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Review and Herald, Vol. 22, No. 3.

The Moral System
Earlier text: The Moral System

Lessons for Bible Students.

LESSON XVII.

(HISTORY OF THE SABBATH, PP. 178-192.)
To show that the "stated day" of Pliny's epistle is the first day of the week, what has been done?
What is the argument on this point?
What two facts are asserted to be established?
To prove this, what statement does Dr. Edwards make?
What English first-day author uses the same argument?
From what work is this statement derived?
When was this argument first brought forward?
For what purpose was it produced?
Is any such question to be found in the Acta Martyrum?
Was any such question as this put to the martyrs in Pliny's time?
What questions were put to them as late as A. D. 304? p. 220, top.
Does the word, Dominicum, as here used, mean Lord's day?
What is it used to signify?
To sum up the evidence on this point, is there any record of any such question being put to the martyrs in the time of Pliny?
Was any such question asked of any martyr prior to the fourth century?
How many instances in which any such question was asked can be claimed?
And in this instance, what does a correct translation of the original show?
All this is upon the supposition that the Acta Martyrum is an authentic work; what does Mosheim give as its true character?

ORIGIN OF SUNDAY OBSERVANCE.

How ancient is the festival of Sunday?
Did it originate from any divine command?
From what fact has the first day of the week obtained the name of Sunday?
What does the North British Review style that day?
What led to the introduction of this heathen festival into the Christian church? [Ans. "Patriotism and expediency." p. 225.]
What three reasons does Chasie give why the early Christians should not keep any other day? p. 226.
Did the early church pay special regard to any other days besides the Sunday? p. 228, top.
What days were thus distinguished at a very early period?
How do these days compare in sacredness?
What does Domville say of the ecclesiastical writers of the first three centuries?
What did "patriotism and expediency" finally do?
Who bears the earliest testimony which has any claim to be regarded as genuine?
What does Milner say of the works ascribed to Justin Martyr?
What do the writings which are ascribed to him really teach relative to the Sabbath?
Does he assign any divine precept or apostolical example for the festival of Sunday? p. 232, top.
What does the American Tract Society, in a work published against Romanism, say of the authority of Justin as a religious guide?
What reasons does Justin assign in support of Sunday observance?
To this what does Jeremy Taylor reply?
Let it be remembered that this mention of Sunday observance by Justin was written when he was at Rome, and addressed to the emperor; consequently the first trace of Sunday as a Christian festival is found—where?
In his dialogue with Trypho, the Jew, does Justin treat the Sabbath as a friend or an opponent?
What does the testimony of Justin show, and why? p. 234, first paragraph.
Who is the next important witness in regard to first-day sacredness?
What are the words of Irenæus relative to the Lord's day?
What does Sir William Domville say concerning this quotation?
To what authority do those refer who quote this as the language of Irenæus?
Where did Dwight obtain this testimony?
What is probably the true origin of the quotation?
What words of Jesus does this case illustrate?
By what kind of an edict did the bishop of Rome make his first attempt to rule the Christian church?
Did the other churches accede to the demand of the Roman pontiff?
What action did the council of Nice take in this matter?
What reasons did Constantine urge for this measure?
Who was Tertullian, and when did he write?
What does the language of his excuse for Christian Sunday-keepers show?
How does Milman speak of Tertullian?
Of what is Tertullian's testimony a valuable acknowledgment?
What is the earliest authentic instance in which the term Lord's day is applied to the first day of the week?
What writers present the first trace of resting from labor on Sunday?
According to Tertullian's testimony, how was Sunday observed in his time?
What was the first great effort made by the church of Rome to put down the Sabbath? p. 242, top.
At what time did the Western church begin to fast on Saturday?
What does Neander state as the motive of the Romish church in this thing?
What other writers confirm this testimony?

"Experienced Religion."

