The Gospel Trumpet, August 8, 1901

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The Gospel Trumpet

Volume 21, Issue 31, August 8, 1901

(Articles of interest only)

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A Child of the King.

By R. Rothman.

[Written for a faithful co-laborer.]

Dear John, thy face of honor bright

Is like a sentry for the right;

From out thy tender eyes doth shine

The light of Christ’s pure love divine.

Our God thy true heart’s love hath won,

For Christ thou has the race begun;

Vain honor thou dost gladly spurn,

The praise of Christ thy Lord to earn.

No earth-born ruler on his seat

Can make thee grovel at his feet;

For thou are of the noble mold

That can’t be bribed by king or gold.

The poor of earth will call thee blest

When thou dost find eternal rest;

They’ll cherish thee within their heart,

For thou dost ever take their part.

Toil bravely on, for not in vain

Thy tears, thy labor, and thy pain;

Our God each action true doth see,

And hath a crown reserved for thee.

God grant that each of us may fill

The lot that he doth for us will:

Oh, may we e’er watch, work, and pray,

And faithful be from day to day.

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The New Testament Church.

By Alvin J. Ellison.

Chapter 14.

BAPTISM.

          Baptism is an act performed in water, viz., the submerging of the candidate by one who is in possession of the God-given authority to perform said act. Some would vainly teach that this blessed ordinance of God’s house was disannulled at the crucifixion of Christ; but this position we shall show to be extremely absurd, and shall prove that baptism is indeed included in the doctrine of the New Testament church. It was not an Old Testament ordinance, as it would have been were it nailed to the cross at the death of our Savior. Not one time do we find Moses commanding his subjects to be baptized, neither do we find an example of its practice in the entire Old Testament; but the moment we pass over into the “Better Testament,” we are confronted with the baptism of our blessed Savior, who has commanded us to follow his steps. Among his major statements he exclaimed: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” ... Mark 16:16. Moreover, it was among his last words, before his ascension, that he gave his disciples their commission to “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” ... Matthew 28:19, 20.

          It is therefore evident that baptism is an established ordinance of the New Testament church, its observance being commanded by our Savior about forty days after his crucifixion. It is further stated by our Lord that all nations should be taught to observe this blessed ordinance, as is implied in the phrase, “Teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I have commanded you.” Not only was baptism taught by the Lord Jesus, but after his ascension it was both taught and practiced by his holy apostles. On that noted Pentecostal day when the apostles were flooded with holy inspiration from heaven, we find Peter instructing the enquiring Jews thus: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ,” thus carrying out his Lord’s command as set forth in that last great commission as appears in Matthew 28:18-20. As ample proof of its practice after Pentecost, we will refer our readers to a number of such texts as will clearly demonstrate this fact beyond all doubt.

CONVERTS OF PENTECOST DAY.

          “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.” ... Acts 2:41.

THE SAMARITANS.

          “But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” ... Acts 8:12.

CORNELIUS’ HOUSEHOLD.

          “Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord.” ... Acts 10:47, 48.

THE EPHESIANS.

          “And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus; and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” ... Acts 19:1-5.

          These sublime truths as here set forth clearly teach us that baptism forms a major part of the doctrine of the New Testament church. And since the apostles, who practiced this holy ordinance, were under the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit (which was to guide them into all truth), baptism becomes one of the clearest established themes included in the doctrine of the New Testament church ... “the church of God.”

CANDIDATES FOR BAPTISM.

          “But when they believed Philip, preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized.” ... Acts 8:12. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized” ... 2:41. “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” ... Mark 16:16. These scriptures plainly teach us who are proper subjects for baptism.

          “But when they believed” ... “both men and women” (not infants).

          “They that gladly received his word.”

          “He that believeth.”

          By these precious scriptures we learn that only those capable of believing, and not until after they have believed on the Son of God, are proper subjects for baptism. Therefore we are compelled to reject the baptism of infants, since such dark superstition has no foundation in the Word of God.

MODE OF BAPTISM.

          “One Lord, one faith, one baptism.” ... Ephesians 4:5. Though different modes are claimed for baptism, yet we are constrained, as the inspired apostle, to contend for but “one baptism” ... immersion. This one mode of baptism is clearly set forth in the example left on record in the New Testament.

          First, the baptism of Jesus. “And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him.” ... Mark 1:9, 10.

          Second, the eunuch. “And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water . . . And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” We believe these texts to be sufficiently clear, without comment. (For further information on baptism, see book entitled “The Ordinances of the New Testament”).

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HUMILITY.

By William Ebel.

          “Humility is a most excellent grace of the Spirit, and is accompanied with contentment, peace, and submission to the will of God. The sense of weakness of our understanding, which is the effect of humility, is a temper of soul that prepares it for faith; partly as it puts us on a serious consideration of those things which are revealed to us in the Word; partly as it stops all curious inquiries into those things which are unreachable; and principally as it graciously entitles to the promise, ‘God giveth grace to the humble.’ ... 1^st Peter 5:5. This our Savior makes a necessary qualification in all those who shall enter into his kingdom. Matthew 18:3 ... “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Since pride arises out of ignorance, the gospel, to cause in us a lowly sense of our unworthiness, discovers the sinfulness, nakedness, and misery of the human nature, divested of its primitive righteousness. We have the example of our Savior, in whom there is a union of all divine and human perfections, debasing himself to the form of a servant to instruct us to be meek and lowly. Matthew 11:29 ... “Learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart.” Humility is put for an humble, dejected, and low estate.” ... Cruden’s Concordance.

          I believe the above to be a very valuable definition of humility. Since humility is one of the most excellent graces of the Spirit, we can never value its worth too highly, nor can we do too much to gain possession of it. But, praise God, it is attainable, and no one need be without it. Yea, we must all, as children of God, have it ... even be clothed with the same.

          No one can get salvation without having some humility. The sinner must humble himself and be willing to confess his sinfulness, his wrongs, and his helpless condition. If he is too proud to do this, he can not get saved. But by humbling himself he can soon be in that blessed condition where he can accept Jesus as his Savior.

          To keep saved he must keep humble. “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.” ... Colossians 2:6. Only by meeting the conditions day by day will we keep saved. The one who was in sin is now gloriously saved ... He is justified, and all the past is under the precious blood. Yet, as we know, there is the sinful nature to be contended with. We are therefore commanded to go on to perfection ... to seek a pure heart, a heart that is clean from all sin, lust, pride, and all things that are contrary to the divine nature. The one who is thus cleansed, or sanctified, has no elements of carnality or pride in him; he is perfectly pure ... yea, pure even as Christ is pure. Praise God for this blessed condition! The sanctified one now has a dislike for pride and flattery, and has no inclination to take glory to himself. He is in a humble condition. Christ is all and in all; he is nothing in his own sight. He feels his littleness and sees God’s greatness and majesty, and is made to say, “What is man, that thou art mindful of him?” He will be full of gratitude and praise; He will make his boast only in the Lord, and as the humble hear thereof they are made glad. This is the condition of a truly sanctified soul. Praise be to our God!

          Some may ask if we, thus cleansed from all pride, can get more humble. Since we (who are sanctified) are commanded to add to our faith virtue, patience, temperance, godliness, etc., so is it possible to become more humble. Sanctification takes out not only all pride, but also all impatience, ungodliness, and intemperance. Yet Peter tells those that are “elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit,” to add the above named graces to their faith. These graces can be retained only by continual use and addition. If a rich man will retain his riches, he puts his money to work; and thus, by making money, he will retain what he has and gain more. But if he puts his money in a safe and is taking all the time from the same, it will diminish and sooner or later all will be gone. Just so it is with these heavenly graces.

          My brethren, let us never stop seeking this heavenly dove ... humility. Let us say with David: “And I will yet be more . . . Base [humble] in mine own sight,” and with John the Baptist: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” If we would make sure steps heavenward, we must be humble. If we want to be used in the Lord’s vineyard we must be humble ... must feel our nothingness, our dependence upon him. He has no use for any other class of people in his service. We may preach like Paul, and may say many good and nice things; but if we are not in the condition of heart that it is not we, but the grace of God ... it will, after all, be as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. God can and will not use “self.” He chooses the things that are not (that is, those who feel their nothingness, their worthlessness) to confound the things that are.

