p. 40 | Why Is It? by Editor

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jan 31, 1878

Why Is It?

By Editor

A WRITER in the Oskaloosa (Kan.) Independent has undertaken to edify his readers with a tirade against the visions of Mrs. White. The Restitution makes haste to copy this article, and we shall be somewhat surprised if some others do not follow suit. The article is neither amiable nor gentlemanly, using terms which are a disgrace alike to both writer and publishers, such as, “Mother White,” “The old lady,” “Climax of absurdity,” “New fangled, avaricious, Heaven-daring novelty,” &c. If the statements made in said article concerning the visions are true, and the matter is set forth in the right light, then whosoever has anything to do with them, or the cause with which they are connected, is an unqualified idiot.

Nevertheless, the cause with which the visions are connected is rapidly spreading. The writings of Mrs. White are publicly advertised. They are open to the investigation of all; attention is publicly called to this matter, and a candid examination invited. Still, on every hand, men of intelligence, of discrimination, of moral worth, and of honesty of heart, are embracing the cause of the third angel’s message. Why is this?

Now the reader may judge for himself whether all these men are such fools as some would have us believe, or whether those who try to hold up this work to ridicule are fair and truthful in their representations.