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The Gospel Trumpet
Volume 21 - Issue 26 - July 4, 1901
(Articles of interest only)
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Children of Light.
Walk in the light, so shalt thou know
That fellowship of love
His Spirit only can bestow,
Who reigns in light above.
Walk in the light, and sin, abhorred,
Shall ne’er defile again:
The blood of Jesus Christ the Lord
Shall cleanse from every stain.
Walk in the light, and thou shalt find
Thy heart made truly his,
Who dwells in cloudless light enshrined,
In whom no darkness is.
Walk in the light, and thou shalt own
Thy darkness pass away,
Because that light hath on thee shone,
In which is perfect day.
Walk in the light, and e’en the tomb
No fearful shade shall wear:
Glory shall chase away its gloom,
For Christ hath conquered there!
Walk in the light, and thou shalt be
A path, though thorny, bright:
For God by grace shall dwell in thee,
And God himself is light.
Selected.
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Second Cleansing of the Soul.
By J. M. Harrington.
The language, “second cleansing,” implies that there is a first, which we admit and teach, and which has been taught all through this reformation. We are cleansed from all our actual sins in the first — as pure as the grace of regeneration purifies man, but not entirely pure. The “one cleansing teachers” make light of a thing being holy and then becoming more holy — a thing that is perfect being made more perfect; but we invite the attention of such to God’s Word — Hebrews 9:9-11. Here Paul speaks of “holiest.” Certainly this gives us to understand it to be more than holy, and the 11th verse says: “By a greater and more perfect tabernacle.” We again see by this that a thing can be perfect and yet become more perfect. These are points that once confused me, but, thank God! The mist are gone.
We will appeal to the Word of truth on the subject of the second cleansing of the soul. First, we will notice sin in its twofold meaning. Though man’s heart is evil from his youth (Genesis 8:21), we are told by some that children go astray from the way they are taught; that they learn to do evil and are led astray only by the impressions made upon their minds by the devil. They claim that the soul of the child is a blank, containing nothing, either from God or the devil. This is the idea conveyed by the one-cleansing teachers. Compare this with the Word of God, which says, “man’s heart is evil from his youth.” Truly we believe this text. We see it manifested on every side. Which shall we believe — the plain Word of God, or man’s notion? Again, we read: “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” — Genesis 6:5. Here we learn that very early after man’s creation his wickedness was great — not only this, but it proceeded from the heart. Certainly man had an evil heart. This evil nature in the heart is styled “sin.” We see by these scriptures that there is sin in the heart: Psalms 51:5; Hebrews 12:1; 1st John 1:7. And again we read of sins. 1st John 2:12; 1st John 1:9; Revelation 1:5. We also see sin set forth in two forms — sin inherited and sins committed. In justification all actual transgressions are blotted out; we are washed from our sins, and made free from all committed sins. Yet there is a nature in the soul, or heart, that is contrary to the nature of Christ. It is useless for man to try to prove that he gets all the cleansing in regeneration.
The “one-cleansing teacher” makes a hobby of the new heart, and new creature, etc. Recently I had a talk with one of the leaders of that heresy. He claims to have more love and a better experience than any that believe in two cleansing, or one cleansing either. He claims to believe in a second cleansing and thinks we receive it when we get the Holy Ghost, but that it cleanses the flesh, not the soul. Think of it, the Spirit cleanses the flesh — some more confusion. It is the soul that sins, and it is the soul that is the responsible part of man. So all those in Christ who have not been cleansed have the privilege of seeking this blessing. The branches must be purged. John 15:2. Here we learn that the branches in Christ may receive a purging. The one-cleansing teachers tell us that this is only cutting off some outward act in life, etc. Those little things are such as we can quit ourselves, but here is a purging that God says he will do. This work is not accomplished by man. Again, we read, “Purge the conscience.” Does this mean to take off a little of the outside? Again, it says, “Purge out the old leaven.” Is this an internal work, or something on the outside? We must admit it to be an internal work wrought by the Holy Ghost. Acts 15:8, 9. Sanctified (or cleansed). Romans 15:16.
Again, these men make a hobby of the new heart. They draw this picture before your minds as a literal heart, and that we get rid of it (the old one) and get a new one. Now the inner man or soul of man must be the heart of man. So then in what sense do we get a new heart? Certainly in the sense that our heart is wrought upon by the Spirit of Christ and made new — new life, new desires, new purposes, the affections taken from the world and placed on things above. This was the condition of the brethren when Paul said, “Let us lay aside every weight [incumbrance], and the sin which doth so easily beset us.” — Hebrews 12:1. These brethren were in Christ and had a new heart. They enjoyed the blessing of justification, yet Paul gives us to understand they had sin to get rid of. Yes, Says the one-cleansing man, that sin is the sin of unbelief. We ask for evidence to prove it. Were we to admit it is, that does not help his theory out in the least. It was a sin, and the brethren were admonished to get rid of it. They make another hobby in regard to the third chapter of 1st Corinthians. They put great stress on the words, “envying, strife, and division,” and associate them with the text in Galatians 5:21, which is unfair; for the Word of God tells us just how far the Corinthian brethren’s envying and strife and division extended. Read the 4th verse and you will see — one for Paul and one for Apollos. We find in the 9th verse they were God’s building and in the 23rd verse, “And ye are Christ’s.” So, since they were Christ’s and God’s building, they certainly were justified, and only needed to be cleansed from the inherited sin (carnal mind). Let us look at the inconsistency of their argument. They tell us that those brethren in 1st Corinthians 3:1-5 were not justified because some were for one preacher and some for the other; then they say, in the face of all this, “All people are Christians, it matters not what they believe, just so they are honest.” They themselves are divided on points of doctrine, yet they all claim to be in Christ. It is simply because of a lack of honesty and knowledge of the truth. Again, we read, “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” — 1st Thessalonians 5:23. Here we see the brethren were to be sanctified (or cleansed). The word “sanctify” means cleanse, and especially in this text; for this is written by God, or the Holy Ghost. What was the condition of those brethren? Answer: — “Not in darkness.” — Verse 4; “Children of light.” — Verse 5. “Hold fast that which is good.” — Verse 21. So it is an evident fact that this sanctification was a second cleansing.
May God ever bless those who have this experience and cause them to be true and manifest to all around the purity of a sanctified life. May the Lord convict those who have not this experience and enable them to earnestly thirst after the fullness until they get the real experience. Christ died that you may enjoy a second cleansing of the soul. Hence we read: “Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity [one cleansing], and purify [second cleansing] unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” — Titus 2:14.
Two Extremes.
By D. Otis Teasley.
Hundreds of professed Christians and ministers of the gospel in this age of the world are lowering the standard of truth, so that almost any one, though unregenerate at heart and filled with pride and worldly ambition, may presume to stand in the sanctuary of God. On the other hand, many have overreached the mark, and try to bind upon all men the ideas of their own perverted consciences, thus diving into many unreasonable notions and leading the souls of men astray. Zeal and wisdom are two precious elements of which we should have an equal supply. Without this equality we are either filled with compromise of frenzied with fanaticism. So let us be sure, while applying for wisdom, to ask for an equal supply of holy zeal; and while asking God for zeal, let us also ask for sufficient wisdom to keep us balanced.
