NOTICE.—A blue cross opposite this note indicates that your subscription will expire in two weeks. Please renew at once, as we shall be obliged to stop the paper unless we hear from you in that time.
NOTICE.—The change of figures on the address labels will be in all cases a sufficient receipt for money sent for the paper. If these changes do not in due time appear, and if books ordered by mail are not received, notice should be given. All other business is acknowledged below.
The P. O. address of J. Fargo, president of the Michigan Conference, will be Greenville, Montcalm Co., Mich., till further notice.
WILL Bro. G. B. Starr, of Nebraska, please send me the address of the young Swedish brother who has commenced keeping the Sabbath in Omaha, as I would like to correspond with him for the good of the cause.
JOHN F. HANSON.
Marne, Cass Co., Iowa.
ANY one in northern Michigan, wishing to employ a good hand through haying and harvesting, please correspond with Eli Smith, Wade P. O., Clare Co., Mich.
The permanent P. O. address of Smith Sharp, is Ottawa, Kansas.
Books Sent by Freight.
Lawrence & Ostrander, $42.96, Collins & Richards 6.33.
Books Sent by Express.
J B Ingalls, $5.00.
Cash Rec'd on Account.
Iowa T & M Society $31.72, E Van Deusen 44.12, G W Stillwell $16.16, Geo I Butler 25.00, N T & M society per B L W 150.00, D Morrison 2.00.
Gen. Conf. Fund.
Nathan Wheeler $25.00, J & J S Ollive per J W 5.00, Adolph Goome per J W 50.00, Sr Maddock per J W 50.00, F G Locke per J W 10.00, C A M Dunlap 30.00, Kan Conf per J W 100.00.
Danish Mission.
Steven Alchin $25.00, Rasmus Peterson 10.00, Laura J Jensen 2.00, John Lorentz 2.00, Chas F Stevens & wife per James White 50.00, Newell Grant per J W 20.00, Daniel Andre per J W 10.00, & M Edgerton per J W 5.00, S & A M Fulton 15.00, John Ely 100.00.
European Mission.
F H Chapman $10.00, E W Chapman 5.00, N Hoyt 5.00, Steven Alchin 100.00.
Mich. Conf. Fund.
Marshall, Jas K Gilbert & wife $17.00.
Mich. T. and M. Society.
Dist 4 per A Carpenter $5.00.
STANDARD TRACTS.
Redemption. A comprehensive view of the fall and its results, and the methods by which we are to be brought back again to the favor of God and to immortality. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Second Advent. Manner, Object, and Nearness of the Event. This deals with the great theme belonging to the present day, and sets forth the Scripture testimony concerning its manner, object, and nearness. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Sufferings of Christ. A most graphic and touching description of what the world's Redeemer has suffered for us; calculated to incite every one to new devotion and consecration to the cause of Christ. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Present Truth. A tract showing that every age has a truth applicable to it alone, and setting forth briefly that which is the present truth of this generation. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Seventh-Day Adventists. A Brief Sketch of their Origin, Progress, and Principles; including a brief notice of their different organizations, and what they have already accomplished. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Two Thrones. Representing the Kingdoms of Grace and Glory; showing the distinction between these two kingdoms, and the application of the many different expressions we find in the Scriptures concerning the kingdom of Heaven. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Seventh Part of Time. A clear exposition of the sophistry of that reasoning which would make the commandment indefinite, behind which so many attempt to hide, to justify their observance of the first day of the week. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Ten Commandments. They are not Abolished—a Review. This is a powerful answer to the modern delusive doctrine that the ten commandments have been abolished. Antinomianism here finds no quarter. It should be put into the hands of every one exposed to that heresy. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Two Covenants. Showing what they are, when made, with whom made, and the position held by the law of God under each. All presented in a manner easy to be understood. 32 pp., 4 cts.
Address to the Baptists, from the Seventh-Day Baptist General Conference. A book for all Baptists, showing that the same principles of interpretation which sustain immersion for baptism, also establish the seventh day as the Sabbath. 32 pp., 4 cts.
