Did Paul dissemble, or do anything contrary to Christ or the gospel (Acts 21:26,) in being purified according to the law? S. S.
ANSWER. There is no just reason to believe that Paul in this act did anything that displeased God. It was done by the advice of James and of the elders at Jerusalem. Paul's judgment concurred with theirs, and it is likely that the eminent men who were of Paul's company approved the act. The united judgment of such men of God, deliberately given, on an occasion of such importance, is entitled to our highest confidence. It was not at all like the act of Peter at Antioch which Paul so severely reproved. Gal. 2:11-14. If Paul's act at Jerusalem was one of dissimulation, like that of Peter at Antioch, it places him in a far worse light than Peter placed himself in by his error. For if Paul wrote these words to the Galatians after his act at Jerusalem, and that act was one of dissimulation, then in his accusation he should have joined himself with Peter in this kind of sin, if indeed he had not confessed his own sin only, and passed that of Peter in silence. But if he wrote the epistle to the Galatians before this visit to Jerusalem, and did, after condemning Peter's dissimulation, which appears to have been the result of sudden temptation, deliberately enter into the like sin, his fault was a very serious one indeed. But there is no hint that he sinned at all.
What then did Paul do which has given occasion to this question? James proposed a certain act which Paul should do publicly as an evidence to the people of Jerusalem that he had not taught the scattered Jews, whom he had met in Gentile cities, that they should omit circumcision, and cease “to walk after the customs.” If Paul had taught the Jews to do this, then, whether the act which James proposed was right in itself or not, the apostle Paul made himself a deliberate liar, inasmuch as this deed was designed to show that he had never acted in that manner. But no one will affirm that this was the case. Paul had not preached circumcision; but, on the other hand, he had never advised the Jews to abandon it. So far was he from this that he had circumcised Timothy, whose mother was a Jewess. Acts 16:1-3. His act, then, was not one of falsehood, while Peter's virtually was; for Peter acted before those who came from James as though he was too strict to eat with the Gentiles, whereas this was not true. Gal. 2:12.
But Paul participated in a certain act commanded only in the ceremonial law. This is true, but it is not true that he has ever said that such a thing is wrong. Several such acts may be found in his ministry. Acts 18:18, 21; 20:16; 16:1-3. The act was this: There were four men among the brethren who had made the vow of the Nazarite, which was, in substance, that they would set themselves apart for God for a certain time in tasting neither wine nor grapes, and until that time was expired, they were not to shave the hair or beard. Num. 6. It seems that in this case their vow had one week more to run. At the end of this time, they had certain offerings to make which involved quite a heavy expense. See Num. 6. Paul was advised, not to make the like vow, but to publicly associate himself with the men, and to assume a share of the expense in which they would be involved, and when these offerings had been made, then the men were to have their heads shaved, to signify that their vow was fulfilled. This, Paul did on the next day. He gave public notice that in seven days from that day he would appear with those men and participate in the conclusion of their vow, especially in the charges to be incurred by them. I am not able to see any impropriety in this. He knew that the Jews at Jerusalem were about to seize him (Acts 21:11); but he wished as far as possible to conciliate their prejudices, and to leave them without excuse for their murderous acts.
J. N. A.
Laborers Wanted.
By George I. Butler
NEVER have we felt the want of laborers more than we have this season. The fact that the work is extending over so large a surface of territory, and that some of our old hands are laid up temporarily by sickness, and that there are so many calls in all directions, makes this statement plain. Our greatest want is laborers. Why are they not forthcoming? It is not because there are not a sufficient number of men who might do good in this direction. There are scores of them who might make strong men, successful laborers, as ministers if they would but take hold of God’s work as they do of their own. In Iowa, where my acquaintance is most extended, there are several who should have taken hold of the work of God ere this. They have talent enough. They are strong men in anything they undertake—men who can favorably impress their fellows, when they have worldly schemes to forward—men of influence, men of character and respectability. And while those who have gone out to labor, and try to supply the lack caused by others being called away to work in other fields, to keep the cause from sinking down, have to work at great disadvantage, one man taking the whole burden of tent-labor, these even might be with them, or laboring in other localities, bringing souls to Christ. So it is in all the States. Calls have been coming in to the General Conference Committee this whole season: “Can’t you send us some one? Do send us a laborer.” Tents lying by unused, and souls perishing for lack of light, and men claiming to be Christ’s servants capable of enlightening them, but will not! Can it be said to such, “Well done, good and faithful servants”? These things are most painful to those who love the cause, and have responsibilities to carry in connection with it.