We will now proceed to set up the standard of truth on several lines, and to notice the two extremes, compromise and fanaticism — one on either side of the truth. We will first notice the standard of truth with regard to
OUR ATTIRE.
“In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array: but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” — 1st Timothy 2:9, 10. “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” — 1st Peter 3:3, 4.
These scriptures clearly set forth the truth in regard to dress. They teach that we should dress without wearing gold or costly array, but “in modest apparel.” Some objectors may possibly say these scriptures do not forbid the wearing of laces, ruffles, tucks, feathers and flowers on the hats, etc. But such is a mistake. The words “modest apparel” will cause any one having the fear of God to discard all showy and unnecessary adornment.
Again, the Word of God says, “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save your souls.” — James 1:21. The truth is, God wants his children to dress plain, modest, and without any unnecessary gayety or show. Those having a glowing experience of salvation and who are where God can talk to them, will have little trouble in knowing how to dress to please him.
COMPROMISE.
The Lord says he knowest the proud afar off. This is why so many have become so steeped in compromise that they can wear almost anything without feeling condemned. They have grown proud, and thus have drifted away from their first love. It has been a long time with many since God has spoken to their souls. Under the influence of this slimy spirit the ladies can tuck their waists, ruffle their skirts, and comb their hair in the latest styles and think nothing of it, for the simple fact that their hearts are filled with such desires, and their consciences being perverted, no longer condemn them. Be it known to you, dear reader, if you wear that which the Word of God forbids, it is because your heart is filled with pride, or because you have not known the truth. Many try to hide behind the word “neatness,” and stretch it to mean tucks, ruffles, neck-ties, high collars, and almost everything the world itself wears. Such persons seem to think that when the style calls for large sleeves, they look neater with their sleeves made large; and when the style calls for a tight sleeve, they conclude at once that a tight sleeve would suit them better. So they drift on the tide of fashion and try to excuse themselves on the grounds of “neatness.” However, to crop off the fruits without having pride rooted out of the heart will do no good. What is needed is an application of the blood.
FANATICISM.
More zeal than wisdom will cause a person to become fanatic and think that every one should dress as he or she does, and that all should dress alike, regardless of their form. Under the influence of this spirit you will hear people trying to make it a doctrine of the Bible that every one should wear a collar, of just a certain height or shape, or teaching that no one should wear a high-cut coat or vest. Such teaching is very unreasonable. A person who has a long neck can wear a much higher collar and do so with perfect ease, than one who has a short neck. So we can not draw the line so closely as to say that every one must wear a collar two inches high; for while some would be comfortable, others would be unable to turn their heads without turning the whole body. If anything troubles our conscience in the least, we would do well to lay it off and wait for God to show us what to do. It is good policy, if we are wearing something about which we are undecided, to lay it off and wait until the Lord shows us to put it on, as God can then show us more quickly.
I once heard of a man who, being undecided about his call to the ministry, drove a nail into a board and concluded if God did not remove it he would take if for granted that he was called to preach. Another person, hearing of his manner of deciding the matter, advised him to remove the nail and tell the Lord if he wanted him to preach to drive the nail into the board again. Of course he had to acknowledge his procedure unscriptural, because he was placing himself where God could not show him. He really wanted to preach from a self-exalted principle, and by taking for a sign of God’s approval something which he knew God has not promised, he thought to get the decision in his own favor. If people wearing things which their consciences and God’s Word condemns would lay off their superfluity and wait till God leads them to put it on, they would come nearer the line of truth. People often get so fanatic as to be proud of their humility (?), and others are even proud of their slovenliness.
CONCLUSION.
But why is all this compromise and fanaticism? Some will say it is not in their hearts; yet they dress like the world and even possess an air of independence, have a proud look, and are filled with self-importance. Others will go slovenly attired and fault every one else for not doing likewise; yet they profess to be filled with all the fullness of God. The secret of it all is: “A corrupt tree can not bring forth good fruit.” The Bible is the only thing which we can require all men to live to; and every one who would go to heaven must live by every Word which proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord. When the heart, the fountain-head of life, is right with God and we are where God can talk to us, we will have little trouble in keeping ourselves in line with our outward actions and dress.
Some who a few years ago were content to wear a plain hat have their consciences so perverted that they can wear almost anything, just so they do not get feathers or flowers. They think nothing of covering the rim of their hats with chiffon, ribbons, etc. Many cry out against pride, yet at the same time trim their little children’s clothes with braid, laces, ruffles, etc. Thus they foster pride in the hearts of the rising generation and lead their little souls astray. Even ministers of the gospel are guilty of allowing their children to be dressed in immodest apparel and in things which they would not wear themselves.
Brethren, let us awake to the trick of the enemy on this line and face the awful monster of pride, which has crushed the spiritual life out of other reformations, and is now trying like a leech to fasten upon the present one.
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HOPE
By N. A. Ball.
“Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy, at thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” — Psalms 16:9.
“Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known unto me the way of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.” — Acts 2:26, 28. “And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope is in thee.” — Psalms 39:7. Blessed be our God for the hope we have beyond the grave.
So many are going on in sin and darkness without God or hope. It seems to me if there ever was a time when salvation and “hope” were needed, it is now. My heart is grieved at the great number of professed Christians that know nothing about hope beyond the grave, and because of this, few live the life that they should. No wonder souls are not getting saved! Brethren, why not labor more earnestly and patiently than ever before? Let us as Christian people hold up the banner of Jesus Christ and send forth the Words of truth to those we come in contact with. It does not take ministers alone to do this, but every child of God can tell of the love of Jesus, what precious promises he has given us, and of the hope that maketh not ashamed. The Lord has dealt with us so faithfully, and we should be willing and ready to deal with others in like manner. May the Lord help us. The 116th Psalm come to me quite forcibly: “I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplication. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. Then called I upon the name of the Lord; O Lord, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me. Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee. For thou has delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living. I believed, therefore have I spoken: I said in my haste, All men are liars. What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows unto the Lord now in the presence of all his people. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. O Lord, truly I am thy servant, and the son of thine handmaid: thou has loosed my bands. I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows into the Lord now in the presence of all his people, in the courts of the Lord’s house, in the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord.”
Could every one only realize the great need of Christ, as the Psalmist did, they would profess the love of God to all people. “Hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” — Romans 5:5. “For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, what doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.” — Chapter 8:24, 25. “Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer.” — Chapter 12:12.
“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” — 1st Corinthians 13:3. “The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints.” — Ephesians 1:18. “For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.” — Galatians 5:5.
“We have a hope within our soul,
Brighter than the perfect day;
God has given us his Spirit,
And we want the world to hear it,
All our doubts are passed away.”
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The New Testament Church.
By Alvin J. Ellison.
Chapter 11.
DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH.
As we enter upon the theme before us we wish to say the New Testament church doctrine is fully set forth in the Holy Scriptures, and there is not a single phrase to be accepted by the church, as doctrine or discipline, that is not fully set forth in the Word of truth. For “all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” — 2nd Timothy 3:16, 17.
