SELECTIONS by Dr. Scudder

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 20, 1856

SELECTIONS.

By Dr. Scudder

"What if I should Become a Christian?"

On the second evening of a protracted meeting in New-York, (says Dr. Spring,) a lady from the extreme South, opulent, of high connections, nursed in the lap of indulgence, the mistress as well as the votary of fashion, was induced to attend. As she went along, a sort of secret soliloquy took place. "What if I should become a Christian? Well, what if I should? It would be strange. What if I should? You must give up your worldly amusements. Well, that I can do. What if you should become a Christian? You must give up your gay companions. Well, I can part with them. If I become a Christian I must endure much ridicule and banter. Well, this is not intolerable. If I become a Christian, my southern friends, who have taken in me such kind and tender interest, will be wounded and grieved—will despise me." Here her feelings prevailed. The thought of home and early associates rushed upon her with overpowering sensations. "But," recovering herself "suppose they do? My Saviour will not despise, disown and forsake me. I'll go to Jesus." She went to the meeting, that night trusts she received Christ, and is now rejoicing in hope of his glory."

Reader, what if you should become a Christian? You must renounce such of the pleasures of this world as are incompatible with religion; and you will secure eternal life. What if you should not become a Christian? Why, you will have what the world call pleasure in this life, perhaps—but you will lose your soul. Will you be a Christian? —Dr. Scudder.