Lt 4, 1895
To the Men in Responsible Positions in Battle Creek
Granville, Australia
September 1895
Dear Brethren:
You have no right to absorb in Battle Creek the means that is sent out by our people, and leave mission fields impoverished. The funds that accumulate in Battle Creek have not been created by those who handle the means. It is the faith of the people in the cause and work of God that has brought tithes and offerings to the treasury.
The efforts made to induce our people to move away from Battle Creek have not succeeded. And why? Because the enlargements constantly going forward have been encouraging people to move in. There was represented to me a mammoth vineyard, requiring much labor to tend and care for it. Men were working in one part of the vineyard, while other parts were left unworked, to grow thorns and briers. One of dignified bearing said, Why are you setting out so many plants in this part of the field? Take some of the plants to other portions of God’s vineyard. More ground will be brought under cultivation. Thus the work will be greatly extended, and new elements will be brought in. When people are congregated together as they are in Battle Creek, it requires more labor to keep the church in a right condition than would be required to minister to the same number were they were scattered as they should be in different parts of the field.
Consolidation means that all institutions are to be merged into the Battle Creek institutions. For years something of this kind has been proposed by one and another. But according to the light I have had, the plan is wrong, decidedly wrong. Let every institution stand in its own individuality, doing its respective work in its own locality. There are not in Battle Creek men of sufficient clearness of discernment, sanctified by the grace of Christ, to carry the responsibilities which they now assume. If there is any action taken to merge everything into one institution under the dictation of those now presiding, it will be one of the worst pieces of business that was ever transacted in Battle Creek in connection with the cause of God.
The Pacific Press should stand in its own moral independence, carrying on its work beyond the Rocky Mountains, in a little world of its own. Its managers are responsible to God to do their work as in full view of the universe of heaven.
Men are coming to trust in men, and to make flesh their arm; and when that arm is not linked in the arm of Christ, they will find that they are leaning upon a broken reed. The publishing houses were established in America in the counsel of God, under His direction and supervision, and they should stand in their own individuality, as sister institutions. Never should they be so related to each other that one shall have power to control the running of the other. If one institution shall adopt a policy which the other does not sanction, the other institution is not to be corrupted, but is to stand in its God-given responsibility, true to the principles that were expressed in its establishment, carrying forward the work in harmony with these principles.
Our people do not know what they are about. In some of their movements they act like blind men. The managers at Battle Creek are taking altogether too much on their hands, but they do not understand the result of this confederacy. Every institution should work in perfect harmony with the other institutions, but further than this they should not go toward confederacy or merging into one. Already there are men who, supposing themselves wise, are trying to shape matters according to their ideas. Things may for a time appear to prosper in their hands, but the result will be that which they do not now anticipate.
For years a spirit of oppression has been coming into Battle Creek. The human agents are lifting up themselves unto selfishness and domination. Not a work can be published but they try to gain control of it, and if authors do not concede to their propositions, those who publish the work will exert an influence with canvassers and other agents that will hinder its sale, and [they do] this, wholly irrespective of the value of the book. When every institution is merged into the one that is greatest—that is, measured by her power of control—that one will indeed be a ruling power, and if the principles of action in the most powerful institution are corrupted, as is now the case, and as has been in the history of the past, every other institution must follow the same path, else a determined influence will be brought to bear against it. The difficulty is not in the institution, but in the members.
This disposition to press men into hard places if you cannot bring them to your ideas is not according to God’s order. Those who do this when it suits them are bringing souls into unbelief and temptation, and driving them on Satan’s battlefield. They forget that God will deal with them as they deal with their fellow men. God’s cause is not to be molded by one man, or half a dozen men. All His responsible stewards are to bear a share in the devising, as well as in the execution of the plans. Men must not forget that the God of heaven is a God of justice; with Him is no partiality, no hypocrisy. He will not serve with men’s selfishness, or sanction their plans to rob one soul of his rights, because they can press him inconsiderately, and make statements and plans that compel surrender <or leave him helpless.>
Shall everything pass under the control of men whom we know have not a living connection with God? He who says, “I know thy works,” hears all their suggestions, listens to all their plans. [Revelation 2:2.] The institutions of God’s own creating, which He established upon principles of justice and equity, they are seeking to make a means of oppression, forcing the Lord’s workers to accept terms which they themselves, were the situation reversed, would not accept.
God’s instrumentalities are not chosen of men, nor under their jurisdiction. They are to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord. God is a party to every transaction, and He is sinned against and misrepresented. The Lord’s powerful instrumentalities are made as a cutting sword to weaken and destroy, because those who are managing these instrumentalities possess attributes that lead them to do this. When men swerve from truth and righteousness, violates justice in deal, making contracts that bind others according to their will, <and violate contracts,> let them remember that for all this, God will bring them into judgment. By no sharp dealing or underhand advantage is the Lord to be glorified or His truth served. Money acquired in this way to supply the treasury will benefit no one, for God will not serve with the sins of oppression and selfishness.
It should be written on the conscience as with a pen of iron upon a rock, that no man can achieve true success while violating the eternal principles of right. There must be a cleansing of the institutions similar to Christ’s cleansing of the temple of old. “It is written,” saith the Lord, “my house shall be called a house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves.” [Matthew 21:13.] There are in our institutions today transactions similar to those that took place in the temple <courts> in Christ’s time; and all heaven is looking on.
Think you that the Lord of heaven has looked with pleasure on your dealings with Frank Belden in regard to his books? On the pages of the books of heaven is written, Fraud, injustice and robbery. Other transactions have been conducted in the same spirit. The success of Gospel Primer chafed the men whose hearts have not been connected with God. They could not possibly let God work through His own instrumentalities to plant His standard in a field that has been almost entirely neglected. By every plausible device, Satan has worked to discourage the ones who entered that field. Determined effort has been made to retard the work and bind the workmen. When the Lord opened the way for the sale of Gospel Primer, and before one step was openly to kill it, I was shown that it would be done, because there are those connected with the institutions who do not keep the way of the Lord.
God is dishonored by those who are in responsible places of stewardship, yet do not realize the necessity of being, both in spirit and words, an example to those connected with them, who have learned to do as they require. Every one must have the grace of God for his own soul, he must confide in the pardoning mercy of God through the merits of Christ. Then he will not manifest a harsh zeal to bruise and wound, but a sanctified zeal to answer the prayer of Christ, which He offered before His crucifixion, zeal not for human uplifting, but for the glory of God.
The change of the natural, inherited, and cultivated tendencies of the human heart is that change of which Jesus spoke when He said to Nicodemus, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see (discern) the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus did not understand Christ’s words. He inquired, “How can these things be?” The answer comes home to every man in responsible positions, “Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen: and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly thing, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.” [John 3:3, 9-13.]
The change of heart represented by the new birth can be brought about only through the effectual working of the Holy Spirit. Self love and pride resist the Spirit of God. Every natural inclination of the soul withstands and opposes the change from self-importance and price to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. It is only through receiving divine light, only through the co-operation of heavenly intelligences, that we can discern the spiritual character of the kingdom of God. Only thus can we have a lively sense of the duties due to all with whom we are connected in labor, or with whom we are brought in contact. We are under contract to God, in His divine service, to work as Christ worked, not in accordance with natural inclinations, but in accordance with the Spirit of God. The express requirements of the Old Testament are in perfect agreement with the teaching of the New Testament.
The Lord Jesus spoke from the pillar of cloud, “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God will all thy heart and with all thy soul, to keep the commandments of the Lord and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? … For the Lord your God is a God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh rewards: he doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, and giveth him food and raiment.” [Deuteronomy 10:12, 13, 17, 18.]
Compare this with the words of Christ in the New Testament: “A certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law, how readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and will all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.] “A father of the fatherless and a judge of the widow, is God in his holy habitation.” [Psalm 68:5.] “The Lord preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and the widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down.” [Psalm 146:9.] “If thy brother be waxen poor, and falleth into decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: yea, though he be a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee.
“Take no usury of him, or increase: but fear thy God, that thy brother may live with thee. Thou shalt not give him thy money upon usury, nor lend him thy victuals for increase. I am the Lord your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, to give you the land of Canaan, and to be your God.” “Thou shalt not rule over him with rigor, but shall fear thy God.” [Leviticus 25:35-38, 43.] See also Deuteronomy 15:7-11; 24:14, 15, 19-21; Leviticus 19:32-37. “Owe no man anything, but to love one another.” [Romans 13:8.] The oppression of the poor, which is nothing less than actual robbery, is not punishable by human courts, except in very extreme cases; but it is marked by the God of heaven as the abhorred practice which He would in no case tolerate.
The apostle James says to the rich, “Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth.” [James 5:4.] God condemns injustice whenever manifested, whoever the person, whatever the business. Wherever schemes are devised to withhold money from those to whom it is due, or to deprive any man of his right, there God’s disapprobation rests. It is for the interest of every soul connected with the work of God to receive His warnings and reproofs, and die to that stubborn will which has opposed the will of God.
The publishing houses were brought into existence in a spirit of sacrifice, and no persons should have been permitted to hold a responsible position in the work who desired to work according to the world’s policy. The consecration and purity of the worker will be evidenced by the principles manifested in his attitude toward every child of God. The publishing house was established for the purpose of doing business upon the principles of justice and equity, judging every case without partiality and without hypocrisy. In our institution the Spirit of Christ was to be a witness to the world of the character of God, a living epistle, known and read of all men. These institutions were to reveal nothing like oppression; the managers were to be those who showed decidedly that they were under the control of God. Selfishness and the love of money was not to set aside those principles of sacrifice which characterized the establishment of these instrumentalities.
No one should be allowed to engage in the sacred work of God who could be bought or sold for money. No one is to take advantage of any man’s ignorance or necessity, in order to charge exorbitant prices for work done or for goods sold. The managers are not obeying the commandments of God when by any selfish devising they secure the benefits of the time and talent of the workmen. Such a course is robbery of your neighbor. God has given every one of His workers certain qualifications for which he is responsible, not to any man or set of men, but to God. He is so to use them that they will be a blessing to himself [by] <having it in his power to> be a blessing to others. The practices that have prevailed in the Review and Herald office, and which are now leavening the managers of the conferences, are not correct. I cannot specify all the departures from righteousness; they are too many to be enumerated, and I am not told to do this.
Some will urge that in dealing with sharpers, those who have no conscience, one must conform in a large degree to the customs that prevail; that should he adopt a course of strict integrity, he would be compelled to give up his business, or fail to secure a livelihood. Where is your faith in God? He owns you as His sons and daughters on condition that you come out from the world and be separate and touch not the unclean thing. There will be violent temptations to diverge from the straight path; there will be innumerable arguments in favor of conforming to custom, and adopting practices that are really dishonest.
When one worker enters into a confederacy with another, as has been done, seeking to supply what others lack of aptitude or knowledge, he is doing that one an injury, and is assisting in a deception. That worker receives pay for qualifications which he has not possess, and his failures in duties which he is supposed to perform are many. Yet the largest wages are received, and the treasury is robbed. God has been greatly displeased by these things.
These may be regarded by men as little things, but was it a little thing for Adam and Eve to eat of the fruit of the tree which God had forbidden them to eat? The smallness of the act did not avert the consequences. It was disobedience to God’s commandments, and the floodgates of woe were opened upon our world. We cannot be Christians and connive at any dishonest practice, or breach of trust. The Christian will not be found spending extravagantly means which he has not earned. God requires every man to be punctual, just, and without guile in his lips or in his heart. Be righteous in all your dealings with your fellow men if you would have, not only the name, but the character of a Christian. Those who depart from Bible principles and vindicate their defects as righteous, have never received the true knowledge of Christ or the experience of being, in truth, doers of the Word. There is nothing in the Word of God that glosses over or excuses one phase of selfishness, one approach to over-reaching or dishonesty.
God pledges His most Holy Word that He will bless you if you will walk in His way and do justice and judgment. “Thou shalt not have in thy bag divers weights, a great and a small: thou shalt not have in thine house diverse measures, a great and a small: but thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have: that thy days may be lengthened in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. For all that do such things, and all that do unrighteousness, are an abomination unto the Lord thy God. Remember what Amalek did unto thee by the way when we were come forth out of Egypt; how he met thee by the way, and smote the hindmost of thee, even all that were feeble behind thee, when thou wast faint and weary; and he feared not God.” [Deuteronomy 25:13-18.]
Notwithstanding that the children of Israel has often grieved the Lord by departing from His counsel, yet He still had a tender care for them. The Lord Jesus Christ saw their enemies taking advantage of their circumstances, to do them an injury; for that work [was] <to bring suffering upon> the weary, who were journeying under God’s leading. Hear the judgments which God pronounced: “Therefore it shall be, when the Lord thy God hath given rest from all thine enemies round about, in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it, that thou shalt blot out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven; thou shalt not forget it.” [Verse 19.]
I pen these words of God, that those who profess to be His children may not receive the curse pronounced upon Amalek because they have followed the practices of Amalek. If the heathen receive this denunciation for their course for overcoming the faint and weary, what will the Lord express toward those who have had light, great opportunities and privileges, but have not manifested the spirit of Christ toward their own brethren?
The Lord sees all the dealings of brother with brother which weaken faith, and which destroy their confidence in themselves as men dealing as men dealing with justice and equity. In the most positive language He expresses His displeasure at the iniquity practiced in trade. He says, “Shall I count them pure with the wicked balances, and with the bag of deceitful weights?” [Micah 6:11.] The very wrong here mentioned may not have been committed in our institutions, but acts which these things represent have been, and are still being done. Page after page might be written in regard to these things. Whole conferences are becoming leavened with the same perverted principles. “For the rich men thereof are full of violence, and the inhabitants thereof have spoken lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth.” [Verse 12.]
The Lord will work to purify His church. I tell you in truth, the Lord is about to turn and overturn in the institutions called by His name. Just how soon this process will begin, I cannot say, but it will not be long deferred. He whose fan is in His hand will cleanse His temple of its moral defilement. He will thoroughly purge His floor. God has a controversy with all who practice the least injustice, for in so doing they reject the authority of God, and imperil their interest in the atonement, the redemption which Christ has undertaken for every son and daughter of Adam. Will it pay to take a course abhorrent to God? Will it pay to put upon your censers strange fire to offer before God, saying that it makes no difference?
It has not been after God’s order to center so much in Battle Creek. The state of things now exists that was presented before me as a warning. I am sick at heart at the representation. The Lord gave warnings to prevent this demoralizing condition of things, but they have not been heeded. “Ye are the salt of the earth; but it the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden underfoot of men.” [Matthew 5:13.]
I appeal to my brethren to wake up. Unless a change takes place speedily, I must give the facts to the people, for this state of things must change; unconverted men must no longer be managers and directors in so important and sacred work. With David we are forced to say, “It is time for thee, Lord, to work; for they have made void thy law.” [Psalm 119:126.]
Lt 5, 1895
Brethren in Responsible Positions in America
Norfolk Villa, Granville, Australia
July 24, 1895
To my Brethren in responsible positions in America:
I am deeply concerned in regard to the disregard of warnings and appeals that have been made by the Spirit of God through the humble instrument. Much time is devoted to large gatherings for the instruction of those who know the truth, when if these very ones would with contrition of heart, forsake their selfishness and go earnestly, prayerfully to work to communicate light to those who are in spiritual darkness, they would receive strength far superior to anything they can obtain through spending so much money and labor upon themselves. They have the benefits of the camp meetings, and many other opportunities for instruction. If these do not accomplish the work for them, these large, expensive institutes will not accomplish it. The time thus spent by the attendants might better be employed in going into some of the dark, unworked fields, and proclaiming the truth to those who are ready to perish.
The money spent in enlarging the institutions in Battle Creek might far better be devoted to planting the truth in cities and places where it has not yet taken hold. Money has been entrusted to human agents, to be invested, put out to the exchangers, and increased with use. Again and again the men in positions of trust have had laid before them the pressure of necessity that the Lord’s vineyard should be more equally worked. The vineyard is the world; every part of it is the Lord’s and should receive due attention. No one locality is to swallow up every resource that can be obtained to enrich and magnify and multiply its facilities, while the largest portions of the field are left destitute. This policy is not inspired of God. The gracious calls of mercy are to be given to all parts of the world.
What are we doing for the Southern field? I have looked most anxiously to see if some plans would not be set in operation to redeem the sinful neglect of that field, but I see not a proposition or a resolution to do anything. Perhaps something has been planned that I have not seen. I hope so, and praise the Lord if it is so. But for years our duty has been laid out in a most decided manner, and yet the Southern field has been but touched with the tip ends of our fingers. I now feel deeply in earnest in again bringing before you this neglected portion of the Lord’s vineyard. The matter is brought before me again and again. I have been awakened in the night season, and the command has come, write the things I have opened before you, whether men will hear, or whether they will forbear.
It is not merely the white people in the Southern field that are to receive the message of truth. Methods and plans must be devised to reach the colored people. This kind of work calls for laborers, and the duty rests upon our responsible men to set men at work in that field, and to sustain the work with a portion of the means supplied through tithes and offerings from the believers in all parts of our world. God’s field is the world. Jesus said to his disciples, “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” [Acts 1:8.] “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” [Luke 24:47.]
And Peter said to the believers, “The promise is unto you, and your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Acts 2:39.] And the Lord said, “I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; And I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God.” [Hosea 2:23.] “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the ends of the earth.” [Isaiah 49:6.] Something has been done in foreign countries, and something in home missions; but altogether too much territory has been left unworked. The work is too much centralized. The interests in Battle Creek are overgrown, and this means the robbing of other parts of facilities which they should have had.
The larger and still larger preparations, in the erection and enlargement of buildings, that call together and hold the large number in Battle Creek, is not in accordance with God’s plan, but in direct contravention of His plan. It has been urged that there were great advantages in having so many institutions in close connection, that they could be a strength to one another and could afford help to those seeking education and employment. This is according to human reasoning; it will be admitted that, from a human point of view, many advantages are gained by crowding so many responsibilities into Battle Creek, but the vision needs to be extended.
These interests should be broken up into many parts, that plants may be made in cities which it will be necessary to make centers of interest. Buildings should be erected and responsibilities centered in many localities that are now robbed of vital, spiritual interest in order to swell the overplus already in Battle Creek. The Lord is not glorified by this management on the part of those who are in responsible positions. “The earth shall be full of the knowledge of Jehovah, as the waters cover the sea.” [Isaiah 11:9.] “For this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.]
God has poured out richly of His Holy Spirit upon the believers in Battle Creek. What use have you made of these blessings? Have you done as did the men upon whom the Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost? Then “they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word.” [Acts 8:4.] Was this the fruit seen in Battle Creek? Was the church taught of God to know their duty, and to reflect the light they had received?
“When the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word, they sent unto them Peter and John.” [Verse 14.] The Spirit of God was waiting to enlighten souls and convert them to the truth. How much effort was put forth for even one man, an Ethiopian. “The angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.
“Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot, and Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. … Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” [Verses 26-31, 35.] (See Acts 8.)
In this account of Philip and the Ethiopian is presented work which the Lord calls His people to do. This one man, an Ethiopian, represents a large class of human beings that need missionaries like Philip, who will hear the voice of God to go where He shall send them. There is a class who are reading the Scriptures, and cannot understand their import. Those who have a knowledge of God are needed to explain His Word to these souls. The Lord’s heritage has been strangely neglected, and God will judge His people for these things.
In the parable of the good Samaritan the priest and Levite looked on the wretched man who had been robbed and wounded, but it did not seem to them desirable to help the one who most needed help, because he was helpless and forsaken. That priest and Levite represent many, many in Battle Creek. Will our brethren explain what their course means? Will the men in charge of the work of God sense their neglect? Will the people in Battle Creek show how much of zeal, of true missionary spirit, they have been receiving?
With the great privileges you have had to learn line upon line, and precept upon precept, and with the precious out pouring of the spirit of God, what lessons have you learned? How much self-denial will our institutions manifest in binding about their imaginary wants? Will they continue to spread themselves and obtain more and still more conveniences for their better accommodation, while the means to be expended for the downtrodden colored race is so little and meager? Here are your neighbors, poor, beaten, oppressed; thousands of human beings suffering for the want of educational advantages; many so many, who need to hear the gospel preached in its purity.
Men of ability are willing to work for a meager sum, two or three dollars a week, to sustain their families; they have souls as precious as those of the men who, because of their selfishness and covetousness, receive thirty dollars a week. Will those who have an abundance put their hands into their pockets, and out of their plentiful supplies impart something to furnish their neighbors with facilities? Will they make provision to help men to do the work they can do for a few dollars a week? Most earnest work should have been done many years ago. There might have been an altogether different presentation from what we now see.
I appeal to families who understand the truth. What are you doing? You can be God’s ministers to take up the work in this neglected field that needs to be ploughed and to be sowed with the gospel seed of truth. Who for Christ’s sake will give themselves to this work? You could have had missionaries in this hard field many years ago. God has called upon you to go labor in His vineyard; but the most miserable, unpromising portions of the vineyard have been passed by. Human beings, who are the Lord’s by creation and by redemption, have been left for wolves to devour, while you have felt at ease, eating from the abundant supply God gave you to share with those in need.
We have been eating of the large loaf, and have left the suffering, distressed people of the Southern regions starving for education, starving for spiritual advantages. By your actions you have said, Am I my brother’s keeper? Where are those who have had so much light, so much food that they have lost their appetite for food, and do not appreciate the Bread of life? Those rich treasures, if imparted to others, would be life and hope and salvation to them. The Bible, the precious Bible, is not chained to any one place, but is to go to every part of our world, and its sacred truths are to be everywhere studied.
You cannot send laborers into the Southern field, and merely say to one, You may work there, or to another, You may work there. Facilities must be provided, and workmen to plan for these states. Something is being done, but from the light God has given me, the blood of souls will surely be found in the garments of those, who, like the priests and Levites, are passing by on the other side. This is just what our people are doing. Those who have been feeding from a well-supplied table do not allow even the crumbs that fall from the table to be bestowed on the colored people. But divine illumination is to come to them. And I beseech you, brethren, do not take out of the hands of those who would work every chance they may have to obtain means to work in the Southern states. It is not your privilege to grasp every tittle to dispose of as you see fit. God has been teaching me, and I will not rest, I dare not hold my peace. I urge you to supply the people of this long-neglected field with food out of your abundance.
God will not commend selfishness in your planning and managing. Do not act as though you feared some other one of His instrumentalities would have a few crumbs from God’s table. If you should send many laborers to the most destitute part of His vineyard, and yet tie their hands by neglecting to furnish them with necessary means for any real work of uplifting, do you think this would please God? Are not the ways of the Lord equal? Shall Battle Creek be supplied with every facility, and thousands of dollars be spent in making things a little more convenient?
Your already abundant facilities, your buildings, your large wages, will witness against you in that day when every one shall be judged according to the deeds done in the body. The managers of the sanitarium, the college, and the publishing house, will not look with such proud satisfaction on their wide-spreading advantages when God shall make inquiry in regard to the souls they have left without regard, without labor, without light. Those whom you might have helped to receive the truth would in their turn have labored to help others that are in darkness.
The colored people might have been helped with much better prospects of success years ago than now. The work is now tenfold harder than it would have been then. But who will continue to dishonor God by their indolence, by their neglect, by passing by on the other side? Do not, I beseech you, look upon the hard field, grown a little, set two or three at work in one locality, a few in another, and provide them only enough for the bare necessaries of life. Those who labor in the Southern field will have to stand amid the most discouraging, hopeless poverty. They can see the needs of the work, and from the abundant supply in Battle Creek means should be furnished these workers to supply the people with advantages they cannot otherwise obtain. The reproach of indolence will be wiped away from the church when everyone who believes the truth shall be willing to labor as did our self-sacrificing Redeemer.
Christ cannot pronounce those good and faithful servants who have had the greatest advantages, the richest blessings, and yet have allowed a nation of helpless, dependent beings to remain degraded and unenlightened. Brethren, when you seek to help the ones who need education, that they may read the Word of God, when you say to every man, from the least to the greatest, know the Lord, know Him for yourselves, then your reproach will be wiped away. The Spirit of God will bless the means employed, even now.
In the past some attempts have been made to present the truth to the colored people, but those among the white people who claim to believe the truth have wanted to build a high partition between themselves and the colored race. We have one Saviour, who died for the black man as well as for the white. Those who possess the Spirit of Christ will have pity and love for all who know not the precious Saviour. They will labor to the utmost of their ability to wipe away the reproach of ignorance from white and black alike.
God’s means are not to be abundantly bestowed on a few privileged ones, so that they shall become exalted in pride, spreading themselves like a green bay tree, while the most needy suffering ones are left without succor. Let not those who are in positions of responsibility rest satisfied, saying, Be ye warmed and clothed and fed, and do nothing to relieve the temporal and spiritual necessities of the suffering ones.
God will bless those who are willing to give and to labor for the salvation of the world as did His beloved Son. Jesus was the Majesty of heaven, the King of Glory, and for our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich. See 2 Corinthians 9, also Psalm 112. Please read these Scriptures slowly, solemnly, and consider prayerfully the instruction given.
Hear the words of inspiration: “This I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly, and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (as it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness.)” [2 Corinthians 9:6-10.]
Thus did the Lord Jesus increase the food placed in the hands of His disciples, and they placed in the hands of the hungry multitude that which Christ distributed to them. All ate and were satisfied, and then Jesus said, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] There is to be no improvidence, no careless neglect, no waste of a morsel of food. This is a lesson as to the bestowal of spiritual gifts as well as temporal. Those who impart the grace given shall have grace for grace. Christ gives light and truth to enrich every soul who will enrich others by the gracious gifts of heaven. This is God’s plan, both in spiritual and temporal things.
“Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God.” [2 Corinthians 9:11, 12.] Those who desire to do so have an abundant opportunity to [be] engaged in experimenting that is wholly approved of God. “Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men; and by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” [Verses 13-15.]
Suppose our people should manifest true self-denial and love for souls as Christ has given us an example in His own life. Suppose we should make the experiment of bearing much fruit to the glory of God. Instead of studying how to absorb all the profits of the institutions (which were established in poverty) in enlarging and enriching themselves, suppose they should be regarded as God’s instrumentalities, and should provide facilities whereby destitute fields might be supplied with meeting places, and, in a limited degree, with the advantages that are so abundant in Battle Creek. Would not such a course be attended with the blessing of God, whose means you are handling? Suppose you should engage in this work as His stewards, without partiality and without hypocrisy, would it not be far safer to experiment in right doing than in selfishly grasping so much where there is no real need, which means robbery and want to other fields.
I repeat the words of Paul, “I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: as it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.” “Wherefore show ye to them and before the churches the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.” [2 Corinthians 8:13-15, 24.]
There is no more profitable and important work done in our world than that of soul-saving, and for this work the Lord has placed all heaven at our command. The angelic hosts will co-operate with the human agencies, and the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ is waiting our demands upon it. The churches are required to do active service for Christ. A healthful love is not mingled with sentimentalism. True faith works by love, and purifies the soul from all moral defilement. It is a holy faith, superior to sensual delights. It is a power enabling the soul to apply resolutely to irksome tasks and self-sacrifice for the Master’s sake.
Will someone who knows, please inform me in regard to the Gospel Primer. Those who issued this book hoped to use its avails for the benefit of the Southern field. It was hoped that some methods of education might be instituted in the field where Edson White and Bro. Palmer have been at work. But I learn that the Gospel Primer has been placed under the control of the General Conference. Disappointment has been expressed, but I learn nothing of the particulars. I want to know about the whys and wherefores. I see that Edson is now seeking to issue another book, that he may be able to extricate himself from debt, and help the Southern field; but what about this new book? Will the powers that be feel that it is given them of God to lay their hands upon that, and either forbid the work or grasp it, if there is any profit in it?
Nothing can be really selfish that has Christ for its absorbing object. Those who are struggling with all their might to do a work for the most depressed and discouraging class of people, need encouragement. If men or women have entrusted talents, and use these talents to advance the work of God, regarding their Lord’s money as a sacred trust to use to His glory, they are doing a work that God approves. What do you propose to do? I think I could furnish Edson with matter just such as would meet the necessities of the Southern field.
This neglected field has been presented before me in its sinfulness and degradation because of the treatment received from the whites. I can give them that which would reach them in their ignorance, and help to uplift their thoughts. But what course would you pursue in the matter. Should I give Edson an opportunity to work, not only to help the Southern field, but to recover himself from his embarrassments, would you feel like bringing the little book under your control, and give him no chance to recover himself? If there is any profit, would you feel it your privilege to claim every advantage. I know this is not God’s order or His will.
The hand of God is to be stretched out for the poor, degraded race. Men and women are sent to far-off lands, among heathen savages, to labor at great expense, and often at the sacrifice of their lives, but here are heathen at our very doors. The nation of slaves who were treated as though they had no souls, but were under the control of their masters, were emancipated at immense cost of life on both sides, the North seeking to restrict, the South to perpetuate and extend slavery. After the war, if the Northern people had made the South a real missionary field, if they had not left the Negroes to ruin through poverty and ignorance, thousands of souls would have been brought to Christ. But it was an unpromising field, and the Catholics have been more active in it than any other class.
As the mother of Edson White, I am opposed to his remaining in the field where he is, unless a sufficient corps of helpers shall unite with him to carry on the work. He may struggle with all his might, but who, I ask you, at the head of the work will appreciate and co-operate with him in his efforts? I have only Marian Davis to depend on to help me with my books. Willie has his special allotment of work, and he can scarcely give time to read over the manuscripts on the life of Christ. He is called here and there, and somewhere else, in councils, and works early and late.
Have you confidence that the work Edson is now engaged in is a good work, and that God is working with his efforts? If so, encourage him with the assurance that you thus regard it. If you cannot cooperate with him, but feel it your duty to hedge up every avenue whereby he may obtain means to make a success of his work, I wish to understand this. When souls take hold of the truth who are poor but who desire to help in giving light to their poor brethren, he [Edson] has no means that he can apply to help them in obtaining food merely to sustain life, that they may engage in the work they long to do for others. What courage can he have to labor in such a field? If he remains there, it may be at the sacrifice of his life, unless suitable help is furnished. What can one or two men do in such a field, against the prevailing ignorance, depravity, and immorality?
Yet the Lord has presented to me the fact that thousands of souls are longing for something better than they have. Many can be saved if this destitute field can have simply a small part of the means expended so lavishly in Battle Creek to make things more convenient.
The rebuke of God is upon the management for their partiality and selfish appropriation of His goods. Pride and love of display are gratified in the accumulated advantages, while new fields are left unworked because thousands of dollars are consumed in Battle Creek and other special localities.
In giving Edson White $8 a week to work in a field where poverty and distress are on every hand—and he has nothing besides this to depend on to relieve the situation—do you feel that you are doing a liberal thing? How does this compare with the $30 a week paid right in Battle Creek, where there are no special sacrifices to make, and paid to those who had no such work to do? Not one word of complaint has come to me from Edson in regard to his wages, only he told me he was terribly disappointed by the action taken at the conference to buy the Gospel Primer. But nothing has been explained.
I have need of Edson, great need of his knowledge in my work. And if there is to be no more effort to strengthen the work where he is laboring, then I do not wish to encourage him to remain in that field. He has not thought of leaving it, but I have serious thoughts that it is his duty to do so, unless matters shall be viewed in a correct light. If he stands in the way of your sending laborers to that part of the vineyard, tell me so. If you have confidence that he is doing a good work, tell me so. I must know all about this matter.
Edson writes that the work moves very slowly; he has been at work for three months in the one locality, and thirty souls are established in the truth. He thinks that the opposition and discouragements are peculiarly trying, and this is why a greater number have not embraced the truth. But just as strong and continuous labor has been put forth in these colonies; and if thirty embrace the truth after three, six, or even twelve months, we felt to say, What hath God wrought! Those who are converted in the South will work with their own families, with their relatives, with their friends, and so we may hope for increase from the seed sown.
In this country I have found destitution and poverty everywhere, and had I not means to relieve the distressed, to clothe the naked, to take the youth who are too poor to help themselves and place them in schools, and to help the churches in building houses of worship, we should have left the field long ago; for it would be useless to attempt to do anything, hampered on every side. In a letter of mine, copied by someone at the Pacific Press, the statement appears that I had spent $100 to educate students. It was $1000, and $2000 has been used in helping in different places where help was really needed.
Suppose that my brethren at the Review and Herald had been able to bring me to their terms in the publication of my books; what could I have done among this poverty-stricken people? I not only tell them what must be done, but shoulder a large part of the burden myself. I know that God sent me here, but if I had been bound about for want of facilities, I might have worn my life out, and died in disappointment that I could not relieve the situation. I will have Emily Campbell give you the figures showing what I have expended solely for the education of students in our school. I am satisfied with the outlay. It pays; thank God, it pays.
Since the Brighton camp meeting one hundred souls in Sydney and suburbs have embraced the truth, but it has cost us all hard, continuous labor, in devising, planning, working, and watching. Within two weeks another worthy family have taken their stand in Ashfield, or an adjoining suburb. The labor at Canterbury was not in vain in the Lord. In different suburbs an interest has been awakened that time will develop. But there have been not merely one man or two men at work here; much of the time there have been three ministers besides W. C. White and myself, with Bible workers, etc.
Becoming worked down, I fled to Cooranbong for a period of rest. There I found Bro. Rousseau carrying altogether too heavy a load; he was much worn. He met the students for Bible study and morning worship at six a.m. After breakfast they were off to the field till three p.m. After dinner there were classes till bed time. During the two weeks I took hold to relieve Bro. Rousseau of the morning study. He went across the paddocks by moonlight, with Willie or Bro. Caldwell, walking nearly three quarters of a mile to be at the six o’clock meeting. During my stay at Cooranbong I spoke twelve times, and the Lord gave me the word for those assembled. Twenty-six was the usual number in attendance at the morning study; on the two Sabbaths about forty were present at the services, six or eight of these were outsiders.
I was compelled to return home; for there were many things to be considered in regard to the building of a church in Ashfield. The land for a site has been purchased, now comes the struggle to build the church. Where the money is coming from I cannot tell. One thing I know, we must appropriate the means that has been raised for the benefit of this country. Step by step we are advancing, though the work moves slowly. We know that a great work has yet to be done, and it is an aggressive work. Shall we pronounce the situation hopeless, because the outlook appears so discouraging? God forbid! God has a people to be enlightened, and there are souls to be reached in the darkest and most forbidding regions. Everywhere people are under the condemnation of God, in consequence of transgression.
The salvation of the heathen has long been deemed a matter that should engage the interest of Christians. It is no more than justice to bring light to their dark borders. But home missionary work is just as much needed. The heathen are brought to our very shores. Idolatrous ignorance is in the very shadow of our homes. Something is being done for the colored people, but next to nothing compared to what others receive who have a knowledge of the truth, who have had opportunities innumerable, but have not half appreciated their advantages. To those who know not the truth let the love of Jesus be presented, and it will work as leaven for the transformation of the character.
The colored people have been neglected because the vexed question of how to build a wall of distinction between the whites and the blacks has been in agitation. Some have thought it the best way to reach the white people first, for if we should labor for the colored people we could do nothing for the white population. This is not the right position to assume. Christ’s followers are to learn all about the woes of the poor in their immediate vicinity and in their own country. The poor, friendless, untaught colored people need our assistance because they are ignorant and friendless. Those who have a dark, disagreeable life are the very ones whom we should bid to hope because Christ is their Saviour. God has jewels in the rough, and Hs true followers will find them. All who possess the spirit of Christ will have a tender, sympathetic heart, and an open, generous hand.
Those who press close to the bleeding side of Christ will have the spirit of Christ, and a nature that will be quickly responsive to His call. They will work to relieve the necessities of suffering humanity, as Christ worked while before the world fallen, the worlds unfallen; and all the heavenly host he was representing the ways and works of God. In the life of Christ we see what a Christian can do in relieving the distressed, binding up their physical and spiritual wants. Among the colored people, many, even of those who profess to be Christians are sadly ignorant, not only of Bible doctrines, but of Christian principles. Their religion is mingled with earthliness and sensuality. Justice and mercy and the love of God demand that those who have learned of Christ should impart to others, the very ones in the greatest need. The light is to shine forth amid the corruptions that will be found in the Southern field.
It is not ordained ministers that are required for most of the labor in this field; another ministry will be just as effectual. Those who work here should have a thorough knowledge of the condition of the field. An occasional visit from a minister will accomplish but little unless there are those who can follow up and continue the work. Missionaries are needed through whom God can work in His own appointed way according to their several ability. Those are needed who will be full of tender sympathy, who with hearts softened and subdued by the love of God can talk and pray with the people, showing an interest in their welfare, and obtaining a knowledge of their home life and their religious life.
There is need of shepherds who under the direction of the Chief Shepherd will visit, and present the truth in the simplicity of Christ. This means physical discomfort to be borne, and the sacrifice of ease. It means that the workers are to represent the great Shepherd, leaving the ninety and nine, and seeking for the straying sheep and lambs. It means a tender solicitude for the erring, the forbearance of Christ, a divine compassion, because the human agent is a partaker of the divine nature. It means an ear that can listen to heart-breaking recitals of wrong, of degradation, of falling under temptation, of despair and misery.
This kind of work means self-sacrifice. Is this why nothing more has been done for the Negro race?
Lt 35, 1895
Jones, A. T.
Campground, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
November 21, 1895
Dear Brother:
Yesterday extracts were read from letters from your pen in reference to our brethren in the Southern field. This subject is a very delicate one to handle, and I would not have anything to say upon it if I did not feel that I dare not withhold light that has been given me. My brother, I was made sad to hear the extracts from your letter. This is not the advice that Jesus gave in his sermon on the mount, Matthew 5:38-41. The principles that you present to others, you should first know are faultless, because sustained by a “Thus saith the Lord.”
How careful we should be in giving advice lest our counsel should result in great evil and suffering. How much better for the families to go out into some other cities or some other country, but never encourage the spirit of defiance and resistance, <even if they are placed in the chain gang.> The bigotry that exists, the prejudice against truth to sustain religious error is firm, for the human agent is stirred with hellish power from beneath. The Lord sees, the Lord knows all about the sufferings of His people for the truth’s sake. Pray, our Saviour says, for those who entreat you evil, and resist not evil.
There is a matter which I have written in regard to the introduction of the truth among the colored people. This cannot be done in any haphazard way, neither can advice be given to the believers and to those who teach the truth to be presumptuous. When the period comes in the Southern States to do as did the three worthies, who refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s image, that time will present decisions for or against the commandments of God. There is no need of closing up our own way <entirely.> It will be made more difficult to work the many fields that have not yet been touched.
Our policy is, Do not make prominent the objectionable features of our faith, which strike most decidedly against the customs and practices of the people, until the Lord shall give the people a fair chance to know that we are believers in Christ, that we do believe in the divinity of Christ, and in His pre-existence. Let the testimony of the world’s Redeemer be dwelt upon. “I, Jesus, have sent mine angel to testify of these things unto the churches.” [Revelation 22:16.] There is need of strictly guarding the word that the pen traces upon paper. The Lord help us to learn in the school of Christ His meekness and His lowliness.
If the Majesty of heaven guarded His every word lest He should stir up the spirit of Satan and the fallen angels, how much more careful should we be in all things <in connection with His work.>
I think it would be very becoming to all who claim to follow Christ to be indeed learning of Christ, His methods, and His meekness and lowliness of heart. We have a decided message to bear. In (Jude 1-8) we have the description of the pollution of the world, and the working agencies of Satan to corrupt the world, yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil, disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, “The Lord rebuke thee.” [Verse 9.]
“And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him.” Zechariah 3:1. These things are written for our benefit, and we are to study the Word in all these things now, for they concern us, particularly. There is to be such a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation. Our work is to study to weed out of all our discourses everything that savors of retaliation and defiance and making a drive against churches and individuals, because this is not Christ’s way and method. He did not pronounce scathing rebukes against those who knew not the truth, but against those whom God had made the depositaries of sacred responsibilities, a people chosen and favored with every temporal and spiritual advantage, and yet bearing no fruit.
The most solemn responsibility for the Jewish nation was when Jesus was in their midst. It was that generation, the generation who rejected him, that was the guilty one. Jesus, speaking sometimes by warning, by judgments, by blessing given and withdrawn, said, “Ye would none of my counsel, ye despised all my reproofs.” [Proverbs 1:25.] If thou art destroyed, it is thyself alone who are responsible. “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Warning, expostulation, forbearance, and patience are about to close.
Mark the cursing of the fig tree, representing the Jewish nation, covered with leaves of profession, but no fruit to be found thereon. The curses pronounced upon that fig tree, which represents the moral, thinking, living agent, cursed of God, living as were the Jews for forty years after this event, yet dead. Mark [that] the trees representing the Gentiles, were not covered. They were leafless, making no pretension to having the knowledge of God. Their time of fruit-bearing was not yet.
Let not any hard reproaches be made against those who know not the truth. Even the churches are in darkness. Those to whom God has entrusted the treasures of His grace are to be made the living, responsible agents, but what is their position? They have lamps—a knowledge of the truth—but how few have communicated the precious light God has given them, how few have borne fruit to the glory of God. They do not improve the light and privileges given. They do not “Arise shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon them.” [Isaiah 60:1.] They have no fruit, and the condemnation of God is upon them. The Lord will not work a miracle to open the eyes that refuse to see. The moistening showers, the sunshine God has given to quicken into life, continues, but they remain fruitless. Shall those for whom the Lord has done so much, have the form of godliness, and stop there? [Read] 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
The Lord pities the world, His vineyard, which has not been worked. In wrath He remembers mercy. He is sparing the world to let increased light come to it. In the midst of wrath He remembers mercy. His heart of divine mercy is full of love and compassion for the thousands who are in ignorance of the truth. There has been everything done for those who have a knowledge of the truth, to keep them in the truth; but those who know not the truth have not received one tithe of the advantages that they should have had. And thus it continues to be. God help the people to whom He has given every advantage, as He did the Jewish nation, to receive and impart to those who are in ignorance of the light of truth, instead of rejecting the light and blessing.
I do not know that you understand this. May the Lord help you to discern. It is not the place of those who have had from Jesus light, precious light, to condemn those to whom this light has never come, and to write or to speak things which will close the ears and door of the heart and hedge up the way, so that Satan’s power shall take possession of human minds, to give the imagination a false viewing that will, through any course that we shall pursue, bring on a state of things that will prevent us from reaching the world. This the Jewish nation did. They made themselves obnoxious to the world.
How shall correct impressions of what we really do believe be given to our world? By studying methods not of contention and condemnation, for there are thousands living up to the best light they have, and every means should be used to get the knowledge of the truth before the thousands who will discern evidence, who will appreciate the likeness of Christ in His people, if they can have an opportunity to see it. There are those among us who, if they should take time to consider, would regard their do-nothing position as a sinful neglect to use the talents which God has given them.
God has given His messengers the truth to proclaim. Then the churches are to voice the truth from the lips of the messengers, and use their talents in every way possible to make the ministry a power to communicate truth by their catching the first rays of light and diffusing the same. Here is our great sin. We are years behind. The ministers have been seeking the hidden treasures, and have been opening up the casket, and letting the jewels of truth shine forth, but there [has] not one hundredth part been done or [is] being done by members of the church that God requires of them. They will in that great day be self-convicted and self-condemned for their slothfulness. May the Lord lead them to self-penitence, and to now see themselves and exclaim, “Lord, I am that fruitless fig tree.”
May the Lord forgive His people who are not doing the work in His vineyard that He has given them to do. “I, Jesus, have sent mine angel, to testify these things in the churches.” “I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.” [Revelation 22:16.] Study this subject; read the next verse. We see that this is the very message that has been going forth to the people of God. The large halls in our cities should be secured [so] that the third angel’s message may be proclaimed by human lips. Thousands will appreciate the message. While so much time and money has been absorbed in ministerial institutes for those who have the truth and do not appreciate it, thousands are in ignorance of the truth. They know not what is the faith of Seventh-day Adventists.
Why do not the church members communicate that which they have received? Why this negligence? Why this selfish neglect, when the value of souls is at stake? Why is there not now something being done in a larger measure than has been done. Why are camp meetings kept year after year in the same locality? Why are they not taken to cities that know nothing of our faith? The plea is, There will be a saving of money and labor. Let the saving be done in other lines. But when souls are to be labored for, and the truth is to come before those who know it not, let us not talk of limiting on this line.
A world is to be warned. Watch, wait, pray, work, and let nothing be done through strife and vainglory. Let nothing be done to increase prejudice, but everything possible to make prejudice less, by letting in light—the bright rays of the Sun of Righteousness amid the moral darkness. There is a great work to be done yet, and every effort possible must be made to reveal Christ as the sin-pardoning Saviour, Christ as the Sin-bearer, Christ as the bright and morning star, and the Lord will give us favor before the world until our work is done.
Dear brother, I am your friend, and I would stand in perfect harmony with you. I do not want those who have closed the door of their hearts to light, to have any occasion to feel that they are right in criticizing you and Brother Waggoner and Brother Prescott. I have a great desire that you shall show Christlike wisdom in every movement.
With Christian love.
Lt 36, 1895
Jones, A. T.
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, Australia
October 13, 1895 [May 1895, see note at end of letter.]
Dear Brother:
I would be pleased to see you, and converse with you face to face. But as I cannot do this at present, I will write some things to you that I wish you to consider. There is danger that you and others will work too ardently in presenting matters on religious liberty. You are in danger of taking a course that is not wise. Many things have been spoken and written that are interpreted to mean antagonism to government and law. It is not wise to continually find fault with what is done by the rulers of government. This course will not help Seventh-day Adventism in any way. It is not our work to attack individuals and institutions, but to set forth the truth in the power of the Holy Spirit.
It is our work to magnify and exalt the law of God, and to exercise great care lest we be understood as putting ourselves in opposition to civil authorities. It is true that our warfare is aggressive, but the weapons that we are to use are those found in a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” Our work is to prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. We are not to be switched off in lines that will educate <a spirit of controversy and> a debating spirit, or arouse a spirit of antagonism in those not of our faith. <They think they are right and Seventh-day Adventists are wrong.> We should remember that we war not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
We should not work in such a manner as will mark us out as a people who seem to advocate treason. We should weed out every expression in our writings, our utterances, that if taken by itself could be misinterpreted so as to make it seem antagonistic to law and order. Everything should be carefully considered lest we place ourselves on record as uttering things that will make us appear disloyal to our country and its laws, for if we speak unguardedly, we shall be treated as disloyal to government before the crisis comes that will put us to the test. <We are not required to defy authorities.> We shall be treated as traitors at some time <in advocating Bible truth,> but let it not be because we <have moved unadvisedly and> have stirred up animosity and strife, and by uttering things that will close up our way before our work is done.
We are to go forward in the name of the Lord, unfurling His banner, advocating His Word, <the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus Christ.> When the authorities command that we shall not do this work, when they forbid us to proclaim the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, it will be time enough for us to say as did the apostles, “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have received and heard.” [Acts 4:19, 20.] Let the truth of God’s Holy Word be made manifest. Hold up the Scriptures as the rule of life. My dear brother, you need to give your attention fully to proclaiming the truth as it is in Jesus, and as it is applicable <as present truth> to the situation of these last days. In all modesty, in the spirit of grace, and in the love of God, point out the fact to perishing souls that the Lord God is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord.
The less you make direct charges against authorities and powers, the greater work you will be able to accomplish in America and in foreign countries. Foreign nations will follow the example of America. Though she lead out, yet the same crisis will come upon all our people in all parts of the world. The Holy Spirit alone will be able to make the word you speak effective. Victory will be gained and held only through the Spirit’s power. The human agent must be worked by the Holy Spirit. The workers must be kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. They must have divine wisdom in order not to utter anything that will by any means stir men up to make extra efforts to close up our way.
It is not our work to continually <charge> against governments and rulers. Through the inculcation of spiritual truth, we are to prepare a people who shall be able to give a reason for their faith in meekness and fear <before the highest authorities in our world.> How greatly we need to present the truth in its simplicity, to advocate practical godliness, personal holiness, and to do this in the gentleness of Christ. The manifestation of such a spirit will have <the very best influence upon our own souls, and> a convincing influence upon those who hear. Give the Lord a chance to work through His own human agents. <Let everyone in responsible positions remove their> hands of authority, and let God work as He will. Do not imagine that it will be possible to lay out your plans for the future.
Let God be acknowledged as standing at the helm to guide and control <at all times and> under every circumstance. He will work by means that will be suitable and will maintain, increase, and build up His own people. His agents should have a <sanctified> zeal that is wholly under His control. Stormy times will come rapidly <enough> upon us, without our taking any <special> course <of our own> that will hasten them. Tribulation will come <of> such <a character> as will drive <all those> to God who wish to be His and His alone. We do not know ourselves until we are tested and proved in the furnace of trial, and it is not proper for us to seek to measure the characters of men and condemn those who have not yet had the light of truth. Many who have not the privileges that we have had will go into heaven before those who have had great light, and who have not walked in it.