          We are commanded to seek humility. Zephaniah 2:3 ... “Seek ye the Lord, all ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgments; seek righteousness, seek meekness [German ... humility]: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Here are all the meek of the earth that have wrought judgment commanded to seek humility. Who has wrought judgments? Answer ... “I have commanded my sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, even them that rejoice in my highness.” ... Isaiah 13:3. See Psalms 149:5-9. Those that are executing God’s written Words are his preachers. We see that even the preachers are to seek this grace. Yea, and if any of God’s people need this grace, it is his servants the preachers. Flattery is so strong and will come so forcibly against the one whom God has used in any way, that if he is not very humble he will take of the glory which only belongeth to God. Thus his usefulness will be hindered. He must get free from such an element. Have we not seen those falling whom we esteemed very highly as true instruments in God’s hand? What was the cause of their downfall? “When pride cometh, then cometh shame.” “Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” “Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honor is humility.” We have the cause before us ... pride. Pride was one of the temptations brought to Eve. The serpent told her to eat of the forbidden fruit and she would be wise. She desired to be wise, and we see the result.

          As I have seen and heard of those that get haughty, high-minded, and proud, my heart has cried to God: “Lord, keep me humble!” I have had some tests, but God gave me the grace to humble myself. I also can testify that I am just as willing to do the little things for God as when I first found the precious Savior. Brethren, if we think it too humiliating to distribute tracts, as we did in the past, we are not so humble any more. If we shirk honorable manual labor, provided we have time and are able to engage in the same, we are not humble. If we feel abased at greeting a brother in public, even though he have on his working clothes, we are not humble. God wants true humility ... inward humility, not voluntary, or, as the German has it, “own” humility; I. E., something we manufactured ourselves. “Own” humility will rub off as from a whited wall, and will occasionally show the pride that is underneath. The scripture, “Be clothed with humility,” has reference to the hidden inner man. To put on humility means the same. The inner man ought to put it on, and the result will be, the outer man will act, speak, and think in a humble manner. He will not mind high things, but condescend to men of low estate. He will respect the humble, lowly man; he will have no respect of persons. He will have no choice as to who shall preach, just so he recognizes the voice of Jesus in the preacher. The humble preacher will not feel abased if some one in the congregation prays or testifies in a broken language. He is also just as willing to make his home with the poor as with those that are not. Beloved, I believe the need of God’s holy church on earth to-day is humility. We need an increase of this rare grace. We must humble ourselves in earnest prayer ... or even do as Daniel, who sought the Lord “by prayer and supplication, with fasting.” David said, “I humbled my soul with fasting, and my prayer returned unto mine own bosom.” If we desire success in this divine life, let us be more devoted in earnest secret prayer. If we seek God earnestly, he will help us; he will make us useful and will answer our prayers, and sinners will be saved and the sick healed.

          “By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches, and honor, and life.” ... Proverbs 22:4. “Serving the Lord with all humility of mind.” “Be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering.” “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.” “He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.”

“Humility, thou secret vale,

Unknown to proud in heart,

Where showers of blessing never fail.

And glories ne’er depart.

“Oh, make thy blest abode with me,

Thou angel of the sky;

If I may ever dwell with thee,

My soul shall never die.”

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A Helpful Religion.

A Christian life can not be lived in a corner. If Christ is in us, he can not be hid. The world must see and know that we are Christ’s. Our light must shine, and our power be felt. And “we must make it clear that our religion is one of helpfulness. Help was laid on one who was mighty to save when our salvation was laid on Christ; and the pitiful cry of the heavy-laden to him was, Lord, help us. Men need it now. Involved in sin, tangled in the meshes of worldliness, taken captive by Satan at his will, they want the helping hand of a brother for their rescue. It is for us to give it in his name. The joy of giving it, the joy of helping to save a brother, is the sweetest joy this side of heaven; it is akin to the joy of Christ, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross. Jeanie Dean’s words, in the ‘Heart of MidLothian,’ are, ‘It is not when we sleep soft and make merrily ourselves, that we think on other people’s sufferings. But when the hour of trouble comes to the mind, or to the body, and when the hour of death comes to high or low, then it is not what we have done for ourselves but what we have done for others, that we think on most pleasantly.’” This is the Christian way to live; and, so living, we shall never die.

... Selected.

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To the Young Man.

By Emil Kreutz.

          “A certain man found him, and, behold, he was wandering in the field: and the man asked him, saying, What seekest thou?” ... Genesis 37:15. The first party spoken of in this text is unknown; the second is Joseph, one of the most noble characters of the Bible. His example is safe for every young man to follow. His life is a copy that it would be well forever one to pattern after. Indeed, his life is a model one. In the account we have of him in the Bible we can not place our finger upon a single wrong. He might have used more wisdom in telling his dreams, and thus avoided persecution: but he had them and they were true, and so he thought, of course, he must tell them. He might have been a little inclined to tattle in bringing the evil report of the brethren to the father, but that is only an inference. If there was any real wrong in his life no doubt God would have had it pointed out and brought to light, even as he did other Bible characters.

          We have no account of him from the time of his birth to the time of our text, when we find him at the age of seventeen. Generally about the age of seventeen is when the minds of young men are inclined to be wandering. About that time is when serious thoughts about life begin to come; they wonder what occupation they shall fit themselves for and follow. About that time youthful days and childhood begin to wane, and they begin to think they are men, when they must lay away childish things and act as men. About this time real conviction to become a Christian is more apt to be given them. Many seek the Lord and get saved earlier than this, yet this is a favorable time. “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth,” is the divine command, and the promise to correspond with the command is: “Those that seek me early shall find me.” These apply especially to children and young people. Let me tell you, you will never have a better time to make your peace with God and learn to pattern your life after the divine example, Christ Jesus. The longer you live in sin the stronger you become bound by Satan, and the harder it will be to break loose.

          Let me call your attention to a few thoughts from the text. “A certain man found him [Joseph].” Jesus is called the “Son of man.” Joseph was “wandering in the field.” Jesus says in an explanation of one of his parables: “The field is the world.” Then we come to that all-important question, “What seekest thou?” Oh, that the Spirit of God might take this question and apply it to your heart! “What seekest thou?” Joseph was seeking his brethren, to know their welfare. Have you yet decided in what way you will spend your life? Have you had any really serious thoughts of life yet? We should have some higher and nobler ideal of life than merely to live and have a good time. Solomon tells us that “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” ... Proverbs 4:7. “If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. . . Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.” ... Proverbs 2:4-9. “He that winneth souls is wise.” Could there be a nobler work than lifting up the fallen and rescuing them from the pits of iniquity, seeking out the lost sheep, and laboring for the welfare of God’s people? Could you seek for anything that would be more paying ... a treasure in heaven that would be immortal? “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” ... Daniel 12:3. Immortality has to be sought for by “patient continuance in well-doing.” ... Romans 2:7. Well what seekest thou now? And what wilt thou seek after? See the “one thing” David sought for. Psalms 27:4, 5; Paul ... Philippians 3:13, 14. Take Paul’s advice to Timothy (2^nd Timothy 2:22; 1^st Timothy 6:9-12), and be wise.

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The Best Attested Fact of History.

          The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the best attested fact of history. All explanations, except the simple and natural one that he arose from the dead and ascended into heaven, dissolve one after the other in the clear light of calm, cogent, impartial examination. One after the other they have offered themselves, been tested, been cast away as worthless ... then theory of deliberate imposture, that the disciples hid the body and invented the fiction of a resurrection; the theory of suspended animation, that Jesus did not die but was resuscitated after he was taken from the cross: the theory of spiritual hallucination, that the eagerly expectant disciples created out of their hopes the substantial vision of a risen Lord; the theory of a myth, that little by little the spiritual confidence of the more exalted natures in the immortal influence of their Master was perverted in grosser minds into a belief in a material resurrection; these theories have been successively propounded by unbelief, and successively rejected even by unbelief itself. There is not one of them that can be called a living opinion to-day. There are but two; one that of the reverent skepticism which declares a resurrection impossible, but frankly confesses itself unable to account for the marvelous history that has proceeded from the tomb of a dead Christ; and that of Christian faith, which believes that Christ “was crucified, dead and buried; the third day he rose from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God, the Father; from whence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.” This faith has won its victory through centuries of battle, over active opposition or inert doubt. It won the belief of the disciples in spite of their settled and hopeless despair. It won the assent of Jews, revolutionizing the fundamental conception both of the Messiah and his kingdom. It won the assent of Greek and Roman, in spite of a sneering materialistic infidelity more callous than any skepticism of modern times. It created a church; gave to the world a new day of sacred rest; inspired humanity with a new worship; changed the very features of its civilization. The world’s birth dates from the day of Christ’s resurrection. This battle has been fought: it is a waste of time to fight it over again.