Spiritualism a Satanic Delusion. Its Origin and Progress. This work shows briefly what spiritualism is, and the terrible work it is doing, from the testimony of its own authors. It is a most scathing exposure of this last terrible delusion. 32 pp., 4 cts.
Samuel and the Witch of Endor, or the Sin of Witchcraft. A full exposition of that remarkable transaction recorded in 1 Sam. 28: 3–20, showing that it was a manifestation of ancient spiritualism, and that modern spiritualism belongs to the category of necromancy and sorcery, which are forbidden by the testimony of both the Old and the New Testament. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Rejected Ordinance. A careful and candid examination of the testimony of John 13, showing that the ordinance there instituted is still binding upon the church, notwithstanding it has so generally been lost sight of in Christendom. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Third Message of Rev. 14. This is a brief exposition of this last and most important message that goes forth before the coming of Christ. It briefly explains its symbols, shows how it is being fulfilled at the present time, and the fate in store for those who reject it. 32 pp., 4 cts.
The Second Message of Rev. 14. Showing what is meant by the term Babylon, and by the fall of Babylon, and when and how this message has been fulfilled. 20 pp., 3 cts.
The First Message of Rev. 14. A convincing argument on the chronology of this message, showing its application to the great Advent movement of the present generation. 16 pp., 2 cts.
Who Changed the Sabbath? Containing extracts from Catholic catechisms and other Romish works which show that the Papal power is the one that has changed the Sabbath, according to the prophecy of the word of God. 24 pp., 3 cts.
The Lost Time Question. An examination of the objection so frequently raised against the Sabbath, that time has been lost, and that we cannot tell which the seventh day is. 24 pp., 3 cts.
Scripture References. Containing propositions on many important Scriptural subjects, and a reference to the texts which sustain them. A great help in the study of the sacred Scriptures. 24 pp., 3 cts.
The End of the Wicked. The nature of this work is indicated by its title. It shows that the wicked are not to be eternally tormented, but are to die, be destroyed, perish, be burned up, be consumed, go into perdition, be cut asunder, cut down, cut off, rooted out, blotted out, pass away, and be as though they had not been. 24 pp., 3 cts.
Infidel Cavils Considered. A sermon by F. H. Newhall, D. D., of the Wesleyan University. A concise statement of the general principles on which the apparent discrepancies of the Scriptures are to be considered. It is a key to the solution of many supposed Bible contradictions. 24 pp., 3 cts.
Sabbaton. A careful examination of the Greek of Matt. 28: 1, and the other seven texts in which the expression, “the first day of the week,” occurs. Also an examination of Col. 2: 16. 24 pp., 3 cts.
Christ in the Old Testament. A tract designed to show that Christ is as much the author of the typical dispensation as of the so-called Christian dispensation. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Sabbath in the New Testament. An examination of the eight texts which speak of the first day of the week in contrast with the fifty-nine which mention the Sabbath, containing also an examination of the claim that redemption is greater than creation. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Spirit of Prophecy. A brief argument on the subject of spiritual gifts, showing their perpetuity in the Christian church.
Address, REVIEW & HERALD,BATTLE CREEK, MICH.
STANDARD TRACTS.
The Judgment: or, the Waymarks of Daniel to the Holy City. A running exposition of Dan. 7, from the days of Babylon to the lake of fire in which the power symbolized by the last beast of Dan. 7, is soon to be cast. 16 pp., 2 cts.
Much in Little. Being a selection of brief testimonials on man's present condition, the intermediate state, future punishment, etc., from reputable authors. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Millennium. A timely tract to meet the world's modern fable that all men are to be converted and a thousand years of righteousness to prevail before the Lord can come. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Law and the Gospel. Showing that these two systems are not opposed to each other; but are in the closest harmony, the law being the basis of the gospel; and that there could be no gospel without the law. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Two Laws. A good antidote to that false teaching which would destroy all distinction between moral and ceremonial laws. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Definite Seventh Day, or God's Measurement of Time on the Round World. A full answer to the common objection that the Sabbath cannot be kept because time differs east and west. 16 pp., 2 cts.
