BRO. SMITH: I came to this place four weeks ago, to do some work, and return to Owatonna. On the day I arrived, I was informed that a man had been most fearfully mutilated; and that the perpetrator of the horrid crime was a woman. The weapon used was an ax. The poor man has since died.
Before I had been here two weeks, there was a rumor that a man had been killed at Owatonna. I have since learned that two men were shot, but none killed.
In the opposite direction, at Northfield, a few days ago, a man was killed by having his brains beat out with a glass tumbler. This has all transpired within a month, and all these crimes have been committed within twenty miles of this place.
How the world can behold such things, and not discern the signs of the times, is a mystery to me that can only be solved by the conclusion that they are overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness. Of course, the day of Judgment will come upon them unawares.
We attended the Quarterly Meeting at Deerfield one week ago, and have had something of a foretaste of the heavenly meeting which the saints will enjoy a little way in the future. We felt the sweet Spirit of the Lord resting down upon us as Bro. Pierce reasoned out of the Scriptures. His kind appeals to the young, and stirring admonitions to the aged, accompanied with tears, must have had some effect upon those that were present, that have not as yet manifested a desire to go with the humble people of God.
Bro. P. seemed all alive with heavenly zeal and had a comforting message for the little flock. The words that came from his lips were truly comforting to me.
One whose locks are already intermingled with gray, arose, and in tears manifested a desire for eternal life. May the Lord help him to give up the world, take up the cross daily and follow Jesus, and with his companion keep the commandments.
As for me, I thank the Lord for the blessing that I obtained at the Deerfield meeting. I truly believe that my spiritual strength was renewed, and if I ever get into the kingdom, I shall expect to see Bro. Pierce and many of the good people of Deerfield there.
W. SUTLIFF.
Faribault, Minn., Dec. 14, 1868.
THE MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB.
By C. L. W.
What thoughts rush upon our minds as we contemplate the joys of that glad day, when all the redeemed shall gather around the King's table in the heavenly Jerusalem. Patriarchs and prophets, apostles and martyrs, with the faithful of all ages, shall assemble there; and Jesus shall himself come forth and bid them welcome to the feast.
What a joyous company shall fill the golden city on that blessed day! For them there is no more separation, no more tears. Sorrow is banished from the midst of that happy throng. The hand of God himself shall wipe away tears from off all faces. “They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters.” Death shall snatch none of their number away; for, “There shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.”
These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. They have stood as witnesses for Jesus in the face of death, and many of them have sealed their testimony with their blood. They have had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover, of bonds and imprisonment. They were stoned, sawn asunder, slain with the edge of the sword; they wandered about in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth, being destitute, afflicted, and tormented.
On earth their portion was persecution, reproach, distress, and tears. But the toil-worn, weary pilgrims shall find rest. Their Saviour’s arms enfold them now, and they shall live forever in the light of his countenance. Their feet shall tread the streets of the golden city—that city which has no need of the sun, neither of the moon to shine in it; for the glory of God doth lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
As we muse on the bliss of those who shall finally be gathered within the walls of the New Jerusalem, shall we not ask ourselves the question, Shall we, too, be there? For the joys that are set before us, can we not endure, in this brief life, reproach and scorn? Can we not turn a deaf ear to the call of pleasure, and, foregoing all worldly enjoyments, “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus?” Let us with renewed courage and zeal go forward in the Master’s service, bearing in mind that only those who persevere unto the end can join in the song of the redeemed, and share the glories of the marriage feast.—C. L. W.—in The Christian.
Confession and Consecration
By F. M. BRAGG.
From Sr. Bragg.
DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS: Of late I have realized, as never before, what terrible power Satan exercises over minds, to lead astray in these last days. I have been trying to review my life from a correct stand-point, that I might see myself as God looks upon me. I would correct my wrongs in the past, and be, in future, a humble and meek follower of Christ. For many years I have professed to be such, but, oh! how widely different has my life been, particularly for the few years past, from living out my profession. My life has been wholly unconsecrated to God, and his service. I have lived to self, and in self. I would gladly obliterate the past. I ask for the forgiveness of all who have been affected by my wrongs, and I would secure an interest, by future obedience, in the all-cleansing blood of Jesus, to wash away the stains of sin upon my character.