... Selected.

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“Search the Scriptures.”

By Eva M. Wray.

          I have lately felt much moved to write concerning the Old Testament, or “the scriptures,” as New Testament writers usually spoke of it. Many say they do not care to read the Old Testament; that the New is intended for people of the gospel dispensation, and that there is enough in it to save our souls. While this is true (I do not wish to depreciate the New, which is the gospel of our blessed Savior Jesus Christ), still, we should not fail to appreciate the Old. “It is written [in the Old Testament], Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” ... Matthew 4:4. We find Paul in the year sixty-six, thirty-three years after Christ’s ascension, still teaching that “the holy scriptures. . . Are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus,” and that “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.” ... 2^nd Timothy 3:15-17. So we see through Paul that the very essence of the gospel, as it were, it being before the grievous wolves of the apostasy had entered among the flock, he taught the old scriptures in connection with the new.

          “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” ... Romans 15:4. Our Savior left the command, “Search the scriptures.” ... John 5:39. And Peter says concerning the scriptures: “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” ... 2^nd Peter 1:21. I tell you, it is wonderful to read of the God of the universe, of whom the angels said in Revelation: “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty.” In olden times he came down and talked with finite man, and was his ruler and adviser and king for many hundred years, until he was rejected for an earthly king. Yet after he was unwisely rejected, he still owned them as his people and continued to show mercy to their iniquities. All through the Old Testament we find wonderful prophesies and promises to the children of men, which are wonderfully fulfilled in the New. So let us not be partial within ourselves, but take the whole Bible as our lamp and guide, as God intended that we should, and thereby receive all the blessings contained therein.

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“Is We Free?”

          The following account of how a Negro slave obtained her freedom is such a good illustration of salvation by faith that we give it to the readers. The sinner who has repented of his sins is in a condition to be pardoned by faith, in accordance with “Repent and believe the gospel.” The gospel is the glorious emancipation proclamation that issues to all the sons of Adam. Deliverance from sin is purchased for all the world; but if remains for man to choose the same. He may have it if he wills and if he turns from the path of sin; but if he chooses to remain with his old master, the gospel message will do him no good. The Negro woman was desirous of her freedom and was therefore in condition to accept the same.

          “According to your faith, be it unto you.” ... Matthew 9:29.

          A northern lady, traveling through the South in a private carriage, one or two years after the proclamation of emancipation had been issued, chanced to be detained for the night in a little country inn, which stood so far from the usual lines of travel, that it was evident a guest was very seldom entertained there. She was shown into a room to prepare for tea, which was as full of dust as though it had not been entered or disturbed for years. She requested some attendance: and a poor, wretched-looking colored woman was sent to her, with no apparent life or energy, nothing but utter listlessness and indifference expressed in every movement. After watching her useless performances for a few minutes, the lady said:

          “Aunty, I am from the North, and I am not used to having things this way at all. Now, you know, we northerners set your people free, and I think you ought to try and make things comfortable for us when we come among you. Just see if you can not make this room a little cleaner while I go down to tea.”

          Saying this, the lady left the room. She returned in about an hour and found, to her astonishment, the dusty room transformed into a picture of neatness. But more astonishing even than the transformation in the room was the transformation in the woman herself. She stood there, looking inches taller. Life and energy were in every muscle and every movement. Her eyes flashed fire. She looked like a new creature. The lady began to thank her for the change she had made in her room; but the woman interrupted her with the eager question,

          “O missus! Is we free?”

          “Of course you are,” replied the lady.

          “O missus! Is you sure?” urged the woman with intensest eagerness.

          “Certainly I am sure,” answered the lady. “Did you not know it?”

          “Well,” said the woman, “we heard tell as how we was free, and we asked master, and he ‘lowed we wasn’t, and so we was afraid to go. And then we heard tell again, and we went to the cunnel, and he ‘lowed we better stay with ole massa. And so we’s just been off an on. Sometimes we’s hope we was free, and then, again, we’d think we wasn’t. But now, missus, if you is sure we is free, won’t you tell me all about it?”

          Seeing this was a case of real need, the woman took the pains to explain the whole thing to the poor woman  ... all about the war, and the northern army, and Abraham Lincoln, and his Proclamation of Emancipation, and the present freedom.

          The poor slave listened with most intense eagerness. She heard the good news. She believed it; and when the story was ended she walked out of the room with an air of the utmost independence, saying as she went: “I’se free! I ain’t a-going to stay with ole massa any longer!”

          She had at last received her freedom, and she had received it by faith. The government had declared her to be free long before; but this had not availed her, because she had never yet believed in this declaration. The good news had not profited her, not being mixed with faith in the one who heard it. Hebrews 4:2, 3. But now she believed; and believing, she dared to reckon herself to be free; and this not because of any change in herself or her surroundings, not because of any feelings or emotions of her own heart, but because she had confidence in the word of another who had come to her, proclaiming the good news of her freedom.

          How many professors of religion are “off and on,” like this woman! Some times they hope they are free, and then again they think they are not. And so they just “stay with ole massa.” They look at their feelings rather than at the Word of God. Notice, that when this woman really believed the message, she knew that she was free. And so, when we really believe the gospel, we know that we are free. Fulfilling the conditions, we have a right to claim the promises. She received the “witness of men.” If we receive the witness of men, “the witness of God is greater.” ... 1^st John 5:9. And what a change it made in her life! How happy she was! What made her so? Did she look into her own heart to find some happy feelings so that she could know she was free? No; she believed the message of another, and it filled her soul with gladness. Can you doubt that she went forth with eager footsteps to tell the story to others, and confidently to declare that she knew she was free? Need I make further application? In a hundred different messages God has declared to us our freedom. “Through this man,” he says, “is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins; and by him all that believe [I. E. believe this forgiveness] are justified from all things, for which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” ... Acts 13:38, 39; 10:43. Over and over you have heard this message. Sabbath after Sabbath it has been proclaimed to your ears. But have you ever yet believed it? Are you consciously free?

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The Holy Spirit.

By R. Rothman.

          The great central truth of the Christian religion is God living in man. When we think of the Lord of the universe, through the Holy Spirit, coming into man and living and moving in him, it seems almost too great a thought to be grasped. It is a mystery. Paul says concerning this fact: “Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfill the Word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” ... Colossians 1:25-27.

          Since we see it is the inestimable privilege of the children of God to have him dwelling in their hearts, we feel impressed to call attention to a few scriptures setting forth some of the attributes of this heavenly Guest. This truth is held up very little in the popular religions of the day. Many so-called Christian ministers fight holiness, saying we can not live free from sin. Since their experience reaches no higher than their belief, they are of course sinners in the sight of God and in their own consciousness. Therefore it is not strange that this glorious truth is to them as a dead letter. God does not promise to dwell in the hearts of sinners.

          The Holy Spirit dwells in his saints: “Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world [sinners] can not receive, because it seeth him not, neither knowest him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” ... John 14:17. “And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.” ... 1^st Corinthians 14:25.

          The glorious Gift of God is eternal. From everlasting to everlasting is the Spirit that lives within the people of God. What an inspiring thought! Should we not do all we can to welcome and retain him? “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” ... Hebrews 9:14. Jesus said at one time: “Because I live [forever], ye shall live also.”

          The Spirit is omnipresent: “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee. For thou has possessed my reins: thou has covered me in my mother’s womb.” ... Psalms 139:7-13. The fact that the Holy Spirit we possess is at the same time everywhere present should strengthen our faith in the power of prayer.

          The Holy Spirit is omnipotent. It was the Spirit of God in Paul that made him the powerful preacher that he was: “Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.” ... Romans 15:19. Our lives will be effective to the salvation of men and women to the extent that we allow the Spirit of God in us to work. Let us not limit the power of God, but please him by having faith that he will do in us more than we ask or think.