Our ministers who have the cause of God at heart, are in danger of breaking down in health, simply because they see so much to do. How can they keep still without criminality? Will not those who might come to their assistance, but do not, have to answer for their having to bear these extra burdens?
It is not those merely who are willing to preach a little, who are wanted. It is intelligent, devoted, earnest workers; men who make up their minds to save themselves and all they can around them; who devote themselves to saving souls with the same resolution that men do to become lawyers, doctors, or members of any profession. These do not expect to accomplish their objects merely by a little sympathetic feeling. They go to work to become intelligent in their profession. They study and practice. They gain knowledge by observing others who have succeeded. They do it for a temporal object, to make money, or gain a reputation.
Why cannot men who believe the Lord is coming to destroy the world, and all who are unprepared, go to work to save souls? be Bible students? study to be workmen, and set before their fellow-men the mighty issues upon which eternal destinies hang? They can set about this just as intelligently as they ever did about any business they ever accomplished in their lives, seeking God with all their hearts the meantime, that he will bless their efforts. If they are not sufficiently educated to do this satisfactorily, our land is full of schools. We have one of our own, specially designed for the purpose of imparting the necessary instruction. Oh! what a noble object for men of sense to seek for, would this be. Infinitely higher is this than the amassing of wealth, a good name among men, or a life of pleasure-seeking. And especially with our views of the closing of time, should we expect men to volunteer for this noble work. It must be a lack of faith that keeps men from it.
The Master calls, “Go work in my vineyard.” He promises good pay, even a life of joy that never ends. We may see others saved to all eternity by our efforts. We may enter into the joy of our Lord. This world will soon pass away. The Saviour will come. Shall we do nothing to save our fellow-men! Shall we stand by and see others faint, and not come to their assistance? May God forbid.
What keeps men back? With some, it is the love of the world. Says John, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. The world passeth away and the lust thereof; but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.”
With some, it is the fear they shall not be as successful as some others. They are not willing to do little duties. Unless they can be as able ministers as some they have in their mind, they will do nothing. Such motives will never stand in the Judgment.
Some know they are not consecrated to God enough to do the duties of the minister successfully. Why do they not then become so? Why not humble their hearts before him with weeping and contrition? They cannot be saved unless consecrated to God; unless willing to be anything he wants them to be.
Some are unwilling to leave home and families, and meet opposition. “Seek first the kingdom of God,” the word says. The Lord’s service must be uppermost in our hearts or he will not accept us. We must follow Christ. He left Heaven to come here and save us. We must love our fellow-men enough to be willing to forego the comforts of this life or we are unworthy the name of Christians. The martyrs set us an example. We cannot enter Heaven and selfishly do what we like best. We must seek the salvation of those around us, if it costs us something. This is not our home. Here we must toil for the good of the cause, for it is sacred.
Oh! how much there is to do; and how few are willing to work. May the Lord of the harvest raise up laborers for it. The fields are white. The days of reaping are just upon us. Let us bestir ourselves earnestly.
GEO. I. BUTLER.
Battle Creek, Mich., July 31, 1873.
The Wisdom of Keeping Secrets
It is a mark of the soundest wisdom not to pry into a secret, and, when found, of the purest honesty not to reveal it.
More Than Conquerors Through Him That Loved Us
“THE only way to be conquerors is to be ‘more than conquerors through Him that loved us.’”
Orange, Mich.
