ORGANIZATION by Editor

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 19, 1860

ORGANIZATION.

By Editor

We wish it understood that we have nothing further to urge on this subject at present. We have called on those who might object to our suggestions to "write out a plan on which we as a people could act." But no one has yet suggested a plan relative to the matters we introduced; namely holding church property, such as our meeting-houses and Office of publication. We have no disposition to follow those who ramble from the points we have introduced.

As to "Making us a Name," we wish to say that it is an expression introduced by Bro. R. F. C., and that we have recommended no such work. We now suggest that we unanimously adopt the name Church of God, as a scriptural and appropriate name by which to be known.

We have not in former articles suggested the form of organization, for that was not the question under consideration. The question was whether we should hold church property legally or have things at loose ends. We have had no other idea than that the simplest form of organization possible, that would secure the object, would be best.

Now let it be distinctly understood that the following from Bro. R. F. C. is in perfect harmony with our position on this subject from the first.

Bro. White: As Bro. Andrews has written a few words in relation to an organization for the purpose of holding legally the property of the church, I would say that I earnestly desire that the best measures, that is such as God can approve, may be taken. It seems to me that the simplest way would be to organize a publishing association in Michigan, after which members might be united to it from several States.

I can see no real objection that I know of against individual churches organizing in a way that they may hold their meeting houses by law. The church at Parkville, for ought I know, may be right in the steps they have taken. It seems to me that in the apostles' days the several churches acted in business matters independent of each other, and that the combination of churches into bishopries gradually led to the great apostasy.

I would prefer that the church at Battle Creek should be entrusted with the Review Office, than that the church at large should combine in such a way as to produce something like the "great iron wheel" of Methodism.

I will still pray earnestly that the Lord will give wisdom in this matter, and believe that he will. Do not think that I wish to dictate. I only make suggestions and am determined to freely acquiesce in any measure that is in accordance to the evident will of God.

I remain yours in much love, R. F. C.

We think Bro. R. F. C.'s choice that the Battle Creek church hold the Office property rather than an organization like the "iron wheel of Methodism" is judicious. But there is no necessity for either. The Battle Creek church would decline such a position. Our meeting-house is still the legal property of S. T. Belden, and probably will be till our brethren abroad become free from their feelings of excited prejudice and become united upon a plan upon which we as a people can act, then this church will move forward in harmony with the body. J. W.