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1845
January 1, 1845
Vol. VIII. No. 21. Boston, Whole No. 191
Joshua V. Himes
THE ADVENT HERALD,
AND SIGNS OF THE TIMES REPORTER.
BEHOLD! THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH!! GO YE OUT TO MEET HIM!!!
VOL. VIII. NO. 21. Boston, Wednesday, January 1, 1845. WHOLE NO. 191. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.1
THE ADVENT HERALD
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IS PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY BY
J. V. HIMES,
AT NO. 14 DEVONSHIRE STREET, BOSTON.
J. V. Himes, S. Bliss, & A. Hale, Editors. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.2
Terms.—One Dollar per Volume, of 26 Numbers. Five Dollars for 6 Copies, Ten Dollars for 13 Copies.
All communications for the Advent Herald, or orders for Books or remittances, should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass,” post paid. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.3
Post Masters are authorized by the Post Office Department to forward free of expense orders for, or to discontinue publications, and also money to pay for the same. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.4
Subscribers’ names with the State and Post Office should be distinctly given when money is forwarded Where the Post Office is not given, we are liable to misdirect the paper, or credit to the wrong person, as there are often several of the same name, or several Post Offices in the same town. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.5
“And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: and they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?”—Revelation 6:9, 10. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.6
How long, O Lord, how long?
It was in heaven
That prayerful voice was heard,
From souls forgiven. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.7
Was heaven not enough?
Happy, secure,
Robed in eternal bliss,
Would they have more? HST January 1, 1845, page 161.8
Jesus! they would have more—
Even in bliss,
The spirits expectant wait
More happiness:— HST January 1, 1845, page 161.9
They wait, even in heaven,
Impatiently,
To see this troubled world
At peace with thee. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.10
They would behold their King,
Once crucified,
Mistrusted still, disowned,
And still denied,— HST January 1, 1845, page 161.11
Jesus! they would behold
Thy work complete,
And misery and sin
Beneath thy feet. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.12
And may not we, too, join
In heaven’s song?
Should we alone not ask,
“How long, how long?” HST January 1, 1845, page 161.13
“SECOND ADVENTISM.”
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A Sermon preached in the Baldwin Place Church, Boston, Sabbath, Oct. 27, 1844, by Rev. Baron. Stow, the Pastor. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.14
Continued
III.—Some of the Lessons to be Learned from this Delusion
One is, the importance of guarding well the door of the church against the admission of unstable souls, on whom we may know beforehand that little dependence can be placed. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.15
A second is, the wisdom of avoiding those places where only the senses and the passions are addressed. The very atmosphere is bewildering to the imagination, and the whole mind, before it is aware, becomes intoxicated with excitement. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.16
A third is, the extreme folly of studying into matters which God assures us he has purposely concealed. It is more than folly; it is wicked presumption. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.17
A fourth is, the importance of relying less upon expositors of the saored oracles, and more on a careful investigation of the Bible for ourselves. Let our hearts be sound in God’s statutes; then we shall not be the victims of any shameful delusion. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.18
(Concluded next week.)