Many have lived up to the best light they have had, and will be judged accordingly. But the Lord requires those who have had light to walk as children of light. They are to manifest His compassion toward those who have not had the truth. If we wish to impress upon those who are in error, and who occupy high positions, that the truth we believe sanctifies the soul and transforms the character, let us not be continually charging them with vehement accusations, <for we are in danger of having a zeal that is not according to knowledge.> In this way we will force the <opposing elements> to the conclusion that the doctrine we profess cannot be the Christian doctrine, as it does not make us kind, courteous, and respectful, but <has an influence to make us> manifest roughness and unkindness. Christianity is not manifested in pugilistic accusations and condemnations.
Some who are now so ready to take up weapons of warfare, in times of real peril will make manifest the fact that they have not built upon the solid Rock <themselves,> and they will yield to temptation. Our mission is set forth by the apostle when he says, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light: which in the past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles, that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may by your good works which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” [1 Peter 2:9-12.]
Our work is a most solemn one. We are in danger of presenting to our own brethren, and to those who are ignorant of our faith, themes that are <not in season and that are> objectionable, ideas that are not likely to attract to the truth as it is in Jesus Christ. In doing [it] this way we may create <our own selves> stumbling blocks which may greatly <hedge> up the progress of the truth in the most important centers. <Quietly work. Let unbelievers make the raid.> Satan is presenting every worldly attraction to allure the souls of men. The churches are teaching for doctrine the commandments of men. Ministers in <their churches> are declaring that there is no law. But many do not see their error, nor understand that if there is no law there is no sin in the world, for sin is the transgression of the law.
To those who are in error, to those who are in sin and ignorance, we must proclaim the truth as it is in Jesus in all simplicity. The last message of warning and of mercy is ours to give to the world. We must bring the truth into [the] practical life, we must be one with our brethren, that the prayer of Christ which He uttered just before His humiliation and crucifixion, will be answered. The love of God, the love of our brethren, will testify to the world that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. As trials thicken around us, separation and unity will both take place in our ranks. Those who have had great light and precious privileges, and who have not improved them, will go out from us under one pretext or another, <for all will be tested.> Not receiving the love of the truth, they will be taken in the delusion of the enemy, they will give heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils, and will depart from the faith. But on the other hand, when the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd’s voice.
Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and those who have strayed away from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present a united front to the enemy. <Dissension and variance are the work of the enemy.> In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease, and there will be no more disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest! No one of the true believers will say, I am of Paul, or I am of Apollos, or I of Cephas. The testimony of one and all will be, I cleave unto Christ, I rejoice in Christ as my personal Saviour.
But now how careful should we be not to say or do anything that will place us in a position where our actions may be interpreted as disloyal and lawless, <for this will be working against the truth.> The time will come when unguarded expressions of a denunciatory character, that have been <carelessly> spoken or written by our brethren, will be made use of by our enemies to condemn us. These will not be used merely to condemn those who have made the statements, but will be charged upon the whole body of Adventists. They will say, On such and such a day one of their responsible men said thus and so against the administration of the laws of this government.
Many will be astonished to see how many things have been cherished and remembered that will give point to the arguments of our adversaries. Many will be surprised to hear their own words strained into a meaning that they never designed them to have. Then how careful should our workers be that they do not speak impulsively, but that they speak guardedly in all things. Let all be careful lest by unguarded statements they bring on a time of trouble before the crisis comes that will try men’s souls.
God will be with us in the work of proclaiming the truth as it is in Jesus. Preach the Word, be instant in season and out of season. Let gospel lessons be given in so simple a way that even children may comprehend their meaning. Children should have far more attention than they have received. Many of our people are in danger of exercising controlling power upon others, and of bringing oppression upon their fellow men. But those who handle sacred things should be under the special guidance of the Holy Spirit, in order that they may be doers of the words of Christ.
We should heed the lesson given by Christ to His disciples when they came unto Him saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” “And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come: but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh. …
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of man is come to save that which is lost. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, He rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:1-7, 10-14.]
There is danger that those who are entrusted with responsibilities will acknowledge but one power—the power of an unsanctified will. Some are exercising this power unscrupulously, and are causing great discomfiture to those whom the Lord is using. One of the greatest curses in our world, and it is seen in churches and in society everywhere, is the love of supremacy. Men become absorbed in seeking to attain popularity. It is in the ranks of Sabbath keepers to our grief and shame. But spiritual success comes only to those who have learned meekness and lowliness of heart in the school of Christ.
We should remember that the world will judge us for what we appear to be. Let those who would represent Christ be careful that they do not exhibit inconsistent features <of character.> When we bring ourselves fully to the front, let us see to it that the Holy Ghost is poured upon us from on high. When this is the case, we shall give a certain message, but it will be of a far less condemnatory character than that <which some> have been giving, and all who believe will be far more earnest for the salvation of our opponents. Let God have the matter of condemning authorities and governments, wholly in His own keeping. Let us defend <as faithful sentinels> the principles of the truth as it is in Jesus in the spirit of meekness and love.
The one thing needful to be found among the ranks of God’s professed, commandment-keeping people, is peace and love. Where love is lacking, irretrievable loss is sustained, for souls are driven away from the truth, even after they have been connected with the cause of God. Our brethren who are in responsible positions, who have strength of influence, should remember <the words of> Paul, “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of those that are weak and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbor for his good edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me.” [Romans 15:1-3.] Again he says, “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness: considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” [Galatians 6:1, 2.]
Bear in mind that the restoring <work> is to be <our burden,> not in a proud, officious, masterly manner. Do not do <the work> as saying by your manner, “I have the power, and I will use it,” and pour out accusations upon the erring one. Do your restoring, “in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” [Verse 1.] The work set before us to do for our brethren is never to cast them aside, not to press them into hopeless discouragement, not to drive them into despair by saying, “You have disappointed me, and I will not try to help you.”
He who sets himself up as full of wisdom and strength, and bears down upon one who is oppressed and distressed and longing for help, manifests the spirit of the Pharisees, and wraps himself about with the robes of his own self-constituted dignity. In his spirit he thanks God that he is not as other men are, and supposed that his course is praise worthy, and that he is too strong to be tempted. “If a man think himself to be something when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.” [Verse 3.] He is in constant danger himself. He who ignores the grave necessities of his brother in the providence of God will be brought over the <very same> ground that his brother has traveled in trial and sorrow. And by a bitter experience it will be proved to him that he is as helpless and needy as was the suffering brother he repulsed.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption, but he that soweth to the spirit, shall of the spirit reap life everlasting.” The character of the sowing is plainly set forth in the following verse: “And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” [Verses 7-9.] Will it not pay us to put far from us the spirit that would cause us to discourage and destroy those who feel wretched, miserable, wounded, and bruised by our course of action toward them?
Is it not a good and gracious work to restore and heal those who are broken in heart? Let us not bring ourselves under the rebuke of God. “Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works: or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” “I know thy works that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent, If therefore thou shalt not watch I will come upon thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Revelation 2:4, 5; 3:1-3.]
Let us not take a course that will make these Scriptures applicable to ourselves. Would it not be well for us to be jealous of ourselves, and to become doers of the Word of God? “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels of mercy, fulfill ye my joy that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 2:1-5.]
Who are doers of the words of Christ, and not hearers only? How many live up to the profession they make? If we would draw men from the pit of sin, we ourselves must have a firm platform beneath our feet. The closer we keep to Christ, the more meek and lowly, the more self-distrustful, the firmer will be our hold upon Christ, and the greater will be our power through Christ to convert sinners, for it is not the human agent who moves the soul. Heavenly intelligences co-operate with the human agent, and impress the truth upon the heart. Abiding in Christ, we are able to exercise an influence over others, but it is because of the presence of Him who says, “Lo I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
The power we have to overcome Satan is the result of Christ working in us to will and to do of His good pleasure. The truth should be presented with divine tact, gentleness, tenderness, and come from a heart that has been softened and made sympathetic. Only such will be enabled to reach those who are approachable, <to save those who are in deceptions and error.> We need to have close communion with God lest self rise up as it did in Jehu, lest we pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting <to be connected with the truth, words> that are not as dew and as the still showers that fall upon the withering plants to revive them. Let our words be gentle as we seek to win souls. God will be wisdom to him who seeks for wisdom from a divine source. We are to seek opportunities on every hand; we are to watch unto prayer, and be ready always to give a reason for the hope that is within us with meekness and fear.
Lest we shall impress some <soul for whom Christ died> unfavorably, we should keep our hearts uplifted to God, so that when the opportunity presents itself, we may have the right word to speak at the right time. Thus you will undertake work for God, and the Spirit of God will help those who are workers for Him. The Holy Spirit will apply the word that is spoken in love to the soul. But let it be understood that no good is accomplished when the voice or the pen expresses that which is harsh, or even expresses the truth in a harsh manner. Let the region of human passion be passed by, lest the truth be misapprehended, misinterpreted, and misconstrued. The truth will have quickening power that is spoken under the full <influence> of the grace of Christ. God’s plan is first to reach the heart. Speak the truth and let him carry forward the reformatory power and principle; but let us not work according to our own individual impulse.
What matter of good can be accomplished for souls who are in darkness by castigating them with denunciations? Those who have not a knowledge of the truth, who are blinded and warped in judgment, do not understand what it means. Speak the truth in love. Let the tenderness of Christ come in to the soul. Make no special reference to what opponents say; but let the truth alone be spoken—“It is written.” The truth will cut to the quick. Let not your own spirit and passions mingle with the truth as common fire with the sacred flame. Plainly unfold the Word in all its impressiveness.
Many who are now the bitterest opponents of truth are acting up to their honest convictions of duty, but they will yet see the truth and become its warm advocates. Those who now treat them with ridicule, who manifest a harsh spirit toward them, will fall under temptation and bring reproach upon the cause of God and cause the loss of souls through their indiscretion. Many who go into the field at the call made at the eleventh hour will, through the grace of Christ, so present the truth that they will be accounted first.
We are not to voice inconsistency. It is our work to advance the light, to inculcate ideas in the spirit of meekness and dependence upon God. We are to leave issues with God. Let us seek to become overcomers, and thus receive the overcomers’ reward. Do all in your power to reflect light, to bring souls to a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, but abstain from speaking irritating and provoking words. Present the truth in its simplicity, for it must be confessed before men as it involves their eternal interest.
<This letter was written last May but we could not get it copied before it was edited.>
Lt 47, 1895
Kellogg, J. H., and all others concerned
Norfolk Villa, Granville, New South Wales, Australia
March 21, 1895
Dr. J. H. Kellogg, and all others concerned
Battle Creek, Michigan, U. S. A
Dear Brethren:
I have been much perplexed for several nights. I am troubled so that I am unable to sleep well. Things are being urged upon my attention which I must present before you.
Dr. Kellogg and the teachers in our schools at Battle Creek must be one the guard constantly, lest their plans and management shall depress and quench the faith of students who have had their hearts deeply impressed by the Holy Spirit. They have heard the voice of Jesus saying, Son, “Go work today in my vineyard.” [Matthew 21:28.] They feel the need of a proper course of study, that they may be prepared to labor for he Master, and every effort should be made to hasten their advancement; but the object of their education should be kept constantly in view. Unnecessary delay should not be advised or allowed.
Those persons who have engaged to help sustain the students during their course of studies suffer great loss both in time and money spent unwisely. These people have manifested their earnestness and willingness to help, but they become discouraged as they see the time originally estimated necessary for the students to receive a fitting up for the work, prolonged, and still the students are encouraged to take up another course of study at their expense. Years pass, and still there is urged upon them the necessity of more education. This long-drawn-out process, adding and adding more time, more branches, is one of Satan’s snares to keep laborers back.
The students themselves would not think of such a delay in entering the work if it were not urged upon them by those who are supposed to be shepherds and guardians, [and] who are their teachers and physicians. If we had a thousand years before us, such a depth of knowledge would be uncalled for, although it might be much more appropriated; but now our time is limited. “While it is called today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” [Hebrews 3:13, 15.]
We are not of that class who define the exact period of time that shall elapse before the coming of Jesus the second time with power and great glory. They have set a time, and when that has passed, their presumptuous spirit has not been rebuked, but they have set another and another; but many successive failures have stamped them as false prophets. “The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever.” [Deuteronomy 29:29.] Notwithstanding the fact that there are false prophets, there are also those who [are] preaching the truth as pointed out in the Scriptures. With deep earnestness, with honest faith, prompted by the Holy Spirit, they are stirring minds and hearts by showing them that we are living near the second coming of Christ, but the day and the hour of His appearing is beyond the pen of man, for “of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” [Matthew 24:36.]
But there is a day that God hath appointed for the close of this earth’s history. “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” [Verse 14.] Prophecy is fast fulfilling. More, much more, should be said about these tremendously important subjects. The day is at hand when the destiny of every soul will be fixed forever. This day of the Lord hastens on apace. The false watchmen are raising the cry, “All is well”; but the day of God is rapidly approaching. Its footsteps are so muffled that it does not arouse the world from the deathlike slumber into which it has fallen. While the watchmen cry, “Peace and safety,” “sudden destruction cometh upon them,” “and they shall not escape,” “for as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3; Luke 21:35.] It overtakes the pleasure-lover and the sinful man as a thief in the night. When all is apparently secure, and men retire to contented rest, then the prowling, stealthy, midnight thief steals upon his prey. When it is too late to prevent the evil, it is discovered that some door or window was not secured. “Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.]
People are now settling to rest, imagining themselves secure under the protection of the popular churches, but let all beware lest there is a place left open for the enemy to gain an entrance. Great pains should be taken to keep this subject before the people. The solemn fact is to be kept not only before the people of the world, but our own churches also, that the day of the Lord will come suddenly, unexpectedly. The fearful warning of the prophecy is addressed to every soul. Let no one feel that he is secure from the danger of being surprised. Let no one’s interpretation of prophecy rob you of the conviction of the knowledge of events which shows that this great event is near at hand.
The money which has been expended in additional buildings and in extensions on existing buildings in Battle Creek should have been used for creating facilities for carrying on the work in places where there is nothing being done at all. God is not pleased with the manner in which His goods have been disposed of. There is no respect of places or of persons with Him.
The practice of furnishing a few persons with every advantage of perfecting their education in so many lines that it would be impossible for them to make use of all of them is an injury rather than a benefit to the one who has so many advantages, beside depriving others of the privileges they need so badly. If there were far less of this long continued preparation, far less exclusive devotion to study, there would be much more opportunity for an increase of the student’s faith in God.
He who long devotes all his energies to study alone, becomes fascinated—is actually absorbed in his books, and loses sight of the goal for which he started when he came to the school. I have been shown that some of the students are losing their spirituality; their faith is becoming weak and they do not maintain constant communion with God. They spend nearly all of their time in the perusal of books; they seem to know but little else. But what advantage will all this preparation be to them? What benefit will they derive for all the time and money spent? I tell you, it will be worse than lost. There must be less of this kind of work and more faith in God’s power. God’s commandment-keeping people are to testify to the world of their faith by their works.
When students come to Battle Creek [from] long distances at great expense, to receive instruction as to how to become successful missionaries, that idea is not to be sunk out of sight in a variety of studies. But if they are given more studies than are absolutely necessary, it is calculated to cause them to forget the real object of their coming to Battle Creek. Now is the time when it is essential that only such work as is necessary should be done. Long years of preparation are not a positive necessity. The preparation of the students has been managed on the same principle as have the building operations. Building has been added to building, simply to make things a little more convenient and thorough.
God is calling, and has been calling for years, for a reform on these lines. He desires that there shall be no unnecessary outlay of means. The Lord is not in favor of having so much time and money expended upon a few persons who come to Battle Creek to get a better preparation for the work. In all cases there should be a most careful consideration as to the best manner of expending money in the education of the students. While so much is being spent to put a few through an exhaustive course of study, there are many who are thirsting for the knowledge they could get in a few months; one or two years would be considered a great blessing. If all the means are used in putting a few through several years of study, many just as worthy young men and young women are not assisted at all.
I hope the managers of the Battle Creek school and Sanitarium will consider this matter prayerfully, intelligently, and without partiality. Instead of over-educating a few, enlarge the sphere of your charities. Resolve that the means which you wish to use in educating workers for the cause shall not be expended simply upon one, enabling him to get more than he really needs, while others are left without anything at all. Give students a start, but do not feel that it is your duty to carry them year after year. It is their duty to get out into the field to work, and it is your place to extend your charities to others who are in need of assistance.
Christ’s work was not done in such a way as to dazzle men with His superior abilities. He came forth from the bosom of the All-wise, and could have astonished the world with the great and glorious knowledge which He possessed, yet He was reticent and uncommunicative. It was not His mission to overwhelm them with the immensity of His talents, but to walk in meekness and lowliness, that He might instruct the ignorant in the ways of salvation. Too great devotion to study, even of true science, creates an abnormal appetite, which increases as it is fed. This creates a desire to secure more knowledge than is essential to do the work of the Lord. The pursuit of knowledge merely for its own sake diverts the mind from devotion to God, checks advance along the path of practical holiness, and hinders souls from travelling in the way which leads to a holier, happier life. The Lord Jesus imparted only such a measure of instruction as could be utilized. My brethren, your way of representing the necessity for years of study is not pleasing to God.
The Lord Jesus would have men trade upon their talents, and Jesus has promised that He will give grace for grace. As we impart to others, we will receive more richly. And as we thus labor, the mind will not become clogged with a mass of matter which has been crowded into it with no opportunity to impart what has been received. The student becomes a mental dyspeptic by being crammed with much that he cannot use. Much time has been wasted, and the progressive usefulness of students hindered, by the teaching of that which cannot be utilized by the Spirit of God.
Those who come to the Battle Creek school should be speedily and thoroughly pushed through such a course of study as would be of practical value in the healthy development of the body and holy activity of the soul. In His gospel, God speaks not merely to benefit the growth of the mental capacity of man, but to instruct how the moral senses may be quickened. This is illustrated in the case of Daniel and the three Hebrews. They kept the fear and love of God ever before them, and the result is recorded as follows: “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Daniel 1:17.]
Christ said, “Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” [Luke 11:28.] The bread of life alone can satisfy the hungering soul. The water of life alone will quench the thirst of the thirsty soul. The minds of the disciples were often excited by curiosity, but instead of gratifying their desire to know things which were not necessary for the proper conduct of their work, He opened new channels of thought to their minds. He gave them much needed instruction upon practical godliness.
The many branches which students are induced to take up in their studies, holding them from the work for years, are not in the order of God. Christ came to seek and to save that which was lost. When He said, “Follow me,” He assumed the position of instructor. All the light He brought to men from heaven is to be used in revealing to men the pit of destruction into which they have been plunged by their sins, and to point out to them the only path which can be traveled with hope of reaching a place of safety. The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness are shining upon this path, and the wayfaring man, though a fool, need not err therein. Those who come to Battle Creek are not to be encouraged to absorb several years in study.
Intemperance in study is a species of intoxication, and those who indulge in it, like the drunkard, wander from safe paths, and stumble and fall in the darkness. The Lord would have every student bear in mind that the eye must be kept single to the glory of God. They are not to exhaust and waste their physical and mental powers in seeking to acquire all possible knowledge of the sciences; but every individual is to preserve the freshness and vigor of all his powers to engage in the work which the Lord has appointed him in helping souls to find the path of righteousness. All must preserve the vigor of their lives, their soul-energy and ambitions, and prepare to leave their studies in school and take up the more practical studies in the sphere of activity, where angels cooperate with them. The intelligences of heaven will work through the human agents. The command of heaven is to do, work—do something which will reflect glory to God by being a benefit to our fellow men who are ready to perish.
There is great danger that students in the schools will fail of learning the all-important lesson which our Master would have them taught. This lesson is conveyed to us in the following scripture: “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; for my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] Some have not only failed to learn to bear the yoke of the meek and lowly Jesus, but have been unable to stand against the temptations which have surrounded them. Inexperienced youth who have journeyed long distances to obtain the advantages of an education at our school have lost their hold upon Jesus. These things ought not so to be.
The Lord does not choose or accept laborers according to the numerous advantages which they have enjoyed, or according to the superior education which they have received. The value of the human agent is estimated according to the capacity of the heart to know and understand God. “Thou, therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” [2 Timothy 2:1-3.] The highest possible good is obtained through a knowledge of God. “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.]
This knowledge is the secret spring from which flows all power. It is through the exercise of the faculty of faith that we are enabled to receive and practice the Word of God. No excuse can be accepted, not plea of justification received for the failure to know and understand the will of the Lord. The Lord will enlighten the heart that is loyal to Him. He can read the thoughts and intents of the heart. It is useless to plead that if it had been so and so, we would have done so and so. There is no if about God’s requirements; His word is yea and amen. There can be no question in the heart of faith as to the power of God to perform His promises. True faith works by love and purifies the soul.
To the distressed father, seeking for the tender love and pity of Christ to be exercised in behalf of his afflicted son, Jesus said. “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” [Mark 9:23.] All things are possible with God, and by faith we may lay hold on His power. But faith is not sight; faith is not feeling; faith is not reality. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] To abide in faith is to put aside feeling and selfish desires, to walk humbly with the Lord, to appropriate His promises, [and] apply them to all occasions, believing that God will work out his own plans and purposes in your heart and life by the sanctification of your character; it is to rely entirely, to trust implicitly, upon the faithfulness of God. If this course is followed, others will see the special fruits of the Spirit manifested in the life and character.
The education received by Moses, as the king’s grandson, was very thorough. Nothing was neglected that was calculated to make him a wise man, as the Egyptians understood wisdom. This education was a help to him in many respects, but the most valuable part of his fitting for his life work was that received while employed as a shepherd. As he led his flocks through the wilds of the mountains and into the green pastures in the valleys, the God of nature taught him the highest and grandest wisdom. In the school of nature, with Christ Himself for teacher, He <contemplated and> learned lessons of humility, meekness, faith, and trust, and of a humble manner of living, all of which bound his soul closer to God. In the solitude of the mountains he learned that which all his instruction in the king’s palace was unable to impart to him—simple, unwavering faith, and constant trust in the Lord.
Moses supposed that his education in the wisdom of Egypt had fully qualified him to lead Israel from bondage. Was not he learned in all the things necessary for a general of armies? Had he not had the greatest advantages of the best schools in the land? Yes, he felt that he was able to deliver them. He first set about his work by trying to gain the favor of his own people by redressing their wrongs. He killed an Egyptian who was imposing upon one of his brethren. In this he manifested the spirit of him who was a murderer from the beginning, and proved himself unfit to represent the God of mercy, love, and tenderness. He made a miserable failure of his first attempt. Like many another, he then immediately lost his confidence in God, and turned his back upon his appointed work; he fled from the wrath of Pharaoh. He concluded that because of his mistake, his great sin in taking the life of the cruel Egyptian, God would not permit him to have any part in the work of delivering His people from their cruel bondage. But the Lord permitted these things that He might be able to teach him the gentleness, goodness, long-suffering, which it is necessary for every laborer for the Master to possess, for it is these characteristics that constitute the successful workman in the Lord’s cause.
A knowledge of the attributes of the character of Christ Jesus cannot be obtained by means of the highest education in the most scientific schools. This wisdom is learned from the great Teacher alone. The lessons of Christlike meekness, lowliness of heart, reverence for sacred things, are taught nowhere effectively except in the school of Christ. Moses had been taught to expect flattery and praise because of his supposed abilities; but now he was to learn a different lesson.
As a shepherd of sheep, Moses was taught to care for the afflicted, to nurse the sick, to patiently seek after the straying, to bear long with the unruly, to supply with loving solicitude the wants of the young lambs and the necessities of the old and feeble. As these phases of his character were developed, he was drawn nearer to his Chief Shepherd. He became united to, submerged in, the Holy One of Israel. He believed in the great God. He held communion with the Father through humble prayer. He looked to the Highest for an education in spiritual things, and for a knowledge of his duty as a faithful shepherd. His life became so closely linked with heaven that God talked with him face to face.
Thus prepared, he was ready to heed the call of God to exchange his shepherd’s crook for the rod of authority, to leave his flock of sheep to take the leadership of more than a million idolatrous, rebellious people. But he was to depend upon the invisible Leader. Even as the rod was simply an instrument in his hand, so was he to be a willing instrument to be worked by the hand of Jesus Christ. Moses was selected to be the shepherd of God’s own people, and it was through his firm faith and abiding trust in the Lord that so many blessings reached the children of Israel. The Lord Jesus seeks the co-operation of such men as will become unobstructed channels through which the riches of heaven may be poured out upon the people of His love. He works through man for the uplifting and salvation of His chosen.
Moses was called to labor in co-partnership with the Lord, and it was the simplicity of his character, combined with a practical education, that constituted him such a representative man. In the very height of his human glory the Lord permitted Moses to reveal the foolishness of man’s wisdom, the weakness of human strength, that he might be led to understand his utter helplessness, and his inefficiency without being upheld by the Lord Jesus.
The rashness of Moses in slaying the Egyptian was prompted by a presumptuous spirit. Faith moves in the strength and wisdom of God, and not in the ways of men. By simple faith Moses was enabled to press through difficulties and overcome obstacles which seemed almost insurmountable. When they relied upon Him, not trusting to their own power, the Mighty General of armies was faithful to Israel. He delivered them from many difficulties from which they could never have escaped if left to themselves. God was able to manifest His great power through Moses because of his constant faith in that power and in the loving intentions of their Deliverer. It was this implicit faith in God that made Moses what he was. “According to all that the Lord commanded him, so did he.” [Exodus 40:16.] All the learning of the wise men could not make him a channel through which the Lord could labor, however, until he lost his self-confidence, realized his own helplessness, and put his trust in God; until he was willing to obey God’s commands whether they seemed to his human reason to be proper or not.
Those persons who refuse to move forward until they see every step plainly marked out before them will never accomplish much; but every man who shows his faith and trust in God by willingly submitting himself to Him, enduring the divine discipline imposed, will become a successful workman for the Master of the vineyard. In their efforts to qualify themselves to be co-laborers with God, men frequently place themselves in such positions as will completely disqualify them for the molding and fashioning which the Lord desires to give them. Thus they are not found bearing, as did Moses, the divine similitude.
By submitting to God’s discipline, Moses became a sanctified channel through which the Lord could work. He did not hesitate to change his way for the Lord’s way, even though it did lead in strange paths, in untried ways. He did not permit himself to make use of his education by showing the unreasonableness of God’s commands, and the impossibility of obeying them. No; he placed a very low estimate upon his own qualifications to successfully complete the great work which the Lord had given him. When he started on his mission to deliver the people of God from their bondage, to all human appearances it was a most hopeless undertaking; but he confided in Him with whom all things are possible.
Many in our day have had far better opportunities, enjoyed far greater privileges for obtaining a knowledge of God, than did Moses, but his faith puts to shame their manifest unbelief. At the command of God, Moses advanced, although there was nothing ahead for his feet to tread upon. More than a million people were depending upon him, but he led them forward step by step, day by day. God permitted these lonely travels through the wilderness that they might obtain an experience in enduring hardships, and so that when they were in peril, they might know that there was relief and deliverance in God alone, and that thus they might learn to know and to trust God, and to serve Him with a living faith. It was not the teachings of the schools of Egypt that enabled Moses to triumph over all his enemies, but an ever abiding faith, an unflinching faith, a faith that did not fail under the most trying circumstances.
When God commanded Moses to do anything, he did it without stopping to study what the consequences might be. He gave God credit for wisdom to know what He meant and firmness of purpose to mean what He said; and therefore [Moses] acted as seeing the Invisible. God is not seeking for men of perfect education. His work is not to wait while His servants go through such wonderfully elaborate preparations as our schools are planning to give; but the Lord wants men who appreciate the privilege of being laborers together with God, and who will honor Him by rendering implicit obedience to His requirements regardless of previously inculcated theories.
There is no limit to the usefulness of one who puts self to one side, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart, and lives a life wholly sanctified to the service of God, enduring the necessary discipline imposed by the Lord without complaining or fainting by the way. If they will not faint at the rebuke of the Lord and become hard-hearted and stubborn, the Lord will teach both young and old, hour by hour, day by day. He longs to reveal His salvation to the children of men, and if His chosen people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the water of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels.
Many who are seeking efficiency for the exalted work of God by perfecting their education in the schools of men will find that they have failed of learning the more important lessons which the Lord would teach them. By neglecting to submit themselves to the impressions of the Holy Spirit, by not living in obedience to all God’s requirements, their spiritual efficiency has become weakened; they have lost what ability they had to do successful work for the Lord. By absenting themselves from the school of Christ, they have forgotten the sound of the voice of the Teacher, and He cannot direct their course. Men may acquire all the knowledge possible to be imparted by the human teacher, but there is still greater wisdom required of them by God. Like Moses, they must learn meekness, lowliness of heart, and distrust of self. Our Saviour Himself, bearing the test for humanity, acknowledged that of Himself He could do nothing. We must also learn that there is no strength in humanity alone. Man becomes efficient only by becoming a partaker of the divine nature.
From the first opening of a book, the candidate for an education should recognize God as the One who imparts true wisdom. He should seek His counsel at every step along the way. No arrangement should be made to which God cannot be made a party, no union formed of which He is not the approver. The Author of wisdom should be recognized as the Guide from first to last. In this manner the knowledge obtained from books will be bound off by a living faith in the infinite God. The student should permit himself to be bound down to any particular course of studies involving long periods of time, but should be guided in such matters by the Spirit of God.
A course of study at Ann Arbor may be thought essential for some; but evil influences are there ever at work upon susceptible minds that the farther they advance in their studies, the less they deem it necessary to seek a knowledge of the will and ways of God. None should be allowed to pursue a course of study that may in any way weaken their faith in the truth and in the Lords power, or diminish their respect for a life of holiness. I would warn the students not to advance one step in these lines—not even upon the advice of their instructors or men in positions of authority—unless they have first sought God individually, with their hearts thrown open to the influence of the Holy Spirit, and obtained His counsel concerning the contemplated course of study.
Let every selfish desire to distinguish yourselves be set aside; take every suggestion from humanity to God, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit; every unholy ambition should be blotted out, lest the Lord shall say, “I saw the foolish taking root: but suddenly I cursed his habitation.” [Job 5:3.] Every one should move so that he can say, “Thou, O Lord, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried mine heart toward thee.” [Jeremiah 12:3.] “Thou God seest me.” [Genesis 16:13.] The Lord weighs every motive. He is a discerner of the thoughts and intents and purposes of the heart. Without God we are without hope; therefore let us fix our faith upon Him. “Thou art my hope, O Lord God: thou art my trust from my youth.” [Psalm 71:5.]
Every ship sailing the sea of life needs to have the divine Pilot on board; but when storms arise, when tempests threaten, many persons push their Pilot overboard, and commit their bark to the hand of finite man, or try to steer it themselves; disaster and wreckage generally follow. Then the Pilot is blamed for running them into such dangerous waters. Do not commit yourselves into the keeping of men, but say, “The Lord is my helper”; I will seek His counsel; I will be a doer of his will. [Hebrews 13:6.] All the advantages you may have cannot be a blessing to you, neither can the highest class of education qualify you to become a channel of light, unless you have the co-operation of the divine Spirit.
It is as impossible for us to receive qualification from man, without the divine enlightenment, as it was for the gods of Egypt to deliver those who trusted in them. Students must not suppose that every suggestion for them to prolong their studies is in harmony with God’s plan. Let every such suggestion be taken to the Lord in prayer. Seek earnestly for His guidance—not only once, but again and again. Plead with Him until you are convinced whether the counsel is of God or man. Do not trust yourself to men. Act under the divine Guide.
You have been chosen by Christ. You have been redeemed by the precious blood of the Lamb. Plead before God the efficacy of that blood. Say unto Him, “I am thine by creation. I am thine by redemption. I respect human authority and the advice of my brethren, but I cannot depend wholly upon these. I want thee, O God, to teach me. I have covenanted with Thee to adopt the divine standard of character, to make Thee my Counselor and Guide, a party to every plan of my life; therefore teach me.” Let the glory of the Lord be your first consideration. Repress every desire for distinction, every ambition to secure the first place. Encourage heart purity and holiness, that you may represent the true principles of the gospel. Let every act of your life be sanctified by a holy endeavor to do the Lord’s will, that your influence may not lead others into forbidden paths. When God is your leader, His righteousness shall go before thee, and the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.
The Lord says, “Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” [Mark 14:38.] The advice of your own brethren may cause you to swerve from the path which the Lord has marked out for you to walk in, for the minds of men are not always under the control of the Holy Spirit. “Watch” lest your studies shall accumulate to such proportions, and become of such absorbing interest to you, that you mind shall be overburdened, and the desire for godliness be crushed out of your soul. With many students the motive and sin which caused them to enter school has gradually been lost sight of, and an unholy ambition to secure a high class education has led them to sacrifice the truth. Their intense desire to secure a high place among men has caused them to leave the will of their Heavenly Father out of their calculations; but true knowledge leads to holiness of life through the sanctification of the truth.
Too often, as the studies accumulate, the wisdom from above has been given a secondary place, and the further advanced the student becomes, the less confidence he has in God; he considers that much learning is the very essence of success in life; but if all would give due consideration to the statement of Christ, they would make different plans. “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] Without the vital principles of true religion, without knowledge of how to serve and glorify the Redeemer, education is more harmful than beneficial. When education in human lines is pushed to such an extent that the love of God wanes in the heart, that prayer is neglected, and that there is a failure to cultivate spiritual attributes, it is wholly disastrous. It would be far better to cease seeking to obtain an education, and to recover your soul from its languishing condition, than to gain the best of educations, and lose sight of eternal advantages.
There are many who are crowding too many studies into a limited period of time. They are over working their mental powers, and as a consequence they see many things in a perverted light. They are not content in following the prescribed course of study, but feel that injustice is done them when, in their selfish ambition, they are not permitted to carry all the studies that they desire to carry. They become unbalanced in mind. They do not consider the fact that they would obtain a better qualification for the work of the Master if they would pursue a course that would not work injury to their physical, mental, and moral powers; but in overburdening the mind, they bring upon themselves lifelong, physical infirmities that cripple their powers, and unfit them for future usefulness.
I would not in any case counsel restriction of the education to which God has set no limit. Our education does not end with the advantages that this world can give. Through all eternity the chosen of God will be learners. But I would advise restriction in following those methods of education which imperil the soul and defeat the purpose for which time and money are expended. Education is a grand lifework, but to obtain true education, it is necessary to possess that wisdom that cometh alone from God. The Lord God should be represented in every phase of education, but it is a mistake to devote a period of years to the study of one line of book knowledge.
After a period of time has been devoted to study, let no one advise students to enter again upon a line of study, but rather let them advise them to enter upon the work for which they have been studying. Let them be advised to put into practice the theories they have gained. Daniel pursued this course in Babylon. He put into practical use that which he had learned under tutors. Let students seek heavenly direction much more than they have done hitherto, and let them make no move, even though it be advised by their teachers, unless they have most humbly sought wisdom from God, and have received His guidance and counsel.
Students are authorized to go to school for a certain length of time in order to acquire scientific knowledge; but in doing this they should ever consider their physical necessities, and seek their education in such a way as not to injure in the least the temple of the body. Let them be sure not to indulge in any sinful practice, not to laden themselves with too many studies, not to become so absorbed in devotion to their studies that the truth shall be supplanted, the knowledge of God expelled from the soul by the inventions of men. Let every moment that is devoted to study be a moment in which the soul is conscious of its God-given responsibilities. There will be no need then of enjoining the students to be true and just, and to preserve their soul’s integrity. They will breathe a heavenly atmosphere, and every transaction will be inspired by the Holy Spirit, and equity and righteousness will be revealed.
But if the body is neglected, if unsuitable hours are consumed in study, if their mind is overtaxed, if the physical powers are left unemployed and become enfeebled, then the human machinery is trammeled, and matters that are essential for our future welfare and eternal peace are neglected. Book-knowledge is made all important, and God is dishonored. The student forgets the words of inspiration, and does not follow the instruction of the Lord when he says, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:1, 2.]
The minds of many need to be renewed, transformed, and molded after God’s plan. Many are ruining themselves physically, mentally, and morally, by overdevotion to study. They are defrauding themselves for time and eternity through practicing habits of intemperance in seeking to gain an education. They are losing their desire to learn, in the school of Christ, lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart. Every moment that passes is fraught with eternal results. Integrity will be the sure result of following in the way of righteousness.
Is it necessary that in order to solve the problem of education one must commit robbery toward God, and refuse to give to God the willing service of the powers of spirit, soul, and body? God calls upon you to be doers of His Word, in order that you may be thoroughly educated in the principles that will give you a fitness for heaven. No method of education should be followed that will crowd out the Word of God. Let the Word of God be the man of your counsel. The purpose of education should be to take in light in order that you may impart light by letting it shine forth to others in good works.
The highest of all education is the knowledge of God. “Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exerciseth lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.” [Jeremiah 9:23, 24.] Read the first and second chapters of 1 Corinthians with deep interest, and pray that God will give you understanding so that you may comprehend and put into practice the truths there revealed.
“For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things that are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things of the world, and things that are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are, that no flesh should glory in his sight. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God was made unto us, wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: that, according as it is written, he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 1:26-31.] “The Lord is exalted; for he dwelleth on high: he hath filled Zion with judgment and righteousness. And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation. The fear of the Lord is his treasure.” [Isaiah 33:5, 6.]
Time is short, and there are but few workers in the vineyard of the Lord. Several have been sent from this part of the world to be educated at Battle Creek, in order that they may become laborers together with God. It was hoped that the Holy Spirit would work with them for the salvation of those who are in the shadow of death. These students have been supported by the sacrifices of men and women who, to my certain knowledge, have hired money to pay their tuition and to cover their expenses. The world is to be warned, and yet you have thought it necessary to consume time and money in making an unnecessary large preparation for the work that these students may be called upon to do. The same God lives today that Isaiah saw in his vision, and can give enlightenment to those who are acting a part in the work of fitting men for a solemn, sacred work. He says, “I the Lord love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offerings, and I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.” [Isaiah 61:8.]
Those who are directing in the work of education are placing too large an amount of study before those who have come to Battle Creek to fit up for the work of the Master. They have supposed that it was necessary for them to go deeper and deeper into educational lines; and while they are pursuing various courses of study, year after year of precious time is passing away, and golden opportunities are flitting by never to return. There is procrastination in setting these men to work; and students are losing their burden for souls, and are depending more and more upon an education in book knowledge, rather than upon the efficiency of the Holy Spirit, and upon that which the Lord has promised to do for them.
This burden has been upon me for years. A course is being pursued at Battle Creek such as the Lord does not approve. The end of all things is at hand. The day of distress, of anguish, of plague, [of] retribution, of judgment for sin, is coming upon the world as a thief in the night. The time is near when sudden destruction shall come upon the world, and they shall not escape. I have a word of warning for you. You are viewing things in altogether too feeble a light, and far too much from a merely human standpoint. A very small portion of God’s great moral vineyard has yet been worked. Only a few, comparatively, have received the last message of mercy that is to be given to the world.
Students are led to suppose that their efficiency depends upon their education and training; but the success of the work does not depend upon the amount of knowledge men have in scientific studies. The thought to be kept before the student is that time is short and that they must make speedy preparation for doing the work that is essential for this time. Every man, in and through the grace given him of God, is to do the work, not depending on his human smartness or ability, for God can remove human ability in a moment. Let each one in the strength of the living Saviour, who today is our Advocate in the courts of heaven, strive to do the will of God.
I am bidden to say to you that you know not how soon the crisis may come. It is stealing gradually upon us as a thief. The sun shines in the heavens, passing over its usual round, and the heavens still declare the glory of God; men are still pursuing their usual course of eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying and giving in marriage; merchants are still engaging in buying and selling; publications are still being issues one upon another; men are jostling one against another, seeking to get the highest place; pleasure lovers are still attending theatres, horse races, gambling halls, and the highest excitement prevails; yet probation’s hour is fast closing, and every case is about to be eternally decided.
There are few who believe with heart and soul that we have a heaven to win and a hell to shun; but these few show their faith by their works. The signs of Christ’s coming are fast fulfilling. Satan sees that he has but a short time in which to work, and he has set his satanic agencies at work to stir the elements of the world in order that men may be deceived, deluded, and kept occupied and entranced until the day of probation shall be ended and the door be forever shut.
The kingdom of this world have not yet become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ. Do not deceive yourselves; be wide awake, and move rapidly, for the night cometh, in which no man can work. Do not encourage students, who come to you burdened for the work of saving their fellow men, to enter upon course after course of study. Do not lengthen out the time for obtaining an education to many years. By this course they suppose that there is time enough, and this very plan proves a snare to their souls.
Many are better prepared, have more spiritual discrimination and knowledge of God, and know more of His requirements, when they enter upon a course of study, than when they graduate. They become inspired with an ambition to become learned men, and are encouraged to add to their studies until they become infatuated. They make their books an idol, and are willing to sacrifice health and spirituality in order to obtain an education. They limit the time which they should devote to prayer, and fail to improve the opportunities which they have to do good, and do not communicate light and knowledge.
They fail to put to use the knowledge which they have already obtained, and do not advance in the science of winning souls. Missionary work becomes less and less desirable, while the passion to excel in book knowledge increases abnormally. In pursuing their studies, they separate from the God of wisdom. Some congratulate them on their advance, and encourage them to take degree after degree, even though they are less qualified to do the work of God after Christ’s manner of instruction than they were before they entered the school at Battle Creek.
The question was asked those assembled, “Do you believe the truth? do you believe the third angel’s message? If you do believe, then act your faith, and do not encourage men to continue in Battle Creek when they should be away from that place doing their Master’s business.” The Lord is not glorified in this procrastination. Men go to Battle Creek and receive a far higher idea of their capabilities than they should. They are encouraged to take a long, protracted course of study, but God’s way is not in it. It does not have a heavenly endorsement.
Brother Pomare should have been in his field of labor long ago. He should have been working for his own people long before this, and he would have been better fitted to do the work some time ago than he is new, since being carried forward, and freighted with educational advantages of which he can make no use. Precious, probationary time will not permit of your long, protracted years of drill. God calls, will you hear His voice as He says, “Go work today in my vineyard”? [Matthew 21:28.] Now, just now, is the time to work. Do you believe that the Lord is coming, and that the last great crisis is about to break upon the world?
There will soon be a sudden change in God’s dealings. The world in its perversity is being visited by casualties, by floods, storms, fires, earthquakes, famines, wars, and bloodshed. The Lord is slow to answer, and greater in power, yet he will not at all acquit the wicked. “The Lord hath his way in the whirlwind, and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.” [Nahum 1:3.] O that men might understand the patience and longsuffering of God! He is putting under constraint His own attributes. His omnipotent power is under the control of Omnipotence. O that men would understand that God refuses to be wearied out with the world’s perversity, and still holds out the hope of forgiveness even to the most undeserving. But his forbearance will not always continue. Who is prepared for the sudden change that will take place in God’s dealing with sinful men? Who will be prepared to escape the punishment that will certainly fall upon transgressors?
I beseech of you to leave every ambitious project, and to study the Bible. Pray that God will give you the Holy Spirit to quicken your understanding. With all your supposed knowledge, the day of the Lord will come upon you as a thief in the night. We have not a temporal millennium in which to do the work of warning the world. There is need of transformation of soul. The most effective intelligence that can be obtained will be obtained in the school of Christ. Understand that I say nothing in these words to depreciate education, but to warn you that you are in danger of carrying that which is lawful to unlawful extremes. You are altogether too much of human education. Rather you should insist upon the development of precious, Christian experience, for without this the education of the student will be of no avail.
If you see that students are in danger of becoming engrossed in their studies to such an extent as to neglect the study of that Book which gives them information as to how to secure the future welfare of their souls, then do not present the temptation of going deeper, of protracting the time for educational discipline. In this way all that will make the student’s education of value to the world will be sunk out of sight. Christ Jesus is to be loved more and more; but <some> have gone to Battle Creek in the pursuit of education, when, had they remained away, they would have been far better prepared for the work of God. They would have carried it forward with simplicity, in the manner in which Christ labored. They would have depended more upon God and upon the power of the Holy Spirit, and far less upon their education. Long periods of continual study are injurious to physical, mental, and moral well-being.
Read the Old and New Testaments with a contrite heart. Read them prayerfully and faithfully, pleading that the Holy Spirit may give you understanding. Daniel searched the portion of the Old Testament which he had at his command, and made the word of God his highest instructor. At the same time he improved the opportunities that were given him to become intelligent in all lines of learning. His companions did the same, and we read that “in all matters of wisdom and understanding the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm … as for these four children, (for they were mere youths) God gave them knowledge and kill in all learning and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Daniel 1:20, 17.]
Students that exalt the sciences above the God of science will be ignorant when they think themselves very wise. If you cannot afford time to pray, cannot give time for communion with God, for self-examination, and do not appreciate that wisdom that comes alone from God, all your learning will be deficient, and your schools and colleges will be found wanting. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Proverbs 9:10.] What faith are we cherishing? Have we a faith that works by love and purifies the soul? Have we faith according to the light we have received? Satan would be exultant if he could work himself in at Battle Creek to deter the work of God by pressing in human inventions in advice and counsel. He would be delighted to have the workers absorbed in years of preparation, so that education would become a hindrance instead of an advancement.
The Holy Spirit of God has been striving with many youth, and has been urging them to give themselves to the cause and work of God. When they offer themselves to the conferences, they are advised to take a course of study at Battle Creek before they shall enter the work. This is all very well if the student is evenly balanced with principle; but it is not consistent that the worker should be long delayed in preparation. Most earnest work should be given to advance those who are to be missionaries. Every effort should tell to their advantage, so that they shall be sent forth as speedily as possible. They cannot afford to wait unto their education is considered complete. This can never be attained, for there will be a constant course of education carried on throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity.
There is a large work to be done, and the vineyard of the Lord needs laborers. Missionaries should enter the field before they shall be compelled to cease labor. There are now open doors on every side, and they cannot afford to wait to complete years of training, for the years before us are not many, and we need to work while the day lasts. It is not best to advise men and women to take a course of study at Ann Arbor. Many who have been there have not been benefited in the past, and will not be in the future.
Mark the features of Christ’s work. He moved in the greatest simplicity. Although His followers were fishermen, He did not advise them to first go into the school of the rabbis before entering upon the work. He called His disciples from their fishers’ nets, and said, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” [Matthew 4:19.] He called Matthew from the receipt of custom, and said, “Follow me.” [Matthew 9:9.] All that they were required to do was to follow Jesus, to do as He commanded them, and thus enter into His school where God could be their teacher. As long as time shall last we shall have need of schools. There will always be need for education, but we must be careful lest education shall absorb every spiritual interest.
There is positive peril in advising students to pursue one line of education after another, and to leave them to think that by so doing they shall attain perfection. The education that will be obtained will only be deficient in every way. The Lord says, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” [1 Corinthians 1:19-21.] This is God’s devised plan, and through successive generations, through centuries of heathenism, this plan was carried forward, not as an experiment, but as an approved way for the spreading of the gospel. Through this method from the beginning, conviction came upon man, and the world was enlightened concerning the gospel of God.
The highest grade of schooling that any human being can attain is the schooling given by the divine Teacher. This is the knowledge that in a special sense we shall greatly need as we draw near the close of this earth’s history, and everyone will do well to obtain this kind of education. The Lord requires that men shall be under His training. There is a great work to be done in bringing human minds out of darkness into the marvelous light of God. As His human instrumentalities, we are by living faith, to carry out his plans. Are we in a condition in which our faith will not work to the glory of God, or are we vessels meet for the Master’s use, prepared for every good work?
Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. He received his education in the providence of God, but a large part of that education had to be unlearned and accounted as foolishness. Its impression had to be blotted out by forty years of experience in caring for the sheep and the tender lambs. If many who are connected with the work of the Lord could be isolated as was Moses, and could be compelled by circumstances to follow some humble vocation until their hearts became tender, they would make much more faithful shepherds than they now, do in dealing with God’s heritage. They would not be so prone to magnify their own abilities, or seek to demonstrate that the wisdom of an advanced education could take the place of a sound knowledge of God. When Christ came to the world, the testimony was that “the world knew not God,” yet that “it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” [Verse 21.]
The experiment of the world’s wisdom had been fully tested at the advent of Christ, and the boasted human wisdom had proved wanting. Men knew not the true wisdom that comes from the source of all good. The world’s wisdom was weighed in the balances and found wanting. You are giving the students under your guardianship ideas that are not correct. If they had received far less of them, they would have been better fitted for the prosecution of their work. You do not properly consider the instruction and the method of our Lord Jesus Christ, yet He was the only perfect Educator in our world.
“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth but which the Holy Ghost teacheth, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that ye may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” [1 Corinthians 2:12-16.]
You need to be learning in the school of Christ today. The Lord has power to work with His own agents. You are loading down poor finite men with weighty advantages to do a large work, when they will have no opportunity or call to use a large share of the burden of studies that they have undertaken to master. Golden opportunities are passing into eternity, and counsel has been given that should have been withheld; and much more and better work, might have been done, than has been done, if the period spent in Battle Creek by many of the workers had been materially shortened. They should have been set at work communicating the light and knowledge they have received to those who are in darkness. The God of all grace will give grace for grace. Those who go to work in the Lord’s vineyard will learn how to work, and will call to remembrance the instruction which they have received during their student life.
