The Martyrdom of a Book Agent by K. C. Russell

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park, Washington, D. C. · May 23, 1912

The Martyrdom of a Book Agent

By K. C. Russell

DOUBTLESS many would be devoting their lives to the noble work of selling the precious books which are freighted with the third angel's message, were it not for some of the hardships that are incident to that kind of work. Some who have given up this work, did so because doors were slammed in their faces, because they were accused of being lazy and shiftless, because they had to go without food for one whole day, because they did not see their families for a month, had a poor delivery, had to sleep in a barn or under a haystack all night, or had to endure other hardships of a similar character.

It may be a source of encouragement for such to contrast their experiences with that of a book agent in the early part of the sixteenth century, as recorded in D'Aubigne's "History of the Reformation:"—

"At Buda, in Hungary, an evangelical bookseller named John had circulated Luther's New Testament and other of his writings throughout that country. He was bound to a stake. His persecutors then piled his books around him, enclosing him as if in a tower, and then set fire to them. John manifested unshaken courage, exclaiming in the midst of the flames that he was delighted to suffer in the cause of the Lord."

We believe there are many noble men and women now engaged in the canvassing work who have demonstrated by their loyalty and self-sacrifice and faithfulness in this work that, if need be, they would suffer martyrdom rather than renounce their faith in the blessed truth, or give up their heaven-appointed work.

"Must I be carried to the skies On flowery beds of ease, While others fought to win the prize, And sailed through bloody seas?" K. C. RUSSELL.