p. 107 | Idolatry by I. D. Van Horn; Dudley Marvin Canright

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Mar 7, 1865

Idolatry.

By I. D. Van Horn; Dudley Marvin Canright

It is a fact plain to be seen, that this is one of the prevailing sins of the age in which we live. Not that men set themselves to work forming graven images to bow down to and worship; but that they are entertaining habits of life equally as sinful in the sight of God.

In the word of God we are exhorted to "mortify our members which are upon the earth, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry." Col. iii, 5. This proves that a person may be an idolater, and not bow down to a graven image. Peter in speaking on this subject says, "For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revelings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries; wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot." 1 Peter iv, 1-4. Let a person try to get rid of such idols as tobacco, tea, coffee, &c., and we think he would fully realize the language of verse 1. "Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind; for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin."

Now while the people of the world are giving loose rein to their appetite, and as Paul says, Phil. iii, 19, "Whose God is their belly," it becomes God's people to "take heed to themselves, lest at any time their hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, (eating) and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares." Luke xxi, 34.

It is truly gratifying to know that a reform in this particular is taking place among S. D. Adventists. The pamphlets entitled "Health, or How to Live," are just what we all need on this subject. We have read No. 1, and would take this opportunity to say, that we heartily endorse its teachings. We can recommend it to one and all, and when you have read it you will say with us, that it is meat in due season, and a step in the right direction of reform.

We have had some experience in this way of living for the past three months, and can testify that our minds are clearer in consequence, and our general health better than ever before. Where we have labored the brethren are heartily adopting this reform. Those who have had a little experience, already count it a great blessing.

Brethren and sisters, send in your subscriptions for these books, and post up on this important subject. May the Lord bless you and aid you in the work of reform.

"Little children keep yourselves from idols."

I. D. VAN HORN, D. M. CANRIGHT.