Letters to O. R. L. Crozier.
By Editor
A good brother regrets that so much space is occupied in the Review and Herald with the discussion of the Sabbath question. But we think that if he was situated as most of the brethren are, he would feel otherwise, and would rejoice to see the question thoroughly investigated. Many of the brethren are placed in the midst of opposition, where the objections to the perpetuity of the Sabbath, that have appeared in the Harbinger, are urged upon them, and it is necessary that these objections should be answered, that our brethren may be able to defend their position. Again, there are many who are not satisfied with the no-Sabbath system, yet do not observe the true Sabbath, who are now examining the arguments for and against it. And while error is presented to them, it is of the highest importance that truth also should be spread out before them. Thus error may be exposed by the light of divine truth, and the sincere guided in the path of the just, to rejoice in its increasing light. We are aware that there are those of our readers who are situated where the no-Sabbath system is not taught. Such are not as well prepared to judge of the real value of Bro. Andrews' letters. But we would say to such, that in our opinion, they will, sooner or later, have to meet all the objections that can be raised against the Sabbath of the Lord our God, therefore, their only safe course is to study well the Sabbath question. There are too many that have but little relish for sound bible argument. Such are in danger of being confused and led from the truth by those who tread under foot the fourth commandment. It is our design that the Review and Herald shall contain such a variety of matter as shall make it profitable and interesting. The reasons of our faith must be given. It is also necessary that it should contain spirited communications from the scattered brethren. It is of the greatest importance that all should speak the truth fearlessly, but in love. We think all should be instructed by the advice given by Paul to his son Timothy. "Follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient; in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will." We approve of the mild, yet plain manner in which Bro. Andrews has defended his position; and fully believe that his letters are accomplishing, and will accomplish, much good. It is thought by some that discussion should be avoided as unnecessary and wrong. We will agree with such, as far as they agree with the Bible. "Foolish and unlearned questions," says Paul, "avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes." By reason of the unpleasant discussion of such questions, in Advent papers, some are prejudiced against discussions in any form. But how can we be silent, and not answer the objections of those who impiously trample on the commandments of God, and teach men to violate them? This we can not, shall not do. We shall avoid such questions as have gendered strifes in the once happy Advent band. But the glorious truths contained in the message of the third angel, we shall, in the strength of the Lord, seek to defend in the spirit of meekness. If those who have the truth hold their peace the stones will cry out. Let those who do not see the necessity of answering the objections of our opponents, look back nine or ten years, and see how God blest the labors of those who answered the objections raised against the Second Advent. But little could have been accomplished then, without a thorough reply to the objections raised against the Advent. And there is all the necessity of meeting our opponents now, that there ever was. Brethren, "search the Scriptures." Have the armor on, be strong.