Departing and Being with Christ. An Exposition of Phil. 1: 21–24. An argument to show that this scripture does not contradict, but rather sustains, other Bible testimony which says that the dead are unconscious. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Rich Man and Lazarus. A thorough examination of this much misapplied parable, Luke 16: 19–31, showing that it does not teach what is popularly claimed for it. 16 pp., 2 cts.
Elihu on the Sabbath. About two hundred thousand copies of this popular treatise on the Sabbath have been circulated, and it has been translated into many different languages. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Coming of the Lord. By an English writer. A stirring and convincing little tract on this all-important theme. 8 pp., 1 ct.
The Perfection of the Ten Commandments. What a lawyer and an infidel say concerning them. A good testimony from good sources. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Without Excuse. A few suggestions to show that no one has any excuse for not knowing the times in which we live, and the events that are before us. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Thoughts for the Candid. Designed to show that the popular objection to the sleep of the dead, that it is a gloomy doctrine, applies, instead, to the popular view which holds that the majority of the human race are now in the lake of fire. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Appeal on Immortality. To which is appended forty questions on Immortality, with answers in Bible language. 8 pp., 1 ct.
A Sign of the Day of God. A conversation between a traveler and an observer. An application of the prophecy of Nahum to modern railroads. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Brief Thoughts on the Nature of the Soul, Resurrection of the Dead, and the Final Destiny of Man. The author of this tract is unknown; but in its brief pages we have a candid and comprehensive presentation of these important subjects. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Which Day Do You Keep? and Why? Designed to excite thoughtful inquiry on these two important questions. It also contains God's answers to man's excuses for not keeping his Sabbath. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Is Man Immortal? Scriptural answers to fifty-eight questions in reference to the important subject of the mortality of man. 8 pp., 1 ct.
What the Gospel Abrogated. The difference between the ceremonial and the moral law is here distinctly shown, and proof is given that while the ceremonial law was abrogated by the gospel, the moral law remains unchanged. 8 pp., 1 ct.
The Christian Sabbath. A tract showing that such distinctions as Christian and Jewish, applied to the Sabbath, are false in fact and meaning; that the Sabbath which Christians are now to keep, dates from the creation of the world. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Sunday not the Sabbath. The false claims of this man-made institution thoroughly exposed. 8 pp., 1 ct.
One Hundred Bible Facts upon the Sabbath Question. Sixty concerning the Sabbath, and forty concerning the first day of the week. Opponents of the Sabbath will find that, on the Sabbath question as on all others, facts are stubborn things. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Why not Found out Before? A brief answer to this popular objection against the introduction of any new truth. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Is the End Near? A brief statement of the evidence that the end of all things is at hand. 8 pp., 1 ct.
Can We Know? A short argument showing that the prophecies of the Bible can be understood, and that we may know when we are near the end. 8 pp., 1 ct.
The Sleep of the Dead. A brief presentation of Scripture testimony that the dead are unconscious until the resurrection. 8 pp., 1 ct.
The Sinner's Fate. Showing that the sinner is not to be in everlasting, conscious torment, but is to suffer death and utter destruction. They shall “perish,” “be burned up,” “consumed,” “devoured.” 8 pp., 1 ct.
The Old Moral Code, or the Ten Commandments not Revised. This is an appeal to the Christian world for the revised code, if it can be found, and the refutation of the false claim that the ten commandments are re-enacted in this dispensation. 16 pp., 2 cts.
The Sanctuary of the Bible. A comprehensive presentation of this important subject in a small compass. 16 pp., 2 cts.
Address,
REVIEW & HERALD,
BATTLE CREEK, MICH.
STANDARD BOOKS
Issued by the S. D. A. Publishing Association, and for Sale at this Office.
History of the Sabbath and First Day of the Week for the period of 6,000 years. By Elder J. N. Andrews. 528 pp. $1.00.
The Sanctuary and the 2300 Days of Daniel. By Elder U. Smith. This question has developed the people known as the Seventh-day Adventists, and is the pivotal doctrine upon which their applications of prophecy largely depend. 352 pp. $1.00.
