The Camp-Meeting in Ohio.
By G. W. Mitchell
BRO. SMITH: There are some things I heard at the camp-meeting, at Clyde, Ohio, that I would like to have published for the benefit of the readers of the REVIEW. I will not mention the able sermons, earnest exhortations, ardent prayers, pointed testimonies by the brethren and sisters, harmonious songs, humble confessions, promises to awake, &c.; but I would like to present a short synopsis of the searching exhortations given by Sr. White. Her first testimony was, Search for the truth, and let the light shine in our souls, that we may see ourselves, and follow the heavenly Pattern; and dwell upon the virtues of our brethren and friends, and not upon their errors and failings. Phil. 4:8: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Her second testimony was a cutting rebuke to us in Ohio, for not using the means God has put in our hands, to bring our families and friends to meeting; showing one way of putting our talent to the exchangers, that the Lord Jesus, at his coming, may receive his own with usury. Her third testimony, demonstrated the necessity of obeying the truth, without murmur or complaint. Paul and Silas, after declaring the truth to the Philippians, were taken, and their backs lacerated with stripes; then they were cast into an inner prison, and their feet made fast in the stocks. Did they murmur or complain? Did Paul say to Silas, This don't pay, to have our backs lacerated, then to be put in prison, and our feet made fast in stocks, and we compelled to occupy this uncomfortable position; we must be more moderate in preaching the truth? Had they murmured, would angels have visited that prison? Not an angel. But they sang praises to God at midnight, and the angelic hosts shook the prison; and the jailer and his house were converted to God, as the result of this meek, patient suffering. Brethren and sisters, let us take heed to these exhortations.