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The Gospel Trumpet
Volume 21, Issue 16, April 18, 1901
(Articles of interest only)
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The Time for Prayer.
When is the time for prayer?
With the first beams that light the morning sky,
Ere for the toils of day thou dost prepare
Lift up thy thought on high;
Commend thy loved ones to His watchful care:
Morn is the time for prayer!
And in the noontide hour,
If worn by toil or by sad care opprest,
Then unto God thy spirit's sorrows pour,
And He will give thee rest;
Thy voice shall reach Him through the fields of air:
Noon is the time for prayer!
When the bright sun hath set,
Whilst yet eve's glowing colors deck the skies:
When with the loved, at home, again thou'st met,
Then let thy prayer arise
For those who in thy joys and sorrows share:
Eve is the time for prayer!
And when the stars come forth,
When to the trusting heart sweet hopes are given,
And the deep stillness of the hour gives birth
To pure, bright dreams of heaven,
Kneel to thy God - ask strength life's ills to bear:
Night is the time for prayer.
When is the time for prayer?
In every hour, while life is spared to thee
In crowds or solitude - in joy or care
Thy thoughts should heavenward flee,
At home - at morn and eve - with loved ones there,
Bend thou the knee in prayer!
- Selected.
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The New Testament Church.
By Alvin J. Ellison.
Article 4.
ORDINANCES OF THIS HOUSE.
"That they keep all my ordinances and do them." The first of these ordinances which belong to God's house we will notice by reading in Matthew 28:18, 19 - "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." In this text we are taught that baptism is an ordinance in the house of God, to be administered by those who are sent to preach the gospel of deliverance to this dark and sinful world. Next we will notice the second ordinance, the Lord's supper. "For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till he comes." Some would vainly teach that these ordinances were all nailed to the cross at the crucifixion of Christ: but this is gross error. While the Old Testament ordinances were nailed to the cross at the death of Christ, the New Testament ordinances yet remain to be strictly observed. "That they keep all my ordinances, and do them." Moreover the apostle Paul sixteen years after the crucifixion, tells us that he received of the Lord this instruction concerning the ordinances which he delivered to the Corinthian church, as given in the preceding quotation. Therefore these ordinances yet remain for our observance.
We will next notice the precious ordinance of feet-washing. “Now before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which are in the world, he loved them unto the end. And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him; Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; he riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now: but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he saith unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me Master and Lord; and ye say well; for so I am. 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 unto you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his Lord neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” - John 13:1-17.
In this scripture the ordinance of feet-washing is clearly taught, and, we may well say, far more forcibly than either baptism or the Lord’s supper. Jesus says, “Ye also ought [should; your bounden duty] to wash one another’s feet;” “Ye should do as I have done to you.” He also gave us the example, that we may know how to perform the same. Many a popular and haughty dodge is taken to avoid the observance of this blessed ordinance; but all in vain. Some say it was an old Jewish custom; but if this were so, Peter, being a Jew, would not have acted so strangely when Jesus went to wash his feet; neither would the Lord have said, “What I do thou knowest not.” Others say it was because their feet were unclean, as they wore sandals. This objection will not amount to anything; for Jesus said, “He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet.” So, you see, they were already cleansed, and Jesus was here washing them for another purpose. In concluding this point we have one more suggestion to make in order that our readers be not turned into error. It is the advice given by inspiration of God through the holy apostle: “Let all things be done decently and in order.” In this ordinance of feet-washing the brethren wash the feet of the brethren, and the sisters the feet of the sisters.
THE LAWS OF THIS HOUSE.
In concluding this lesson on the house of God we will notice a few points concerning the laws thereof. We will not, however, under this topic, enter fully into this thought, as it will be prominent throughout these articles. We will now notice a few major obligations as given for the observance of the house, the New Testament church. “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not.” - 1st John 2:1. “Go, and sin no more.” - John 8:11. “Awake to righteousness, and sin not.” - 1st Corinthians 15:34. In other scriptures we see what the statute-book teaches concerning the committing of sin. Therefore, to escape the punishment set forth in this book, we must live a sinless life, and thus exemplify the character of our pattern as taught in 1st Peter 2:21, 22: follow his steps, “who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth.” God’s laws are not to be lightly esteemed, or their observance avoided. This we find clearly taught in James 1:22 - “But be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” In Proverbs 4:2 God said, “Forsake ye not my law.” Therefore, dear reader, let us observe his law with our whole heart: that we be not deceived; but that we “make our calling and election sure.”
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What Jesus Is to Us.
By G. W. Carey.
The world very often scoffs at the idea of Jesus being a present helper, and giving aid to those in trouble. Many seem to think he was nothing but a man, without divinity blended with humanity; but those who have tested him know by experience that Jesus is a divine reality, and that he truly is the Savior of man. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” - Luke 2:11. Being in a sinful condition, we were not able to save ourselves; hence, as Job expresses it, the need of a “days-man” between man and God.
HE IS OUR RECONCILER.
“And having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; . . . And you, that were some time alienated, and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled.” - Colossians 1:20, 21. Man was the offender and God the offended; thus the need of some one to bring about a reconciliation between the offender and the offended. This work our Savior accomplished in the body of his flesh, that he might present us “holy and un-blamable and un-reproveable in his sight.” - Colossians 1:22.
HE IS OUR ONLY HOPE.
Paul made this quite impressive in the beginning of his first letter to Timothy in which he ascribes to Jesus the title of “God our Savior, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope.” Peter taught the same thing before the rulers, elders, and scribes of Jerusalem. After declaring Jesus to be the stone which the builders rejected (Psalms 118:22), he says: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12.
HE IS OUR HELPER.
“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” - Hebrews 13:5, 6. Our strength is not sufficient to cope with the enemy of souls. The temptations and difficulties that come from him are too great for us to overcome without help, and there is not a friend like the lowly Jesus who can give us assistance and deliverance in every time of need.
IN HIM WE HAVE REDEMPTION.
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” - Ephesians 1:7. “In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” - Colossians 1:14. Money could not have purchased our salvation. It was impossible to secure our freedom from the bondage of sin except through Jesus the blessed Son of God.
HE IS OUR SANCTIFIER.
“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the Word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise.” - Ephesians 1:3. “Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.” - Hebrews 13:12.
HE IS OUR HEALER.
“And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.” - Luke 9:11. Jesus had power to heal in those days; and he has the same power in the latter days.
HE IS OUR FOUNDATION.
“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” - 1st Corinthians 3:11. If we build upon Christ, we are safe; all other ground is sinking sand. “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone.” - Ephesians 2:20. The apostles and holy men made choice of a foundation against which the gates of hell can not prevail. This is the rock upon which the church was to be built. Beloved, are you a member of this church? If so, you are on the “sure foundation” that will stand through all eternity. See to it that you are in Christ. If you are saved at all, it will be through him. Your rejection of him means your loss of heaven.
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“Better is the poor that walketh in his integrity, than he that is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.” - Proverbs 19:1
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“A false witness shall not be unpunished; and he that speaketh lies shall perish.” - Proverbs 19:9.
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The Lord is Great to His Children.
By J. M. Harrington.
We know of no reason why the saints of the Lord should not be fat and flourishing in the courts of our God when we consider the many promises to mankind. First - He says he will be a “Sun.” Thank God for the Sun that illuminates the hearts of the children of God! What the sun is to a literal world, the spiritual sun is to a spiritual world. The literal sun gives heat, disperses darkness and gloom, and makes everything seem more cheerful. We understand how much brighter the world seems on a bright day than on one that is gloomy. Just so to the man in Christ. The Lord is the sun; he warms his heart and affections, drives away darkness and gloom, and makes him happy day by day. Praise God for the Sun! Second - He is a shield. He does not ask us to live for him in our own strength, but he says, “I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Again he says, he “will make a way to escape.” Again, “Without me ye can do nothing.” Third - “He will give grace and glory” amidst every trial of life. Though they may be many, Christ will give us grace to overcome each one. 1st Corinthians 10:13. These are privileges people did not enjoy under the law before Christ came into the world to redeem mankind. Hence, “grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” - John 1:17.