Thoughts on Daniel, critical and practical. By Elder U. Smith. An exposition of the book of Daniel, verse by verse. 384 pp. $1.00.
Thoughts on Revelation. By Elder U. Smith. This work presents every verse in the book of Revelation with such remarks as serve to illustrate or explain the meaning of the text. 352 pp. $1.00.
Life of Wm. Miller, with portrait. This book gives interesting sketches of the Christian life and public labors of this pioneer in the Advent movement in this country. 416 pp. $1.00.
The Biblical Institute. Containing a synopsis of the lectures given at the Institute held at Oakland, Cal., in April, 1877. These cover the main points of our faith, giving facts and dates. 352 pp. $1.00.
The Nature and Destiny of Man. By Elder U. Smith. This work treats on the great questions of the condition of man in death, and his destiny beyond the resurrection. 356 pp. $1.00.
The Spirit of Prophecy; or the Great Controversy between Christ and his angels, and Satan and his angels, in four volumes. By Mrs. E. G. White. These volumes cover the time from the fall of Satan to the destruction of sin and sinners at the close of the one thousand years of Rev. 20. Each 400 pp.
Vol. I. Old Testament Facts to Christ. $1.00.
Vol. II. Life and Ministry of Christ. $1.00.
Vol. III. The Death, Resurrection, and Ascension of Christ, with the Lives of His Apostles. $1.00.
Vol. IV. (In preparation). $1.00.
The Constitutional Amendment. A discussion between Elder W. H. Littlejohn and the editor of the Christian Statesman, on the Sabbath. $1.00.
The Bible from Heaven. By Elder D. M. Canright. An argument to show that the Bible is not the work of men, but is in deed and in truth the word of God. 300 pp. $1.00. Revised edition (in preparation). $1.00.
The United States in the Light of Prophecy: or, an exposition of Rev. 13:11–17. By Elder U. Smith. Dealing with our own land and applying to our time, this is a portion of prophecy which should possess surpassing interest for every American reader. 200 pp. 40 cts.
Thoughts on Baptism. By Elder J. H. Waggoner. A careful examination of the subject of Christian Baptism in the light of history and the Bible. It presents strong arguments against the notion of Trine Immersion. 186 pp. Bound in flexible cloth, 35 cts. Paper covers, 25 cts.
BOOKS IN PAPER COVERS.
The Nature and Tendency of Modern Spiritualism. By Elder J. H. Waggoner. 184 pp. 20 cts.
The Atonement. By Elder J. H. Waggoner. An examination of a remedial system in the light of Nature and Revelation. 168 pp. 20 cts.
The Ministration of Angels, and the Origin, History, and Destiny of Satan. By Elder D. M. Canright. 144 pp. 20 cts.
Our Faith and Hope. Sermons on the coming and kingdom of Christ. By Elder James White. 182 pp. 20 cts.
The Spirit of God, its gifts and manifestations to the end of the Christian Age. By Elder J. H. Waggoner. 144 pp. 15 cts.
The Three Messages of Revelation 14:6–12. Particularly the third angel’s message and the two-horned beast. By J. N. Andrews. 144 pp. 15 cts.
The Two Laws, as set forth in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. By Elder D. M. Canright. 104 pp. 15 cts.
Matthew Twenty-Four. A clear and forcible exposition of our Lord’s discourse upon the Mount of Olives. By Elder James White. 64 pp. 10 cts.
The Sunday Seventh-Day Examined. A refutation of the teachings of Mede, Jennings, Akers, and Fuller. By Elder J. N. Andrews. 88 pp. 10 cts.
The Seven Trumpets. An exposition of the subject, as set forth in the eighth and ninth chapters of the Revelation. 96 pp. 10 cts.
The Tenth Found. The nature and obligation of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. By Elder J. H. Waggoner. 64 pp. 10 cts.
Vindication of the True Sabbath. By Elder J. W. Morton, formerly missionary of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, to Hayti. 68 pp. 10 cts.
Sermon on the Two Covenants. By Elder J. N. Andrews. 48 pp. 10 cts.
