response to this suggestion, Dr. Kellogg was invited to meet with the members of the General Conference Committee for special prayer and counsel. The members of the committee expressed the same earnest desire that Dr. Kellogg did to have the conflict that has so long existed, brought to an end. As the situation was reviewed, it was made plain that the only basis of unity is to be found in the full acceptance by all parties of all the counsel the Lord is giving us through the spirit of prophecy. For years God has been pointing out the way to all, but that way has not been followed by all, nor perhaps by any, as it should have been. Now the Lord is speaking in no uncertain language. The way is made exceedingly plain to every one, and there will be perfect union, harmony, and concert of action when all acknowledge and obey his voice. This is the true basis of unity, and there is no other. The time has come to let all fully understand the instruction that has been given; and it should be clearly understood that in doing this, no one is seeking to cause division, but rather to bring it to an end. After the council referred to above had closed, the brethren who had been in the forefront in recent experiences, met in personal interviews, with the hope of establishing mutual confidence for the future. We are exceedingly thankful that the Lord has wrought in behalf of his work, and we give to him all the glory. Our hope is renewed that this people will go forward with a united front, to accomplish the work committed to them in this generation. Let all pray that the peace of God may rule in all hearts.