By this text it is easy to see that the Holy Scriptures contain all necessary instruction to the church of God, for both faith and practice. “Profitable for doctrine.” Therefore, when necessary to teach doctrine, we appeal directly to the written Word. When necessary to reprove, correct, or otherwise instruct, we do likewise. We absolutely need nothing more than the Holy Scriptures; because obedience to them will make the man of God perfect and thoroughly furnish him unto all good works. Therefore, all added doctrines of men are simply throwing lightness upon the Almighty God, who gave us all the doctrine necessary, and are simply superfluous and heretical; for the Lord’s doctrine is but one. You will always find it spoken of in the singular number. But when speaking of the added doctrines of men and doctrines of devils, the Scriptures invariably speak of them in the plural number. This is done because they are many. God wants us to give special heed to his doctrine and stand aloof from all others: for, since his doctrine is but one, all others are but heresy. In 1st Timothy 4:16 we read: “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” The fact that we shall both save ourselves and them that hear us, if we continue in the doctrine, is sufficient proof that if we fail to thus continue, we shall be lost. Oh, may God help us all to cling solely to the one Bible doctrine!
RESULT OF OBEYING THE DOCTRINE.
“But God be thanked, that [though] ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. [This doctrine was the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. See Romans 1:16.] Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.” — Romans 6:17, 18. So wonderful is the effect of obeying this doctrine, that it frees us from our sins — something no other doctrine can do. Therefore, rejecting all others, let us ever give heed to this one Bible doctrine. God’s doctrine is an exclusive doctrine. It supplies every need of doctrine in the New Testament church, covering the entire ground, both of faith and practice. It will neither mix with nor acknowledge the added doctrines of men or devils. No man can at the same time obey both the doctrine of Christ and an unscriptural doctrine of any of the creeds of men; for these are antagonistic to each other. Hence we can acknowledge and obey but one at a time.
In concluding this point we will insert the emphatic words of the apostle John: “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ he hath both the Father and the Son.” — 2nd John 9. This text is clear and definite and needs no further comment or interpretation. It is a solid blast which crumbles the intemperate mortar in the walls of sect Babylon and causes her sandy foundation to give way under the hammer of God’s eternal truth, until there is such a shaking and quaking of clashing creeds that every soul possessing the mind of Christ, who has been bound therein, leaps out through the openings made by heaven’s artillery, and makes his escape home to Zion with songs and everlasting joy, Glory to God!
If you would know of this glorious doctrine, do his will. “For if any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” — John 7:17. Therefore let every reader who is not, get weaned from sect Babylon, forsake the doctrines of men, and give ear to the voice of the Lord thy God. “Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breast.” — Isaiah 28:9. Therefore, as we proceed to give a number of important Bible themes that are included in the doctrine of the New Testament church, we beseech you to keep your heart open to the same, and for your soul’s sake, to obey the truth that you shall find.
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RESURRECTION.
By Nellie Holmes.
In speaking to Martha, whose brother had been dead four days, “Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?” — John 11:23-26.
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.” — Chapter 5:26. Again, he said the words he spoke unto them were spirit and life.
Praise our God for the glorious privilege in Christ Jesus that all mankind has in these last and perilous times. The dead in trespasses and sins, if they hear and obey his voice (his Word), shall be resurrected from dead works to serve the living God. Halleluiah! “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection. Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” — Romans 6:5, 6. “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priest of God and of Christ.” — Revelation 20:6.
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you; who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” — 1st Peter 1:3-5.
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“But King Solomon.”
By Eva M. Wray.
In reading the first book of Kings my attention was drawn as never before to the career of Solomon. In the third chapter it says, “And Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father. . . The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and said, Ask what shall I give thee. And Solomon said, . . . Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad. . . And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life, neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; . .
Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. . . And if thou wilt walk in my ways, to keep my commandments, as thy father David did walk; then I will lengthen thy days.” — 1st Kings 3:14.
“And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the seashore. And Solomon’s wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was wiser than all men; . . . And his fame was in all nations round about. And he spake three thousand proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five, . . . And there came of all people to hear of the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth which had heard of his wisdom.” — 1st Kings 4:29-34.
Solomon was the one chosen among all the Israelites from Abraham to his day, to build the temple of God, and still the 11th chapter says, “BUT.” Ah, dear fellow saints, that is the same word that comes over against the experiences of so many to-day. After we have received so many great and precious promises from God and he has verified them to us, then come the gods of this world — strange doctrines, the love of applause, the love of money, the slipping in of a little of our own will occasionally, perhaps worldly companions, a little conformity to the fashions of the world. It is so easy to let a little leaven slip in, unless we are continually dead to self and live the life of Christ hour by hour. If we give not a moment’s heed to the enemy, he will have no opportunity to slip in unawares.
“But king Solomon loved many strange women; . . . Of the nations concerning which the Lord said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in unto them, neither shall they come in into you: for surely they will turn away your hearts after their gods: . . . For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, . . . For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Tidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. . . And the Lord was angry with Solomon because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice.” — 1st Kings 11:1-9. The same charge stands against the church of Pergamos — “But I have a few things against thee.” — Revelation 2:14.
So, dear saved ones out in this last reformation, let us look well to it that none of these “buts” are standing against us; but rather let us square our lives by the mighty Word of God, which is quick and powerful like a two-edged sword that divides even between the joints and marrow. This leaves no room for worldly conformity, false doctrines, compromise, or anything else that is contrary to the Word of God.
I remember when I first came out into the narrow way I did not realize it was so narrow that I could not take my worldly friends along in one hand, as it were. As I realized there was a coldness coming between us, and they were slipping away one by one, it seemed I could not stand it. But something seemed to say, Jesus only. I then realized it was God’s doings, and said, Thy will be done. Then came the joy and peace of God that passeth understanding, and there was scarcely room to receive it. It by a thousand-fold filled up the vacancy of world friends and pleasures. Praise the Lord!
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WORSHIP.
By Mary Heldenbrand.
“Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, and now is, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet in Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.” — John 4:21, 22.
We can readily see that there is the false as well as the true worship. It was first manifested in Cain and Abel. The worship of to-day is composed of the false and the true. As surely as the false and the true religions existed, they would be manifested in the worship of the people. All nations worship in some way, and it would be just as reasonable to say the heathen were justified in their worship of idols, as to say the enlightened are justified in any way of worship they may choose, just so they are sincere about it. Are not the heathen sincere in the earnestness they put in their worship? Yet they are not justified before God, neither are we if not in harmony with his holy Word. Through the inspired Word we gain a knowledge of good and evil; through it we may know what is the false and what is the true worship before God. I pray that he may stir up the people to search themselves, for since the coming of the Messiah, it is a personal matter, each one must be a true worshiper as sure as each one must be born again. Neither is it confined to the assembly. Where saints are scattered abroad and living among unbelievers, each one should meet at the throne of God in earnest supplication and prayer. “And thy Father, who seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.” If the saints that have not the privilege of assembling with others in meeting would observe the words of Jesus, if they would meet God in the closet in spirit and in truth, there would be none to pine away and die or become prey of devouring spirits.
I wish to notice whether it is our duty to meet in any or every place of worship, as that is held as one of the greatest reproaches or accusations against the saints, and many are sometimes at a loss to know just what is their duty. It is a duty if God’s approval rest upon it; if not, it is not a duty. True, Christ went into the synagogues at times, also the apostles; but it was to teach the people the right ways of the Lord. It is evident the saints met in their assembly for the purpose of worship, in the former days; and to take a stand for God alone means to forsake every false way. To meet in the popular way of worship is highly esteemed among men, for in truth it is all the religion most of them have. Jesus says, “That which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.” Dear readers, is that putting it too strong or misapplying the scriptures? Listen again to the Son of God. “Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? . . . But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? [Then he went on to show them how they disannulled the commandment of God by their tradition, and said]. . . Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth night unto me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” — Matthew 15:1-9.
