Spiritual Gifts in the Church
By W. H. BRIGHAM
BRO. SMITH:—I want to say that by the blessing of God the church in this place is in unison with the body of those who keep God's holy Commandments, and are looking for the gifts according to the promise of our Lord in Luke xxiv, 49; Mark xvi, 17, 18. "And these signs shall follow them that believe: in my name shall they cast out devils, and shall speak with new tongues," &c. This, it appears, is what God has promised. Says one, This was for the apostles; but the Word says that these signs shall follow them that believe, and we see not only the apostles sharing in the blessing, but the church also. Acts ii, 1-4. And when Peter was sent to the house of Cornelius, the Holy Ghost was given. Acts x, 45. And in chapter xi, 17, Peter says, "God gave them the like gift as he7did unto us who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ." It is evident that the Holy Ghost was not given because Peter preached, but because they believed on the name of Jesus. And Peter farther testifies in Acts ii, 38, 39, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; for the promise is unto you, and to your children. Paul says, Desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 1 Cor. xiv, 1; 1 Thess. v, 20. He says, Despise not prophesying, &c. That those gifts are for the church of Christ, the Bible plainly teaches; not for a new rule of faith, but for edification and exhortation and for comfort. 1 Cor. xiv, 3. The church in this place has a warm sympathy for those that have borne the burden and heat of the day. We feel like taking hold of the work anew. I want to so live that I may share with God's people in the latter rain, and be prepared to stand in the time of trouble. Your unworthy brother striving for eternal life. Jefferson Co., N. Y., March 18th, 1856.