By R. F. Cottrell

THERE is a reality in the experimental part of religion—the comfort of the Holy Spirit to the truly converted person—the earnest and pledge of future inheritance and an everlasting life in a sinless, and therefore happy, world. But to make this feeling or experience the leading object, the first and prominent thought, the all in all of religion, is not in harmony with the records of the primitive church. We do not read in the New Testament of any one experiencing religion, though doubtless they did. We are not informed when Paul experienced religion, but it is evident that a great change or conversion took place with him about the time that he visited Damascus. This was the beginning of his Christian experience, though not of his religious; for he testifies concerning his former life, that "after the most straitest sect of our religion, I lived a Pharisee." So it appears that he was religious before, and that his religion was the very best in the world at that time, except that which embraced what was then "present truth"—the religion that gave credit to God, not only for making the promises to the fathers concerning the Christ, but for fulfilling them to those then living upon the earth.
It should also be observed that, though he had long been a zealous professor of religion, he had had a zeal not according to knowledge; in other words, that he was self-deceived; for he "verily thought that he ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth;" and so notwithstanding his former religious experience, he was found fighting against the truth. But Saul of Tarsus was converted into Paul the apostle; and it is truly desirable that many now, that have long since had a religious experience, should also be turned from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, give up their opposition and embrace present truth.
Do not these thoughts about having experienced religion often deceive people and hinder them from embracing the truth? Would it not be better for people if they knew that religion consisted more in believing and doing, than it does in feeling? Faith in the word of the Lord, and obedience to the same, was the leading idea in the primitive church, if we may judge from the records of the New Testament.
Instead of reading that such and such persons experienced religion, we read as follows: "Then they that gladly received the word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." Acts ii, 41, 42. "But when they believed Philip, preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women." Chap. viii, 12. "And the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." Verses 36, 37. "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." Chap. ix, 6. "And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." Chap. xxii, 16. "Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, has sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales; and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized." Chap. ix, 17, 18. "And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshiped God, heard us; whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized," &c. Chap. xvi, 14. "Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes, and was baptized, he and all his straightway." Verses 30-33. "And the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith." Chap. vi, 7.
Thus we are informed of their faith and obedience. And not obedience to the gospel institution of baptism alone, but to the law of God. Repentance of their transgressions of the law of God, was first and prominent in apostolic preaching. Repentance toward God, and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, was everywhere preached. Said Peter to the Jews, "Unto you first, God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities." Chap. iii, 26. A person turned away from his iniquities is turned to obedience of the law of God. "Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sin." Chap. v, 31. "All unrighteousness is sin." "Sin is the transgression of the law." Therefore every sin is a violation of the law. No forgiveness is promised without repentance. And he that repents of all his sins, turns to obedience to all the law of God. Hence without obedience to that law, no pretended faith in Christ, or baptism for the remission of sins, would avail anything. The great object of the gospel is to turn men from sin to obedience to the law. Hence the first command of Peter on the day of Pentecost was, Repent. These things were written before the apostasy—before Romanism had cast down the truth to the ground, and Antinomianism had trampled it under its feet. Still the foundation of present truth—the law of God—is laid so firmly and so broad in this record, that there is no lack of evidence for the perpetuity of this law. We are not building on a new foundation. We are not giving prominence to that which had no prominence in the days of the apostles.
But was there not some experience which the first disciples had—some feeling—something besides believing and doing? Was not the Holy Spirit given, and did they not rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory?
Certainly; but this followed their faith and obedience. "And we are his witnesses of these things; and so also is the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him." Chap. v, 32. The promise, on condition of obedience, was "Ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Let no one trust that because he has experienced religion, he is secure, while neglecting theincreasing light which now emanates from the unsealed page of inspiration. The increase of light lays new responsibilities upon us, as well as upon Saul of Tarsus. The faith and practice of the "straitest sect" of these times, who are so "exceedingly zealous of the traditions of their fathers," will not answer the present demand.
R. F. COTTRELL.

A Plain Duty.