That is the kind of worship that indeed outwardly appears beautiful and wins the approval of men; but God knowest the heart. He says such worship is in vain, because they teach for doctrine the commandments of men. They disannul the Word of God to hold up their traditions, rejoicing in the work of their own hands and teaching it as the gospel. Now, as we have the vain worship defined by the Word, let us seek for the true.
“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit, and they that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth.” — John 4:23, 24. The Spirit here spoken of is the Holy Spirit, and truth is the Word, as the Word clearly shows it to be. “Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world can not receive; because it seeth him not, neither knowest him: but ye know him, for he dwelleth with you [in the justified state], and shall be in you [in the sanctified state].” Since “God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth,” and that spirit must be of God; no unholy person can worship the Lord in truth. A soul under the Antichrist spirit can not worship the Lord in truth, only as the sinner in repentance. How sad to behold the vast multitude of people worshiping so zealously, they know not what. May the Lord open the eyes of their understanding, to behold the simplicity of the gospel of Christ and the doom that awaits the unbelievers. “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” — John 1:17.
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Resist the Devil.
By J. M. Harrington.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” — James 4:7. We learn by God’s Word that the devil is, and always has been, an enemy of Jesus Christ and the truth that he has brought to the world. He is doing all he can to get as many in his snare as he possibly can. We are commanded to resist him. The text under consideration refers to the children of God, yet God wants the sinner to pull loose, resist the devil, and get salvation. Some may wonder how we can know whether a thing is of God, or of the devil. Now this can be easily understood. Every influence that would try to keep you from giving your heart to God and living right is of the devil. It matters not who it may be. It may be father, mother, brother, sister, wife, or children. It makes no difference; it is not of God, but of the enemy, and God tells us to “resist him.” So it is our duty not to resist flesh and blood, but every evil spirit. So, sinner friend, do your duty and resist the devil and give your heart to the Lord, and God will help if you will do your part.
Beloved saints of God, do you know the devil is on the alert for your souls? What says the Word? “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” — 1st peter 5:8. Here we learn the devil is not asleep, but is always on the watch seeking whom he may get in his trap. He cares not how he ensnares you, just so he succeeds in getting you in his trap — you may backslide, get in to some false doctrine, go back in to sectism — just so he gets you, he cares not which way it is. What shall we do when he tries to influence us? “Whom resist steadfastly in the faith.” Thus we see we should not give in one inch or compromise with the devil, but we should follow Jesus’ example when he said, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” We must not reason with him; he is a good reasoner and will out reason us; so the safe plan is to do as God said do, and as our Example did; namely, “resist him.” If we do this, it will save us much trouble in our experience. It is true, the wolf in sheep’s clothing looks very much like the sheep, but he does not make the same kind of track. By watching you will see the wolf. He will come as an angel of light and act very good and nice and appear to be very spiritual and make the impression that God has been revealing himself so wonderfully to him. One of the leaders in the “one-work heresy” made the wolf track. His own words betrayed him, and it was very easy to see what spirit he was under. Of course those who were blinded by his false spirit and doctrine could not see anything wrong, even if he did tell one thing to one and something else to another. We are not to resist the individual, but the spirit. Take your stand on the Word of God, and resist anything that is not in harmony with God’s Word. Paul says, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” — Romans 16:17.
Let us obey God, and any spirit that is out sowing discord is to be avoided, and all those who will avoid that delusion by resisting it will find themselves happy and free. Others may receive it on account of fair speeches and probably a little crying, and pretty soon they will find themselves all muddled up, not knowing where they are. Again, the thing that is an abomination unto God we do not need to be afraid to resist. “And he that soweth discord among brethren.” — Proverbs 6:19. God says it is abomination. Let us resist everything God says resist. It is for our own soul’s benefit and the benefit of others to resist the devil. Some of the dear saints are so conscientious that they let the devil accuse them and get them down in their experience when nothing is wrong, only they failed to “resist the devil.” We might think some one has a better experience than we have; then the devil insist that we are not right. Then if one does not stop to examine his life by the Word, and just receives the accusation, he will get in doubts and lose victory and perhaps lose all the grace he ever had.
Brethren, measure your lives by the Word and do not let the devil accuse you when you have done your duty, and leave the results with God. The saints have been imposed upon in some places by would-be preachers. They come with a few tracts and a roll of Trumpets, and perhaps lie around and sleep and eat and want to hold meeting. Of course you have no fellowship with them, but the devil whispers, The wrong is with you. As he keeps accusing you, you try to fellowship them, keeping in their company. All they do is to bring reproach on the cause of Christ. At last you find why you could not fellowship them. It was because they were not in God’s order. Certainly we should be very careful not to accuse falsely, but remember fellowship is not something we make, but it is divine; hence it comes from God. God in you and God in me will recognize himself. God wants us to have enough of his grace that, when such people come along, we can tell them there is no fellowship and it is useless to try to work up fellowship. This will save us much trouble, besides preventing a reproach on Christ’s cause. You need not let the devil accuse you and say that you did not have love. Truly we must have love, but true love to God and man will cause us to be true to the souls of men and also true to God by obeying his Word. Praise God for the truth that makes us free. “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Let every saint be up and doing so that the work may move forward. The devil is too wise to come to a saint of God and suggest to him to kill some one, or steal something, or get drunk, but he comes by the way of discouragements, etc. If he can succeed in getting us discouraged, he has gained a victory; if he can get us to doubt or find fault with our brother or sister, the next thing we know he has us back in sin. What should we do? “Resist the devil.” Some might ask, Do discouragements come from the devil? Certainly, that is their source. They do not come from God, for he says: “Rejoice and be exceeding glad,” “Be of good cheer,” “Let not your heart be troubled.” Paul says, “Rejoice always, and again I say, Rejoice.” From the foregoing scriptures we would conclude that Christ would not discourage any one. Dear one, if you are discouraged, resist the enemy of your soul and exercise faith in Christ and he will carry you through. The sectarian world does not like to hear the devil’s name mentioned, but the Bible tells us there is a devil, and it tells us to resist him. If we obey this command we will be kept free: if we disobey, it will cause us trouble. If you have not done your duty, do not try to put it off on the devil, but confess to Christ and meet the requirements in the Word of God, get right, resist the devil, and continue in the right. An old saying is, “If the devil gets you into trouble once, shame on the devil; but if he gets you into trouble twice, shame on you.” Amen.
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Grand Junction Camp-Meeting.
The camp-meeting of the church of God held at Grand Junction, Michigan, June 14-23, 1901, was truly a feast to our souls. About twenty-five of the Lord’s ministers were in attendance, nearly all of whom remained throughout the meeting. The Word of God went forth, not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but “in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” God’s approval rested upon the same, insomuch that many souls were converted and sanctified and bodies healed, for which we give God all the praise and glory.