Many do not believe a man can live a sinless life; they say it is not man’s nature to do right. We admit this is true with the natural man; but it is not so with the man in Christ, since he has divine help which is unknown to the natural man. So, brethren, be of good cheer, trust God, and he will carry you through. Fourth - Our text declares: “No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” Here is the secret of living a Christian life. While God is all-powerful, and is able to do wonderful things for the children of men, yet if we do not do our duty, we will never prosper in divine things. Great reproach has been brought upon Christ’s cause by people who do not “walk uprightly.” The world looks upon those who profess and backslide, and get saved over and over, and says “There is not much in salvation.” They forget that salvation is received and retained upon conditions. God will save every one that meets the conditions, and they will continue to be saved as long as they walk uprightly. If we feel lean in our soul, it would be well for us to search our heart and consecration; for there is something wrong. If God’s Word be true, we must be fat and flourishing in the courts of our God - that is the condition of those living up to the line of duty. If you are lean, it is because you are not doing what the Lord says. Some might say they did not get saved by doing good works. We admit salvation is not received by doing some good works; but good works accompany the life of those that live for Christ. Read Hebrews 13:16. The Scripture declares that by our good works we will glorify God. Matthew 5:16. It is not by prayer and singing alone, but we can lend a helping hand in sickness or spend some of our means in God’s service. If you knew how some of your means would encourage the minister who has been so faithfully proclaiming the truth, doubtless you would not withhold the Lord’s money from his servants. Beloved, if you want to prosper in your souls, do your duty, walk uprightly, and he will not withhold any good thing from you.
Our leanness, downfalls, etc., are all caused by not doing our duty. Praise God for the Sun and shield, and for the privilege of enjoying all the good things! Brethren, do you enjoy them? If not, seek for them. If so, it be true, and a blest eternity will be your reward.
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PRIDE.
By Edgar Fleenor.
First - The seat of this evil. “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murder, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, and evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness.” - Mark 7:21, 22. This is an evil that is cursing our land, and men are being deceived by it. Mark you the prophet’s language regarding Edom: “Thy terribleness hath deceived thee, and the pride of thine heart. . . Though thou shouldest make thy nest as high as the eagle, I will bring thee down from thence, saith the Lord.” Thus we see it is pride in the hearts of men that causes them to over-reach and become exalted. It is pride of nations and countries that causes them to rise up against each other, yea, and crush each other. Not only nations, but men who try to undermine their fellow men in secular life. Yea, many times even professors of religion take advantage of their fellow men. Pride surely causes men to want the ascendancy. So, “Though thou shouldest build thy nest as high as the eagle, I will bring thee down from thence, saith the Lord.” - Jeremiah 49:16. You may try in many ways to make yourself of good reputation, and noticeable to men, yet with all this try to appear humble. Humility is involuntary, and a mere form, or outward show, is only the outcroppings of pride.
Again, pride causes contention. “Only by pride cometh contention.” - Proverbs 13:10. Some people look at their dress to tell if they are proud; but if you are contentious, you are proud. Why do you contend if you are not proud? Take away the cause, and the effect will disappear. If you are contentious at home, or if you contend in meeting over something you do not understand, pride is the cause of it. “Contend earnestly for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints,” but notice the contention which come from pride: “As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.” - Proverbs 26:21. Lord, help us to see the difference. If we are in the right, we will not manifest the awful spirit of strife, but we will be willing to suffer wrong and wait upon the Lord.
Results of pride. “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” - Proverbs 16:18. Example: Nebuchadnezzer, king of Babylon, got lifted up in his pride. God dethroned him, and he was brought low. His glory was taken from him, and he was bought down to a level with the beast of the field. Many to-day are being brought low by pride. Men mortgage their farms, houses, and horses, to keep up with the times. There are young men to-day who, to all appearances, are worth their hundreds, drive the finest rigs, and dress in the latest styles; but the time comes that reveals the secret, and the mortgage is foreclosed. You know this is true. But how sad it is to see professors of religion who claim to be lovers of Christ and his Word and representatives of his cause, who follow the fashions of the world. “Love not the world, . . . If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For the lust of the flesh, . . . And the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” - 1st John 2:15, 16.
Mark you, pride goeth before destruction. The early Reformers were humble; but those who followed them be came proud; for example, I have before me the M. E. discipline of 1884. On page 47 we find:
Let all our people be exhorted to conform to the spirit of the apostolic precept not to “adorn themselves with gold, or pearls, or costly array.” - 1st Thessalonians 2:9. Also we find in 1st Peter 3:3 - “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel.”
Pride goeth before destruction. Where are the M. E.’s to-day? Yea, not only the M. E.’s, but every other sect upon the face of the earth. Nothing but pride ever caused men to form a sect. If you go into their congregations, what do you see? Behold, the minister in open disobedience to their discipline and God’s Word, is wearing gold. Truly John the revelator rightly said: “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen.” You talk to them about these things and they will tell you it is no harm. Peter says, “Let is not be.” They are those of whom Jesus said: “And why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?” Professor, do you love the Lord; if so, why is it your life does not show it? Jesus says, “If a man love me, he will keep my commandments.” When you do those things forbidden in his Word you make yourself a transgressor. Some say these things do not make them proud. I agree with you. It only shows you are proud, and these things are only the outcroppings of what is in your heart.
To the redeemed of the Lord: Are you clear of all these things? Do you dress just as plain as when first saved? Do you like your hat or clothing to be such as the world will not find fault with? Do you have a suit you wear when the saints are around which, when worldly friends come in and you associate with them, you lay aside? Do you primp and fix your children? If you do, you are proud; and besides, you are only cultivating the same in the child. Brethren, let us conform to the apostolic precept, and sound a warning against everything unlike Christ our Savior.
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Use Wisdom.
By W. A. Davison.
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes.” - Proverbs 3:5-7. “Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not, neither decline from the words of my mouth . . . Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” - Proverbs 4:5-7. If there ever was a time when these texts needed to be heeded and obeyed by all God’s children, it is surely now. A lack on these lines is greatly hindering this gospel of the kingdom from reaching the hearts of the people. I have of late been stirred in my soul on this line and I feel like pointing out a few places where improvement is needed.
IN PREACHING THE WORD.
“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” - 1st Peter 4:11. “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” - 1st Corinthians 2:4, 5. I pray God that he may sink these eternal truths deep into the heart of every one that reads them; for I am sure that on this line there is plenty of room for improvement. Furthermore, there are those once used of God who to-day have either drifted into false doctrine, or are of little use in this great reformation.
I will mention a few points where true wisdom is lacking, and where human wisdom is substituted. Firstly, in rightly dividing the Word, misapplying scriptures, using a volume of scriptures disconnected, mixing up a half dozen subjects in one, thus leaving no definite understanding of any one subject with the hearers. Second, wisdom in altar work. Of all places where human beings are used as agents of God to direct souls into the right way, at the altar is where God-given wisdom is needed most. We may preach the Word with holy wisdom and sinners may become convicted and come to the altar; but just a little lack of wisdom in some one may then put them on the wrong route. This is done in various ways, a few of which I will mention. Two or three persons will talk to the same party at the same time, and thus confuse the mind and hinder the Word of God from getting hold upon the heart. Again, individuals working at the altar will get their arms on the shoulders of the penitent, and continue to talk to him for some time, and in the meanwhile let their weight rest upon his shoulders, until he is completely wearied, and has to shift his position to get rest. Instruction under such circumstances is worse than useless. Many a poor soul doubtless has been dragged into a profession of salvation when really one of the chief objects in saying he was satisfied was to get rid of those working with him.
Another great lack of wisdom is in having persons consecrate for something they do not feel the need of. I hold that no one can get salvation until he is made sick of sin to the extent that real sorrow gets hold of the heart. See 2nd Corinthians 7:10. At this point is where heavenly wisdom is needed. I am personally acquainted with parties that are well-nigh sneering skeptics to-day. The cause lies right at this point: they, having been instructed in consecration several times by parties not knowing how to deal with souls, were merely dragged into a profession through mental effort alone. They afterwards made failure after failure, and finally gave up trying. To-day they can sit under the Word preached with the power of the Holy Spirit and not be affected in the least. I charge this, or at least a large per cent of it, to a lack of wisdom.