Hope of the Gospel. By Elder J. N. Loughborough. 80 pp. 10 cts.
Refutation of the Age to Come. By Elder J. H. Waggoner. This is a most decisive refutation of the view that men may find forgiveness of sins after the Saviour has closed his work in the Sanctuary above. 168 pp. 20 cts.
The Morality of the Sabbath. By Elder D. M. Canright. 96 pp. 15 cts.
Christ and the Sabbath; or, Christ in the Old Testament and the Sabbath in the New. By Elder James White. 56 pp. 10 cts.
Redeemer and Redeemed. By Elder James White. This work sets forth the plan of Redemption in three stages. 40 pp. 10 cts.
Systematic Benevolence. Setting forth the Bible plan of giving for the support of the ministry. 64 pp. 10 cts.
The State of the Dead. By John Milton, author of “Paradise Lost.” This work shows that Milton was a decided believer in, and an able defender of, the doctrine that in death man is unconscious. 32 pp. 5 cts.
Address, REVIEW & HERALD, Battle Creek, Mich.
NOTICE FOR KANSAS.
By Smith Sharp
ALL those having business to transact with the Kansas T. and M. Society will please address the secretary, Mrs. Ada A. Dawson, Battle Creek, Mich., care REVIEW Office.
The address of the treasurer is Wm. Dail, Ozawkie, Jefferson Co., Kan. Send money by draft.
The address of the secretary of the Kansas Conference is W. E. Dawson, Brookdale, Rush Co., Kan.
The address of the treasurer of the Conference is A. G. Miller, Topeka, Kan. Send money by draft or P. O. order.
SMITH SHARP.
TO THE NEB. T. AND M. SOCIETY.
By Chas. L. Boyd
1. Every member of this society is especially requested to attend his church quarterly meeting, and publicly read the previously prepared report of labor. Let some donation be made with every report.
2. To the Librarians: See that every member in your church is in due season furnished with a blank report. Remember that the interest of this meeting depends largely upon you. Condense the reports, and send them the following day to your district secretary.
3. To the District Directors and Secretaries: Hold your meetings promptly at the proper time. Remember that the success of the work in your district depends largely upon your efforts, and that God will hold you accountable. Make your quarterly meetings as interesting as possible. Have zeal, and impart it to others. Condense the librarians' reports, and mail them the day following your meeting to the State Secretary, Mrs. Annie E. Shepherd, Nebraska City, Neb.
4. Remember the words of the divine Master: “Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when he cometh shall find so doing.”
CHAS. L. BOYD.
WHAT IS THE PROSPECT?
By Milton C. Wilcox
That there may be a union of all the churches, the mother and her daughters, in the near future, appears altogether probable. Not that they will be united under one general head, but they will come to regard each other as sister churches,—branches of the one great body. And by a union of interests in some of the doctrines common to all, there will arise a union of purpose to crush out everything that opposes what they in common deem orthodox. The Church of England is not the only one that is drifting toward Roman Catholicism.
The N. Y. weekly Sun of June 4, in an editorial headed, “The Union of Churches against the Assaults of Scientific Men,” after calling attention to the General Assembly of Presbyterians, recently adjourned at Saratoga, and the progress of that denomination, which, with its offshoots, it calls “the most learned, wealthy, and influential Christian communion in this country,” says:—
“One of the most striking and instructive [the italics are ours] features of the proceedings at Saratoga was the gingerly way in which the Assembly handled the Roman Catholic Church. The question of the validity of Catholic baptism came up for consideration. Some of the Presbyteries had asked the Assembly to advise them whether, in case a person who had been baptized by a Catholic priest desired to join a Presbyterian church, it would be necessary to baptize him again. The Assembly rather evaded a direct decision of the main point; but after an extended debate, it relegated the whole subject to the church sessions, authorizing the ministers and elders of each locality to act upon the matter as they saw fit. The discussion disclosed the fact that a large majority of the Assembly recognized not only the validity of baptism by the Catholic clergy, but regarded Catholicity as a branch of Christianity, and as an important ally in the great contest now waging with rationalism, materialism, and other forms of modern skepticism.