One sister had been severely afflicted with consumption of the stomach and bowels for many months, much of the time be unable to speak above a whisper. The doctors gave her up to die, even stating that she could not live ten days. She was carried to the meeting on a cot in a helpless and emaciated condition. After surrendering herself fully to God and receiving the experience of entire sanctification, her faith grasped the promises of God’s Word for the healing of her body. She arose immediately and walked unassisted about the camp-grounds, shouting and praising God, and testifying to his wonderful healing power to a large crowd of people who gathered around. The hearts of sinners were deeply touched with conviction on beholding this manifestation of God’s miraculous healing power. Next day she was buried in the sacred ordinance of immersion and came forth from the watery grave filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, testifying with shouts and praises that God had indeed made her entirely well. There were other remarkable cases of healing. Several baptismal services were held. The ordinances of the house of God were observed, many happy saints participating. Sweet unity and harmony prevailed throughout the meeting, and we feel assured that the ministers and gospel workers go forth into the vineyard of the Master better fitted and qualified to fight the battles of the Lord than heretofore.
F. G. Smith.
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“The Reward of His Hands.”
By R. Rothman.
The love of God “rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.” It always does a child of God good to learn that men and women are finding the way of truth and life and walking therein. It is pleasant to look at only the bright side of the picture, and to meditate on the “faithful of the land.” But God is not only love; he is also justice; and to keep well balanced we must consider his justice as well as his love. Too much of the preaching in the popular churches of to-day is concerning the good of God. The result is that people have lost much of the fear of God which is the “beginning of wisdom.” They look upon God as a Being of such infinite love that he will not punish. We are glad we know by personal experience that the love of God is the most precious thing that mortal can ever enjoy; but just now we believe it profitable to consider the justice of God in his dealings with those who despise his written Word, and set at naught his counsels.
The past few generations have been noted for what is called “free thought.” Men have cast aside reverence for things which their fathers revered; the Bible has been criticized from every standpoint and set aside as false by those who occupy the place of supposed defenders of its sacred laws. Germany has been the hot-bed of this “free thought” foolishness of men, while England and other English-speaking nations have followed her example to some extent. Men have spent the best parts of their lives to prove the Bible untrue, and to destroy the foundation of the belief of Christians. They have not succeeded in this; for God’s Word will forever remain as unchanging truth; but they have succeeded in poisoning the minds of a great many people. These countries that have sown the seeds of infidelity are now reaping the “reward of their hands,” fulfilling Isaiah 3:11 — “Woe unto the wicked! It shall be ill with him; for the reward of his hands shall be given him.” The Word declares that men must reap what they sow. The following clipping from the “Interior” will prove that God’s Word on this line is being verified:
“An unfavorable, and from a human view-point, a very discouraging view of the present religious condition and future religious prospect of England is expressed by Mr. Spurgeon, who has never been supposed to possess a prejudice capable of distorting his vision. He expresses the opinion that as Germany became skeptical and infidel by the influence of her preachers, so England is fast becoming, under the influence of her professedly religious teachers. He supports his assertion by the declaration that attendance upon religious worship on the Sabbath has declined to such an extent that church capable of seating large congregations are now attended by a small number of people, and that the old and hopeful reverence for holy things is rapidly disappearing. These results he attributes to the undiluted skepticism which has been scattered from the pulpits, and has produced its fruit among the people, the preacher, perhaps, never intending to do the evil which they have done by the promulgation of a new theology, and which they never can undo. The places which the preaching of the old gospel filled, the preaching of the new has emptied. This is certainly a dark picture. It would be discouraging if the Church of Christ had not emerged from darker clouds, ‘terrible as an army with banners.’
Mr. Spurgeon’s sources of information are ample, he is not apt to speak unadvisedly, and we must accept his statements until they are contradicted upon reliable authority, as we hope they can be.”
We know that all such false theology is considered in the Bible as Babylonish confusion, and the church of God is entirely separate from all such. What the Lord is doing in these days is getting the people to understand that he has nothing in common with these “new theology” preachers, nor with their so-called churches. He says to all his saved children entangled in the meshes of these false religions, “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” — Revelation 18:4, 5.
The signs of the times indicate very plainly that this world is drawing to its close. It seems that people are more free to scoff at the holy Word of God than ever before. Thousands and millions of papers are being circulated to spread unholy ideas. People scoff at the sacred truths of God, until even the wise men of this world are becoming alarmed at the prevalent ungodliness. 2nd Peter 3:3 prophesies of such a time as we are now living in. “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts.” The following clipping from the Chicago Daily News should make those tremble who have at heart the prosperity of our native land.
“The indications of the times are that we are becoming a nation of scoffers, an aggregation of people to whom little is sacred. Our society respects nothing so much as flatulent scandals; our pulpits are too often filled with men who hide the Creator behind tapestries of sensationalism, and our press runs riot in excess of sneers at what good men and women have been taught were the highest virtues of humanity. Religion, the Bible, the purest affections, the best of ambitions, domestic life in all its phases, the best things of the past, the noblest possibilities of the future, sin and sorrow, death, the grave, the here-after, are made to serve the witless purposes of men to whom notoriety, however won, is the climax of their ambition. From reasoning and reasonable people we descend to mountebanks and jugglers, and worship clowns for their wisdom and monkeys for their evolutions. If such a people are to perpetuate a nation, the era of nonsense will prevail, and every man must, to be in fashion, have his jester at his back, or go into exile and isolation.”
The God who destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, who punished the Israelites with dire evils time and time again, the God who suffers long but will not hold his anger forever, is looking down upon these doings, and he will revenge himself of his enemies some day — perhaps sooner than any of us think. He says: “How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? And the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my Spirit unto you, I will make known my Words unto you. Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; but ye have set at naught all my counsel, and would none of my reproof; I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; when your fear cometh as a desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then they shall call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord: they would none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. But whoso harkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.” — Proverbs 1:22-33.
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News from the Field.
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We are happy in the Lord to-day; praise his name! We have met with trials, for which we praise God, as they have been the means in his hands of drawing us nearer to him.
Through the kindness of Brother Helm, who loaned us his tent for a month, we are now engaged in a tabernacle-meeting here in the city with Brother and Sister Vail and Sister Rutty. Any brother or sister passing this way will find a welcome among us. Take street-car at any depot for Transfer Station, then ask for an Oakland transfer. Get off Oakland car at Summer Street, first house south, and you will no doubt find us.
W. R. Duncan.
Topeka, Kansas, June 19.
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After coming from Kentucky to Illinois, about the holidays, we were home until February. Since then we have been almost constantly in the work, except a week we spent at home before going into tabernacle work. We held meetings at different places in central Illinois and one near Downing, Missouri. Since May 24 we have been assisting in tabernacle-meetings and are now at Gibson City, Illinois, in company with Brother A. S. Kriebel, his father, Millie Kirchner, and Harry Tyler. The last mentioned brother expects soon to assist Brother Davidson in the same work. We do not know what God will do here yet. He has blessed us with different meetings in the preaching of his Word. While there are a great many wayside, stony, and thorny-ground hearers, yet, thank God! The seed has been sown in some good ground and is bringing forth fruit unto God. In this place some are now interested in the truth, but many are joined to their idols. There are nine sects here in a population of about three thousand people. Any one wishing to write to us, address us here or at Moundsville, West Virginia. We will be here for some time yet.
W. H. and Anna Cheatham.
Gibson City, Illinois, June 22.