Again, persons will come to the altar to be sanctified when upon examination they are found to be destitute of justification. Such persons, falling into the hands of workers not understanding the case and not having heavenly wisdom to examine the sacrifice, are urged to accept by faith whatever they desire. Thus they are sent out into the world as examples of Bible holiness. It is impossible for them to live salvation when they have only a profession of it. Such persons are more or less ready to take up with everything labeled holiness. In process of time some of them become skeptical, others of them get a call from the devil to preach, and destruction follows. The original cause in many such cases is with the one that lacked wisdom. So much of this kind of work has fallen under my notice that I am heart-sick of it, and shall never hold my tongue on this line. My prayer and heart’s desire is that God may stir the hearts of all those that have a call to the work in his vineyard to deeper depths of qualification which he alone can give. Entirely too much stress has been laid upon natural capacity in some instances. I saw a few such cases side-tracked. May the mighty power of God continue to sweep through this reformation until everything not in perfect harmony with his will shall be brought through the refining fire. The hotter the fire, the sooner the dross is consumed. See James 3:17. Please notice that the product of this heavenly wisdom is good fruit. The Lord grant that the weight of his Word may fall upon all hearts where it is needed.
I can not close this warning without sounding the alarm to the entire body of Christ. In the past, entirely too much importance has been placed upon natural ability. This is noticed by certain individuals being pushed into more prominence than they are able to stand - too high an estimation of self follows. Next come the awful result that we have had to meet in the last two years; but, thank God! The church at large is getting its eyes opened on this line. The whole tenor of the New Testament is a warning against laying stress upon human ability. I am aware that God does not want idiots to preach; neither are many called who are wise with the wisdom of this world. - 1st Corinthians 1:26.
In conclusion, be it known to all the holy remnant that this reformation will never reach its zenith until the entire Word of God is obeyed in every part. See Isaiah 58:6-12. In individual cases this is being literally fulfilled; but the Lord wants it to become universal. Dear brethren, let Colossians 3:3 be your experience. Be content with whom the Lord sends to your community as a minister. Do not make your own choice. Live in peace, and the very God of peace shall be with you. - 2nd Corinthians 15:11.
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Questions to Parents.
By J. L. Green.
Dear parents who are readers of the Trumpet, whether you are saved or not, I desire to ask you a few questions regarding your children. First, I would ask, Do you love your precious children? No doubt you say, Yes. But, do you act like it? Are you doing all you can to shelter them from the atrocious sins that are prevalent in the world to-day? Do you realize that solitary sins are ruining thousands, robbing them of man-hood and womanhood, and planting the seeds of disease in their bodies, such as catarrh, heart-disease, female weakness, consumption, etc.? Do you realize that many boys and girls are unconsciously digging their own graves, which they will be filling before reaching the prime of life, while many others are dragging out a miserable existence and cursing their posterity with physical ailments and mental weakness? Are you aware that all these evils and sorrows have come upon such for lack of timely warning from their parents while they were yet innocent children? Do you love your boys and girls enough to explain the evils of such, and impress upon their young minds the benefits of virtue, and the fatal results of youthful lusts? Are you doing your duty on this line; or do you let fear and false modesty shut your mouth and keep you silent? Do you think that because your child is a bright, beautiful, innocent boy or girl, that it can not be overtaken?
Dear parents, be wise! Do not wait until sin has entered and vice has robbed your darling child of those graceful adornments. It may then be forever too late. Do you value your children more than a few dollars? You say, Yes. Do you prove it by spending a few dollars for good books for them to read? Do you know that a few books such as “Mother’ Counsel to Their Sons,” “Letters of Love and Counsel for ‘Our Girls,’” “Boy’s Companion,” etc., are worth more to the young than all gold and silver? If you fail to do your duty, and your children are ruined and lost, who will be to blame? Not long since a sister while reading “Letters of Love” was melted to tears, and sweepingly exclaimed: “Oh, that mother had taught me this while I was a child!”
Dear reader, if you are a parent and have failed on this line, awake from your slumber, and shake yourself from the dust, and ransom your children from moral ruin and destruction.
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God’s Message in This Reformation.
By George L. Cole.
The wisdom of God is too infinite, and his work too magnificent, to give prominence to every phase of it in one message; but God has given his message from time to time according as the conditions and circumstances required, giving prominence usually to one phase, which might be regarded as the burden of the message. I wish to call attention to some scriptural examples. When God’s people were bondsmen in Egypt, Moses was sent as a deliverer. He appealed to Pharaoh, and the burden of the message was: “Let my people go;” yet the ultimate object was to get God’s people located in the land of their inheritance in fulfillment of his promise to Abraham. Again, when Israel had fulfilled her long period of punishment in the Babylonian captivity, the burden of God’s message was: “Return ye, return ye.” The object was to fulfill God’s promise and “rebuild the old, waste places” and “restore the breaches of former generations,” and wait the coming of their Lord. Afterward John the Baptist was sent and “The baptism of repentance” was the burden of God’s message, and the ultimate object was to make ready a people prepared for the Lord in fulfillment of prophecy. (Historic) - After the long night of the apostasy in the reformation of the sixteenth century, “Justification by faith” was the burden of God’s message. And later, in the days of the Wesleys, “Spreading universal holiness” was the burden of God’s message. We now come to this present reformation of gospel light in the evening time, the reformation of the nineteenth century, more frequently spoken of as the “Evening Light Reformation.” Those who have been acquainted with this reform from its outburst in 1880 well know that the burden of God’s message is the proclamation of the angel’s voice in Revelation 18:2, followed by another voice from heaven, verse 7, viz., “Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication [compromise], and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people; that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” Hence, “announcing the fall of Babylon, and calling God’s people out of her,” is the burden of God’s message in this reformation, while the ultimate object is to reveal the one body, the church of God; and conjointly with the experience of sanctification perfect the unity and oneness of all the host of called-out ones. Therefore the burden of God’s message in this reformation remains unchanged while Babylon remains in her fallen condition described in this message, and any of God’s people remain to be called out of her.
Beloved, will you not agree that Great Babylon as a whole, is in a worse condition now than she was twenty years ago? If in the light of that angel, when “the earth was lightened with his glory,” twenty years ago, the fallen condition of Babylon was revealed by the words of his “strong voice” (Revelation 18:2-4), - I wish to emphasize - if it were true then, it is doubly true now, since Babylon has so vehemently resisted this message; and tried by her power and cunning to hold God’s people in her. This need no further argument. Therefore the question is, Are any of God’s people yet remaining in Babylon? I frankly confess I believe there are, to which in my opinion there is not one dissenting voice in all Christendom. This being true, the burden of God’s message in this reformation remains the same, and a cessation of this is nothing less than compromise. What if Moses had lost sight of “Let my people go” before all had come out of Egypt? Or if Daniel, Nehemiah, and Ezra had lost sight of “Return ye, return ye,” before the captivity were all aroused to obedience? And if we lose sight of “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, . . . Come out of her, my people” before God’s people all get out of Babylon, we have deviated from the will of God. If a “strong voice cried mightily” when ushering in this proclamation, it will take a strong voice crying mightily to keep it sounding till God’s people are all out of Babylon. But I wish to drop a hint to all. If this voice ceases too soon, there is liable to be a return to Babylon instead of saints coming out of her.
CONFESSION NEEDED.
I frankly confess I have not kept up my zeal in thundering forth God’s judgments against Babylon, and the call “Come out of her, my people.” God knows I am not excusing myself if I suggest that my case is not an exceptional one among the preachers of this reformation. I am indeed sorry for this, and I for one believe that the spirit of Babylon compromise which is now troubling the body came in through this channel. I have heard many preachers in the past five years refer to the shouts of the redeemed dating back to our camp-meetings of ten and fifteen years ago, and one preacher suggested that “there were a few shouting preachers then, and ‘like preachers, like people,’ etc.” But saints of God, and “ye ministers of his,” I want to give you a Bible reason for the shouts of fifteen years ago. The burden of the Lord’s message then was the announcement of the fall of Babylon, and the call of God’s people to come out of her. Thus “God judged the great whore.” “And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Allelujah; Salvation, and glory, and honor and power, unto the Lord our God: for true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of her servants at her hand. And again they said, Allelujah.” Read Revelation 19:1-10. It was not just the shouting preachers that did all this; the preachers pronounced God’s message, and fearlessly stood with an uncompromising spirit, and God rewarded their labor, and called out his people in holiness and unity, bringing them from the tyranny of Babylon into the free and glorious “reign of the Lord God Omnipotent.” Hence the preachers shouted and the people also shouted. This is Bible, and if once more the ministers are made “a flame of fire” on this line, they will shout, and the saints will shout too; and the spirit of compromise will be consumed just like God’s fire licked up the water from Elijah’s sacrifice. Amen!