While my interest has been with the present truth, and my desires and feeble efforts have been that others should see and believe, and I have refused every inducement that would separate me from the favored people of God, I have been so destitute of the fruits of the Spirit of God, to fit me for this heavenly work, that my spirit did not unite with those who were consecrated to God and his service.
I realize that my influence has had more of a scattering effect than a gathering with Christ. I have been too high for the lowly channel of meekness and love. Pride and an independent spirit have controlled me for the few years in the past. Many times when I have sought to act with a conscientious view of right, I now see that I was wrong in my course.
In the past I have studied, and dwelt upon, the faults of others too much, which has caused them to appear in too strong a light. Thus the errors of others have been, to me a snare and stumbling-block, and my feelings have at times become disaffected instead of being drawn out in kindness and forbearance. I would seek to know and correct my own faults and errors in the future, and study to be perfected in love toward all. I will strive to seek the Lord with my whole heart, that the heavenly angels may guide, and instruct, and lead me in the right ways of the Lord, and I be kept from the deceptive influence of Satan, and be sanctified through the truth, that I can shed light, and help others to prepare for the solemn events before us.
F. M. BRAGG.
Battle Creek, Mich.
C. LAWTON
By C. LAWTON
From Sr. Lawton.
BRO. SMITH: Never, before the present time, has the last great work of probation rested with such solemn weight upon my mind. The very mention of the word ought to stir the depths of our hearts. What an interesting, and yet fearful, time in which we live. Could we be permitted to witness the interest which is manifested in Heaven for us probationers, we might be aroused to a greater sense of our danger, and to make a wise improvement of time. Oh! how fast its precious moments fly. The solemn work of the last message of mercy is fast closing up. How is it with us, brethren and sisters? Do we realize that we are living in the day of atonement, when we should afflict our souls? and that this is an individual work? Each case must pass separately in the Judgment. If our sins are not confessed and forsaken, we shall not find mercy, but our names will be erased from the book of life. Oh! the thought of losing eternal life. Will we let it so easily go? Would we not resist unto blood? yea give up our lives? for this is nothing in comparison with eternal life? And yet how many will give it up for some sinful indulgence of the appetite? Oh! the love of self, and the world! Is it too great a sacrifice to give up these for eternal life? Put them in the balance and see which will weigh the heavier; or, place them side by side and draw a comparison between the loss and gain. What folly! Yet how many that profess to believe the truths of the third angel, and that we are living near the close of probation, are still clinging to their idols. Their love of self very much exceeds their love to God, and many are so in the dark they do not even see that this is the case with them. Fearful state to be in! O Lord, awake thy slumbering people.
When our wills are lost in the will of God, and it becomes as great a grief to us should we cross his will as it is now a pleasure to have our own way, we shall find it much easier to suffer with Christ, and to walk the narrow way; but this will never be brought about so long as we allow self to have dominion over us, and, by repeated acts of self-indulgence, nourish and strengthen its power. But we have got to engage in the work of self-crucifixion in a manner that will show we are in earnest, and with the apostle Paul, “die daily,” “keep the body under,” “make no provision for the flesh,” but live to glorify God in our bodies and spirits. Although it is a greater work to conquer self than to take a city, nevertheless it must be done if we would stand with the remnant on Mt. Zion. Let us cut loose from self and the world, and make a full surrender of all to God, and the work will be accomplished. When we get so we worship God more from love, not so much from fear, we shall find it much easier living, and our worship far more acceptable.
Brethren and sisters, let us gird on the whole armor, fight valiantly for our Master, and we will soon lay down our armor at his feet, and with his own hand a crown of life will be placed upon our heads.
C. LAWTON
Adams Center, Jeff. Co., N. Y.
A Prayer for Conversion
By M. Judson
Sr. M. Judson writes from Ohio: I feel thankful that I ever heard this truth that is to save God's remnant people. Earthly friends forsake me and turn coldly away. Instead of sinking down in despair and discouragement, may I be led by this to greater diligence; for the Lord is soon coming. Here are friends all around us who have never had the privilege that we have enjoyed of hearing the third angel's message. I feel ashamed of myself to think that I have let so many books and papers lie idly by me when so many are starving for the bread of life. The world has got such a strong grasp on my heart that my hands hang idly down. Pray for me that I may be converted to the truth, that its influence may be seen in my daily life. This is a dark place; but there may be some honest souls here who would believe if they could hear. I hope that the way may be opened.