The Lord is not pleased with encouraging these workers to spend years in accumulating knowledge which they will have no opportunity to impart. Precious youth, who ought to have been laboring for God, have come to Battle Creek to receive an education, and to gain a better knowledge as to how to work. They ought to have been taught that which is essential in a very short period. They ought not to require years for their education before they can respond to the call, “Go work today in my vineyard.” [Matthew 21:28.] Instead of sending them forth as laborers after they have put in months and years at the college they are advised to take other studies, and to make progress along additional lines. They are counselled to spend months and years in institutions where the truth is denied and controverted, and where error is insidiously introduced, of a most specious, unscriptural character. These doctrines become mingled with their studies.
They become engrossed in advancing in educational lines, and they lose their love for Jesus; and before they know what is the matter with them, they are far from God, and are all unprepared to respond to the command, “Go work today in my vineyard.” [Verse 28.] The desire for missionary effort is gone. They pursue their studies with an infatuation that closes the door to the entrance of Christ. When they graduate, and have full commission to go out as properly educated students, some have lost all burden for the work, and are far less prepared to engage in the service of God than when they became to Battle Creek at first.
The messenger turned to the congregation, and said, “Do you believe the prophecies? Do you who know the truth, understand that the last message of warning is now being given to the world—the last call of mercy is now being heard? Do you believe that Satan has come down with great power, working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in every place? Do you believe that great Babylon has come upon into remembrance before God, and that soon she will receive from God’s hand double for all her sins and iniquities? Satan is pleased to have you hold men and women in Battle Creek who should be laborers together with God in His great moral vineyard.
If the enemy can keep workers out of the field on any pretext, if he can so arrange matters as to absorb time, talent, and means, he will do so. This advanced preparation which keeps talent out of the field, gives no chance for the Lord to work with his workers. Many are led to selfishly occupy time, talent, and means, in obtaining an advanced education, and at the same time the world is perishing for the knowledge which they could impart. Christ called the unlearned fishermen and gave these men knowledge and wisdom to such a degree that their adversaries could not gainsay or resist their words. Their testimony has gone to the uttermost parts of the world.
The disciples of Christ are not called upon to magnify men, but to magnify God, the source of all wisdom. Let educators give the Holy Spirit room to do its work upon human hearts. The great Teacher is represented in our midst by His Holy Spirit. However you may study, however you may reach higher and still higher, although you occupy every moment of your probationary time in the pursuit of knowledge, yet you will not become complete. When time is over, you would have to ask yourself the question, “What good have I done to those who are in midnight darkness? To whom have I communicated the knowledge of God, or even the knowledge of those things for which I have spent so much time and money?”
It will soon be said in heaven, “It is done.” “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” [Revelation 16:17; 22:11, 12.] When this fiat is spoken, every case will have been decided. Far better would it be for workers to take smaller work, and to go about it slowly and humbly, wearing the yoke of Christ, and bearing his burdens, than to devote years in preparation for a large work, and then fail to bring sons and daughters to God, fail to have any trophies to lay at the feet of Jesus. Men and women are hovering altogether too long in Battle Creek. God calls them, but they do not hear his voice. Fields are neglected, and that means that minds are unenlightened. Corrupt seed is being rapidly sown in the hearts of our youth, and great practical truths must be brought in contact with the children and youth, for truth is powerful.
Christian teachers are called to work for the Lord. The leaven of truth must be introduced before it can work transformation of character. It would be far better for our youth to be less accomplished in branches of study than to be lacking in humility and meekness, and to be devoid of a contrite heart. The work of some of our educators has been to unfit students to be laborers together with God. You should study to become acquainted with the manner in which Jesus worked and preached. He has self-denying and self-sacrificing. He did not shun toil; He suffered reproach, scorn, insult, mockery, and abuse; but are our students being educated in such a way as will prepare them to walk in His footsteps? God is not in your procrastination.
Your temptation to follow on year upon year in lines of study is taking hold of minds, and they are gradually losing the spirit with which the Lord inspired them to go to work in his vineyard. Why cannot responsible men discern what will be the sure result of thus detaining their students, and of teaching them to put off the work of the Lord? Time is passing into eternity, and yet those who were sent to Battle Creek to be fitted up to labor in the vineyard of the Lord are not encouraged to do what they could do to advance the cause of God.
Many privileges are supplied to those who already know the truth, and yet are not practicing the truth. Money and strength that should be expended in the highways and hedges of the world, is expended upon those who do not improve the light that they already have by communicating that light to those who are in darkness. When Philip received the light, he went and called Nathanael; but many youth who might do a special work for the Master will not make a move until they have had multiplied opportunities.
Ministers of Jesus Christ should apportion some part of God’s vineyard to men who are standing idle in the market place. If they blunder, then correct their mistakes, and set them at work again. Many more have been hindered from going forth into the work, than have been encouraged to trade upon their talents, and yet it is by using their ability that they learn how to employ their talents. Many have entered Battle Creek to obtain an education who could have been better instructed in their own country. Time has been lost, money has been needlessly expended, a work has been left undone, and souls have been lost, because of the miscalculation of those who thought they were serving God. The Lord lives, and His Holy Spirit presides everywhere.
The impression must not prevail that Battle Creek is the Jerusalem of the world, and that all must go up there to worship. Those who desire to learn, and who make every possible effort to acquire knowledge, walking conscientiously in the light of the truth, need not journey to Battle Creek. God is our teacher, and those who would improve their talents where they are will be blessed by teachers who are sent of God to instruct them, who have been preparing to do a work for the Master. To spend more time, to expend more money, is to do worse than to lose it, for those who seek to obtain an education at the expense of practical godliness are on the losing side. That which they acquire in educational lines during the time when they should have entered upon the work is mere waste and loss.
The heavenly intelligences are waiting for human agents with whom they can cooperate as missionaries in the dark parts of the earth. God is waiting for men to engage in home missionary work in our large cities, and men and women are retained in Battle Creek when they should be distributed in the cities and towns along the highways and hedges. They should be calling and bidding men to come to the marriage supper, “for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.] There will be missionaries who will do good work in the Master’s vineyard who do not go to Battle Creek.
Those who go to Battle Creek meet with temptations that they did not suppose could exist in that place. They meet with discouragements which they need not have had, and they are not helped in their religious experience by going to that place. They lose much time because they know not what they are to do, and no one is prepared to tell them. They lose much time in following occupations that have no bearing upon the work for which they desire to fit themselves. The common and the sacred work are co-mingled, and stand on a level. But this is not a wise policy. God looks on, and does not approve. Many things might have been done that would have had lasting influence had they worked moderately and in humility in the place where they were.
Time is passing; souls are deciding either for evil or good, and the warfare is constantly increasing. How many who know the truth for this time are working in harmony with its principles? It is true that something is being done, but more, far more, should have been done. The work is accumulating, and the time for doing the work is diminishing. It is now time for all to be burning and shining lights, and yet many are failing to keep their lamps supplied with the oil of grace, and trimmed and burning so that light may gleam out today.
Too many are counting on a long stretch of a tomorrow; but this is a mistake. Let everyone be educated in such a way as to show the importance of the special work for today. Let everyone work for God, and work for souls; let each one show wisdom and never be found in idleness, waiting for someone to come around and set him to work. That “someone” who could set you to work is overcrowded with responsibilities, and time is lost in waiting for his directions.
God will give you wisdom in reforming at once, for the call is still made, “Son, go work today in my vineyard.” [Matthew 21:28.] Some may still be undecided, yet the call is heard, “Go work today in my vineyard.” “Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” [Hebrews 4:7.] The Lord prefaces the requirement by the use of the word, “son.” How tender, how compassionate, yet withal, how urgent! His invitation to work in His vineyard is also a command. “What? know ye not that your bodies are the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have in God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]
Lt 51a, 1895
Lindsay, Harmon
Tasmania
May 1, 1895
Dear Brother Harmon Lindsay:
I hoped I should never be compelled to write you a testimony of reproof. For years your case has been presented before me on different occasions. I have been shown that since you were converted, you have been in continual peril. You run well, apparently, for a time, but when your course is questioned or your path crossed, your course of action reveals that the wrong traits of your character have not been brought wholly under the influence of the Spirit of God. When speaking to others, I have been given a message for you, but was not constrained by the Spirit of God to say, Harmon Lindsay, you are the man. I have never ceased to pity you and to feel deep sorrow of heart on your account, but at no time have I felt in full unity of spirit with you.
Since the meeting at Minneapolis, you have followed in the tread of the scribes and Pharisees. Never will you have greater evidence of the working of the Holy Spirit than you had at that meeting. Again and again the Spirit of the Lord came into the meeting with convincing power, notwithstanding the unbelief manifested by some present, but you were deceived and prejudiced and manifested the spirit of those who refused to acknowledge Christ. You have followed in their tread and have refused to acknowledge the mistakes and errors in resisting the message the Lord in mercy sent you. Afterwards, at the conference meetings held in Battle Creek, though evidence after evidence was given you, you refused to accept the message sent you by God. You would not humble your pride and repent; your wrong attitude remained unchanged.
At times you have been deeply impressed by the deep moving of the Spirit of God, and you were almost ready to fall on the Rock and be broken, but you strengthened yourself to resist. With others you walked in the same path as did the rebellious Jews; the same spirit that inspired you, and the results have been similar. You need a teachable spirit. You will never find rest until you yield up your set, stubborn will, and cease to resist the pleadings of the Spirit of God.
You have strong natural passions, which need to be chastened and controlled. Although a man in years, you are not a man in self-control, but have the unreasonable prejudices and stubborn disposition of an uncontrollable child. When once your position is taken, you will uphold it at any cost. Knowing your disposition and temperament, knowing that when you start upon a wrong track, any efforts made to change your course only render you more persistent, I have made no special effort for you, fearing that your resistance would carry you fully over to Satan’s side, placing you altogether under the black banner of unbelief.
You have rejected the message the Lord has sent you, not because it was an error, but because you set your feet in the path of unbelief followed by the men of Nazareth. Christ “came to Nazareth where He had been brought up, and as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto Him the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor, He hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And He closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, and sat down.
“And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on Him. And He began to say to them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare Him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son? And He said unto them, Ye will surely say unto Me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself; whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in this country. And He said, Verily, I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country.
“But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land. But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet, and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian. And they all in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, and rose up, and thrust Him out of the city, and led Him unto the brow of the hill, whereon their city was built, that they might cast Him down headlong. But He passing through the midst of them, went His way.” [Luke 4:16-30.]
With many others you have been smitten with blindness. The infatuation of the ruler of the powers of darkness has been upon you. But it is no light matter for you to close your eyes that [you] will not see and your ears that [you] will not hear, and to darken your understanding that you will not be convinced of the manifestations of the Spirit of God. It is a dangerous thing to call the work of the Spirit of God the work of Satan.
Christ has given His own life for you that He might place immortal life within your reach. As the Divine Counselor looked upon you, I heard Him say, “O, who hath bewitched you that ye should not obey the truth?” [Galatians 3:1.] You had a book which you had been studying. The heavenly messenger took this book from you, and placed the Bible in your hand, saying, “The Word of God, which will judge you in the last day, is alone able to make you wise unto salvation. The Bible alone can be a safe counselor and guide for you. It will convince you of the ample provision made for all who will come to Jesus.”
Christ calls upon all who claim to be sons and daughters of God to consider His words in the supplication to the Father just before His betrayal and death: “And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom He hath sent.” [John 17:3.] These words open before us a field of study which we have strangely neglected.
Through their lack of interest in the Word of God, men and women absent themselves from the school of Christ, choosing to serve themselves; as a sure result they remain in the darkness of error, fighting against error, fighting against God, and closing their eyes to the truth. Shall we in these last days place ourselves in the ranks of those who deplore the absence of God’s Spirit, and yet who do not seek God that they may find it? At times some are convicted and aroused, but they serve God with a divided heart, and soon fall back into error, serving the world under the pretext of serving God. God recognizes all such, not as His servants, but as servants of sin.
My brother, the rebuke of God is upon you, for you have discarded the truth. Light has come to you again and again since the Minneapolis meeting, but in rejecting the message God has sent, you have rejected Him. Infidelity is taking your soul captive because you are not yoked up with Christ. You have thought that you were increased in wisdom, but shame and confusion of face will be the portion of all who are not sanctified through the truth. While covering yourself with infidel ideas and theories, you cannot wear the garment of Christ’s righteousness, and without this garment you cannot enter into the marriage supper of the Lamb. God has given you great light, and you will be held accountable for all the privileges you have had to become acquainted with God and His truth.
We are not doing our duty unless we are laborers together with God, working out our own salvation with fear and trembling. As servants of Jesus Christ, we are to place ourselves in the channel of light, doing all that we do to the glory of God. But you have not walked in the light as it has come to you. You have not opened the door of your heart to the knock of Christ. Instead of this you have opened your heart to the agencies which have no connection with God. God calls upon you to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. This is the principle that must guide all who would be among the redeemed in the kingdom of God.
I have been shown that you are in peril. The love of the world has been admitted to your heart, from which the love of the truth has been expelled. You have not been serving the Lord and Master with your whole heart and soul; another leader than Jesus Christ has received your service. Professedly, you have been walking in harmony with your brethren, and they have placed upon you responsibilities which they never should have given you. You have accepted these responsibilities, knowing that if your brethren knew the true inwardness of your thought and practice, they would not have done as they did. There is need for us all to heed the injunction, “Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] So far as activity is concerned, you are clear, but all your works will not bear the test of God’s Word.
You have not cherished the love of the truth in your heart, though you maintain in some respects the form of godliness. You have sought to manage things according to Harmon Lindsay’s will and way, but all this outward work is vain unless God works within. The position you have accepted demands consecrated ability and a pure, sanctified heart. But I have heard you give wrong counsel in regard to the disposition of means given by those who have been moved by the Holy Spirit to sell what they have and help God’s work.
Since the Minneapolis meeting your influence and that of Brother A. R. Henry have been like a malarious atmosphere upon the hearts of God’s people. You have not sought to establish them in the truth, but rather to weaken their faith. You have been as salt which has lost its savor. Though still trusted by your brethren, you are an unfaithful steward. The seed Satan has put into your mind you have sown in the minds and hearts of others. Can you gather up these seeds of unbelief? Never. They will spring up and yield a harvest you will not care to garner.
In the day when every man is rewarded according to his works, God will look at the hearts which have been deceived by your doubts, and will say, “An enemy hath done this.” [Matthew 13:28.] Your heart is not in the truth because the truth is not in your heart.
But while mercy still lingers, go to God for repentance. Seek Him night and day, never relaxing your efforts. You are working out your own destiny, but you must work in opposite directions to that in which you have been working, if you are [to be] saved. Repent and be converted. Do all that you can to counteract the effects of your past work.
God has given you moral powers and religious susceptibilities, but you have not sought to co-operate with Him. To make a propitiation for your sins, and to reconcile you to Himself, He has given the life of His only begotten Son. He has manifested the light, the truth, the way to you, but you have resisted the Spirit of God, and have chosen to walk in the light made by the sparks of your own kindling. The words spoken by Christ to Nicodemus apply to you: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [John 3:3.]
God has given you the privilege of receiving Him, the Light of the world; but for years you have resisted the Holy Spirit of God, and the truth leaked out of your heart as water out of a leaky vessel. You have turned your back upon Jesus, saying, not only in your thoughts, but in your words and works, “My Lord delayeth His coming.” [Matthew 24:48.] Yes, your seeds of unbelief have been dropping here and there, and sad is the thought, you cannot gather them up again; you cannot counteract your influence.
You have so long loved the world and the things of the world that everything else has been made secondary. The influence that your family has had over you has been wrong, and you have had a wrong influence over them. Your faith has been indistinct, and you have refused the help God has sent you, with which you could, if you chose, subdue your own nature. Co-operating with the help God has given you, and using His help, you could render to Him wholehearted, effectual service. But you have been dealing with strange fire. It is your duty to employ your God-given powers in your Creator’s service, improving every opportunity diligently and conscientiously. God will accept nothing but consecrated service.
Your wife and children have not the love of God abiding in their hearts. Their love of selfish indulgence is so strong that they are stumbling blocks in the way of others. Those with whom they associate are not made better, but worse, by the association. Are you, as a family, living epistles of God, known and read of all men? The spiritual life of the soul is quenched by the love of things of the world. Practical truth is not desired by you, Brother Lindsay, or by your family; therefore God cannot preside in your hearts. As human agents, we are probationers, fitting for eternity. In giving you Jesus, God has given you all heaven. If you receive Him, you will have moral power to overcome all evil, and you will be a partaker of the divine nature. God calls upon you to eat of the Bread of life, and drink of the water of life, by which He designs that you shall receive strength to be co-workers with God.
God holds you and your wife accountable for neglecting to properly train and educate your children, in order that their lives shall not be superficial and without the solid acquirements that will make them what God intends they should be. Sister Lindsay will have a fearfully solemn account to render to God for her neglect to live a Christian life. Has she taught her children to deny self, and has she practiced self-denial? You will not long stand where you are. The message of God to you as a family is a decisive one. “Today, if ye will hear my voice, harden not your hearts.” [Hebrews 4:7.] Sister Lindsay needs to study the instruction given in the Word of God, “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, and of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, and that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” [1 Peter 3:3, 4.]
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost, which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] “For we are laborers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
“Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire, and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss; but he himself shall be saved, yet so as by fire. Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” [1 Corinthians 3:9-16.]
As a family, what have you done for the Master? What are you putting into your character-building? In that day when all that is worthless shall be burnt up, will it be found that you have brought to your foundation “wood, hay, stubble”? [Verse 12.] Brother Lindsay, your record is far worse in the sight of God than that of your family, for talents of a high order have been committed to you. Had you improved your talents and walked in the counsel of God, you would have exerted an influence which would have led your wife and children in the right way. What will you answer to God in that day when the case of every one is revealed just as it is?
My brother, I appeal to you as one who loves your soul. While mercy still lingers, fall on the Rock and be broken, that Jesus Christ may build you up into His own likeness. Please read and study carefully the second chapter of first Corinthians, and if your discernment is not wholly perverted, you will obtain a glimpse of your present condition. You will cease to lead other souls in false paths.
My brother, why do you cherish such bitterness against Elder A. T. Jones and Elder Waggoner? It is for the same reason Cain hated Abel. Cain refused to heed the instruction of God, and because Abel sought God and followed His will, Cain killed him. God has given Brother Jones and Brother Waggoner a message for the people. You do not believe that God has upheld them, but He has given them precious light, and their message has fed the people of God. When you reject the message borne by these men, you reject Christ, the Giver of the message. Why will you encourage the attributes of Satan? Why will you and Brother Henry despise God’s delegated ministers, and seek to justify yourselves? Your work stands revealed in the sight of God. “Turn ye, turn ye, for why will ye die?” [Ezekiel 33:11.]
The Lord has appealed to you again and again, rebuking your stubborn, unbelieving spirit, but rather than fall on the Rock and be broken, you become the graft of a strange vine, which in the end will be gathered up and burned. It is difficult for you to throw off the religious faith you have so long professed, but you are not a Christian at heart, for you do not bear the fruits of the Spirit of Christ. A power is working in you, seeking to extinguish the bright beams of Christ’s righteousness, which for so many years you have refused to receive. Judas might have been disciplined by the lessons of Christ, as were the other disciples, but he refused to receive and to practice the words of Christ. Though he was thought by the other disciples to be a faithful follower of Christ, he was not transformed in character. He had a formal connection with the little church of disciples, but he had not heart-connection with Christ.
God is long-suffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but the day of His judgment will come at last. “Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when He cometh shall find watching.” [See Matthew 24:46.] O that you may awake before it shall be everlastingly too late, and prepare to meet your God. Often the Spirit of God has taken of the things of God, and shown them to you, but you have refused to accept them, and by your refusal you have despised the truth, and have placed yourself in the path of the unrepentant Jews. Have you forgotten that God who is strong to save is also strong to smite the rejecters of His law? This may be the last appeal the Lord will make to you, for there is a line beyond which the forbearance of God does not pass.
By continual resistance the sinner places himself where he knows nothing but resistance. When he disregards the calls of God’s mercy, and continues to sow the seeds of unbelief, the dread mark is placed over his doorway, “Ephraim is joined to his idols; let him alone.” [Hosea 4:17.] Jesus grieves over you, saying, “How often would I have gathered you as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wing; but ye would not.” [See Matthew 23:37.] No longer grieve the Saviour by your resistance. “Knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.” [Romans 13:11, 12.]
Lt 53, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Norfolk Villa, Granville, Australia
September 10, 1895
Dear Brother:
For years I have carried a consuming burden for the cause of God in Battle Creek. I am now deeply troubled over the shape which matters are taking there, and the influence which is being exerted on the work everywhere. I ask you, my brother, how can you entrust A. R. Henry and Harmon Lindsay with so much responsibility in the work, and send them hither and thither to all parts of the field? They are not by precept and example giving the third angel’s message. The atmosphere which surrounds their souls, and which is revealed in spirit and influence, shows that they have lost the Spirit of God out of their hearts and their experience. They are made responsible for many, many things, while they do not feel their accountability to God.
Brother [J. N.] Nelson who is in the office cannot be regarded as in exactly the same position as these men, but he needs a different mold of character. He has not that kind, Christian courtesy that will have a saving, fragrant influence upon the minds of those who associate with him or do business with him. Though he may hold to right principles, his manner of representing these principles is such as to make a disagreeable impression upon the minds of those associated with him. His words [and] his manner of expression create thoughts and feelings that are very objectionable.
A good man is to manifest his principles, but he can do this in a way that will not make such a disagreeable impression upon those with whom he does business. God requires Brother Nelson to learn his lessons more perfectly in the school of Christ. His principles should be kept more vividly before his own mind, that they may bring forth in him the peaceable fruits of righteousness. His unfortunate manner of expression, and his spirit of criticism destroy his influence that, if sanctified, might be of real value.
The Lord wants Brother Nelson to clothe himself with the garments of righteousness, and to bring into his practical life the sweetness and fragrance of the character of Christ. This brother possesses qualifications of mind and character that if sanctified daily for the Master’s use would enable him to become a vessel unto honor. But he needs the molding and fashioning of Jesus. “The love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But then, O man of God, flee these things: and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” [1 Timothy 6:10-12.]
I would say to Brother Nelson, Let your heart be joined to the heart of infinite love. Let your life be knit by hidden links to the life of Jesus. Let your life be hid with Christ in God; then because Christ liveth, you will live also. God wants you to let Him manage you, that you may be a lovable Christian. The Lord would have the natural and hereditary traits of character come under the pruning knife. Look steadfastly unto Jesus, that you may catch His spirit and cherish the qualities of Christlike character. Then it will be recognized by all who have any connection with you that you have learned of Christ His meekness, His affection, His tenderness, His sympathy.
Never rest satisfied until you possess a loving and lovable spirit. Your words may come from the good treasure of the heart to strengthen, help, bless, and win all around you. True conscientiousness will make the religious life attractive. But your religion has altogether too much acidity to be palatable. You sour your influence by a stubborn, set determination; your critical censoriousness sets the teeth on edge. God help you, my brother, for you need melting.
Others catch your spirit. The seeds we sow will bear harvest in goodness, patience, kindness, and love, or exactly the opposite. It is not your purpose to do wrong acts, but you do not see the necessity of doing pleasant acts, so that from you men receive a better impression of the Christian character. More of the spirit of the beloved disciple John would make you more fragrant and lovable, and a far better example of what constitutes a true Christian life.
Many, many, need melting over. Be sound in principle, true to God, but do not manifest one stern, ungenial phase of character. God does not want you to incur contempt by manifesting a disposition like a ball of putty, but He does want you to be in principle as sound as a rock, yet with a healthful mellowness. Like the Master, be full of grace and truth. Jesus was incorruptible, undefiled, yet in His life were mingled gentleness, meekness, benignity, sympathy, and love. The poorest were not afraid to approach Him; they did not fear a rebuff. What Christ was, every Christian should strive to be. In holiness and winsomeness of character He is our model.
“Learn of me,” says Jesus, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] We should all learn of Christ what it means to be a Christian. Let us learn of Him how to combine firmness, justice, purity, and integrity with unselfish courtesy and kindly sympathy. Thus the character becomes lovable and attractive. The beauty of holiness will disarm scoffers.
The workers at the Review and Herald office will not enter into the kingdom of heaven, unless their characters reflect the character of Christ. The heart must receive the divine current, and let it flow out in rich streams of mercy and grace to other hearts. All who would win souls to Christ must be winsome. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Lt 54, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, Australia
September 19, 1895
Elder O. A. Olsen
Battle Creek, Michigan, U. S. A
Dear Brother:
I do not find rest in spirit. Scene after scene is presented in symbols before me, and I find no rest until I begin to write out the matter. I think we will institute at least once each day a season of prayer for the Lord to set things in order at the center of the work. Matters are being shaped so that every other institution is following in the same course. The General Conference is itself becoming corrupted with wrong sentiments and principles. In the working up of plans the same principles are manifest that have controlled at Battle Creek for a long time.
Christ said of the Jews, “In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive; for this people’s heart is waxen gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed.” [Matthew 13:14, 15.] Thus it is with some men who are connected with the great and important interests in our institutions.
I have been shown that the Jewish nation were not brought suddenly into their condition of thought and practice. From generation to generation they were working on false theories, carrying out principles that were opposed to the truth, and combining with their religion thoughts and plans that were the product of human minds; human inventions were made supreme.
So it is today. Men connected with the work of God have been dealing unjustly, and it is time to call a halt. The holy principles God has given are represented by the sacred fire; but common fire has been used in place of the sacred. False propositions have been assumed as truth and righteousness, and everything has been managed in such a way as to carry out these propositions, which are a misrepresentation of God’s character. Plans contrary to truth and righteousness have been introduced in a subtle manner, on the plea that this must be done, and that must be done, because it is for the advancement of the cause of God. Men have taken advantage of those whom they supposed to be under their jurisdiction. They were determined to bring the individuals to their terms; they would rule or ruin. This devising leads to oppression, injustice, and wickedness. There will be no material change for the better until a decided movement is made to bring in a different state of things.
The plea some are so ready to urge, “the cause of God,” “working in behalf of the cause of God,” to justify themselves in presenting robbery for burnt offering, is an offense to God. He accepts no such transactions; prosperity will not attend these movements. The Lord of heaven does not accept the strange fire offered to Him. Let men deal with men upon the principles of the ten commandments, bringing these principles into their business transactions, for the great and holy and merciful God will never be in league with dishonest practices; not a single touch of injustice will He vindicate. The cause of God is free from every taint of injustice. It can gain no advantage by robbing the members of the family of God of their individuality or of their rights. All such practices are abhorrent to God.
Let all bear in mind that the Lord’s eye is upon all their works, and that He expects fidelity from His servants. When the four Hebrew youth were receiving an education for the court of the Babylonish king, they did not feel that the blessing of the Lord was a substitute for the taxing effort required of them. They were diligent in study, for they discerned that through the grace of God, their destiny depended on their own will and action. They knew that they were to bring all their ability to their work, and by close, severe taxation of their powers, make the most of their opportunities for study and labor.
He who has created men, and has given them talent and intellect, seeks to bring their minds into association with the divine. When this is done, goodness, love for their fellow men, will be their natural instinct. He would have men love God supremely, and their fellow men impartially. It is His purpose that we should be closely attached to God and tenderly attached to one another.
Such was the condition that existed in heaven before the disaffection of Satan. The heavenly current flowed through the universe of God without one cloud of evil to cast a shadow upon its bright waters. Everywhere spotless purity was reflected as in a mirror. And God was over all. But Satan fell. The human race [was] created. Adam and Eve fell.
And cannot men who have the history of the fall, the workings of the wily foe since Adam’s day, see how the same principles are still at work, and what will be the end thereof? We are all on trial during probationary time. Satan is playing the game of life for every soul; Christ is at work for every soul. Those who consent to receive the moral image of God become like Him in character. But if they refuse the character of Christ, heaven is lost to them. When we have so gracious an opportunity of working out our own salvation through our choice of the character we form, why will we not lay hold of the Saviour, and by faith receive His merits, and perfect a character like His?
The Lord Jesus Himself has bridged the gulf that sin has made, and the whole scheme of redemption has been put in operation to restore the moral image of God in man. “The word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:14.] Infinite wisdom is revealed in Christ. He suffered in our stead, that men should have another test and trial to prove whether they would be safe subjects for His kingdom. His blood was our ransom; His death brings life and immortality within our reach. He has risen from the dead, and has ascended on high to intercede for the fallen race. He is now at the right hand of the throne of God—our representative before the Father.
Whatever was given to Christ—the “all things” to supply every need of fallen man—was given to Him as the Head and representative of humanity. In and through Him we are complete in every grace. We share His throne. “To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them which believe on his name, which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of flesh, but of God.” [Verses 12, 13.]
There is a heaven of bliss, free from all dissension, free from all selfishness, free from poverty, sickness, and oppression, for those that overcome. Then I entreat you who have a heaven to gain and a hell to shun, Do not be presumptuous. Link up in the closest relationship with Christ, and depart from every species of iniquity.
All who before the universe of heaven are adjudged to have in Christ endured the penalty of the law, and in Him fulfilled its righteousness, will have eternal life. They will be one in character with Christ. His prayer for His followers will be fulfilled: “The glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Shall we not strive to form characters after the divine similitude? Shall we not here be conformed to the image of Christ? O that God would give us divine perception to comprehend the breadth and length, the depth and height, and to know the love of Christ that passeth knowledge, that we might be filled with all the fullness of God! Then would man look upon his fellow men as God’s own purchased possession. He would keep his own soul in the love of God, and would not undertake to lord it over God’s heritage.
It was a wonderful thing for God to create man, to make mind. He created him that every faculty might be the faculty of the divine mind. The glory of God is to be revealed in the creation of man in God’s image, and in his redemption. One soul is of more value than a world. The Lord Jesus is the Author of our being, and He is also the Author of our redemption, and every one who will enter into the kingdom of God will develop a character that is the counterpart of the character of God. None can dwell with God in the holy heaven but those who bear His likeness. Those who are redeemed will be overcomers; they will be elevated, pure, one with Christ.
The divine decrees are to be vindicated; it will be demonstrated that they are not accessory to sin. There was no withdrawal of divine influence from Lucifer. Not in the slightest particular was there a deficiency in God’s government that would afford a cause for disaffection in heaven. So in the administration of affairs in connection with God’s work on earth, He requires that those who bear the responsibility of the work are to give no cause for disaffection. The principles that are according to heaven’s order must be maintained.
Everything in our world is in agitation. Coming events cast their shadows before. The signs of the times are ominous indeed. There is assurance in nothing human or earthly. There are but two parties in this world. Satan works with his crooked, deceiving power, and through strong delusion he catches all who do not abide in the truth, who have turned their ears away from the truth, and have turned unto fables. Satan himself abode not in the truth, and he is the mystery of iniquity. Through his subtlety he gives to his soul-destroying errors the appearance of truth. Herein is their power to deceive. It is because they are a counterfeit of the truth that spiritualism, theosophy, and the like deceptions gain such power over the minds of men. Herein is the masterly working of Satan. He pretends to be the Saviour of man, the benefactor of the human race, and thus he more readily lures his victims to destruction.
Rapidly men are ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen, restlessly waiting and watching the movements of their leaders. Some are watching and waiting and working for our Lord’s appearing, but the greater part of the world are rapidly falling into line under the generalship of the first great apostate. They look for a god in humanity, and Satan personifies the one they seek. Multitudes will be so deluded through their rejection of truth that they will accept the counterfeit, and humanity will be hailed as God.
Satan’s skill is exercised in devising plans and methods without number to accomplish his purpose. Dissimulation has become a fine art with him, and he works in the guise of an angel of light. God’s eye alone discerns his schemes to contaminate the world with false and ruinous principles, bearing on their race the appearance of genuine goodness. He works to restrict religious liberty, and to bring into the religious world a species of slavery. Organizations, institutions, unless kept by the power of God, will work under Satan’s dictation to bring men under the control of men; and fraud and guile will bear the semblance of zeal for truth, and for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Whatever in our practice is not as open as the day belongs to the methods of the prince of evil.
We are warned in the Word of God that sleepless vigilance is the price of safety. Only in the straight path of truth and righteousness can we escape the tempter’s power. The winds are held by the four angels; a moment of respite has been graciously given us of God. Every power lent us of God, whether physical, mental, or moral, is to be sacredly cherished to do the work assigned us for our fellow men who are perishing in their ignorance. The warning is to go forth to all parts of the world. There must be no delay.
If men resist the warnings the Lord sends them, they become even leaders in evil practices; such men assume to exercise the prerogatives of God—they presume to do that which God Himself will not do in seeking to control the minds of men. They introduce their own methods and plans, and through their misconceptions of God, they weaken the faith of others in the truth, and bring in false principles that will work like leaven to taint and corrupt our institutions and churches. Anything that lowers man’s conception of righteousness and equity and impartial judgment, any device or precept that brings God’s human agents under the control of human minds, impairs their faith in God; it separates the soul from God, for it leads away from the path of strict integrity and righteousness.
God will not vindicate any device whereby man shall in the slightest degree rule or oppress his fellow man. The only hope for fallen man is to look to Jesus, and receive him as the only Saviour. As soon as man begins to make an iron rule for other men, as soon as he begins to harness up and drive men according to his own mind, he dishonors God, and imperils his own soul and the souls of his brethren.
God expects His workers to be tender-hearted. How merciful are the ways of God. See Deuteronomy 10:17-20; 2 Chronicles 20:5-7, 9; 1 Peter 1:17. But the rules God has given have been disregarded, and strange fire has been offered before the Lord. The spirit of domination is extending to the presidents of our conferences. But if a man is sanguine of his own powers, and seeks to exercise dominion over his brethren, feeling that he is invested with authority to make his will the ruling power, the best and only safe course is to remove him, lest great harm be done, and he lose his own soul, and imperil the souls of others. “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] Those in authority should manifest the spirit of Christ. They should deal as He would deal with every case that requires attention. They should go weighted with the Holy Spirit.
A man’s position does not make him one jot or tittle greater in the sight of God: it is character alone that God values. The high-handed power that has been developed, as though position made men gods, makes me afraid, and ought to cause fear. It is a curse wherever and by whomsoever exercised. This lording it over God’s heritage will create such a disgust of man’s jurisdiction that a state of insubordination will result. The people are learning that men in high positions of authority cannot be trusted to mold and fashion other men’s minds and characters. The result will be a loss of confidence even in the management of faithful men. But the Lord will raise up laborers who realize their own nothingness apart from Him.
Let men be connected with God’s work who will represent His character. They may have much to learn in regard to business management, but if they pray to God as did Daniel, if with true contrition of mind, they seek that wisdom which comes from above, the Lord will give them an understanding heart. Read carefully and prayerfully the third chapter of James, especially verses 13-16. The whole chapter is an eye-opener, if men wish to open their eyes.
The goodness, mercy, and love of God was proclaimed by Christ to Moses. This was God’s character. When men who profess to serve God, ignore His parental character, and depart from honor and righteousness in dealing with their fellow men, Satan exults, for he has inspired them with his attributes. They are following in the track of Romanism. Those who are enjoined to represent the attributes of the Lord’s character step from the Bible platform, and in their own human judgment devise rules and resolutions to force the will of others. But when men are forced to follow the prescriptions of other men, an order of things is instituted that overrides sympathy and tender compassion, blinding the eyes of men to mercy, justice, and the love of God. Moral influence and personal responsibility are trodden under feet.
The righteousness of Christ by faith has been ignored by some, for it is contrary to their spirit, and their whole life experience. Rule, rule, has been their course of action; and Satan has had an opportunity to represent himself through them. When one who professes to be a representative of Christ engages in sharp dealing, and presses men into hard places, those who are thus oppressed will either break every fetter of restraint, or will be led to regard God as a hard master. They cherish hard feelings against God, and their souls are alienated from Him, just as Satan planned it should be. This hardheartedness on the part of men who claim to believe the truth, Satan charges to the influence of truth itself, and thus men become disgusted, and turn from the truth.
For this reason no man should have a responsible connection with our institutions who thinks it no important matter whether he has a heart of flesh or a heart of steel. Such men may think they are representing the justice of God, but they do not represent His tenderness and the great love wherewith He has loved us. Their human inventions, originating with the specious devices of Satan, appear fair enough to the blinded eyes of men, because they are inherent in their nature. A lie, believed and practiced, becomes truth to them. Thus the purpose of Satan, that men should reach these conclusions through the working of their own inventive minds, is accomplished.
Men fall into error by starting with false premises, and then bringing everything to bear to make the error true. In some cases the first principles have a measure of truth interwoven with the errors, but it does not lead to any just action, and this is why men are misled. In order to reign and become a power, they employ Satan’s methods to justify their own principles. They exalt themselves as men of superior judgment, and profess to stand as representatives of God. These are false gods.
Sinful man can find hope and righteousness only in God; and no human being is righteous any longer than he has faith in God and maintains a vital connection with Him. A flower of the field must have its root in the soil; it must have air, dew, showers, and sunshine. It will flourish only as it receives these advantages, and all are from God. So with men. We receive from God that which ministers to the life of the soul. We are warned not to trust in man nor to make flesh our arm. A curse is pronounced upon all that do this.
“Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. … O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from thee shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living water.” [Jeremiah 17:5-10, 13.]
Let no plans or methods be brought into any of our institutions that will place mind or talent under the control of human judgment, for this is not in God’s order. God has given to men talents of influence which belong to Him alone, and no greater dishonor can be done to God than for one finite agent to purchase from men their God-given talent, or the product of such talent, to be absolutely under his control, even though the benefits of the same be used to the advantage of the cause. In such arrangements, one man’s mind is ruled by another man’s mind, and the human agent is separated from God and exposed to temptations. Satan’s methods tend to one end, to make men the slaves of men. And when this is done, confusion and distrust, jealousies and evil surmisings, are the result. Such a course destroys man’s faith in God, and in the principles which are to control his work, to purge from guilt and from every species of selfishness and hypocrisy.
The Lord of heaven who made our world, and who created man, guards the interests of every soul. To every man He has given his work. We are laborers together with God. There are diversities of gifts, and every man should appreciate the moral and spiritual capital which God has entrusted to him. No one should treat these entrusted talents with indifference. No one is accountable for the talents he has never had; none should complain of the smallness of their gifts. Every one is to trade on that which God has entrusted to him, working where he can, doing the best possible service for the Master. One talent well used, will gain other talents, and these still others. The man with a few pence can serve God faithfully with his pence. If he does this, he is judged as faithful in the sight of God as the one who has improved pounds.
All are to realize their individual responsibility to employ their talents to the glory of God according to their ability. Let no man or council of men assume the responsibility of making as little as possible of these talents, according to their human estimate of God’s entrusted qualifications. No man is to weigh in the balances of human judgment the talents God has given to other men. Let every man appreciate God’s gifts to him, and faithfully trade upon them. No man is to merge his individuality in that of any other man. No man should be urged to make another man his steward. There are diversities of gifts, and a large work to be done in our world in the use of God’s entrusted goods. Let us never forget that we are here to be fashioned by the hand of God, fitted to do the work He has given us to do. That work is our own, the accountability is our own; it cannot be transferred to another. Let not human agents interpose to take another’s work out of the hands of God into their own finite hands.
I have borne abundant testimony, setting forth the fact that the ability to write a book is like every other talent, a gift from God, for which the possessor is accountable to Him. This talent no man can buy or sell without incurring great and dangerous responsibility. Those who labor to bring about changes in the publication of books, to place the books wholly under the control of the publishing houses or the conference, know not what they are talking about. Their eyes are blinded, and they work from a wrong standpoint. Selfishness is a root of bitterness whereby many are defiled.
The efforts that have been made to turn all the profits derived from the talents of writers into the hands of the conference or the publishing house will not prove a success, for the plan is not just and equal. From the light given me by God, the efforts made in this direction by those at the heart of the work are not heaven-inspired. It is a very narrow, conceited arrangement, devised by human minds, and it does not bear the marks of God. Every man’s special work is appointed him of God, and he is individually responsible to God. When men connected with the publishing business make decisions and transact business as they have done and propose to do at Battle Creek, they give evidence that changes should be made as soon as possible, for God is not in any such plan.
Those who write books are not to be left under the control of men who have no experimental knowledge of authorship. These men have a high appreciation of their own ability, but they have shown how little they appreciate the human agent, to whom God has given a certain work to do. They belittle men to whom God has given talents to use to His glory. He never designed that any man should sell his stewardship, as if he was not capable of managing the talents given him. The ideas which prevail that in order to give to the cause of God, a writer must place all the profits of his work, beyond a mere pittance, where other men shall control it for him, or invest as shall suit their ideas, is an error.
Long ago, when such ideas were first advanced, they should have been treated as they deserved. Men took into their own hands responsibilities which they were not capable of treating justly or managing successfully. They have given evidence of this in the past in the fact that they would resort to unfair means in order to wring from men God’s entrusted talents for their own appropriation. But the very persons whom God has entrusted with His goods are held responsible to trade upon them, and thus develop talent.
Every soul who has become the servant of God through the grace of Jesus Christ has his own peculiar sphere of labor. He is not to be bought or sold, but he is to understand that “ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation, received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by him do believe in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory, that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing that ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” [1 Peter 1:18-22.] Who have greater need to be doers of this inspired injunction than have those who are living at the very close of this earth’s history?
It is not our property that is entrusted to us for investment. If it had been, we might claim discretionary power; we might shift the responsibility upon others, and leave our stewardship with others, but this cannot be, because the Lord is testing us individually. If we act wisely in trading upon our Lord’s goods and multiplying the talents given us, we shall invest this gain for the Master, praying for wisdom that we may be divested of all selfishness, and laboring most earnestly to advance the precious truth in our world.
Some men or councils may say, That is just what we wish you to do. The Conference Committee will take your capital, and will appropriate it for this very object. But the Lord has made us individually His stewards. We each hold a solemn responsibility to invest this means ourselves. A portion it is right to place in the treasury to advance the general interests of the work; but the steward of means will not be guiltless before God, unless, so far as he is able to do this, he shall use that means as circumstances shall reveal the necessity. We should be ready to help the suffering, and to set in operation plans to advance the truth in various ways. It is not in the province of the conference or any other organization to relieve us of this stewardship. If you lack wisdom, go to God; ask him for yourself, and then work with an eye single to His glory.
By exercising your judgment, by giving where you see there is need in any line of the work, you are putting out your money to the exchangers. If you see in any locality that the truth is gaining a foothold, and there is no place of worship, then do something to meet the necessity. By your own action encourage others to act in building a humble house for the worship of God. Have an interest in the work in all parts of the field.
While it is not your own property that you are handling, yet you are made responsible for its wise investment, for its use or abuse. God does not lay upon you the burden of asking the conference or any council of men whether you shall use your means as you see fit to advance the work of God in destitute towns and cities and impoverished localities. If the right plan had been followed, so much means would not have been used in some localities, and so little in other places, where the banner of truth has not been raised. We are not to merge our individuality in judgment in any institution in our world. We are to look to God for wisdom, as did Daniel.
Age after age Jesus has been delivering His goods to His church. At the time of the first advent of Christ to our world, the men who composed the Sanhedrin exercised their authority in controlling men according to their will. If that will were always submerged in God’s will, this would be safe, but when men are separated from God because their will, their wisdom, is made a controlling power, the souls whom Christ had given His life to free from the bondage of Satan, are brought under bondage to him in another form.
Do we individually realize our true position, that as God’s hired servants we are not to bargain away our stewardship? We are to administer the trust committed to us by God as in the view of the heavenly universe. Our own hearts are to be sanctified and stirred, our hands are to have something to impart, of the income that God entrusts to us, as occasion demands. The humblest of us are entrusted with talents and we are to be agents for using our gifts for His name’s glory. It is the duty of everyone <to sense his own responsibility and> to see that his talents are turned to advantage as a gift that he must return, having done his best to improve it. He who improves his talents to the best of his ability may present his offering to God as a consecrated gift that will be as fragrant incense before Him, <a savor of life unto life.>
The change which must come to the natural, inherited, and cultivated tendencies of the human heart is that change of which Jesus spoke when He said to Nicodemus, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [John 3:3.] Nicodemus was a man in high position of trust, a man who was looked up to as one educated in Jewish customs, a man whose mind was stored with wisdom. He was indeed in possession of talents of no ordinary character. He had heard the teaching of Jesus, and his mind had been aroused by the wonderful words. He desired to hear more, but he would not go to Jesus by day; <he was not prepared to meet the jealousy of the scribes and Pharisees, and> it would be too humiliating for a ruler of the Jews to acknowledge himself in sympathy with the despised Nazarene. He sought Him at night, thinking, I will ascertain for myself the mission and claims of this teacher, and see whether He is indeed the light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Israel. “Rabbi,” he said to Jesus, “we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.” [Verse 2.]
“Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [Verse 3.] He virtually said to Nicodemus, It is not controversy that will help your case. Arguments will not bring light to your soul. You must have a new heart, or you cannot discern the kingdom of heaven. It is not greater evidence that will bring you into a right position, but new purposes, new springs of action. You must be born again. Until this change takes place, until all things are made new, the strongest evidence that could be presented would be useless. The want is in your own heart; everything must be changed, or you cannot see the kingdom of God.
To Nicodemus this was a very humiliating statement, and with a feeling of irritation he took up the words of Christ, saying, “How can a man be born again when he is old?” [Verse 4.] He was not spiritual minded enough to discern the meaning of the words of Christ. But the Saviour did not meet argument with argument. Raising His hand in solemn, quiet dignity, He pressed home the truth with greater assurance, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth; so is everyone that is born of the Spirit.” [Verses 5-8.]
Some gleams of truth were penetrating the ruler’s mind. Christ’s words filled him with awe, and led to the inquiry, “How can these things be?” With deep earnestness, Jesus answered, “Art thou a master in Israel, and knowest not these things?” [Verses 9, 10.] Surely one entrusted with the religious interests of the people should not be ignorant of truth so important for them to understand as the condition of entrance into the kingdom of heaven.
Christ’s words conveyed the lesson that instead of feeling irritated over the plain words of truth, and indulging in irony, Nicodemus should have a far more humble opinion of himself because of his spiritual ignorance. Yet the words of Christ were spoken with such solemn dignity, and both look and tone expressed such earnest love, that Nicodemus was not offended as he realized his humiliating position. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee,” continued Jesus, “We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you heavenly things?” [Verses 11, 12.]
I present this lesson to Nicodemus as highly applicable to those who today are in responsible positions as rulers in Israel, and whose voices are often heard in council, giving evidence of the spirit that Nicodemus possessed. The words of Christ are spoken just as verily to presidents of conferences, elders of churches, and those occupying responsible positions in our churches. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [Verse 3.] Will the lesson given to the chief ruler have the same influence on their hearts and lives as it had on his?
Nicodemus was converted as the result of this interview. In that night conference with Jesus, the convicted man stood before the Saviour under the softening, subduing influence of the truth which was shining into the chambers of his mind and impressing his heart. Jesus said to him, “If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.” [Verses 12, 13.]
Jesus not only told Nicodemus that he must have a new heart in order to see the kingdom of heaven, but He told him how to obtain this new heart. He read the inquiring mind of the seeker after truth, and presented before him the representation of Himself: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [Verses 14-16.] Good news, good news, let it ring throughout the world!
Nicodemus caught the meaning of Christ’s words. He received his lesson and became a true believer. He searched the Scriptures in a different way; he could say, Old things have passed away, and, behold, all things have become new. He did begin to see the kingdom of heaven, because he submitted himself to the leading of the Holy Spirit. His voice was heard in the Sanhedrin council, opposing the measures for compassing the death of Christ. “Doth our law judge any man before it hear him?” he asked. The scornful answer was returned, “Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look; for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.” [John 7:51, 52.]
The lesson given to Nicodemus is of the greatest importance to every soul that lives, for the terms of salvation are here laid out in distinct lines; if one had no other text in the Bible, this alone would be a guide to the soul. Especially to every man who accepts responsibilities as a counselor, every one who is dealing with human minds, is this grand, beautiful truth to be a bright and shining light. It is no credit to the one who has the Word of God in his possession to say, I have no experience; I do not understand these things. He never will be wiser until he becomes of much less consequence in his own estimation and a diligent student of the Word of God.
The change of heart represented by the new birth can be brought about only by the effectual working of the Holy Spirit. If it molds and fashions your heart daily, you will have divine insight to perceive the character of the kingdom of God. But pride and self-love have resisted the Spirit of God. Every natural inclination of the soul opposes the change from self-importance and pride to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. It is only through receiving divine light, only through the co-operation of heavenly intelligences, that we can discern the spiritual character of the kingdom of God. Only thus can we have a lively sense of the duties due to all with whom we are brought in contact.
We are under contract to God, in His divine service, to work as Christ worked, not in accordance with natural inclinations, but in accordance with the Spirit of God. But man has woven into the work of God his own defects of character, devices that are human and earthly, delusions, ensnaring to himself and to all who accept them. He must make it his first duty to understand the work of God in the regeneration of the soul. He must learn this lesson as a little child. This change should take place in every man before he accepts a position as leader or ruler in connection with the work of God. If he has not a vital connection with God, his own spirit and sentiments will prevail, and he will offer strange fire in the place of the sacred.
