THE CROSS REMOVED by L. J. Richmond

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 29, 1862

THE CROSS REMOVED.

By L. J. Richmond

DEAR BRO. WHITE: There seems to be quite an interest in this place to know the reasons of our faith; therefore our books and papers are in good demand. For some time past we have kept the back numbers of the Review and stitched them together in a book; but we can no longer do this without withholding the light from those who seem anxious to know the reasons of our faith. There are some here who have read nearly all our books on the Sabbath question, and who seem to be convinced of the truthfulness of our position; but still they hesitate; and the question come home to us, What more can we do? Again and again we look over the list of our publications, but fail to find the book that will remove the last and greatest objection to the Sabbath question. If any one could present us with the desired book we think it would accomplish more in bringing people to decide for the truth than all the other books together: the title of such a book would be, The Cross Removed.

But we may well despair of ever removing this great objection from the minds of our fellow-men; for it lies directly across the narrow path that leads to eternal life; and while some have labored to remove it, others choose to pass around and climb up some other way. But Jesus has given his disciples instructions in regard to this point. He says [Matt. xvi, 24], "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Some think the cross greater than they can bear; but Jesus has said, "My grace is sufficient for you; for my strength is made perfect in weakness." If we find the cross greater than we are able to bear alone, we have only to come to Jesus and ask for help, and he has promised to be a present help in every time of need. He requires no more of us than we are able in his strength to perform.

And to those who stand trembling I would say, Go forward; take up the cross and follow Jesus. He has promised never to leave nor forsake those who trust in him. Walk out by faith. Trust your all on the promises of God. Follow in his footsteps; and life, eternal life in the kingdom of God will be your reward. O, is not this enough? What more could we have to induce us to faithfulness?

There seems to be quite a field for labor here. There is not so much prejudice existing in the minds of the people here as in some other places. We think if we could have a course of lectures, there would be some who would take a stand for the truth. Hope the way will soon open for some of the messengers to visit this place.

L. J. RICHMOND. Vernon, Vt.