The Review, a Friend in Affliction
By J. V. Weeks
Bro. Smith: In addressing you or either of the Review, I have the assurance of addressing friends, not only to me personally, but friends of present truth; therefore friends particularly. So of all lovers of the truth as it is in Jesus, I rejoice in having such friends, and in having a token every week of their continued friendship. I hail with joy the Review as a harbinger of good news—as a solace in affliction—as strength in weakness—as a relief in adversity—as a friend better far than gold or silver; in short, as a truthful exponent of the Scriptures which are able to make us wise unto salvation and eternal life. Many have been the opposing forces arrayed in phalanx since I embraced the present truth, and commenced regarding all the commandments of God as obligatory on all mankind. Numerous and well organized they are, although including many conflicting elements, yet touching the Sabbath question, the immortality of the soul, and the speedy coming of our blessed Lord, they are perfectly harmonious. I am pained at the prevalence of infidelity under the specious covering of reform, denying the truth of the Bible, the necessity or efficacy of the atonement bringing every thing down to a level with their own often contradictory reasonings and fallible judgment. How blinded! how easily led captive by the Devil at his will! May the victories of the cross be multiplied, and infidelity, with its alluring baits be effectually silenced, till all those who will heed the truth, shall embrace it, for the love of it, ere they are engulfed in the general ruin that awaits Modern Babylon. How wide and universal will be that ruin! Thousands, yea millions now flattering themselves that to-morrow will be as this day, only they the more progressed, will find alas! t'will be too late to call upon the rocks and mountains to hide them in that awful day, that their theory of progression is but an alluring bait lulling to fancied security. Please continue to send the Review and I will forward the pay as I am able. Yours in true reform and brotherly love. Olathe, Nebraska, Dec. 25th, 1858.