"THERE is a time, we know not when,
A point, we know not where,
Which marks the destiny of men,
To glory or despair.
There is a line, by us unseen,
That crosses every path,
The hidden boundary between
God's patience and his wrath.
To pass that limit is to die—
To die as if by stealth;
It does not quench the beaming eye,
Nor pale the glow of health.
The conscience may be still at ease,
The spirits light and gay;
That which is pleasing still may please,
And care be thrust away.
But on that forehead God has set
Indelibly a mark,
Unseen by man for man as yet
Is blind and in the dark.
Oh! where is that mysterious bourne
By which our path is crossed,
Beyond which God himself hath sworn,
That he who goes is lost?
How far may we go on in sin?
How long will God forbear?
Where does hope end, and where begin
The confines of despair?
An answer from the skies is sent—
'Ye who from God depart,
While it is called to-day, repent,
And harden not your heart.'"
To Bro. M. B. Smith, Marion, Iowa.
By Joseph Harvey Waggoner
I WAS interested in your query iu the last Review ; it is an important subject aud should be well understood by all. And I was much pleased that Bro. Andrews had furushed in advance such an excellent reply.
It is proverbial of infidelity that it offers only objections—it rests upon uegatives : denying everythiug, furushiug notiug. And such is about the position of our "auti-visiou, uo-law" opponeuts. They seem to think that we have only to build—they ouly to pull down. But I think they ought to bear the labor of their own cause, if they have a cause. Therefore, and for our general satisfaction, I wish you would procure their answers to the following questious :
What is the cleansing of the sauctuary ?
Wheu will it be cleaused ?
When, and by whom, will the atouemeut be made?
Yours, in the third angel's message.
J. H. WAGGONER.
Extracts from Letters.
Sister N. G. Sanders writes from Rush Lake, Wis.:
I have been reviewing carefully the great truths on which our faith rests and I find that I am encompassed on every side with truths which lead to the solemn conclusion that the great day of the Lord is near and hasteth greatly; that the two thousand three hundred days did verily end in 1844; that the message of the first angel was given then, announcing the judgment hour come; that Jesus did then enter the sanctuary to cleanse it; and it must follow that his work there must soon close, and the reapers be comissioned to gather the harvest of the earth.
I turn my eyes to the world and find all things working in proof of these things: troubles, wars, commotions, fear and perilous times. I hear men who a few years ago were professors of religion, and seemingly had tasted of the good things of the world to come, denying the Lord that bought them, counting the blood of the covenant where-with they were sanctified an unholy thing, ridiculing the atonement calling it the night of paganism, &c. Surely Satan is preparing his best for the last conflict.
These considerations suggest to me the question, where am I? I have professed to believe these things about nine years, and yet I am conscious that I do not stand as fair in view of them now, as I did several years ago. By shunning the cross I have fallen under the power of temptation and have done and said many things which I ought not. But I thank God that he has not left me entirely to myself, and that I may yet find grace to help in time of need. I have been making some efforts of late to fulfill duty long neglected, and the blessing of God has witnessed to his willingness to be found of those that seek him. If I am not deceived in myself, I do desire wherever I am wrong to be set right. A half hearted religion does not pay; as those who have it neither enjoy the world nor the love of God. Such I would no longer be; for I have tasted of the fruits of that better land, and I long, O I long, for the clime where faith shall be lost in sight, hope be turned to glad fruition, conflicts, temptation and trials end in eternal triumph, where clouds shall never again hide from a sorrowing heart the rays of the Sun of righteousness,
"Where we shall see his face,
And never never sin,
And from the rivers of his grace,
Drink endless pleasures in."
Sister C. Lamberton writes from Marshfield, Vt.:
Perhaps some who labored here with the tent last fall would like to hear a word from me. I feel that I am a pilgrim and a stranger here, and one alone, yet not alone; for Jesus has promised to go with us to the end. Last fall while Elds. Hutchins and Bourdeau were here, I became convinced of the truth of the Sabbath and the third angel's message; and I feel thankful for the light of truth, which is more precious to me than silver or gold, and I desire to be sanctified through the truth, and be wholly the Lord's. I have great reason to thank the Lord for his goodness to me. I have been a believer in the Advent truth over ten years. When I first heard the sound of Jesus' coming it was a blessed sound to me. I still feel that I can "wait till Jesus comes."
I sometimes feel almost discouraged when I look at the things of the world, foes without, and foes within, and such perilous times. I can meet with none of like precious faith. I have none of whom to ask advice when tempted, tried, or in trouble, none to worship with at the feet of Jesus; but when I read the Review it seems like having a little meeting.