By N. D. Richmond
The quarterly meeting of Dist. No. 8, Mich., was held in Orange, July 6. The meeting was one of interest to all present. The object of the Tract and Missionary Society was set forth by the Director, and all seemed to feel to some extent the importance of the work before us. After the reading of the Secretary’s report, pledges were called for from the Director for the Delinquent Fund. (This call was for the benefit of those who were not present at the tract meeting held at Greenville by Eld. S. N. Haskell, June 14 and 15.)
Pledges were received amounting to $35.60. This, in addition to what had already been pledged, brings the amount for the District to $511.60, $184.60 of which has been paid. Several shares were also taken in the school fund. The T. and M. Society in this District reports as follows:—
No. of families visited, 79; No. of letters written, 28.
Received for memberships, $5.00
“ by donations, 15.25
“ from book sales, 7745 pp., 17.25
On delinquent fund, 184.60
Total, $222.10
New subscribers for Instructor, 10; Reformer, 1; Advent Tidende, 34.
Tracts and pamphlets loaned, pages, 10,497, $6.37
Tracts and pamphlets given away, pages, 9664, 6.23
Total, pages, 20,161, $12.60
N. D. RICHMOND, Sec.
Greenville, Mich.
Southern Iowa Tent.
By G. V. Kilgore
At the time of our last report, we had pitched the tent, and were ready to commence meetings July 17. Have been blessed with good weather and a good hearing. In consequence of the busy harvest season, we have not been able to secure the attention of the farming community; yet the average attendance has been over two hundred. Bro. Olds, not hearing from his family, became uneasy about them and his harvest, and returned home, July 17.
The opposition was greater here than usual against our view of the soon return of the Lord from Heaven. The evidences relating to the signs of that event were controverted by a minister of the place, by stating that the stars referred to that should fall were the planets, and not meteors; also, that the 2300 days did not begin in 457 B. C., but at the time the vision was given to Daniel, which was in 334 B. C., according to the best chronology he could find, and would terminate in A. D. 1966. His efforts proved the truthfulness of the apostle’s words, “For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.”
My brother has already given twenty-three discourses upon the “Prophecies,” “Sabbath,” and “Nature of Man.” These are the general topics of conversation throughout town and country. The interest is as good as at the beginning. We have regular meetings on the Sabbath, and six or seven have commenced to observe it. We are encouraged still to go forward. Pray for us.
G. V. KILGORE.
Marengo, Iowa Co., Iowa, Aug. 7, 1873.
The Swedes.
By James Sawyer
We are pleased to speak of the character of some of this nationality. Many of them are industrious, energetic, and faithful citizens, and some act much like consistent Christians. At least, they manifest a great zeal for the church to which they belong. Here, in Kane Co., Ill., are about 1000. In this vicinity, some females manifest a remarkable zeal, of which it might be well to speak, in order to show what can be done by some who labor only for a livelihood.
In the first place, some of these worked out in Sweden for small wages, and saved enough to pay their passage to America. Others had their passage paid by their brother, or friend, who came to the States and labored until he had saved means to send back for them.
Now some of these females who came here in this way have, during the past year, paid forty-five or fifty dollars each toward purchasing a meeting-house in Geneva, twenty dollars toward building a place of worship for a sister church, ten dollars for the salary of their minister, have money left in the bank, and yet dress neatly, but not gaudily. These are, also, what might be considered workers, that is, in the prayer-meeting their voices are heard.
That is, no doubt, a strong affection which induces one to labor on, month after month in the midst of strangers, hardly being able79at first to speak a word intelligibly, until money is saved to bring a brother, a sister, a father, or a mother, to his embrace; and yet many of the Swedes do this.
When the first brother’s or sister’s passage is paid, then the love goes out after the second; and in a few years, the social circle is gladdened by the happy voices of a family group who sing the joyful tunes of their fatherland. Soon we see them, by industry and economy, each having a snug little home.
But in all their efforts for their own comfort, this people are still remarkable for a devotion to their church. And money is always ready to sustain the religion of their choice.
We have reason to hope that many of this nationality have hearts already prepared for such truths, which are calculated, according to the prophecies, to go forth and gather out from “peoples, nations, and tongues,” such as shall be ready for our soon-coming Saviour.