          The Spirit of God is the source of miraculous power. The apostles did not for a moment consent to receive praise for what God did in them. They gave him the glory and in this way secured more of the power of God. Jesus said: “But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.” ... Matthew 12:28. There are many kinds of healings and divers workings of miracles, but divine healing and divine working of miracles are through the Holy Spirit.

          The Spirit is our teacher ... “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” ... John 14:26. What a wonderful privilege it is to have God for our teacher! How the blessed Bible becomes a book “sweet to our taste” and precious to our souls, when the light of inspiration shines upon it and into our hearts! Books of earth seem as dross to gold, in comparison with the Bible. When the Spirit teaches us something we remember it. Who would not forsake his wickedness and live for God, to enjoy the blessing of having Him whose wisdom formed the earth and its countless wonders, to teach him? “Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.” ... Proverbs 1:23.

          The Spirit convicts sinners ... “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” ... John 16:8-11. Did preachers and teachers not have the Holy Spirit to do his office work of convicting those needing it, they would not make a success of their work. It is hard to convince people through their intellect that they need Christ; there is hope only when the Holy Spirit begins to melt their hearts and to show them their wretched condition, and draws them heavenward. Hence the need of being ever “filled with the Spirit.”

          The Holy Spirit is the glorious comforter of the church: “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” ... John 14:18. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” ... 2^nd Corinthians 1:3, 4. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit being one, it is not possible to define the attributes of one separate from the other two persons of the Godhead.

          Who can have the blessed Holy Spirit, this unspeakable gift? Answer ... “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” ... Acts 2:38, 29. Repentance brings us into a condition to receive forgiveness of sins and a new birth, after which the Holy Spirit is given to us on condition of consecrating ourselves to God, with a willingness to do his bidding. “And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.” ... Acts 5:32. The Holy Spirit is, of course, received by faith ... “That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” ... Galatians 3:14.

          Dear ones, is Christ within you a well of water springing up unto everlasting life? Do you count all other things worthless in comparison with possessing the Spirit within you? Are you willing to suffer in order to walk with God? Have you learned to “walk in the Spirit,” so that God’s presence makes your life bright? We need to advance in the divine life continually, or else we will go backward. God grant that we all may “walk humbly with our God,” so that the power of the Highest may truly be manifested among us, until those that come among us may see that God is in us of a truth. Amen.

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An Old Book.

          Few of us ever stop to think how old the Bible is. Yet “the Scriptures are believed by candid critics to contain the most ancient forms of truth now known to men.” With the aid of chronological tables, any one may easily make profitable comparisons between the antiquity of the Book and that of other writings and events. The Scriptures contain the only authentic history of the world before the flood. We find in the Pentateuch one or two stanzas of poetry composed in the antediluvian period. The Hebrew statutes were enacted a thousand years before Justinian reformed the Roman jurisprudence. In the Bible we have the record of chartered rights secured to the people more than two thousand years before Magna Charta.

          What a sensation would be produced if the first chapter of Genesis should appear for the first time in one of our news-papers to-morrow! Xenophon’s record of the conversation of Socrates, in his “Memorabilia,” seems an old book to us, yet similar topics were discussed in Ecclesiastes six hundred years before. The works of Tacitus, Plutarch, and Quintilian are not modern, yet the books of the New Testament are older than they.

... Selected.

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BEWARE OF ERROR.

          In the name of Jesus we sound out a warning to the dear saints in the West and abroad to beware of error, which the devil is mustering up in these last days to deceive the very elect if it were possible. Hence we know we are in the last days. Since the beginning of time, I presume there never was as many deceptive doctrines of the devil in the land to deceive the pure in heart as there is now. Then we need to strive together as never before for the faith of the gospel (Philippians 1:27), and despise everything which tends to divide and work discord among the brethren and give it no place; no, not for a moment, as God hates such things. Proverbs 6:16-20. The nearer the devil can get one to the truth and yet have him deny the very cleansing wrought by the Holy Ghost in our heart and body, the better he is pleased. He will label it as light from God ... “God showed me this; the Holy Ghost is my teacher, and I will not be brought under man’s teaching; have gotten out from under priests and popes and am not following man any more. All who do not receive this light are under man, and are not following God’s Word,” etc. Such is the plea of those under a blinding influence of the devil and filled with the spirit of error and division. To try to follow them in their supposed light, my dear brethren, is only to get your souls into trouble, darkness, and confusion. You will at once lose sight of the “one body” of Christ, which you once thought you saw so plainly, and will be found looking for “the church” in the realms of sectism, among holiness movements, alliances, or late advocates of the Zinzendorf theory, who try to locate carnality in the flesh only. These try to make a great show in the flesh, and neglect the cleansing and preserving of spirit, soul, and body (1^st Thessalonians 5:23) in sanctification. From such withdraw thyself, dear saints of God, and do not allow yourselves to be found investigating their blinding theory, as the ministers of God have thoroughly examined it, and again warn you to let this deception alone, for the safety of your precious souls.

          We have with us a tract of recent birth compiled by J. A. Bernard of Spokane, Washington, headed: “Fifty scriptural reasons why sin does not exist in the heart after regeneration, or justification.” The intent of this tract is to prove that carnality, or the carnal nature, is not in the heart of the child or justified person. The tract would have been better labeled if called: “Fifty quibbling against the plain teaching of God’s precious Word.” The man mentioned above, R. H. Craig, and W. J. Baldwin feign to be preachers, but have never been recognized as ministers of God in this precious evening reformation. They teach this deception, as also do J. C. Benton and wife of 2215 Broadway, Spokane, who once held the confidence of many of the saints. It becomes our duty now to warn you against these, and all others who advocate this error. Do not receive them as children of God until they repent and publicly renounce their heresy. Beware of their tracts and letters, as you always find those under error seeking sympathy, and never feeling that they were dealt with rightly or had a fair hearing. So they want each of the saints to examine them and their false doctrine. They will say they have only the Word of God (as does every false prophet), and that it will hurt no one to investigate God’s Word. But, dear saints of God, if you would keep your souls out of trouble and in the unity of the Spirit and faith in the one body, let such things alone. Your faithful servants in the one body,

James B. Peterman. J. C. Peterman.

O. A. Chapman. George W. Bailey.

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SAVED FROM SPIRITUALISM.

22 South May Street, Chicago, Illinois.

          I feel that it will be to the glory of God to tell what the Lord has done for me. He showed me my lost condition and saved me from the awful deluded state of a spiritualistic medium. For a time I was honest and sincere in this deception. There were times when I longed to be free from its terrible powers, yet I did not know where to go to for help, and so just plunged deeper and deeper into its ungodly doctrine, seeking rest and finding only misery and sorrow to my soul.

          Some time ago the Lord whispered to me, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden; and I will give you rest.” I had labored and was heavy-laden, and I realized as never before that the burden would sink me to the depths of hell unless I received immediate help. I cried and he heard me. Praise his dear name! He gives me peace and rest to my soul, that the world can not give.

          Spiritualism is the worst of all the devil’s doctrines imposed upon precious souls to-day. Clairvoyance, clairaudience, palmistry, materialization, trumpet card-reading, slate-writing, and magnetic healing are simply different phases of spiritualism. The devil knew it would be impossible to get anything spiritual in this organization, so he thought he would get as close to it as he could by calling it spiritual-ism. Its proper name is devil’s doctrine; its different phases are only witchcraft, wizard, etc. Some say this doctrine is of late origin. I declare unto you, it is just the same witchcraft as was practiced in the time of Saul, 1058 B. C. Its teachings are corrupt from beginning to end. Some of them are:

          (1.) Free-love; (2.) Marriage is simply a law that pride has built and is not ordained of God; (3.) There was nothing divine in Jesus; he was simply an ordinary man, a medium; he did not shed his blood for the remission of sins; if he had, it could not atone for sin, as there was no virtue in it. (4.) They teach spirit progress after death. The spirit world or plane is divided into spheres, and according to the influential and moral standing, they go to such sphere as they are qualified for. The highest sphere they attain is the seventh. Then they are supposed to be happy, and free to return to earth or another planet at will. Those in the first sphere are called earth-bound spirits. They are supposed to be the murderers and the most wicked. It also is supposed to be the duty of the spirits of higher spheres to teach those in lower spheres how to progress higher. While they assume to teach this, their practice and life is to the reverse. They also teach that they have schools and every advantage in the spirit plane, to teach the infants and ignorant, that they might progress into good, useful spirits. Dear ones, God showed me that all this was of the devil; that now is the accepted time and the day of salvation. I saw that if I did not accept his salvation, peace, and rest, now, I certainly would have no change to progress into it after death. “In the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.” “He that is just, let him be just still.”