My testimony is in keeping with the above since God has been powerfully stirring my soul on this line and against all compromise. I feel the coming of leaping and shouting more than I have for years, and my soul says let them come. “Praise ye the Lord.” Again I wish to enforce this thought; I.e., the express fall of Babylon and the call of God’s people out of her. We know the devil has tried to keep pace with God in this thing, and has apparently put the same message in the mouth of every crooked and fanatical fellow he could start out, only to disgust and scare the people of God in Babylon so they will not recognize the leadings of God as he moves with power in this evening light. Professed holiness movements, associations, and factions of all kinds, and Dowie with the rest, are assuming to expose fallen Babylon and call God’s people out; but we know God has never commissioned them to herald this message. God is not calling his people from one sect to another, or from the old sects to those of modern date; from Methodist to Free Methodist, from Campbellite to Christian Union, nor from Presbyterian to Christian Alliance, or Roman Catholic to Christian Catholic. God’s message is to call his people out of every sect, alliance, association, Booth’s Army, etc., into one body, the church of God exclusive. God raised up a “flying ministry” running hither and thither to do this work. Have we overlooked this, and one gone to his farm, and another to his merchandise - into homes, schools, and missions, charitable institutions, pastorates, nursing the sick, and burying the dead? God bless the preachers of this reformation and give them a sleepless night like King Ahasuerus, and let them read the records and see what was their commission ten, fifteen, and twenty years ago, and see who changed their commission, and the burden of God’s message. Has the war ended? Are we at peace with the works of darkness? Are the nations (sects) no longer afraid? I pray God to apply this message to our hearts and call a few things to our minds. God help us to review our consecration and see if Babylon dust has been settling upon our once spotless robes of holiness so free from compromise. Amen.
AN APOLOGY.
While I have presented facts, I have not done this to blame and censure the ministry for the existing conditions of affairs. I hold that my brethren in the ministry have ever purposed to do the right thing. With good intentions and to the best of our knowledge and ability we have all endeavored to guard against all encroachments and invasions of Satan; but while turning our attention to put down certain evils, we let loose of some of the vital issues. I well remember certain men who were intellectual but not spiritual, and became posted in all the deceptions and abominations of Babylon. They sent forth the scriptures that exposed Babylon in her iniquity, not by the Spirit of God but in a carnal way, thrashed and ridiculed Babylon, and chased the children of God into sectism, turning them away instead of getting them into the light. This became an evil - a dreaded evil - and to counteract the labors of such men became an awful task. It seemed the devil was determined to flood this work with such men, as that alone was quite a mouth stopper for the true ministers as they followed in their awful wake of devastation. I for one followed after a carnal, thrashing, preacher, J. P. Haner, for some years in the west: and where he had gone, to simply use the term “Babylon” was offensive. So instead of heralding God’s wonderful message, I had to counteract the harshness, drivings and clubbing of that man. Many others of the ministers met with similar drawbacks; yet we were to blame thus far by deferring judgment until in some cases such men reached criminality. They should have been silenced months, and in some cases years, before they were; but as I said before in turning our attention to the putting down of this evil, we left off in some measure some of the vital issues, and developments that stoutly confront us declare it is high time we renew; that Satan no longer steal away the most powerful weapons of success, placed in our hands by the Holy Ghost for the destruction of sectism and the building up of God’s cause.
This thought should be enforced at this juncture: None but God’s called and qualified messengers, filled with the Holy Ghost and authority, have any commission to thunder forth God’s message against Babylon; and none who are in compromise with Babylon can call God’s people out of her. But it is no marvel if the devil will try and send out some messengers of his to help us fight this battle against compromise; but in Jesus’ name they have no part in this matter. Jesus would not allow devils to testify for him; nor will we let those fight with us against compromise who are impure in heart or life. Amen.
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Questions Answered.
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Are the Trumpet Office and the Old People’s Home owned by one individual, or by the church?
The Gospel Trumpet Publishing Company is the common property of the church of God, owned and controlled by the church, and so arranged that no one can appropriate any part of the property as his own, and in case of death of one or more of the managers, the property does not go into the hands of heirs, but continues to be the property of the church, and the work continues as before.
The Old People’s Home at South Haven, Michigan is not owned or controlled by the church; but the property is owned by one individual, and in case of his death will pass into the hands of his heirs.
[Editor]
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Please explain Galatians 2:18, which reads: “For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.”
V. S. Berlin, Ontario.
If the verses preceding be read, it will be seen that the apostle Paul is reproving Peter for his compromise in the matter of withdrawing from the Gentiles for fear of the Jews. The Jews, of course, were lawists, and Paul’s teaching in verse 18 is that to build again the things he once destroyed, that is righteousness by the law, would be making himself a transgressor; for by the law he could reach no higher experience than that of a sinner. See Romans, seventh chapter.
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Please give your views as to whether or not Judas partook of the Lord’s supper at its institution.
C. M. R., Sparta, Louisiana.
By a careful comparison of Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, and John 13, we are led to the conclusion that Judas was not present at the institution of the Lord’s supper, and this is also the way it is quite generally held. According to John 13, Judas was present at the washing of feet, and according to the same chapter, when he was exposed he went immediately out. According to both Matthew and Mark the eating of the Passover feast was continued after the exposing of Judas, and then, as they were eating, Jesus took bread, etc., and instituted the Lord’s supper, or communion supper, Judas, of course, having gone out. The only difficulty we meet with is in Luke’s narration, in verses 19 and 20, where he brings in the Lord’s supper before he relates the conversation concerning the exposing of Judas. It is a feature of Luke’s style to relate many things in short, brief portions and then go back and mention something that happened previously. These portions that are apparently detached have to be transposed in order to make the sense clear. In verses 21-23, chapter 22, he relates what happened before that which he relates in verses 19 and 20. The 20th verse confirms this, since it shows that the communion cup (Lord’s supper) was given “after supper” (Passover supper), while verses 21-23 give the conversation about the traitor during the Passover supper. After properly transposing Luke’s detached portions and taking the four gospels together, we have the following order: 1st, they were seated together at the Passover meal; 2nd, feet-washing instituted; 3rd, the Passover meal resumed; 4th, Judas pointed out as traitor; 5th, Judas went out; 6th, Lord’s supper instituted; 7th, they sung a hymn and went out.
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Do you know anything about a paper named Zion’s Watch Tower, of Allegheny, Pennsylvania? The editor is Russell. Please explain through the Trumpet.
M. S. K., Coral, Michigan.
Yes, we are acquainted with this paper, and know it to be one of Satan’s foremost instruments to deceive. Its chief doctrine is that there will be an age following this gospel dispensation, during which people will have another chance to be saved and gain eternal life. It is one of the boldest Antichrist doctrines and is a rank enemy of this reformation in which God is separating his people from all false religions preparatory to the final judgment. Zion’s Watch Tower also teaches against everlasting punishment of the wicked. We here quote from Volume 21, Numbers 6 and 7.
“Let us now proceed to examine what is the true Gospel, presented to us in the Word of God - the Gospel of which the Apostle was not ashamed.
“The word ‘gospel’ itself should be the clue - should save the intelligent Christian from being misled by the various theories of bad tidings of great misery for all people, miscalled ‘gospel.’ He who thinks it good news that one out of a thousand of the human family is to be saved and the remaining 999 to be eternally tormented, is either not a Christian at all, or he is decidedly undeveloped in Christian character, in mercy, in love, in justice. In our opinion he is at most only a ‘babe in Christ’ who has need of the milk of the Word and subsequently of the ‘strong meat’ thereof, that he may grow up into Christ in all things, and be able to comprehend with all saints the lengths and breadths and heights and depths of the love of God which passeth all understanding. - Ephesians 3:18, 19.