By A. S. Hutchins

SAID JESUS, ‑If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.– John xiii, 14, 15.
Notwithstanding the ordinance of feet-washing is thus clearly enjoined upon the followers of Him who condescended to wash his disciples' feet, yet pride and prejudice have found what are said to be ‑unanswerable arguments– against its observance.
Says Peter, ‑We ought to obey God rather than men.– Acts v, 29. And John says, ‑Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.– 1 John iv, 11.
A query here arises, Is love to God and love one to another enforced in stronger terms in these texts, than the above ordinance is, in the language of the Saviour?
Who would think of giving the texts last quoted an interpretation which should only require the Christian to have humility enough to love God and his brethren, without ever calling this love into exercise?
‑By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments; and his commandments are not grievous.– 1 John v, 2, 3.
Here we see that love manifests itself by obedience, by doing the will of God. Thus it is with Bible humility; it is not dormant, but active; ‑Serving the Lord with all humility of mind.– Acts xx, 19.
Some denominations have in their infancy and humility practiced feet-washing as a gospel ordinance, which have years since laid it aside. Among these are the Free-will Baptists. Many years after their rise they observed it to some extent.
Speaking on this point their historian says, ‑It was claimed by those who entered heartily into this observance, that it was often among the most precious seasons of their experience.–
This agrees with the declaration of the Master, ‑If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.–
Alas! that man should have forgotten that ‑the servant is not greater than his Lord, neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.– John xiii, 16.
A. S. HITCHENS.

When Shall Jesus Come Again?

[FROM THE PROPHETIC TIMES, published in Philadelphia, Pa., we copy the following excellent thoughts on the literal second coming of Christ.]
When our blessed Lord said, in that memorable and useful farewell discourse to his disciples, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself, that where I am, there ye may be also,” and again, in the same chapter, “Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away and come again,” he certainly meant something emphatic and interesting, and such as to excite earnest and prayerful inquiries as to how, for what purpose, and when, he shall come again. But first of all, and perhaps the most important inquiry, is, What did our Lord really mean by his coming again? It is here, perhaps, the main stress of the controversy existing between us and those who differ from us in opinion lies. In a brief paper we can do little more than mention some of the different meanings attached to the phrase “coming of the Lord.”
Some understand by it the Lord’s coming to individuals at death. This we regard as a very improper use of the word. It is not true, in fact. Jesus does not come to the individual at death.
In not one case in the New Testament can the phrase “the coming of the Lord” be justly taken to denote death. In the passage where it is most freely and frequently used in this sense, it will by no means bear this signification: “Therefore be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of Man cometh.” The sense of a passage is best determined by the connection in which it stands. Jesus had just been revealing the circumstances of his second coming: “Then shall ye see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” He followed the prophecy with illustrations and warnings, comparing the suddenness of the event to those in the case of Noah and Lot: “Watch ye, therefore; for ye know not the hour when your Lord doth come.” We can see no transition of subject, no figure of speech in the case. He does not come in the clouds of heaven at the hour of death. We think it an unwarrantable use of Scripture for any critic to apply it to the death of an individual.
Another meaning attached to the phrase “coming of the Lord,” and strongly laid hold of by some, is a spiritual coming, by his word and influences. Their stronghold here is a passage in Thessalonians, relating to the final destruction of the Papacy: “Then shall that wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming.” It is taken for granted by many that both the consumption and destruction of Popery will be accomplished by the light and power of divine truth. *
If this were the meaning of the apostle, it would be using terms that confuse rather than enlighten the mind. There can be no doubt that the coming of the Lord here means his glorious personal appearance at the final destruction of the spiritual Babylon.
With regard to this spiritual coming in the power of his word and spirit, it is an idea strongly laid hold of in order to evade the doctrine of his personal coming at that period. But, if they cling to the idea of a spiritual coming in this and many other passages, they cannot prove that Christ will ever come personally at all. He might as well come spiritually to judge the world at the end of time; as come spiritually to judge and destroy the great apostasy. If they will insist upon these comings referred to as being figurative or spiritual only, then there is not a text in the Bible that will satisfy them that Christ will ever come personally. Christ has come spiritually, or by his word and spirit, already, and has been with his Church at every period. “Wherever two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of you.” “Lo, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” His spiritual presence was in a wonderful degree with the Apostle John; yet he earnestly prayed, “Come, Lord Jesus.” He is spiritually present with his true Church as much
as ever: therefore the promises, prayers and expectations not yet realized must refer to his personal and not to his spiritual advent.
While on this subject, we may advert to the best evidence of the true meaning of the phrase; and that is the term used by the inspired writers to express it. The term used is the Greek noun parousia, which lexicons say signifies a coming, an arrival, a presence, and implies or conveys the idea of the personal presence of the individual spoken of. Thus the word is used to express “the coming of Titus,” “the coming of Stephanus,” and the reference to Paul himself, “my coming.” Paul in writing of his opposers, has this remark: “His letters, say they, are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence [parousia] is weak.” About twenty times the same term is used to express the coming of Christ. By what logic, or art of criticism, his coming can be made to signify anything else than a literal coming, we cannot easily comprehend. An intelligent, pious reader of the Bible, with a very little assistance to help him examine and compare scripture with scripture, will derive more satisfaction on this subject from the simple word than from many commentaries.
But, although allowed to understand distinctly the import of the phrase, “coming of the Lord,” it is not permitted us to know the precise date of the advent. “Of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but the Father only.” The word therefore is, “Take ye heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time is.” But, although ignorant of the day and hour, we are not left altogether in the dark as to the signs of its near approach; and he is worse than foolish who takes no note of these signs. The Christian who is really desirous to know his Lord’s will, is a close observer of providences. The Bible reveals the general principles of human conduct; but he may learn much as to present and particular duty by watching the present and particular aspects of the little providences around him. Every little incident has a voice more or less clear; and he who is passive to the will of God, waiting on him, as it were, from moment to moment, will be most likely to fulfill aright his responsibilities. If God is thus careful to guide with his eye individual believers who wait on him, he is no less careful to instruct his church collectively, when they, with humble deference to his will, study his general providence in connection with his word in reference to the great events of the future in which they are so deeply interested. We do not then become prophets; yet we may see far in advance of a thoughtless world, and even of a slumbering church. In regard to the first advent of the Saviour there were many incidents revealed which we wonder were not taken notice of by those who had and professed to study the Old Testament, and which gave rise to the stern reproof, because they “discerned not the signs of the times.” But there were a few, even then, praying and waiting in faith, “looking for redemption in Jerusalem, and for the consolation in Israel;” and they were not disappointed. In like manner there are many in the present day who are looking up, and lifting up their heads for the redemption which is drawing nigh.
The question at the head of this paper is one which is agitated, and occupying the thoughts, in many a pious soul. It respects the great event, continually re-iterated, by way of warning or encouragement, by every writer of the New Testament.
The last sentiment uttered in the canon of Scripture is, “He which testifieth of these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen.” And the prayer immediately breathed out was, “Even so come, Lord Jesus.” Surely, then, at this late day of the Christian dispensation, it is a question worthy of serious consideration, and ought to be kept before the mind of every believer in revelation.—Prophetic Times.