          I first became interested in this awful deception through a harmless-looking board about six by eight inches in size, with little pegs in three corners and a pencil in the fourth. Writing-paper was placed on a table, then two of us would each place a hand on the little board and ask questions. Sometimes the answers would be correct. All, as far as I knew of, except myself, decided that it was simply the electricity in our hands that did the work. There was an uncontrollable desire in me from that time on to investigate this unseen power. I later began attending spiritualistic circles, or séances. There, of course, I was told that I would make a medium if I would sit for development. So I began to sit, and I did develop very rapidly. Why! I just became saturated with the very power of the pit. There is something very fascinating about this doctrine, yet there is no satisfaction in it. I was so deceived at one time that I truly believed I talked with my deceased friends; but I awakened to realize that it was not them at all, but the devil, who had transformed himself into their image.

          Dear one, if you are experimenting with these little writing-boards, I entreat of you to stop. It makes no difference how harmless it may look, it is simply a trick of the enemy of your precious souls. Take warning; you see how deep I got into trouble. It is marvelous how the Lord saved me out of it. I want to testify that Jesus not only saves me out of spiritualism and all sin, but that he takes all sin and “isms” out of my life, and by a second work cleanses out the carnal nature. Praise his dear name!

V. Y. Tilden.

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The Rest of Faith.

By R. Rothman.

          “Whom shall he teach knowledge? And whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, . . . Line upon line, line, upon line; here a little, and there a little: for with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest, and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.” ... Isaiah 28:9-12.

          The inspired Word here speaks of a rest. The word “rest” in itself is refreshing to us in these days of hurry and restless energy. It may aptly be said of the American people as a whole that they “go about seeking rest, and find none.” The rich go to the seashore and mountains, and return to their homes very often more exhausted than when they left. The noise and bustle of the cities are making nervous wrecks of thousands. With countless machines to aid him in his work, man still seems to think it necessary to hurry and worry through the livelong day and part of the night. We are living in a remarkably “fast” age. Statistics inform us that the average length of life is fast diminishing. In this we see a fulfillment of God’s Word ... “The wicked are like the troubled sea, when it can not rest.”

          But to God’s people there is a glorious rest promised. Blessed be his name! “This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing.” What is this rest here spoken of? It is the rest of faith. “Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts,” means those who have left the childish state of the Christian experience and have gone on to the glorious state of sanctification ... Christian maturity. The justified person finds it necessary to be tenderly cared for, as a child; he needs his easily-digested food, and must “feel good” all the while, or he becomes discouraged. But those who have gone on to perfection “walk by faith,” and are not dependent on feelings. Their faith is centered in God Almighty, and a constant exercise of faith gives them everlasting joy and peace, whether or not the outward circumstances are favorable. The poet has said, “He that believes is ever blessed.” This is true. With Christ reigning in the heart of the sanctified one, he realizes at all times that he has within him the power of God and victory over the devil, and by faith he draws from God a constant supply of grace to meet all needs. Believing brings the assurance that all is well with him, and he calmly trusts away every trial with the Lord, knowing that all things work together for good to them that love God.

          The Lord treats us as a mother does her child. When a helpless infant, she gives it every attention, and is watchful that it does not fall or get injured in any way. She sees that it gets its proper food and rest. But as the child grows, it becomes necessary to teach it to care for itself. It must learn to walk alone, to defend itself, and supply its own wants as much as possible. Did the mother not pursue this wise course, the child would remain helpless longer than necessary. Just so with our heavenly Father. When first converted he gives us glorious good feelings; lets us taste of the rich food of heaven, and carries us in his arms of love and mercy, as it were. This is a most enjoyable state. But the time comes when he wants us to go on to perfection ... to become men. Now he gives into our possession faith, with which he expects us to learn to walk. Our first steps may be very feeble, but as we keep walking by faith we become continually stronger. The mother has her eye on the child, and should he seem to be falling she is ready to hold him up. So the Lord carefully guards his little ones in their first journeys along faith’s highway. Even though they fall seven times, he is ever ready to raise them; and in the eighth attempt, if they trust and obey him, he may get them upon their feet to stand forever.

          The sectarian world seems to have clung to the baby state as the ideal Christian experience. It will not accept sanctification. An infant is a pleasing sight; but a grown child trying to pass as an infant becomes unseemly. The false teachers of Babylon teach their hearers that it is not possible to live free from sin. So long as one continues to sin he can never enter the rest of God; for “the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it can not rest.” They oppose the doctrine of holiness, and thus put off the rest of God to the life beyond the grave; for holiness is the land of Canaan, the land of rest. It is the glorious privilege of the saints of God to gain the rest of God, since God has blessed us with the truth. Paul says: “He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things. And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” ... Ephesians 4:10-15.

          Were it not that God through the Holy Spirit is willing to teach all his humble, willing children in the way they should go, one would feel hopeless in teaching some truths of the Bible; but we do know that God will lead all in just the way that is best suited to their nature. Sometimes a word or two may help us to grasp the truth that our walk must be by faith, not feeling. Of this we feel sure, that no one can enter the land of rest until he decides to believe God in spite of doubts, feelings, the experiences of others, or any other hindering cause. “And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.” ... Hebrews 3:18, 19; 4:1. Jesus gives a glorious secret concerning finding the rest of God in Matthew 11:28, 29 ... “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”

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Dost Thou Steal?

By J. Grant Anderson.

          There was a time in our world’s history when it was not wrong to steal, there being no law to reveal, hence no knowledge of sin. When the children of Israel left Egypt they borrowed all they could of their neighbors, never expecting to repay. Exodus 12:35. “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.” ... Acts 17:30. Unto the one who is a thief, God says, “Steal no more.” ... Ephesians 4:28. This injunction to the thief is very simple to understand, but in close relation to it is something, I fear, not so well understood. “Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?” ... Romans 2:21.

          In the foregoing scripture more is to be comprehended than simply refraining from taking another’s goods. In the present dispensation we are all preachers; we are laborers together with God. Therefore, thou that preachest a man should be pure, is thy heart pure? Thou that teachest a man should not drink, dost thou drink? Thou that prayeth for God to save fallen men from ruin, dost thou vote for it? Not much has been written or spoken upon this subject; it has been left for individuals to decide. But the time has come when I, by the help of God, will lift my voice against voting to give men power to license men to sell drink to those who endanger my life and my loved ones at home. It has been suggested that teaching upon this line would bring dissension. But it is not so; for he who said, “Steal no more,” also hath said, “Woe unto him that giveth his neighbor drink.” ... Habakkuk 2:15. Some time ago I visited a young man in prison under the sentence of death for murder. He declared his downfall was caused by drink. In a few weeks he suffered the penalty of death. When he stands at the judgment-bar, in the august presence of that mighty throng, and declares that his crimes were caused by rum, methinks I can hear the Judge say, “Woe unto the man who gave his neighbor drink.”

          Some will say they choose the lesser of two evils by voting for the party least corrupt. There is no need of choosing evil, but rather “eschew [shun] evil and do good.” ... 1^st Peter 3:11. When I read the statistics of crime committed each year through drink and when I think of the multitudes who, with pallid cheeks and fainting hearts, await the judgment-day, I exclaim: Oh! Men of God, followers of the Lamb, separate yourselves from that which sends precious souls to hell, and “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” ... Hebrews 12:14.

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News from the Field.