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Once more I can report victory in Jesus’ name, and the peaceful presence of the Holy Spirit. The Lord has been teaching me some precious lessons on humility, for which I praise his name. I am at present engaged in a good meeting at this place. The congregations are small, but God is with us. I believe there will be good seed sown here. Let God’s people pray that a church may be planted at Lisbon. After this meeting I go to Duluth, Minnesota where I shall work with my hands. I would say to those expecting my help in camp and grove meetings that I will not be able to come. Circumstances will not permit. Brethren, please pray that God may keep me saved.
A. J. Poulson.
521 Central Avenue,
West Duluth, Minnesota.
Lisbon, North Dakota, June 26.
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I am glad to say that I am still in the work and service of the Lord. I came to this vicinity about the 13th of May and preached four or five weeks in different places in Whitwell. This is a new field, and there seems to be some honest souls here. In the town there is much formality. There are five or six different sects, and that many secret orders which are getting more of the attention of the people than the worship of the Lord. A great work could be done here. If any desire to come here and work, let them write to Brother J. M. Turner, Whitwell, Tennessee. I intend to return through Alabama to western Tennessee and in company with Brother Ford, begin meeting at Ruth about the 4th or 5th of July, after which we expect to go on to McNairy County and begin meeting about the 15th of July near Leapwood.
N. E. Setser,
Ruth, Tennessee.
Victoria, Tennessee, June 26.
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Dear Saints in Colorado: The gospel tabernacle has been ordered at the factory, size 30 X 50 feet, with two center poles, ropes, stakes, and all complete, new, to be set up in this city when finished and paid for. Thirty-nine dollars have been paid for it. About twenty-five dollars more are promised. Now, dear ones, pray God to supply the balance of the means, and that he direct some of his ministers to go with the tabernacle. The first tabernacle-meeting will be held in this city, the next in Denver, and the next at Evans, Colorado, D. V.; though there may be some changes, by having some meetings between those already stated. The Evans meeting is wanted about September 1.
R. W. Swinburn.
1004 South Sierra Madre Street,
Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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We are glad to say the burden that rested upon us a few weeks ago and threatened to keep us from the ministry has been lifted all but about $15.00, which will not need to be paid till the first of August. So I have been constantly in the gospel work. The past two months have been the most precious, busy, and profitable of all my life. In our rounds we have visited the churches at Graydon Springs, Ashgrove, Carthage, and Webb City, Missouri; Atlanta, Winfields, Arkansas City, Wichita, Neosho Falls, Chanute, and Pittsburg, Kansas, stopping from one to several days with each church. We have seen many saved, sanctified, and healed. Most of these churches seem to be progressing, and all are anxious for a forward move and are sick and tired of formality and compromise. We believe that the western saints are ready for a general forward move for God, and the coming camp-meeting promises to be the largest and best ever held in this country. There is a good demand for clean, uncompromising, Holy Ghost workers, both for field and pastoral work.
Our last meeting was held near Altoona, Kansas in a school house in a busy farming country. It was well attended for ten days and the best of interest given. A few were saved, the church encouraged, and prejudice was swept away. The last Sunday was one of old-time melting power. Brother J. J. Redman was with us during the first of the meeting, but was called home. Brothers Kreutz and Brown came to our assistance and were used of God. After the close of that meeting we went to Pittsburg to assist Sister Shipley in a meeting there for a few days. We are now on our way to La Fontaine, Kansas to assist Brothers Kreutz and Brown in a meeting there. Remember us in your prayers, dear ones, that God may keep us humble and ever doing his blessed will.
W. J. Henry.
Springfield, Missouri.
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We are glad to again report victory in our souls through the precious name of Jesus, the lowly Lamb of God. We are not idle but are kept busy in the gospel work of the Lord in this part of his great vineyard. We are still pushing the battle to the front and the Lord is with us in power. We have moved to another part of the city. The address now is 926 Washington Street. Our hall is now located right on the border of what is known here as Chinatown. Here are thousands of Chinese, and full-fledged Asiatic heathenism and idolatry-worship is practiced and carried on. We are stepping out upon the promise given in Psalms 2:8: “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.” The saints here are poor in this world’s good. We are just trusting Father for everything needful in this work, and to him be all the glory.
The pure Word is going forth in power and demonstration of the Spirit, and conviction rest upon the people. Praise God for the honest ones who are coming out, and who, we believe, will make bright and shining lights for God, and stand for time and eternity! The devil has been stirred since we started the meeting in this new neighborhood. There are three sectarian churches not far from the hall, and the sect preachers are doing all in their power to keep their members from coming to the little mission hall, where Christ is all his fullness is held up as a Savior who is able to save to the uttermost all who will come unto him, and where the whole counsel of God is declared. They tell the people there is no such thing as holiness in this world, and have even gone so far as to appoint committees to arrange to have one of their worldly entertainments every night this week in their churches; but God’s hand is upon this work, and he is prospering it. All power in heaven and earth are his. Praise his dear name!
Truly we are living in perilous times, when men are lovers of their own selves and of pleasure more than lovers of God; but there are a few dear, honest souls in this dark and wicked city, and God is gathering them up and placing them in the body as it pleases him. They are washing their robes and making them white in the blood of the lamb and preparing to meet them when he shall appear in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, when they shall be caught up to meet him, and forever to be with the Lord. “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” — Colossians 3:1-4.
We shall be glad to have the saints living in this vicinity attend the meetings. We also ask an interest in the prayers of the saints everywhere. Our address is 613 Post Street.
Carrie M. Maggart.
San Francisco, California, June 20.
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Testimonies
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I have left all to follow Jesus, who has placed my feet upon the solid rock. I have taken Christ for my Physician and find him to be just what he has promised to be to those that put their trust in him. I can not praise him enough. Pray that I always keep close to God and obey him in all things.
Miss Phebe N. Burnam.
Onarga, Illinois.
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God has saved me and is keeping me free from the evils of this world. I have taken him for my Physician, and am wonderfully healed in soul and body. I have learned that patient, trusting, intelligent prayer brings all blessings. I am trusting in God to send a true minister here. Pray that I may be true and walk in the light God gives me.
Mrs. Louisa Ross.
Catoosa, Indian Territory.
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The Lord has been good to me and is blessing my soul. I have been doing all I could for the rescue of poor perishing souls. Though not in the work all the time, I have been holding meeting nearly every Sunday and Sunday night. As soon as my work is done I will be ready to go wherever the Lord would have me go. Pray that God ever use me to his own glory.
Joseph H. Tull.
West Plains, Missouri.
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I am saved and praising God for all he does for me, and for such a Savior that can help in every time of need. Being in great need I cried to God and he gave me the promise that he would deliver me from what seemed sure death. He showed me how he delivered Daniel and the three Hebrew children. I waited on God and he fulfilled his promise. When sick Jesus heals me. I praise him for his wonderful healing power. He has healed the children at different times. Pray for me.
Lizzie Wagner.
Martinsburg, Pennsylvania.
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I am praising God for the privilege of reading the bright testimonies of God’s dear children. I am rejoicing to know that Jesus has stopped me from traveling the road of sin and is leading me in the narrow way. He has blessed me with an experience of salvation that saves from all sin and sanctifies my nature. Praise his name forever! God is blessing the little church here. We had a glorious ordinance-meeting last Saturday night. Fourteen happy saints took part. It was indeed a feast to my soul. Our Savior says, “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” — John 13:17. It gives happiness to a true follower of Christ to obey the ordinances in the blessed Word. Then, dear ones, since we want to be found faithful when our dear Savior comes, let us not neglect to follow his commands. Pray for me.