“When we remember how severe were the attacks of Presbyterians only a few years ago upon the faith and policy of the Roman Church, it is astonishing to hear such admissions from the lips of men who claim to be the followers of the Genevan reformer of the sixteenth century. There is no mistaking the tendency of such utterances. If in the coming hundred years American Presbyterianism advances toward American Catholicism as rapidly as in the last hundred, the margin that will separate them on fundamental doctrines will hardly be wider than that which divided the Scotch Calvinists from the Arminian Methodists in the times of Wesley.”
May the Lord help us to be prepared for the great developments of the near future.
MILTON C. WILCOX.
SPEAK A GOOD WORD FOR IT.
By Stephen Nelson Haskell
A good word for what? The Medical and Surgical Sanitarium at Battle Creek, Mich. There are many reasons for this. First, the medical skill of those who have charge of this institution is not excelled anywhere. Nearly every remedial agent known is here employed for the relief of the afflicted. Secondly, it is so intimately connected with other institutions which relate directly to the work of God that those who visit the Sanitarium become more or less acquainted with the work of present truth. Thirdly, it is an institution that has been established in the providence of God, and therefore we can expect his blessing to attend it when it is conducted in his fear. God by his Holy Spirit has spoken concerning it. Fourthly, prejudice against present truth has been removed from the minds of scores who have received treatment at this institution; and as they have returned home, their influence has been decidedly in its favor. This we have known to be true in many instances. Our ministers should take an active interest in this branch of the work. They should carry circulars with them, to give to those who are suffering from disease, wherever they may find them. They should also carry with them a supply of the
DESCRIPTION OF THE SANITARIUM,
which, if discretion is used, may be left at public reading-rooms, and with proper persons. Be ready always to speak a word in favor of this branch of God's work, as well as every other. Of the miracles performed by our Saviour, more than two-thirds which we find on record pertained to a restoration of physical health and strength. In healing physical maladies the Saviour opened an avenue to the heart. “Who forgiveth all thine iniquities, who healeth all thy diseases.” Thus the forgiveness of sins and the healing of the body are frequently associated together in holy writ.
TO OUR MISSIONARY SOCIETIES
We appeal in particular upon this point. Do not neglect the sick and afflicted wherever you may meet them. Not only talk with them of the blessed hope, and pray with them, but instruct them how they may find relief from physical suffering. Call their attention to the Sanitarium, and explain to them the manner of treating disease which is there adopted. Many whose minds are prejudiced can only be reached by thus showing an unfeigned interest in their welfare, and it is a successful method of reaching others. Our presidents and secretaries should see that they have a supply of both kinds of the Sanitarium circulars, to place in the hands of missionary workers. There are thousands of public places which should be supplied, and tens of thousands of invalids who should be informed of the Sanitarium and its facilities for the treatment of disease. If you have not seen the circulars, send for them immediately. This institution should be filled this year with paying patients. When these patients return home to all parts of the country, they will carry with them a good report of what they have seen and heard, and thus a powerful influence will be exerted, in removing prejudice, and preparing communities to listen to the truth. Do not put this work off, but begin now. Are there not invalids in your neighborhood whom you can persuade to subscribe for Good Health, by telling them of the good instruction contained in it? Speak of the successful method of treating the sick at the Sanitarium, and leave them a circular. We should be awake to the wants and needs of the people, and, in every branch of the work, lead men and women to the truth.
Perhaps some will ask, “Can the poor be cared for at the Sanitarium?” We answer, Yes; if individuals are too poor to pay anything, providing the Conference to which they belong considers them worthy, and will pay a portion of their expense, the managers of the Sanitarium will make a liberal discount. But it should be remembered that additional facilities for treating the sick, including new buildings, have occasioned great expense, and also that the only help asked by the Sanitarium has been the loan of money at a low rate of interest, and the assistance of our brethren and sisters in sending patients who are not of our faith to the institution. Many are being treated elsewhere at greater expense than they would incur at the Sanitarium, and yet are receiving less benefit than they would here.