Consider the incident which Christ presented before Nicodemus in referring to the uplifted serpent. The Lord Jesus had protected the children of Israel from the venomous serpents in the wilderness, but this part of their history they did not know. Angels from heaven had accompanied them, and in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, Christ had been their protection through all their journeyings. But they became selfish and discontented, and in order that they might not forget his great care over them, the Lord Jesus gave them a bitter lesson. He permitted them to be bitten by the fiery serpents, but in His great mercy He did not leave them to perish.
Moses was bidden to make a brazen serpent and lift it on the pole, and make the proclamation that whosoever should look upon it should live. And all who looked, did live. They recovered health at once. Suppose ye that this life-giving message, the invitation to look upon the representation of Christ, was given in whispered tones? Suppose ye that there were meetings for discussion as to how the symbol of the brazen serpent could have any efficacy? Some hesitated, desiring a scientific explanation, but no light was given. They must accept the words given by Christ to Moses. It was proclaimed with the trumpet, and by the leading men of every tribe throughout the encampment. The word obeyed would bring life and healing.
What a strange symbol of Christ was that likeness of the serpent which stung them. This symbol was lifted on a pole, and they were to look to it and be healed. So Jesus was made in the likeness of sinful flesh. He came as the Sin-bearer. Under the symbol of the uplifted serpent, He was presented before the vast congregation of those who were entrusted with sacred truth. It was God’s purpose that when Christ should appear in person, men might recognize His mission, and co-operate with Him in the saving of humanity. He was crucified at one of the yearly gatherings of the Jews, when representatives from all nations were present at Jerusalem. The knowledge of the cruel work done to Jesus was to go to the remotest regions of the inhabited world. The message, Look and live, was given in the most decided manner.
The same healing, life-giving message is now sounding. It means hope, courage, faith, pardon, and life. It points to the Saviour, uplifted on the shameful tree. Those who have been bitten by the old serpent, the devil, are bidden to look and live.
Through the Saviour’s lesson, Nicodemus was brought to see that the ignorant and unbelieving are not to be enlightened by controversy and discussion. They must look and live. Nicodemus hoped that his people would let Christ speak to them as He had spoken to him; then they would no longer remain in unbelief. O, that today men would hear the voice of Jesus, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [John 3:3.] The explanation of the plan of salvation may today be presented to men who act as rulers and counselors; and yet, having eyes, they see not, and having ears, they hear not; they have no experimental knowledge of what it means to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. Nicodemus was converted. Will these men learn what it means to have a new heart? and what it means to cease from sin? what it means to have the righteousness of Christ, to bear the divine similitude?
Look only to Jesus as your righteousness and your sacrifice. As you are justified by faith, the deadly sting of the serpent will be healed. Then there will be no more of self; you will have peace with God through Jesus Christ. Open the door of your hearts, and let Jesus in. Some of you have become hard-hearted; you have resisted evidence, and have despised the messages of warning, of light and truth, which the Lord has sent you by the Holy Spirit, because He loves you and is loath to give you up. As a look to the brazen serpent brought life to the dying, so the look of faith to the Lamb of God will bring life to the soul dead in trespasses and sins. The men in responsible positions, <above all others,> need the converting power of God daily, <sanctifying themselves that others may be sanctified.> If they would co-operate with God, looking to Christ every moment, believing in Him as it is their privilege to do, their eyes would be opened, and their hearts would be made new.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [Verse 16.] O, who can measure such love as this? It is not that God loved us because Christ died for us, but while we were yet sinners, rebels against His law, He gave Jesus to bear our sins, that pardon may come to all who believe on Him.
The only hope of the world was for One who knew no sin, One equal with God, to come to our earth, and live the law, testifying that in His humanity He could keep the law, and that sinners might become partakers of the divine nature, and thus be obedient children of God. This is the great work that God has done for the fallen race. He is not willing that any shall perish but that whosoever will, may come to Him through Christ, and live.
Lt 55, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, Australia
September 19, 1895
See also Lt 54, 1895.
Dear Brother:
With this letter I send you other important manuscripts. You will see that I have written largely, but as the dates show, not all has been written recently. For three mails some of these writings have been ready, but were not sent. Sister Bolton has not been able to do this work. Again and again I thought that I would send the [manuscripts] without copying, and had had them enveloped, but I was dissuaded from doing this. Well, I thought, next mail they will be ready, but there was no more prospect of having them prepared. This mail I am separated from Fannie; she is at Cooranbong, and I here; but Marian is giving the matter such preparation as is possible under the circumstances, and reading it for the typewriter.
I do not find rest in spirit. Scene after scene is presented in symbols before me, and I find no rest until I begin to write out the matter. I have not slept since two o’clock. I think we will institute at least once each day a season of prayer for the Lord to set things in order at the center of the work. Matters there are being shaped so that every other institution is following in the same course. And the General Conference is itself becoming corrupted with wrong sentiments and principles. In the working up of plans the same principles are manifest that have controlled matters at Battle Creek for quite a length of time.
I have been shown that the Jewish nation were not brought suddenly into their condition of thought and practice. From generation to generation they were working on false theories, carrying out principles that were opposed to the truth, and combining with their religion thoughts and plans that were the product of human minds; human inventions were made supreme.
The holy principles that God has given are represented by the sacred fire; but common fire has been used in place of the sacred. Plans contrary to truth and righteousness are introduced in a subtle manner on the plea that this must be done, and that must be done, because it is for the advancement of the cause of God. But it is the devising of men that leads to oppression, injustice, and wickedness. The cause of God is [to be] free from every taint of injustice. It can gain no advantage by robbing the members of the family of God of their individuality or of their rights. All such practices are abhorrent to God. He inspires no such practices as have been entered into by your councils in regard to the publication of books.
The case of Frank Belden has been presented to me. The office of publication has treated him unjustly, as it has also Edson White. The plea which some are so ready to urge, “the cause of God,” “working in behalf of the cause of God,” to justify themselves in presenting robbery from burnt offering, is an offense to God. He accepts no such transactions; prosperity will not attend these movements. The Lord of heaven does not accept the strange fire offered to Him. Men connected with His work have been dealing unjustly, and it is time to call a halt.
Let men deal with men upon the principles of the ten commandments, and not ignore these principles in business transactions. False propositions are assumed as truth and righteousness, and then everything is worked in such a way as to carry out these propositions, which are not in accordance with the will of God, but are a misrepresentation of His character.
The great and holy and merciful God will never be in league with dishonest practices; not a single touch of injustice will He vindicate. Men have taken unfair advantage of those whom they supposed to be under their jurisdiction. They were determined to bring the individuals to their terms; they would rule or ruin. There will be no material change until a decided movement is made to bring in a different order of things.
Cannot men who have the history of the fall, the workings of the wily foe since Adam’s day, see how the same principles are still at work, and what will be the end thereof? He who has created men, and has given them talent and intellect, seeks to bring these minds into association with the divine; then goodness, love for their fellow men, will be their natural instinct. Infinite wisdom is revealed in Christ, and He suffered in our stead, that men should have another test and trial to prove whether they would be safe subjects of His kingdom. Christ has risen from the dead and ascended on high to intercede for the fallen race. This is now His work before the throne of God. He would have men to love God supremely, and their fellow men impartially. It is His purpose that we should be closely attached to God, and tenderly attached to one another.
Such was the condition that existed in heaven before the disaffection of Satan. The heavenly current flowed through the universe of God without one cloud of evil to cast a shadow upon its bright waters. Everywhere spotless purity was reflected as in a mirror. And God was over all. But Satan fell. The human race was created. Adam and Eve fell. And now the Lord Jesus has Himself bridged the gulf that sin has made, and the whole scheme of redemption has been put in operation to restore the moral image of God in man.
We are all on trial during probationary time, and those who consent to receive the moral image of God become like Him in character. But if they refuse the character of Christ, heaven is lost to them. And when we have so gracious an opportunity of working out our own victory through our choice of the character we form, why will we not lay hold of the Saviour, and by faith receive His merits, and perfect a character like His? Satan is playing the game of life for every soul; Christ is at work for every soul. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them which believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12-14.] These words are written of Christ. He is our representative before the Father. Whatsoever was given to Christ—the “all things” to supply every need of fallen man—was given to Him as the head and representative of humanity. Who will be the receivers of eternal life? All who before the universe of heaven are adjudged to have in Christ endured the penalty of the law, and in Him fulfilled its righteousness. We are to be one in character with Christ. He said, “The glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.] Mark these words.
There is a heaven of bliss, free from all dissension, free from all selfishness, free from poverty, sickness, oppression. Then I entreat you who have a heaven to gain and a hell to shun, Do not be presumptuous. Link up in the closest relationship with Christ, and depart from every species of iniquity. That character which expresses the glory, the character of Christ, will be received into the Paradise of God. A renovated race will walk with Christ in white, for they are worthy. The likeness of Christ’s character is revealed in every soul. There is a new heaven, and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. O shall we not here form characters after the divine similitude? Shall we not become transformed into the likeness of God? If Christ died to destroy the works of the devil, it is essential for us to understand what these works are.
The divine decrees are to be vindicated; it will be demonstrated that they are not accessory to sin. There was not withdrawal of divine influences from Lucifer. There was not in the slightest particular a deficiency in God’s government that would afford a cause for disaffection in heaven. So in the administration of affairs in connection with God’s work on earth, He requires that those who bear the responsibility of the work give no cause for disaffection. Those principles must be maintained that are according to heaven’s order.
It was a wonderful thing for God to create man, to make mind. The glory of God is to be revealed in the creation of man in God’s image, and in his redemption. One soul is of more value than a world. God created man that every faculty might be the faculty of the divine mind. The Lord Jesus Christ is the Author of our being, and He is also the Author of our redemption, and everyone who will enter the kingdom of God will develop a character that is the counterpart of the character of God. None can dwell with God in the holy heaven but those who bear His likeness. Those who are to be redeemed are to be overcomers; they are to be elevated, pure, one with Christ.
Christ’s blood was our ransom, His death brings life and immortality to light. In and through Christ we are complete in every grace. We share His throne. O that God would give us the divine perception to comprehend the breadth, and length, and depth and height, and to know the love of Christ that passeth knowledge, that we might be filled with the fullness of God! Then would man look upon his fellow man as God’s own purchased possession. You would keep your own souls in the love of God, and would not undertake to lord it over His heritage.
Christ said of the Jews, “In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: for this people’s heart is waxen gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed.” [Matthew 13:14, 15.] Thus it is with some men who are connected with the great and important interests in our institutions.
Let all bear in mind that the Lord’s eye is upon all their works, and that He expects fidelity from His servants. When the four Hebrew youth were receiving an education for the king’s court in Babylon, they did not feel that the blessing of the Lord was a substitute for the taxing effort required of them. They were diligent in study, for they discerned that through the grace of God their destiny depended upon their own will and action. They were to bring all their ability to the work; and by close, severe taxation of their powers, they were to make the most of their opportunities for study and labor.
September 24
Everything in our world is in agitation. “Coming events cast their shadows before.” The signs of the times are ominous indeed. There is assurance in nothing that is human or earthly. The winds are held by the four angels, a moment of respite has been graciously given us of God. Every power lent us of God, whether physical, mental, or moral, is to be sacredly cherished to do the work designed us for our fellow men who are perishing in their ignorance. The warning is to go forth to all parts of the world. There must be no delay.
Rapidly are men ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen, restlessly waiting and watching the movements of their leaders. There are those who are watching and waiting and working for our Lord’s appearing, while the other party are rapidly falling into line under the generalship of the first great apostate. They look for a god in humanity, and Satan personifies the one they seek. Multitudes will be so deluded through their rejection of truth that they will accept the counterfeit. Humanity is hailed as God.
One has come from the heavenly courts to represent God in human form. The Son of God was made man, and dwelt among us. “In him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not. … That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:4, 5, 9-12.]
There are but two parties, Satan works with his crooked, deceiving power, and through strong delusions he catches all who do not abide in the truth, who have turned away their ears from the truth, and have turned unto fables. Satan himself abode not in the truth; he is the mystery of iniquity. Through his subtlety he gives to his soul-destroying errors the appearance of truth. Herein is their power to deceive. It is because they are a counterfeit of the truth that spiritualism, theosophy, and the like deceptions gain such power over the minds of men. Herein is the masterly working of Satan. He pretends to be the Saviour of man, the benefactor of the human race, and thus he more readily lures his victims to destruction.
We are warned in the Word of God that sleepless vigilance is the price of safety. Only in the straight path of truth and righteousness can we escape the tempter’s power. But the world is ensnared. Satan’s skill is exercised in devising plans and methods without number to accomplish his purposes. Dissimulation has become a fine art with him, and he works in the guise of an angel of light. God’s eye alone discerns his schemes to contaminate the world with false and ruinous principles, bearing on their face the appearance of genuine goodness. He works to restrict religious liberty, and to bring into the religious world a species of slavery.
Organizations, institutions, unless kept by the power of God, will work under Satan’s dictation to bring men under the control of men; and fraud and guile will bear the semblance of zeal for truth, and for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Whatever in our practice is not as open as the day, belongs to the methods of the prince of evil. His methods are practiced even among Seventh-day Adventists, who claim to have advanced truth.
If men resist the warnings the Lord sends them, they become even leaders in evil practices; such men assume to exercise the prerogatives of God—they presume to do that which God Himself will not do in seeking to control the minds of men. They introduce their own methods and plans, and through their misconceptions of God, they weaken the faith of others in the truth and bring in false principles that will work like leaven to taint and corrupt our institutions and churches. Anything that lowers man’s conception of righteousness and equity and impartial judgments, any device or precept that brings God’s human agents under the control of human minds, impairs their faith in God; it separates the soul from God, for it leads away from the path of strict integrity and righteousness.
God will not vindicate any device whereby men shall in the slightest degree rule or oppress his fellow man. The only hope for fallen man is to look to Jesus, and receive Him as the only Saviour. As soon as man begins to make an iron rule for other men, as soon as he begins to harness up and drive men according to his own mind, he dishonors God, and imperils his own soul and the souls of his brethren. Sinful man can find hope and righteousness only in God; and no human being is righteous any longer than he has faith in God and maintains a vital connection with Him. A flower of the field must have its root in the soil; it must have air, dew, showers, and sunshine. It will flourish only as it receives these advantages, and all are from God. So with men. We receive from God that which ministers to the life of the soul. We are warned not to trust in man, nor to make flesh our arm. A curse is pronounced upon all who do this.
Let no plans or methods be brought into any of our institutions that will bind minds or talents under the control of human judgment, for this is not in God’s order. God has given to men talents of influence which belong to Him alone, and no greater dishonor can be done to God than for one finite agent to purchase from men their God-given talent, or the product of such talent, to be absolutely under his control, even though the benefits of the same be used to the advantage of the cause. In such arrangements one man’s mind is ruled by another man’s mind, and the human agency is separated from God and exposed to temptations. Satan’s methods tend to one end, to make men the slaves of men. And when this is done, confusion and distrust, jealousies and evil surmisings are the result. Such a course destroys man’s faith in God, and in the principles which are to control, to purge from guile and from every species of selfishness and hypocrisy.
The goodness, mercy, and love of God was proclaimed by Christ to Moses. This was God’s character. When men who profess to serve God ignore His parental character, and depart from honor and righteousness in dealing with their fellow men, Satan exults, for he has inspired them with his attributes. They are following in the track of Romanism. Those who are enjoined to represent the attributes of the Lord’s character step from the Bible platform, and in their own human judgment devise rules and resolutions to force the will of others. The devisings for forcing men to follow the prescriptions of other men are instituting an order of things that overrides sympathy and tender compassion, that blinds the eyes to mercy, justice, and the love of God. Moral influence and personal responsibility are trodden under foot.
The righteousness of Christ by faith has been ignored by some, for it is contrary to their spirit, and their whole life experience. Rule, rule, has been their course of action. Satan has had an opportunity of representing himself. When one who professes to be a representative of Christ engages in sharp dealing and pressing men into hard places, those who are thus oppressed will either break every fetter of restraint, or they will be led to regard God as a hard master. They cherish hard feelings against God, and the soul is alienated from Him, just as Satan planned it should be.
This hard-heartedness on the part of men who claim to believe the truth, Satan charges to the influence of the truth itself, and thus men become disgusted, and turn from the truth. For this reason no man should have a responsible connection with our institutions who thinks it no important matter whether he has a heart of flesh or a heart of steel. Men think they are representing the justice of God, and they do not represent His tenderness and the great love wherewith He has loved us. Their human invention, originating with the specious devices of Satan, appears fair enough to the blinded eyes of men, because it is inherent in their nature.
A lie, believed, practiced, becomes as truth to them. Thus the purpose of the satanic agencies is accomplished, that men should reach these conclusions through the working of their own inventive minds. But how do men fall into such error? By starting with false premises, and then bringing everything to bear to prove the error true. In some cases the first principles have a measure of truth interwoven with the error, but it does not lead to just actions, and this is why men are misled. In order to reign and become a power, they employ Satan’s methods to justify their own principles. They exalt themselves as men of superior judgment, and they have stood as representatives of God. These are false gods.
“Thus saith the Lord: cursed be the man that trusteth in man and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land, and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. … O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from thee shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living water.” [Jeremiah 17:5-10, 13.]
Elder Olsen, the present state of things has continued long enough. Your spiritual eyesight has become imperfect. You link up with men whom God is not leading. You accept as sound the propositions of men, who in some things start you on a wrong track, for you sanction these propositions and give them authority and power. I am not sorry that these things, which have been so long brewing in unsanctified minds have become more pronounced, that you may the better discern their true character before some other agent shall come in to preside over the conference your place. I now beg of you to arise in the name of the Lord, and He will help you to retrieve the errors of the past that are leading to serious results.
The lack of consecration and self-denial on the part of leading men, their spurious devotion, has been made manifest in the grasping of the high wages, and in their resistance to the messages that God has sent. They have continually and persistently turned from these warnings, and yet you have given them influence, you have linked up _____ and _____ together, and sent them to different localities to transact business, giving the impression that they were the reliable men upon whom you depended. How could you do this, when it is too apparent that they need to be born again before they can see the kingdom of God? They need the work of the truth upon the heart to make them men of opportunity.
While they have been very ready to accept benefits for themselves, they seek to wrest every advantage from their brethren, and say that it is for the cause. What is the cause? God demands an altogether different record. He expects His workers to be tender-hearted. How merciful are the ways of God. See Deuteronomy 10:17-20; 2 Chronicles 20:5-7, 9; 1 Peter 1:17. The rules that God has given have been disregarded, and strange fire has been offered before the Lord.
I have borne abundant testimony, setting forth the fact that the ability to write a book is like every other talent, a gift from God, for which the possessor is accountable to Him. This talent no man can buy or sell without incurring great and dangerous responsibility. Those who labor to bring about changes in the publication of books, to place the books wholly under the control of the publishing house or the conference, know not what they are talking about. Their eyes are blinded, and they work from a wrong standpoint. Selfishness is a root of bitterness whereby many are defiled.
The Lord God of heaven who made our world, and who created man, guards the interest of every soul. To every man He has given his work. We are laborers together with God. There are diversities of gifts, and every man should appreciate the moral and spiritual capital which God has entrusted to him. No one should treat these entrusted talents with indifference. No one is accountable for talents he has never had; none should complain of the smallness of their gifts. Every one is to trade on that which God has entrusted to him, working where he can, doing the best possible service for the Master. One talent, well used, will gain other talents, and these still others. The man with a few pence can serve God with his pence; if he does this, he is in God’s sight judged as faithful as the one who has improved five talents.
But all are to realize their individual responsibility to employ their talents to the glory of God according to their ability. Let no man or council of men assume the responsibility of making as little of these talents as possible, according to their human estimate of God’s entrusted qualifications. No man is to weigh in the balances of human judgment the talents God has given to other men. Let every man appreciate God’s gifts to himself, and faithfully trade upon them. No man is to merge his individuality in that of any other man. No man should be urged to make another man his steward. There are diversities of gifts, and a large work to be done in our world in the use of God’s entrusted goods, and the efforts that have been made to turn all the profits from the talents of writers into the hands of the conference or the publishing house will not prove a success, for the plan is not just and equal.
From the light given me of God, the efforts made in this direction by those at the heart of the work are not heaven-inspired. It is a very narrow, conceited arrangement, devised by human minds, and it does not bear the marks of God. Every man’s special work is appointed him of God, and he is individually responsible to God. When men connected with the publishing business make decisions and transact business as they have done and fully proposed to do at Battle Creek, they give evidence that changes should be made as soon as possible, for God is not in any such plan.
Let men be connected with God’s work who will represent His character. They may have much to learn in regard to business management, but if they pray to God as did Daniel, if with true contrition of mind they seek that wisdom which comes from above, the Lord will give them an understanding heart. Read carefully and prayerfully the third chapter of James, especially verses 13-16. The whole chapter is an eye-opener, if men wish to open their eyes.
Those who write books are not to be left under the control of men who have no experimental knowledge of authorship. These men have a high appreciation of their own ability, but they have shown how little they appreciate the human agent, to whom God has given a certain work to do. They belittle men to whom God has given talents to use to His glory. He never designed that any man should sell his stewardship, as though he was not capable of managing the talents God has given him. The idea which prevails that in order to give to the cause of God, a writer, must place all the profits of his work, beyond a mere pittance, where other men shall control it for him, or invest as shall suit their ideas, is an error.
Long ago, when such ideas were first advanced, they should have been treated as they deserved. Men were taking into their own hands responsibilities which they were not capable of treating justly or managing successfully. They have given evidence of this in the past in the fact that they would resort to unfair means in order to wring from men God’s entrusted talents for themselves to appropriate. But the very persons whom God has entrusted with his goods, are held responsible to trade upon them, and thus develop character. Can any more striking demonstration be required to open the eyes of men and councils to this matter than the history of the past few years?
Every soul who has become the servant of God through the grace of Christ has his own peculiar sphere of labor. He is not to be bought or sold, but to understand that “ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” [1 Peter 1:18-22.] Who have greater need to be doers of this inspired injunction than have those who are living in the very close of this earth’s history?
It is not our own property that is entrusted to us for investment. If it had been, we might claim discretionary power; we might shift the responsibility upon others, and leave our stewardship with others, but this cannot be, because the Lord is testing us individually. If we act wisely in trading upon our Lord’s goods and multiplying the talents, we shall invest this gain for the Master, praying for wisdom from God that we may be divested of all selfishness, and laboring most earnestly to advance the precious truth in our world.
Some men or councils may say, That is just what we wish you to do. The Conference Committee will take your capital, and will appropriate it for this very object. But the Lord has made us individually His stewards. We each hold a solemn responsibility to invest this means ourselves. A portion it is right to place in the treasury to advance the general interests of the work; but the steward of means will not be guiltless before God, unless, so far as he is able to do this, he shall use that means as circumstances shall reveal the necessity. We should be ready to help the suffering, and to set in operation plans to advance the truth in various ways. It is not in the province of the conference or any other organization to relieve us of this stewardship. If you lack wisdom, go to God; ask Him for yourself, and then work with an eye single to His glory.
By exercising your own judgment, giving where you see there is need in any line of the work, you are putting out your money to the exchangers. If you see in any locality that the truth is gaining a foothold, and there is no place of worship, then do something to meet the necessity. By your own action encourage others to act, in building a humble house for the worship of God. Have an interest in the work in all parts of the field.
While it is not your property that you are handling, yet you are made responsible for its wise investment, for its use or abuse. God does not lay upon you the burden of asking the conference or any council if you shall use your own means as you shall see fit, to advance the work of God in destitute towns and cities and impoverished localities. If the right plan had been followed, there would not have been so much means used in some localities and so little in other places where the banner of truth has not been raised. We are not to merge our individuality in any institution in our world.
The high-handed power that has been developed, as though positions had made men gods, makes me afraid, and ought to cause fear. It is a curse wherever and by whomsoever it is exercised. This lording it over God’s heritage will create such a disgust of man’s jurisdiction that a state of insubordination will result. The people are learning that men in high positions of responsibility cannot be trusted to mold and fashion other men’s minds and characters. The result will be a loss of confidence even in the management of faithful men. But the Lord will raise up laborers who realize their own nothingness without special help from God.
Age after age Jesus has been delivering His goods to His church. At the time of the first advent of Christ to our world the men who composed the Sanhedrin exercised their authority in controlling men according to their will. Thus the souls whom Christ had given His life to free from the bondage of Satan were brought under bondage to him in another form.
Do we individually realize our true position that as God’s hired servants we are not to bargain away our stewardship? We have an individual accountability before the heavenly universe to administer the trust committed us of God. Our own hearts are to be stirred, our hands are to have something to impart of the income that God entrusts to us. The humblest of us may be an agent for God, using our gifts for His name’s glory. He who improves his talents to the best of his ability may present to God his offering as a consecrated gift that shall be as fragrant incense before Him. It is the duty of every one to see that his talents are turned to advantage as a gift that he must return, having done his best to improve it.
The spirit of domination is extending to the presidents of our conferences. If a man is sanguine of his own powers and seeks to exercise dominion over his brethren, feeling that he is invested with authority to make his will the ruling power, the best and only safe course is to remove him, lest great harm be done, and he lose his own soul and imperil the souls of others. “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] This disposition to lord it over God’s heritage will cause a reaction unless these men change their course. Those in authority should manifest the Spirit of Christ. They should deal as He would deal with every case that requires attention. They should go weighted with the Holy Spirit. A man’s position does not make him one jot or tittle greater in the sight of God; it is character alone that God values.
Nicodemus sought an interview with Jesus at night saying, “Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.” All this was true, as far as it went, but what said Jesus? He “answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [John 3:2, 3.] Here was a man in high position of trust, a man who was looked up to as one educated in Jewish customs, one whose mind was stored with wisdom. He was indeed in possession of talents of no ordinary character. He would not go to Jesus by day, for this would make him the subject of remark. It would be too humiliating for a ruler of the Jews to acknowledge himself in sympathy with the despised Nazarene.
Nicodemus thinks, I will ascertain for myself the mission and claims of this teacher, whether He is indeed the light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Israel. Jesus virtually says to Nicodemus, It is not controversy that will help your case. It is not arguments that will bring light to the soul. You must have a new heart, or you cannot discern the kingdom of heaven. It is not greater evidence that will bring you into a right position, but new purposes, new springs of action; you must be born again. Until this change takes place, making all things new, the strongest evidences that could be presented would be useless. The want is in your own heart; everything must be changed, or you cannot see the kingdom of God.
This was a very humiliating statement to Nicodemus, and with a feeling of irritation he takes up the words of Christ, saying, “How can a man be born when he is old?” [Verse 4.] He was not spiritual minded enough to discern the meaning of the words of Christ. But the Saviour did not meet argument with argument. Raising His hand in solemn, quiet dignity, He presses home the truth with greater assurance, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is very one that is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said unto him, “How can these things be?” [Verses 5-9.]
Some gleams of the truth were penetrating the ruler’s mind. Christ’s words filled him with awe, and led to the inquiry, “How can these things be?” With deep earnestness Jesus answered, “Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?” [Verses 9, 10.] His words convey to Nicodemus the lesson that instead of feeling irritated over the plain words of truth, and indulging in irony, he should have a far more humble opinion of himself, because of his spiritual ignorance. Yet the words of Christ were spoken with such solemn dignity, and both look and tone expressed such earnest love to him, that he was not offended as he realized his humiliating position.
Surely one entrusted with the religious interests of the people should not be ignorant of truth so important for them to understand as the condition of entrance into the kingdom of heaven. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee,” continued Jesus, “We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you heavenly things?” [Verses 11, 12.]
This lesson to Nicodemus I present as highly applicable to those who are today in responsible positions as rulers in Israel, and whose voices are often heard in council giving evidence of the same spirit that Nicodemus possessed. Will the lesson given to the chief ruler have the same influence upon their heart and life? Nicodemus was converted as the result of this interview. The words of Christ are spoken just as verily to presidents of conferences, elders of churches, and those occupying official positions in our institutions, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [Verse 3.] “A new heart also will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.]
If you have the Holy Spirit molding and fashioning your heart daily, then you will have divine insight to perceive the character of the kingdom of God. Nicodemus received the lesson of Christ and became a true believer. His voice was heard in the Sanhedrin council in opposition to their measures for compassing the death of Christ. “Doth our law judge any man before it hear him?” he said. The scornful answer was returned, “Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look; for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.” [John 7:51, 52.]
Jesus had a disciple in Nicodemus. In that night conference with Jesus the convicted man stood before the Saviour under the softening, subduing influence of truth which was shining into the chambers of his mind, and impressing his heart. Jesus said, “If I have told you earthly things, and ye believed not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.” [John 3:12, 13.]
Jesus not only tells Nicodemus that he must have a new heart in order to see the kingdom of heaven, but tells him how to obtain a new heart. He reads the inquiring mind of a true seeker after truth, and presents before him the representation of himself: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” Good news, good news, ring the good news throughout the world! “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [Verses 14-16.] This lesson is of the greatest importance to every soul that lives, for the terms of salvation are here laid out in distinct lines; if one had no other text in the Bible this alone would be a guide for the soul.
Especially to every man who accepts responsibilities as a counselor, every one who is dealing with human souls, is this grand, beautiful truth to be a bright and shining light. It is no credit to one who has the Word of God in his possession to say, I have no experience. I do not understand these things. He will never be wiser until he becomes of much less consequence in his own estimation. He must learn his lesson as a little child. He must make it his first duty to understand the work of God in the regeneration of the soul. This change should take place in every man before he accepts a position as leader or ruler in connection with the sacred work of God. If one has not a vital connection with God, his own spirit and sentiments will prevail. These may well be represented as the strange fire offered in place of the sacred. Man has woven into the work of God his own defects of character, devices that are human and earthly, delusions ensnaring to himself and to all who accept them.
Consider the incident that Christ presents before Nicodemus in referring to the uplifted serpent. The Lord Jesus had protected the children of Israel from the venomous serpents in the wilderness, but this part of their history they did not know. Angels from heaven had accompanied them, and in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night Christ had been their protection through all their journeyings. But they became selfish and discontented, and in order that they might not forget His great care over them, the Lord gave them a bitter lesson. He permitted them to be bitten by the fiery serpents, yet in His great mercy He did not leave them to perish.
Moses was bidden to lift the brazen serpent on the pole, and make the proclamation that whosoever should look upon it should live. And all who looked, did live. They recovered health at once. Suppose ye that this life-giving message, the invitation to look upon the representation of Christ, was given in whispered tones? Suppose ye there were meetings for discussion as to how that symbol of the brazen serpent could have any efficacy? Some hesitated, desiring a scientific explanation of the representation, but no light was given. They must accept the word given <of Christ> to Moses. It was proclaimed with the trumpet, and by the voices of the leading men of every tribe throughout the encampment. The word obeyed would bring life and healing.
Nicodemus caught the meaning of Christ’s words. He received his lesson, and carried it with him. He searched the Scriptures in a new way; he could say, Old things have passed away, and behold, all things have become new. He did begin to see the kingdom of heaven, because he submitted himself to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
What a strange symbol of Christ was that likeness of the serpents which stung them. This symbol was lifted on a pole, and they were to look to it and be healed. So Jesus was made in the likeness of sinful flesh. He came as the Sin-bearer. Under the symbol of the uplifted serpent, He was presented before the vast congregation of those who were entrusted with sacred truth. It was God’s purpose that when Christ should appear in person, men might recognize His mission and co-operate with Him in the saving of humanity. Christ was to be lifted on the cross, and this cross is to call the attention of all people. He was crucified at one of the yearly gatherings of the Jews, when representatives from all nations were present at Jerusalem. The knowledge of the cruel work done to Jesus was to go to the remotest regions of the inhabited world. The message, Look and live, had been given in a most decided manner, and it meant hope, courage, faith, pardon, and life.
The same healing, life-giving message is now sounding. It points to the uplifted Saviour upon the shameful tree. Those who have been bitten by that old serpent, the devil, are bidden to look and live.
Through the Saviour’s lesson, Nicodemus was brought to see that the ignorant and unbelieving are not to be enlightened by controversy and discussion. They must look and live. Nicodemus hoped that his people would let Christ speak to them as He had spoken to him; then they would no longer remain in unbelief. O that today men would hear the voice of Jesus, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [Verse 3.] The explanation of the plan of salvation may today be presented to men who act as rulers and counselors, and yet, having eyes, they see not, and having ears, they hear not; they have no experimental knowledge of what it means to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. Nicodemus was converted. Will these men learn what it means to have a new heart? what it means to cease from sin? what it means to have the righteousness of Christ, to bear the divine similitude?
Look alone to Jesus as your righteousness and your sacrifice. As you are justified by faith, the deadly sting of the serpent will be healed. Then there will be no more of self; you will have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Open the door of your hearts, and let Jesus in. Some of you have become hard-hearted; you have resisted evidence, and have despised the messages of warning, of light and truth, which the Lord has sent to you by the Holy Spirit, because He loves you and is loath to give you up. As a look to the brazen serpent brought life to the dying, so the look of faith to the Lamb of God will bring life to the soul dead in trespasses and sins. The men in responsible places need the converting power of God daily. If they would co-operate with God, looking to Christ every moment, believing in Him as it is their privilege to do, their eyes would be opened and their hearts would be made new.
“God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [Verse 16.] O, who can measure such love as this? It is not that God loved us because Christ died for us, but while we were yet sinners, rebels against His law, He gave up Jesus to bear our sins, that pardon may come to all who believe on Him. The only hope of the world was for One who knew no sin, One equal with God, to come to our earth and live the law, testifying that in His humanity He could keep the law, and that sinners might become partakers of the divine nature, and thus be obedient children of God. This is the great work that God has done for the fallen race. He was not willing that any should perish, but that whosoever will, should come to Him through Christ, and live.
Let us never forget that we are here to be fashioned by the hand of God, fitted to do the work He has given us to do. That work is our own, the accountability is our own and cannot be transferred to another. Let not human agents interpose to take another’s work out of the hands of God into their own finite hands.
Lt 56, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
North Fitzroy, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
May 27, 1895
Dear Brother:
On Sabbath, May 25, we had a most precious meeting in the hall where our people meet at North Fitzroy. For several days before the meeting, I knew that I was expected to speak in the church on Sabbath; but unfortunately I had a severe cold, and was quite hoarse. I felt inclined to excuse myself from this appointment, but as it was my only opportunity, I said, “I will place myself before the people, and I believe the Lord will answer my earnest prayers and remove the hoarseness so that I can present my message to the people.” I presented to my heavenly Father the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened … If ye then being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children; how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” [Luke 11:9, 10, 13.] Again Christ says, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [John 14:13.]
The Word of God is sure. I had asked, and I believed that I would be enabled to speak to the people. I selected a portion of scripture; but when I rose to speak, it was taken from my mind, and I felt impressed to speak from the first chapter of Second Peter. The Lord gave me special freedom in presenting the value of the grace of God. How much is His grace to be appreciated! The apostle says, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us unto glory and virtue; whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [Verses 2-4.]
I was enabled by the aid of the Holy Spirit to speak with clearness and power. At the close of my discourse, I felt impressed by the Spirit of God to extend an invitation for all those to come forward who desired to give themselves fully to the Lord. Those who felt the need of the prayers of the servants of God were invited to make it manifest. About thirty came forward. Among these were the wives of the Brethren Anderson, who for the first time made manifest their desire to come near to God. My heart was filled with unspeakable gratitude because of the movement made by these two women.
I could then see why I was so earnestly moved to make this invitation. At first I had hesitated, wondering if it were best to do so when Willie and myself were the only ones whom I could see who would give us any help on that occasion. But as though someone had spoken to me, the thought passed through my mind, “Cannot you trust in the Lord?” I said, “I will, Lord.” Although my son was much surprised that I should make such a call on this occasion, yet he was equal to the emergency. I never heard him speak with greater power or deeper feeling than at that time. He called upon Brethren Faulkhead and Salisbury to come forward and we knelt in prayer. Willie took the lead, and the Lord surely indited his petition, for he seemed to pray as though in the presence of God. Brethren Faulkhead and Salisbury also presented fervent petitions, and then the Lord gave me a voice to pray. I remembered the Sisters Anderson, who for the first time were taking a public stand for the truth. The Holy Spirit of God was in the meeting, and many were stirred by its deep movings.
At the close of the meeting, many pressed their way to the platform, and taking me by the hand, requested me with tears in their eyes to pray for them. I answered heartily, “I will.” The Sisters Anderson were introduced to me, and I found that their hearts were very tender.
I will tell you a little more definitely about the situation of these Anderson brothers and their wives. Brother Somerville was the first one who interested these men in the truth. He requested the help of Brother Starr in giving them Bible readings, and through these influences they were led to come upon the Brighton campground. They were delighted with the cotton city, and decided to have a tent for their families, and thus be able to receive the benefit of the meetings. The wives could be on the ground whenever they chose, but the husbands could only attend the meetings when their business permitted. But they did this, placing themselves in the channel of light where the heavenly current could flow to their souls. They were converted and baptized. From that time they closed their music store on the Sabbath.
The father was very much troubled over their course, but they not only refused to do business themselves, but would not allow him to open their music store to do business on the Sabbath himself. It was a very trying experience for them, but through the help of the Lord the matter was adjusted, and the brothers went on with their business without leaving the truth. They had to suffer the affliction of opposition from father and mother and relatives. The mother of one of the sisters who has now taken her position on the truth has been a most bitter opposer, and has threatened that if her daughter did become a Sabbathkeeper, she would not allow her to enter her home, for the mother looked upon her as a disgrace to the family. A short time ago Brother and Sister Anderson lost a little child, but this mother would not attend the funeral.
Mrs. Anderson had often made the statement that she would never join the Seventh-day Adventists. She had been brought up in the Presbyterian church, and had been educated to think that it was very improper for women to speak in meeting, and that for a woman to preach was altogether beyond the bounds of propriety. She enjoyed hearing Elders Daniells and Corliss, and thought them very clever speakers, but she would not listen to a woman’s preaching. Her husband had prayed that God would so arrange matters that she might be converted under the ministry of Sister White. When I made the appeal, and urged those to come forward who felt their need of drawing nearer to God, to the surprise of all, these sisters came forward. The sister who had lost her little one said that she was determined that she would not move forward, but the Spirit of the Lord so forcibly impressed her mind that she dared not refuse.
When the Brethren Anderson saw their wives going forward, they said they felt like leaping and praising God. They could hardly believe their own eyes. These men have proved God’s promise true, for in asking they have received, and their faith has been greatly increased in Him who has made every promise sure in Jesus Christ.
My faith also was rewarded, and although difficulty was brought upon me by the prevailing epidemic, still the Lord sustained me, and lifted upon me the health of His countenance. I feel so grateful to my heavenly Father for His loving kindness in bringing these two precious souls to unite with their husbands in obeying the truth. They have counted the cost before they have entered upon the Christian warfare. For some time these sisters have been attending the Sabbath school. They brought the little children with them, that they might receive the benefit of the instruction in the smaller classes, while they themselves have felt that they have gained much instruction in studying the lessons of the senior division. They were much nearer belief in the truth, nearer the kingdom of heaven, than they themselves had thought.
This Sabbath day was a precious day. Was there not joy in heaven over these two souls who had received Christ? John says, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among them, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and peace … And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [John 1:12-14, 16.]
This precious experience is one of the results of the Brighton camp meeting. The influence of that meeting is far-reaching. The people have not yet forgotten it, but far and near it is spoken of in decidedly favorable terms. Should another camp meeting be held in the vicinity of Melbourne, we have no doubt but that it would accomplish great good. It would be the means of aiding many, who have received light and have not yet acknowledged the truth, to take their position in the ranks of commandment keepers.
Today I have been in a council meeting where a resolution was offered to the effect that the next camp meeting should be held in Ballarat, but before the vote was taken, I said, I fear you are making a mistake in deciding to hold our camp meeting in Ballarat this year. The Brighton camp meeting was successful far beyond our expectations, and from the light I have received concerning that meeting, I know that none of us have had a proper estimate of its wide-spreading influence. Impressions have been made upon minds that nothing has been able to efface. The efforts of ministers and people to undo the work of that camp meeting has to a large degree been unavailing. Hundreds are reading their Bibles with heartfelt desires to know the truth. The Spirit of the Lord is drawing them to Himself, though at present they are confused by the conflicting opinions of men.
The Lord has wrought since the camp meeting in Brighton. One season has passed since it was held, and should another season pass by, it would result in great loss. There were many who are far from Melbourne, who may not be able to be present at the camp meeting should it be held there, but the Lord has done much for His people.
As an outgrowth of the Brighton camp meeting several churches have been raised up. I visited the church in Williamstown and rejoiced to see that many have had moral courage to manifest their loyalty to the commandments of God in spite of the continual opposition and contempt that has been heaped upon them and upon God’s holy law. They had sought earnestly for truth, and the feelings of the earnest seeker after truth are expressed in the words of the Psalmist where he says, “It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right, and I hate every false way. Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [Psalm 119:126-130.]
A church has also been raised up in Hawthorn, and another in Brighton. About sixty belong to these two churches. A large number of new members have been added to the Prahran church and to the church in North Fitzroy. A number of members have also moved away; but persons are continually coming in who heard the truth at the Brighton camp meeting. The Lord is drawing, and some are responding to His drawing. It would be a mistake to take the camp meeting to Ballarat. Let the meeting be held where the people are, that they may not only attend, but sustain it. Let it be held where persons who have had their minds exercised may have the benefit of hearing again the reasons of our faith. The truth may be presented also to a class who have never before heard it. Were the tents pitched in a new locality, a new class of hearers would be reached.
Some will say that these camp meetings are very expensive, and that the conference cannot afford to support another such meeting, but when we look at the three churches that have been organized and are prospering in the faith, can we hesitate in answering the question, Will it pay? Shall we not raise our voices in decided affirmation? It will pay.
Lt 57, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Hobart, Tasmania
May 1, 1895
Elder O. A. Olsen
Battle Creek, Michigan
Dear Brother:
I am deeply burdened; but what shall I say? I am troubled for you, my much-respected brother. I am bowed down with anguish of spirit, for the situation is becoming more and more perplexing.
A net has been spread to involve the Conference, a net that the people know not of, and that very few suspect the existence of. The condition of things is binding your hands and hindering the work. The crisis will soon be reached. The state of things is not fully revealed to me, but this much I know: to a great degree, the management of finances has been conducted on wrong principles. While all is supposed to be prosperous, there is peril.
You have connected with you men who have no living connection with God. You fear to exercise your judgment, lest there should be an explosion. This is why I feel so sad. I have written out matters that I dared not send to you, unless there were persons of a firm, decided character who would stand by your side as true yoke fellows to sustain you. The two men who have been especially associated with you should, in their present spiritual condition, have no part in planning and carrying forward the work of God in any of its various lines. If they were to see themselves as God sees them, and fall upon the Rock and be broken, a decided change would appear in them. Confessions would be made to free their souls from every corrupting influence.
These men are saying in their hearts, “My Lord delayeth his coming;” and the thought is not only expressed in action but in words. “Be not deceived in regard to Christ’s speedy appearing,” these false guides are saying. “Peace and safety. The time is not yet. All things continue as they were from the beginning.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3; 2 Peter 3:4.] They are denying the truth in their spirit, in their works, and in their words. They come under the denunciation of Christ: “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth His coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Matthew 24:48-51.] See also Luke 8:12, 13; Matthew 11:23-25.
Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold. There are many who have outgrown their advent faith. They are living for the world, and while saying in their hearts, as they desire it shall be, “My Lord delayeth His coming,” they have beaten their fellow servants. [Matthew 24:48, 49.] They do this for the same reason that Cain killed Abel. Abel was determined to worship God according to the direction God had given. This displeased Cain. He thought that his own plans were best, and that the Lord would come to his terms.
Cain in his offering did not acknowledge his dependence upon Christ. He thought that his father Adam had been treated harshly in being expelled from Eden. The idea of keeping that sin ever before the mind, and offering the blood of the slain lamb as a confession of entire dependence upon a Power outside of himself, was torture to the high spirit of Cain. Being the eldest, he thought that Abel should follow his example. When Abel’s offering was accepted of God, the holy fire consuming the sacrifice, Cain’s anger was exceedingly great. The Lord condescended to explain matters to him, but he would not be reconciled to God, and he hated Abel because God showed him favor. He became so angry that he slew his brother.
The Lord has a controversy with all who by their unbelief and doubt have been saying that He delayeth His coming, and who have been smiting their fellow servants, and eating and drinking with (working from the very same principle as) the drunken. They are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink. Satan has controlled their reason, and they know not at what they stumble.
Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellow men. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of the workers to one another, but in the desire shown by one institution to control all others. Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to the Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37. Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside and ventured on in the same course.
Read the words of Christ in (Matthew 23:23): “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.” These denunciations are given as a warning to all who “outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within … are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.” [Verse 28.] They say, We are delivered to do all these things. They say also, “If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.
“Wherefore,” said Jesus, “ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets.” [Verses 30, 31.] What lessons are here; how fearful and decisive! Jesus said, “Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city.” [Verse 34.] This prophecy was literally fulfilled by the Jews in their treatment of Christ and of the messengers whom God sent them. Will men in these last days follow the example of those whom Christ condemned?
These terrible predictions they have not as yet carried out to the full; but if God spares their lives, and they nourish the same spirit that marked their course of action both before and after the Minneapolis meeting, they will fill up to the full the deeds of those whom Christ condemned when He was upon the earth.
The perils of the last days are upon us. Read Matthew 25:14. Satan takes the control of every mind that is not decidedly under the control of the Spirit of God. Some have been cultivating hatred against the men whom God has commissioned to bear a special message to the world. They began this satanic work at Minneapolis. Afterward, when they saw and felt the demonstration of the Holy Spirit testifying that the message was of God, they hated it the more, because it was a testimony against them. They would not humble their hearts to repent, to give God the glory, and vindicate the right.
They went on in their own spirit, filled with envy, jealousy, and evil surmisings, as did the Jews. They opened their hearts to the enemy of God and man. Yet these men have been holding positions of trust, and have been molding the work after their own similitude, as far as they possibly could. Captain Eldridge and Frank Belden acted a prominent part, but it was a mercy to them they disconnected themselves from the office. Since their separation the work has been going on after the same order. It is time that there was a change.
Those who are now first, who have been untrue to the cause of God, will soon be last, unless they repent. Unless they speedily fall upon the Rock and be broken, and be born again, the spirit that has been cherished will continue to be cherished. Mercy’s sweet voice will not be recognized by them. Bible religion, in private and in public, is with them a thing of the past. They have been zealously declaiming against enthusiasm and fanaticism. Faith that calls upon God to relieve human suffering, faith that God has enjoined upon His people to exercise, is called fanaticism. But if there is anything upon the earth that should inspire men with sanctified zeal, it is the truth as it is in Jesus; it is the grand, great work of redemption. It is Christ, made unto us wisdom and righteousness, and sanctification and redemption.
The Lord has often made manifest in His providence that nothing less than revealed truth, the Word of God, can reclaim man from sin or keep him from transgression. That Word, which reveals the guilt of sin, has a power upon the human heart to make man right and keep him so. The Lord has said that His Word is to be studied and obeyed; it is to be brought into the practical life. That Word is as inflexible as the character of God—the same yesterday, today, and forever.
If there is anything in our world that should inspire enthusiasm, it is the cross of Calvary. “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not because it knew Him not.” [1 John 3:1.] “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Christ is to be accepted, believed in, and exalted. This is to be the theme of conversation—the preciousness of Christ.
There is in Battle Creek a class that have the truth planted in the heart. It is to them the power of God unto salvation. But unless the truth is enthroned in the heart, and a thorough transition takes place from darkness to light, those who handle sacred responsibilities are ministers of darkness, blind leaders of the blind. “Clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots.” [Jude 12.] God requires that every soul that names His name shall have the truth enthroned in the heart. The time in which we live demands it. Eternity demands it. Pure religion demands it.
Worldly Amusements
While there has been so much fear of excitement and enthusiasm in the service of God, there has been manifest an enthusiasm in another line which to many seems wholly congenial. I refer to the parties of pleasure that have been held among our people. These occasions have taken much of the time and attention of people who profess to be servants of Christ; but have these assemblies tended to the glory of his name? Was Jesus invited to preside over them? Gatherings for social intercourse may be made in the highest degree profitable and instructive when those who meet together have the love of God glowing in their hearts; when they meet to exchange thoughts in regard to the Word of God, or to consider methods for advancing His work and doing good to their fellow men.
When nothing is said or done to grieve the Holy Spirit of God, but it is regarded as a welcome guest, then God is honored, and those who meet together will be refreshed and strengthened. “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another; and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name. And they shall be Mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels.” [Malachi 3:16, 17.]
But there has been a class of social gatherings in Battle Creek of an entirely different character, parties of pleasure that have been a disgrace to our institutions and to the church. They encourage pride of dress, pride of appearance, self-gratification, hilarity, and trifling. Satan is entertained as an honored guest, and he takes possession of those who patronize these gatherings.
