p. 75 | Serious Questions by A. Smith

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Sep 9, 1875

Serious Questions.

By A. Smith

“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” 1 John 2:6. It is evident that a true Christian is, in his degree, like his divine Lord in character and deportment, and that he can engage in no business, or diversion, or practice, in which Jesus cannot bear him company and approbate his conduct. In view of this fact, which must commend itself to every candid mind, the writer would respectfully ask the following questions for the benefit of those who may be concerned:—

1. Can a Christian unite with any secret society, submitting to the undignified and senseless ceremony of such initiations, and solemnly swearing before God to keep the secrets of the order from all not members of the lodge, and to give exclusive protection and support to the brotherhood? If Jesus were now on earth, would he engage in such an act? Would he teach his followers to unite with secret societies? Why not, if they are for the glory of God? See 1 Cor. 10:31; 1 John 2:15.

2. Can a Christian chew or smoke tobacco to the glory of God? Were Jesus now on earth would he by precept or example recommend the practice to his followers? My smoking, chewing brother, please read Eph. 5:20, and then partake, if you can, with an approving conscience, and instruct your children in the practice if you believe it pleases God.

3. Can a Christian withhold those tithes which God has made it his duty to pay, Mal. 3:8, 9, or dissemble, Acts 5:1-10, and feel conscious of the approbation of Jesus? See Mark 12:41-44; 2 Cor. 9:8, 9.

4. Can a Christian parent fret and scold at the children God has given him, and be like the loving Saviour? Mark 10:13-16. If Jesus were like some parents and teachers his burdened and sorrow-stricken children would prefer to suffer on rather than flee to his arms for succor and rest. But what are his words of loving invitation? “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28. See also 1 Pet. 5:7; Isa. 43:1-7.

Christian brother, sister, when the fiery trials of affliction thicken around you, the Refiner will not suffer the process to consume you, but only to burn away your dross till you reflect his image.

That the writer and reader may be cleansed from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, and have a part with those arrayed in white before the throne, we believe is the will of God, and our exalted privilege. A. Smith.