Geneva, Ill., Aug 7, 1873.
James Sawyer.
DO YOU PRAY?
When the cares of life perplex you,
And its little ills so vex you,
Driving all your joys away,
Toil-worn brother—do you pray?
When the tempter tries to charm you,
And his subtle powers disarm you,
Causing in your heart dismay,
Christian—do you always pray?
When your heart is sad and weary,
And the world seems dark and dreary,
When you cannot see the way,
Weary wanderer—do you pray?
When earthly hopes and friendships fail you,
When human aid cannot avail you,
On the altar do you lay
All your griefs, and humbly pray?
Jesus loves to hear us pleading,
When for us he’s interceding;
Let us all our burdens lay
At his feet, and watch and pray.
Indiana: Tent Meetings at Michigantown Close
By S. H. Lane; E. R. Jones
Indiana.
Our last report was written about one week before we closed our labors at Michigantown. The people came to hear until the close. We gave the last discourse in the tent, Sunday evening, July 20. Although the evening was unfavorable, on account of rain, to a general attendance, the tent was well filled. More present than at any previous meeting. The Lord blessed in speaking the word, and when we made a few farewell remarks, many were affected to weeping.
As we look over the series of meetings, we are more than ever convinced that when the truth is presented in a proper manner, it will command the respect of the people. The truth, although presented in weakness, left an excellent impression upon the public mind, as the following, which we clip from the county paper, will show:—
“Our friends, the Sabbatarians, have just taken up their tent, after a six weeks’ stay with us. I believe the time was spent with much pleasure to them, and their course of lectures were thankfully received by a large majority of our best citizens. The meeting was conducted in a purely religious manner.” This was written by an influential citizen of the place.
Some fifteen or twenty have commenced to keep the Sabbath. A Sabbath meeting and Bible-class has been established, which is well attended. We have sold thirty dollar’s worth of books, and obtained seven subscribers for REVIEW.
The people were very kind to us from the first. They, of their own accord, donated to us in money to aid in our expenses, $31.35. May the Lord reward them for their liberality.
July 26, commenced meetings at Rossville, Clinton Co. This is a pleasant village of about four or five hundred inhabitants. The congregations thus far have been large and attentive. We hope, through the blessing of the Lord, to accomplish much good here.
S. H. LANE,
E. R. JONES.
Waterloo, Wis., Aug. 7, 1873
By P. S. Thurston; John Atkinson
Wisconsin.
July 16, commenced meetings at Liberty Pole, Vernon Co. The church here were laboring under many discouragements. They had been looking a long time for help. We visited the brethren and labored with them and their families at their homes in the daytime, and preached in the evening. The Lord helped us in this good work. Confessions were made, and the Lord, by his good Spirit, came into our meetings. Truth had its desired effect on the hearts of many who heard it. Five decided to obey the truth; others were almost persuaded to make a start, and we hope they will soon choose to serve the Lord. Four young persons (children of Sabbath-keepers) were added to the church by baptism. May the Lord have a special regard for the youth in those churches where we have labored, is our heart’s desire and prayer to God.
Twelve sermons were preached, mostly practical; two discourses on the perpetuity of spiritual gifts; one on tract and missionary labor; four prayer and social meetings were held. Re-organized T. and M. Society, received eight dollars for membership. Five said they would leave off their tea and coffee, and we hope others will follow their example. We left this church very much encouraged, and hope others will soon be added to their numbers. We remained at Liberty Pole ten days.
Sabbath morning, July 26, commenced a quarterly meeting at Victory church. Here we found some devoted brethren and sisters. The Lord is with them. This meeting commenced with a prayer and social meeting, followed by preaching. In the afternoon, the ordinances were celebrated with good effect. We remained here ten days, holding, in all, fifteen meetings. Preached twice on the perpetuity of spiritual gifts. Fifteen joined the tract and missionary society; received seven dollars for membership. Three were baptized; two were added to the church. One had joined before being baptized.