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          Brothers Thomas Carter, J. E. Watts, wife and I closed a meeting the 25^th at Crayton with victory on the Lord’s side. Several consecrated for justification and sanctification, and eleven were baptized. Twenty-four took part in the ordinances of the Lord’s supper and feet-washing. We began meeting near there in a warehouse on the 26^th. Brothers Carter and Watts remained with us over Sunday, then left for Jeffersonville. We will hold meetings here again to-night, then, the Lord willing, I will take train for Eubanks, to attend the assembly-meeting at that place. Dear saints, pray God to give us great success in the assembly-meeting there.

M. N. Roark and Wife.

Carlisle, Kentucky, July 30.

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          In the name of Jesus Christ we can report perfect victory over all the power of the enemy. We recently closed a glorious meeting four miles west of Morehead in which fifteen or eighteen were gloriously saved. Eleven were immersed. This meeting was truly a feast to our souls. We then came back to Morehead and held three meetings, one in the court-house and two in the Baptist meeting-house. Four were saved, three sanctified, and two immersed.

          Sectism is a thing of the past with God’s little ones in Morehead. Kentucky is truly ripe to harvest. We have more calls at present than we can fill. No time for idlers. We are expecting victory here for the Lord. “Thanks be unto God who always causeth us to triumph.” Praise the Lord! God has some few precious souls at this place who have a sweet experience of salvation. May God bless them and help them be faithful to the end. When the dear Lord is through with us here we intend to go south by way of Winchester, Kentucky, and Knoxville, Tennessee. Any one writing may address us as below.

W. A. Sutherland and

W. P. and P. Long.

Morehead, Kentucky.

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          The camp-meeting at Grand Forks was a time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. The attendance was good. Meetings were held in three languages, viz., Scandinavian, German, and English. There were many consecrations. Some had the good testimony that they had been kept sanctified by the power of God since the camp-meeting last year; others had fallen from the grace of God and came back to him with repentance. A number were baptized. This meeting was a real encouragement to the church. I believe it was a time of humbling before God. Brother Thomas Nelson, of Muscatine, Iowa was with us and was used of God in preaching both in English and Scandinavian. This is largely a Scandinavian country. We are glad to see the work of the Lord prospering among them. Many hearts were opened to the Lord to help on the work entrusted to Brother Nelson, viz., the work of printing “Den Evangeliske Pasun.” We trust the church here will not forget their duty in this direction in the future, but remember the Word of the Lord. Proverbs 11:24, 25; 2^nd Corinthians 9:6, 7. Zion is being established in this country, but it is largely by means of holy literature. Hundreds of pounds of papers, tracts, and books have been scattered here, but ten times as much more is needed. There are many open doors here for the gospel. More laborers are needed. We should be glad to hear from any of God’s ministers who are being led to help in the work of the Lord here.

          Since the camp-meeting we have held one meeting near Rolette, Minnesota, in a large barn fitted up for the purpose. One returned to the Lord and one consecrated for sanctification. We also had a baptismal service. We hope to return to that locality for a series of meetings this fall or winter. We are now in company with Brother Gus Neils and wife and Minnie Johnston and are holding a tabernacle-meeting at Rosehill. We expect to go to Langdon next, the Lord willing; then near Cando. Pray for us. Yours in the faith.

C. H. Tubbs.

Rosehill, North Dakota, July 22.

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          After leaving Moundsville at the close of the camp-meeting, I came to Columbia, where I remained nearly a week with my family and the saints there, holding meetings every night. From there I went home to Augusta, where I held meeting two days on my way to the assembly in Macon, where the Lord gave us a great feast in Zion. Five were baptized before we left. I then went on to Atlanta, where a week was spent in the Lord’s service. On July 4 a street meeting was held, which was attended by four or five hundred persons. As there was an excursion to the city on that day, many people from other places were reached who appeared to be deeply touched by the Word of God, and made requests at the close of the service for meetings to be held in their communities. I left there for Anniston, Alabama, where I joined Brother Spence and held a week’s meeting. Three were baptized and the ordinances of feet-washing and the Lord’s supper were observed.

          Returning to Atlanta on July 15, I spent two days making necessary preparations for the meeting in October. Leaving there I went to Pelzer, South Carolina, where my wife had taken the children to visit her mother, and stayed there till Monday the 22^nd, when I left for the Blackville assembly, holding a meeting in Augusta that night. I found the assembly under the guidance of the Spirit, with Brothers Sanford, Green, and Coleman assisting Brother Holman the elder in charge. Some brethren from Augusta had been there on Sunday but had to return home. Some of them and others with them came back the following Sunday. Sisters Edwards and Miller were a great help in the singing. A number of saints from Charleston and two or more from Augusta, Aiken, Summerton, and Savannah, and one each from Summerville and Macon, were present. The Word of God went forth in the power of the Spirit and sin was uncovered, souls convicted, converted, and sanctified to the glory of God. A street-meeting was held Saturday afternoon and was attended by about two hundred persons of both races, some of whom listened attentively to the preaching of the truth. The meetings at night were well attended, the meeting house being filled and many having to remain outside. Five were baptized on Sunday evening, and an ordinance service was held in the afternoon. We praise God for this meeting. Brother Sanford went to Charleston Sunday morning, where Brother Green and I joined him for a few days this week before going to Alabama, if the Lord opens the way. Brother Coleman goes to Summerton, where Brother Holman will follow in a few days, after which Brother Coleman goes to Williamston and Duewest, and Brother Holman to Darlington and other places.

          The meeting in Atlanta is to be held October 18-28, during the time of the fair, when there will be reduced rates on rail-roads. Preparations are being made for a large number of workers, as we feel it to be very important that all who possibly can should make a sacrifice of everything else to attend. I am still praising God for the great benefit derived from meeting the saints at Moundsville. As I go from place to place and see the fields white to the harvest, I see the great necessity of praying the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers, and ask the readers of the Trumpet to unite with us in this prayer.

R. J. Smith.

1127 Sharp Street,

Augusta, Georgia.

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          I am praising God for real victory in my soul over all the power of the enemy. In company with W. A. Hand and N. E. Setser we went to West Tennessee, where we found hearts waiting to receive the precious Word of God in all its fullness. There was a large attendance, and we held three meetings a day. Souls were saved and others were convicted of sin. I pray God he will continue to hold conviction on them until they become willing to meet the conditions and get saved. Some were baptized at the close of the meeting. One solemn feature of the baptizing was to see Mother Ingram sink beneath the waves, after the example of her Savior, at the age of seventy years. Like Simeon of old, this reformation came just in time to take her in, and she is now ready to depart in peace.

          We then went into the adjoining county and held up the pure Word of God. Souls were also saved in this meeting. Others were under conviction but did not yield. At the close of the meeting twelve followed the Lord in baptism. One of the number was a Presbyterian preacher who came out of sectism and took his stand on the Word of God. We closed the meeting with a very precious ordinance-service in which twenty took part in observing the Lord’s supper and the washing of saint’s feet.

          Any minister that is straight can find plenty to do in that country. Any desiring information may write to Brother N. E. Setser, Ruth, Tennessee. Brother Hand and I returned to attend the Hartsells Camp-meeting, Brother N. E. Setser and wife remaining to look after the work of God in that country, and to answer calls for meetings. Pray that God use me to his glory. Your saved brother.

Samuel Ford.

Hartsells, Alabama.

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          We are praising God for victory in our souls and bodies. We left our home on April 25 and went to Bright, Ontario, where we spent three weeks visiting the saints and had the pleasure of seeing one soul get saved. From Bright we went to Shipka. Here Sister Amy Otterbein, of Bright, joined us a few days after we arrived. Then the Lord sent Brothers Moyer and Blaney with the Canada tabernacle and we set it up about half-way between Dashwood and Shipka, two villages quite close together. How we did rejoice when God sent the soldiers to help us in the battle which we had already felt was raging! We felt a heavy burden when we went there, and when the other soldiers arrived they each felt the weight of it. There proved to be a slimy, deceptive, hypocritical spirit in the place which hindered the work. Regardless of the power of the enemy God honored his Word by saving several precious souls. Some believers were sanctified, and God manifested his healing power among us. Although the crooked spirits held their ground, they were rebuked and renounced in the name of the Lord, and God gave us sweeping victory over the power of the enemy. Halleluiah! God has some honest souls in that vicinity who will stand for the truth, although they are surrounded by evil spirits, false doctrines, darkness, and superstition. The devil had made calculations what he would do after we should leave the little flock and go away, but the Chief Shepherd, Jesus, not willing to leave the lambs to the mercy of the wolves and false shepherds, told Brother Blaney to remain there awhile and guard the lambs and feed them, and search for other precious sheep still in the hands of false shepherds. Brother G. P. Tasker of Peepabun went with the tabernacle. At the close of the meeting at Dashwood the tabernacle was shipped to Brother Tasker at New Dundee, where he expected to be joined by Brother D. H. Moyer. Brother Moyer, however, had been called home owing to severe illness in his family. Sister Otterbein was also called home at the close of the meeting. We had contemplated answering some of our calls in the West; but some of the dear saints wrote requesting us to labor with the tabernacle, so we earnestly besought the Lord to give us a clear indication of his will in the matter, which he did. We are now engaged in tabernacle work in company with Brothers G. P. Tasker and D. H. Moyer and Sister S. S. Moyer. God is with us and is blessing us with glorious victory. From here we go to Bright, and from there to the Jordan Harbor camp-meeting. We ask the children of God to pray for the tabernacle work in Canada. Our permanent address is Moundsville, West Virginia. Yours in the battle for God,

Arthur and Emma Tufford.

