Universality of Moral Obligation.
By D. T. Bourdeau
SABBATH-KEEPERS are said to be great sticklers on moral duties being binding on all mankind, wherever they may be situated. It is right that we should be thus particular, not only in regard to keeping the Sabbath, but in regard to all those obligations whereby we show our love to God and man. And prominent among these is the duty of giving of our means to advance the cause of truth. The course of some in not paying up their dues on Systematic Benevolence because they have moved away from the churches to which they belong, indicates that one important duty, at least, is not binding on all and in every place, and that there are some localities where we may be excused for not loving God with all the heart, and our neighbor as ourselves. We have known of individuals who have gone from one place to another to avoid paying lawful debts; but let none of us be guilty of pursuing this course to rob God of his just due. There are laws in different countries by which certain debts after being due for a given period become outlawed, and cannot be collected unless those who have contracted them are willing to pay them. This period varies in length in different countries. In Vermont it is six years. While this law is designed to favor the poor, yet it is taken advantage of by many, both poor and rich, to avoid paying just debts. This is right down robbery. In the eyes of God no debts are outlawed except in cases where mercy is extended, and even in such cases gratitude and an effort to pay, should be shown in honor of justice and of those who forgive, by the ones who are the objects of mercy. Now I have thought that those who, simply through negligence, let their dues on S. B. run for years without being paid, are somewhat tinctured with the idea that the debts we owe to God can be outlawed. Horrible thought! Can such meet God with this excuse in the Judgment? Says the unerring word of God, “Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully,” margin, “negligently.” Jer. 48:10.