Remarks on the Above
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Mr. Stow has discovered eight “lessons to be learned” from a review of the heresy which we had expected to see proved such, if it could be, before the discourse was concluded. When the Adventists are shown, from the Word of God, that the doctrines which they believe and advocate are not in accordance with the plain teachings of Christ and his apostles, they will cheerfully confess their error. The exact time, in which they expected the Lord would come according to promise—in like manner as he went up into heaven, has passed. In this matter they have publicly acknowledged their [original illegible] them. And it has been with them a subject of fervent prayer that God would preserve them from error and guide them into all truth. They have been always open to conviction of truth, and have asked for a more excellent way of interpreting the language of Scripture, than the one which they have adopted. Those who have opposed their views of prophecy relating to the Advent nigh, have themselves failed to give a more consistent, harmonious and clear interpretation of Scripture, concerning the whole subject. Many of our opponents have “beat the air” in aiming to refute what Second Advent believers never held to as any part of their faith. They have prejudged the question, and rejected the doctrine before examining the argument, and that, too, because it sprang, as they say, from a “layman of limited intelligence and abilities;” they view it as the offspring of a visionary brain. Many of them have drawn their conclusions on the merits of the question from newspaper absurdities, and thereby have led us to conclude that they have read the newspapers more than they have studied their Bibles; seizing upon the fanatical opinions and human frailties of some who have been connected with the cause, they have affected a pious lamentation over the sad delusion of “Second Adventism.” Let the opponents to this question gird up the loins of their minds, and come to a patient and prayerful study of the subject as revealed in the Scriptures; let them produce solid arguments. in opposition to what they consider an erroneous system of interpretation, and in confirmation of a better, and the subjects of this Heresy and delusion will be ready to receive instruction, let it come from what source it may, and humbly confess before God that they have mistaken truth for error. The most effectual mode of removing error was adopted by Christ. “Beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded to them in all the Scriptures, the things concerning himself.” If the disciples were in error concerning the restoration of the kingdom at his coming, they received it from the instructions of the Savior; for when they were come together, “forty days after.” Christ had spoken to them “of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God,” “they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” Does not the question show that the disciples were instructed by their Lord, that the testoration of the kingdom would be effected by himself. They assumed it as a matter of fact, and only inquired when it should occur. They were to know “the mysteries of the kingdom of God.” They held to the same faith respecting it after Christ’s ascension, and believed that he would fulfil his promise to Israel. Who would say that Christ left his disciples under a palpable error—a gross delusion? HST January 1, 1845, page 161.19
From the delusion of Second Adventism, Mr. Stow has learned several lessons: He says—“One is, the importance of guarding well the door of the church against the admission of unstable souls, on whom we may know beforehand that little dependence can be placed.” The Adventists have learned another lesson, viz: Matthew 18:2-6; 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 depth of the sea. John 3:3; 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. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14; For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. Verse 26, 27; And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. They have learned, “If we are children, we are then, heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.” They have learned that “niether death, nor life, principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord.” They have learned that union with Christ is not a nominal, but a real, vital union, unaffected by any earthly considerations, and severed by no human hand. They have learned that the church of Christ is “purchased with his own blood,” that Christ loved the church and gave himself for it, that he might present it to himself, a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing. And they are willing to be judged by their Master as to their qualifications and fitness for a place in the triumphant church of heaven. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.20