To-day, if Ye will Hear his Voice.

By Mary W. Howard

It has been said by one occupying a high position in Christian literature (Edward Beecher) that “the coming of God no man can avert, but if one occupies a position of danger, he may change it for one of greater security if he will.” But when is this exchange to be made? Is there to be afforded a more favorableopportunity than the present? There may be louder notes of warning given, but it is unsafe to presume. God will be forever guiltless, though there be no louder cry or stronger evidence granted. For it becomes all in these days of general intelligence, to understand the great currents of thought which are passing through the Christian world.
If to have Moses and the prophets, left one without excuse in our Saviour's day, as his words clearly indicate, of how much greater condemnation shall those be accounted worthy who resist the added light afforded by the New Testament scriptures, and the investigations of the learned and good who have made the Bible their study? Nor is it any excuse that there are conflicting opinions concerning the phrase, “coming of God.” What if the pantheist would make it the development of his imaginary colossal man? What if the millenarian would make it the diffusion of the spiritual reign of Christ? What if the spiritualizer would make it the separating of soul and body at death?
“Nevertheless, what saith the Scriptures?” “The Lord Jesus Christ shall judge the quick (the living) and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom.” 2 Tim. iv, 1. “But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” Luke xvii, 29, 30.
By a sort of divine soliloquy, we learn that God debated, “Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do?” and Lot was warned and spared for Abraham's sake. Gen. xxx, 29. Though a warning was given of the impending doom of the cities of the plain, the sons-in-law whom Lot in his solicitude sought to warn, regarded him as one that mocked. Of what avail then would it have been if he had rushed through the city, proclaiming, “Yet ten hours, and Sodom shall be destroyed! Yet ten hours, and Sodom shall be destroyed!” He would only have been laughed at for his insane credulity. “Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” The divine command is, “Though the vision tarry, wait for it.” And if Paul could pray, “The Lord direct your hearts into the patient waiting for Christ,” need those who wait, or expect that coming, heed the scoffing jeers of a doomed world?
Hark! the Redeemer rends the sky! A mighty voice before him goes— A voice of music to his friends, But threatening thunder to his foes.