I am thankful that I have a Friend to go to who is better than any earthly friend—one who is able to give more than I can think or ask. Many times my faith has been strengthened while reading the Review, and I feel thankful to those kind friends who have sent it to me. My faith is strong in the truth of the Sabbath, and I feel to thank the Lord that he ever showed me by his faithful servants the truth, that I no longer should break his holy law. But I realize that it is a great work to be a Christian. It is a very easy matter to talk it out, but a great work to live it out. But by the help of God strengthening us, I believe that we can do all that he requires of us.
What Belongs to God—What to Us.
A VIRGINIA circuit preacher gives the following illustration of "faith that would remove mountains," which he heard from the lips of a negro preacher, who was holding forth to his congregation upon the subject of obeying the commands of the Almighty:
"Bred'ren," said he in his broken way, "what-eber de good God tell me to do in dis blessed book"—holding up at the same time an old and evidently much-read Bible—"dat I'm gwine to do. If I see in it dat I must jump troo a stone wall, I'm gwine to jump at it. Goin' troo it belongs to God—jumpin' at it 'longs to me."
Simple and homely as was the illustration, it had an evident effect upon the limited comprehension of the preacher's hearers.
Obituary Notices.
DIED, in Denmark, N. Y., my niece, Alma J. Otis, of the dropsy on the brain, aged 3 years and 8 months.
She was a lovely child, and had lived with us three years. We had learned to love her, and so much so that we had idolized her. But she has been removed from us, and we feel that it is all for the best; for we are commanded not to set our affections on things on the earth. We hope that it will prove a blessing to us. We hope to meet her in the new earth, where there will be no more tears shed, and where death will be destroyed.
A. O. THOMPSON.
Died, in Stockbridge, Vt., April 30, 1863, of scarlet fever and congestion of the brain, after an illness of not quite two days, my son, Albert F. Packard, aged 16 years. We have laid him away in hope of the soon appearing of Christ, and the resurrection of the just.
MARY A. PACKARD.
Note from Bro. Fuller.
By N. Fuller
BRO. WHITE: We pitched the tent at this place the 5th inst. The weather has been very unfavorable since, the nights being cold and rainy. But we have had good congregations, and there seems to be some interest manifested. We have decided to continue the meetings through the week, and longer if the interest demands.
But I feel quite disheartened on account of our dear Bro. Andrews. He was taken very sick on the night of the 7th, and is no better this morning. Was taken with chills, followed by fever. We hope the Lord will not suffer him to be kept from his field of labor, when there is so much to be done. We ask your prayers in this time of need, that our dear brother may be restored to health again.
N. FULLER.
Wellsville, N. Y., June 9, 1863.
Small Things.
A YOUNG lady once presented me with a book-mark having the inscription "God bless yon," and exacted the promise that it should be placed in my Bible, bnt never to remain a day opposite the same chapter. Faithful to my promise, I took it home, and, rnbbing from the lids of my Bible the dnst of a week, I placed it in the first chapter of Matthew, and daily read a chapter and changed its place. I had not read long before I became interested as I had never been before in this good book; and I saw in it truths, that I was a sinner, and mnst repent if I would be saved. I then promised God that I would seek his face at the earliest opportunity, and, if he saw fit to convert my sonl, that I would spend my life in his cause. It came; I sought his face, and received the smiles of his love; and now now I have a hope within me, "big with immortality;" and all do I attribnte to that book-mark, and the grace of God. Oh, my readers, "despise not the day of small things." A word spoken in season, a simple Christian act, a sincere, simple prayer, may turn a poor wandering sinner from the error of his ways.—Sel.
Note from Bro. Ingraham.
By William S. Ingraham
Bro. White: My visit in the northern part of Wisconsin I hope was not in vain. I failed to reach my appointment at Mauston in consequence of being called away to attend a funeral. Our meeting at Kickapoo Center was one of interest. The people listened to the word with great attention. Five were baptized, and a small church organized.
The last Sabbath and first-day in May was a quarterly meeting in Monroe. The Protestant Methodists kindly offered to us their meeting-house on this occasion. Brethren were present from McConnell's Grove, Crane's Grove, and Avon. Bro. Sanborn was with us, and aided in preaching the word. This meeting was one of interest, and the saints enjoyed much freedom.
Wm. S. Ingraham.
The Ohio Conference.
