Question Corner

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Feb 20, 1901

NOTE.—We wish those who ask questions to take particular notice: (1) Only such questions will be answered here as we believe to be of general interest and information. (2) We can not undertake to explain from four to a dozen scriptures, as in one sentence we are often requested to do. (3) Do not ask to “explain” a certain text or passage. State clearly the point in question. (4) Give full name and address, not for publication unless desired, but as evidence of good faith, and to give us the privilege of replying by letter if deemed best. (5) Unsigned communications of any kind find the quickest way to the waste-basket. (6) It is always well to inclose stamp. (7) “Foolish and unlearned questions avoid,” also those that minister to mere curiosity. (8) Study the Scriptures yourselves.

1125. A. D. B. Outside Marriages.—Marriages between Christians and unbelievers or between those who observe different days are not conducive to happiness. 2 Cor. 6:14–18 clearly applies. One of these things is sure to result,—the believer will yield his faith, the unbeliever will be won to Christ, or final and eternal separation will result. The second eventually is rare. The first is generally the case. For the good of both parties we should always advise against such marriages. But those thus married should have the earnest prayers of Christians.

1126. A. A. M. Keeping a Sabbath Holy.—No mortal being can make anything holy; only God can do this. A holy man can by God's grace keep holy what God has made holy; but none but one in whom dwells God's presence can keep holy a holy day. A non-religious man could rest upon a day, and the rest might be a benefit physically and mentally, but he could not, whatever he would be glad to do, keep a holy day holy; and no man can make holy a day not made holy by the Holy One. It is not a matter of one's right to do, it is a matter of power. The sinner can not do what he would. Rom. 7:14–23. And “whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” Rom. 14:23. It misses the mark. God requires not sacrifice, but obedience in Christ Jesus.