Report from Brn. Loughborough and Hull.

By John Norton Loughborough; Moses Hull

OUR meeting with the brethren at Adam’s Center was one of interest to us, and we trust will be of profit to the cause there. Nine discourses were given in all. On Sabbath and first-day the house was well filled with attentive hearers. Our social meetings were refreshing, as the Spirit of the Lord seemed to have access to all hearts.
On Monday our meeting was for the purpose of considering the wants of the church. Four new ones united with the church, among them a brother who has been held back for a time by his connection with worldly associations. The church now numbers twenty-two members, and have a commodious house of worship. It is their earnest request that Bro. and sister White hold meetings with them on their Eastern tour, if they can make it convenient so to do.
The subject of systematic benevolence was also considered during the meeting, and all were ready to enter into it on the principle set forth on the first page of our S. B. books. The result was, the figures were raised from $56 per year, to $197,66.
Yesterday we came on to this place, ninety miles, and had a long, interesting, and spirited meeting with the church here, after which the brethren and sisters remodeled their pledges to the S. B. fund, adopting the tithing principle, which increased their figures over $20.
This afternoon we go on to Rouse’s Point, one hundred miles, to meet evening appointment there. We are well, and free in the Lord. Brethren, pray for us.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH.
MOSES HULL.
Grass River, St. Law. Co., N. Y.

Letters.

"Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another."

From Bro. Sanders.

BRO. WHITE: Cheerfully I take my pen to inform you and the brethren scattered abroad of what the Lord has done, and is doing, for us here in Allegany. The Lord is good, bless his holy name. We have just passed another Conference season, and have been greatly blessed, revived, and strengthened. Our meeting commenced Sabbath evening May 9. by a good spirited prayer and Conference meeting in which many participated. We met again Sabbath morning by 9 o'clock and resumed our meeting where we left off the night before. Many came in from abroad and cheerfully took hold with us. One dear sister who had been very sick, but by the prayer of faith had been measurably restored to health so as to come to our meeting, came, and full of the spirit of the Lord gave us a testimony that seemed to run through all the congregation. There was no holding back upon that occasion. The fire once kindled seemed as if shut up in the house, and that it must find vent. Two or three on the floor at a time ready to give in their testimony. At about 11. o'clock the meeting took another turn. After a short intermission, we all listened to a timely discourse from our beloved Bro. Fuller from Ulysses, Pa., from the words of Peter "Lord save me." This subject was very applicable to the time in which we live. It was set home by the spirit and power of God. May the Lord ever bless Bro. F. After an intermission of one hour we listened to a continuation of the same subject. We had an ordinance meeting evening after the Sabbath in which many participated for the first time. It was a solemn and also a joyful waiting before God. Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed promise, God help us all to be of that number is my prayer.
We came together first-day morning at 8 o'clock for business and also to pay our monthly donation into the S. B. fund. Bless the Lord for system in all things. We adopted S. B. last Oct. Since that time nearly $60, has been paid in, from our little church. At nine o'clock conference season commenced again with a deep, heart-felt interest. After a short discourse from Bro. Fuller, we repaired to the water where five were ready and willing to follow the example of their blessed Lord by being buried with him in baptism to arise to newness of life. Among these there was an old Methodist sister nearly seventy years of age who has but lately seen the light of present truth, and stepped out on the commands of God and the faith of Jesus.
O, what joy lighted up her countenance when she saw the commandments that had been so long hushed up by the traditions of men. But another severe trial came. She saw the necessity of becoming pure and holy to be ready for coming of her blessed Master. In order to do this, her tea, coffee and tobacco, must be laid aside. This she tried some two or three weeks before our conference and when the time arrived she was ready to place all on the altar and go forward trusting in the living God for help and when she came to the water's edge she stepped in with a look of heaven upon her countenance, and with a shout of triumph arose from the liquid grave. She is now happy in her little cottage, having great joy, peace, and love that casteth out all fear, ready and waiting the return of the Coming One.
Dear Bro. and sisters, you who have not cleansed yourselves from those worthless habits, take example from this aged sister and never say you can't. Go about it in the name of the Lord and you will gain the victory. There were twelve added to the church at this conference. Since our organization last August our numbers here almost trebled. Bless the Lord for perfect order. The cause in Allegany is on the rise.
We have not had any great excitement here but a general growth in grace moving on gradually, all the while. Prejudice in the minds of the honest is giving away and many are coming out to hear. May the Lord help us to rise with the message, and go forward and be ready to be presented a glorious church without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, is the prayer of your humble Bro. striving to overcome.
J. G. SANDERS.
Wellsville, N. Y.