A view of one such company was presented to me, where were assembled those who profess to believe the truth. One was seated at the instrument of music, and such songs were poured forth as made the watching angels weep. There was mirth, there was coarse laughter, there was abundance of enthusiasm, and a kind of inspiration; but the joy was such as Satan only is able to create. This is an enthusiasm and infatuation of which all who love God will be ashamed. It prepares the participants for unholy thought and action. I have reason to think that some who were engaged in that scene heartily repented of the shameful performance.
Many such gatherings have been presented to me. I have seen the gaiety, the display in dress, the personal adornment. All want to be thought brilliant, and give themselves up to hilarity, foolish jesting, cheap, coarse flattery, and uproarious laughter. The eyes sparkle, the cheek is flushed, conscience sleeps. With eating and drinking and merry-making, the impression is they do their best to forget God. The scene of pleasure is their paradise. And heaven is looking on, seeing and hearing all.
Turn to another scene. In the streets of the city is a party gathered for a bicycle race. In this company also are those who profess to know God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. But who that looks upon the exciting race would think that those who were thus exhibiting themselves were the followers of Christ? Who would think they realized the value of their time and their physical powers as gifts from God, to be preserved for His service? Who thinks of the danger of accident, or that death may be the result of their wild chase? Who have prayed for the presence of Jesus, and the protection of the ministering angels? Is God glorified by these performances? Behold Satan is playing the game of life for these souls, and he is well pleased with that which he sees and hears.
The once earnest Christian who enters into these sports is on the downgrade. He has left the region pervaded by the vital atmosphere of heaven, and has plunged into an atmosphere of mist and fog. It may be that some humble believer is induced to join in these sports. But if he maintains his connection with Christ, he cannot in heart participate in the exciting scene. The words he hears are not congenial; for they are not the language of Canaan. The speakers do not give evidence that they are making melody in their hearts to God. But there is unmistakable evidence that God is forgotten. He is not in all their thoughts. These parties of pleasure and gatherings for exciting sport, made up of those who profess to be Christians, are a profanation of religion and the name of God.
The tenor of the conversation reveals the treasure of the heart. The cheap, common talk, the words of flattery, the foolish witticism, spoken to create a laugh, are the merchandise of Satan, and all who indulge in this talk are trading in his goods. Impressions are made upon those who hear these things similar to that made upon Herod when the daughter of Herodias danced before him. All these transactions are recorded in the books of heaven, and at the last great day they will appear in their true light before the guilty ones. Then all will discern in them the alluring, deceptive workings of the devil, to lead them into the broad road and the wide gate that opens to their ruin.
Satan has been multiplying his snares in Battle Creek, and professed Christians who are superficial in character and religious experience are used by the tempter as his decoys. This class are always ready for the gathering for pleasure or sport, and their influence attracts others.
Young men and young women who have tried to be Bible Christians are persuaded to join the party, and they are drawn into the ring. They did not prayerfully consult the divine standard, to learn what Christ has said in regard to the fruit to be borne on the Christian tree. They do not discern that these entertainments are really Satan’s banquet, prepared to keep souls from accepting the call to the marriage supper of the Lamb, and [to] prevent them from receiving the white robe of character, which is the righteousness of Christ. They become confused as to what it is right for them as Christians to do. They do not want to be thought singular, and naturally incline to follow the example of others. Thus they come under the influence of those who have never had the divine touch on heart or mind.
In these exciting gatherings, carried away by the glamor and passion of human influence, some youth even that have been carefully instructed to obey the law of God are led to form attachments for those whose education has been a mistake, and whose religious experience has been a fraud. They sell themselves to a lifelong bondage. As long as they live, they must be hampered by their union with a cheap, superficial character, one who lives for display, but who have not the precious inward adorning, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which in the sight of God is of great price. When sickness and death shall come to those who have lived to please themselves merely, they find that they have provided no oil in their vessels with their lamps, and they are utterly unfitted to close their life’s history. This has been; this will continue to be.
We ask of those who have had great light in Battle Creek, Has the truth of God lost its hold upon the soul? Has the fine gold become dim? What has been the cause of this fanaticism and enthusiasm? A fearful accountability rests upon world-loving, selfish parents, for sin lies at their door. How much more favorable it would be if the school buildings that are now in Battle Creek were far off from the city, and separated from so large a colony of professed Sabbathkeepers.
The conviction is gaining ground in the world that Seventh-day Adventists are giving the trumpet an uncertain sound, that they are following in the path of worldlings. Families in Battle Creek are departing from God in planning contracts of marriage with those who have no love for God, with those who have lived a frivolous life, who have never practiced self-denial, and know not from experience what it means to be laborers together with God. Strange things are being transacted. False phases of Christianity are being received and taught, which bind souls in deception and delusion. Men are walking in the light of the sparks of their own kindling. Those who love and fear God will not descend to the world’s level in choosing the society of the vain and trifling. They will not become charmed with men or women who are not converted. They are to stand up for Jesus, and then Jesus will stand up for them.
Some of those who know the truth but do not practice it are trampling upon the law of God in their business transactions. We should have no intimate association with them, lest we catch their spirit and share their doom. The patriarch Jacob, when speaking of certain deeds of his sons, which he contemplated with horror, exclaimed, “O my soul, come not thou into their secrets; unto their assembly, mine honor, be not thou united.” [Genesis 49:6.] He felt that his own honor would be compromised if he associated with sinners in their doings. He lifts the danger signal, to warn us away from such associations, lest we become partakers of their evil deeds. The Holy Spirit, through the apostle Paul, utters a similar warning, “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” [Ephesians 5:11.]
The eternal God has drawn the line of distinction between the saints and the sinners, the converted and the unconverted. The two classes do not blend into each other imperceptibly, like the colors of the rainbow. They are as distinct as midday and midnight.
Those who are seeking the righteousness of Christ will be dwelling upon the themes of the great salvation. The Bible is the storehouse that supplies their souls with nourishing food. They meditate upon the incarnation of Christ, they contemplate the great sacrifice made to save them from perdition, to bring in pardon, peace, and everlasting righteousness. The soul is aglow with these grand and elevating themes. Holiness and truth, grace and righteousness, occupy the thoughts. Self dies, and Christ lives in His servants. In contemplation of the Word, their hearts burn within them, as did the hearts of the two disciples while they went to Emmaus, and Christ walked with them by the way, and opened to them the Scriptures concerning Himself.
How few realize that Jesus, unseen, is walking by their side. How ashamed many would be to hear His voice speaking to them, and to know that He heard all their foolish, common talk! And how many hearts would burn with holy joy if they only knew that the Saviour was by their side calling them to be reconverted, that the holy atmosphere of His presence was surrounding them, and they were feeding on the Bread of life! How pleased the Saviour would be to hear his followers talking of his precious lessons of instruction, and to know that they had a relish for holy things! When the truth abides in the heart, there is no place for criticism of God’s servants or for picking flaws with the message He sends. That which is in the heart will flow from the lips. It cannot be repressed. The things that God has prepared for those that love Him will be the theme of conversation. The love of Christ is in the soul as a well of water, springing up into everlasting life, sending forth living streams that bring life and gladness wherever they flow.
Rejecting the Light
God says to His servants, “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [Isaiah 58:1.] But when the plain, straight testimony comes from lips under the moving of the Spirit of God, there are many who treat it with disdain. There are among us those who, in actions if not in words, “say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits:
“Get you out of the way, turn aside out of the path, cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us. Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despised this word, and trust in oppression and perverseness, and stay thereon; therefore this iniquity will be to you as a breach ready to fall, swelling out in a high wall, whose breaking cometh suddenly, at an instant. … For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in confidence and in quietness shall be your strength: and ye would not.” [Isaiah 30:10-13, 15.]
I inquire of those in responsible positions in Battle Creek, What are you doing? You have turned your back, and not your face, to the Lord. There needs to be a cleansing of the heart, the feelings, the sympathies, the words, in reference to the most momentous subjects—the Lord God, eternity, truth. What is the message to be given at this time? It is the third angel’s message. But that light which is to fill the whole earth with its glory has been despised by some who claim to believe the present truth. Be careful how you tread. Take off the shoes from off your feet, for you are on holy ground. Beware how you indulge the attributes of Satan and pour contempt upon the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. I know not but some have even now gone too far to return and to repent.
I state truth. The souls who love God, who believe in Christ, and who eagerly grasp every ray of light, will see light, and rejoice in the truth. They will communicate the light. They will grow in holiness. Those who receive the Holy Spirit will feel the chilling atmosphere that surrounds the souls of others, by whom these great and solemn realities are unappreciated, and spoken against. They feel that they are in the council of the ungodly, of men who stand in the way of sinners, and sit in the seat of the scornful.
The Word of God speaketh truth, not a lie. In it is nothing strained, nothing extreme, nothing overdone. We are to accept it as the Word of the living God. In obedience to that Word, the church have duties to perform which it has not done. They are not to flee from the post of duty, but in trial and temptation they should lean more heavily upon God. There are difficulties to be met, but God’s people as one must rise to the emergencies. There are duties to be discharged to the church and to our God.
The Spirit of God is departing from many among our people. Many have entered into dark, secret paths, and some will never return. They will continue to stumble to their ruin. They have tempted God, they have rejected light. All the evidence that will ever be given them they have received, and have not heeded. They have chosen darkness rather than light, and have defiled their souls. No man or church can associate with a pleasure-loving class, and reveal that they appreciate the rich current of truth which the Lord has sent to those who have simple faith in His Word.
The world is polluted, corrupted, as was the world in the days of Noah. The only remedy is belief in the truth, acceptance of the light. Yet many have listened to the truth spoken in demonstration of the Spirit, and they have not only refused to accept the message, but they have hated the light. These men are parties to the ruin of souls. They have interposed themselves between the heaven-sent light and the people. They have trampled upon the Word of God, and are doing despite to His Holy Spirit.
I call upon God’s people to open their eyes. When you sanction or carry out the decisions of men who, as you know, are not in harmony with truth and righteousness, you weaken your own faith and lose your relish for communion with God. You seem to hear the voice which was addressed to Joshua: “Wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them. … There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel.” “Neither will I be with you any more, unless ye destroy the accursed from among you.” [Joshua 7:10-13.] Christ declares, “He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.]
The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His people through Elders Waggoner and Jones. This message was to bring more prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. It presented justification through faith in the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness of Christ, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God. Many had lost sight of Jesus. They needed to have their eyes directed to His divine person, His merits, and His changeless love for the human family. All power is given into His hands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of His own righteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world. It is the third angel’s message, which is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure.
The uplifted Saviour is to appear in His efficacious work as the Lamb slain, sitting upon the throne to dispense the priceless covenant blessings, the benefits He died to purchase for every soul who should believe on Him. John could not express that love in words; it was too deep, too broad; he calls upon the human family to behold it. Christ is pleading for the church in the heavenly courts above, pleading for those for whom He paid the redemption price of His own life blood. Centuries, ages, can never diminish the efficacy of this atoning sacrifice. This message of the gospel of His grace was to be given to the church in clear and distinct lines, that the world should no longer say, Seventh-day Adventists talk the law, the law, but do not preach or believe Christ.
The efficacy of the blood of Christ was to be presented to the people with freshness and power, that their faith might lay hold on its merits. As the high priest sprinkled the warm blood upon the mercy seat while the fragrant cloud of incense ascended before God, so while we confess our sins, and plead the efficacy of Christ’s atoning blood, our prayers are to ascend to heaven fragrant with the merits of Christ’s character. Notwithstanding our unworthiness, we are ever to bear in mind that there is One that can take away sin, and save the sinner. Every sin acknowledged before God with a contrite heart, He will remove. This faith is the life of the church. As the serpent was lifted up in the wilderness by Moses, and all that had been bitten by the fiery serpents were bidden to look and live, so also the Son of man must be lifted up, that “whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
Unless he makes it his life business to behold the uplifted Saviour, and by faith accept the merits which it is his privilege to claim, the sinner can no more be saved than Peter could walk upon the water unless he kept his eyes fixed steadily upon Jesus. Now, it has been Satan’s determined purpose to eclipse the view of Jesus and lead man to look to man, and trust to man, and be educated to expect help from man. For years the church has been looking at man and expecting much from man, but not looking to Jesus, in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. Therefore God gave to His servants a testimony that presented the truth as it is in Jesus, which is the third angel’s message in clear, distinct lines.
John’s words are [to be] sounded by God’s people, that all may discern the light and walk in the light. “He that cometh from above is above all; he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth; He that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. For He whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hands. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son, shall not see life: but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [Verses 31-36.]
This is the testimony that must go throughout the length and breadth of the world. It presents the law and the gospel, binding up the two in a perfect whole. (See Romans 5, and 1 John 3:9) to the close of the chapter. These precious scriptures will be impressed upon every heart that is opened to receive them. “The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding to the simple”—those who are contrite in heart. [Psalm 119:130.] “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] These have not a mere nominal faith, a theory of truth, a legal religion, but they believe to a purpose, appropriating to themselves the richest gifts of God. They plead for the gift, that they may give to others. They can say, “Of His fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [Verse 16.]
“He that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in Him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit.” [1 John 4:8-13.]
This is the very work which the Lord designs that the message He has given His servants shall perform in the heart and mind of every human agent. It is the perpetual life of the church to love God supremely, and to love others as they love themselves. There was but little love for God or man, and God gave to His messengers just what the people needed. Those who received the message were greatly blessed, for they saw the bright rays of the Sun of Righteousness, and life and hope sprang up in their hearts. They were beholding Christ. “Fear not,” is His everlasting assurance; “I am he that liveth and was dead, and behold, I am alive for evermore.” [Revelation 1:18.] “Because I live, ye shall live also.” [John 14:19.] The blood of the spotless Lamb of God the believers apply to their own hearts.
Looking upon the great antitype, we can say, “It is Christ that died; yea rather, that is risen again; who is even at the right hand of God; who also maketh intercession for us.” [Romans 8:34.] The Sun of Righteousness shines into our hearts to give the knowledge of the glory of Jesus Christ. Of the Holy Spirit’s office He says, “He shall glorify Me; for He shall receive of Mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 16:14.] The Psalmist prays, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. … Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence, and take not Thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation; and uphold me by Thy free Spirit. Then will I teach transgressors Thy way, and sinners will be converted unto Thee.” [Psalm 51:7, 10-13.]
The Lord would have these grand themes studied in our churches; and if every church member shall give entrance to the Word of God, it will give light and understanding to the simple. “Who is among you that feareth God, that obeyeth the voice of His servant, that walketh in darkness and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks which ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand: ye shall lie down in sorrow.” [Isaiah 50:10, 11.] See Isaiah 29:13-16, 18-21. “Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches; but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord, which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth; for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.” [Jeremiah 9:23, 24.]
Never was there a time when the Lord would manifest His great grace unto His chosen ones more fully than in these last days when His law is made void. “The Lord is well pleased for His righteousness sake; He will magnify the law, and make it honorable.” What does God say in regard to His people? “But this is a people robbed and spoiled; they are all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses; they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, Restore.” [Isaiah 42:21, 22.] See also Isaiah 43. These are prophecies that will be fulfilled.
I would speak in warning to those who have stood for years resisting light and cherishing the spirit of opposition. How long will you hate and despise the messengers of God’s righteousness? God has given them His message. They bear the Word of the Lord. There is salvation for you, but only through the merits of Jesus Christ. The grace of the Holy Spirit has been offered you again and again. Light and power from on high has been shed abundantly in the midst of you. Here was evidence, that all might discern whom the Lord recognized as His servants. But there are those who despised the men and the message they bore. They have taunted them with being fanatics, extremists, and enthusiasts.
Let me prophesy unto you: Unless you speedily humble your hearts before God, and confess your sins, which are many, you will, when it is too late, see that you have been fighting against God. Through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, no longer unto reformation and pardon, you will see that you have been fighting against God. Through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, no longer unto reformation and pardon, you will see that these men whom you have spoken against have been as signs in the world, as witnesses for God. Then you would give the whole world if you could redeem the past, and be just, zealous men, moved by the Spirit of God to lift your voice in solemn warning to the world; and like them, to be in principle firm as a rock. Your turning things upside down is known of the Lord. Go on a little longer as you have gone in rejection of the light from heaven, and you are lost. “The man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation.” [Numbers 19:20.]
I have no smooth message to bear to those who have been for so long as false guideposts, pointing the wrong way. If you reject Christ’s delegated messengers, you reject Christ. Neglect this great salvation, kept before you for years, despise this glorious offer of justification through the blood of Christ, and sanctification through the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit, and there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation. I entreat you now to humble yourselves, and cease your stubborn resistance of light and evidence. Say unto the Lord, “Mine iniquities have separated between me and my God. O Lord, pardon my transgressions. Blot out my sins from the book of Thy remembrance.” Praise His holy name, there is forgiveness with Him, and you can be converted, transformed.
“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh, 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 9:13, 14.]
Lt 58, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Glenorchy, Tasmania
May 7, 1895
Dear Brother:
Sister May Lacey and myself left Granville, March 14th [April 11?], going by train to Melbourne on our way to Tasmania. It was necessary that I should be in Melbourne over the Sabbath. I had freedom in speaking to the people assembled on the Sabbath, and was urgently requested to again address them in the missionary meeting on Sunday afternoon. The hall was well filled on these occasions, and the Lord blessed me in speaking to the people. An appointment was made that I should again speak to the people on Tuesday evening and present important matters before them.
We expected to leave for Tasmania on Thursday evening, but learned that the steamer was not going out until Friday afternoon, and would bring us into Launceston after the Sabbath had begun. I could not consent to go on this steamer when we should thus have to trespass on the Sabbath if there was any way possible by which we could avoid it. We learned that a boat left Melbourne Tuesday afternoon, and we decided that it would be much better to go on this early boat than to travel on the Sabbath. From the light which the Lord has given us in regard to the manner in which the Sabbath should be observed, I fear that we are becoming careless, and often travel on the Sabbath when we might avoid it. We should be more careful about traveling on the boats or in cars on the Sabbath day. Even if it involves some difficulty, we should make every possible effort so to arrange about our traveling, that we need not arrive at our destination on the Sabbath.
Many are becoming careless and irreverent concerning the Sabbath; but if we would have the blessing pronounced that is to be pronounced upon the obedient, it will be necessary that we observe the Sabbath more strictly. Even in traveling upon the cars and steamers, we are to set the right example before our children and youth. It may be necessary for us to travel on the Sabbath in order to reach the churches who need our help, and to give to them the message that God would have them hear, but we should secure our tickets, and make all other arrangements on some other day if it is unavoidable and we must travel upon the cars or steamboats.
When traveling on the cars or boats on the Sabbath day, we should withdraw ourselves from undesirable company, and commune with God. But if through the providence of God we have an opportunity to speak a word in regard to the truth to those who are in our company, we should improve the opportunity. If any one is suffering, and we can relieve their pain, we should put into exercise the wisdom and knowledge God has given us in doing it. But we need not engage in conversation concerning business matters. We need to be always learning in the school of Christ in order that we may be teachers. Every day our obligation is proportional to our ability. God requires heart service. He requires that we should be consecrated to Him at all times and in all places.
We had a pleasant passage on the steamer, and were not at all sick. On Wednesday morning we drew near Launceston, but on account of the low tide we were obliged to anchor out ten miles from the city. While thus anchored a small ferry boat drew up alongside. We were pleased to see on board the ferry Brother and Sister Teasdale. They had been holding some meetings twenty miles from Launceston, and we met them providentially as we lay anchored. We had our baggage placed on the ferry, and boarded it ourselves, and arrived in Launceston about noon. We took a cab to Sister Rogers’ house, and there visited with Brother and Sister Teasdale and Sister Baker for about two hours. Brother Baker is visiting and laboring about seventy-five miles from Launceston, but his wife and Brother and Sister Teasdale live with Sister Rogers in her rented house.
About three o’clock we took the cars for Hobart. We had a first class compartment to ourselves most of the way, and at about nine o’clock in the evening we arrived at Hobart, and were heartily greeted by Brother Lacey and several members of his family. We were conducted to the hospitable home of Brother and Sister Lacey. On the Sabbath we went to a small church in which were assembled a much larger number of Sabbathkeepers than I supposed would be found there. The Lord gave me freedom as I spoke to the people.
On Sunday night I spoke in a large Temperance Hall where quite a goodly number were assembled. They have made an arrangement that no meeting can begin in the Temperance Hall until half past eight o’clock. The Wesleyan Chapel is close by, and our meeting in the temperance hall did not begin until their meeting was closed. It was not a favorable time to hold the people, yet all listened with deep attention. I spoke under the auspices of the Temperance Band of Hope Society. We were not charged anything for the hall. The first of the week W. C. White arrived, visited Bismark, which is about eight miles from Hobart, held a meeting, and made arrangements for holding other meetings during the week.
Brother and Sister Corliss went to Bismark one evening and held a meeting, and the next day returned with a conveyance in which we all took passage for Bismark. The whole party, excepting myself, walked up the high graded road over the mountains. We hired a small, furnished cottage in Bismark, and I spoke in the meetinghouse on Tuesday evening and Wednesday afternoon. The little church was filled with our brethren and sisters who seemed hungry to come in to receive the Bread of life. Brother Colcord spoke Wednesday evening. On Thursday we visited some of our brethren who live upon small farms among the hills or in the woods. Many of them cultivate fruit for a living. We saw that many of them had to travel several miles in order to attend the meetings and return again to their homes.
On Thursday evening I again spoke the message of truth to the people, especially dwelling upon the truth that is appropriate to these last days. Believers and unbelievers seemed greatly interested. There were those listening who were children of God, who were seeking to obey His commandments. They came from their humble homes, bringing their little children with them; but not one eyelid drooped in slumber. Every eye was directed toward the speaker, and they manifested wholehearted interest. I addressed words to the children and youth that were especially adapted to them, and I believe that many of the little ones understood the invitation of Jesus. I spoke to them from the words that Jesus addressed to His disciples when the mothers brought their little ones to Him, and when they rebuked them for troubling Christ with the children. Christ had said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] He took the little children in His arms and put His hands upon them and blessed them.
The Holy Spirit of God was in that little assembly. There were several outsiders in the meeting, among them the school teacher of the place, and a mother with a large family of boys. We hope that the seed sown may spring up and bear fruit to the glory of God. I presented the keeping of the commandments of God as an evidence of our love for Jesus Christ, for He plainly told His disciples that if they loved Him they would keep His commandments. John writes, “This is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his commandments are not grievous.” [1 John 5:3.]
I linked these sayings of Jesus with the testimony of John on the Isle of Patmos, who says that he is our “brother and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ,” and “was in the isle called Patmos for the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [Revelation 1:9.] John has voiced the words of Christ for our benefit. “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they which do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:12-14.] The people seem to have received a solemn impression. After the meeting closed, a woman came up to the stand, and with a Bible open in her hand began to declare that we were not under the law but under grace. “Yes,” I said, “if we keep the commandments of God we are not under the bondage of the law, but we are free.”
We received and read your letter with interest. I was relieved that you expressed yourself as you did in regard to the question of receiving gifts. Times are growing hard, and money is difficult to obtain, but God will open the way for us from sources outside our own people. I cannot see how any one can take exception to the receiving of gifts from those not of our faith.
They can only do so by taking extreme views and by creating issues which they are not authorized to do. This is God’s world, and if God shall move upon human agents so that the land which has been in the hands of the enemy may be brought into our hands, so that the message may be proclaimed in regions beyond, shall men block up the way with their narrow notions? Such conscientiousness as this is anything but healthful. The Holy Spirit does not lead men to pursue such a course.
Let all be careful how they interpose themselves between God, the great Master Worker, and His people. We should see and acknowledge the workings of His providence, and bow to His authority. Let every messenger of God attend to his own specific work, and not rush into a work that is simply after his own wisdom and devising. Let the Lord’s messengers seek unto the mercy seat, that they may receive wisdom and grace to know God, to understand His workings. Knowledge of God will give them well-balanced minds and sound judgment, and they will not move impulsively at this critical, important time of earth’s history.
It is not the will of God that any of His servants should move hastily and take shortsighted views. He would have them wait patiently and manifest due consideration. Every movement should be made with judicious thoughtfulness, and after much prayer. Then our brethren will have a more even, tranquil experience, and will be able to be a greater benefit to the people, for the glory of the Lord will be their rereward.
Our only safety will be found in constantly seeking wisdom from God, in carefully weighing every matter with much fear and trembling, lest there shall be brought into the work not the light of heaven, but the weakness of man. But the Lord has promised to give light to those who seek Him with a whole heart. If we will wait patiently and prayerfully upon God, and not follow our own impetuous plans, He will guide our decisions and open many doors of hope and labor.
The great General of armies will lead in every battle for the advancement of His cause. He will be the guide of His people in the perilous conflicts in which they have to engage, if the under leaders and undershepherds will do their appointed work and listen to the voice that says, “This is the way, walk ye in it;” “they that follow me shall not walk in darkness.” [Isaiah 30:21; John 8:12.] What a great comfort this promise should be to us! We may walk in the light as He is in the light. Let the men to whom God has entrusted great responsibilities be perfectly sure that they are following their great Leader, even Christ, and are not moving under the impulse of their own natural tempers.
We shall be safe only as we consecrate ourselves to God and look unto Jesus, earnestly longing to work out His plan. Men may follow many kinds of lights, but there is only one Light that will be safe for them to follow. Be sure that you are following Jesus whithersoever He goeth. Let none run ahead of Christ, but wait for the word of command, “Follow Me.” Let our leaders be distrustful of their own counsel, of their own ambitious fancies. Let them not suppose that the sparks of their own kindling are the true light, or after a while they will find that, instead of following the heavenly guiding Star, they are following an uncertain leader.
I am grieved as I see men seeking to mark out the precise course that missionaries in far off lands shall pursue. We must give matters more into the hands of Him whom we profess to follow, that He may work through His appointed agents as He shall see fit. We should not think that everything must be brought under the jurisdiction of a few finite men, who need to look constantly to God for wisdom or else they will make grave blunders. The Lord does not design to have everything center in Battle Creek. He would have men stand aside, and not feel that His work depends wholly upon them, and that every question must be referred to their judgment. It is difficult for me to express what I desire to, but in the name of the Lord I lift the danger signal. Responsible men need to fear and tremble for themselves. They should not feel competent to run ahead of Him who has said, “Follow Me.”
God is not pleased that men in distant lands should have to wait for orders from Battle Creek before they can venture to make a move. We should believe in the power of the Lord to guide, for He has the ordering of His own work. He will give wisdom and understanding to His representative men in every part of His great moral vineyard. He says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.] To my brethren in Battle Creek I would say, The Lord does not need to send His orders to His messengers in all parts of the world through Battle Creek. He does not lay this responsibility upon all those who assume to say to His workers, “Do this,” and “thou shalt not do that.” God is dishonored when men are led to look to Battle Creek to so large a degree.
The people of every country have their own peculiar, distinctive characteristics, and it is necessary that men should be wise in order that they may know how to adapt themselves to the peculiar ideas of the people, and so introduce the truth that they may do them good. They must be able to understand and meet their wants. Circumstances will arise that demand immediate action, and it will be necessary that those who are right on the field should take hold of the interest, and do the thing that is necessary to be done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Should they wait in a time of crisis for direction to come from Battle Creek as to what they should do, they might lose much. The men who are handling the work should be faithful stewards of the grace of God. They should be men of faith, and they should be encouraged to look to God, and to trust in Him.
Let God’s workmen study the sixth chapter of Isaiah and the first and second chapters of Ezekiel. To the prophet the wheel within a wheel, the appearances of living creatures connected with them, all seemed intricate and unexplainable. But the hand of infinite wisdom is seen among the wheels, and perfect order is the result of its work. Every wheel works in perfect harmony with every other.
I have been shown that human instrumentalities seek after too much power and try to control the work themselves. They leave the Lord God, the Mighty Worker, too much out of their methods and plans, and do not trust everything to Him in regard to the advancement of the work. No man should fancy that he is able to manage those things which belong to the great I AM. God in His providence is preparing a way so that the work may be done by human agents. Then let every man stand to his post of duty, to act his part for this time, and know that God is his instructor.
In the taking of Jericho the Lord God of Hosts was the general of the army. He made the plan for the battle and united heavenly and human agencies to act a part in the work, but no human hand touched the walls of Jericho. God so arranged the plan that man could take no credit to himself for achieving the victory. God alone is to be glorified. So it shall be with the work in which we are engaged. The glory is not to be given to human agencies; the Lord alone is to be magnified. Please read carefully the third chapter of Ezekiel. We must learn to put our entire dependence upon God, and yet we must ever bear in mind that the Lord God has need of every agency that holds the truth in righteousness. As workers for Christ we are to stand in view of the cross of Calvary, proclaiming to the world, “Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] We are to proclaim the third angel’s message with our human voices, and it is to go to the world with power and glory.
When men cease to depend upon men, when they make God their efficiency, then there will be more confidence manifested one in another. Our faith in God is altogether too feeble, and our confidence one in another altogether too meager.
Christ breathed upon His disciples, and said, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” [John 20:22.] Christ is represented by His Holy Spirit today in every part of His great moral vineyard. He will give the inspiration of His Holy Spirit to all those who are of a contrite spirit.
Let there be more dependence upon the efficiency of the Holy Spirit, and far less dependence upon human agencies. I am sorry to say that at least some have not given evidence that they have learned the lesson of meekness and lowliness in the school of Christ. They do not abide in Christ; they have no vital connection with Him. They are not directed by the wisdom of Christ through the impartation of His Holy Spirit. Then I ask you, “How can we regard these men as faultless in judgment?” They may be in responsible positions, but they are living separated from Christ. They have not the mind of Christ and do not learn daily of Him. Yet in some cases their judgment is trusted, and their counsel is regarded as the wisdom of God.
When human agents choose the will of God and are conformed to the character of Christ, Jesus acts through their organs and faculties. They put aside all selfish pride, all manifestation of superiority, all arbitrary exactions, and manifest the meekness and lowliness of Christ. It is no more themselves that live and act, but it is Christ who lives and acts through them. They understand the precious words of the Saviour’s prayer, “I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:23.]
God would have every individual look less to the finite, depend less upon men. We have counselors who make manifest that they have not a knowledge of the grace of Christ and do not understand the truth as it is in Christ.
Those who are co-operating with God have humble opinions of themselves. They are not boastful, self-sufficient, and self-exalted. They are long-suffering, kind, full of mercy and good fruits. Human ambition takes the background with them. The righteousness of Christ goes before them, and the glory of the Lord is their rereward.
In counselling for the advancement of the work, no one individual is to be in controlling power, a voice for the whole, unless it is evident to all that the counsel given is the right one. All methods and plans are to be carefully considered so that all may become intelligent in regard to their relative merits and decide which one will be best to be followed in the missionary work that is to be done in the fields that open before us. It will be well not only to consider the fields that duty seems to call us to, but the difficulties that will be encountered. Committees of councils, as far as possible, should let the people understand their plans, that the judgment of the church may sustain their efforts. Many of the church members are prudent and have many other excellent qualities of mind. It is proper that their wisdom should be exercised, and that others may become aroused in reference to the great questions to be considered. Many may be awakened to the fact that they should have deeper insight into the work of God.
Some are convicted that they are far behind in their knowledge of the message, but God will help those who earnestly seek Him for wisdom. None ever seek His mercy seat in vain. We should earnestly seek wisdom from above, realizing that souls are perishing for the Word of life, and that the kingdom of Christ is to be extended. Men and women of noble minds will yet be added to the number of those of whom it is said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you … that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.]
From the beginning of our missionary work we have been much perplexed to know how we could secure funds adequate to the support of missionary enterprises in the fields which Providence has opened before us. Missionary work is be widely extended, and those who believe the truth should avoid using their means in purchasing that which is unnecessary. We are not to study our convenience, but rather our necessities. We shall have to bind about our wants in order that there shall be means in the treasury to raise the standard of truth in new territory.
Seek God; believe in Him who has infinite resources. If we move wisely, putting our ability into the work, the good hand of God will be upon us. We must push forward the work, not waiting to see the funds in the treasury before we undertake it. God forbid that when His providence summons us to enter the fields white already to harvest, our steps should be retarded by the cry, “Our treasury is exhausted. We have no means to sustain the workers that are already in the field, and it is impossible for us to enlarge our operations.”
We thank God that our Sabbath schools have contributed enough to advance many a precious enterprise. Children and youth have given their pennies that like little rivulets have supplied a stream of beneficence. Children should be educated in such a way that they may perform unselfish acts which heaven will rejoice to see. When the dew of youth is upon them, children should be trained how to do service for Christ. They should be taught self-denial.
The fields nigh and afar off belong to God, for the world is His. Usurpers have taken possession of God’s earthly property, but He will make a way so that the truth may be presented in the dark corners of the earth. If men will only follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit they will find ways and means by which the message may go forth and gain a glorious victory.
The servants of God who live in obedience to His requirements, who speak the truth in humility, will carry an influence with them which will work for the salvation of many souls. But we must not allow the people to hang helplessly upon us. We are human and finite. We must direct them to Christ, saying, “Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Jesus pleads the case of His co-laborers, but every hour they need to feel humble dependence upon the Captain of their salvation, and through the intercession of Christ our Advocate, many souls will be saved unto eternal life.
The Lord has provided for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon His workers, and everyone who sincerely seeks God will find Him. We are to come boldly to the throne of grace, and seek the footstool of mercy. We are to believe that the Lord hears and answers our prayer. Our great High Priest who has passed into the heavens says, “I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” [John 14:16.] The Holy Spirit abides with consecrated laborers who in any locality are seeking to advance the cause.
I beg of you for Christ’s sake, let there be no hasty, rash expressions fall from your lips, let no extravagant language be used, let nothing be uttered that will savor of railing, for all this is human. Christ has no part in it. Let the ready writers be careful how they use their pens lest they may seem to cast ridicule upon the positions of believers or of unbelievers. We shall find our only safety in preserving the lowly spirit of Christ, in making straight paths for our feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. The meekness and lowliness of Christ must take possession of the soul.
Satan is putting forth his power in presenting masterly delusions, so that he may bring to pass that which is not in accordance with God’s will. Let not those who believe the truth give occasion to our enemies to vindicate opposition, to give ground for the misrepresentations that men would use to oppose the advance of the truth. For the sake of Christ let every worker put forth efforts that will bring to naught Satan’s assertions, and not engage in anything that God has not required at his hands. Under heavenly generalship we may work in accordance with God’s will, and success will crown our efforts. But let no one get in the way of the work. Give God a chance to work, and leave men to do whatever He wishes them to [do to] advance His truth.
The question of religious liberty is very important, and it should be handled with great wisdom and discretion. Unless this is done there is danger that by our own course of action we shall bring upon ourselves a crisis before we are prepared for it. The burden of our message should be “the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] Our brethren should be cautioned not to make moves that will create and provoke the powers that be, so that they will make moves that will limit the work, and cut us off from proclaiming the message in different localities.
We need more of the working of the Infinite, and far less trust in human agencies. We are to prepare a people to stand in the day of God’s preparation. We are to call men’s attention to the cross of Calvary, to make clear the reason [why] Christ made His great sacrifice. We are to show men that it is possible for them to come back to their allegiance to God and to their obedience to His commandments. When the sinner looks upon Christ as the propitiation for his sins, let men step aside. Let them declare to the sinner that Christ “is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 2:2.] Encourage him to seek wisdom from God, for through earnest prayer he will learn the way of the Lord more perfectly than if instructed by some human counselor. He will see that it was the transgression of the law that caused the death of the Son of the infinite God, and he will hate the sins that wounded Jesus. As he looks upon Christ as a compassionate, tender High Priest, his heart will be preserved in contrition.
When he who is a co-laborer with Christ presses home the truth to the sinner’s heart in humility and love, the voice of God speaks through the human instrumentality. Heavenly intelligences work with a consecrated human agent, and the Spirit operates upon the soul of the unbeliever. Efficiency to believe comes from God to the heart, and the sinner accepts the evidence of God’s Word. Through the gracious influence of the Holy Spirit he is changed and becomes one with Christ in spirit and purpose. His affection for God increases, he hungers after righteousness and longs to be more like his Master. By beholding Christ, he is changed from glory to glory, from character to character, and becomes more and more like Jesus. He is imbued with love for Christ and filled with a deep, unresting love for perishing souls, and Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. “As many as receive him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]
Please read the second and third chapters of Philippians, and the first chapter of Colossians. There are lessons there that we all should study. Paul writes, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory: but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man, and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. … Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
“Do all things without murmurings and disputings, that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.” [Philippians 2:3-9, 12-16.] “I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil 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: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom: that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” [Colossians 1:25-28.]
Our workers should use the greatest wisdom so that nothing shall be said to provoke the armies of Satan and to stir up his united confederacy of evil. Christ did not venture to bring a railing accusation against the prince of evil, and is it proper that we should bring such accusation as will set in operation the agencies of evil, the confederacies of men that are leagued with evil spirits? Christ was the only begotten Son of the infinite God, He was the Commander in the heavenly courts, yet He refrained from bringing accusation against Satan. Speaking of Him, Isaiah says, “Unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulders; he shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6.]
Let those who speak and write concerning the third angel’s message consider the fact that the Prince of Peace did not bring a railing accusation against the enemy, and let them learn the lesson they ought to have learned much earlier in their experience. They should wear Christ’s yoke, they should practice the humility of Christ. The Great Teacher says, “Learn of me (I am not boastful, I hide my glory), for I am meek and lowly of heart.” In learning of Me, “ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Let such work be done by our missionaries as will lead to that repentance that needs not to be repented of. We need to learn much more of the meekness of Christ in order to be a savor of life unto life.
Let no one open the way for the enemy to do his work. Let no one help him to advance his oppressive powers, for we are not yet prepared to meet them. We need the softening, subduing, refining influence of the Holy Spirit, to mold our characters, and to bring every thought into captivity to Christ. It is the Holy Spirit that will enable us to overcome, that will lead us to sit at the feet of Jesus, as did Mary, and learn His meekness and lowliness of heart.
We need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit every hour of the day, lest we be ensnared by the enemy and our souls be imperilled. There is constant temptation to exalt self, and we must watch against this evil. We need to be on guard continually lest we shall manifest the spirit of overbearing, criticism, and condemnation. We should seek to avoid the very appearance of evil, and not reveal anything like the attributes of Satan that will dishearten and discourage those with whom we come in contact. We are to work as did Christ—to draw, to build up, not to tear down. It is natural for some to be sharp and dictatorial, to lord it over God’s heritage; and because of the manifestation of these attributes, precious souls have been lost to the cause. The reason that men have manifested these unpleasant characteristics is because they have not been connected with God.
Those who occupy important positions, who are brought in contact with souls for whom Christ has died, should place upon men the estimate God has placed upon them and regard them as precious. But many have treated the purchase of Christ’s blood in a harsh manner, in harmony with the disposition of men instead of according to the mind and spirit of Christ. Of His disciples Christ says, “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] We should ever keep in mind the relation which we bear one to another, and remember that we must meet those with whom we associate here around the judgment seat of Christ. God will be the Judge, and He will deal justly with every individual.
John says, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God, and the books were opened; and another book was opened which is the book of life, and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books according to their works.” [Revelation 20:12.] Let every one who professes the name of Christ consider the fact that he must meet every act of injustice, give an account for every harsh word, at the judgment seat of Christ. It will not be pleasant to review the words that have been spoken that have wounded and bruised souls, to review the decisions that have worked against souls for whom Christ died.
Every action will come into judgment, and the spirit that prompted it will be made manifest. The fruit of every selfish, arbitrary exaction will be made plain, and men will see the results of their doings even as God sees them. They will see that they have turned precious souls out of the right path by dealing with them in an un-Christlike manner. We are living in the great Day of Atonement, and it is now time that every one should repent before God, confess his sins, and by living faith rest upon the merit of a crucified and living Saviour.
My brethren and sisters, will you bear in mind that in dealing with God’s heritage you are not to act out your natural characteristics? The people of God are Christ’s purchased possession, and what a price He has paid for them! Shall any of us be found aiding the enemy of God and man in discouraging and destroying souls? What will be the retribution brought upon us if we do this class of work? Every one of us should weed out of our conversation everything that is harsh and severe. We should not indulge in condemning others, and we will not do so if we are one with Christ.
We are to represent Christ in our dealings with our fellow men. We are to be laborers together with God in helping those who are tempted. We are not to encourage souls to sow seeds of doubt, for they will bear a baleful harvest. We are to learn of Christ, to practice His methods, to reveal His spirit. We are enjoined, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 2:5.] We should educate ourselves to believe in the Word of God which is being so wonderfully and gloriously fulfilled. If we have the full assurance of faith, we will not indulge in doubting our brethren and sisters.
We are privileged to see Jesus as He is, to know Him as One who is full of compassion, courteousness, and divine politeness. He is good and merciful, and will forgive our sins. Of Him it is written, “Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered, being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:17, 18.]
We should cherish love and gratitude, we should look unto Jesus and become transformed into His image. The result of this will be increased confidence, hope, patience, and courage. We shall be drinking of the water of life of which Christ spoke to the woman of Samaria. He said, “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living waters … Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:10, 14.] This water represents the life of Christ, and every soul may have it by coming into living connection with God. Then blessed, humble, grateful confidence will be an abiding principle in the soul. Unbelieving fear will be swept away before living faith. We shall contemplate the character of Him who first loved us.
By contemplation of Christ’s matchless love, we take upon us His nature. He was a representative before men and before angels of the character of the God of heaven. He demonstrated the fact that when humanity depends wholly upon God, men may keep God’s commandments and live, and His law as the apple of the eye.
Those who inquire after the way of life need not be rich, need not be wise, learned or honored; yet God will quicken their perceptions so that they may understand what they must do to be saved. The light of heaven is shining upon the earth from the throne of God, and Christ says, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all unto me.” [John 12:32.] His gracious invitation is going forth to all mankind, and those who respond to it will find life and salvation. Peter writes, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:2-4.]
Lt 59, 1895
Olsen, Brother and Sister [O. A.]
Launceston, Tasmania
April [May] 12, 1895
Dear Brother and Sister Olsen:
W. C. White, May Lacey White, and myself left the home of Bro. Lacey in Glenorchy about nine o’clock p.m. to take the cars for Launceston. My son and Miss May Lacey were married today by a clergyman who, though not of our faith, has favored our people, letting them have the use of his church without charge. The preparations for the marriage ceremony were carried out without one unpleasant feature. We would all have been much better pleased if one of our own ministers could have officiated at the marriage, but this could not be without incurring considerable expense, as we should have had to send for one of our brethren to come from New South Wales, where I think some are qualified to perform marriages. There was no minister in Tasmania who was authorized to act in this capacity.
Brother and Sister Lacey have a large family, and they greatly desired that May should be married at home, and, of course, this is as it should be. At the request of the family, I offered prayer after the marriage ceremony was over. Brother and Sister Lacey invited eight persons besides the family to celebrate the occasion. We took the cars as I have stated, about nine o’clock that night, and in the morning arrived at Launceston, where Brethren Baker and Teasdale were waiting for us at the station. They had secured a room nearby for Mr. and Mrs. W. C. White. Brother and Sister Baker secured lodgings at a neighbor’s, in order that I might have accommodation at the house of Sister Rogers. Willie said that for the first time in his life he would be pleased if he could have a vacation of two weeks; but he did not even have one evening to enjoy the company of his companion.
The evening before his marriage, he was obliged to attend a meeting, and we saw nothing of him until Thursday morning. There was no time for a recess, much [less] for days of leisure and pleasure. Months before his marriage, he planned to have a boat ride on this occasion, but his plan was not carried out.
All day Wednesday we had been very busy. We visited the elder of the church at Hobart. At his home we spread our lunch on the table, and enjoyed our simple fare of bread and fruit. We had a precious season of prayer with the family, and I know that the blessing of the Lord rested upon us. We then visited at Brother Shannon’s house. He was not at home, but we had a little visit with his wife. The Malcolm family had moved to Hobart, and we called upon them. They were very glad to see us, and we had a profitable visit with them, engaging in a season of prayer that was much appreciated.
The next day was filled with preparing for the marriage and packing for our journey to Launceston. I was very glad when all the bustle was ended, and we were seated in the cars enroute for Launceston. On Sabbath I spoke to the little company in Launceston who have turned their feet into the royal path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. I had much freedom in speaking from the first chapter of Second Peter. As the result of the labors of Brethren Baker and Teasdale, seventeen are keeping the Sabbath in this place. These persons with their children numbered about forty. Brother Colcord, who left for Melbourne sooner than we did, spoke twice to this small company. Brother Corliss also spoke once or twice, then W. C. White and myself spoke on Sabbath and Sunday to those who attended the meeting. The people gave good testimonies. On Sunday we had a larger room, and a little larger audience. I had great freedom in speaking on the love of God for the human family, and apparently all listened with deep interest.
After the meeting closed, a tall well-dressed lady hastened to the stand, grasped my hand, and said, “I am so glad to see you. I wish to thank you for writing the book, Great Controversy. It was the means of saving the soul of my son. He was sick, and we knew he could not live. He asked me to give him a book that would be a help to him religiously. I had purchased The Great Controversy, but had not read it myself, and I brought him the book. My son read it through with the deepest interest, and said, ‘I have found in this book what I have not found in any other book in your library. Every time I read it, I see the truth in a more beautiful light. Every time I open it, I find something that helps me. I am not afraid to die now, for I have found rest and peace in Jesus Christ.’”
She told me that he had died in perfect peace. He was about thirty years of age at the time of his death, and he had requested that if ever she saw the author of the book, she should tell her how much good the work had been to him, making the path of salvation plain to his feet. She said, “I lend the book to one after another, and it is not at home hardly any of the time. Those who have read it say that they have never read a book that made the Bible so plain and clear to their understanding as this book.”
When I asked the lady her name, she spoke so indistinctly that I could not catch it. I thought that some of our brethren would be able to tell me who she was, but they had never seen her before. They think however that they can find out who she is. If they cannot find out, they will never know into what families The Great Controversy has gone, and what good it has done through her circulation of it.
The greatest trouble with the people in Tasmania is that they are more loyal to their ministers than they are to their God. They are a church-going people, and their ministers have warned them against listening to our ministers, and the result has been that only a few have come out to the tent meetings. The ministers declare that the presentation of any argument that is hard to meet is opposition to them. The work that has been done has sown good seed.
I believe that God has a people in this place, and that they must be warned. The first essential thing is to get the ears of the people; but if those who have ears will not hear, no one can compel them to listen. This is the great difficulty in this country. We cannot get the people to contemplate the cross of Calvary and the great plan of redemption. It is when men are willing to see wondrous things out of the law of God, that the soul is gained. We feel sorry that a protracted effort should bring forth such meager results; but we know that the few who have accepted the truth can teach others, and thus an army be raised up to rally round the standard. The Lord has a work for each and all to do, and not one is excused.
I read your letter in reference to my request not to receive wages for the past year. I have thought that I would give up writing for the papers entirely, and employ Fannie myself in getting out many things that need to be prepared. For a long time I have desired to have something prepared on the subject of Sanctification by Faith, for this subject has never appeared in the form that it should.
I also would like to get out another Testimony, also a book for Christian parents that would especially define the mother’s duties, and revise a book on Christian Temperance, which needs to be done. I would also like to have a book prepared for the youth as this has long been urged upon me.
I have considered the question, and have thought that I would refrain from sending articles to the Review and Herald, the Signs of the Times, and other periodicals for the space of one year. But the first thing that needs our attention is the work on The Life of Christ. But no one seemed in favor of my plan, and therefore I furnished articles just as abundantly as I have in the past. I have had no one who could report my sermons, and have written articles to be prepared for the papers.
What do you think of my plan of dispensing with articles for the papers, so that Fannie, Marian, and I may all turn our minds to the making of books? We could get up a number of small books as I have suggested, and then after the period of a year I could again take hold of the paper work. We could work in these lines of preparing books, and take no money from the conference. I started with a full determination to write this year on The Life of Christ, but such earnest calls have been made for my labor in other fields, that I dared not refuse them, and so have not done what I expected to do on the book.
I have written articles on different parts of the life and work of Christ, and after Fannie has prepared them, Marian has culled out of them matter that she could make use of in the book. But I have so many interruptions that I cannot write as I should. It is not much use for me to try to do this, and yet have the care of the churches, the responsibility of a household, and the work of a hotel-keeper, for comers and goers are continually creating an excitement at my home.
In my dreams I am writing books and calculating for their publication. The Life of Christ has dragged along a long time, because I have not had time to write on these things as I should. I am seeking counsel of God in order to know what to do.
I have never labored more earnestly for the churches than I have this past year, so I have no hesitancy in taking the same salary that I have in the past. In addition to all the labor that I have mentioned, I have also borne testimonies that have been very taxing to me, and have also had much work to do in feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and in paying laborers who are employed in the cause. At the present time I am paying $19 per week in sustaining laborers in Ashfield, Petersham, and Canterbury. In no period of my labors has there been so great a draft upon my financial and spiritual resources as at the present. How long my resources will admit of this constant strain I am unable to say; but I am looking to Him whose resources are unlimited to supply every lack.