Mary S. Barrett.
Olney, Mississippi.
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Jesus sweetly saves my soul and I have that victory over sin which Jesus promises his children who will be faithful. I have taken him for my Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Keeper.
One morning a week ago I awoke at 3 a. m. with a pain in my bowels, which terminated in cholera morbus. I called on my Lord for relief. Leaving off medicine and drugs, I claimed the promises and asked him to stay the disease, which he did in a few hours. I give him the praise. Of course I was quite sick during the day; but the next day I was able to be about my work as usual. For almost two years I have taken Jesus for my Physician. I find him a present help in time of need. We find in his blessed Word many instances where he healed the sick and restored sight to the blind. If we reach out in faith and believe, he is still willing to do these things, being the same yesterday, to-day, and forever. Pray that God keep me delivered from all disease.
Amelia A. Sanders.
Ritchey, Missouri.
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I desire to testify to the goodness of the Lord to me, for truly I believe he has cared for me from my earliest existence down to the present time, and I have the evidence in my soul that he is going to lead me safely home. Though my life has been full of trouble, and some I have loved and trusted have proved untrue, yet my Savior has never forsaken me, but has bound up my broken heart and comforted me with his great love. I was in sectism living an up-and-down life when this light reached me, and I saw that the saints had the most blessed experience of any I had seen, and felt that I would be willing to give up everything to enjoy salvation. So I soon decided to take the narrow way. Now I am rejoicing in a salvation that saves from all sin. Pray that I bring my children up in the fear of the Lord, and discharge my duty in the gospel field.
Martha Staggs.
Salem, Arkansas.
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I praise God that I ever was led out into the light as it is in Christ Jesus. Jesus says: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” Oh, what a freedom in Christ Jesus there is for every child of God! We are no longer weighted down with the things of the world, but are free as the birds of the air, with no care or burdens to bear, for we have given them all over to Jesus. Glory to God! I have been enjoying sweet peace in my soul for over three years, and am happy to know the Lord saves and keeps me from all sin. Oh, how blessed it is to trust in the Great Physician, and not the arm of flesh! May God awaken the world of humanity to their privilege in Christ! I have been afflicted many times, but the Lord is sufficient for every need. Praise his holy name! May God bless all the saints and keep them faithful and true to him. Pray that I be kept humble and low at Jesus’ feet.
Minerva Lamb.
Ward, Kansas.
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Obituaries.
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DALE. — On Thursday, May 30, 1901, in St. Louis, Missouri, our dear brother Walter H. Dale passed away to a brighter and better world. His body was laid to rest in Oklahoma, Louisiana, June 1, 1901, to await the resurrection morn. He was married to Miss Alice Babcock July 27, 1899. Walter had gone to St. Louis for his health when he suddenly became worse. His wife was summoned, but he did not recognize her. May God in his tender mercy comfort her and his mother in the hope of meeting him in heaven. He was a Christian beloved by all. We feel his death, but know our loss is his eternal gain. Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. May the Lord help his dear relatives to meet him in heaven.
Pink Babcock.
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VINCENT — Judd Vincent was born in Vernon, Michigan, August 22, 1862; died May 8, 1901. He was married October 1, 1890, to Miss Minnie Wright, who died three years ago. He leaves a father, mother, three children, two brothers, and quite a large circle of friends and relatives. His death was caused by a severe attack of the grip about two years ago, which resulted in catarrhal consumption. He has been confined to the house since about January 1. About six weeks before his death he was converted, and he continued to grow in the knowledge of spiritual things until the day of his death. Among his last words were, “Pray, I want to go home.” Funeral services by the undersigned. A large congregation, mostly sectarians, listened attentively to the truth.
G. M. Hall.
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AVERY — Cedelia M. Avery was born in Lorain County, Ohio, February 3, 1850; died at North Eagle, Michigan, April 30, 1901. In 1852 she moved with her parents to the state of Iowa, afterwards moving to Eagle, Michigan. She was married to Judson E. Eddy, of Eagle, December 31, 1874. She is survived by a husband, mother, four sisters, and four brothers. Since her marriage she has resided in Michigan, Florida, Alabama, and Missouri. She was a person of strict integrity and a Christian of the highest type. In the death of our sister the cause of Christ has lost a faithful and able advocate, the community a true friend, and the world an upright citizen. Funeral conducted from Revelation 14:13. by the undersigned. A very large congregation assembled.
G. M. Hall.
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VREDENBURG — Mary Charlotte Vredenburg was born in Marion County, Michigan, July 24, 1882; died at Woodburn, Oregon June 19, 1901. Fourteen years ago she came with her parents from Michigan to Woodburn, Oregon, where she resided with her parents until her death. Sister Matie was converted at Woodburn camp-meeting six years ago. Later she failed to walk obediently with God, but was fully restored into grace at the Albany, Oregon camp-meeting two years ago, since which time she has been a faithful child of God. She began to fail in health more than one year ago, and although she was frequently benefited by the prayer of faith in healing, yet she was clearly shown by unmistakable evidence from God, at two different times, that she was going to die. It has been my privilege to be at the bedside of Sister Matie some of the time during her few last days on earth, and her beautiful resignation to the will of God has been an inspiration to my soul. I was with her during her last hours. Among her last words, just before she felt the cold hand of death upon her, she said she believed that Jesus would soon call for her, but the time seemed so long. We told her that as soon as Jesus was ready for her he would call her home. She looked anxiously up at us, and said, “But why does he wait so long?” We sang the hymn, “My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine,” which she appreciated very much; but as we reached the words, “And say when the death dew lies cold on my brow,” we could truly realize that the “death dew” was upon her brow. She said she was cold and requested that they make fire, and wanted to get up and go to the fire. We assured her that it was death that made her so cold. She was then satisfied, and in an hour from that time closed her eyes to this world, and her gentle spirit which had so much desired to depart and be with Jesus left its home of clay and took its flight to glory. She had folded her hands upon her breast and thus fell asleep in Jesus. Her Christian life had been an example of righteousness and patience to all who have been acquainted with her, and she will be missed in her home and the congregation of the people of God; but we all feel resigned to what we know is the sweet will of God.
No one could wish her back, for while the home circle is broken here upon earth and the loss of their loved one is keenly felt in those bereaved hearts, yet all have the assurance that dear Matie is safe in glory, free from the cares and sorrows of earth, and in the presence of Jesus and loved ones gone before. She leaves a father, mother, three brothers, and three sisters, who feel that their loss on earth is Sister Matie’s eternal gain. Funeral services were held on the camp-ground at the Woodburn camp-meeting. Text Philippians 1:23.
J. W. Byers.
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Divine Healing.
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Healed of Typhoid Fever.
