Honan, China by John J. Westrup

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jun 4, 1914

Honan, China

By John J. Westrup

THE men's school closed March 31. I never before received so much light and strength from the study of the book of Revelation as I have this winter. The Chinese brethren realize more fully the truth of Rev. 1:3. They all long to make known to others this powerful truth. Most of them felt like Jeremiah when he said, "His word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay."

The workers' institute began April 1, and proved an additional blessing and inspiration. Among the many important things presented was the Sabbath school work. Elder Cottrell spoke on the different phases of the Sabbath school,—the officers and their duties, teachers and reviewers, primary and kindergarten work. At the close of the meeting nineteen persons were received upon baptism into church fellowship. One was hindered by sickness. This was one of the best baptisms I have administered in Honan. The candidates have an intelligent knowledge of present truth, and thoroughly believe it, and I feel confident they will go through to the kingdom.

The robbers are bolder and more active than ever. The Chinese soldiers seem unable to cope with them. The Honanese soldiers are more or less in league with the robbers, and are constantly selling them ammunition. The northern soldiers do not know the country, and cannot travel with the quick speed of the robbers, who know every foot of the ground. One mission station far inland was robbed of its money and seventy-four boxes—a year's food supply that had just arrived. The missionary writes: "It is hard to live here without money and food, and it is very dangerous to leave, as the whole territory is infested by local robber bands. The soldiers do not want to risk their lives on such small pay as they get, as that would leave their families and parents starving. All the rebel leaders are in league with the robbers. The great majority of the people in China are thoroughly dissatisfied with prevailing conditions."

The near future has no indication of peace for China.

JOHN J. WESTRUP.