By J. H. Waggoner
THE Conference at this place was a good one. The business sessions were not long, but very pleasant and harmonious. The General Conference did us, (and the other States), a great favor, in furnishing us with an excellent Constitution. This made the labor of the Conference comparatively light. And the faithfulness and diligence of our kind brethren of the Review were appreciated, as we unexpectedly received a printed copy before our business meetings commenced. Eight were baptized, on first-day, four of the number having embraced the truth in this place last winter.
This is nearly the eastern limit of the work in this State: for this reason some thought it was wrong to appoint the Conference here. But there are scattered ones east of this, upon whom little or no labor has been bestowed, and I think the committee acted wisely in changing the location of the Conference. Our Brn. must get more of the missionary spirit. The Third Angel's message does not belong to one locality; ours is truly a missionary work, and I am glad that our brethren are beginning to realize it. As far as I could see and judge not a shade of dissatisfaction existed at the Conference; all seemed to understand the necessity of union, and determined to labor for it. Pray for us, that our labors be successful.
We expect to pitch our tent in Columbia Centre, Lorain Co. P. O. Copopa, Ohio.
J. H. WAGGONER.
Wakeman, Ohio June 3.
Go Forward.
By R. Smith
STAY not halting, be decided!
With God's people take your place,
They who seek a home in heaven
All must run the Christian race.
Though the Red sea is before you,
And the Egyptians in the rear,
Venture forward, no retreating,
Linger not a moment here.
If you go, you can but perish;
Onward move where God can save.
Hasten ere you're with the wicked,
Sinking 'neath the swelling wave.
God here meets his trusting people,
Makes a passage through the deep,
He'll display his power in saving
Those who his commandments keep.
R. SMITH.
West Wilton, N. H.
Report of Ohio Conference.
THE Ohio State Conference met according to appointment, May 31, and organized by calling Bro. H. J. Kittle to the chair, and choosing Bro. H. Baker Secretary. Prayer by Bro. Brinkerhoof.
The permanent organization of the Conference being a matter of chief importance, the Constitution recommended by the General Conference was read, considered, and adopted, without a dissenting voice.
A committee was then selected to nominate the officers called for by the Constitution, who reported as follows, viz. : President, Oliver Mears, Secretary, H. F. Baker, Treasurer, P. Ferciot. Ex. Com., Jos. Clarke, and I. N. Van Gorder. The report was accepted, and the individuals severally elected.
The balance of the session was employed in matters of no general interest, which all passed off harmoniously and agreeably.
We are a few people here, and have suffered much from the wiles of the enemy, scattering and dividing us; but we separated, convinced more than ever, I think, of the necessity of unity, of closing up our ranks against the enemy, and of becoming one people, thus convincing the world that God hath sent our Master, that he may be thus glorified in us, in the day of visitation close upon us.
H. J. KITTLE, Chairman.
H. F. BAKER, Secretary.
MICH. CON. COMMITTEE
By MICH. CON. COMMITTEE.
Owing to the facts, 1. That so much ministerial help has gone out of the State, 2. That there are so many calls for labor in new places, and 3. That the prospects for good in Allegan county seem just now to demand a special effort, arrangements for quarterly meetings throughout this State cannot be made at present. Brethren will please try to be patient till these meetings can again be resumed.
MICH. CON. COMMITTEE
Appointments.
PROVIDENCE permitting, Bro. and sister White will meet with the church at Monterey, Mich., Sabbath June 27th, where they hope to see a general gathering from Allegan, Otsego, Watson, Ganges; also from other places as the brethren may esteem it a privilege to attend. There will be an opportunity for baptism. They will hold meetings in Allegan, Sunday the 28th.
Bro. and sister Byington design to meet with the brethren at Otsego, Mich., Sabbath, June 20.
THE next quarterly meeting of Seventh-day Adventists of Sandyville Iowa, will be held on the fourth Sabbath and first-day of this month.
Sister churches are invited to attend. Brn. Snook and Luke are requested to be present.
Come one, come all, praying for the blessings of the Lord to attend us in our meetings. A. J. STOVER. June 6th, 1863.
WE would say to the brethren in Oneida, that Bro. J. B. Frisbie will visit them, at the conclusion of his visit to New Hudson. He will probably inform them of the definite time. M. C. COMMITTEE.
Business Department.
Business Notes.
O. M. Patten: All right.
RECEIPTS.
For Review and Herald.
Annexed to each receipt in the following list, is the Volume and Number of the REVIEW & HERALD to which the money receipted pays. If money for the paper is not in due time acknowledged, immediate notice of the omission should then be given.