“When occasionally we come across some one who gives evidence of being a Christian, and who still entertains such horribly blasphemous views respecting the Heavenly Father’s character, we feel like quoting to him the Lord’s words through the Prophet, ‘My ways are not as your ways, nor my thoughts as your thoughts; for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’ (Isaiah 55:8, 9.) And part of our object in this discourse, dear friends, is to have those, whose eyes are anointed of the Lord, that they may see spiritual things, discern some of the Lord’s higher ways and higher plans which he presents to us in his Word under the name ‘gospel’ - good tidings.”
This will be sufficient to show what stripe this paper is of. They are sending out their literature broadcast over the world. Their “Millennial Dawn” has been sent everywhere and translated into many languages. This is an age in which deception runs high. Beware of these doctrines of devils.
A. L. B.
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From The Editor.
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Akron, Indiana, April 4.
Dear Brethren: The last report was from Muscatine, Iowa, which place I left for Topeka, stopping on the way at Beaver Crossing, Nebraska and remaining a day or two with a brother and sister at that place. The first evening at family worship a young lady gave her heart to God. The next day we visited a man who had been down with rheumatism for some time. After complying with James 5:14, 15 he was able to arise and walk, giving God praise and glory. Some time before this he had received much help in answer to prayer. He then sent for a magnetic healer, who gave a treatment and the rheumatism soon returned with increased power, and he could not get help from the Lord until he renounced and rejected this. Another man declared his freedom from sectism.
Arriving at Topeka we had some precious meetings with the church at that place. Among the number of afflicted persons visited was a lady who was possessed of a devil and had been severely afflicted with rheumatism for a year or more. A few words concerning her case may be of interest to others. About two years ago she entered a spiritualistic circle and would spend her evenings with the planchette, asking the spirits questions and having the answers written by the spirits. Soon after this a spirit, or devil, would come to her pillow every night and whisper or talk to her. He told her he was the Lord, but annoyed her very much. She still continued tampering with spiritualism, and soon the spirit entered her and began to tell her many things that were falsehoods. He then told her that he was the devil. She has since been able to converse with him at any time, and has been almost continually tormented and sorely afflicted. This spirit has led her into many sins, some of which she was not willing to give up and forsake, and for this reason could not obtain deliverance.
We also visited Mr. “Schrader,” who goes about with long hair trying to look like Christ, and claiming to be a wonderful healer. He is another of the devil’s agents, and claims to make no charge for healing; but we found him to be only after filthy lucre. Among the first questions his secretary asks a visitor is: “What offering have you for him?” Before leaving a man came who had a crippled daughter. This wonderful healer offered to pray for the girl a month for $15.00, or go to the buggy for $5.00. Another man who was suffering with rheumatism and heart-disease offered to pay liberally when the healing was done; but the man was sent away suffering without an effort being made to relieve him. His motto undoubtedly is: “Money in advance.”
[Editor]
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A Warning to the People of This Reformation.
By Emil Kreutz.
“And at what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it; if it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.” - Jeremiah 18:9, 10. God is not under obligation to any people only as they come within the bounds of his Word and meet his requirements. The Jews were God’s chosen people from the beginning. To them were given the oracles of God and the covenants of promise; and they were his peculiar people. But when they rebelled and disbelieved God, they were cut off and ceased to be his people. See Matthew 21:43. The apostle Paul gives warning to the Gentiles: “Take heed lest he also spare not thee.” - Romans 11:21. The Jews were cut off because of unbelief. The Gentiles rejected the Holy Ghost, as the Jews did Jesus. We see by the text first quoted that after God has promised to do a people good, if they should do evil and obey not his voice, God will not do what he promised them. We see in the 28th chapter of Deuteronomy that the blessings God promised ancient Israel would be turned into curses if they harkened not unto his voice. David tells us in the 85th Psalm: “I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak, unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.” Peter says: “For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.” - 2nd Peter 2:20, 21. “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, and have tasted the good Word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: but that which beareth thorns and briars is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.” - Hebrews 6:4-8. Jesus tells us to “Walk in the light while ye have the light.” - John 12:35, 36. He also gives us warning: “If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” - Matthew 6:23.
I have wondered at the meaning of this last quotation, but the Lord made it plain to me not long ago while preaching. After we have been in a light room in the night, and then go out into darkness, we can not see at all. We could have seen much better if we had not been in the light. It is so in the spiritual life. After having been illuminated with the Holy Spirit in the gospel, to turn from the same would be to place us in a worse condition than if we had never known the will of God. “But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward his name. . . And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope, unto the end: that ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” - Hebrews 6:9-12. But, “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall,” and “be not high minded, but fear.”
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Many dear children of God, after entering the land of spiritual Canaan, are still troubled in the control of their thoughts. The Word says, “Commit thy way unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established,” but there are some things we can do on this line that are helpful. Very much depends upon us controlling our thoughts. In the world the men who accomplish great things are, as a rule, those who have disciplined their minds so that they are able to direct their forces on any desired line. An undisciplined mind wastes its energy in allowing its thoughts to run hither and thither, and thus can accomplish no really great undertaking. But those who are able to concentrate their thoughts may accomplish wonders. Peter says, “Gird up the loins of your mind.” - 1st Peter 1:13. By this he meant for us to make an effort to keep control of our mind, to draw back the wandering thoughts and bring them into subjection. God will do his part when we submit ourselves to him, but we may gain many precious benefits by making an effort to direct our thoughts into profitable channels. A season of quiet waiting on the Lord in the morning and at other convenient periods of the day will go far toward the desired end. It is our privilege to keep our mind stayed on the Lord continually, where we can trust all things away with him and enjoy perfect peace. “Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind.”
R.
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News from the Field.
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Cameron, Indian, Territory.
We are glad to report that we are still saved and sanctified, and members of the holy institution built by Christ, called the church. We are in this little town in the Choctaw Nation working for the Lord, doing what we can to open up the gospel work here. The Lord is wonderfully supplying our needs, for which we give him all the praise. Please pray for us and the work here.
W. B. and L. J. Seaton.
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Castine, Ohio, April 9.
Since I last reported I have been earnestly engaged in the work of God, doing what I can for the salvation of my fellow men. Our meeting at Grand Rapids, Michigan lasted about two weeks and resulted in the salvation of four precious souls. Brother John Merica was with us in this meeting, whom God used to his glory; also we had the pleasure of meeting Brother A. B. Palmer as he passed through the city. From there we went home, only to remain a few days till we again bade our loved ones good-by and came to this place, where we are now engaged in a precious little meeting. I desire a brother to travel with me in the gospel work; one who has had experience in singing and preaching. Address me at St. Louis Michigan.
William E. Warren.
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302 Garland Ave.,
Hot Springs, Arkansas,
April 2.
I am at present laboring with my hands for the needs of my family, and holding forth the Word of life on Sunday. The Lord is witnessing to the truth, and some are getting interested. I am looking to the Lord for a good work to be accomplished here, even before this year shall close. There will be, as soon as the weather is pleasant, a good opening for tabernacle work here, and I am still asking the Lord to provide one to be used here and anywhere he may direct. I ask the united prayers of all who are in harmony with the Great Giver. Although Satan has been busily trying to dishearten me in the work here with the hand of affliction in my family, and by many other apparent blockades, yet my faith is strong in God, who I am sure has led me here. So I mean to push the battle to the gates, and especially in this town. May the Lord grant a good harvest of souls this year.
James M. Johnson.
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Whitehead, Oklahoma.
We are still praising the Lord for victory in our souls over the flesh, the world, and the devil. Our meeting at Shafter was of short duration. The people seem more interested in things that are perishing than in things that are eternal and everlasting. There were only a few that would come to hear the Word of God. At the second night of the meeting a bigoted, sectarian prelate made his appearance, announcing that the time we proposed to use was his by previous announcement. He seemed to be very indignant because we were preaching a sinless life through the blood of Christ. From there we went to Brothers Lees’ neighborhood near Jennings, where we held meeting two weeks. A few souls stepped into the cleansing stream and were made whole. Some would not measure to the Word and consequently remained in darkness.
The next meeting we held was south of Cushing, where the Word was preached for about twelve days. Much prejudice against the saints was removed. One backslider was led to seek for a reconciliation. A brother who was afflicted in his body and struggling with unbelief, was benefited. In former years there was a large body of saints here as well as at Jennings; but it is a sad fact to note that the devil succeeded in scattering the flock until there are only a few who are standing true to God.