The reason that I have to pay these laborers is that our Australian conferences are not able to pay laborers who ought to be in the field. Their funds are very low; but I could not consent to have the workers sent away to other fields at a time when it seemed that it was essential for them to work in the suburbs of Sydney. The opposition to our work is waxing stronger and stronger. Five ministers inspired with the power from beneath are rallying all their powers against us; but souls are continually embracing the truth. One baptism is speedily followed by another, and it does not seem the time to diminish our efforts.
The Plymouth Brethren are in a white heat of indignation, and will not consent to let our brethren in Ashfield meet much longer in the hall where they have been accustomed to meet. Therefore we must do all we can to erect a place of worship. We cannot hang down our heads and beat a retreat. We have no need to faint or to be discouraged. The converts at Ashfield have done their uttermost in purchasing a tent worth $175, and we now have two tents where meetings can be held. I gave 5 pounds toward the tent, and shall probably have to give 40 pounds toward the house of worship. The people’s enthusiasm is now kindled, and we must not let it die down.
After spending one week in Melbourne, we shall go on to Sydney. Elder Corliss and wife, W. C. White and wife, and myself will rally to the help of the brethren in the suburbs of Sydney. When some of the outposts about Sydney have had the message, we shall advance to Sydney, and put forth a protracted effort. We shall furnish two or three tents for different localities in the city, and will bring all the talent that we can command into the work. The Lord will give fitness for the work. We ourselves must drink of the water of life, if we would refresh souls who are thirsting for the water of salvation. You can see what is before us. I see no let up in this warfare for me. May the Lord God of Israel plan our battle for us, and qualify us to do a work which will bear the signature of heaven.
We are glad that we held the convention when we did in Hobart. W. C. White gave 1 pound and I gave 3 pounds in order that food might be provided for those who should attend the convention, and who would have to come from Bismark and other places. We did this in order to remove every obstacle and make it possible for the people to attend the convention. I would not have had the people deprived of the instruction that was given at that meeting if it had taken five times as many pounds as it did. The poor must have the gospel message preached to them. It is as necessary to them as to those who are in good circumstances.
The brethren are purchasing land somewhere in Melbourne upon which to build a church. Since the close of the camp meeting in Auckland a church has been erected in one of its suburbs for those who have lately accepted the truth. In all probability we shall have to have a place of worship erected in Hobart. It is very difficult to secure a place in which meetings can be held on Sunday and Sunday evenings. The church in which the brethren now meet on Sabbath was built by a dissenting minister of the Wesleyan order. He preaches independent of the conference, and is free to do as he pleases about letting us have his church. How long he will be generous enough to permit the Seventh-day Adventists to occupy his church is rather uncertain. You can see that a great work is to be done in every part of the colonies.
My heart burns with desire to engage more fully in the work, but I find I am not able to do so. For four months I have been unable to obtain sufficient sleep. Last Friday night I passed through the most severe suffering that I have had for years. For months it has been impossible for me to sleep after the hours of twelve, one, two, and three o’clock in the morning. I rise at these untimely hours, light my fire, and begin writing. I work the entire day, and often speak three times in the week.
Last Friday night I awakened in severe pain, and felt that I should suffocate for want of breath. I could obtain no relief. I thought I might die, my pulse was very feeble, missing every third beat. I dared not close my eyes in sleep. I made my prayer unto God that he might bring me relief. After midnight I went to sleep; but next morning my countenance revealed the suffering hours through which I had passed. I dared not sit up, but lay in bed most of the time until it was time to dress for meeting. An appointment had been given out that I should speak at three o’clock in the afternoon. If I had consulted my feelings I would not have tried to fulfill the appointment; but the Lord helped me as I exercised faith, and the fearful, sensations in my heart ceased.
Scarcely able to stand, I took the cab to the meeting, but when I rose in the desk all my fear and trembling left me. I had not the slightest trace of feebleness. I spoke on the special love of God to His people, taking for a text, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.” [1 John 3:1.] A goodly number were assembled, and I noted that men and women of intelligence were before me.
I spoke for over one hour, and felt that I could have spoken for still another hour without any inconvenience, but I thought it was best to close my discourse. All said that my voice was clear and strong, and that the words that I had spoken were the very words they needed to hear. I thanked the Lord with heart and soul and voice. Brethren Baker and Teasdale felt that their courage had been renewed, and that they could go forward with better heart and stronger faith.
Last night on the steamer, although I was peaceful and free from pain, I could not sleep until toward morning. I am now writing in the “ladies saloon” while the passengers are taking their tea. I have not been able to write during the convention. I was made very comfortable at the home of Brother and Sister Lacey. I had all that I could do, though, in walking to and from the cars, in attending the early morning meetings, giving morning talks, and in speaking on Sabbaths and Sundays. I am glad I have visited Hobart and Bismark. We are now planning to keep the work alive in Tasmania, and we are looking about for laborers to send to this place. We have thought that Brother and Sister Wilson would make good laborers for this place, and are hoping that they will be inclined to come from New Zealand and take up the burden here. If anything is to result from our work in Tasmania, the people must have patient instruction, line upon line, and precept upon precept, here a little and there a little.
What precious light and clear evidences we have concerning the truth for this time! I had no other idea than that you would be selected as the president of the General Conference. We pray earnestly for you that the Lord will give you a healthful experience, and clear understanding of His mind and will, and that you may be constantly imbued with the Holy Spirit. Both Willie and myself understand your perplexities and difficulties. I have a most intense desire that you shall keep an eye single to the glory of God, and that you will not allow any man’s judgment to control you. The Lord lives and reigns, and He is to be glorified in all those that come near unto Him. I have nothing but the most tender, pitying sympathy for you, my brother.
It has been hard for me to give the message that God has given to me for those I love, and yet I have not dared to withhold it. I have to make my face as flint against the faces of those who set themselves so stubbornly to carry out their own way and to pursue their own unrighteous course. I would not do a work that is so uncongenial to me if I thought that God would excuse me from it. When I have written one testimony to the brethren, I have thought that I should not have any more to write; but again I am in travail of soul, and cannot sleep or rest. In the night season I am speaking and writing clear words of admonition. I waken so burdened in soul that I am again driven to take up my pen. In various ways matters are opened up before my mind, and I dare not rest, or keep quiet.
I fear and tremble for the souls of men who are in responsible places in Battle Creek. If their works had no further influence than simply upon themselves, I could breathe more freely; but I know that the enemy is using men who are in positions of trust, and who are not consecrated to the work, and who know not what manner of spirit they are of. When I realize that men who are connected with them are also in blindness, and will not see the harm that is being done by the precept and example of these unconsecrated agents, it seems to me that I cannot hold my peace. I have to write, for I know that the mold that those men are giving to the work is not after God’s order.
The faculty of speech is a precious gift, and if the noblest of our faculties, reason, is set to the task of knowing God, then the gift of speech may become a means of grace to others, a channel through which the knowledge of God may be communicated. But if we do not feel the need of knowledge, we do not obtain it, and cannot impart that which we do not possess. Christ came to our world to assume human nature, to come in connection with man. He used the gift of speech in making known the character of God. He came to speak the words that the Father had given Him. Jesus was the greatest Teacher our world ever knew. His language was simple, clear, and plain. He longed to communicate many things to His disciples that He did not communicate to them because He knew that they could not comprehend them. He said, “I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” [John 16:12.]
In the contemplation of the character of Christ, His humiliation, His agony in Gethsemane, His sentence in the judgment hall, His condemnation and scourging, His crucifixion and death, we can see what humanity will do when it is not under the control of the Spirit of God. When the question was asked, whether men would have Jesus, the innocent, holy Prince of heaven, or a base thief and murderer, they cried out, “Release unto us Barabbas.” [Luke 23:18.] To the question, What shall we do with Jesus? the hoarse cry was raised by men who were inspired by Satan, “Crucify him, crucify him!” [Verse 21.]
In this scene is a representation of what those will do who stand under the black banner of the powers of darkness, and what will be the spirit of those whom we shall have to meet in the great crisis that is before us. If Christ had told the disciples all the details of these scenes of cruelty, they would not have comprehended them. Today we need greater faith in order that we may stand the test and the trial that is before us. Let us pray that the Lord will increase our faith.
Lt 59a, 1895
Olsen, Brother and Sister [O. A.]
Launceston, Tasmania
April [May] 12, 1895
Dear Brother and Sister Olsen:
We left Brother Lacey’s home quarter before nine o’clock p.m. for this place, W. C. White, and May Lacey White, and the mother of W. C. W. The marriage ceremony was performed by a clergyman not of our faith, one who has favored our people by letting them have the use of his church free. All the day preparations went off without one unpleasant feature. We would all have been much better pleased if we could have had a minister of our faith tie the marriage knot, but it simply could not be without waiting and incurring considerable expense. Our brethren in N.S.W., I think, have qualified themselves to do this kind of work, but that would avail nothing in Tasmania.
The great desire of the large family was that Mary should be married at her father’s house, and it was as it should be. At the special request of the family I offered a prayer after the marriage ceremony. There were entertained about eight beside the family of the ones we asked to come. Thursday night we rode all night on the cars, and found Brethren Baker and Teasdale waiting for us at the depot. They had secured a room for W. C. White and his wife in a home nearby. Brother and Sister Baker went to the neighbors and secured lodgings. I remained with Sister Rogers. Willie had said that for the first time in his life, he would be pleased to have a vacation of two weeks on the occasion of his marriage, but he could not arrange to have even one evening.
A meeting was appointed Wednesday night at Hobart, and we saw nothing of him until Thursday morning. There is no time, he thinks, for hardly a recess, much more days of leisure and pleasure. He planned months before to have a boat ride, but none of us entered a boat.
Wednesday we hired a horse and carriage to visit the elder of the church, Brother Large. We took our lunch, and spread it on the table, and then enjoyed our simple fare of bread and fruit. We then had a praying season which was very precious to us all. We felt we had the presence of God—Sister Lacey, Minnie Hawkins, her daughter, Willie and his mother. I know the blessing of the Lord rested upon us as we offered up our prayers to our heavenly Father. We then went to Brother Shannon’s. He was not at home. We had a little visit with his wife; then evening had come. We called on the family of Malcoms. They were so glad to see us. They had just moved to Hobart. We had a profitable visit with them, and a season of prayer which all appreciated very much. The next day was Thursday.
The preparation of the marriage, mingled with the packing, made a very busy day, but every thing passed off smoothly, and I must say I was glad when it was all ended, and we were quarter before nine seated in the cars for Launceston. I spoke on Sabbath at 11 a.m. to the little flock who have turned their feet into the royal path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. My discourse was [from] 2 Peter 1. I had much freedom in speaking. There are, I think, seventeen that are keeping the Sabbath in this place as the result of labor there. There were about forty assembled, children and all. Brother Colcord left first, and he spoke twice to those who came out to hear—which was but very few. Next Brother Corliss tarried here, and spoke once or twice. Then our party spent Sabbath and Sunday speaking to those who attended. We had a precious season. Good testimonies were borne. Sunday we had a larger room, and there were more out, and I had great freedom speaking from (1 John 3), the love of God to the human family. The Lord blessed me with freedom, and all [apparently] listened with deepest interest.
After the meeting closed, a tall well dressed lady hastened to the stand, and grasped my hand, and saluted me. “O,” said she, “I am so glad to see you. I wish to thank you for writing that book, Great Controversy. It was the means of saving the soul of my son. He was sick. We knew he could not live. He asked for some book to read that could be a help to him religiously. I had purchased a book, The Great Controversy, but I did not seem to understand much about its contents. My son read it through with intense interest. He said, ‘Here is this book. I have found that which I could not find in any book in your library. I find the more I read, the more beautiful are the truths that are brought out, and every time I read it, I find something that helps me. I am not afraid to die now. I have found rest and peace in Jesus Christ.’ He died in perfect peace.”
I asked his age. She said, “He was about thirty years old, but that book was everything to him. He told me if I ever saw the one who wrote that book that I must tell her what it had done for him. I said I would. I said, ‘I will, for it will be an encouragement to her.’ He said, ‘Do so, Mother, for that book has made the way so plain I can walk in it. It is God’s message carrying light and blessing to others.’ I lend it to one and another, and it is not at home scarcely any of the time, and those who read it say they never read a book which made the Bible so plain and clear to their understanding.” I asked her name. She told me, but not speaking it distinctly enough to be sure. I thought our brethren would be able to tell me, and what was my surprise to learn that they knew not the woman, and that they had never seen her before. They think they can find out who she is. If they do not find the woman, they cannot know where that book so much prized has been traveling, and what it must have done in families.
The greatest trouble here has been the people are very much more loyal to their ministers than they are to their God. They are a church-going people, and they have been warned not to go out and hear, and the result has been small numbers have come out to the tent to hear. They say any argument that is hard to handle is an opposition [to them], but the work that has been done is the sewing of the seed.
I believe God has a people in this place, and they must be warned. Brethren Baker and Teasdale say that we had the largest number out that they have seen at any time. The first thing to do is to get the ears of people. But if those who have ears will not hear, no one can compel them to hear. This is the difficulty in this country. They have ears, but they hear not; eyes have they, but they see not. But if we can get them to contemplate the cross of Calvary, the great plan of redemption, then the soul is gained. The heart is willing to see the wondrous things out of His law. We feel so sorry when a long protractor effort has been made and yet there are so few souls as the result. But these few can teach others also, and there be an army raised up to rally around the standard. The Lord has work for each and all to do. Not one is excused.
I read your letter in reference to my request not to receive wages from the past year. I thought most earnestly of giving up the paper writing, writing not for any of them, and seeing if I could employ a worker for myself to get out the many things suffering to be done.
I have had the subject of sanctification by faith on my mind for a long time, genuine sanctification. It has never appeared as it should be. Testimony of the Church, No. 24 [34?], is a greatly needed book for Christian parents, especially defining [the] mother’s duties; and revising the book on Christian Temperance which needs so much to be done, and a book for the youth has long been urged upon me.
I considered the question, and thought I could give the Review and Herald a resting spell for one year, and also the Signs, and other periodicals; and first of all urge on the work on The Life of Christ. But I could not get a word in favor of this, and therefore I have furnished articles just as abundantly as heretofore.
I have not had a reporter, therefore I have written the articles from my pen for Fannie to prepare, while I have never done more earnest labor working for the churches than the past year; so I have not any hesitancy in taking the same salary that I have done. And in addition to all the labor mentioned, there have been private testimonies very taxing to me, and also another class of labor I must do—to feed the hungry, cloth the naked, [and] invest money to employ laborers. I am at the present time paying nineteen dollars per week for workers in Ashfield, Petersham, Canterbury, and the suburbs about Sydney. So you see there has not, in any period of my labors, been so strong a draft upon my financial and spiritual resources as at the present. How long my resources will admit of this constant strain, I am unable to say. I am looking to Him who has no limit to His funds to supply every lack.
We found our Australian Conference could not carry the laborers so essential at this time for want of funds, and I could not consent to have them sent away into other fields at a point of time when the opposition was waxing stronger and stronger—five ministers rallying all their powers, inspired with a power from beneath—meanwhile, souls continually embracing the truth, and one baptism following another. How could we relax or diminish the efforts now?
The Plymouth brethren have warmed up to white heat, and taken away the hall, the place of meeting for our brethren in Ashfield. Therefore the next thing we must have is a meeting house. We must lift for all that we are worth, and get a place of worship. We cannot hang down our heads and beat a retreat. We have no need to faint or to be discouraged. The new converts have done their uttermost to purchase a hundred and fifty dollar tent, and two tents are now running in the field in the suburbs of Sydney. I have five pounds towards the tent, and I shall probably have to give twenty pounds, maybe forty, for the house of worship. The enthusiasm is now up, and must not die down.
After spending one week in Melbourne, we go to Sydney—Elder Corliss and wife, W. C. White and his wife, and the mother to help them in this emergency. After the outposts about Sydney have had the message of warning, we advance to Sydney, and then will be a long protracted effort. Three or four tents will be furnished for different localities, and all the talent we can command will be brought into working order. The Lord gives fitness for the work. We must drink ourselves of the water of life before the well of water will be in us springing up into everlasting life, by refreshing souls thirsting for soul salvation. You see what is before us. I see no let up in this warfare for me. May the Lord God of Israel plan our battles for us, and qualify us to do a work which Heaven shall set its signature to. A great work is to be done.
We are glad we held the convention in Hobart. Willie and I made up a sum of four pounds, W.C.W. giving one pound, and I three, and prepared food for those who were living in the country in Bismark and other places. We would remove every obstacle from this people that it might be made possible for them to attend the convention. I would not have had them deprived of the instruction given at that meeting if we had had to pay five times as many pounds as we did. The poor must have the gospel message preached to them as well as those who are in well-to-do circumstances.
Now there is land being purchased for a building for a church to be erected in Melbourne. A new building has been erected in Auckland since the camp meeting in that place closed. There will, in all probability, have to be a meeting house built in Hobart. It is becoming very difficult to secure a place where there can be meetings held on Sundays and Sunday evenings. The church they now occupy was build by a dissenting minister of the Wesleyan order, I think, and how long he will favor us with his church remains to be seen. But it is very small. He built it himself to preach in it himself, and how long he will be so generous to let Seventh-day Adventists have it free, we cannot tell.
You see a great work is to be done everywhere in these colonies. My heart burns with a desire to engage more fully in the work, but this I learn I am not able to do. Last Friday night was the most suffering night I have had for years. It has been four long months since I have been able to sleep sufficiently. I rise, make my [fires], and write as early as 12 p.m., 1 a.m., and two o’clock in the morning, and work the entire day, and speak often three times in the week.
I was awakened in the night mentioned, and nearly suffocated for breath, and my heart felt very painful. I suffered much. I could obtain no relief. I thought I might die, but my prayer was made to God that He might give me relief. I dared not close my eyes in sleep. My pulse was very feeble, and missing every third beat. Past midnight I slept, and next morning my countenance revealed I had suffered. But I dared not sit up. I lay in bed until time to dress for the meeting. Notice had been given that I would speak at three p.m. Had I consulted my feelings I could not have gone forward. By faith the Lord helped me, and the pain and fearful sensations in my heart ceased. I was scarcely able to stand. The cab took me to the meeting, and when I stood up all my fears and trembling left me. I had not the slightest trace of feebleness. I spoke upon the special love of God as expressed in (1 John 3), “Beloved, what manner of love,” etc. There were a goodly number assembled, and there were men and women [of intelligence] before me.
I spoke above one hour, [and felt that I could have spoken for an] hour longer, but thought it not best. All said my voice was full, and the words spoken were just what they needed to hear. I thanked the Lord with my heart and soul and voice. Brethren Baker and Teasdale felt that their courage had been renewed, and that they could go forward with better heart and stronger faith.
Last night I had no fears, and felt in no peril from heart difficulty. I was peaceful and free from pain, but sleepless until toward morning. I am now writing in the ladies’ saloon while the passengers are at supper. I have not been able during the convention to write. I have had my home at Brother Lacey’s, and have been comfortable. The walking to and from the cars, and speaking Sabbaths and Sundays, and attending early morning meetings, and giving morning talks, have been all I could do. But I am glad I have visited Hobart and Bismarck. Now we are planning how to keep the work alive in these places, and we must have some one or ones to labor in Tasmania. We have thought of Brother Wilson and wife now in New Zealand, and we hope that they will be inclined to come to Tasmania and work here; for if anything is expected of this people, they must have patient education, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little.
I ask you, what think you of my plan of laying aside all writing articles for papers, and Fannie, Marian, and I turning our minds and powers to book making—getting our small books as I have suggested in this letter. Then I can take hold again after one year’s period. That is, working in another line to prepare books, and taking no money from the Conference. I have, the past year, had such constant labor, after starting with such full determination to carry through the writing of The Life of Christ. Then such earnest calls have been made, I have not dared to refuse them, so I have done next to nothing on that book. Marian’s chance is to search every article and cull out all she can, and make the best use of it she can. I have so many interruptions. It is not much use to have the care of churches, and incur the responsibilities of the household, and keep a hotel with comers and goers creating excitement, and I still be able to write book. But I am in my dreams writing books and calculating for their publications. I am seeking counsel of God. The Life of Christ has dragged along fearfully, and the people need it. “The Sermon on the Mount” has been a long time in preparation, and the people need this book. I must be of an understanding mind and have a pure heart, else I can do nothing.
What precious light and clear evidences we have of the truth of this time. I had no other idea but that you would be selected as president of the General Conference. We pray for you most earnestly that the Lord would give you a healthful, clear understanding of His mind and His will, and then that you shall be worked by the Holy Spirit. I can understand, so also can Willie, your perplexities and your difficulties; and for this reason I have felt most intense desire that you should keep an eye single to the glory of God, that not a man’s mind or judgment shall have control over you. The Lord lives and reigns. “I will,” He says “be glorified in them that come near Me.” [Leviticus 10:3.] I have naught but the most tender, pitying sympathy for you, my brother. [I have had] great difficulty in giving to those [I love the message that God has given] me, and yet I dare not withhold it. [I have to make my face as flint] against the faces of those who are so firm and so stubborn in their own way and in their own unrighteous course. I would not do this work so uncongenial to me if I thought God would excuse me. And when I have written, I have thought that is the last, I shall not have to write more, and then again I am in travail of soul, and I cannot sleep, I cannot rest. I am speaking and writing in the night season clear and admonitory letters, and I awaken with so great a burden, I am, as it were, driven again to take up my pen. I have things opened before me in various ways, and then I dare not keep quiet.
I fear and tremble for the souls of the men who are actors in responsible places in Battle Creek. If their works went no farther than their individual selves, then I could breathe more freely. But when I know that the enemy is using unconsecrated men in positions of trust, and these men do not know what manner of spirit they are of, and those who are in connection with them are also in blindness as to the harm that is being done by precept and example, it seems I cannot hold my peace. I have to write, knowing that a mold is given to the work that will not be in God’s order. Just there is the danger of some connecting with him who will receive the impressions which he makes upon their minds.
The faculty of speech is precious gift. It is a wonderful means of grace, and if the noblest of the faculties, reason, is set to the task to learn God, the highest practical employment of his speech is to communicate to others that which God has communicated to him. If we do not feel the need of knowledge, we do not obtain it, and we cannot impart that which we do not acquire. Christ came to our world to assume human nature, and to come in connection with man that He could use His faculty of speech in making God known as He is. He says, “It is not my words which I speak, but the words which the Father has to give me.” [See John 14:24.] Jesus was the greatest teacher our world ever knew. He imparted knowledge. How simple, clear, and plain, was His speech. How He longed to communicate many things to His disciples, but He fully understood that they could not comprehend them; and He said, “I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” [John 16:12.]
We need to contemplate Jesus and His self denial, His great humiliation; His rejection of men, His suffering in Gethsemane, in the judgment hall, His condemnation, His scourging while pronounced innocent tell us what is the spirit of man and what humanity will do when not under the control of the Spirit of God. When the question was asked, “Whom shall I release unto you?” [there was] the choosing of a base thief and murderer Barrabas, before the innocent, pure, and holy Prince of Heaven. To the question, “What shall we do with Jesus?” was the hoarse cry from men inspired of Satan, “Crucify him, crucify him.” [Matthew 27:17-22; Luke 23:21.]
Here is the party who is standing under the black banner of the powers of darkness, and [here] is a revelation of what such ones will give themselves to [in the] great crisis before us. Had the disciples had a [view of the details of these] scenes of cruelty, they could not have comprehended them. [Today we] need greater faith in order to stand [the test and trial that is before us. Let] us pray that the Lord will increase [our faith.]
Lt 60, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Bismark, Tasmania
April 22, 1895
Dear Brother Olsen:
I have written largely with reference to students spending an unreasonably long time in gaining an education, but hope I shall not be misunderstood, in regard to what is essential education. I do not mean that a superficial work should be done that may be illustrated by the way in which some portions of the land are worked in Australia. The plough was only put in the depth of a few inches, the ground was not prepared for the seed, and the harvest was meager, corresponding to the superficial preparation that was given to the land.
God has given inquiring minds to youth and children. Their reasoning powers are entrusted to them as precious talents. It is the duty of parents to keep the matter of their education before them in its true meaning, for it comprehends many lines. They should be taught to improve every talent and organ, expecting that they will be used in the service of Christ for the uplifting of fallen humanity. Our schools are the Lord’s special instrumentality to fit up the children and youth for missionary work. Parents should understand their responsibility, and help their children to appreciate the great blessings and privileges that God has provided for them in educational advantages.
But their domestic education should keep pace with their education in literary lines. In childhood and youth practical and literary training should be combined, and the mind stored with knowledge. Parents should feel that they have a solemn work to do, and should take hold of it earnestly. They are to train and mold the characters of their children. They should not be satisfied with doing a surface work. Before every child is opened up a life involved with highest interests, for they are to be made complete in Christ through the instrumentalities which God has furnished. The soil of the heart should be pre-occupied; the seeds of truth should be sown therein in the earliest years. If parents are careless in this matter, they will be called to account for their unfaithful stewardship. Children should be dealt with tenderly and lovingly, and taught that Christ is their personal Saviour, and that by the simple process of giving their hearts and minds to Him, they become His disciples.
Children should be taught to have a part in domestic duties. They should be instructed how to help father and mother in the little things that they can do. Their minds should be trained to think, their memories taxed to remember their appointed work; and in the training to habits of usefulness in the home, they are being educated in doing practical duties appropriate to their age. If children have proper home training, they will not be found upon the streets receiving the haphazard education that so many do. Parents who love their children in a sensible way will not permit them to grow up with lazy habits, and ignorant of how to do home duties.
Ignorance is not acceptable to God, and is unfavorable for the doing of His work. To be ignorant is not to be considered a mark of humility, or something for which men should be praised. But God works for people in spite of their ignorance. Those who have had no opportunity for acquiring knowledge, or who have had no opportunity and have failed to improve it, and become converted to God, can be useful in the service of the Lord through the operation of His Holy Spirit. But those who have education, and who consecrate themselves to the service of God, can do service in a greater variety of ways, and can accomplish a much more extensive work in bringing souls to the knowledge of the truth than can those who are uneducated. They are on vantage ground, because of the discipline of mind which they have had. We would not depreciate education in the least, but would counsel that it be carried forward with a full sense of the shortness of time, and the great work that has to be accomplished before the coming of Christ.
We would not have the students receive the idea that they can spend many years in acquiring an education. Let them use the education that they can acquire in a reasonable time in carrying forward the work of God. Our Saviour is in the sanctuary pleading in our behalf. He is our interceding High Priest, making an atoning sacrifice for us, pleading in our behalf the efficacy of His blood. Parents should seek to represent this Saviour to their children, to establish in their minds the plan of salvation, how that because of transgression of the law of God Christ became our Sin-bearer.
The very fact that the only begotten Son of God gave His life because of man’s transgression, to satisfy justice and to vindicate the honor of God’s law should be constantly kept before the minds of children and youth. The object of this great sacrifice should also be kept before them; for it was to uplift fallen man degraded by sin that this great sacrifice was made. Christ suffered in order that through faith in Him our sins might be pardoned. He became man’s substitute and surety, Himself taking the punishment, though all undeserving, that we who deserved it might be free, and return to our allegiance to God through the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. He is our only hope of salvation. Through His sacrifice we who now are on probation are prisoners of hope. We are to reveal to the universe, to the world fallen and to worlds unfallen, that there is forgiveness with God, and through the love of God we may be reconciled to God. Man repents, becomes contrite in heart, believes in Christ as his atoning sacrifice, and realizes that God is reconciled to him.
We should cherish gratitude of heart all the days of our life because the Lord has put on record these words: “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] The reconciliation of God to man, and man to God, is sure when certain conditions are met. The Lord says, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” [Psalm 51:17.] Again He says, “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” [Psalm 34:18.] “Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off.” [Psalm 138:6.]
“Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest? For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor, and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” [Isaiah 66:1, 2.] “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garments of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.” [Isaiah 61:1-3.]
The Psalmist writes, “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” [Psalm 147:3.] Though He is the restorer of fallen humanity, yet “he telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by their names. Great is our Lord and of great power: his understanding is infinite. The Lord lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the ground. Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God … The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy. Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem: praise thy God, O Zion.” How precious are the lessons of this Psalm. We might well devote study to the last four Psalms of David.
The words also of the prophet are very precious: “Will a man leave the snow of Lebanon which cometh down from a rock in the field? or shall the cold flowing waters that come from another place be forsaken? Because my people hath forgotten me, they have burned incense to vanity, and they have caused them to stumble in their ways from their ancient paths, to walk in paths, in a way not cast up.” [Jeremiah 18:14, 15.] “Thus saith the Lord: Cursed is the man that trusteth in man, and who maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.
“For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” [Jeremiah 17:5-8.]
Lt 61, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, Australia
February 2, 1895
Dear Brother:
I thank you for writing to me so fully. I am pleased to hear from you, and appreciate your letter because I know your time is limited. We present your case before God in our seasons of prayer.
Fearing that something will arise that will bring burdens upon me and make it impossible for me to answer your letter, I will go at the matter at once. For the past week we have had our house full of people. One night we lodged seventeen. Sometimes we have more, and sometimes less company. But company has been the order of things ever since we came to New South Wales. They began to come even before we were properly settled. I love to entertain my brethren, but it does greatly hinder me in my writing. This much company makes it necessary to hire extra help at different occasions, and brings perplexity upon me. People frequently come at an inopportune time, just when I need strength to write out important matter.
I need to enlarge my working force, and I wish I could procure the right kind of help to prepare books which are being called for by Dr. Kellogg and others. But it is difficult to procure this class of help. I could now use a good consecrated worker to the very best advantage in selecting and preparing matter for these books. My workers do all that they can, but I could use more help in the line of preparation of books for the present. This class of work requires tact, wisdom, and experience; and when you find a worker that can do this manner of work, please remember my need.
You speak of the instruction that the Lord has given in regard to moving from Battle Creek, and you say you feel anxious over the way in which this matter has been handled in the past. Now, my brother, I also have been very much burdened over this matter, and have waked up at twelve, one, and two o’clock at night with heavy burdens upon me.
One night I was in Battle Creek, and was bearing a decided testimony to the church. I was invited to attend a committee meeting, but I said, No, I cannot trust my message to your committees. Not all of those who compose your committee have a vital connection with God, and they will not comprehend the message that God has given me to bear. The church must hear my message, and I must speak in language that cannot be misinterpreted, in the same way that messages have been misinterpreted again and again in Battle Creek, so that men have been led to turn from the counsel of God, and to follow their own ideas and imaginations. You have evaded the true meaning of the message. You have not heeded the warnings, and this has made it necessary that additional messages should be sent to you, in order that you may avoid evil and accomplish the plan that God would have you [accomplish].
I stood before the church and presented matters in the light in which God has presented them to me. I said, Warnings have been sent to Battle Creek, reproving them for continually adding building to building, but His instruction has been interpreted in such a way as to mean just what those wanted it to mean who determined to carry out their own ideas. They were determined to have the testimony in harmony with their plans. They continually wrested and misinterpreted the word sent them. The money which was invested in enlarging the Battle Creek College to accommodate the ministers’ school would better have been invested somewhere else, for no more buildings were needed there. There were ample facilities provided for the education of students. It was not best that more students should come to the school for there was only talent and wisdom to manage a certain number.
The ministerial institutes and schools could have been held in buildings that were already erected in Battle Creek, and the money used in enlarging the college, could have been invested to better advantage in erecting school buildings in other localities, and would have given character to the work that needed to be done in regions beyond. New buildings in Battle Creek meant encouragement for families to move to Battle Creek in order to educate their children in the college. But it would have been a far greater blessing to the children and to all concerned to be associated in some other locality, and in much smaller numbers. It would have been a far greater blessing to have erected smaller schools, that could have been conducted upon the plans more after the order that the Lord has presented. The congregating of people in Battle Creek is as much the fault of those who are in leading positions as it is the fault of those who have moved into this place.
If the college in Battle Creek was broken up into smaller companies, and schools located in various places, improvement might be made, in physical, mental, and moral culture. Wherever schools are located there should be a primary department. The Lord has not said that there should be fewer buildings, but that there should be more buildings. The point is that these buildings should not all be centered in one place. The large amount of means invested in a few localities should be invested in providing facilities for a wider field, so that many more students could be better accommodated. The time has come for lifting the standard of truth in many places, for arousing interest, and extending the missionary field. The time has come when many more should have the message of truth brought to their attention.
I have been bearing a testimony from God to you that there are better fields for missionary enterprise than Battle Creek, and yet you have been planning to have everything of the most convenient order in that field. There are better fields to be entered and worked than those on which you are expending so much means and labor. I have no more testimony to give to the people in Battle Creek to encourage them to move out, so long as there are so many counteracting agencies. Your large facilities are saying to the people, “Come to Battle Creek; move here with your families, and educate your children here.”
But it would be far better if these families would remain where they are. If these people would encourage the church in which they are members, and establish small, humble school buildings in which to do service for God, they could accommodate their own children within their borders. There are men and women of talent who could be used in these limited schools, who would not know how to work after the manner in which they work in Battle Creek, and it is not essential that they should know how to work in this way. In these smaller schools they could bring good talent, and a condition of things could be brought about [in a] far less objectionable [way] than that which exists in Battle Creek.
In these smaller schools a far more favorable condition of things could be brought about than that which exists at Battle Creek. The students would have fewer temptations to meet, and they could acquire an education that would be of value both in this life and in the future life. God would work with those who were consecrated to Him, who were patient, kind, and loving, and who would watch for souls as they that must give an account. Under the name of discipline, most painful manifestations have been called forth. Impressions have been left upon hearts and minds and characters, that are of an offensive order, because men who administered what they called discipline carried out their own unsanctified desires. The teacher cannot be acceptable to God who is unregenerated, who has not a living connection with heaven. He must be created anew in Christ Jesus, and place himself daily upon the altar, a living sacrifice.
In your letter you express true sentiments. You say that “a people enjoying the great privileges and opportunities we enjoy here in Battle Creek, who have opportunities for instruction, information and training that we have, should certainly be in a condition to work in the Lord’s vineyard.” If the families who have moved into Battle Creek had possessed the true missionary spirit many of them would have felt that they had a work to do in the smaller churches from which they came. If they had been laborers together with God, they would have made proper use of their faculties in these small churches and in their home neighborhood. They would have been willing to make any sacrifice in order that they might enlighten and bless others around them.
Those who rush into Battle Creek, leaving the churches that need their help to struggle along in feebleness, do it without directions from the Lord. Those who fail to work intelligently in their home churches, who are not living stones in the temple of God where they are, will not be likely to be any help in the church at Battle Creek. They will rather be a hindrance, dead weights that drag down the living machinery. If, after living in Battle Creek for years, it is found that they have made no advancement, how can it be thought that they will know better how to work if they remain years longer? In this way they learn to be slothful servants, and bury their talents in the earth instead of improving them.
Those who are members of churches in scattered regions, or members of new churches in our cities, should be set to work at once. They should be entrusted with some responsibility in missionary lines as soon as they become believers in the truth. If Saul, who had been a persecutor of the church, could say that the primitive churches glorified God because of the revelation of His love in him, in turning him from Saul the persecutor, to be Paul the apostle, may not those who accept of the truth in our day be trained and educated to become missionaries wherever they may be located? If a church numbers only half a dozen, they should study their Bibles and know how to work for others.
Those who appreciate the truth will reveal to others the fact that everyone ought to know God and to believe in Christ. But because everyone does not know God, because there are so many who are in error, it is incumbent upon the newly converted souls to reveal to others the goodness and mercy of God. Guilt is upon every soul who, having the knowledge of the truth, fails to impart that knowledge and does not represent the truth as it is in Jesus by both precept and example. He who does not act in accordance with the truth he has received, acknowledge divine superintendence, not trusting in himself, will fail of doing the work of God. But he who trusts in God will find a field of work prepared to his hand.
Humble, simplehearted, trusting souls may do a work which will cause rejoicing in heaven, among the angels of God. Their work at home, in their neighborhood, and in the church will be in its results as far-reaching as eternity. It is because this work is not done that the experience of young converts never reaches beyond the ABC in divine things. They are always babies, always needing to be fed upon milk, and never able to partake of true gospel meat.
Large gatherings in Battle Creek are a great mistake. Do you think the Lord can be well pleased to have still larger preparations made to accommodate a larger number of students, when such definite light has been given upon this subject, and instead of distributing the light into many places of the earth it is concentrated at Battle Creek, and many do not appreciate or improve the light that is given them? If they would go into missionary fields, and work in a small way, God would give many His Holy Spirit, who are now destitute of His grace.
Parents can labor for the conversion of their children, and keep the spiritual interests fresh and wholesome in the home by bringing up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Wherever there are a few Sabbath schools, let the parents unite together in providing a place for a day school, where the children of the various Sabbath schools can come together. Let them employ a Christian teacher who as a consecrated missionary shall educate the children in such a way to lead them to become missionaries themselves. Work, work while it is day, for the night cometh in which no man can work.
Parents must gird on the armor, and by their own example they must teach their children to be missionaries. Let parents put forth unselfish efforts, and the Lord will work with their efforts as they perseveringly teach their children to bear responsibilities. As the children practice the Bible lessons, they will receive an education of the highest value. Wherever there are Sabbathkeepers there is a missionary field. If parents are not able to send their children to school, let them hire an exemplary, religious teacher, who will feel it a pleasure to work for the Master in any capacity, who will be willing to cultivate any part of the Lord’s vineyard.
Let mothers and fathers co-operate with the teacher and devote an hour daily to study, becoming learners with their children. Make the educating hour one of pleasure and importance, and your confidence will increase in this method of seeking for the salvation of your children. Your own spiritual growth will be more rapid as you learn to work for them. As you work in a humble way, unbelief will disappear. Faith and activity will impart to your experience ardor, assurance, and satisfaction, which will increase day by day as you follow on to know the Lord, and to make Him known. Your prayers will become earnest. You will have some real object for which to pray.
The prevailing monotony of the religious round of service in our churches, needs to be disturbed. The leaven of activity needs to be introduced, that our church members may work along new lines, and devise new methods. The Holy Spirit’s power will move upon the hearts when this dead, lifeless monotony is broken up, and many will begin to work in earnest who never before thought of being anything but idle spectators. A working church on earth is connected with the working church above. God works, angels work, and men should work for the conversion of souls. Efforts should be made to do something while the day lasts, and the grace of God will be revealed that souls may be saved to Christ. Everywhere souls are perishing in their sins, and God is saying to every believing soul, “Hasten to their help with the message that I shall give you.”
The Lord has made men his agents, and with heart filled with the love of Jesus, they are to co-operate with Him in turning men from error to truth. God blesses the earth with sunshine and with showers. He causes the earth to bring forth its plenteous treasures for the use of man. The Lord has made man His almoner to dispense His heavenly gifts by bringing souls to the truth. Will my brethren in America inquire how the precious, saving truth reached them when they were in darkness? Men and women brought their tithes and offerings unto God, and as means filled the treasury, men were sent out to advance the work. This same process must be repeated if souls in darkness are reached in this day.
I have seen that there are many who are withholding their tithes altogether, and others are withholding a part, and yet the great missionary work increases year by year. We should learn to economize in our household expenditures. No needless expense should be incurred, because want and wretchedness, poverty and misery, of every description press upon our notice, and we are called upon to help those who are needy and distressed. We must see that those who need food and clothing are supplied, that those who are in soul-poverty may understand the goodness of salvation.
It is when we engage in earnest work, working according to our several ability that God manifests Himself to us, and gives us grace for grace. A working church in travail for souls will be a praying church, a believing church, and a receiving church. A church whose members are found upon their knees before God, supplicating His mercy, seeking Him daily, is a church that is feeding upon the Bread of life, and drinking of the water of life. The promise, “Whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you,” will be verified to them. [John 15:16.]
Christlike activity pursued with persevering zeal will bring large returns. There will be an enlarged experience in love, and the human agent will have elevated views as to what God would do through him as he stands at his post of duty. Then will the church arise and shine, realizing that the glory of God has risen upon her, and that the darkness is receding. Missionary success will be proportionate to wholehearted, thoroughly consecrated effort. Every departure from true missionary effort, every failure to cherish the missionary spirit, has reacted upon the church, and there has been a decline of spirituality. But every earnest effort that has been made in missionary lines has brought spiritual health to the church, and has not only increased the membership of the church, but has increased its holy zeal and gladness.
The commandment-keeping people of God erelong will be placed in a most trying position; but all those who have walked in the light, and have diffused the light, will realize that God interposes in their behalf. When everything looks most forbidding, then the Lord will reveal His power to His faithful ones. When the nation for which God has worked in such a marvelous manner, and over which He has spread the shield of Omnipotence, abandons Protestant principles, and through its legislature gives countenance and support to Romanism in limiting religious liberty, then God will work in His own power for His people that are true. The tyranny of Rome will be exercised, but Christ is our refuge.
Many have been altogether too long in a sleepy condition. While some have worked intently, and have manifested unfailing energy, others have stood as spectators, and have been ready to make remarks of a critical character as to methods and results. This they are ready to do though they have never exercised their minds in originating any plans whereby precious souls might be saved for Christ. They stand ready to find fault with those who do something. When these indolent souls awake, and show some signs of returning consciousness, they are disappointed if others do not at once find them pleasant places in the work. It is a great shock to them to find out that work cannot be done without painstaking, self-denying, self-crucifying efforts.
They expect success, and think that they must have the same order of success as did the apostles on the day of Pentecost. This success they will have when they go through the same experience of humble, self-denying sacrifice as did the apostles. When they present as earnest supplications from broken, contrite hearts as did the apostles, then the same proportion of success will attend their labors. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] “To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.” [Isaiah 66:2.]
The home missionary spirit is little known among us, and its manifestation is greatly needed in every line of the work. A portion of the church has begun to exhibit some activity along missionary lines. But if we do not awake more generally and fully, then those who know not the truth for this time will advance before us, and block up our way. How long will it require to wake up the idlers who for years have loitered in Battle Creek? When will they become faithful witnesses for God? How long will it be before they yoke up with Christ? How much time each day is set apart for the worship of God? How many have seasons for contemplation and for earnest prayer?
How many have educated themselves in economical habits, so that they may have gifts and offerings for the Lord’s house? How many have had their heart warmed by the practical exercise of benevolence? How many have made earnest efforts to inspire others to work for the Master? To work at home successfully will need a spirit, faith, and perseverance that will not fail nor be discouraged. There is no one inactive in heaven, and no one will enter the mansions of bliss who has failed to show love for Christ, who has put forth no efforts for the salvation of others.
Who can tell the work that might have been done in our churches if those who advocated the truth had not left these feeble churches, to crowd into Battle Creek? If all our people had been faithful, diligent, God-fearing servants of Christ, and had put forth efforts to make their influence as far-reaching as possible at home where they are, how many souls might have been saved! One taper kindled in one place might have been the means of kindling many others, and the result would have been that the voice of praise and thanksgiving would have been heard, and many would have said, “What hath God wrought! He has done exceeding abundantly above all that we asked or thought.” [Numbers 23:23; Ephesians 3:20.]
Lt 62, 1895
Olsen, Brother and Sister [O. A.]
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, Australia
April 11, 1895
Dear Brother and Sister Olsen:
I cannot sleep past one o’clock a.m., and so arise and begin writing. I received your letters in which you speak of Willie’s children coming in company with Brother and Sister Palmer. I had supposed that Mary Mortensen might have made one of the party, but after reading your letter, I agreed with you that the case was rather a complex one and that, should she come more or less perplexity would be the result. I shall ever respect Mary. I have an interest in her for the way in which she has cared for, and devoted herself to, the dear children.
It is a remarkable fact that not one who knows May Lacey has one word of criticism to offer concerning her. They say that she will be a true helpmeet for Willie, and be kind, tender, and true to the children. But I am sorry indeed that Mary Mortensen has to be separated from the children. I am sure the Lord will comfort and bless her. I am thoroughly convinced that the Lord’s hand is in the marriage that is contemplated. From the first intimation of this matter, I felt relieved. Willie needs a companion such as May Lacey is, a woman of well balanced mind.
I have not seen Willie for three months. He is still in New Zealand, and we have heard from him only occasionally, but we expect to meet him at the convention in Tasmania.
It would be a great treat to me to have a long social conversation with you both; but this may never be in this world. I am advancing in years and know not how soon I may lay off my armor. God grant that I may be ready. I have been engaged in writing with deep interest. Of late I have been speaking at Ashfield and Petersham. The Lord has blessed me with great freedom and my soul has been strengthened and encouraged. The interest in Ashfield has not abated. The work moves slowly in Petersham. Five ministers have, of late, been manifesting fierce opposition and the bitterest hatred against the law of God. Mr. Picton, the man who was worsted in the discussion with Brother Corliss, seems to carry a spirit of intense revenge, and his mode of attack is of a very low order. He stands on the corner of the street near the tent on Sunday afternoon, and while the meetings are in progress he bellows forth words that he will not care to meet in the judgment. We think his opposition is doing some good, for respectable citizens will not unite themselves with such a man. He studies Canright’s book and uses his arguments freely.
Dr. Porter, a minister from Ballarat, began his attack on the truth in a very roughshod manner. The character of his remarks were of a fierce order, but when he saw that his words were placed in writing, and that [when] repeated they did not sound very well as the product of the mind of a minister of the gospel, he somewhat changed his method. When he was reviewed by Brother Hare, he denied that he had said some of the things he had uttered. There were voices in the congregation from outsiders who had heard him, saying, “Yes, you did say it, Dr. Porter.” Those who sat next to him say that he trembled like a leaf as Brother Hare vindicated the law of God. Dr. Porter had made proud boasts that he would make it so hot for the Adventists that they could not stay in Petersham, and that the people would soon see the last of them. The Lord has heard these proud boasts, and He will work to sustain those whom He has set for the defense of the truth. The Lord can bring to naught the boasts of this proud defyer.
Dr. Watts, a Disciple minister, and a man of considerable influence, has also commenced a tirade against the law of God. Two more ministers are in the ring, and all are manifesting the dragon spirit. The last symbol of opposition against the law of God is spoken of as having two horns like a lamb, and as speaking like a dragon.
There has been an urgent call for work to be done in Canterbury, and a new tent, costing $175 has been purchased for this location. The money was raised among those who have newly come to the faith. We shall have meetings in these three localities only two miles apart.
Brother McCullagh carries on the meetings at Ashfield. The atmosphere surrounding his soul is discerned and appreciated by those who are interested in the truth. He wins souls to make decisions. The Holy Spirit manifestly attends his labors. Brother Hare is zealously at work in Petersham. I have spoken in Ashfield and Petersham four evenings with great freedom. Last Sunday night there was a moderately good attendance at the tent, but we could not have the presence of a minister. Brother Semens opened the meeting on one evening and Brother Collins on another.
The Lord gave me much of His Spirit. Last Sunday night the people listened with intense interest. Brother McCullagh was preaching to an interested audience in Ashfield, two miles from Petersham. Brother Hare was attending a meeting in the Baptist church where Mr. Porter was putting forth vain efforts to do away with the law of God. Maggie Hare was there also, taking notes of the discourse. Dr. Watts intended to speak Wednesday night, reviewing the review that Brother Hare gave of Dr. Porter’s discourse on Sunday evening; but a sudden thunderstorm came up, and as a very few were out, the discourse was postponed for a week.
Tonight (Thursday) Brother Hare reviews a second discourse of Mr. Porter’s in the Town Hall. I sometimes wish that Brother Corliss could be on the ground and take his turn with these ministers. Brother McCullagh’s whole soul, and mind, and heart, are in the work, but he has many interests that require his attention, and that too greatly tax him, so that he cannot take part in these debates. But the Lord can work by His power to sustain His servant, and I am sure He will work, and none can hinder Him. Brother Hare is working well, and through these men God can bring glory to His name. These brethren have also labored in Parramatta and Kellyville. Last Sabbath they had quarterly meeting at Parramatta, and Brother McCullagh spoke words. They were as precious as gold, making manifest the fact that the Spirit of God was upon him. Brother Hare has also spoken in Parramatta with good effect. The church is slowly advancing. Brother Hughes and family have moved to Cooranbong, and seem to be well pleased, and are doing well.
There is quite a company now gathered at Cooranbong, who are working under the direction of Brother Rousseau and Brother Metcalfe Hare. The young men who have entered the industrial department of the college put in six hours a day in physical labor and spend the remainder of the day in study. Brother Rousseau has not been well since camp meeting at Ashfield, but has been greatly afflicted with boils. But the work is moving slowly forward. Fannie Bolton was up at Cooranbong one month to prepare matter for an educational pamphlet that is about to be issued.
We must all have courage in the Lord. I have trials, but the Lord helps me to bear them or else I should lose courage. Two more have embraced the truth at Pennant Hills. Brother Schowe has built a house in which Brother James and family are to live while working his farm. He has also built a large room to be used for a meetinghouse, and it is to be dedicated next Sunday. The seven families at Pennant Hills who have embraced the truth will thus have a place in which they can assemble together for the worship of God, and will not need to travel such a long distance on the Sabbath to attend service. Some are entertaining great hopes that souls in that vicinity will embrace the truth. God grant that their expectations may be fulfilled.
