The Biblical Institute at South Lancaster, Mass.
By R. F. Cottrell
Though others have reported these meetings, it may not be amiss for me to say a few words. We had in view two worthy objects: 1. To study the word of God; 2. To seek a preparation by the Spirit of God to qualify us for the work of publishing the truth in such a manner as to make it successful in the salvation of men. We felt that the former without the latter would not accomplish the object we had in view. And we humbly hope that some progress was made toward these results. The church at South Lancaster seemed to labor unitedly to make the Institute successful. Their constant toil to sustain the work in providing for their guests, together with attendance at the lectures and their zealous spiritual labor in the social meetings, will not soon be forgotten by those who were present. If those from abroad do not appreciate these efforts, and are not stimulated with a like zeal to put their energies into the cause of God and labor with diligence, perseverance, and self-sacrifice in the work of God, it will be their own fault, and will tend to their own loss. I am sanguine, however, that the object of the Institute will not be lost. Solemn pledges were made, which will be remembered by many, if not by all; and if these are carried out, the blessing of the Lord realized at these meetings will prove a prelude to the joys to come, when the class, the teacher, and all who labored so faithfully for the objects, will meet again. When we gain immortality all will feel that it is cheap enough, even at the sacrifice of all we have and are. Our Institute is past, and we are separated, no more thus to be assembled on earth. Some who were present were on the way to Europe, to labor as missionaries in this closing message. But we can look back to the scenes of our privileges and blessings at South Lancaster as a bright spot in our earthly pilgrimage. And may this inspire us with zeal to be prepared for the heavenly meeting. R. F. COTTRELL.