Our meetings here were very interesting and we believe profitable. At one of our meetings, the Spirit of the Lord rested upon the congregation in a wonderful manner. It was said to be the best meeting ever held in this place. The members of these churches felt very thankful for our timely visit among them. May the Lord bless these churches and add to their numbers such as shall be saved.
P. S. THURSTON,
JOHN ATKINSON.
Waterloo, Wis., Aug. 7, 1873
Minnesota Tent.
By H. F. Phelps; L. H. Ells
We have now been here three weeks. Have given twenty-four discourses. Have canvassed the Sabbath question. We have had a very deep interest from the beginning. Congregations, week-day evenings, have averaged one hundred; on first-days and first-day evenings, from two to three hundred. Last Sunday, or week ago yesterday, we spoke on the claims of the seventh and first days. In the evening, tried to show the work of Christ in magnifying the law, also Antichrist in changing the law. There were about three hundred present. A good feeling was manifest.
One man asked some questions, which seemed to throw some darkness, not manifesting a very good spirit. We afterward learned that he was a Baptist clergyman. We decided to extend him an invitation to occupy the tent to vindicate the claims of the first day, which we did at our next meeting. He has not as yet accepted, but a Disciple minister came forward and proposed to speak in vindication of the first day. Gave him the privilege. He occupied last evening. He seems to be a Christian gentleman. He manifested a good spirit. His positions were those usually taken by this people: that the law was abolished; the principles of the ten commandments were brought over into the new covenant, the first day taking the place of the seventh.
There were over three hundred present. It was a rainy evening. He spoke about two hours, till 10 o’clock. It still rained. We proposed to begin a reply, to which the congregation loudly assented. Sang “Resting By-and-By,” to relieve the people from their sitting. We then spoke nearly an hour with good liberty. As it was raining too hard to be heard longer, and the people being tired, we gave our appointments, and one by one the people went away in the rain. We complete the review to-morrow evening.
Judging from what we hear, the people still think we have the truth. Some six or eight have already taken a stand. Brethren, pray for us.
H. F. PHELPS,
L. H. ELLS.
Hamilton, Fillmore Co., July 28, 1873.
[A previous brief report from this tent was mislaid.
—ED. REV.]
SOW BESIDE ALL WATERS.
By Mary Martin
“In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand; for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether both shall be alike good.” Eccl. 11:6.
DARK is the river that floweth beside me,
Marshy the land that upon its banks lie;
Trembling I hold in my hand the seed given,
What is the use of this sowing? I cry.
Sweetly the voice of the Master commands me,
“The work I appointed do bravely and well;
What the result shall be does not concern thee,
Eternity’s morning this story will tell.
“The dewdrops and bird songs have come with the morning.
What time more befitting for work or for prayer?
Then cast in the seed and make no delaying,
When thou needest my help I shall ever be there.
’Tis evening; the moonlight is crowning the mountain,
And swiftly the river flows down to the sea;
‘Withhold not thine hand,’ but be careful in sowing,
Remember, this work thou art doing for me.
“Beside all waters; thus reads thy commission;
Freely receiving the God-given seed,
Freely bestowing, implore thou a blessing
From Him who has promised grace equal thy need.
The marshes that lie by the murkiest water,
Perchance may yield fruit in the gathering day,
While nothing but leaves may grow on the margin
Where golden sands sleep, and the bright billows play.
“But though Paul should plant and Apollos should water,
’Tis I who the harvest time increase must give;
Thy efforts are fruitless unless I shall bless them,
With the knowledge of this in humility live.
Go often to look in Gethsemane’s garden,
Nor wonder that sorrow should sometimes be thine.
Accept of the cross upon Calvary’s mountain,
The wormwood, the gall, and the crown that were mine”
I accept; I will count not the prayers I must offer,
Or while the seed sowing, the tears I must shed;
I will gladly walk on o’er the thorns in my pathway,
’Neath dark, frowning clouds that are hanging o’erhead.
If at last, when rewards to the faithful are given,
With hearts full of joy, we know as we’re known,
I may clasp my glad hands round a sheaf that has ripened
From the seed that with trembling and fear I have sown.
MARY MARTIN.
