A. S. HUTCHINS by A. S. Hutchins

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 11, 1858

A. S. HUTCHINS

By A. S. Hutchins

From Bro. Hutchins.

BRO. SMITH: The promises of God have looked very precious to me for some time past. When I think of the glorious reward that awaits the faithful, I feel very desirous to be found with them when the gift of eternal life is bestowed upon them. But if we would reign with Christ, we must also suffer with him. Many would be glad to reign with Christ, if they could escape the suffering part of the Christian religion.

But says the Apostle, "If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us." "If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye, for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you." Many think the fiery trials strange, and therefore they will not walk in the path of obedience, but still desire the reward.

The trials necessary to strengthen and increase our faith, we should not think strange of. But we do often think strange of some trials which brethren and sisters bring upon themselves wholly unnecessary, and we well may, for it is strange that they will walk so much in blindness and darkness, when there is light for the church to walk in, and eye-salve for them to anoint their eyes with.

Last Sabbath, and First and Second-days, Bro. Waggoner and I spent with the church in this place. Our meetings on First and Second-days were especially for the benefit of the church. In these meetings we found it necessary for the further advancement of the cause of truth in this place, to withdraw from those who have caused division among the people of God, and been stumbling blocks in the sight of the world; and to "reprove, rebuke," and exhort others to a closer walk with God.

We now feel sure that this church must hereafter, walk faster or they will grieve the Spirit; for their burdens are thrown off, and they should go free. May the Lord help them thus to do. I am confident the time has come for those who love gospel light, liberty and happiness, to heed the injunction of the Prophet. See Mal. iii, 10. "Then shall ye return and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not." Mal. iii, 18

A. S. HUTCHINS

Hillsdale, Mich., Feb. 3d, 1858.

P. S. It has been and still is our purpose, Providence permitting, to visit the churches in Allegan, Monterey, and in other places in that section, at our earliest convenience.

Correspondents may address me at Battle Creek, Mich at present. A. S. H.