Feeling the need of a little rest after seven months of continuous labor in meetings, we went to Whitehead. Here we found a few saints standing for the Lord, keeping themselves unspotted from the world. We were rejoiced to see one brother who had got away from the Lord make his return to the Savior. A lot was given to the saints in Whitehead on which to build a meeting-house. The lot is finely located, and the brethren were not slow to accept the gift. This we will explain more fully in another writing. We held meeting with the saints in a dug-out. The Lord was present to own and bless the Word that went forth. “How pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” The saints here desire a camp-meeting soon after the Neosho meeting in August.
Coming to Pond Creek we found some saints who were endeavoring to hold up the blood-stained banner of Jesus. These dear ones need pastoral help. All through the past months the Lord has wonderfully blessed us with physical health. When one of the company became afflicted we would take the case to the Lord and obey his Word, and the result invariably has been healing. Not having any financial income for our support, we also trusted the Lord to supply all our needs, and he has not failed us; therefore we are not afraid to trust him still; for his promises are aye and amen in Christ Jesus. We go from here to Arkansas City, after which we will be ready for meetings wherever God may lead. Our permanent post-office address for the summer will be Western Park, Kansas. Pray that we may keep humble before God.
G. W. Carey and Company.
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FROM GERMANY
Hamburg, Germany,
March 26.
Dear Saints of God and Trumpet Readers: I am glad to greet you all in Jesus’ name through the columns of the Trumpet once more, and to testify to the saving and sanctifying power of the precious blood of Jesus. I praise his name for real satisfaction and victory in my soul, and for the sweet consciousness that I am moving in the order of our God. I will write a few lines according to promise and let the dear ones know of my whereabouts.
I arrived here in Hamburg, on February 21, after a thirteen days’ journey on the ocean with fair weather. I suffered only a slight of sea-sickness, for which I truly praise God with all my heart. I found a few dear ones anxiously awaiting my coming. In this large, dark city of over six hundred thousand people are a few who are hungry for the pure gospel, and have been praying for several years for some one to come with the truth. Since the gospel work is more difficult here than in the States it may not move as fast as there; yet I feel assured that God wants the work here to be pushed by his children. The greatest difficulty lies in the fact that everything is controlled by the Government, and permission from it is needful for any kind of religious work, and anything outside their own doctrine is met with superstition. When I came here I found I would need a license to handle our literature. I made application to the police court for it; but I had to appear before them three different times, also had to bring copies of the books and tracts to them for inspection. For a while it seemed as if no license would be granted; but I told the Lord in much earnest prayer about it, and also felt that the dear brethren and sisters were praying, though they did not know how things were. So at last I was told that I could sell the books and received a license to that effect. I did not get the privilege to go from house to house, but people must first order the books before I could deliver them. But I have the right of sending all I care to by mail, so I have sent about 300 German Trumpets and tracts to different parts of Germany, and have already received a few encouraging letters, also a few questioning to know more about us. So I feel much encouraged though it may move ever so slow. Praise and thanks be to God! A good part of my work will undoubtedly be in writing. If the German brethren will send me the addresses of friends here, I will send them literature. Please give this your attention; but above all, dear ones, pray much the prayer of faith in behalf of the work here. I have been holding some cottage-meetings, but find I can not reach the people in general with these meetings and am looking to the Lord to give us a place so that we can hold public meetings. We believe he will open the way. I will from time to time let you all know how the Lord is dealing with me here.
George Vielguth,
Hamburg-Hammerbrook,
Lorenzstr, 30,III, Germany.
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In Small-Pox Hospital.
Quarantine P. O. Missouri,
March 29.
I am saved and kept by the power of God. Bless his name! Sister Reed was sick with chicken-pox; three children had the same; also she was confined and a little girl was born that had the same thing. They had to call a doctor to record the birth and he pronounced it chicken-pox. Faith in God delivered them. My wife took it and was sick only three or four days. Our second child took it, and in about ten days was over it. Then the oldest child had it and was sick only two days when he went back to his work. On the 15th of March I took the small-pox. Thinking it chicken-pox I had the saints pray and was anointed. I was very sick - much worse than any of the others. On March 25 some one notified the health department and the commissioner came to see me. Inside of one hour they had me in an ambulance and on the way to the quarantine, which is fourteen miles from where I live (in St. Louis). I arrived at Quarantine at 10:45 p. m.
Truly I dreaded to come. I now see the hand of God in it, since he has so wonderfully delivered me after being so very sick with it. It has wonderfully strengthened my faith in God to come here and see how slowly cases not worse than mine get along. I have not failed to eat heartily, and I sleep well. I go around where I please. One man died in my ward the 27th of this month. There have been 48 white, male cases since January 1, and quite a number of ladies and colored people. There are 40 or 50 cases of this disease here. I see the hand of God in it, as I have the privilege every day to tell some one of the wonderful power of God. They asked me to take charge of the funeral at which 20 were present. I used for my text Hebrews 9:27. Truly I am praising God for the privilege of coming here. Bless his dear name! I awoke at 12 o’clock last night and talked with the Lord till 4 this morning. Tongue can not express the good this visit has been to me. God impressed me of the need of at least one library of books in Ward No. 2, the one I am in. There ought to be three; one in the female ward, and one in the colored ward. I spoke to them about it this morning, and they granted the privilege, and said they would be glad to have them.
Now I ask the saints to pray that God will supply the means to put it in. They need at least $5.00 worth of cloth-bound books and some tracts and papers. They granted the privilege of placing one in each ward if I wished. I shall see to having a book-case made, and shall trust God for the means to fill it. If the Lord lays it upon any one to donate for it, send to me, and God will reward you for the same. Yours under the blood,
John Stage.
2734 Lucas Avenue,
St. Louis, Missouri.
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Testimonies
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Louisiana, Missouri.
My testimony is that I am still saved and sanctified, and praising God for his goodness. I have been saved for six years. Praise his name for his glorious salvation that saves and keeps every day!
H. Haas.
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Oakahay, Mississippi.
I lived in the Missionary Baptist sect sixteen years. Through reading The Gospel Trumpet and Word of God I was shown the error I was in. I obeyed the Word in Revelation 18 and came out and was baptized by one of God’s true ministers. Since that time I have been living close to my Savior, trusting him for all spiritual blessings. I ask the saints to pray that I may be kept by the Holy Spirit.
Mrs. M. E. Davis.
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Albany, Ohio.
I can testify to the glorious work of God. He has healed me both soul and body. Praise the Lord! He has been very kind to me. For two years I have lived for my Savior, and he has healed me of heart-disease, chronic catarrh, and the grip. I promised to testify if he would heal me, and, praise his holy name! He healed me, not only of these, but of numerous other ailments. I take the Lord for my physician in everything. I am praying for the salvation of my husband. I prayed for my father, and he is now saved.
Mrs. W. L. Weaver.
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Oakland, Pennsylvania.
I am fully saved and sanctified, and kept by the power of God. I praise the Lord for victory over sin and all worldly pleasures. He cleansed me from all filthiness of the flesh. I used tobacco thirty years, and the dear Lord took away all the appetite. Praise the dear Lord for victory! A few of God’s chosen people are in this place, and we have a meeting-house rented. If any one feels led of the Lord to come here and hold meeting, we would be pleased for them to do so.
D. P. Moore.
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Trumpet Office, Moundsville, West Virginia.
I am thankful for the privilege of writing my testimony again. I can truly say that the Lord’s goodness has been manifested to me in saving my soul, sanctifying my nature, and healing my body when afflicted, also in bestowing many other blessings that accompany salvation. The life of a Christian just suits me. I have tests of different kinds, but as they come, the Lord gives me grace and glory to go through for him. Though the Lord was good to me while in sin, yet, since I have been saved, he has been doing abundantly above all that I could ask or think, and I do appreciate his goodness to me, and also the privilege of doing what I can to extend the wonders of his grace. Pray that I may keep humble and be obedient to his will at all times.
R. Bert Tamplin.
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Ripley, Oklahoma,
I am truly glad that I am saved and have victory over all the powers of darkness. I can say of a truth that my peace is as a river. I am so glad I have found that fountain which was opened in the house of David for sin and uncleanness. Dear saints, as time moves on let us improve every opportunity for doing good; let us live in such nearness to God that our souls will be continually filled with his glory. God help us to manifest the life of Christ in all things, that those who are walking in the avenues of sin may, by our loyalty to God, find a wonderful deliverance in him who died for all.