New Hampshire.
Meetings in Maine: Richmond, Brunswick, Deering, Woodstock
By J. B. Goodrich
Maine.
June 25, at 7½ P. M., I met with the friends in Richmond village. There were but few out to hear. Some were detained at home by sickness.
The 26th, evening, I met with the church in Brunswick, and the 27th, at 7½ P. M., I commenced a monthly meeting at Deering, holding over Sabbath and first-day. Although the gathering was not as large as usual, yet there seemed to be an interest with some to hear; and they are convinced that we have the truth. May the Lord help them to take their feet from off the Sabbath, call it a delight, and receive the blessing that follows acts of obedience.
Here a tract and missionary meeting was held, and by the reports handed in it was evident that some interest had been manifested in scattering tracts. But some did not report. This is not as it should be. All should report what they have done, and the principle and design of the T. and M. Society should be carried out.
July 4, I commenced meetings at Woodstock, Me., holding over Sabbath and first-day. At first, the interest was low, but as our meetings progressed, the interest increased until the last. Sunday, the seats were very well filled with attentive hearers, and I had good liberty in speaking; and judging by the way tears flowed, the word spoken made a deep impression upon the minds of those who heard.
After the close of the afternoon meeting, we attended to the ordinances, and two united with the church. An urgent request was made for meetings to be held about six miles from here. Oh! that God would raise up faithful laborers, and thrust them into his vineyard. There never was a time in Maine when there were so many calls for help, and so many doors open to hold meetings and preach the third angel’s message, as now; and it is a wonder to me how men who have talent, and the ability to preach this message to the people, can fold their arms and content themselves to stay at home, month after month, and not heed the call of the people, and feed the souls that are starving and dying for want of the bread of life.
There is a day of wrath coming, a time of trouble. Do we believe it? We say, We do; but do our actions show that we believe what we say? Solemn scenes are before us; the Judgment will soon close, and we must give an account of our stewardship. If I cannot do as much as others, by the help of the Lord, I will do what I can.
Sabbath, July 12, I meet with the church at Norridgewock, and the 13th, at the Moore school-house in Canaan.
The 19th and 20th, I attended the monthly meeting at Athens. Although it rained Sabbath forenoon, yet a goodly number came from Norridgewock, Cornville, and Hartland. Sunday was a pleasant day, and the interest to hear was very good.
This church has been almost broken up by removals, and I would here caution our brethren against getting the moving spirit, unless they are sure it is for the glory of God and the advancement of his cause. There are a few in this place who are still holding on firmly to the truth, and are looking for the return of the Messiah, and a home in the kingdom of God, and may the Lord especially bless them, is my prayer.
Sabbath and first-day, the 26th and 27th, I met with the Canaan church. Here some interest was manifested in the tract and missionary work. Ten united with the society. We hear good results from the tract and missionary work. Souls are being led to Christ, and to acknowledge the authority of God’s holy law.
We also hear good news from the Maine mission tent. Brn. Blaisdell and Webber are meeting with good success; souls are being converted and brought into the truth. This cause is onward. There is no failure in this message. God’s hand is in this work, and it will finally bear off the victory. Brethren, pray for us.
J. B. GOODRICH.
South Norridgewock, July 29, 1873.
Hillsdale, Mich.
By A. S. HUTCHINS
By request of Bro. Root, I attended the Tract and Missionary meeting at Hillsdale, last Sabbath and first-day, in his stead. The attendance, though not large, was perhaps as large as could be expected. Brethren and sisters from Hillsdale and Ransom, and other lovely ones, were present. Owing to ill-health, I did not arrive at H. in time to take much part in the forenoon meeting on Sabbath. Was glad to find Bro. Charles Russell there, who had spoken to the church.
In the afternoon, we held a meeting in which I was able to speak some forty minutes on the subject of true conversion to God, and the importance of living in the enjoyment of that religion which will save the soul and incline others to walk in the way of obedience; after which I listened to testimonies from all believers present. Quite a number seemed to feel the need of a more thorough experience in the things of the Lord. We hope none will rest short of it.