This is another portion of the field that must be worked, and the burden will fall still heavier upon the ministers. May the Lord give them physical and mental power sufficient for their day. I have hesitated a long time in reference to leaving this field and visiting Tasmania. The call is very urgent for me to attend the convention to be held in Hobart. Brother Foster is at work in his old place as tailor at Hobart, and Satan is working through him with his deceptive influence of error and delusion. The meetings may be a help to the little church at Hobart.
I take the cars accompanied by May Lacey for Tasmania by way of Melbourne. May the presence of the Lord go with me is my most earnest prayer. “Send me not up without thy presence, O God.” [See Exodus 33:15.]
Elder Olsen, my mind has been so burdened in the night season that I could not sleep after twelve o’clock. The night before last it was nearly one o’clock before I could get to sleep. It is getting to be quite a common thing for me to have pen in hand at one, two, and three o’clock in the morning. I have had much burden in regard to meetings that I have been present in, in spirit, in Battle Creek. I have been talking with the Battle Creek people, the school managers, and responsible men in the sanitarium and office. It has been a mistake to detain students in the college and sanitarium. The article I send is the result of the light given me in regard to this matter. I also send a testimony written for the college when Elder Stone was connected with the school, and also when Professor Bell was acting a part.
My guide presented the matter in the light that I have presented it to you, as near as I can express it. Most decisive words were spoken to the effect that time and money were being unnecessarily used, and that the Lord’s cause was being deprived of talent in various branches, because of the tedious procrastination that was the result of retaining men in Battle Creek who could obtain far more knowledge in imparting that which they had already received in some other place. If the workers were sent forth, the Lord would have a chance to work with His agents. If the workers moved out in His name, young men and women would attain to greater advancement than if they stayed in Battle Creek to perfect an education. Time is short, and we ask you to talk with those concerned in order that the name of the Lord may be glorified by sending workers to their posts of duty where they can gain a better education than at Battle Creek.
Lt 63, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Glenorchy, Tasmania
May 7, 1895
See Lt 58, 1895.
Dear Brother Olsen:
In company with May Lacey we left Granville March 14th [probably April 11] by train. It was necessary that we should be in Melbourne over the Sabbath. I had freedom in speaking on the Sabbath to a crowded hall, and urgent request was made that I address them in the missionary meeting Sunday afternoon. The hall was again full, and the Lord gave me freedom in speaking to the people. An appointment was given out that I would again meet with them in the hall Tuesday evening and present important matters before them. We expected to leave on the boat Thursday evening, but we learned the boat would not leave for Launceston until Friday afternoon, which would bring us in after Sabbath had commenced, and I could not do this if we could any way avoid it. We learned that a boat left Melbourne Tuesday afternoon, and we decided this was much better than traveling on the Sabbath.
From the light the Lord has given me we are becoming careless in our arrangements to travel on the Sabbath. We should be more in earnest in this matter, to avoid traveling in boats or cars on the Sabbath if we can possibly avoid it; and there should be, even if it is difficult, more earnest efforts made, if possible, to not go on to boats or cars on the Sabbath, or arrange to arrive at our destination on the Sabbath. We should avoid traveling on the Sabbath if we can possibly make arrangements to do so, and avoid going on or leaving steamers on the Sabbath day.
Many are getting careless and irreverent on this subject. We should be more strict if we would have the blessing pronounced upon us for obedience. We are to set the children and youth an example in Sabbath observance even in the traveling on cars and steamers. If we do our best to secure tickets on the cars and steamers to avoid traveling on the Sabbath, it is all we can do; for if we shall reach the churches who need help, and those who are to receive the message from God’s messengers, we must need to be on steamships and on cars sometimes on the Sabbath; but then we can, if obliged to be in undesirable company on boats and cars, seek most earnestly to shut the gate and enclose ourselves in with the Lord.
When in God’s providence opportunities open for us to speak a word in season or to relieve suffering humanity we are to improve it; then we may exercise wisdom and seek to relieve it. We need not engage in conversation on temporal business matters, but we can close the gate and commune with God. We need to be always learners in the school of Christ that we may be teachers. Every day return is charged with the amount of obligation proportioned to our uttermost means of usefulness. God requires heart service, whole consecration.
We had a pleasant passage on the steamer, and were not sick. The next morning we found we must anchor ten miles from Launceston, and a small ferry boat came alongside. We were pleased as it drew near to recognize Brother and Sister Teasdale who were on board. They had been holding some meetings twenty miles from Launceston, and providentially we met on the boat. Our effects were placed on the steamer, and we arrived in Launceston about noon. We took a cab for Sister Rogers’, and remained about two hours visiting with Sister Baker and Brother and Sister Teasdale. All were living in Sister Rogers’ rented house. Brother Baker was visiting and laboring some seventy-five miles away.
We took the cars about three o’clock for Hobart. We were highly favored to have a first class compartment to ourselves most of the way. About nine o’clock Brother Lacey and several of the family were at the depot awaiting the arrival of the train, and we received a hearty welcome to the hospitable home of Brother and Sister Lacey.
Sabbath we met in a small church a much larger number of people than I supposed could be represented. The Lord gave me freedom and His blessing as I spoke to the people.
I also spoke Sunday night upon temperance in the large Temperance Hall to quite a good number assembled. The hour appointed for the meeting was late, half past eight. The Wesleyan church was close by the Temperance Hall, and an agreement had been made that no meeting should be held in Temperance Hall until half past eight. After the meeting closed in the Wesleyan chapel was not a favorable time to hold the people, but all listened with deep interest. I was under the auspices of the Temperance Band of Hope Society. We had naught to pay for the hall that night. The first of the week W. C. White visited Bismark, eight miles from Hobart, and held a meeting and made arrangements for meetings during the week.
Brother and Sister Corliss held meetings in Bismark one evening. The next day Brother Corliss returned, and we went back with the same conveyance. All but myself walked most of the way up the high grade. We hired a small furnished cottage, and myself spoke Tuesday night and Wednesday afternoon. We had the little church filled with hungering souls to receive the Bread of life. Brother Colcord spoke Wednesday evening. Thursday we visited some of our brethren dwelling among the hills in the woods—little cultivated farms bearing fruit. We considered how far these people have to travel on foot, miles, to attend meeting and return to their homes.
Thursday evening I again gave the message of truth to the people, dwelling especially upon the truth in these last days. All present, believers and unbelievers, seemed deeply interested. There were those listening who were children of God, seeking to obey His commandments. They possessed humble homes. Although it was evening they had brought their children from eight years old and upwards, but not one eye dropped in slumber; every eye was riveted upon the speaker, and they manifested a wholehearted interest.
I addressed words especially to the children and the youth, and I know that many understood the message of God, and invitation from Jesus to these children, as I told them that Jesus received children that the mothers brought unto Him, and was much displeased with His disciples because they forbade the mothers coming to Christ to disturb Him as He was teaching. But Christ said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He took little children in His arms and put His hands upon them, and blessed them.
The Lord gave us in that assembly His Holy Spirit. There were present the school teachers of Bismark, and there was a woman with a large family of boys in attendance—unbelieving, and we hope that the seed sown may spring up and bear fruit to the glory of God. I presented the keeping of the ten commandments of God as the sure evidence of our love to Jesus Christ as is plainly specified in John 14. Then I linked these sayings of Christ to John on the isle of Patmos, “who also am your brother and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle of Patmos for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.” [Revelation 1:9.] John has voiced the words of Christ for our benefit. Revelation [22]:12-17. A very solemn impression was upon the people. After the meeting closed a woman came up and began to declare, with the Bible in her hand, we were not under the law but under grace. “Yes,” I said, “If we keep the commandments of God, we are not under the bondage of the law, but we are free.”
We received your letter and read it with interest. I was relieved that you express that you have felt troubled in regard to the question of receiving gifts. I merely touched upon that subject. More is to be said. The times are growing hard and close enough in the money line, and God will open ways to us from some source outside of our people. I cannot see how anyone can take exception to this, only by taking extreme views and creating issues which they are not authorized to do. This is God’s own world, and His means and the land in His territory which is in the hands of our enemy, over which Satan has had control to work out his attributes and authority and power. [And if] God shall move upon the human agents, and bring about through His own providence circumstances that will open fields that can be worked, and He sets in operation a series of circumstances that will bring the message to regions beyond, shall finite men set up their human conjectures, and notions to block the way?
This is a species of conscientiousness that is not healthful or sound. It is not the Holy Spirit that is working them in pursuing this course. Let all be careful how they interpose themselves between God, the great Master Worker, and His people. We must see and acknowledge the workings of His providence, and bow to His authority. Let every messenger of God attend to his own specific work, and not be rushing into a work after their own wisdom and devising. If the Lord’s messengers will diligently seek the mercy seat most earnestly, then they will receive wisdom and grace to know God and understand His workings. This knowledge will give them well balanced minds, and sound judgment, and they will not move impulsively at this very critical, important period of our earth’s history.
God wills not that any should move hastily with shortsighted views, but let them wait patiently, let there be due consideration. Every move is now to be made after most thorough and judicious thoughtfulness and much prayer. Then there will be seen a more even and sure current of experience to leave behind them, which will be of great help to others, for the glory of the Lord is their rereward. Our only safety will be in constantly seeking wisdom of God, in carefully weighing every point with much fear and trembling, lest human judgment shall be brought into the work in the place of light from heaven, which is promised to all those who seek the Lord with the whole heart.
God will open many doors of labor, and also of hope, if we will patiently, prayerfully wait for Him to guide our decisions, and not become rash in our own impetuous plans. The great General of the armies of heaven is in every battle in His cause, and He will lead His people in these perilous conflicts if under-leaders and under-shepherds will do their appointed work and listen to the voice saying, “They that follow me shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] What a comfort should this promise be to us all that we can walk in the light as He is in the light. Let the men to whom He has entrusted great responsibilities be assured that they are following their appointed leader, Jesus Christ, and that they are not under the impulse of their own natural temperaments.
Our only safety is in looking unto Jesus with consecrated heart, earnestly longing to work out His plans. There are many kinds of light which men follow, but there is one Light which may direct their steps in perfect safety. Be sure that we are following Jesus whithersoever He goeth. Let none run ahead of Christ, but wait patiently for the word of command, “Follow Me.” Let them be distrustful of their own counsel, their own ambitious fancies, supposing that this is the true Light, and they find after a time that they have not been following the heavenly Guiding Star, but an uncertain meteor.
Satan is nigh with all the strength of his powers, putting forth masterly deceptive delusions to bring to pass acts that are not in accordance with God’s will, and let not those who believe the truth give occasion which will be used to vindicate the opposition and strivings and misrepresentations which Satan has set in operation to oppose the advance of truth. For the sake of Jesus Christ, let every worker put forth his efforts in such a way that he shall not make Satan’s assertions truth, by making movements that God does not require of him. Under the heavenly generalship, we can do a great work for the Master in accordance with God’s wish, and success will mark our endeavors. Do not let anyone get in the way of the work of God. Give God a chance to do something, and to work upon human minds to lead and direct human efforts himself.
I am grieved as I see men desirous to precisely mark out the course others should pursue even in far-off lands, when if we believed this work of proclaiming the truth is of God, we must give matters more into His hands for Him to work His appointed agents, and not wanting ourselves to be masters as though everything is under the special jurisdiction of a few men in certain localities, who are finite men, and need to look to God constantly for wisdom, else they will make grave blunders. God does not design that everything shall center in Battle Creek, and the Lord would have men stand aside and not feel that the work of God depends wholly on them, and every question must be referred to them.
I know what I am talking about although it is difficult for me to express. It may seem Greek to you, but in the name of the Lord I lift the danger signal. I tell you, men need to fear and tremble for themselves, and should not feel competent to run ahead of Jesus, for He has said, “Follow me.”
God is not pleased to have men in far distant lands wait for the word from Battle Creek before they venture to make a move. God has the ordering of His work. Let us believe in His power to guide. He will give wisdom and understanding to His representative men in the localities of His great moral vineyard. “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you that ye should go and bring forth fruit.” [John 15:16.] I have to say to my brethren in Battle Creek, The Lord does not have to send His orders and His message, which He gives to His messengers in all parts of His world, around through Battle Creek, to be sent to different workers in the regions beyond. And the Lord does not lay every responsibility upon all those who assume this, to say, Do this, and, Thou shalt not do that. When men are educated to look to Battle Creek so largely, God is dishonored.
Christ breathed upon His disciples upon one occasion, and said, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” [John 20:22.] Christ is represented by His Holy Spirit today in every part of His great moral vineyard. He will give the inspiration of His Holy Spirit to all those who are of a contrite spirit. Let there be more dependence upon the Holy Spirit’s efficiency and far less dependence upon human agencies. I am sorry to say some at least have not evidenced that they have learned the special lesson of meekness and lowliness in the school of Christ. They have not an abiding Christ, and have not a vital connection with Christ. Therefore they cannot be inspired with the wisdom of Christ in counsel through the transfusion of His Holy Spirit.
Then I ask you, How can the judgment of these men be considered faultless? They may be in responsible positions, but living a divided life from Christ. They do not learn daily of Christ. They have not the mind of Christ. Yet these very men are in some cases trusted in and relied upon, and [their] counsel is considered to be as the wisdom of God.
The Lord Jesus, living through the faculties of the consecrated human agent, will act through their organs, and they will depend on and choose His will, and will conform to His character. All selfish pride, all superiority, all arbitrary exactions will be put away, for they will have the meekness and lowliness of Christ. It is no more themselves that live and act, but Christ liveth in them, while these precious words will be understood in the prayer of our Saviour, “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent me, and lovest them as Thou hast loved me.” [John 17:23.] The eternal Father is Himself waiting for every individual soul to look less to the finite, and depend less in men who are counselors, but who evidence that themselves have not a knowledge of the grace of Christ and the truth as it is in Jesus.
The living human agencies, co-operating with God, will have humble opinions of themselves. They will not be boastful, self-sufficient, self-exalted. They will be long-suffering, kind, and full of mercy and good fruits. They will place human ambition in the background. The righteousness of Christ will go before them; the glory of the Lord will be their rereward. For Christ’s sake I beg of you to consider; there can now be no hasty, rash expressions falling from our lips, no extravagant language used, nothing uttered that shall savor of railing. That is all human. Christ takes no part in it.
Let the ready writers be careful how they use their pens to reflect upon or ridicule the position of unbelievers or believers. Our only safety is in keeping the true humble spirit of Christ, and making straight paths for our feet lest the lame be turned out of the way. The meekness and lowliness of Christ must positively take possession of the soul. In councils for the advancement of the work, the process pursued of investigation will often be an exhaustive one; but ever bear in mind, not one individual is to be a controlling power, a voice for the whole, unless that whole shall have counseled and decided that matter.
The relative merit of positions advanced by pen or voice is not to be [decided] with a rush, but carefully consider every method and plan, that minds may become intelligently acquainted with the merits of the missionary work that is to be done in all parts [of the world] that seem to open before us. It will be well that the difficulties to enter a certain path, which seem to be forbidding, be considered, while on the other hand duty seems to demand it. In some cases, committees of counsel should let the people of God, as far as possible, understand you mean to have them know your plans and have the judgment of the church to sustain your efforts.
The church members have, many of them, the blessing of prudence, and excellent qualities of mind, and their wisdom is to be called out, and to be exercised, and others of the church will become aware of their own ignorance in reference to the great questions to be considered. Right impressions will be made upon their minds, and awaken many to feel that they must have a deeper insight and knowledge of the work. They are convicted that they are far behind, but they are to seek God most earnestly [for Him] to help with His wisdom. His mercy seat is never sought in vain. We have now to settle in in earnest to seek for wisdom from above while we intently study how much is at stake—souls perishing for the Word of life, the kingdom of Christ to be extended. There are men and women of the noblest minds who will be added to the number of those of whom it will be said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you that ye go forth and bear fruit.” [John 15:16.]
A question of great importance which has from the first of our mission work perplexed the missionary workers is, How can we secure funds adequate to the support of the missionary enterprises in the new fields which Providence now opens before us? The work is to be widely extended. Every unnecessary utilizing of means should be avoided. Convenience is not to be studied, but positive necessities, in order to raise the standard of truth in new territories. Seek God. Believe in Him who has infinite resources. If we move wisely, putting our every ability in the work, the good hand of God will be upon us. We must be more anxious to lay hold and push the work, than to see the money in the treasury before we undertake the work. God forbid that the opening providences of God should summons us to enter upon the widening and whitening fields already for the harvest, and the backward movement is made to the call, saying, Our treasury is exhausted, we have no means for enlarging or scarcely sustaining the workers in the fields already opened.
We thank God that the little rivulets opened in our Sabbath schools have given an earnest energy to the children and youth to help supply the stream of beneficence to advance many a precious enterprise. There is much children can be educated to do in missionary lines which will create in their minds and characters a growth of unselfish acts which Heaven rejoices to see. These young missionaries are being trained to understand how to work when the dew of youth is upon them, and do service to Jesus Christ. Here is taught self-denial. Every territory nigh and afar off are the Lord’s. The World is His, and although usurpers have come in to take possession of God’s earthly property, God will work to make a way for truth to be presented in the dark corners of the earth.
If men will only follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit of God, they will find ways and means to work for the salvation of souls in every part of God’s great moral vineyard, for the message of warning is to go forth, and the third angel’s message will go forward to a glorious victory. All God’s servants who will live in obedience to God’s requirements, speaking in all humility of mind to those who know not the truth, will carry an influence with them which will work for the salvation of many souls. We must not allow the people to hang helplessly upon us. We are human and finite. We must direct them to Jesus Christ as did John, saying, “Behold the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.]
Those who are in far distant lands need to move every hour in humble dependence upon the Captain of our salvation, for through the intercession of Christ our Advocate, many souls will be saved unto eternal life, and Jesus pleads the case of His co-laborers. He has provided that the Holy Spirit shall descend upon His workers, and every sincere seeker after God shall find Him. Let everyone seek the footstool of mercy. What encouragement is given to come boldly to the throne of grace! We are to believe that the Lord hears, that He answers our prayers. In no case let us dishonor Him by placing man in God’s position as a guide and counselor.
We have a great High Priest who has passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God. He says, I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter that He may abide with you forever. [John 14:16.] His dwelling place is in every location where there are those who are seeking with consecrated hearts to do His work in that special locality. Every country has its own education and peculiar distinction of character, and it requires wise men to know how to adapt themselves to the peculiar ideas of the people, and introduce the germ of truth, and do them the good that is their privilege. Their necessities and wants must be met and handled with all wisdom.
Providences and possibilities will arise demanding immediate action, and those handling these interests are to be dependent upon the Holy Spirit of God to guide them as faithful shepherds of the flock. Should they wait, in a crisis, for the voice and dictation to come from Battle Creek, they might lose much. The men handling the work should be faithful stewards of the grace of God. They should be men of faith, and should be encouraged to look to God and trust in God. Chapter six of Isaiah has a deep and important lesson for every one of God’s workmen. Let them study this with deep interest and humility and most earnest prayer. The first and second chapters of Ezekiel should be carefully studied.
The representation of the wheels and all connected with this divine symbol was inexplainable and intricate, and seemed to the prophet of God a mass of confusion, in the wheels and the appearances of human beings connected with them. But a hand of infinite wisdom is seen at work among the machinery, and perfect order in response to that hand is brought out of the confusion, and every wheel is working in its true order in perfect harmony with every part of the grand center.
I have had matters presented to me that individual human instrumentalities desire too much power and control and to dictate themselves. The Lord God, the mighty Worker, is left altogether too much out of the methods and planning and movements in the advancement of His work and of His workmen. No living man should fancy himself able to manage those things which belong to the control of the great I AM. God in His providence is preparing the way for a work to be done by the living human agency. Let every man stand at his post of duty, acting his part in the living interest for this time, and know that God is [his] instructor.
In the taking of Jericho the Lord God of hosts was the Mighty General of armies to command the plan of battle both for the heavenly and human agencies in such a way that not one human hand should be set to take down the walls of Jericho, lest man should take credit to himself of achieving victories when God was the One to be glorified. So it shall be in the work in which we engage. No glory is to be given to human agencies, but the Lord God alone is to be magnified. Please read carefully the third chapter of Ezekiel. The Lord God must be our entire dependence and trust. Ever bear in mind also: the Lord God of Israel has need of every agency that holds the truth in righteousness; as human living agents we are to stand in full view of the cross of Calvary, and raise our voice in earnest proclamation and invitation, “Behold the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.]
The third angel’s message is to be voiced by the living human agent. It is to go forth with great power and glory.
When men shall cease to trust in man, and shall make God their efficiency, then they will have far more confidence in their fellow laborers. We have altogether too small faith in God and too little confidence in one another. The religious liberty question is a very important subject, and requires to be treated with great wisdom and discretion, lest by mismoves there is brought about a crisis before we, as a people, are prepared for it. The burden of our message for this time is to voice the message of the third angel, “the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.]
There should be special cautions to our workmen to be careful and not create opposition, and provoke the powers that be to exact that which would limit the work in the many places where it should go. We want more of the infinite workings and far less trust in the human agents. Our work is to prepare a people to stand in the day of God’s preparation. When we shall engage the attention of any human being to fix his eye upon the cross of Calvary, and in the words of heavenly wisdom relate [that] the reason of this great sacrifice was to make it possible for man to come back to his allegiance to the holy commandments of God, the sinner will look upon Christ as the propitiation for our sins; then man may step aside, and bear in mind, and repeat it over and over to the sinner—not a propitiation for our sins alone, but for the sins of the whole world.
Encourage the human agent to look to and seek for wisdom from God in most earnest prayer, then he will learn as no human voice or human counsel can teach him the way of the Lord. He will see [how] the transgression of the law caused the price of the blood of the Son of the infinite God to redeem him. He will hate the sins that wounded Jesus. He will preserve a contrite heart as he views Jesus as a compassionate tender High Priest. Please read Ephesians the second and third chapters. Here is a lesson for us all to study. Philippians 2:1-16; Colossians 1:25-29; Hebrews 2:17, 18. This whole chapter is of great importance.
There should be the greatest wisdom used that nothing be said to provoke the armies of Satan and all his united confederacy of evil, that they be set in operation as agencies leagued with deceived, deluded human agencies, by bringing against them railing accusations, for Christ has not ventured to do this. And who was Jesus? He was the only begotten Son of the Infinite. He was the High Commander in the heavenly courts. Isaiah declares Him, “Unto us a child is born; unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulders; He shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6.]
Let finite man consider that [that] which Christ did not venture to do will men undertake. The holy record states the Prince of Peace does not bring against Satan a railing accusation, although He had every chance and abundance of material, but He did not do it. [Jude 9.] Will speakers and writers who know these facts, who are acquainted with these grand truths concerning Christ’s dealing with the powers of darkness learn the lessons they ought to have learned much earlier in their experience—to wear Christ’s yoke, to practice the humility of Christ, “Learn of me,” says the Great Teacher. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] (I am not boastful, I hide my glory,) for I am meek and lowly of heart. In learning of me ye shall find rest to your souls. Sanctified tongues, sanctified pens will do a work that will lead to repentance, and that will not need to be repented of.
Much more of the meekness of Christ will need to be cultivated, and will be a savor of life unto life. Do not open the way for the enemy to do his work, thereby helping him to bring in all his oppressive powers which we are not ready for. We all need to be daily subdued and softened and refined by the Holy Spirit, molding our characters, ever bearing in mind we are not to mold the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit is to mold and fashion the thoughts of the mind, that they shall be brought into captivity to Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit’s working power will overcome our unconsecrated and self-exalted defects, and will find us, like Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus and learning humility of Him.
We need the sanctification of the Holy Spirit every hour of the day, lest we shall be taken in some snare which will imperil our souls. There is such a temptation to the exalting of self that we must watch against this evil. We need to constantly guard ourselves that we shall not exercise toward one another a spirit of overbearance, of criticism, and of condemnation. We must shun strenuously every appearance of evil and the revealing of attributes that Satan manifests to dishearten and to discourage. Our work is to draw in the same lines with Christ, to build up and not to tear down.
The masterly spirit which is natural with some, to control, to be sharp and dictatorial, comes under the lording over God’s heritage, and has lost to our cause precious souls. This is because the finite human agent was not in connection with God. Those who occupy a position of important stewardship which has brought them in connection with the souls for whom Christ has died, precious in the sight of the Lord, should be precious to all who have connection with them, corresponding with the estimate in which God regards them. Many have been treated in a harsh manner, according to the disposition of men, and not according to the mind and spirit which dwelt in Jesus Christ. His Word declares, “All ye are brethren” [Matthew 23:8], and the consideration is never to be absent from the mind, we must all meet these again with whom we associate around the judgment seat of Christ. Then God and not men will be the Judge of all. He will deal justly with the cases of every individual.
“I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God, and the books were opened, and another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books according to their works.” [Revelation 20:12.] Would it not be well for all who profess the name of Christ, and especially for those who are in responsible positions who can do a great deal of hurting and wounding and bruising by their works and their decisions, of human souls whom Christ has died to save, [to] consider that they must meet every act of injustice again, when their words, which were calculated to hurt and to destroy, will not be pleasant to review.
What a revelation will each man have to review in the great day of final retribution! Every act with the spirit that prompted it, will be seen in its true character and its true bearing, and the fruit of every selfish arbitrary exaction will be seen as plain as the sun at noonday; the burden of the words, and the results upon the precious souls, will be seen as God sees it. These precious souls might have been saved had they not been turned out of the right path by being dealt with in an un-Christlike manner. Let every one repent before God, for we are now living in the great day of atonement when every soul should be confessing [his] sins and afflicting [his] soul before God, and resting by living faith upon the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour.
Will my brethren and sisters ever bear in mind that they are not to act out their natural traits of character in dealing with God’s heritage? They are Christ’s property, His own purchased possession, and what a price He has paid for them! Shall any aid the great enemy of God and man to discourage and destroy souls, helping Satan in his work to overcome them to their ruin? What will be the retribution brought upon them for thus doing? We are in great need to weed from our conversation all severity and harsh words. We are not to indulge in condemning, because our feelings prompt us to do these things. We are to be one with Christ.
We are to represent Christ in all our dealings with our fellow men; we are all to labor with our God-given powers to dispel questioning doubts in the minds of the tempted. We are not to encourage them to sow the seeds of doubt and unbelief which will spring up and bear its baleful fruit. We are children of God, to be learners of Jesus Christ first, then to practice His methods and reveal His Spirit.
“Let that mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Philippians 2:5.] You are to educate yourself to believe in all the Word of God which are being wonderfully and gloriously fulfilled. Our doubts will vanish before true discernment, and the doubts of others will be dispelled through the assurance of faith.
It is our privilege to see Jesus as He is, full of compassion, amiable, courteous, divinely polite, full of goodness and mercy and forgiveness of our sins. “Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining unto God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people, for in that he himself suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:17, 18.]
Let gratitude and heavenly love be encouraged in our souls, and practiced because we are looking unto and beholding Jesus, and being transformed into His image. What is the fruit of this? Confidence, hope, patience, and courage is constantly increasing in our hearts, as Christ represented to the woman of Samaria; “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith unto thee, Give me to drink, thou wouldst have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. … Whosoever shall drink of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him will be in him a well of water springing up unto everlasting life.” [John 4:10, 14.] This life represents the life of Christ, and every soul may enter into it, and may have a living connection with God. Blessed, humble, grateful confidence becomes an abiding principle. The soul is drawn out in contemplation of Christ’s character who first loved us. Unbelieving fears are swept away before living, trusting faith. We can in truthfulness say from a living, rich experience, “if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost.” [2 Corinthians 4:3.]
Viewing Christ, contemplating His matchless love for us, [how] in taking upon Himself our nature He demonstrated to the worlds unfallen, to all the universe of heaven, and to fallen humanity, the character of the Lord God, [we see] the truth as it is in Jesus. The Lord Jesus demonstrated that humanity depending wholly upon the divine nature could, through the moral power given to humanity, keep God’s commandments and live, and His law as the apple of the eye. All humanity can obey God. The wonderful perceptions of man are not dependent upon man, upon riches, upon earthly wisdom or learning. The Lord God of heaven quickens the perceptions of all who will inquire and come, that they may understand perfectly the way of life. The true Light of heaven is shining into all places from the throne of God.
Christ said, “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me.” [John 12:32.] The Spirit of Christ is drawing all men, and the gracious invitation goes forth to all. The knowledge of God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent is life and salvation to all who respond to it. Peter writes, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ our Lord according as His divine power has given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who hath called us to glory and virtue, whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature (as was Jesus Christ when humanity was upon Him) having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:2-4.]
It is the privilege of every human being on the face of the earth, if they will seek God with all the heart, to find Him. When the heart of the co-laborer with Jesus Christ in humility and in love presses the truth home to the sinner’s heart, it is the voice of God speaking through the human instrumentality, the heavenly intelligences working with the human consecrated agent, and he indeed becomes a partaker of the divine nature. The true light shineth. The Spirit operates divinely upon the soul. Directly from God comes the efficiency to believe, if the human agent will accept of evidence. The gracious influence of the Holy Spirit produces in the mind the likeness of Christ, the oneness of purpose with Christ. In all his works there is an intense and increasing longing affection for Christ.
There is a soul-hunger for His righteousness, to be like Christ in character, and by beholding Jesus, by contemplating His character, he is changed from glory to glory, from character to character, in likeness to the object his eyes and his face are fastened upon. The soul is imbued with the love of Christ, and becomes one with Him in His deep unresting love for perishing souls; and Christ is being formed within, the hope of glory. Christ lives in and works through the living human instrumentality, and [he], through receiving Christ by faith, become one with Him.
“To them that receive him gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] This is the great privilege of the people of God everywhere, in all places, and God has been and continues speaking to our people who believe that they shall not corrupt their simplicity, or their faith and perfect trust in God by sinking their individuality in any finite person, whatever their calling or profession.
Lt 64, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
“Norfolk Villa,” Prospect St., Granville, Australia
June 20, 1895
Dear Brother:
In behalf of Australia and New Zealand I feel it to be my duty to address you, that you may talk with our brethren in regard to sending men around the world in such haste that money to transport them is almost lost. If there is sufficient reason for our brethren to go long journeys, which means the expending of large monies, then do not plan to keep them the largest share of their time on steamer and cars, giving them such short periods of rest that they are not in the most favorable condition to obtain the necessary intelligence in regard to the country and its possibilities and probabilities, and the working of the cause.
I plead for time, that the messengers who visit foreign fields shall not take in such a large territory that they cannot obtain a correct idea of the countries that they visit. That which is of large moment to them is to take time to move with that moderation, that they shall not have a fever of excitement, and [shall be] able to see the individuality of each locality that it is thought essential to visit. The traveling messenger must take time to rest, time to be hospitable and entertained; and advantages must be given him to learn the bearings of the field, if it is to be of any real advantage to him. To see some of the churches that have been raised up, and then have no time to converse fully in regard to the different points, would be a mistake.
When it was decided that we should go to Europe, it was arranged that we should remain three months; but the light was given to me that a few months would be time and money spent to very little purpose. We would obtain by this rapid traveling a confused surface idea, but could not possibly obtain a correct, intelligent knowledge of the field—the Lord’s domain, His vineyard—and nothing would stand out distinct or be appreciated. We would judge altogether too much after the rapid glance of the eye, and the impression made upon the senses would be very much in accordance with our physical and mental condition.
The visits of Brethren Butler and Haskell and others to Europe, who rapidly passed through so many places, left but little impression upon the people, and they received but very dim, imperfect ideas themselves. It was not wise calculation to rush from place to place, and not be qualified by their brief visit to communicate a store of knowledge that would be of such value that others would not be required to go over the same ground in a short time. The money thus absorbed in making such rapid visits had better be used in supporting an intelligent missionary in the field one, two, or three years, as the providence of God may appoint. If he is the messenger of God, he will himself understand by the presentation of the field the duration of his stay, and will work, not for his own interests, but for the interests of the people. The conference may send a man a long journey, but it has no right to bid him come or go here and there when in this new country. The man must be guided by the light he receives from God when in these distant fields. It is his duty to think for himself. He must have time to study how he can make his stay the most profitable, and to take notes of the situation. His heart must be open to the impressions of the Holy Spirit so that he can obtain that evidence of the situation that God alone is able to impart. No man is able to mark and define the duty of his fellow man. Information and light may be imparted by counseling together, but God is the Great Teacher of each one, and will instruct and guide. He has said, “The meek will he guide in judgment, the meek will he teach his way.” [Psalm 25:9.]
I have much to write on this important matter, but this letter must go very soon, so I cannot complete all I wish to write. The direction or privilege was given to us to go to Europe and remain three months. I said, “I have light; if I go to Europe, I must make no flying visit, but stay long enough to take in the situation. The people will be strange to me, and I to them. It will take time for them to get any benefit from our visit.” We remained two years in Europe, and it was none too long. The Lord worked through His instruments, and we were fitted to communicate to others, to some purpose, the knowledge we obtained of the field and how it should be worked. The principles then laid out before me have ever been a help to me, and a means of my helping others.
I beg of the conference not to make child’s play of sending men around the world in such speed, for our finite minds are not able to comprehend everything in a moment of time. If Brother Prescott comes to California, give him some time to remain before he leaves for another place. If he is compelled to be brief, let him go only to those places where he can stay long enough to understand them.
Brother Olsen, you know of the things whereof I speak, and can see the reason of my request. Give your messengers time to look for themselves. Bear in mind that the messengers of God are not to go forth bitted and bridled. God does not do any of this compelling work, and He does not want that men should do it. He has promised to give us grace and strength if we will ask for it.
We are very much pleased that Professor Prescott and his wife are coming out here, and we want them to take time to get refreshed, rested, and renewed before they start on their long sea voyage. Our Lord is no despot. He would have us pursue a course which will preserve health, and He wants us to get understanding knowledge every step that we go, that we may have an insight into matters and things. If there is no power and understanding in the individual to guide and control himself under the grace of God, then there is no power of understanding or knowledge in councils that will give him self-control. I write this little, but there is much to this matter that may be written. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Lt 64a, 1895
Olsen, Brother and Sister [O. A.]
Avondale, Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia
September 1, 1895, 2:30 a.m.
Dear Brother and Sister Olsen:
Through constant labor in speaking and writing, my brain has become so weary that it refused to work longer, and for rest and change I came to this place. I have been enjoying tent life for four weeks. Brother Prescott and Willie made us a call, staying nearly three days. I had a short visit with Brother Prescott while riding in my carriage. I told him somewhat of the burden on my mind, of which Willie had not before heard from my lips; for what could he do with the things I could open before him? Simply nothing. He is called here and there, into this council and that council, and the amount of writing that he has to do is very great. It would not be wise for me to open matters to him which he has no power to change or relieve. His work is an important one, and I feel it no duty to crowd in matters which he has neither time to consider nor power to help.
Brother Prescott laid out before me the plans for meetings to be held for weeks in different places among those who know the truth. Doubtless some who have newly come to the faith would be benefited, but I know you are not on the right track. Some of those called together will no doubt have their faith strengthened and confirmed; but this work is not bearing the message of warning to those who are still in darkness and error, who know not the truth. Time is passing, the perils of the last days are upon us, and how many will say to us in the last great day, when every man shall receive according to his works, “Why have you not warned us? You have not told us those things that we should have known.”
Christ says, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.] Let our ministers go forth weighted with the solemn message of warning. When men have had every advantage to obtain a knowledge of the truth how shall plans be laid to keep our laborers from the work of saving souls in the darkness of error? The time is short. Let the message of warning be given, clear and distinct. The Lord is coming to execute judgment upon all who obey not the gospel.
Enoch in his day sounded the proclamation of the coming of Christ, and the execution of judgment upon the unrighteous; and we now see the fulfillment of Enoch’s prophecy concerning the great wickedness that should abound. But those who have the light are the very ones commissioned of God to make constant, aggressive warfare. As the inquiry shall be made, “Watchman, what of the night?” The faithful message is to be heard in response, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” [Isaiah 21:11, 12.] The influence of truth is too much restricted. Let men who know the truth be urged to communicate truth to those in darkness. Many are satisfied with a view of truth, but they have not yet stepped into their place to communicate that which they have received.
God has let men feel the power of truth, but they are not all doing their appointed work in seeking to save that which was lost. Everyone is to have the armor on, prepared to win others to obedience of the law of God. I see so much given to those who already have. These wonderful meetings for those who wish to get more strength are depriving the world of the very work that should be done. Our ministers should now be working for the saving of the lost. The weeks spent in gatherings to fit men for work might better, far better, be spent in going to the highways and the hedges with the proclamation, “Come, for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.]
To those who obey the light they have, illumination will come from on high, for the heavenly messengers are waiting to co-operate with men in warning a deceived, sinful world. When the people of God engage in this work with real travail of soul, there will be manifest a decided change in cities and villages. This hovering about churches to keep them propped up makes them more dependent on human effort. They learn to lean on the experience of their fellow men, and do not make God their dependence and their efficiency. It is time that cities and villages everywhere were hearing the solemn note of warning, “Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” [Revelation 1:7.] Get ready, that you may be found of Him in peace.
I entreat you whom God has favored with a knowledge of the truth, Go to work; there is work to do everywhere. The fields are all white unto the harvest. Sowers and reapers are needed just now. The time you devote to imparting constantly to those who understand the message of warning will not give one tithe of the strength which they would receive in taking hold of the work to communicate light to save perishing souls. Angels are waiting to bless the consecrated workers. The parable of the lost sheep should be a lesson to every soul who has been rescued from the snare of Satan. We are not to hover over the ninety and nine, but to go forth to save the lost, hunting them up in the wilderness of the large cities and towns. In this work the laborers will be led to feel their weakness, and they will flee to the stronghold. The divine presence will be with them to give strength and courage and faith and hope. The truehearted workers will be laborers together with God.
The warnings that Christ gave to Jerusalem were not to end with them. The judgments upon Jerusalem were a symbol of the events of Christ’s coming to judgment in the last day, when before Him shall be gathered all nations. “He shall send forth his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather his elect, from one end of heaven to the other.” [Matthew 24:31.]
Every true follower of Christ has a work to do. God has given to every man his work. A few are now pointing to the roll of fast fulfilling prophecy, and proclaiming, Get ready, show your obedience to God by keeping His commandments. This is no time for the messengers of God to stop to prop up those who know the truth, and who have every advantage. Let them go on to lift the standard and give the warning, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! go ye out to meet him.” [Matthew 25:6.] Many who hear the message—by far the greatest number—will not credit the solemn warning. Many will be found disloyal to the commandments of God, which are a test of character. The Lord’s servants will be called enthusiasts. Ministers will warn the people not to listen to them. Noah received the same treatment while the Spirit of God was urging him to give the message, whether men would hear, or whether they would forbear.
Come when it may, the advent of Christ will surprise the false teachers, who are saying, Peace and safety; all things continue as they were from the beginning. Thus saith the Word of inspiration, “Sudden destruction cometh upon them.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] The day of God shall come as a snare upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. It comes to them as a prowling thief. “If the good man of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.” [Matthew 24:43.] Habitual watching is our only safety. We must be ever ready, that that day may not overtake us as a thief.
Let everyone who loves God consider that now, while it is day, is the time to work, not among the sheep already in the fold, but to go out in search of the lost and perishing ones. These need to have special help to bring them back to the fold. Now is the time for the careless to arouse from their slumber. Now is the time to entreat that souls shall not only hear the Word of God, but without delay secure oil in their vessels with their lamps. That oil is the righteousness of Christ. It represents character, and character is not transferable. No man can secure it for another. Each must obtain for himself a character purified from every stain of sin.
The Lord is coming in power and great glory. It will then be His work to make a complete separation between the righteous and the wicked. But the oil cannot then be transferred to the vessels of those who have it not. Then shall be fulfilled the words of Christ, “Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left.” [Luke 17:35, 36.] The righteous and the wicked are to associate together in the work of life. But the Lord reads the character, He discerns who are obedient children, who respect and love His commandments.
The looker-on may discern no difference, but there is One who said that the tares were not to be plucked up by human hands, lest the wheat be rooted up also. Let both grow together until the harvest. Then the Lord sends forth His reapers to gather out the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn, while the wheat is gathered into the heavenly garner. The time of the judgment is a most solemn period, when the Lord gathers His own from among the tares. Those who have been members of the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. “They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” [Malachi 3:17.]
Those who have been obedient to God’s commandments will unite with the company of the saints in light; they shall enter in through the gates into the city, and have right to the tree of life. The one shall be taken. His name shall stand in the book of life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God.
The tares and wheat are now commingled, but then the one hand that alone can separate them will give to everyone his true position. Those who have had the light of truth and heard the warning message, heard the invitation to the marriage supper,—farmer, merchant, lawyer, false shepherds who have quieted the convictions of the people, unfaithful watchmen who have not sounded the warning or known the time of night—all who have refused obedience to the laws of the kingdom of God, will have no right therein. Those who have sought an excuse to avoid the cross of separation from the world will, with the world, be taken in the snare. They mingled with the tares from choice. Like drew to like in transgression. It is a fearful assimilation. Men choose to stand with the first rebel, who tempted Adam and Eve in Eden to disobey God. The tares multiply themselves, for they sow tares, and they have their part with the root of all sin—the devil.
Upon those who keep the commandments of God the benediction is pronounced, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.] They are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people;” that they should show forth the praises of Him who hath called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. [1 Peter 2:9.] The obedient are called the just; they are drawn to the holy Magnet, Jesus Christ! The holy attracts the holy. He that is unjust will be unjust still. Character cannot then be made or transformed. The oil of grace cannot be lent by one to another, neither have the foolish virgins time to buy oil for themselves. The righteous are those who keep the commandments of God, and they will be forever separated from the disobedient and unrighteous, who trample under foot the law of God. The pure ore and the dross will no longer commingle.
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household?” [Matthew 24:45.] Can we answer? Am I the steward, faithful to the sacred trust which is committed to me? To every man is given an individual responsibility. The watchmen have their specific work, to discern the approach of danger and sound the note of warning. The soldiers of the cross of Jesus Christ are to have ears keen to hear. In their position of responsibility they are to give the trumpet a certain sound, that everyone may gird on the armor for action.
What work are we individually doing for the Master? Who are unfolding the truth to those who are in the darkness of error? Who are holding forth the words of life? The enemies of Christ are many, who, while they claim to be righteous, have not the righteousness of Christ. They disguise themselves as angels of light, but they are ministers of sin. This fact should be sufficient to stir every soul to action. Who are faithful stewards of the grace of Christ? Who are making wise division of labor, calling into active service every soul that has an intelligent knowledge of the truth, and giving to all a work to do?
The outposts are to be kept guarded. There are to be men to hold the fort, while the advancing forces are engaged in active warfare. To every man is given his work. We are not to echo the words of those in error, but to inculcate ideas of truth. Our work is to benefit our fellow men. We are not to travel over the track of opponents to the truth, but to sound the message of the third angel who is flying in the midst of heaven, proclaiming the note of warning, the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.
Those who are do-nothings now will have the superscription upon them, “Weighed in the balance, and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.] They knew their Master’s will, but did it not. They had the light of truth, they had every advantage, but chose their own selfish interests, and they will be left with those whom they did not try to save. “But, and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow-servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Matthew 24:48-51.]
Let there be an earnest consideration of these words. Let none say, “That does not mean me: I am a Christian.” Who says this? yourself, or He who reads the heart? The unfaithful servant had solemn responsibilities entrusted to him; before the world he appeared as a servant of Christ, but O, how deplorable for himself, and for all connected with him, he is an evil servant. He is imperiling his Lord’s goods. He is teaching souls to trample upon the holy law of God. He calls Christ, My Lord. But he says, “My lord delayeth his coming.” [Verse 48.] He does not say that Christ will not come; he does not scoff at the idea of His second coming; but he tells the people that His coming is delayed.
He is removing from the minds of others the conviction that the Lord is coming quickly. His influence leads men to presumptuous, careless delay. Thus they are off their watch, and they echo the words of the unfaithful watcher; still others catch them up, and the evil spreads, and men are confirmed in their worldliness and stupor. Their course is downward, not upward; they are not looking for and hasting unto the day of God. Earthly passions, corrupt thoughts, take possession of the mind.
The evil servant smites his fellow servants who are striving to do the will of his Lord. He eats and drinks with the drunken, those who are carnally minded, notwithstanding their profession of Christianity. They are opposed to Christ and the work He came to our world to do, which was to live the law of God in humanity, to be an example to all humanity.
Christ was surrounded by His disciples, and a vast congregation was listening to His words when He said, “Take heed to yourselves lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness and the cares of this life, and that day come upon you unawares.” “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” [Luke 21:34; 1 Corinthians 10:12.]
Dear Brother Olsen, I have received from Dr. Kellogg a letter of inquiry in reference to the building of a chapel for the sanitarium. I have written him that this proposition appears to me consistent; years ago I was shown that such a building should be erected. The teaching in the Tabernacle is often too strong for babes. It is such advanced truth as is appropriate for those who have progressed step by step, but is not suited to those who have not a knowledge of the truth. The doctrinal discourses are not of a character to melt and subdue the heart. These souls need to be taught of Jesus Christ and Him crucified, of the sanctification of soul, body, and spirit, of the amazing love of God. In the simplicity and meekness and lowliness of Christ let the Word be spoken.
The seekers after truth will inquire to know the reasons of our faith; they will desire that lessons be given upon the Sabbath question, and then the truth can be unfolded to them gradually as they are able to bear it. All who have a knowledge of the truth should realize their responsibility, and be exceedingly careful to make straight paths for their own feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way.
The very fact of having a church in connection with the sanitarium will give character to our work. It will be a testimony that we are seeking the eternal good of all who are brought within the sphere of our influence. The sanitarium presents a vineyard to be worked, it is God’s vineyard, and it needs consecrated ability.
Let not Pharisaism prevail. There are plenty of subjects to dwell upon to win hearts, and wisdom should be exercised by every teacher. All should remember that they are addressing people who have no knowledge of the third angel’s message. It is Greek to them. Let those who have any part in connection with the sanitarium speak and act circumspectly.
“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; withal prayer also for us, that God will open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” [Colossians 4:2-6.]
Precious, precious words! Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, which has preserving qualities. Let the believers be sober, and watch unto prayer, and in everything represent Christ, that in the judgment they may meet the souls with whom they have been associated, and say, I have done for these souls all that I could do. The love of Christ dwelling in the heart will be revealed in the spirit and temper. The heavenly, sanctifying power can be indeed a savor of life unto life, quelling every tumultuous passion, and winning souls to Christ.
O that love, the love of Jesus, might well up in the soul like a stream in the desert, refreshing all, and winning many to the cross of Calvary! “And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” [Isaiah 58:11.] Let those who make the outlay of means to build a house for God have proportionate zeal in winning souls to know God and Jesus Christ, whom He hath sent.
Brother Olsen, we should give much more labor to the souls that are not of Christ, the souls that have not the truth. Can we not consider that all who are disloyal to God and who are transgressing His holy laws shall have no place in the paradise of God? How earnest should be the human agent that the truth in all its purity shall be proclaimed in cities, in villages, from the rivers to the ends of the earth. God help His people to awake, and give the trumpet a certain sound.
Lt 65, 1895
Olsen, O. A.
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, Australia
June 19, 1895
Dear Bro. Olsen:
I wish to speak to you in confidence, as a mother would speak with her son. I fear and tremble for you. I know that in your councils you are in danger of acquiescing in the schemes that come from mistaken judgment. If the Lord is in the midst of your councils, beholding your order and love and fear, and your trembling at His word, then you are prepared to do His work unselfishly; but He will not be in partnership with any unjust transaction.
After I gave you that matter in regard to the workings of the Office (just before I left Battle Creek), how long was it before the men whom it reproved and warned were called together to become acquainted with the message God had given them? Months after I had committed to your trust these words which God had given, you wrote to me that you had not yet called the parties together to read to them these important reproofs, cautions, and warnings. If I had then had a thought that the matter would be thus neglected under any consideration, I would have placed it before them myself. How much of the after working of selfishness, how much of the working out of wrong principles, might have been saved, the Lord alone will reveal at the right time.
My brother whom I love in the Lord, it is not safe for you to link up so closely with men who you know are not in living connection with God. When I learned of these men, especially Captain Eldridge and A. R. Henry, being depended on and called to go to California and other localities, I knew that blindness in part had happened unto Israel. And now since Capt. Eldridge and Frank Belden are disconnected from the Office, the situation in many respects is not relieved. In your councils in connection with men who you know are not standing in the clear light, how can you feel safe to enter into the confederation of the publishing work? You must know that this means the placing of more power in the hands of these men and bringing every other institution into subordination, to be molded by the principles which control at Battle Creek.
