LINE UPON LINE by A. S. Hutchins

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jul 15, 1862

LINE UPON LINE.

By A. S. Hutchins

THE necessity still seems to exist for "line upon line, precept upon precept," relative to the proper observance of the Sabbath of the Lord, by those who profess to love and keep it. Evidently there is a lack of real principle on this point, notwithstanding all that has been said in regard to it; and that, too, among those to whom we might justly look to set an example worthy of imitation by all. There is and has been a careless negligence by some, long professing a love for the commandments of God, relative to the observance of the holy Sabbath, that is deeply to be regretted. Such we do not expect to see free, nor exerting the influence that God would have them, till they "Remember the Sabbath-day to keep it holy."

And when, we have asked, will this be? When will every hour and minute of God's sacred Rest-day be devoted to him, and no unnecessary work be done, no unnecessary words be spoken? When will the work of sixth-day cease to lap over one half hour or more, upon the Sabbath? When will the "chores" be done, both within doors and without, and all be ready, as the Sabbath returns, to bow in humble prayer around the family altar, and to keep it holy to its close? When will there be no professed Sabbath-keeper returning home from worldly business, driving miles after the commencement of the Sabbath? When will the entire church so love this blessed day, that they will unitedly honor its Author, "not doing their own ways, nor finding their own pleasure, nor speaking their own words?" Who will answer, When, by the needful reform? Who will be among the overcomers, and gain the overcomer's reward?

A. S. HUTCHINS.

Fletcher, Vt., July 4, 1862.