“A second” lesson Mr. Stow has learned, “is, the wisdom of avoiding those places where only the senses and the passions are addressed.” The Adventists have learned the same lesson. Thousands have undoubtedly misjudged of the practical tendency of the preaching of the Second Advent faith, from their ignorance of the manner in which the great truths of the doctrine are presented. Others are liable to the same error until they first embrace it and experience its power. Such regard it with utter indifference, and oppose it as dangerous to the welfare of souls. If the Advent doctrine be rejected on the ground of its being an awakening, stirring topic, then must the pulpit be silent on the solemnities of death, the grave and the eternal horrors of hell. These are questions common to pulpit discussions, described sometimes in awful colors, enforced with impassioned appeals, and made to stare men in the face. Many have testified that they could almost see death approaching, the grave opening, and hell yawning. Terrified at the sight, and overwhelmned at the thought of death and hell, they have seemed to be bewildered in their imagination, or “intoxicated with excitement” as they cried for mercy. Now, the Second Advent near, and the kingdom of heaven at hand, the Adventists believe to be scriptural motives to faith and repentance; and should never be superseded by any other. The practical use of the doctrine of Christ’s coming is admitted by the apostles in all their preaching. They felt and knew its heart-searching influence. Whether they speak of themselves, or of christians generally, they constantly hold up to view the end of this present dispensation, as a motive to the performance of christian duties, and the means of arousing sinners to repentance. HST January 1, 1845, page 161.21
Though death and the grave be more an object of sense to the natural man, than the coming of the Lord and the Resurrection, and may be employed as an additional argument to induce men to be always ready, yet it is an unscriptural mode of inducing them to repent and live a life of obedience to God. James encourages those to whom he writes to perseverance in the faith of the gospel, not with the hope of the reward at death; but he exhorts them “to be patient until the coming of the Lord.” Peter tells christians “when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” And when admonished that he must shostly put off his fleshly tabernacle, he takes occasion to send an epistle to his brethren, the whole burden of which is to confirm them in the expectation that the present heavens and earth shall be dissolved, and be succeeded by new heavens and a new earth: and moreover, he had followed no cunningly devised fable, when he made known to them the power and coming of the Lord, but had a visible specimen of it on the Mount of Christ’s transfiguration. The hopes of early christians were bound up in the animating prospect of Christ’s Second Advent, as though it might possibly occur in their day. “Our conversation (citizenship) is in heaven, from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Is the coming of the Lord—the crown of glory—the Resurrection—the Rest of God’s people—the salvation to be revealed in the last time—the promised kingdom, objects of sense? Are these topics calculated to bewilder the imagination? Christ and his apostles did not so understand them. They are the principal features of apostolic preaching. The apostles, in presenting the sufferings of Christ, do not overlook the glory that should follow as the reward of the christian’s present sufferings and the accomplishment of his present hopes. “There is nothing,” says Henry, “like a believing view of the glory which shall be revealed, to support and bear up the spirit under all the sufferings of this present time. The reproach of Christ appears riches to those who have respect to the recompense of reward.” There is no reason to doubt but the unholy passions of the hearers will be aroused, and the whole mind become “intoxicated with excitement,” when such hearts either reject, or rejoice not in the coming glory of Christ’s kingdom at hand. Such will never follow Christ fully, by taking joyfully the spoiling of their goods, and in testimony to their faith in the speedy return of the “coming One,” cheerfully go without the camp, bearing his reproach. Those who are familiar with their Bibles, will perceive that God speaks, and not man, by the Advent doctrine. It is not we that arouse men from their awful lethargy, and cause them to act for eternity, but the subduing, melting and purifying truth of the Bible. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.1
If we understand Mr. S. to object to those places where the “Second Advent near” is proclaimed, as though “only the senses and the passions are addressed,” we will briefly say that the preaching of the “Advent near,” has the authority of Jesus Christ; and also the fulfillments of prophecies which relate to Christ’s near approach. The Adventists believe the Savior has pointed out the season in which he may be expected to return, and given the signs by which we should know that he was nigh, “even at the doors.” We believe yet that “the wise will understand,” even should our expectations fail of being realized so soon as we anticipated. That the day of the Lord is near, God’s word decidedly testifies. To use the words of Charlotte Elizabeth, Editor of the Christian Lady’s Magazine—“The time is past when we could regard as a matter of comparative indifference the receiving of this doctrine,—the speedy, personal, pre-millenial appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ. We now feel it to be a matter of such vital importance, that no person rejecting it can rightly understand the Scriptures: and though he may build upon the Rock, and so be personally safe, his work, if he be a minister, certainly will not prove to be either of gold or precious stones. We say now, because the signs are such as to leave men no excuse for closing their eyes any longer against the broad clear light of advancing day.” HST January 1, 1845, page 162.2