New Dundee, Ontario, Canada, July 29.

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Testimonies.

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          I am saved and walking in the light that God lets shine upon me. Three years ago I first heard the gospel preached in its purity. I then saw that I had been living in darkness. One year ago I accepted Jesus as my Savior. God in his infinite mercy is still leading, keeping, and strengthening me, both in soul and body. I was afflicted over ten years with different diseases which made me unable to do any hard work. Sometimes I would not be able to be out of bed for quite a while. I promised God if he would heal me I would testify of his wonderful power to save and heal. Praise the Lord, he healed me and gave me strength to do my own work. God is keeping me free from sin. I am trusting him in all things. Pray that I keep humble.

Mrs. Laura I. Thomas.

Deland, Illinois.

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          I am saved and sanctified and praising God for his goodness to me day by day. I was very sick and he healed me. Praise his holy name! It is so sweet, dear one, to trust the Lord for all things in this world and the one to come. Pray that I and my wife ever stand in Christ and the church of God. Amen.

J. A. W. Sanford.

Savannah, Georgia.

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          I wish to testify to the goodness of God to me. I was converted when only ten years old. Last May I was fifty-two years old; yet Jesus has kept and led me all the way. But there was something more I craved for and was reaching after. Seven years ago God revealed to me from on high his church which Jesus built with his own blood. Praise his holy name! I am so thankful that the Gospel Trumpet came to me. It has led me into much of the light. Praise his name! Dear saints, pray that I may receive my hearing. I give all the glory to God.

Mrs. Ruben David.

Murphysboro, Illinois.

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          I can praise God for full salvation. He has saved and sanctified me, and is keeping me day by day free from all sin. Praise his name forever! I was raised in the Lutheran denomination, and thought I was a Christian; but I was badly deceived. I never had enjoyed a real experience of salvation. I thought I wanted to do what was right, yet I was bound in sin. When in company with worldly people I would often partake of their sinful pleasures, yet I believed I was a Christian. The devil wished to keep me there and drag me down into hell. But God pulled me out of the mire and washed me in the blood of the Lamb, and now gives me victory over all sin. Praise his name forever! Pray that I keep humble and obedient, and that I may be healed of catarrh.

Herman Hanson.

Fertile, Minnesota.

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Obituaries.

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          GILMORE. ... Nora J. Moore was born August 12, 1876, near Ash Grove, Missouri: was married to A. M. D. Gilmore, Jr., September 25, 1894. To this union was born one son who survives her. This family removed to California in 1900. Dear Nora was once a follower of Jesus, a bright and shining light, but she drifted away from God. Her last few years were blighted by sin, but God’s Holy Spirit sought after her and won her back about two weeks before she died. She would lie and look at the Word of God and think that she must face it in judgment. It seemed at the beginning of her illness, which was typhoid and lung trouble, she doubted her recovery. She would often pray: “Lord, thy will be done.” She was anointed according to James 5:14, 15. The Lord gave her a blessing and filled her soul with joy on account of his presence, but saw fit to call her home. A few days before she died she had her aunts sing:

“Shall my Soul ascend with rapture,

When the day of life is past?

While my house of clay shall slumber,

Shall I then with Jesus rest?”

          Her soul was made to overflow with joy. She called her little boy to her side and prayed with him, committing him to God. She said people should not put off their soul’s salvation until disease lays hold upon their body, for in so short a time she was beyond calling upon God for help. May this be a warning to the unsaved to prepare to meet God. May God bless and sustain the parents to live so as to meet their child in heaven.

          Sister Gilmore died July 17, 1901. Funeral services were conducted at the home by Brother Sensney. Text: “Where art thou?” ... Genesis 3:9. The body was then laid to rest to await the coming of Christ. May God bless and comfort all the bereaved friends and relatives, and especially the companion; and may he prepare to meet the one gone on before.

Lillie B. Thurmond.

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          McCOURT. ... Miss Susie E. McCourt was born July 26, 1879; died July 25, 1901; aged 22 years lacking one day. She was sick about three months, during which time she began to see her condition and asked for prayer that she might be saved. She gave up everything and God saved her precious soul several days before she died. She quit taking medicine several days before she was saved, and would not have the doctor any more. But God did not see fit to let her remain here longer, but he took all pain away, as she said just a few minutes before her death that she did not suffer at all. She told her dear ones that God wanted her, and called them around her bed-side and bade them good-by, telling them not to weep, and to meet her in heaven. She was happy right in the hour of death, and died as easily as anybody could. She had one thing to regret, and that was that she did not get saved earlier. She leaves a dear old father, mother, three sisters, and host of friends to mourn their loss, which is her gain. Service held by.

N. S. Duncan.

Huntsville, Alabama.

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Divine Healing.

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Fear Not to Trust God.

          For the encouragement of those trusting their little ones in God’s hands for healing, I wish to testify to the healing power of the Great Physician in behalf of our little two-year old son.

          On account of his teething he was attacked with summer complaint, which gradually developed into dysentery, or bloody flux. He passed blood quite freely and was rapidly failing. We called for the elders, had him anointed and the prayer of faith offered, and in a very short time we observed he was much better. His appetite, which had failed him, returned, and he was soon in his usual health. Praise the dear Lord for his healing power!

          Nine years ago we took Christ for our Physician, and he has never failed to heal us and our four children. During all this time our medicine and doctor bills for sickness have cost us less than ten cents. We can truthfully say that divine healing has proved a perfect success in our family.

          Mothers, trust your little ones in God’s hands for healing; it will be far better for them, and your souls will be enriched in faith and drawn nearer to God.

A. and M. J. Radebaugh.

Moundsville, West Virginia,

August, 5.

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Child Healed.

          I am truly praising God for the way he has manifested his power in the healing of my baby. She was taken very sick with something like cholera infantum. The neighbors told us of many remedies to give the child, but I told them I would not give her anything; for I was trusting God to heal her. She was very low, but I held on to God. I wrote to the saints to have special prayer for the child. Two days and nights she lay between life and death.

          “Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” ... James 5:14, 15. By this the Lord showed me to call for the elders. So I telephoned to where I thought there were some elders. While I was gone to telephone the baby was given some medicine. The little one was almost in spasms all day. It seemed the child would die. I fasted and prayed that day. Praise God, he honored his Word and healed the little one in spite of all the power of the enemy. I praise God for what he has done for me.

          Some of the neighbors came to see if it were true. They knew I would not give the medicine. Dear one, pray that God ever keep me humble and walking in the light. God has healed me many times of different things. Praise his name!

Elizabeth Graham.

Springfield, Illinois.

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Christ Has Not Changed.

          God saves me by two distinct works of grace, namely, justification and sanctification. Praise his name forever! I do know that I have passed from death unto life and have become a new creature in Christ Jesus. I realize that I have no goodness in myself whereby to claim this wonderful blessing, but I give God the praise and glory. I have proved him able to heal. During the last camp-meeting at Moundsville I was in poor health, also previous to this meeting I was suffering in my body. I was entirely relieved from all pain and my weak body was greatly strengthened.