William H. Oldham.
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Glencoe, California.
My testimony is that I am saved and kept from sin by the power of God, and that by meeting the conditions of the Word, by faith, I have been sanctified by a second, definite work of grace. I take Christ as my physician and have been healed many times. Bless his name forever! I am determined by the grace of God to fight a good fight of faith against the powers of darkness; “for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world; against spiritual wickedness in high places.” “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand.” “Oh, that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men.”
Alva A. Berry.
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Columbiana, Ohio.
I am thankful for the blessed privilege of enjoying salvation, and for God’s goodness to me. He has been my physician for four years, and I want to always live so close to him that I shall never need any other. He healed my children of grip this winter. How precious is the promise that we shall not be tempted above that we are able to bear. Truly we are living in perilous times, when the truth is so counterfeited. If we are not wide awake, we can be deceived. Let us be wide awake, and valiant for the truth. God wants soldiers who are not afraid to face the battle; hearts that are not looking after the things of the world. It will do no good when death stares us in the face to say: “Oh if I could live my life over I would live for God.” We all have the privilege of living for him every day. Pray that if it does not please God to remove the persecution, he will give abundant grace to bear it.
Onetta Oesch.
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Carlisle, Kentucky.
I can say that I am happy on the way and praising God for a perfect salvation. The Lord is strong to deliver and mighty to save. Praise his name, I have found it so! I thank God for showing me the true church. I am glad that I saw the light and was willing to walk in it, and have found the true saints who worship God in spirit and in truth. I can say I love this way more and more because I know it is of God. God being my helper I will remain in it forever. I have been out in this blessed way only five months, and they have been the happiest five months of my life. I only regret that I did not start sooner. Now I am in my Father’s house, where by his grace I will stay. Pray that I may let my light shine before my family and loved ones, and that God will give me a token of his love, mercy, and power to heal, so they may be convinced that we are the true children of God. God bless his children everywhere and The Gospel Trumpet, is my prayer.
Joseph Fitzwaters.
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Burbank, Ohio.
Some years ago I gave my heart to God and he wonderfully blessed my soul. I tried to live right for some time, but do not think I was really dead to sin. Perhaps I did not fully understand what it really means to die to everything. I felt as though the Master wanted me to work in his vineyard, but was very disobedient to his call; consequently I went back into the world and served the devil for a long time. But I came back to the Lord last winter in a meeting held in this place. Certainly it was through the prayers of God’s people and a good mother that I was brought back to Jesus. Praise his holy name forever! I walked in a justified state for a few weeks with an eagerness to go on to perfection. I was tempted and tried and would yield and then get back to Jesus. But I made a full surrender for full sanctification and placed myself all upon the altar. Halleluiah for the cleansing, it has reached my inmost soul, and I am now upon the Bible way of holiness. I ask God’s little ones to pray that I may do only the Master’s will.
John H. Moore.
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Franklin Georgia.
It is the grace of God that has saved and sanctified my soul. Two years ago I heard the truth preached. I at first fought it with all the weapons the devil was able to furnish: but through the loving kindness of the Lord I was spared to investigate. By so doing I found there was satisfaction for my weary soul. I began quitting some of my filthy habits which nearly all professed Christians and worldly people in this country are guilty of. I quit using whiskey with little trouble; but the devil told me I had used tobacco so long that I could not quit it. I began trying to find peace for my soul and use tobacco; but I met disappointments on every hand. Last August I went to the camp-meeting at Potash, Alabama. I would go off in the woods and smoke, and then go back to the meeting and go through a form of worship. Oh, how my heart ached as I listened to the shouts of victory and the praises of those who loved the God that had saved their souls! I vowed to God that I would quit tobacco and serve him. “You can’t,” the devil would whisper. That evening as the dear saints began to sing the sweet songs of Zion, “Now is the day of salvation,” would ring in my ears. I arose to my feet, weak and trembling, but with a determination to serve God. The dear saints prayed God to forgive my sins, which I felt were many. Glory be to God! I received peace into my soul. I still have that sweet peace. I have not wanted any more tobacco. I am living to all the light I have. Myself and wife are doing all we can to pull down the strongholds of the devil. Any saints coming here will be welcomed.
E. A. Fowler.
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Tibitha, Virginia.
I am praising the Lord for a full and free salvation, and for the sweet peace and joy that I have in my soul. I can not find words to express my love and gratitude to Jesus for his goodness to me. He is my Savior, and I find him a present help in every time of need. Truly, dear ones, it is wonderful what the dear Lord will do for us if we will only trust and obey him. He has promised never to leave or forsake us. I praise God that he has led me from darkness into the light of Jesus. The great desire of my life is to please God by leading a pure and holy life. Nine years ago I took the Lord for my physician, and though I have been sick several times since, he has healed me every time. Last July I was suddenly taken sick. I had a severe headache and was much worse the next day, but some of the brethren and sisters came and prayed for me, and I felt much better until that night, when I was taken suddenly worse and continued so for several days, being unconscious part of the time. All that saw me said I had the typhoid fever, and some said that if I did not have the doctor I would surely die. One evening I was impressed to read my Bible. I read two chapters and picked up the book “The Grace of Healing” and began to read that. The first words which arrested my attention were these:
“When Christ was here upon earth he healed all manner of disease.” As I read it over I said, “Lord, I know thou art just the same to-day as thou hast ever been, and believe thou wilt heal me now.” He did heal me, for I had the witness that I was healed. Praise God! I find it sweet to trust in Jesus.
I ask an interest in the prayers of God’s true children that I may get closer to the Lord and sink deeper in his love.
Mrs. Virginia Douglas.
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Obituaries.
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CASH. Sister Mary Catherine Pepper Cash died at the residence of her son, William Pepper, in Payne, Ohio, March 22, 1901, aged 53 years, 5 months, and 27 days. She accepted the pure gospel at the first hearing several years ago. The deceased leaves three sons and one daughter. Funeral and burial at Payne, Ohio.
W.L. Kilpatrick.
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BAILEY Mary Bailey was born March 17, 1871; fell asleep in Jesus March 20, 1901. She died with quick consumption. She leaves a husband, four children, and relatives. This dear sister was conscious until death, saying she was ready and willing to go. She bore her affliction with great patience, having accepted the truth four weeks prior to her death. Blessed are they that die in the Lord.
W. D. Keefer.
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Black Ash, Pennsylvania.
HIPPLE J. M. Hipple departed this life March 25, 1901; aged 77 years, 9 months, and 16 days. About 40 years ago he was saved in the Methodist denomination and lived a faithful Christian worker. When he heard this light preached he walked in all that God gave him. When sickness came he trusted in the Lord and said he was ready to go and that all was well.
Susan Hipple.
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ALLEN Miss Marie Evaleen Allen, daughter of Brother Charles A. Allen, now deceased, and Sister Minerva A. Allen, of Tidioute, Pennsylvania, was born June 1, 1869, in Ravena, Portage County, Ohio, and fell asleep in Jesus December 21, 1900, at her mother’s home in Tdidoute. She was converted during her illness and accepted the truth in all its fullness. Desiring to fulfill the Word of God, she was anointed for her healing according to James 5:14 15, but it was not the Lord’s will to raise her up. She was resigned to all the will of God and said, “Not my will, but thine be done: for me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” She leaves many friends to mourn their loss which is her eternal gain. Funeral services were held at the home of her mother. Text, Amos 4:12 - “Prepare to meet thy God.” She was highly esteemed by all who knew her; and during her illness, when her brothers and friends called to see her, she exhorted them to get salvation and meet her in heaven. Her brothers promised they would do so. We sincerely hope and pray that they will carry out their promise and prepare to meet their God.
Charles J. Stewart.
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Divine Healing.
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He is faithful that promised.
Healed Through Faith.
I am praising God for his healing power. He has healed me of different things. He healed my little girl of kidney trouble of five years’ standing. We take everything to God in prayer. I am so glad I have learned to trust the Lord. Praise his holy name! I am saved and sanctified.
Mrs. Belle Rutter.
Carrsville, Kentucky.
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Healed of Stomach Trouble.