When you are fully awake to these things, you will see and know that the reproof of God has for years been upon these responsible men, yet they have not humbled their hearts, neither have they been converted, nor have they confessed where they have resisted the messages God has been giving to His people. They have shown contempt for both the messenger and the message, from the time Elders Jones and Waggoner were given a special message for these last days. Have you heard any confession from the lips of A. R. Henry? Have you heard any acknowledgment of his wrong course in resisting light and the messages God sends? Capt. Eldridge and Frank Belden have both confessed their wrongs. D. T. Jones, when separated from the influence of these men who have resisted the light, confessed his wrong in resisting the Spirit of God. Have you any real evidence of repentance and conversion on the part of A. R. Henry, and yet you place upon him great responsibilities?
The responsibilities and the important business that mean so much to the integrity, purity, and upbuilding of the cause of God demand that there be a wise selection of working agencies. Just as long as you hold men in office, entrusting them with the very weightiest responsibilities, and yet they are not especially led and disciplined by the Holy Spirit, you give no chance for God to work to supply the vacancies that ought to have been made long ago. Your dealing with Elder Littlejohn stands in the books of heaven, “Weighed in the balances of the sanctuary and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.] Your dealing with Frank Belden, whatever his position or merits, is alike written in the books of heaven as, “Weighed in the balances of the sanctuary, and found wanting,” by the Watcher who marked the course of the king of Babylon.
When Belshazzar’s period of probation closed, the Lord no longer protected him from the sure result of his own course of action. If a man puts his hand into the fire, it will be burned; the Lord does not work a miracle to save him. To reason as many will, that God ought to have prevented certain men from doing certain things, is fallacious reasoning. God sends warnings, entreaties, and reproofs to correct that which is wrong, to justify that which is righteous; God could in a most marked manner have prevented men from doing as they have done in your council meetings, for He can destroy and make alive. But He leaves men free to choose their own course of action. A man may throw himself over a precipice or into the dark waters of the sea, and God does not work a miracle to prevent it. God did not draw back the arm of Adam, and by physical restraint make it impossible for him to take the forbidden fruit. The Lord says, Thou shalt not do this wrong; if man chooses to give his will to Satan to do that wrong, the sin and its results lie at his own door.
The working of matters in Battle Creek is in some things out of God’s order, and if left to continue, will result in making all things spotted, stained, and unacceptable to God. The Lord said to Adam, If you eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge, you will bring death and woe into the world. If you are obedient to My word, you will be happy and live forever. If you disobey, you will die. God did not originate sin, but He permitted it. According to the beneficence of His own nature, He made man as a free moral agent, to set forth the wisdom, the love and the holiness of God, and the justice of all His doings.
God proposed to take man into partnership with Himself. But if, like the inhabitants of the antediluvian world, men follow their own imagination and devising as capable of all wisdom, they will receive the result, as did the king of Babylon. They have reckoned without God, and will reap the consequences of their folly. To place in positions of responsibility men who are of a masterly, arbitrary disposition is always wrong, for their management brings the sure result.
Both Elder Littlejohn and Frank Belden—whom I mention, not as the only cases, but as representative cases, have not been treated right; they have not been treated as man should treat his fellow man. Men have been permitted to rule, whose minds are not naturally superior to the minds of these men, and their hearts were not right with God. God was not glorified by their course of action. Wrong principles were the foundation of their wrong course.
God has made men responsible beings, and placed them in circumstances favorable to obedience to His will. In the dignity of their God-given manhood, they are to be governed and controlled by God Himself, not by any human intelligence in our world. Man is ever to acknowledge that God lives and reigns; men are never to become lords over God’s heritage. They are to consider that “all ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] In the very fact that men are free moral agents, God teaches us not to be forced or compelled into any course of action, also that as responsible beings in co-partnership with God, we are to represent God in character. We are to have an interest in our brother, in our neighbor, in all around.
The well-being of our child demands that we reveal the attributes of God in our own character. The child is God’s by creation and by redemption. No evil course of action must be sanctioned in that little one; no evil example, in spirit, in word, in action, should be seen in the parents, to be reproduced in the child. So it is on a larger scale with men in sacred trust; they are not to bring their own spirit into their life, they are not to walk by the sparks of their own kindling, and act out the peevish disposition of a child because they do not possess self-control. A man in stature should be a man in the development of his God-given talents and ability to be used in the service of God. He should consider that he is not working for himself, but for the benefit of human beings around him.
If man is careless and disconnects from Jesus Christ, the source of his strength and efficiency, he works always in Satan’s lines in some way. He yields to temptation in accordance with his perverted ideas, and his course of action will be reproduced in his children, and through them in future generations. Then should not men feel the responsibility resting upon them to deal with human minds after the manner that God deals with them? The facts that God has presented in His Word should make men afraid of imparting to their offspring their own unsanctified attributes of character. It is for the interest of the children under their guardianship, that they live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present evil world.
That which in God’s dealing with us may seem to be hardship is really mercy at every step, arousing the higher nature, and causing an abhorrence of sin and injustice, and leading us to guard against selfish practices, against artifice and injustice, against every defective trait of character. If men would practice the attributes of God, they would not have the painful consciousness of transmitting wrong tendencies and traits of character to their children, to be reproduced in their children, thus communicating the evils that might have been repressed. I merely touch upon these points now, but hope to write more fully at another time.
Did the Lord counsel you to devise the various means to work and control human minds? No, I tell you, no. The case of Elder Littlejohn has been strangely mismanaged. He has appealed to me to set things right, but I have done nothing about it; it was not the time. Your course in the treatment of him was all wrong. It bears the signature of the adversary of souls. Your treatment of Frank Belden in his work was not right; it is strange fire, not the fire of God’s kindling. This kind of management must come to an end, else God will work in a way that will not be pleasing to those who have done this work. These men have not been right, they needed judicious management, but those who tried to manage them needed themselves to be managed.
Did your devising in regard to the Gospel Primer meet the approval of God? No; the principle upon which you acted was wrong. Individual service is to be rendered to God, not to be controlled by [one] man, or by any set of men. Movements have been made which mean much in their outworking. An example has been given by men who are serving where they should not be, which is leavening your conferences. The presidents of conferences are being imbued with a spirit to rule, to require men to bow to their judgment; if any refuse, the course pursued toward them is such as to fill heaven with indignation.
How can God move upon the churches to contribute their hard-earned means to be handled by men who are self-sufficient, selfish, and so arrogant and over-bearing that the frown of God is upon them? Our institutions need cleansing as did the temple when Christ was upon the earth. Man lords it over men’s consciences, man dictates to his fellow men as God. Everywhere throughout the field this spirit is leavening hearts with the same narrow and selfish purposes. Reaction must come, and who shall then set things in order? Jesus says, “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.]
The pure principles of the publishing institution have not been stoutly maintained. “Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people hath changed their glory for that which doth not profit.” (Read Jeremiah 2:11-14, 21, 22, 34.)
The principles manifest in dealing with individuals, in restricting and repressing them, are not according to the mind of the Spirit of God. The Lord will not countenance this kind of work from your hands. He will not have His work and His cause bear the mark of any man’s injustice. I repeat the warnings. Be sure that you display the religion of love, not of bigotry. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] If you continue to advance in the same course you have pursued in dealing with God’s heritage, such a condition of things will soon be produced that God will manifest the folly and unrighteousness of men.
Men in sacred office ought not to be sanctioned and upheld while they are going down to the world’s level, and dragging the banner of truth after them. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth I urge that the world’s spirit and maxims, their likings, their principles, shall not leaven the churches. Shall the principles of heaven be discarded as in the days of Noah? Shall he that departeth from evil make himself a prey to sharp, critical, designing men? In the last work, the last influence, and the last warnings [to] the world, shall we give the trumpet an uncertain sound? There is a broad, clear, deep line drawn by the eternal God between worldly policy and the unselfish, undeviating principles of justice and righteousness and equity.
God’s people are not to be treated as the servants of the conference, to be bound and released at its pleasure. God is dishonored, and it is time you called a halt. The men who live out Christ’s lessons in practical life are His co-workers. The man who acts upon worldly principles is serving another master. The two classes do not blend into one another imperceptibly like the colors of a rainbow; Christ’s likeness and Satanic attributes stand out as distinct as midnight in contrast with midday. The Christian differs from the worldling in nature, in taste, in pursuits. The words of the prophet Malachi need to be read, the warnings heeded, and the instructions practiced. From the first word to the last, this book should be our lesson sheet, in the home life, in the church, and before the world. God calls upon you, “Why halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God serve him, if Baal, then serve him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]
God will not approve or bless the authorities at Battle Creek in turning things upside down, departing from the faith once delivered to the saints. Read Malachi 3:3. The whole chapter should be studied. Please read also 1 Samuel 2:12-17. If the extortion practiced by the sons of Eli was a sin before God, how does the sin of selfish men who have accepted $30 a week for their labor stand in the sight of a holy God. Where is seen the practice of the self-denial and self-sacrifice of Christ? What example has been given at the very heart of the work at Battle Creek? Is it an example of devotion and self-sacrifice that may be safely followed by other institutions just as worthy?
God has tested men, tested their devotion, their principles. Those who have eagerly grasped all they could get, have revealed the true state of their hearts. Some have been very zealous that others who engage in the work just as earnestly as themselves shall have scarcely a chance to work in freedom with their God-given ability; all must come under the management of parties who have evidenced their willingness to have all they can possibly grasp to advantage themselves. The Lord sees all this. Does He serve with such a spirit? No, verily no. I tell you, my brethren, blindness in part has happened unto Israel. I have chapters concerning this wrong management, but I forbear.
Brother Olsen, you told me you read to the board that which I wrote in reference to your sitting and listening to resolutions that meant oppression to others, [when] you said not a word in remonstrance, thus making yourself accountable for them, sanctioning them by your silence. How can you feel that you are doing God’s service in sending unconsecrated men long journeys to do business in connection with the cause, thus virtually saying, “This is my reliable force, men I can trust, whose integrity is firm; they are just the same in principles as myself”? These men only advance the more boldly, as there are none who dare to say, “Why do ye so?” What reason have you for putting so much dependence on A. R. Henry, Leroy Nicola, and others I might name, who in a crisis will be on the wrong side? What reason have you to think that the Lord is imparting divine wisdom to men who have revealed that they have no spiritual connection with Him?
How much confidence [do] such men have that you believe the light God has been giving His people, when you make of none effect all the warnings given? Why was it that David clung to Joab, knowing that he was not a man that loved or feared God? Because Joab bound himself up with David, as a man of unswerving fidelity, ready to do just what David said! But was he the man approved of God? No. David left Solomon to do a work that he should have done himself in condemning wrongs. David said concerning Joab, He must not come with peace to the grave; and yet apparently his own life was bound up with that of Joab.
The Lord has presented these things before me in many ways. Do not, I beg of you, pursue a course that will weaken the confidence of the people in your judgment, and righteousness, and your fair, square dealings with the weakest saint upon earth.
The Lord permitted the men in the Review office to have an opportunity of manifesting what character they would develop. They have shown that they could not resist the temptation to commit robbery of God, if they had a chance, confederating to take from His treasury all they could grasp; some were ready to receive more than they did. They knew that this was unjust and dishonest. Are they as willing that others should have what is their due, because God has given them ability, tact, [and] mental capacity, equal and in advance of them? No, no; they would bring under contribution to the treasury every available talent of ability to acquire means to be employed in the advancement of the work! Their tact in this line of robbery is great. They felt authorized to accept of large remuneration of their own work, while restricting others, denying them the opportunities and means Providence had offered them to labor as His instrumentalities, to carry on His work.
God says, “I hate robbery for burnt offering.” [Isaiah 61:8.] The men who value their own souls will, by the grace of God, guard against the first tinge of unfairness in deal, the first approach to the ungodly practices of the world, the practices that prevailed in the days of Noah and Lot. The poison has been at work for a long time, and others are drinking of the cup. Wake up, Brother Olsen, Wake up!
I have had this matter presented before me: If one is moved by the Spirit of God to publish a book which is adapted to supply a need, to advance the truth, and the selfish spirit which has been manifested for years by responsible men in the publishing house shall work until the book is brought under their control, and they manage to absorb all the profits themselves, the one who prepares the book is deprived of the very thing the Lord designed he should have to do a certain work in His vineyard. This will not be the last of such devising. The beginning is not the end.
That God who gave His life for the world has instrumentalities which He will use that you and your co-laborers little suspect. When the Lord puts His hand to the work, let men keep their hands off from the ark. I have been made to suffer keenly in more ways than one from the spirit that prevailed during my stay in Battle Creek. Night after night the Lord presented before me what would be. The council meetings were not of a character to inspire confidence in some of the leading men; they seemed to be so determined and so zealous. The Lord Jesus was looking upon some of these meetings with grieved disapproval.
The same spirit that led to the course of action which was pursued toward me, has lived, and has been revealed toward others. We know that God is not pleased with your taking so great liberties to bring individuals to the terms you have decided upon in your councils. God is not working with the men who are laying their plans to gain control of everything. The Lord would have His institutions in different parts of the world stand in union with other institutions, but one is not to swallow up the others. Each is to maintain its own individuality, and the workers are to receive help from the institutions that have the largest revenue. The men who conduct matters in Battle Creek have much to learn on this point. God says, “I will have mercy, and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.]
There is a disposition to grasp everything, to destroy individuality, and ignore individual accountability; yet no compunction has thus far been aroused. A state of things is coming in after the mold of men, and not after the Lord’s order. When the truth becomes an abiding principle in the soul, then we shall see the words of the prophet fulfilled; instead of the thorn, the fir tree will spring up, instead of the brier, the myrtle; and life’s desert will blossom as the rose. [Isaiah 55:13.]
We have had an experience in the work of God. There were times when the enemy came in great power to destroy; from hour to hour the men of faith had to depend on the blessings that came from God. The great topic of interest was how to save the souls of those that were ready to perish. The great plan of salvation drew men close together in unity and love. The social intercourse was profitable. The love of the Redeemer and the ways and means of saving perishing souls was the burden of our hearts. Holiness, and the Author and Finisher of our faith, were the interesting subjects. Read Malachi 3:16, 17.
Lt 67, 1895
Prescott, W. W.
Granville, New South Wales, Australia
June 12, 1895
W. W. Prescott:
I have some matter I wish to present before you in regard to education. The teachers in our schools have great respect for authors and books that are current in most of our educational institutions. All heaven has been looking upon our institutions of learning and asking you, What is the chaff to the wheat? The Lord has given us the most precious instructions in His Word, teaching us the characters that we must form in this life to prepare for the future, immortal life.
It has been the custom to exalt books and authors that do not present the proper foundation for true education. From what source did these authors obtain their wisdom, a large share of which does not deserve our respect, even if the authors are regarded as being wise men. Have they taken their lessons from the greatest teacher that the world ever knew? If not, they are decidedly in the fault. Those who are preparing for the heavenly abodes should be recommended to make the Bible the chief book of their study.
Those popular authors have not pointed out to the students the way that leads to eternal life. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hath sent.” John 17:3. The authors of these books current in our schools are recommended and exalted as learned men; their education is in every way deficient, unless they themselves have been educated in the school of Christ, and by practical knowledge bear witness to the Word of God as the most essential study for children and youth. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Proverbs 9:10.] Books should have been prepared to place in the hands of students that would educate them to have a sincere, reverent love of truth and steadfast integrity. The class of studies which are positively essential in the formation of character to give them a preparation for the future life should be kept ever before them.
Christ should be uplifted as the first Great Teacher, the only begotten Son of God, who was with the Father from eternal ages. The Son of God was the Great Teacher sent into the world as the Light of the world. “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] The Father was represented in Christ, and the attention in education must be of that character that they will look to Him and believe in Him as the likeness of God. He had a most wonderful mission to our world, and his work was not in a line to give a full relation of His personal claims to deity, but His humiliation was a concealment of His claims. This is why the Jewish nation did not acknowledge Christ as the Prince of life, because He did not come with display in outward appearance, for He hid under the garb of humanity His glorious character.
The human family was to consider Him in the light of the Holy Scriptures, which were to testify of the manner of His coming. Had He come, displaying His glory that He had with His Father, then His pathway toward the cross would have been thwarted by the purpose of men, who would have taken Him by force and made Him king. He was to close His life by making a solemn oblation of Himself. Type was to reach antitype in Jesus Christ. His whole life was a preface to His death on the cross. His character was a life of obedience to all God’s commandments, and was to be a sample to all men upon the earth. His life was the living of the law in humanity. That law Adam transgressed, but Christ, by His perfect obedience to the law, redeemed Adam’s disgraceful failure and fall.
The prophecies are to be studied, and the life of Christ compared with the writings of the prophets. He identifies Himself with the prophecies, stating over and over again, They wrote of me; they testify of me. The Bible is the only book giving a positive description of Christ Jesus, and if every human being would study it as their lesson book, and obey it, not a soul would be lost.
All the rays of light shining in the Scriptures point to Jesus Christ and testify of Him, linking together the Old and New Testament Scriptures. Christ is presented as the Author and Finisher of their faith, Himself the One in whom their hopes of eternal life are centered. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
What book can begin to compare with the Bible? It is essential for every child, for youth, and those of mature age to understand, for it is the Word of God, the Word to guide all the human family to heaven. Then why does not the Word from God contain the chief elements which constitute education? Uninspired authors are placed in the hands of children and youth in our schools as lesson books—books from which they are to be educated. They are kept before the youth, taking up their precious time in studying those things which they can never use. Many books have been introduced into the schools which should never have been placed there. These books do not in any sense voice the words of John, “Behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world.” [John 1:29.] The whole line of studies in our schools should be to prepare a people for the future, immortal life.
Jesus Christ is the knowledge of the Father, and Christ is our Great Teacher sent from God. Christ has declared in John that He is that Bread sent down from heaven. “Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me hath everlasting life. I am that Bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness and are dead. This is that bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread he shall live forever, and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 6:47-51.] The disciples did not comprehend His words. Says Christ, “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [Verse 63.]
It is of immense importance, in the light of the lessons of Christ, that every human being should study the Scriptures, that [he] may be convicted in whom [his] hopes of eternal life are centered. The Bible should ever have been made the great, grand book of study which has come down to us from heaven and is the Word of life. Should that book which tells us what we must do in order to be saved be set aside in a corner and human productions be exalted as the great wisdom in education? The very knowledge children and youth need to obtain for usefulness in this life, and that they may carry with them in the future life, is found in the Word of God. But this is not encouraged and presented before them as the most essential knowledge, and as that which will give the most correct information of the true God, and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. There are gods many and doctrines many. There are maxims and commandments placed before our youth as the commandments of God. It is impossible to them to understand what is truth, what is the sacred and what is the common, only as they understand the Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments.
The Word of God is to stand as the highest educating book in our world, and is to be treated with reverential awe. It is our guidebook; we shall receive from it the truth. We need to present the Bible as the great lesson book to place in the hands of our children and youth that they may know Christ whom to know aright is life eternal. It is the book to be studied by those of middle age and those who are aged. The Word contains promises, warnings, encouragement, and assurances of the love of God to all who accept Him as their Saviour. Then place the Holy Word in their hands. Encourage them to search the Word and they will in so doing find hidden treasures of inestimable value to them in this present life, and in receiving Christ as the Bread of Life they have the promise of eternal life.
The lesson book, the Bible, contains the instruction of the character they must have—the moral excellence of character which must be cultivated, which God and heaven require. “Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God.” [Matthew 5:8.] “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” [Hebrews 12:14.] “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. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law. And we know that he was manifested to take away sin, and in him is no sin.” [1 John 3:2-5.]
This all-important knowledge is to be kept before children and youth, not in an arbitrary, dictatorial manner, but as divine disclosures, which are of the highest value to secure their present peace, quietude, and rest of mind in this present world of turmoil and strife, and as a preparation for the future eternal life in the kingdom of God, where they shall see God, and know God and Jesus Christ, who gave His precious life to redeem them.
Christ came in the form of humanity to live the law of God. He was the Word of life. He came to be the gospel of salvation to the world, and to fulfill every specification of the law. Jesus is the Word, the guidebook, which must be received and obeyed in every particular. How necessary that this mine of truth be explored, and the precious treasures of truth be discovered and secured as rich jewels. The incarnation of Christ, His divinity, His atonement, His wonderful life in heaven as our Advocate, the office of the Holy Spirit—all those living, vital themes of Christianity are revealed from Genesis to Revelation. The golden links of truth form a chain of evangelical truth, and the first and staple link is found in the great teachings of Christ Jesus. Why, then, should not the Scriptures be ennobled and exalted in every school in our land? How little children are educated to study the Bible as the Word of God, and feed upon its truths, which are the flesh and blood of the Son of God! “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood” (that is, continue to receive the words of Christ, and practice them) “hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” [John 6:53-56.] “And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.” [1 John 3:24.]
There is necessity for every family to make the Bible the book of their study. Christ’s sayings are pure gold, without one particle of dross, unless men, with their human understanding, shall try to put it there, and make falsehood appear as a portion of truth. To those who have received the false interpretation of the Word, when they search the Scriptures with determined effort to obtain the very marrow of truth contained in them, the Holy Spirit opens the eyes of their understanding, and the truths of the Word are to them as a new revelation. Their hearts are quickened to a new and living faith, and they behold wondrous things out of His law. The teachings of Christ have a breadth and depth to many which they have never understood before.
The doctrines of grace and truth are not really understood by the larger number of our students and church members. Blindness of mind has happened to Israel. For human agents to misconstrue and put a forced, half truthful, and mystical construction upon the oracles of God is an act which endangers their own souls, and the souls of others. “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life; and out of the Holy City, and from the things which are written in this book.” Revelation 22:18, 19. Those, who by their human construction shall make the Scripture to utter that which Christ has never placed upon it, weaken their force, making the voice of God in instruction and warnings to testify to falsehood, to avoid the inconvenience incurred by obedience to God’s requirements, have become signboards pointing in the wrong direction, into false paths, which lead to transgression and death.
The testimony of the Alpha and Omega in regard to the punishment for making nonessential one word spoken by the mouth of God is the fearful denunciation that they shall receive of the plagues that are written in the Book; their names shall be taken out of the book of life and from the Holy City.
How many can truthfully answer this question, What is the essential education for this time? Education means much more than many suppose. True education embraces physical, mental, and moral training, in order that all the powers shall be fitted for the best development, to do service for God, and to work for the uplifting of humanity. To seek for self-recognition, for self-glorification, will leave the human agent destitute of the Spirit of God, destitute of that grace which will make him a useful, efficient worker for Jesus Christ. Those who desire only to glorify God will not be striving to bring their supposed merits into notice, or striving for recognition, or for the highest place. They that hear the call of the world’s Redeemer, and obey that call, will be recognized as a distinct, self-sacrificing, holy people.
If the students in our schools will listen for the purpose of hearing and obeying the invitation, “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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” [Matthew 11:28-30], they will be living epistles, known and read of all men. “Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 18:3, 4.] The youth are in need of educators who shall keep the Word of God ever before them in living principles. If they will keep Bible precepts ever as their textbook, they will have greater influence over the youth, for the teachers will be learners, having a living touch with God. All the time they are inculcating ideas and principles that will lead to a greater knowledge of God, and earnest, growing faith in their behalf in the blood of Jesus, and the power and efficacy of the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ to keep them from falling; because they are constantly seeking the strongholds of a healthful and well-balanced Christian experience, carrying with them qualifications for future usefulness, and intelligence, and piety.
The teachers see and feel that they must labor not to dwarf and taint the minds of their associates with a sickly half-religious service. There is need of separating from our educational institutions an erroneous, polluted literature, so that ideas will not be received as seeds of sin. Let none suppose that education means a study of books that will lead to the reception of ideas of authors that will sow seed and spring up to bear fruit that must be bound up in bundles with the world, separating them from the source of all wisdom, all efficiency, and all power, leaving them the sport of Satan’s arch-deceiving power. A pure education for youth in our schools, undiluted with heathen philosophy, is a positive necessity in literary lines.
The well-being, the happiness of the religious life in the families with which they are connected, the prosperity and piety of the church of which they are members, are largely dependent upon the religious education that the youth have received in our schools.
Lt 70, 1895
Responsible Men in the Review Office
Norfolk Villa, Prospect Street, Granville, N. S. W., Australia
June 9, 1895
To the Responsible Men in the Review Office:
When the news came that my son Edson had strayed from the fold, I scarcely dared to inquire, What course has he pursued that no one feels it a duty to work diligently for his soul? For a time I could get no light from heaven in regard to his condition; but I prayed night and day. For many months I had been a great sufferer; much of the time I could sleep only two hours at night. But. Oh, how my heart longed for my son. My cry went up to heaven in his behalf. I knew that he was far away from God, and I wrestled in prayer for him, while all were lost in slumber.
One night the matter was opened before me, the reason of his straying from the Lord, the reason of his unbelief, one point after another. <He did obey the message from God to go forth and speak His word to the people.> I saw the careless indifference manifested toward him <at the very time he needed help;> I heard the words falling from the lips of men who had not made straight paths for their own feet, and, but for whom, Edson White would not have been where he was. Although this was no excuse for him, for he knew the truth and its claims, yet it was a great temptation to him. <Had he followed the light given him of God through His appointed agencies, he would not have been in darkness but in a bright and shining light.>
I had tried to think that his case had been handled wisely by those who ought to know how to deal with minds that are fallen under temptation. <I dared not object to their course until the Lord presented matters in their true light.> But I had plainly presented before me the great want of Christ’s love and the wrong judgments and conclusions in his case. His motives were misjudged, and the worse construction was placed upon his course of action. If his conduct had been just what it was imagined, then he was <the> one who needed special care, as a sick person needs treatment. But <wounded,> bruised by the enemy, he was left to perish.
I shall not attempt to present the half that was then presented to me <in mismanagement of souls with which you are brought in connection,> but I knew that I had a son straying in the wilderness, and where was the tender shepherd to hunt for the lost one? I looked at one, then at another, and still another, of those whose hearts should have been drawn out in love and sympathy and earnest labor for the very one who needed their help. I saw none who took upon themselves the travail of soul. The many had educated and trained themselves to censure, to condemn, to repulse with harsh and stinging words that wound to the quick. <Those very words were as appropriate to themselves as to him, but that was not apparent to them.>
O, I thought, must this terrible experience be permitted in my family to bring vividly to my soul, in the case of my own son, the great neglect of so many to labor for those that are ready to perish? Did I need this experience to make me feel as never before the peril of souls under temptation and treated with indifference and contempt, [with] no hands stretched out to save? Must God’s professed people in their unchristlike attitude toward the erring be presented in the case of my own son before I should bear a testimony, decided and earnest and unflinching? Should I press home to the hearts of those who seem to be without feeling that, unless they fall on the Rock and are broken, the outcome of their selfish, self-centered course will be that the Rock will fall upon them and grind them to powder?
God will be honored in all who come near to Him. Cold hearted worldliness is excluding from the heart the love of Jesus. Says the Alpha and Omega, “I have somewhat against thee because thou hast left thy first love.” [Revelation 2:4.] Words as written in characters of fire were presented before me as inscribed on the very walls of the printing office, on the walls of the council rooms, “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Revelation 3:1-3.]
When the truth is received, it works upon the heart, purifying it from all selfishness and worldliness. As we draw nigh to God, we feel as never before the sense of sin, of righteousness and judgment to come. We feel the deepest interest and most tender sympathy for the very ones who need our help; and if we are patient, if we do not magnify before us errors and misdeeds, if we will exercise that love which Christ is continually exercising for us in our mistakes and errors and our forgetfulness of His claims upon us, we shall know how to save those who are ready to die.
As I see the willingness to let souls go, and turn from them, as in the case of my own son, who would have appreciated help if it had been proffered him, I set my heart to do the bidding of God; in the power of His Spirit, I will bear the message <given> me, to show the defects of those who are indifferent, careless, hard-hearted toward the very ones that in the sight of <the heart-searching> God are not as guilty as themselves. There are ministers and people who know the truth in regard to these matters, but they have felt themselves dependent upon the men whose course toward the erring they know is not right, and they fear to alienate themselves from them. Oh that there might be men who would act with a single eye to the glory of God <and keep the way of the Lord to do justice and exercise mercy and love.>
The word of God bids me bear a plain testimony, and sometimes in agony of soul, sometimes with an impelling spirit, I move forward trusting the result with God. But since my severe affliction, I <learned my lesson> to move forward depending on no man, waiting not for the approval <or consent> of any man. I have devoted my heart, with all the vigor of my being, to the work of seeking to waken a spirit of love and tenderness in the breasts of those who have manifested so little love. I cannot, dare not, flatter any man. A heavy burden rests upon me today.
Light from the Lord is given to you who are connected with the Office. I must speak in regard to another who has erred from the way. Whatever course Frank Belden may have taken, you have pursued a course toward him which you cannot justify in the judgment. For a time you confederated with him, but when he changed his attitude in regard to your confederacy <in some things,> the same selfish, one-sided dealing practiced toward others marked your course toward him. All <may suppose> that I have justified the conduct of Frank Belden. <I have not dared to do this.> But the fact remains that there are those who have practiced double dealing and have pursued toward him a course that God condemns. Will you consider this matter? Are you willing to run the risk of having the same thing acted over in your own case?
The Investigative Judgment will soon pass upon the living. I will not flatter your souls, saying peace, peace, when you cannot have peace. On every side are souls for whom Christ has given His own blood, to save them from ruin; and what have you done to save them? Have you lifted your hand to bless by words and deeds, the ones whom you can help and bless?
God has given Frank Belden talents for usefulness, but they have been tarnished. By what? By the influence and principles of men in positions of trust. Oh, that the sense of eternal realities may now give Frank a repentance that will not need to be repented of. God saw that his connection with his associates in the office and in business capacity for years has not been a savor of life unto life. I thank the Lord that Frank is separated from the Office, and that under whatever circumstances God has permitted, he has been walking in humility and learning a lesson which otherwise he might never have learned.
“The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” [James 3:17, 18.] “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” “Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” [James 4:10, 5-8.]
Who among you is consciously following the example of Christ? Who is growing into Christlikeness? The Lord says, “I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and (not weaken and overthrow) strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Revelation 3:1-3.] It was the Lord who permitted Captain Eldridge and Frank Belden by their own action to separate from the Office, not because they were more blameworthy than their associates, but because their eternal interest was in peril, and the separation from the Office would change their spirit. Scenes of trial would show them how little dependence can be placed on men who will flatter with their lips; let adversity come, and then when true friendship is of highest value, it is not.
The close friendship of Captain Eldridge would, if sanctified, have been a benefit to both, but it proved a snare. Frank could have done Captain Eldridge much good, and Captain Eldridge could have done Frank much good; but it was otherwise. There is need of a revealing of the true standard of character. God wants that His love, the beauty of His character, shall captivate the soul.
Oh, how little has God been glorified by your association one with another. We are safe only in seeking sympathy of that quality which exists in the bosom of Him who values men so much that He gave His life for them. He loves us with an everlasting love. If you will make Him your trust, the same God who formed you in the beginning and who created you anew in Christ Jesus, will through His grace work day after day a change in you. He who has begun a good work in you will perform it unto the day of Christ’s second appearing. In all who follow Him, God demands perfection of character. If you will receive Christ and believe in Him as your personal Saviour, you are members of His body, a part of His living, working agency; and if you follow on to know the Lord, then shall you know His going forth is prepared as the morning.
Lt 71, 1895
Brethren in the Review and Herald
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, N. S. W., Australia
February 12, 1895
Brethren in the Review and Herald Office:
I have a duty that I must do to you, and I cannot longer forbear writing to you in regard to Edson White. The history of affairs connected with him from the time we left for Australia has not been pleasant for me to contemplate. While I was lying upon a bed of sickness, I heard of the perplexity into which Edson was thrown by the action of Mrs. Mason. I was suffering severely through physical maladies, but the burden I bore for Edson caused me the most suffering of all. I wrote to a brother who was a father of boys, and poured out my soul-anguish to him, for I was too far away to do any personal labor for my son.
In the night season the Lord instructed me to write and to lay the burden of his case upon those who were near enough to do the work for him that I was too far away to accomplish. I wrote to one who I thought would be as a shepherd of the flock, and who would go forth to seek and to save that which was lost. I thought he would be as the true shepherd, and would leave the ninety and nine, and would make it his special work to seek and to save a soul that was in peril and ready to die. I anxiously waited for every mail, hoping to learn that some special effort had been made to seek and to save my lost son, but I waited in vain.
I remembered what travail of soul both my husband and myself suffered for the erring ones! We labored earnestly for the children of others. My husband encouraged souls not only with his sympathy but with his means. He sought in every way to lift up those who were fallen. Over and over again I said, “We shall surely hear something about Edson,” but not a line came to encourage us in the hope that anyone was taking an interest in my erring child. I prayed that the Lord would inspire the hearts of some of our brethren, and fill them with His love, and tender, pitying sympathy, so that they would labor for him who was ready to perish. After this, Edson wrote us the most discouraging chapters in regard to his case. I wrote a letter to him. I also wrote to those who held responsible places in the Review office, but I did not send this letter. The word came to me to wait, that God was testing and proving these men, that He had given His life, not only to save Edson, but to save them from eternal ruin.
Christ left the royal court, gave up His heavenly command, turned from the inhabitants of worlds unfallen, and volunteered to come to a world that was seared and marred with the curse. He clothed His divinity with humanity, and for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty might become rich. He came to seek the one lost sheep, the one world that had fallen by sin. He endured every humiliation and suffering in order that He might save that which was lost. All that a God could do was done to save a perishing world. Christ died upon the cross so as to make it possible that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. But when He ascended to heaven to become our Advocate in the heavenly courts, He left His work in the hands of His disciples. Those who believed in Him, those who heard His word were to become His representatives to the world. Through them His character was to be revealed to men as it was revealed to Moses.
When Moses prayed earnestly, “I beseech thee, show me thy glory,” the Lord said, “I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee … And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth”—The character of God is His glory. [Exodus 33:18, 19; 34:6.] Jesus said, “And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are one: I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me. Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am: that they may behold My glory, which Thou hast given Me; for Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world.” [John 17:22-24.]
Those who are united with Christ as the branch is united with the living vine, will represent Him in character. Jesus gives us instruction, saying, “Abide in Me, and I in you: as the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him: the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing … Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you. Continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I written unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:4, 5, 8-12.]
Many, many, many are professing to keep the commandments of God, and yet they are breaking them every day they live by their manifest want of love. The course that Brother and Sister Mason took in regard to Edson White was unjust and unrighteous. Edson, it is true, was not under the influence of the Spirit of God, and undoubtedly did wrong, but the very ones who censured him, who represented him as clothed in filthy garments were themselves not walking circumspectly, but were full of selfishness, greed, and suspicion, and were sustaining one another in a confederacy which was demoralizing to principle. In their hardness of heart they were much like the relentless servant to whom much had been forgiven, but who refused to forgive a small debt. I have been shown that those who judge unmercifully will themselves have justice without mercy. “Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged. And with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” [Matthew 7:1, 2.] Those who hear but do not practice the words of Christ are running tremendous risks. Jesus says, “Every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand; and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the wind blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 26, 27.]
I was not permitted to send the matter that I had written to you. The Lord said, “I have this matter in My own hands. I will cast down, I will build up.” Self must either be laid aside, or God will lay the human instrument aside. In those who have stood in responsible places in the Review and Herald Office self has been prominent. It was Satan who introduced self-seeking into the heavenly courts; but it did not remain there. Selfishness was cast out and will never again find its way into heaven.
If those who are in connection with the sacred work of God were abiding in Christ, they would be fruitful branches of the living vine, and would bear a very different kind of fruit than that which they have borne in the past. They have been misleading examples in their life and conduct.
Every one was undiscovered traits of character that must come to light through trial and test. God allows those who are full of self-sufficiency, self-righteousness, self-importance, who flatter themselves that they know a great deal, to be sorely tempted so that they may understand their helplessness. Whenever self-confidence exists, where men have a high estimate of self, it will be made known in some way. The roots of covetousness may be deeply buried, but self-esteem will bring the roots to the surface. The evil that has been cherished will be made known in many ways. It is because human agents are so devoid of the love of Christ that they are so deficient. Those who cherish unholy principles, who bring them into their life practice, will deteriorate in character. Like the inhabitants of the old world they will find that every imagination and thought of the heart will be evil, and evil continually.
There were men who looked upon Edson White as being an incurable case. They looked upon him in his helplessness and passed by on the other side, but the Lord looked upon them as greater sinners than he was. They were standing in worse spiritual condition before God than was Edson White. The Lord discerned the thoughts, intents, and purposes of their hearts. But although they were far from blameless, yet they felt free to condemn him because his defects were developed and known, and theirs were hidden and undiscovered. They put their own construction upon his course of action, and painted him the blackest of colors. They did not realize that God saw and read every hidden motive of the heart. He knows every secret of the soul, He weighs character, not in the balances of man’s opinion, but in the balances of the sanctuary, and He registers men as guilty or not guilty according to the true condition of the heart.
The course that was pursued towards Edson White was most grievous in the sight of God, and the reason that I write these reproving words is [so] that this course may not be repeated toward anyone else, whether he be saint or sinner. That which was not done for him constitutes the built of many in responsible positions. They neglected to do the work of a faithful steward, and are in danger of leaving undone the work that they should do for others who are in similar circumstances. Edson was left like the one whom Christ represented as wounded and bruised and ready to die by the wayside.
Those who show no greater wisdom in dealing with Christ’s purchased possession than have those who were willing to leave Edson helpless and despairing prove that they are unfit to bear responsibilities of such vital interest as the responsibilities that are laid upon them in connection with the cause of God. They are in danger of leaving other souls to perish without a ray of hope. They are in danger of failing to become laborers together with God. Some withheld their sympathy from Edson, spoke no word of comfort, but rather repulsed every advance he made, and believed the worst report that could be made of him, condemning him in a wholesale fashion in taking this course, were themselves not free from selfishness and self-service. Sin lies at the door of these men who as stewards of God should have sought to save the one whom they believed to be in so great danger, and that which they failed to do stands registered against them on the book of heaven. Their neglected duties will hang upon them as a weight.
Neglect of the Lord’s purchased property is plainly condemned in the Word of God. Those who are neglectful of the souls for whom Christ died will have to change their course or will have to meet an account in the day of God that they will not care to meet. If Edson’s case was the only case in which injustice had been done, I would not now present the matter before you; but there have been many other souls who might have been saved that have been lost because those who stand in official positions profess so much, and practice so little, of the love and tenderness of God. They do not manifest the wisdom of God in saving souls for whom Christ died. Many who profess to be followers of Christ do not represent Him in their daily lives. They misrepresent Him in character, in spirit, and in action.
Actions speak louder than words. The sermon that is preached in the pulpit is counteracted by the sermon that is preached in the lives of those who claim to be advocates of truth. It is because of a lack of the practicing of the words of Christ that a curse is coming upon our churches. If Christ is not living in His human agent, then, when circumstances are favorable to their development, the attributes of Satan will appear. A noble life is the most powerful sermon in favor of Christianity. If we would live such a life, our consciences must be quickened by continual contact with the Word of God. Our souls must be familiar with the heavenly standard, and we must avoid every course that diverges from the right.
God calls upon you in Battle Creek to take heed lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. The Lord has not placed men in authority, or given them liberty because of that authority, to treat any soul that is in need of help as they have treated Edson White. Some of you gave Edson no chance for his life, allowed him no opportunity to say whether the charges brought against him were true or false. You gave him no chance to recover himself. He supposed that his mother and his brother would come to his help, but under the circumstances we dared not do it. The word to me was that the Lord Himself take matters in charge. That he was suffering these things to be brought about in order to develop character and to reveal hearts.
If those who were on the ground had had bowels of mercy, they would have considered how they would have felt if they had been placed in circumstances similar to those in which Edson White was placed. Instead of putting themselves in his place, they passed hasty judgment upon him, supposing that they were passing an honest judgment. But they did not consider themselves lest they also should be tempted. They did not think how hard it would be for them to be placed in a similar position, and to receive similar harsh treatment. They did not think how it would seem to be regarded as unworthy of a respectful or an encouraging word. If they are not thoroughly converted, they will treat others as they have treated Edson White.
The Lord will bring them through experiences that are similar to those of the persons whom they have condemned, that in a measure they may realize the painful feeling they are willing others should endure, and understand how discouraging is such a course of action. What serious injury it does to the soul, how it imperils the prospects, and ruins the reputation before the church and the world!
I did not fully know the course that had been pursued towards Edson until [after] he had returned to his Father’s house. I carefully interviewed one of the brethren, who presented to me both sides of the question. Since then the Lord has presented before me the way in which He regards such transactions. Edson was driven into desperation and hopelessness, and men left him upon Satan’s battle ground to be torn in pieces. When he took his most desperate position, he was pointed at as one who vindicated the very worst suppositions that had ever been imagined against him. But it was the course of treatment that he received, the sentence pronounced upon him, the injustice done to him, that made him what he was. Humanity dropped out of the hearts of those who pronounced upon him, and they exhibited the attributes of Satan.
Since Brother Edwards wrote me, I have felt that it was time to speak plainly; but I refrained from so doing because the Lord bade me to wait and watch, for He had these matters in hand. But now that the restraint is removed, I must speak. You saw a soul perishing, and who among you bore the burden upon your hearts? Who among you asked yourselves, Would I wish to be treated as Edson White is being treated were I in his place?
Who among you manifested interest to watch for Edson’s soul as he that must give an account to God, who has paid the purchase money of an infinite price for his soul? Did you consider that your course of action has [opened], and will continue to open, a door of temptation to the souls of men? Did you consider that your course would bring upon others great suffering of mind, cause great discouragement, and instead of binding hearts in confidence to you, would weaken your faith and trust? Did you consider that you were not answering the prayer of Christ when He prayed that His disciples might be one, as He is One with the Father? [John 17:11.] Was your course one that was likely to inspire confidence in the hearts of those whom the conference had accepted as those who were laboring together with God? Did you care whether you brought suffering to the soul, or inspired men with hope and gladness?
Your transactions have been presented to me, and the burden was placed upon me to write words of encouragement to the souls that you bruised, and cared not to save. The Lord has presented principles to me that, should I write them out, would fill a volume. Precious lessons have been given to me, and I have been impressed to send warnings and entreaties to Edson White, saying to him, “Do not trust in men nor make flesh your arm. Let no man or set of men come between your soul and God. You have failed on this point in the past. You have often thrown yourself down in discouragement and abandonment. But by so doing you have encouraged those who have taken a course contrary to the will of God, to think that they were justified in the course they have pursued toward you. God lives and reigns, and has given you lessons in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew for your encouragement; “for the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.” [Verse 11.]
You had an opportunity to show an interest in him for whom Christ died, but you left him bound, afflicted, and broken. You turned from him whom the Spirit of God was taking up, and was striving with to bring him from darkness to light. You would not plead for him for whom Christ is acting as advocate in the courts of heaven. The angels of heaven were looking upon every transaction that transpired, were listening to every word that was spoken. Did you remember that “by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned”? [Matthew 12:37.]
You did not manifest the spirit of the true Shepherd toward the wandering sheep. Jesus says, “How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish.” [Matthew 18:12-14.] Whom among you has acted the part of a faithful shepherd, seeking to bring back the wandering sheep to the fold.
God Himself has seen your indifference, your careless disregard for those who are ready to die. He has acted the part of a true shepherd. He has gone after the lost sheep, and has spoken to the distressed soul, saying, “Return unto me, and I will return unto you.” [Malachi 3:7.] “I will heal their backslidings, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.” [Hosea 14:4.] All heaven rejoices in the finding of the lost sheep. But instead of partaking of this spirit, how many have manifested the spirit of the elder brother in the parable of the return of the prodigal son.
I have been shown that many who are handling sacred things have acted the part of the elder brother. He felt that his own course of action was righteous, he supposed that he had been faithful in the discharge of his home duties, and that he himself needed no repentance. He contrasted his own course of action with that of the prodigal, and could not sympathize with the joy that was manifested by the father in receiving back his wandering one. Although he thought himself in a position to be commended and honored, yet he made manifest the fact that he was in need of repentance. In his selfishness he was unwilling to receive his repenting brother, and would not rejoice at his return. These lessons of Christ are given to us for our benefit, that we who claim to love God may properly represent Him in our service.
Oh, that none may assume the attitude of the complaining elder brother when the prodigal returns to his father’s house. I cannot present all that I would be glad to present at this time in regard to these parables. They mean much, and the practicing of these lessons involves eternal interests. We should carefully study the parable of the lost sheep, the lost piece of silver, and the prodigal son. In practice we have strangely departed from these practical lessons. Instead of seeking the lost sheep, some have wounded and driven it away. Jesus says, “Woe unto the world because of offenses. For it must needs be that offenses come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! … Whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea.” [Matthew 18:7, 6.]
It rests with us individually as to whether or not we will be doers of the Word of God. It will be for our soul’s present and eternal good, it will be for the present and eternal good of souls who need our help, for us to learn these lessons. We are representatives of Christ, and he has entrusted to our faithful watchcare the sheep of His pasture. He had bidden us watch for souls as they that must give an account. A record is given of the way in which we deal with others and as we deal with others we shall be dealt with.
When we take heed to the instruction that Christ has given to His disciples, a wonderful change will take place in the sentiment and attitude of our Seventh-day Adventist churches. Then the spiritual leaven will work in every family, and precious will be the results, for every father and mother will have their hearts softened and melted by the gracious mercy of a long-suffering God. They will be able to cheer and encourage others, and their influence will be felt in the church. They will realize that it makes a great difference whether their words are like thorns and thistles, or like fragrant roses and lilies. They will have a realizing sense that their works are a savor of life unto life or of death unto death.
Bible religion means far more than many have demonstrated it to mean in their life practice. Many are now busy and active in the work connected with the cause of God who are taking the course of the foolish virgins, and are not supplying their vessels with the oil of grace. They are registered as those who have a false religion, for they do not practice the lessons of Christ in their daily life. They do not manifest the meekness and lowliness, the gentleness, tenderness, sympathy and love of Christ. They do not make manifest that they are working out the divine purpose.
Christ stands at the head of humanity, and it is His purpose to lead us into high and holy paths of purity. By the wondrous working of His grace, we are to be made complete in Him. But in order to manifest the character of God, in order that we may not deceive ourselves, the church, and the world by a counterfeit Christianity, we must become personally acquainted with God. If we have fellowship with God, we are His ministers, even if we never preach to a congregation. We are workers together with God in presenting the perfection of His character in humanity. This we may do by having the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Christ is full of grace and truth. Are we thus? He condescended to take upon Himself humanity in order that He might show us what humanity may become by being united with divinity. He showed us what we might manifest of goodness, mercy, love, and truth, in the human character, by union with Himself.
“For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] The word of the Lord to Zachariah the prophet should be heeded by us. He says, “Thus saith the Lord of Hosts, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassion every man to his brother. And oppress not the widow nor the fatherless, the stranger nor the poor; let none of you imagine evil against his brother in his heart. But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of Hosts hath sent in His spirit by the former prophets. Therefore came great wrath from the Lord of Hosts.” [Zechariah 7:9-12.]
Those who are handling sacred things need to tremble and to fear, even as is represented by the trembling of Isaiah in the sixth chapter. He says, “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train fulled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God of Hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
“Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone: because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have been the king, the Lord of Hosts.” When this grand and awful glory was presented to the prophet, he realized his sinfulness. “Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with a tongs from off the altar: and he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips: and thine iniquity is taken way, and the sin is purged. Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” [Verses 1-8.]
When the majesty and glory of God is revealed, self will sink into insignificance. Those who view the glory of God will not wrap the garments of their own self-righteousness around them. They will not exercise a proud, lofty, overbearing, iron will that will lead them to rule or ruin; but their words will be words of contrition and meekness, and they will realize that they are men of unclean lips, and dwelling in the midst of a people of unclean lips. Men who are now regarded as reliable business men in connection with the work of God must be converted. They do not bring the spirit of truth into their work. The fragrance of Christ is not with them, and they are not a savor of life unto life, and yet the end is near.
This is the great Day of Atonement, and our Advocate is standing before the Father, pleading as our Intercessor. In place of wrapping about us the garments of self-righteousness, we should be found daily humbling ourselves before God, confessing our own individual sins, seeking the pardon of our transgressions, and cooperating with Christ in the work of preparing our souls to reflect the divine image. Unless we enter the sanctuary above, and unite with Christ in working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, we shall be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary, and shall be pronounced wanting. This is our day of grace.
The Lord gave lessons, opportunities, and privileges to Judas, but he did not improve them. He persisted in acting out his own temper, in manifesting his own spirit, until at last he developed the attributes of Satan, and went forth to betray his Lord. He refused to be united with Christ in spirit and word and action, and chose to be a partner with him who was an accuser of his brethren, and a murderer from the beginning. If we continue to despise our privileges, like Judas we shall finally pass the lines, and place ourselves irretrievably with the hosts of rebellion.
Wearing the yoke with Christ means to work in His lines, to be a co-partner with Him in His sufferings and toils for lost humanity. It means to be a wise instructor of souls. We shall be what we are willing to be made by Christ in these precious hours of probation. We shall be the sort of a vessel that we allow ourselves to be molded into. We must unite with God in the molding and fashioning work, having our wills submitted to the divine will. Christ has promised an inheritance to those who are thus submissive. He says, “Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth.” “Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called the children of God.” [Matthew 5:5, 7-9.]