The third lesson Mr. Stow learns from this “delusion,” is “the extreme folly of studying into matters which God assures us he has purposely concealed.” This he assures us, “is more than folly; it is wicked presumption.” The Adventists make no pretensions to such “folly.” They believe the Bible to be the Word of God, a Revelation of His will to man. To reject any part of it as either unprofitable, or to consider the time of Christ’s Advent as “purposely concealed,” is the very leaven of infidelity. By the time of Christ’s Advent, I mean the season, or generation in which christians are commanded to watch for his coming, and the time of the end when the vision should be unsealed. It is plainly written that “All Scripture is given by inspiration, and is profitable for doctrine.” To suppose that God would reveal any thing in the Bible which we cannot understand, is virtually saying that a part of Scripture is unprofitable; for that would be of no use which we could not comprehend. The propriety of studying the prophetical Scriptures, to ascertain God’s purposes in this world, so far as they relate to earthly kingdoms and their duration, and so far as they relate to the restoration of the kingdom to Israel, is questioned even by those who profess to teach things concerning the kingdom of God. This is alleged on the ground that unfulfilled prophecy cannot be understood until the event has occurred. But has not unfulfilled prophecy been the great theme of hope and consolation to christians in every age? and does not the whole stress of practical piety rest upon the unfulfilled promises which God has made to his people? Every hope of future glory and every motive to obedience to Christ, are drawn from the study of those prophecies, which so many condemn, as being of any interest to the church. For about 4000 years, God’s ancient people took heed to the first promise, that the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head. Abraham received the promise that he should be heir of the world, and seeing the fulfilment of it afar off, he rejoiced in the day of Christ. Joseph directed, before he died, to have his bones removed, on account of the promise which God made concerning the going out of his people, to which promise the Lord afterwards referred Moses and Aaron, as a pledge that He would deliver them from their enemies. That there are difficulties attending the exposition of prophetical times, we admit—the events are certain. But as the special office of the Spirit is to guide us into all truth, there is reason to believe that we may be so guided, as to understand with sufficient clearness, that the coming of the Lord is near, and that the time of our redemption draweth nigh. Prophecy is to be understood at the time, and by the people of the age for whose special interest it was intended. In this sense we understand the prophecies concerning the Second Advent of Christ. As the prophets, who themselves foretold the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow, did inquire and search diligently what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ, which was in them, did signify, we believed they found it out, and left it on record by prophetic history, and the signs of the times. We have a sure word of prophecy on this important event, unto which we do well to take heed. The event is one which involves the destiny of this world, the eternal interests of mankind. The disciples inquired of their Master, what would be the fate of their city, and what the sign of his coming, and the end of the aionos, or age. We are not of those who feel easy under Christ’s rebukes for not discerning the signs of the times. We have only to add, that to the memorable testimony of the prophets concerning the salvation which they predict should be revealed in the last time, and which they sought and diligently inquired, it becomes every christian to pay a sincere regard. It was not to themselves, but to us that they ministered these things. God has revealed to us sufficient evidence, by which we are to know when Christ’s Second Advent is near, and it is the height of infidelity to suppose that Christ would tell us, that we might know when his coming was nigh, and yet purposely conceal the evidence from our view. The Adventists are often charged with “wicked presumption,” in endeavoring to explain the Apocalypse, which may be considered the most difficult portion of the whole Bible. But to the Law and the testimony for our defence. “Blessed is he that readeth and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand”—the time of their beginning to be fulfilled. It would be presumptuous indeed to charge the Deity with having given us a prophecy—which, as Horne says, is a “prophetical history of the fate and fortunes of the Christian Church, from the time when it was written to the latest period of the world,”—and pronounce those blessed that read, and hear it, without their being able to understand it. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.3
The fourth lesson to be learned “is, the importance of relying less upon expositors of the sacred oracles, and more on a careful investigation of the Bible for ourselves.” This the Adventists long since adopted as a prominent rule. They have relied “more on a careful investigation of the Bible for” themselves, and less upon its expositors. In so doing they are charged with folly for having discovered, by the light of the Scriptures, about the time their Lord may be expected. To such we have only to say, “that after the way which some call heresy, so worship we the God of our fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and the prophets,” (studying them for ourselves,) “and have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and of the unjust. And herein do we exercise ourselves to have always a conscience void of offence toward God and toward man.” HST January 1, 1845, page 162.4
(To be concluded next week.)