Dear Saints of God: I am praising the Lord for the privilege of testifying to what he has done and is still doing for me. He has saved and sanctified me to do his whole will. Praise his name! Not long ago the hand of the enemy was laid heavily upon me and I was afflicted with fever. I had felt the symptoms for some time and continued to pray on in secret to the Lord about them, but I rapidly grew worse. I was hardly able to do my housework. So I told my father I wanted to go to early prayer meeting Sunday morning. As soon as Satan knew I had such a determination I became so much worse that I had to go to bed. After this I was unable to turn over in bed. My father was very uneasy about me and said he would get some medicine for me, as I was so sick. I thoroughly examined my life and found it was entirely hid with Christ in God. Then the Lord whispered sweetly to me that obedience is better than sacrifice. As I could not get an elder, I called for some of the saints. They prayed with me and in obedience to God’s Word (Mark 16:17, 18) laid hands on me. From that very hour I was healed. I arose from bed and walked to the meeting. I give God all the glory. Halleluiah, what a Savior we have! He keeps his children rejoicing in the God of their salvation. When we need him he is always at hand to supply all our needs. I humbly ask an interest in the prayers of God’s saints. Also pray much that my unsaved father may receive the light of God’s Word.
Lula B. Oliver.
Oxford, Alabama.
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The Parable of the Talents.
By J. W. Byers.
“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I know thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou has not strewed: and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strewed. Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” — Matthew 25:14-30.
This parable has a significant meaning, and has been spoken for the practical good of every child of God. Every one of us are in this kingdom and have delivered unto us one or more talents, for which we must give an account at the day of reckoning. There is doubtless much more meaning and many more practical thoughts to be taken from the words of this parable than the writer has yet comprehended; but the stupendous fact of the reckoning day, and the importance of faithfulness to the sacred trust of the precious talents delivered unto us by the Master are a revelation from heaven to me and it is my earnest prayer that these few following thoughts may encourage faithfulness and loyalty in the heart of every one in the kingdom of God.
The man traveling into a far country is Jesus, who was in the world and set up his kingdom here upon earth. He called his own servants and delivered unto them his goods, then straightway took his journey. He went back to heaven to remain for a long time, then to come and reckon with the servants. The long time is this gospel dispensation. His return, will be his second coming and the judgment-day, when every one shall be brought before the “judgment-seat of Christ,” and “receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” — 2nd Corinthians 5:10.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF HIS GOODS.
He “called his own servants.” these are his own. He did not distribute his good to strangers, or sinners. They were such as had become his own, and in whom he had the utmost confidence so that he entrusted to them his goods, to be made use of and increased during the time of his absence. He clearly states that he used much wisdom in the distribution of his goods. His servants did not all have the same degree of ability nor capacity for usefulness, and consequently he gave to each the number of talents “according to his several ability.” These talents are not the natural ability of his servants. While all natural ability may truly be considered as a God given blessing, all such is given through God’s laws of nature, and in many instances possessed by sinners who never make use of such ability for any other purpose than the service of sin, and in every person these natural abilities are gifts which are bestowed regardless of the spiritual condition of the individual. It is evident that God is sometimes glorified in the natural ability and inventive skill, etc., of many individuals who are sinners, but the talents mentioned in this parable are not the natural abilities of the servant of God. Take notice, he gave to every one the number of talents which corresponded with the several ability of each. This several ability signifies their natural ability, and the talents were distributed to each one of them according to their natural ability.
Let us not confuse these talents with natural ability. The talents are the God given abilities and opportunities bestowed upon us through grace, not through nature. Jesus gave to each of his disciples one or more talents, which were his own goods. They were to make use of these talents in the same manner that Jesus himself used them when he was here on earth. He straightway took his journey from this world and left all his goods here in the possession of his servants with which to enrich the world and to increase them by their use until the Lord shall return. It is a scriptural fact that Jesus took his journey, but it is also a scriptural fact that he sent the Holy Spirit to this world to be his executive, and through whom he continues to distribute his talents to his own servants. The disciples were faithful servants during their earthly stewardship, and the cause of the Master prospered and increased through their instrumentality, so that salvation reached multitudes of hearts, to a much greater extent than before Jesus went away. The faithful disciples will reap their reward on the day of reckoning, but what of the talents of the Master since the servants in the early church have ceased their labors? Was it the design of Jesus that the talents should then cease to be used? No, it is evident that as these faithful servants ended their labors on earth others were to take their places and each receive from the Master, through the executive authority of the Holy Spirit, one or more talents, according to their several ability, and thus from generation to generation, from the time of the distribution of the talents to the first servants down to the evening time of the gospel day, the talents must be used and increased until the Lord returns to reckon with his servants. He has had servants upon earth in every century and generation since the morning of the gospel day, and they have perpetuated his work by the possession and use of the Lord’s talents according to the ability of each. Some have had very limited opportunities and abilities, but history records the faithfulness of the servants of the Master in every century. Multitudes have suffered and died by the cruel hand of persecution because of their faithfulness in the use of the talents; but they had “respect unto the recompense of the reward,” and will rejoice in that day. But that which should concern us at this present time is the responsibility of our faithfulness in the use of the talents which have been given to us. An important epoch of the gospel dispensation is upon us, as are responsibilities that few realize at present, which, if fulfilled faithfully, will prove a blessing to the world, an honor to God, and an everlasting reward to us; but if neglected, the awful doom of the poor servant who was unfaithful in the use of his talent! This parable unquestionably applies to us in these last days with as much force as it did to those to whom it was spoken by Jesus.
EACH OF US HAS ONE OR MORE TALENTS.
As true as we are children of God we each have one or more talents to make use of and answer for. No matter how incapable or insignificant we may feel, or what our environments may be, we are in possession of a God-given trust, and can in no case stand excusable before the Lord for the non-use of the same, for he has given us the talent according to our several ability, which makes us responsible. Had he given it to us regardless of our ability, we might excuse ourselves with our inability; but as it is we are all left without excuse. He knows better what we are capable of than we do ourselves, and, therefore, we have nothing to do in the matter but be faithful to our trust, if we ever expect to be approved in the day of rewards. According to the parable, no one has less than one talent. It is not at all probable that any one may know how many he has until the reckoning day; but we all may be assured that we have one, and while it may be that most of us have but one, it makes it all the more necessary that we be diligent in the proper use of that one. The servant that had received the one talent was the one that made the sad mistake of not using it, and consequently lost it and his soul also.
A talent in this parable signifies a certain portion of the Lord’s goods. These goods are the material that constitute the wealth of the kingdom of heaven, which is to be used as a means to the one great end — the salvation of souls and the uplifting of humanity. This material is not the wealth of the natural world; it is the wealth of the kingdom of heaven. It is not our individual salvation; but it is the means of salvation, which must be used by every one of the children of God for the salvation of others. Each of us possesses it to the extent of one talent, which has been bestowed upon us through grace, since we have become children of God. The natural ability of each of the children of God is but the capacity to receive and make use of the God-given ability — the talent. In this manner the natural abilities of the consecrated believer are all brought into use for the purpose of bringing into effect the use of the talents.
“Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorteth, on exhortation. He that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness.” — Romans 12:6-8. “Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man has received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 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 forever and ever. Amen.” — 1st Peter 4:9-11.
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Words of Comfort.
“For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” — Isaiah 57:15.
“Thus saith the Lord, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go. O that thou hadst harkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.” — Isaiah 48:17, 18.
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tiding of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, thy God reigneth! Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.” — Isaiah 52:7, 8. “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord; and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” — Isaiah 54:17.
There is not a person living in the favor of God to-day who, did he call to remembrance the days of misery and restless dissatisfaction while he lived in sin, would not be encouraged at the faithfulness of God. If the Lord has helped us this far, surely we have good ground for believing he will continue to be gracious to the end. “Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged. . . For the Lord shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody.” — Isaiah 51:1-3.
R.
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