I can testify to the goodness of the Lord in saving, keeping, and healing. Ten months ago he healed me of stomach trouble, for which I give him all the glory. Husband and I are both saved and trusting in the Lord for both soul and body. It has been four years since we have taken medicine or used any simple remedy. Dear ones, it pays to trust God at all times. I ask the dear saints to pray that we may prove faithful and do God’s will at all times. If any of God’s ministers should be passing through, we would be glad to have them stop with us, four miles northeast of town in Hamford Valley.
Mrs. Louie Miller.
Centralia, Washington,
March 22.
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Healed of Deafness.
I wish to testify of God’s mighty healing power. My soul doth magnify the Lord for his goodness to the children of men. I had a severe attack of the grip which settled in my right ear. The pain I suffered for three hours was almost unbearable. But the Lord has promised to heal; so I called the children of God together and had prayer. The pain ceased immediately. I was also nearly deaf in one ear and my hearing was restored. A few days afterward I took cold which settle in my ear. It pained me and I was altogether deaf for a few days. It also affected my left ear. I sent a request for prayer and my ear opened and I can now hear as well as ever; to God be all the praise and glory. I am also thankful for the precious lessons I learned through my afflictions, on temperance, patience, and humility. I ask the prayers of the saints.
Matilda Wismer.
Vineland, Ontario.
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True to His Promises.
I wish to tell what God has done for me. My heart goes out in thanksgiving to him for his daily care and protection. During the past two months I suffered very much with my back. I would feel pretty well in the morning, but by evening would be scarcely able to sit up. I went to God for healing with perfect confidence, feeling sure he would be true to his Word. After a meeting I was anointed and had hands laid on, but the pain did not leave. I had to wait for the street-car and it seemed my back never hurt more than at that time; yet the words: “I’m healed, I know I am,” kept ringing in my mind. Just as I stepped from the car the pain entirely left, and I burst out singing: “With afflictions great and sore,” etc., forgetful of where I was until I met a man; but I was so rejoiced over what God had done for me that I did not care if he did hear me.
In answer to prayer God healed my husband of a serious inward injury received in a runaway, when we knew he could not live unless God healed him. Our little boy was quite sick with pneumonia; but God healed him. I am glad to realize to some extent what God can do for us. When we are entirely consecrated we find him true to all his promises. It is a precious thought that whether we live or die we are the Lord’s. God is surely caring for us, and we are entirely given up to him. Let us not be afraid to trust God, for he will only do what is the best for us. We want to always say: “Thy will be done.”
K. A. Nelson.
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Healed of Severe Cough and Other Afflictions.
I am praising God that he has saved my soul from sin, sanctified my nature, and that he heals my body and keeps me by his mighty power. Last fall I had such a terrible bronchial cough that every one, including myself, thought I had consumption. I became so weak that I was unable to attend to my house-hold duties as I should. I sent for an anointed handkerchief and it was applied in the name of the Lord, and he wonderfully healed me not only of that but of other afflictions. Praise his name forever! During the month of January I contracted a cold which resulted in a severe attack of the grip. I obeyed the Word, and the Lord touched my body. But I must have taken cold again; for in a few weeks I was taken with pneumonia. A sister told me that death was fairly stamped upon my face. I fully realized my condition; yet I was determined to trust God even to the end, knowing that what he promised he was able also to perform. My husband spoke of going for a doctor; but I told him he need get no doctor for me. I felt I was beyond doctor’s aid. If God wanted to take me, it was all right; if not, I knew he was abundantly able to raise me up. So he went for the elders. When they came they too thought I was beyond doctor’s help; but we obeyed the Word. God raised me up. For about two weeks my lungs were very sore, and I had a terrible cough; but I was perfectly resigned to the will of God, to go or stay. To-day I am able to go about my work. I have a good appetite and am feeling better than I did before last fall.
God has truly done a wonderful work for me in soul and body. Glory to his name! He is my sole physician. Whereas before I used drugs of various kinds, to-day I can say the Lord has delivered me from all of them, and enables me to trust him in every affliction. He is also my children’s physician. Although they are very young, they have learned to trust him fully. God is ever faithful and I exhort those who are afflicted and are trying to trust him to keep on trusting him; for he is ever faithful that promised. By God’s grace I will trust him as long as he giveth me breath. Pray that God ever keep me humble and low before him; that I may glorify him as long as I live. “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities, who healeth all thy diseases.” - Psalms 103:2, 3.
Lena Pratt.
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Delivered From Death.
For eighteen years I was a member of the Amish denomination, and was made to believe if I should die I would gain a home in heaven; but I had never been truly converted. About three months before my conversion I heard the true gospel preached and was made to realize my lost condition. For several years I was afflicted with consumption and other diseases, and for two years I was not able to do even my own work. By the use of morphine I was somewhat relieved; but it would not give me the desired sleep; so for two years I slept but little. Sometimes for weeks I could sleep scarcely at all. I employed many doctors, but they could not help me, and told me that I was incurable. One doctor told me that by an operation there would be one more chance of my recovery. After the time was appointed for an operation I heard that the Lord could heal me without doctor, medicine, or operation. I then quit taking medicine and gave up the doctors; but I became very low and weak, and heart trouble appeared. I thought my time would be short, as did others who were around me. One Sunday evening some of God’s saints came in to hold meeting; but I was too weak to be in the same room. I was unable to talk much. After the meeting some of the saints came into my bedroom. I then asked them to pray for me. The elder laid hands upon me, rebuked the devil, and prayed for the salvation of my soul. Then the question was asked: “Are you willing to give up your denomination?” God made it very plain that I had to do so, and after I yielded, he forgave my many sins. Praise God for ever and ever! The Lord also healed me, and I arose the next morning and ate at the table, which I had not done for a long time. God shall have all the glory.
After the Lord did this mighty work for me my soul was so full that I had no more room for anything else; but a brother told me I ought to be sanctified. I had such a wonderful experience that I thought I had all I could contain at that time. He told me I would find out before long the need of sanctification. About six weeks after my conversion and healing, one Sunday morning as I was getting ready to go to meeting, the horse stepped upon my foot. I became angry and after whipping the horse awhile I realized what I had done and remembered what the brother had told me. I went to meeting and as an opportunity was given for testifying I told what had happened. I sought the Lord and he pardoned me. I was again happy and free. Shortly afterwards I sought the experience of sanctification. Since that time I have been enabled by the grace of God to live free from sin, and without getting cross and angry. That was nine years ago. Since that time he has done more than I could ask or think. Halleluiah to his name!
After I had a settled experience the Lord called me to tell others the great things he had done for me. I have been permitted since then to see the salvation of many souls. Many sick and afflicted have been healed in answer to prayer, and broken bones healed insomuch that the healed could arise in the name of the Lord and walk without crutch or cane. Those that were possessed of devils were set free. Glory to his name! Since my healing I have been sick at different times; for the Word says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” As soon as I met the conditions for healing he healed me.
During my visit at Moundsville, West Virginia, I became very sick with typhoid fever. The prayers of God’s children ascended to the throne of grace; but in spite of all I got worse and worse. I was unconscious for the space of about five hours in which I did not speak a word. I saw the angels ascending and a brightness surrounded me which is indescribable. After I came to my senses I heard a brother praying. I then said: “Now in this cold, sinful world before me again.” It seemed after my experience in that unconscious state, it was impossible that I should yet remain longer upon this earth. I was cold and stiff as a dead person; but after I became conscious I revived and became warm. So they kept talking and praying for me until I was willing to stay here a while longer. Then they anointed me and prayed, and I was instantly healed, but was weak until the next morning, when I arose and dressed, and went down stairs. I was told by different witnesses that for two hours there was no sign of life in my body. Then a brother said, “Lord, if there is any hope, give us a sign.” Then my right hand slid softly from my body to my side. They then sent for another brother and told him the situation, but he could not believe that the Lord would take me away at that time. When he came he found some weeping, as they believed I was dead.
After a short time I came home to Ohio, about two hundred miles, praising God all the way. I praise God for what he has done for me, and for the hope I have in my soul of that home in heaven which is not only prepared for me, but for all God’s people. By God’s grace and with his help I will go through at any cost. I ask all God’s saints to pray that I may be true at all times.
Nancy A. K. Taylor.
West Liberty, Ohio.
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