p. 80 | PULTNEY CONFERENCE by George Washington Holt

Publishing Committee · Rochester, N. Y. · Sep 16, 1852

PULTNEY CONFERENCE

By George Washington Holt

This Meeting commenced on the 9th, agreeable to appointment. The brethren in the vicinity, and a few from abroad, were present. Brn. Wyman and Ingraham, from Vermont, were with us, in the Spirit and power of the third angel's message. Brn. Rhodes, Edson and Andrews were, also, in attendance.

The fore part of the meeting was principally taken up by the presentation of Bible truths relative to the present position of the church of Christ, and its several duties. The importance of church order, agreeable to the New Testament, as we have no other discipline, was taken into consideration by the brethren. It was clearly shown from the scriptures that it was very essential for the church to have perfect, New Testament order; and that a church of such a character, by shedding a healthy influence, would thereby be calculated to accomplish much more good than a church otherwise could. The necessity of union on Bible truths, and of being one in judgment, in mind and spirit, in the church of Christ, was spoken of, and scriptures read on this point, with good effect.

Sabbath evening, a meeting for the brethren in Bath, Wheeler and Pultney was deemed necessary in order to talk over some differences which had arisen among them. This proved a very profitable meeting. Humble confessions were made of errors, and wrongs committed by some, and a closer union effected. The necessity of living nearer to God, and setting a double watch over their words and actions, was deeply felt. At the same time Bro. Andrews spoke to as many as could be accommodated in the meeting-house, while others remained outside.

The meetings were all well attended. An unusual number were present to hear the reasons of our faith. First-day it was judged that five-hundred people, or more, were congregated in a grove fitted for the purpose, where they listened to the sublime truths of God's Word, connected with the third angel's message, set forth in a clear manner, accompanied by the Spirit and power of God. The servants of God had much freedom in presenting Bible truths during this meeting.—While some mocked, others listened attentively; and the falling tear showed that the heart was affected. Some were desirous of hearing more on the subject, and wished the paper to read.

The Lord is blessing, in a wonderful manner, the labors of those that keep the Commandments, and the faith of Jesus.—They have much to encourage them at this time, as the interest among the people, to hear on this subject, is greatly increasing, and a door opening before them, continually, into new fields of labor. And while the Macedonian cry is raised, "Come over and help us," some are constantly leaving the enemies' ranks, and taking a decided stand on the side of truth, to join the company of commandment-keepers, that are every where spoken against, falsely, for Christ's sake. We have much reason to rejoice and be exceeding glad, knowing that they so do to our Master.

I do rejoice to see the work of the Lord prosper. I hear good news from every quarter where the present truth has been presented. The Lord has truly set his hand to gather his people, from the East, and from the West. He will say to the North, give up, and to the South, keep not back. "Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing to Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head; they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away." Isa. li, 11.

G. W. HOLT.

Rochester, N. Y., Sept. 14th, 1852.