COMMUNICATIONS by A. C. Babcock

Publishing Committee · Rochester, N. Y. · May 15, 1855

COMMUNICATIONS.

By A. C. Babcock

From A. C. Babcock.

DEAR BRO. WHITE:—I feel to sympathize with, and I think willing also to share in, the trials of God's "scattered flock." It is more than twenty years since I "chose to suffer affliction with the people of God, rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season." Notwithstanding this choice, through my unfaithfulness and the worldly conformity of that people with which I united when I first professed faith in Christ, instead of "suffering with him," I find that I have been enjoying the pleasures of sin and sense; not that I designed to live and act contrary to my early choice; but in consequence of having been borne along so quietly and gently by the current of popular opinion and theology, unconscious of the fact that I was entertaining false ideas which I had received from tradition, and not from the word of God.

I now rejoice in the truth, though often with trembling. When I see the bitter opposition that is manifested towards the truth and its advocates, I feel that the time is not far distant when every true child of God shall suffer persecution. "We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." Acts xiv, 22. Paul says, "All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." 2 Tim. iii, 12.

In view of the difficulties and trials before us, I sometimes shudder, and for a moment feel inclined to shrink from the coming evils. But when I look at the efficiency of the Christian's armor, I feel to take courage. I would address the tried and tempted followers of Christ in the language of Paul: [Eph. vi, 10–18:] "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the Devil; for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness, (or wicked spirits,) in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breast-plate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints."

Wake up brother! wake up sister! Surely we have much to do: Rouse thee, and prepare for battle, Lo! the enemy's in view. Gird thee! gird thee! for the conflict; Mighty will the contest be; See, the dragon hosts, in malice, Gath'ring now, in fierce array. Seize your breast-plate, shield and helmet, Take the sword of truth in hand: And though few and weak our numbers, Bold, and fearless may we stand. Strong and powerful are our weapons, Safe and sure is our defense, And our Captain, glorious Leader! Girded with omnipotence. Courage, then, ye fellow-soldiers, Faithful in this conflict be, For the cause of truth will triumph, God will give us victory.

A. C. BABCOCK. Johnstown Center, Wis., May 6th, 1855.