The principles of health reform sustain the relation to this cause that the right arm does to the body. Therefore, we say, Speak a good word for the Sanitarium. Speak at the camp-meetings, where you visit, wherever your attention is called to suffering humanity. God will bless you in so doing. S. N. HASKELL.
WISCONSIN CAMP-MEETING.
By G. C. Tenney
Up to this writing, Sabbath forenoon, this has been a successful meeting. We have a beautiful grove and a well-arranged camp; and we have enjoyed good weather. The attendance is as large as could be expected, and the brethren seem of good courage. Forty-six tents in all are upon the grounds. Forty-two churches are represented by delegates in the Conference. Forty schools are represented in the S. S. Association. Bro. and Sr. White, and W. C. White and wife arrived safely upon the grounds yesterday at 4 P. M. I hardly need say that great interest was felt in their coming, and as Bro. White's voice sounded through the grove last evening, our hearts were glad for the privilege of hearing him once more, and of seeing him in the possession of so good a degree of health and strength as he now enjoys.
To-day it rains, but we expect a good work. A model Sabbath-school is held at nine o'clock, under the direction of Bro. W. C. White. Bro. White speaks at 10:30, on the subject of Jesus and the resurrection; and Sr. White at 2:30, after which baptism will be administered in Fourth Lake, upon the bank of which the camp is pitched. G. C. TENNEY.
THE V. M. SOCIETIES.
By Stephen N. Haskell
The work of our vigilant missionary societies, in mailing the Signs of the Times to different parts of the world, is accomplishing much good. The Judgment alone will reveal the results thus accomplished. Many become interested, and finally embrace the truth, who never respond to letters they receive. Not a few instances have come to our knowledge, where papers which have been sent to individuals having no interest to read them, have fallen into the hands of others who have become interested, and in a few instances these efforts have led to churches being raised up. This work also gives an experience to the individuals thus engaged, which is invaluable to them. But there is another feature of missionary labor, lying nearer home, which should not be overlooked. Although relating especially to those having the oversight of churches (See Eld. Canright’s article “To Church Elders,” in REVIEW of April 24), much of this kind of labor can be performed by our sisters. They should visit and pray with those who may be losing their interest in the cause of present truth. They should see that each family has the REVIEW, Good Health, and Instructor. Do not neglect this work. Not unfrequently we hear of individuals getting into “doubting castle,” and falling a prey to Satan. The first the church knows about the case, they are lost. Is no one responsible for this? Perhaps there was a V. M. society in the same church, actively engaged in remailing papers every week. This distribution is all right, but we should remember that we owe a duty one to another in our church relation. It was Cain who said, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” implying that he had no responsibility in the matter.
You may plead that the work is disagreeable, and you have not the time to devote to it; but are we not living on this earth to do good and exemplify the spirit of Christ? Is there any work in which we can engage, that will develop this spirit more than this? We are fast approaching more troublous times than any we have as yet witnessed. We are not prepared for it. The testimonies to the church should be read by every family. Are there those in each church who feel the responsibility of looking after these things? Do not say this work belongs to some one else. The language of the apostle in Phil. 2 is addressed to us individually: “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” He “made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” As those who profess to follow in the footsteps of our divine Lord and Master, are we prepared to meet the record of our lives in the Judgment?
The reading of our periodicals and the testimonies together with a daily study of the Bible will be a strong fort against the attacks of Satan. God in his providence has given the testimonies as a spiritual help to his people. In them, we are warned concerning particular dangers which lie in our pathway, the journey through. A responsibility with reference to reading them ourselves, and inducing others to do the same, rests upon us who believe these things. We feel deeply over this matter. There is a great lack in our churches in respect to feeling for each other’s spiritual welfare. “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another; and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.”
There should be more sociability in our churches; but the object should not be to talk about our farms, our shops, our merchandise, but of the truth, of victories gained, and of each other’s spiritual welfare. This will be health and strength to us spiritually. Try it, brethren and sisters. Do it immediately. Do not put it off, but reform at once, and see how it works.