Southern Illinois Tent.
By G. W. Colcord
From June 20 to Aug. 4, I was with Bro. Steward in the northern Illinois tent, at Como. From first to last, we saw no great amount of interest manifested. However, we hope some good was accomplished. Sold some publications, gave away a quantity; several subscribed for our periodicals. Many made a verbal acknowledgment of the correctness of our views, but we were compelled to leave most of them stranded on the shoals of procrastination. One man commenced to observe the Sabbath; another promised, just as we were finishing up the effort, so to do; and for others we will hope and pray. Eternity, only, will manifest the full result. Aug. 8, I came to this place, and found Bro. Bliss laboring on in the good work. Since my coming, we have spoken to the people eighteen times; in connection with these meetings, we have enjoyed three prayer and social seasons. Last Sabbath, we had an interesting Bible class; our subject was the two laws. A Disciple minister was present, and took part in the exercises, throughout which he manifested a very concessive spirit; but, at the close of the school, he spoiled it all, as far as his effort told, by saying he thought a first-day “Lord’s day” could be proved from the New Testament! It was mutually agreed to that we should take for a lesson next Sabbath those eight texts which mention the “first-day;” and he is to be present, with such ministerial aid as he may deem proper to bring. We expect an interesting time. May it result in good. Last Sabbath, we had a very encouraging meeting. Some of our old friends in the cause were present; freedom was ours to enjoy together. Our newly-made friends took hold well; and at the close of the interview the test manifested sixteen souls, determined to obey the third angel’s message. Last Sunday eve, in the midst of a large congregation, some twenty-five or thirty arose for prayers. In our prayer-meeting yesterday, one more made a start for the good work; and at the close of the sermon last eve five arose for prayers. We remember that “many” are “called” by the truth, but only a “few chosen;” and, therefore, we shall endeavor to give the people a close testimony. We don’t want those to go with us who are simply proselytes to our belief (see Matt. 23:15), but those who possess living faith (Jas. 2:14–26), and are of the true stamp (Rev. 14:12). The interest extends for miles around. We judge we have had five or six hundred present at several of our meetings. Books go off quite well. Twenty-five names have been received for the REVIEW, Instructor, and Reformer. How solemn the thought: Our position and work! Souls are deciding, perhaps in many cases, for eternity. Pray for us. G. W. COLCORD. Greenup, Ill., Aug. 20, 1873.