Mercy for Others
IT is certainly better to be in the humble posture of a mourner, than in the proud gesture of a scorner.
DEATH-BED REPENTANCE.
By Dudley Marvin Canright
For my part, I have but little confidence in death-bed repentance. I have known a few cases myself, and each one who recovered gave up all his religion. Last winter I was called to visit a middle-aged man who thought he must soon die. He was in great distress of mind on account of his sins. He confessed to God with many tears, and made strong promises of obedience if he could only live. I frankly told him my fears about his performing his vows if he did live; told him that I had never known a person thus brought to repentance who lived a Christian after he was restored to health. But he most solemnly protested that he would be faithful to God if he could only live. The first time he could get to the meeting-house he would confess his sins, and own his Saviour.
He soon did recover, but that was the last of his religion. I often met him afterward, but he always avoided speaking to me. This was the way he kept his vows. Had he died as he was, his friends would have consoled themselves that he had left a bright hope behind; yet his subsequent conduct shows that he was only scared, not converted. Is it not the same with most of those who are thus converted? I fear that it is. Yet perhaps some may be saved who thus repent at death. But it is very dangerous to take this last chance. While we have health and strength, is the time to seek the Lord. We need to have time to put away our sins, reform our habits, conquer our passions, and form characters for Heaven. This is not the work of a moment.
Dear friend, are you waiting, and trusting your eternal destiny on this last hope and chance? Be warned in time. You are leaning on a broken reed, which will pierce you through with many sorrows.
Some ten years ago, there was a reformation where I lived. One gay, careless, trifling young man attended, but it was only to make sport. During the meetings he was taken very sick, and thought he must die. He sent for the minister, humbly confessed his sins, asked to be prayed for in the meetings, and professed to be converted. But as the meetings continued several weeks, he got well, and came to them, before they ended. Did he then keep his vows? No; he laughed and ridiculed as he had done before. When reminded of his promises, he said that he remembered nothing of them, and that he was out of his head when he made them. Beware of death-bed repentance!
D. M. CANRIGHT.
Appointments.
By P. C. RODMAN; A. C. BOURDEAU; CHAS. STRATTON; N. M. JORDON.
And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
Quarterly reports from ministers and church clerks of the N. Y. Conference, will be due Jan. 1, 1869. Please be prompt. Address E. B. Saunders, North Parma, Monroe Co., N. Y.
The next Monthly Meeting for churches in Rhode Island, will be held in Exeter, in the school-house at Gardner’s four corners, commencing Jan. 15, and holding over Sabbath and first-day.
Those coming by railroad will get off at Slocum’s Corners, and inquire for Clark L. Sweet. P. C. RODMAN.
Providence permitting, I shall hold meetings in Vermont as follows: At Johnson, Jan. 14, 1869; Wolcott, Jan. 16 and 17; Stowe, Jan. 20; Braintree, Jan. 23 and 24; Bristol, Jan. 30 and 31; and at the house of Bro. C. Smith, in Sutton, P. Q., the first Sabbath in February. A. C. BOURDEAU.
The next Monthly Meeting in the Southern district in Maine, will be held with the Topsham and Brunswick church, commencing Sabbath evening, Jan. 15, 1869, to hold Sabbath and first-day. Hope there will be a full attendance from the different churches. CHAS. STRATTON.
The next Quarterly Meeting for the Hundred Mile Grove church, Wis., will be held Sabbath and first-day, Jan. 23 and 24, 1869. We hope there will be a general gathering of the brethren and sisters. We also hope to see one of our ministers present on this occasion, as we have had no labor from our ministers at this church for about one year. N. M. JORDON.
Young Man Finds Employment
The young man mentioned in the Review of Dec. 22, 1868, has obtained a situation. This will be an answer to the many who have written, offering him a place.
The Hymn Book.