          About two years ago in Burket, Indiana, I was taken very sick, having a high fever and chills. I asked a sister to pray for me and I was instantly healed. I then realized for the first time that the Lord has not changed, either in sympathy or power. My faith still grows stronger. Praise God, O my soul! We should make mention in public of the goodness of God in behalf of our afflictions, that others may profit thereby. Surely God will hold us responsible if we keep our mouths closed when he is doing such great things for us. Could not some of God’s ministers come with the full gospel and stay until his church here is better established? A tabernacle would be needed.

W. H. and A. A. Lawrence.

Rowland, Ohio.

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Obedient Children.

          We can never enjoy the blessings of divine sonship unless we come to God with childlike confidence, and from our hearts obey his Word. It is useless for us to say, “Lord, Lord,” while we do not the things which he says. To those who call themselves by his name while disregarding his commands, the Lord has said, “If I be a Father, where is mine honor? If I be a Master, where is my fear?” ... Malachi 1:6. It is because we are sons, and have forsaken our wanderings to come home to our Father’s house, that the Lord has sent forth his Spirit into our hearts, whereby we cry, “Abba, Father.” And when we have thus entered into this dear relationship, when we are no more servants but sons, when we are not merely adopted, but are real sons, having been “born of God,” “born from above,” and “born of the Spirit,” then we know that his own love for his own offspring binds him to care for us, to stand by us, and to cause all things to work together for good to them that love God.

          There may be times when the eye of man fails to clearly recognize the workings of this divine life. There are also times when natural life is so faint and feeble that its presence can hardly be perceived. The germs of vegetable and animal life are often so minute as to be scarcely discernable; and so the spiritual life may be faint and feeble, and the germs of divine vitality may be unperceived by mortal eye. Nevertheless, when once the “incorruptible seed, the Word of God which liveth and abideth forever,” has taken root within the heart, “we know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren;” and if we “receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save our souls;” if, “as new-born babes,” we “desire the sincere milk of the Word, that we may grow thereby,” he that raised up Christ from the dead shall quicken our mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in us; our whole being will be instinct with divine vitality; and we can say with the apostle, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God; and it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he shall appear we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is: and every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself even as he is pure.”

... Selected.

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What Can One Man Do?

          We live in days of societies, corporations, and associations; and in the multiplicity of such organizations, the power and responsibility of the individual are largely overlooked. And when any good work needs to be done, instead of going and doing it, people organize a society, with a constitution, by-laws, and a formidable board of officers and directors, and then appoint one or two men to conduct the business and accomplish the work; sometimes with the best results, sometime with the worst, and sometimes with no results at all.

          It is not good for men to lose sight of their individual responsibility. When the Master comes to reward his servants, he will reckon with them one by one. They will not come up in “boards,” with a secretary to report for them; nor in “societies,” with a company of trustees or directors to make a statement on their behalf; but “every man shall give account of himself to God.” The man who supposed his duty done when he had joined a society and contributed to its funds, may find at the end that his work still remains undone and that the contributions he has made will not be accepted in lieu of personal service in the Master’s vineyard.

          A careful study of the divine methods, as revealed in the ages past, indicates that the work which God does in this world is most frequently accomplished through individual instrumentalities. Noah’s ark was not put in charge of a building committee; if it had been they might all have been drowned before they had decided on a plan and raise the requisite funds. The Lord did not send an army with banners to rescue Israel from Egyptian bondage; but a solitary shepherd with his wonder-working staff wrought out deliverance for the people. If a vote had been taken on the report of the twelve who were sent to spy out the land of Canaan, there would have been a clear majority for abandoning the undertaking and turning back to Egypt. But two men who “followed the Lord fully” brought in a minority report at the risk of a stoning, and finally led Israel triumphant to the Promised Land. The deliverances in the days of the Judges were wrought through single individuals. One man with the Spirit of the Lord upon him would rally the scattered hosts of Israel, and strengthen their fainting hearts. Gideon and Barak, Deborah and Jephthah, Samson and Samuel, affore instances of what one person can do when anointed and guided by the Lord. One shepherd boy discomfited the Philistines, and led the hosts of Israel to victory. One trembling prophet, when but a child, was set over the nations, to root out and build, to plant, and to overturn, and to decide the destinies of kings and conquerors. One Elijah turned back apostate Israel from their idolatries, and cleared the land of the priestly rabble that had seduced them from God. One Daniel stood like a rock against the idolatries and corruptions of Babylon and Persia. One Nehemiah marshaled the faint-hearted Israelites and built the walls of Jerusalem. One John the Baptist, filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother’s womb, roused Judea to repentance, and heralded the coming of the Savior. And the apostles who went forth to do their work, in their earnest labors wrought as individual men. Peter and Paul and John were mighty heralds of the gospel, and in their different fields did work which no cumbrous organization would ever have accomplished.

          The destinies of the race have been molded by the energies of individuals. The conquerors ... the Nimrods, the Nebuchadnezzars, the Alexanders, the Caesars, the Napoleons ... have been in their own personality mightier than embattled hosts. And so in other walks of life, the reformers, the evangelists, the men like Luther, and Calvin, and Whitefield, and Wesley, were men who moved the masses round them, and ruled the age in which they lived. Obeying the call of God, meeting the necessities of the hour, watching the direction of providence, and moving in obedience to divine commands, such solitary, heroic, and energetic men have fulfilled their mission, and brought things to pass which no mere combination of men would have been likely to accomplish.

          This has ever been, and still is, the divine order. God works through individual men. Most great institutions are largely dependent for their efficiency upon the activity and determination of some one energetic official. The great trouble, however, in this case, is that inefficient men often occupy positions where they are powerless in accomplishing good, but influential in preventing others, and in hindering the work that they might accomplish.

          It is sometimes asserted that, while individuals are liable to die and leave their works to perish, institutions live on in perpetuity, and accomplish more lasting results. There is, however, this advantage: when a man is dead he can be buried; but sometimes an institution walks the earth, ghost-like, long after it has ceased to possess vitality enough for any practical purpose. The divine plan is that the old shall pass away, and the new take its place.

          The Lord does not perpetuate oaks by preserving the decaying stumps, but by planting fresh acorns; and he not only uses individuals to do their personal work for him, but he also uses them to train others who are to succeed them in accomplishing his purposes.

          Joshua served a long apprenticeship with Moses, before he came to stand as the leader of Israel. Elisha left his farming and his twelve yoke of oxen, to be the personal servant of the wandering Elijah, whom he followed faithfully, until, at last, he saw him pass upward to the skies, caught his falling mantle, and received a double portion of his spirit. The twelve apostles labored and learned under the personal supervision of their Lord and Leader, until they were equipped for the work he set before them. Timothy, “as a son with a father,” served with Paul in the gospel, until he had fully known his doctrine, manner of life, suffering, affliction, and patience.

          Many a man has missed his opportunity for the highest usefulness, through a self-confidence which made him too wise to wait for the instruction that he required, and too hasty in spirit to sit at the feet of those who were competent to teach him. Many a man, through a restless ambition to do some great thing to which God has not called him, has been the instrument of his own failure, and defeated his own plans. The men whom God has called to do mighty things for him have often been men who shrank from positions of responsibility, and would gladly have remained in a lowlier station and a more private sphere. But at the call of God they have been ready to give up all and follow him.

          There are many to-day wondering what they can do, and earnestly desiring to fill some higher and more prominent sphere of action. Let them learn faithfulness where they are; and to the extent of their abilities let them fill their present positions, and do their present work. When this is done, other occupations will not be wanting; and He who guides his people may pour upon them his Spirit, and choose them to do his work.

          But the divine anointing comes not upon the proud, the ambitious, and the self-seeking. “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the lowly.” “He knowest the proud afar off,” but he has his dwelling with the lowly, to revive the spirit of the humble and the contrite. Let those who have known something of his grace, follow on to know the Lord, in paths of patience and humility, not doubting that he who sees them faithful over a few things, will, in due time, make them rulers over many things.

          God has an abundance of work to do, and perhaps never had more use for faithful servants than at the present time. Let those who have hearts to serve him, consecrate their lives anew; let the be faithful in that which is least, and obedient to every call of divine providence, and in due time they shall find what one man can do when called of God and anointed by the Holy Ghost.

... H. L. H., in The Christian.

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