From Sister Crandall.

BRO. WHITE: It has been some over two years since I started to serve the Lord; and I can say that I am truly thankful to him for his goodness and loving-kindness and that although unworthy I can feel that his watchful care is over me. I know that he has blessed me many times; and it is my greatest desire to walk worthily before him. That I may by patient continuance in well doing, seek for glory, honor, and eternal life in the kingdom of God. I want to have a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. I ask the prayers of the brethren and sisters scattered abroad, that I may be prepared to stand through the time of trouble, and that I with you all may eat of the fruit of the tree of life, and walk the golden streets of the New Jerusalem.
Your sister striving, to overcome.
M. A. CRANDALL.
Woodland, Wis.,

From Bro. Kent.

BRO. WHITE: With pleasure I seat myself to pen a few lines to inform you that I am trying to keep the commandments of God. I commenced keeping the true Sabbath last March. The Bible taught me long ago that the seventh day was the Sabbath of the Lord; but I did not then understand that I could come outalone and keep that day. It often troubled me to think that man changed the day. I felt that man had no right to alter God's law.
When I asked the why and wherefore, I was told that if we gave to God one seventh part of our time, it was sufficient; but I could not reconcile it. The first light I received on the subject was obtained by conversing with Bro. G. F. Richmond. He also let me have books to read which pointed out the true way, which together with his example gave me courage to step out upon the promises of God, regardless of circumstances, I embraced the truth, and with God's grace assisting me I am determined to press my way on to the haven of eternal rest.
O that I might stand upon Mount Zion with the 144,000, to sing the song of Moses and the Lamb. O, I want to be an overcomer, it is my heart's desire to be a true Christian. O, that God would revive his work here in the East, and elsewhere, until every honest heart shall flock to the standard of truth. O, for a clean heart and a right spirit. For this I pray.
Yours striving for the truth.
L. B. KENT.
Brattleboro, Vt.

From Bro. Morey.

BRO. WHITE: I have been thinking that perhaps a word from a lover of truth from these remote parts is due the great and glorious cause in which we are engaged. One year ago the unadulterated truths of the third message were presented to my mind in a clear and pointed manner by Brn. Ingraham and Sanborn; and being an earnest inquirer after truth, I had tried to never suffer prejudice to gain the ascendancy. Such was my determination, that during the four weeks which they lectured, I attended almost constantly, even though it was a very busy time of year to me, being a farmer. Seeing it was truth I was bound to accept it. I feel thankful to God that I have been ushered into this glorious light, and that the fog of mysticism which characterizes the doctrines of the sectarian world has been blown away by the breath of truth.
The next thing in order was for me to live out the truth, and be sanctified through it, which I have been trying to do. I belonged to the Methodist church for three years before I heard the truth, but was not satisfied in regard to the doctrine. The great question of my mind was, What is truth?
I realize truly now that the dragon is wroth and making war against the remnant of the woman's seed that keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. His power is manifest among the flock of Sabbath-keepers here. Some cling to their idols like Ephraim of old, thereby virtually trampling the first great commandment of our Saviour in the dust. While such is the character of some, there are others who have renounced their idols, and are battling the enemy while waves of opposition dash against them. Yet we hope, by trusting in God, to be guided and gathered with the remnant to mount Zion.
T. E. MOREY.
Elmwood, Peoria Co., Ills.