On first-day, held two meetings. In the first, I spoke some three-fourths of an hour on the humble position which we as a people should occupy, in view of the clear light which shines upon our pathway on very great and important duties.
In the last, I presented briefly as possible the T. and M. enterprise, for which the meeting was called; after which pledges were made, amounting to $219.00, over one-fourth of which was paid down. In consideration of the number, and circumstances of those present, it would be a mild use of the English language to say, This was doing well.
Let these friends act as nobly in the discharge of all duties in the Christian warfare, and we are confident they will share largely of spiritual blessings.
In conclusion, suffer the word of exhortation, dear brethren: “GROW IN GRACE.”
A. S. HUTCHINS.
Battle Creek, Mich., Aug. 12, 1873.
Tobacco.
By Merritt E. Cornell
BY ELD. M. E. CORNELL.
The man who is addicted to the use of tobacco, and the habit is so confirmed upon him that he finds it difficult to break it off, is deserving of sincere pity. He feels that it injures him—that it is stealing away his life forces, and undermining his constitution, and wishes he was free from it, but he finds it more difficult to get out of the scrape than it was to get into it. He knows that it must be overcome, and has made some feeble efforts to reform, but failed, and now sees that he must make a desperate effort to get rid of the monster. Many are halting, it may be, because they do not yet see and realize sufficiently the enormity of the evil, and what they are hazarding in its continuance. It is not merely health and happiness here in this world that is at stake, but it is eternal life in the world to come. Come and let us reason together. You know the promise is only to the overcomer. Now can you afford to barter away your hope of eternal life for a little worldly indulgence? Will it pay to forfeit the home of endless joy for such false pleasure? Now is the time to duly consider the matter and count the cost. Now is the time to act, and to act as you will wish you had done in the Judgment. It is not safe to wait here on enchanted ground. The time is short, but it is not yet too late to break off, and lay aside every weight, and be free men in Christ.
Is there any sacrifice required too great for us to make cheerfully, to secure such a prize as eternal life? Dare you presume upon the mercy of God, and say, He will not shut me out for this one idol? What is the self-denial required, compared with what Jesus suffered for you? It is only to make a short, earnest effort, and the prize is gained.
Some who use the filthy weed become impatient over the earnest exhortations they have had, and seek to excuse themselves in the practice. “The Bible,” they say, “does not condemn it by name.” True, but neither does it name “whisky.” The inebriate could make the same excuse. But is it necessary that the Bible should name all the evils which it condemns? Is it not enough to describe the character of the ugly creature so that we cannot fail to recognize it? But why seek to excuse that which is so generally admitted to be a great evil? There are too many palpable reasons for abandoning its use at once and forever. I can only give a few of the many in this brief article.
1. Its use is doubtful. The best of men believe it to be sinful. The best physicians say it is very injurious to health.
2. It is a worldly habit, and its use is in favor of the carnal, and against the spiritual.
3. It defiles the whole body, and renders it unfit for a temple for the pure Spirit of God.
4. It is offensive to friends and associates, especially the pure and the good.
5. It is a waste of time and money, and is worse than useless.
6. It is one of the abominable idolatries referred to in the Scriptures. Men become so wedded to it that it becomes dear to them, and fully takes its place as an idol.
7. It cannot be used to the glory of God. The apostle says, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Cor. 10:31.
8. It is impossible to fulfill God’s will while using tobacco, for it is written, “In every thing give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thess. 5:18. How would it sound to thank God for good smoking or chewing tobacco?
9. A man could not pray for tobacco. But we are taught to pray for our daily bread and all the necessaries of life. Who ever heard of a man praying for good tobacco?
10. Those who use tobacco are generally so well satisfied that it is a great evil that they would not on any account give their consent for their children to use it.
11. It is an uncleanly habit. Ladies of refinement involuntarily shrink from a man who uses it.
12. It is a disgusting poison. The victim’s lips are swollen, his gums are spongy and tender, and his entire mouth and throat are affected by it.
