Opposition for Keeping the Sabbath
By Joseph J. Perkins
BRO. SMITH:—As communications from the brethren and sisters are cheering to us, we will not withhold our mite, hoping it may be beneficial to some in like circumstances. Myself and companion have been for two years past members of the Christian church in Macomb. It has been about one year since we were convinced of the importance of keeping the Sabbath of the Bible. This caused a ruler in the church to be angry with us, and he stated that he would not stand it, and we must leave the church or he would. A church meeting was therefore called to see what could be done; and our pastor proposed that we should dissolve the whole membership which was done by vote, giving each member a letter of commendation "to the church of Christ, greeting." My brethren, we are not at all discouraged by the opposition we meet with; but we are firmer in the present truth. We received Bro. Waggoner's visit with gratitude to God. It was like the coming of Titus to the primitive christians. The lecture he gave us has had a good influence over those who were present; but still we are opposed, not so much by those who make no profession, as by those who make the tallest profession. It does appear that as it was in the days of Sodom and the cities of the plain, so it is in these last days. How was it then? Did not the angels of the Lord smite the Sodomites with blindness both small and great? and is it not plain to every candid observer that blindness, yes gross blindness, is now covering the professed world? The world admit that we are on the eve of important events. Some say the conversion of the world is at hand; others say we are on the eve of a political revolution that is to prepare the people for the reception of the gospel. But one thing is certain: the elements of society, social, moral, political and religious are in motion; and this must increase as we approach the end which is even at the doors. Brethren and sisters, pray for us that our faith fail not, that when He who is our life shall appear, we may appear with him in glory. Yours in love of the present truth.
JOSEPH J. PERKINS.
Macomb Co., Mich., June 28th, 1856.