From Sister Priest.

BRO. WHITE: I have been thinking for a few days past, I would like to speak through the Review of the goodness of God to me, also try to exhort and encourage others.
Last winter I had another attack of lung difficulty. My health failed rapidly. Myself and friends were satisfied it would soon end my days, unless I had speedy relief. I was impressed, it was the will of the Lord I should be raised up. In answer to prayer, I was strengthened to attend the meeting at Peterboro, when Bro. Hutchins and Bordeaux were laboring there. We laid the case before the Lord, I was anointed and fervent prayers were offered, but the blessing was withheld until Bro. D. T. Bourdeau, moved out according to the word, "These signs shall follow them that believe, they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." Then prayer was answered. The healing power came from the Son of God. I want like the one anciently to return and give him glory. My health is better than for three years past. Surely what God is like our God! I am glad that I am among a people that believe the word of God. He has promised that the gifts should be in the church until the end. His word can never fail, no it will stand fast forever.
We met with the brethren in New Ipswich and vicinity, last Sabbath. I believe there are twelve, who manifest a determination to go forward, added to that little company, as the fruit of the labor in Peterboro. This cheers the hearts of the old pilgrims in that section and still they find inquirers after truth.
For one I thank the Lord that he has directed Bro. Loughborough and Hull to New England, but their labors will be crippled, unless the church work too. Brethren and sisters we must come up to their help. Holy living, fervent prayers, and means are wanted. I am satisfied we hinder the work of God. You know, anciently, Israel could not move when there was one Achan in the camp. Would it not be well for us to read over and see how particular God was with reference to obedience. It is more acceptable than sacrifice. It is an individual work. Moses and Aaron and the elders of Israel might be obedient and yet for complaining Miriam the whole camp of Israel was stayed. If we will walk up to the light, keep the commandments of God fully, and have the faith of Jesus, we shall see the work move on in power.
How important that we have order, especially here in the East where the cause has so long languished. God is bringing out a people here that will stand forth clear as the sun, and fair as the moon, and terrible as an army with banners. How can it be without order?
Dear friends in the East, let us examine our hearts, put away everything that will be a clog, lay aside every weight, and work while we have help. Every one can, and must work or lose their reward. While the angel of mercy hovers over us, and the servants of God try to strengthen the things that remain, let every true-hearted soldier of the cross, be at his post. May the Lord help us to gird on the whole armor.
Yours desiring to be faithful.
M. L. PRIEST.
Clinton, Mass.

Asking and Receiving.

By Elvira Sanford

“HITHERTO have ye asked nothing in my name. Ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John xvi, 24.
How forcibly did our Saviour endeavor to impress the minds of his disciples with the necessity of prayer, and the joy they might receive from it. Ask and ye shall receive. What a stimulus to induce them to pray. As I read the passage I was much struck with the force of it. Hitherto ye have asked nothing in my name. Ask and ye shall receive that your joy may be full. How many of those that are striving to get ready for translation have asked and received, until their joys are full? I fear not all; and why is it?
Christ says, “Hitherto ye have asked nothing in my name.” Asked nothing as we ought; asked nothing with that faith which brings the blessing, so that our joy may be full. How important that we ask aright; that we come to God believing that he is, and that he will answer our prayers.
Dear brethren and sisters, I wish I could express as it has been impressed upon my mind for the past few days, the importance of praying right, coming to God as to a kind Father, with a dear brother to intercede for us. We have such an Intercessor at the throne of grace. O, brother or sister, you who desire that your joy may be full, ask and ye shall receive. There is no failure about it. You will have the Spirit of God to help you continually. O that we, as a people, looking for the coming of the great King, may begin to ask and receive great things. Let us look up. Let us not only believe the testimony given, but obey it, cleanse ourselves by obeying the truth, and stand ready to meet our coming Lord.
Elvira Sanford.
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