13. The habit is unbecoming to a Christian gentleman. It destroys his self-respect, and necessarily lowers him in the estimation of others. “I love my pipe,” said a clergyman, “but I despise myself for using it.”
14. A great waste of money is involved in its use. Official statistics show that more money was expended in 1871 for tobacco than for bread—the staff of life. The amount paid for tobacco in all forms was three hundred and fifty million dollars, while that paid for flour was only two hundred millions! “Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not?” Isa. 55:2.
15. The action of the heart is greatly disturbed by its use, and the man is in constant danger. Many have dropped dead without a moment’s warning, from its effects.
16. It weakens the mind, affects the memory, and produces nervousness and irritability.
17. It is a constant rebellion against conscience. Those who use it generally realize that it is a waste of time and money, strength and life powers. It tramples on the laws of nature, and hence is a sin.
18. It is an injury to society. The example is constantly infecting the youth and spreading the evil.
19. Those who use it are in bondage, voluntary slaves. The fetters that bind them are more cruel than fetters of iron.
O man, will you not resolve to give it up at once and forever? How can you continue to disgrace your manhood with so disgusting and pernicious an evil as tobacco? Oh! be entreated forthwith to issue your emancipation proclamation, and to take up the cry, “Give me liberty, or give me death!” In the name of all that is pure and of good report, assert your liberty. It is in your power to rejoice the hearts of all your friends by renouncing this pernicious habit. In many respects, it is the worst evil that ever disgraced and degraded mankind. May God help you to rule down the evil, be master of yourself, and rise to the noble dignity of God’s free man, hoping for the victor’s crown.
“Thy Kingdom Come.”
By Wm. Covert
WHEN we survey the evidences of the nearness of the second coming of Christ, a thrill of joy runs through our hearts, and our spirits respond, “Even so, come Lord Jesus.” Every full believer in the third angel’s message will rejoice in the prospect that is now looming up before us. Oh! that “sweet by-and-by!”
“My longing heart cries out, O, come,
Creation groans for thee.”
Why should we not glory in the shortness of time? for there is nothing in this world that will pay us for staying away from Jesus, unless it is to honor the government of Heaven by warning poor sinners to flee from the wrath of God that is gathering over this earth of ours.
Brethren and sisters, can we not hasten the time by an earnest, universal pushing forward in this last message of mercy? Do not say that we are not ready for the test, for this is the very means provided by the Lord to help us to get ready. If all should commence in full earnest to work for the salvation of souls, there would then go up to God an unbroken petition, “Thy kingdom come.” The reason that we are not ready is because our hearts are with our treasures of this world; and if these treasures are not transferred as the interest of the cause demands, they will either be taken from us, or else we will be left to perish with them.
I cannot see why any should linger around the things of this world. Solomon tried everything in which the imagination of the wisest man could expect to find enjoyment, and his testimony is that “all is vanity and vexation of spirit.” We have cut loose from the pleasures of this world. And we have no assurance that our dearest earthly friends will be spared to comfort us for a day. Our fondest hopes wither just as they seem to be blooming into fragrance. Then why not work in order to end the long delay? work in the interest of our Master? work in the interest of our own eternal happiness? Oh! I do feel so very glad that this age of sin and misery, of pain, suffering, and sorrow, is so nearly ended. Soon we will stand on Mount Zion. Soon we will see Jesus and the holy angels. Soon we will meet the blood-washed throng. Thanks be to God, they will arise in blooming, youthful, immortal beauty. No pale faces nor fevered brows will be there. All will be perfect as when the morning stars first sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy, and will remain so as long as the ages of eternity roll. Shall we gather there?
Wm. COVERT.
Tipton Co., Ind.
HOME
No marvel that poets have chosen home and the native land, as grateful themes of song. In themselves, the words are full of melody; in their associations, they form exquisite music. It is a blessed thing to have a haven of rest, where love lights its beacon and keeps its vigils to greet the returning wanderer, weary of a cheerless pilgrimage by flood or field. God help those for whom every country wears a foreign aspect—who avert their steps from the dwelling of their fathers, banished by the clouds of discord, or the rank weeds of desolation.