IT is called for. It is needed. And it will be made ready and put through the press as soon as possible, considering other duties. Those who have hymns possessing real poetic merit, expressing truth and praise to God, will do a favor in forwarding them to the Review Office. Our ministers especially are invited to interest themselves in this matter. Send immediately. GEN. CONF. COM.
AN INTERESTING INCIDENT IN THE TIME OF THE REFORMATION.
By John Nevins Andrews
D’AUBIGNE the author of the well known “History of the Reformation” is also the author of a series of volumes entitled the “History of the Reformation in the Time of Calvin.” This work covers a portion of the same time as the former history but relates peculiarly to the work of John Calvin. From the third volume of this series I extract the following interesting statement of the manner in which the evangelists observed the Lord’s supper at Geneva in the year 1533. J. N. A.
“A ceremony of another kind, more serious and absorbing, was in preparation. It was Passion-week, [i. e., that week in the year supposed to be at the very season of our Lord’s suffering] and the evangelicals felt the necessity of meeting in a spirit of Christian fraternity around the Lord’s table. On Holy Thursday (10th of April) fourscore men and several women assembled in the garden at the Pre’C’Eveque [Field of the Bishop]. First, one of them washed the feet of the others, in remembrance of the like act done by our Lord. It was not an idle imitation with them; they understood Christ’s meaning; reminding them that no one should refuse to descend to serve his brethren and equals, however low and abject the service might be; and they felt that if charity is abandoned it is because every one takes more than he wants, and despises almost all the others. After the washing of the feet the holy sacrament was celebrated. These energetic men humbled themselves like little children before God, and approaching the table in sincere faith, many experienced that the presence of the Redeemer, although spiritual, is real, and strengthens the inner man.” Vol. iii, p. 400.
BUSINESS AND PERSONAL
A limited space will be given under this head for Business Notices from the brethren, at 20 cents per line for each insertion. Parties must give good reference as to their standing and responsibility.
WANTED, a good Seventh-day Adventist blacksmith. Address JAMES HARVEY, North Liberty, Ind.
HUMILITY.
By Jos. Clarke
How few really understand what is meant by this term, humility, especially in this degenerate age, when pride is the ruling passion in all the walks of life. Everywhere, at all times, does pride lift its hideous front, and shamelessly magnify itself; and, worst of all, so common has it become that the veriest child is taught the ways and manners of the proud world around; and it is generally considered a virtue to exalt self, if done with taste and discretion. Indeed, one is reminded of the ancient Spartan proverb, that theft is no crime unless discovered.
O, sweet humility! how cruelly hast thou been exiled from human society, and only been permitted to remain in obscurity and seclusion, and even here hast thou been clad often in garments not thine own, and been made to appear as nearly like pride, thy deadly foe, as possible.
But truth cannot always lie hidden. So with humility. She will calmly arise. She will wear her own apparel; and though despised like the lowly Nazarene, like as he arose from his grave, a conqueror, so will humility assert its prerogative.
No substitute will answer to the purpose. The disciple must tread the thorny path. As Jesus wept for sinners, so his humble followers weep and mourn because of sin; and this sense of sin and its dreadful nature and tendency, begets a hatred of the same, and a dread of its touch; and when a due sense of dependence and danger is felt, then begins the growth of that sterling grace, humility.
“There is no royal road to learning,” said a celebrated teacher to a young and impatient prince; so there is but one road to God and Heaven; one way; one faith; and humility is gained only by suffering and pain. (I speak of the inward experience of the Christian.) Storms and winds do but strengthen the roots of the oak as it rocks from side to side in the tempest; so the Christian in trial bows low in the dust; freely and painfully he confesses to God his many departures from him. In this humble attitude he learns humility. Here his roots strike deep in the soil, and though no showy fruit appears, but rather the tree shows a rent and sorrowful appearance, here a limb torn away, there a broken bough, yet he has learned an important lesson; and it is this: To send out his roots deep in the soil; by repentance and sorrow of heart for sin, to appeal to God for help; to rest in him; to look away from self and outward appearance; to dig deep for a good foundation; to see it laid understandingly upon the rock; to see that no worm is eating the root of vital piety in the heart, but that all is healthy and pure within. Jos. CLARKE.