E. Halleck 2,00,xxiii,10. D. C. Elmer 1,00,xxiii,1. J. H. Cottrell 1,00,xxiii,1. E. Rose 0,50,xxiii,1. B. N. Berry 2,00,xxiv,1. M. A. Crary 2,00,xxiv,20. J. Kemp 1,00,xxii,1. J. S. Matthews 1,00,xxiii,1. Mrs. O. J. Dayton 1,00,xxii,17. J. Nichols for W. Nichols 2,00,xxiii,10. L. Sargeant 1,00,xxiv,1. O. H. Pratt 1,00,xxii,19. S. McEvoy 1,00,xxiv,1. T. Bracket 0,50,xxiii,1. J. Jones 1,00,xxiii,1. T. Brown 1,38,xxiii,4. J. A. Wilcox 1,00,xxiii,1. J. P. Kanagy 1,00,xxiv,20. Ch. at Liberty, Iowa for M. V. Ferris 5,00,xxiv,1. J. T. Rogers 1,00,xxiii,1. E. Spencer 2,00,xxiv,11. R. Miles 2,00,xxiv,11. A. H. Robinson 0,50,xxiii,1. Emma J. Maxon 2,00,xxiv,11. J. Sannders [sic] 1,00,xxiii,7. S. N. Walsworth for Mrs. A. Walsworth 1,00,xxiv,1. J. N. Loughborough for J. L. Edgar 1,50,xxiv,14. C. Lawton 2,00,xxiv,1. A. Wright 1,00,xxii,1. W. S. Fairchild 2,00,xxiv,1. Wm. Law-ton 2,00,xxiv,1. Lucenta Potter 2,00,xxiv,1. D. D. Bartlett 1,00,xxiii,1. C. Lawton for Nancy M. King 1,00,xxiv,1. H. Bunce 2,00,xxiv,1. L. Green 2,00,xxiv,11. H. Hilliard 1,00,xxiv,1. H. Crosbie 2,00,xxiv,14. H. Crosbie for E. Dalgrien 0,50,xxiii,1. S. Whitney 1,00,xxiii,13. E. Dow 2,00,xxiv,1. R. Love-land 5,00,xxiii,1. J. H. Sparks for Mary D. Jenkins 0,50,xxiii,1. E. A. Averill 2,00,xxiv,1. Crarina Pix-ley 2,00,xxiv,1. Mrs. N. Dennison 2,00,xxiv,1. H. A. St. John for Joel Yonng [sic] 0,50,xxiii,1.
Review to Poor.
M. A. Crary $1. Hannah Briggs 25 cts.
For Shares in Publishing Association.
H. G. Buck $10.
Donations to Publishing Association.
Ch. at Oneida, S. B. $3.
Cash Received on Account.
E. Halleck for Isaac Sanborn $1. R. F. Cottrell $3. H. H. Wilcox $5,52. A. S. Hutchins for S. Bing-ham $8,22. A. S. Hutchins $1,78.
Books Sent By Mail.
Eli Rose 6c. E. Sanford $1,70. J. H. Rogers 25c. L. Sargeant $1,25. C. M. Holland $1. Levi Bailey 20c. M. D. Falconer $2. H. L. Richmond 40c. J. Kemp 25c.
General Conference Missionary Fund.
Ch. at Greenbush, Mich. $10. Ch. Adam's Center, N. Y. $10. E. Bullis 20c. H. Hilliard $2. Lucia Morris $5.
The Fifty Days to Pentecost
QUESTION. Is there any proof that the pentecost was fifty days and no more from the passover?
ANSWER. Lev. xxiii, 15-21 describes the feast of pentecost, and it is there said that fifty days shall be counted from the day that the sheaf of the wave offering was waved before the Lord; and this wave offering was offered on the morrow after the Sabbath, not the weekly sabbath, but the ceremonial sabbath which was observed on the first-day of the feast of unleavened bread. Verse 7. See also verse 11, which refers to the same thing, verses 4-14 inclusive, being a description of the events of the passover week. At the time of the crucifixion of the Saviour, the passover Sabbath and the weekly Sabbath came together, which is supposed to furnish an explanation of the language in John xix, 31, that "that sabbath day was an high day." From the day of the wave offering seven sabbaths (meaning weeks) were to be complete, which would be forty-nine days, and the day following was the feast of weeks, or the pentecost. The word pentecost signifies the fiftieth.