Clerical Witticisms

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jul 4, 1912

Clerical Witticisms

WE should encourage a spirit of optimism instead of pessimism. To look on the bright side of life and make the best of circumstances; to see light shining through the darkness; to be happy, cheerful, and courageous; to sing instead of sigh,—this spirit has in it Christian helpfulness. It is better always to look on the bright side than into the darkness. It is better to smile than frown. But it is coming to be an unfortunate characteristic of this modern age that cheerfulness often descends into levity. Too often the sacred things of God and his Word are made the object of jest. The most solemn discourse is oftentimes interspersed with light and flippant remarks. This is not confined alone to men and women in the ordinary walks of life, but too often is seen in the experience of ministers of the gospel, men from whom, above all others, is naturally expected sobriety and dignity of deportment and speech.

A report rendered by a committee at the Methodist General Conference, abounded in witticism, revealing the total lack of reverence. Sacred things were spoken of in commonplace and vulgar fashion. The manner in which the report was rendered brought out some earnest protests. Dr. J. M. Buckley is quoted as saying, “Never have I witnessed such a scene as this in all of the general conferences I have attended—laughter, witticism, and irreverence.” Such incidents are not always confined to Methodists alone. It is coming to be too generally the spirit of the age. Its influence has pervaded the lives of some Seventh-day Adventists. Let us put out of our lives foolishness, and seek to become strong, sober-minded, earnest, cheerful Christians.