The Old Paths
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The disparity subsisting between the teaching of the Sacred Scriptures and the teaching of the present day:—or, who are in the old paths and who are not. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.5
Jeremiah 6:16. Thus saith the Lord, stand ye in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.6
It is worthy of remark that when any development of Divine truth has been made, or any return to first principles has taken place, the cry of novelty has uniformly and instantly been raised by those who have loved darkness rather than light, and especially by the professed Masters of Israel, their craft being peculiarly in danger. Instance the introduction of Christianity itself, by our Lord and his Apostles:—the Reformation from Popery under Luther and others; and the revival of experimental and practical religion, which distinguished the labors of the Wesleys and their coadjutors. In short, the cry “These are new things!” has ever been the ready, the common-place weapon against the truth as it is in Jesus. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.7
This is eminently the case now. A great and glorious development of Biblical truth in relation to the appearing and kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ, has marked our day:—not a new revelation of truth, but a new evolution of truth before revealed. And nothing is more common than for its opponents, and especially the sectarian teachers. (the modern rulers or pharisees,) to charge it with being novel or new. No charge, however, was ever worse founded. Those who prefer it betray either great dishonesty, or great ignorance of what is taught in Holy Writ. The Advent Faith, in its fundamental parts, is substantially the Ancient Faith—the faith of the Patriarchs, the Prophets and the Apostles. The Advent believers are identified, in their hopes, with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; with Samuel, David, Isaiah and Daniel; with Paul, Peter, James and John;—yea, with the teachers and members of the Church during her best and purest ages. And we hope in some measure to make this appear. We “should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” HST January 1, 1845, page 162.8
Our subject is, The disparity subsisting between the teaching of the Sacred Scriptures and the teaching of the present day. And we trust it will be seen, in the light of what may be advanced, who are in “the old paths,” and who are in paths of human origin. Of course it will not be expected that we shall exhibit the entire of Scripture teaching, nor the entire of modern teaching; but make a selection of some great leading points which have a direct or indirect bearing on the Faith which the “Lord’s spiritual” brand with being novel or new, and therefore unscriptual, and to be repudiated. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.9
When does the kingdom of God come? The voice of Scripture on this point is, that the fifth kingdom—the kingdom of God, will come at the Second Advent of Jesus Christ, when he shall come as the anointed of God in his kingdom. See Daniel 7:13, 14. Luke 19:11-13. Luke 21:25-31. 2 Timothy 4:1. These passages furnish specimen of the concurrent testimony of Scripture on the question. Its voice is that the kingdom comes at the Second Advent. HST January 1, 1845, page 162.10
The teachings of the present day is that the kingdom of God was established on earth at the first Advent, and is mystical, or is the grace of God in the heart. According to such teaching none had the grace of God prior to the birth of Jesus. A view which thus involves a palpable contradiction must be unsound. As the adherents of modern teaching wish to give their spiritualism an air of Divine authority, they will quote Matthew 16:28—Luke 17:21—1 Corinthians 15:24, passages which, viewed in the light of their respective contexts, triamphantly prove that the kingdom will be introduced at the Second Advent, and be literal. HST January 1, 1845, page 163.1
We say, without fear of successful contradiction, that the idea of the present existence of the kingdom of God on earth, had no place in the Apostolical age, (unless among some who said that the resurrection was past already,) nor until about the end of the second, or beginning of the third century, when a mystical philosophy was corrected with the Christian religion, and when, as a natural consequence, the literal meaning of the Bible was abandoned and a mystical one resorted to. Hence the idea, the kingdom of heaven is come! the reign of Christ is spiritual! This is evidently what made way for the revelation of the man of sin:—the development of ecclesiastical Anti-Christ. This was the ladder on which the Bishop of Rome ascended to the supremacy of the world, and reigned over the kings of the earth for ages. He laid down such as the following dogmas The kingdom of God is come. The reign of Christ is spiritual; he has set one man over the world; and I am the Vicegerent of Jesus on earth. He regarded himself as the Monarch of the fifth kingdom, and the Ministers of religion felt that they were “Ministers of State.” And the sentiment of the spiritual reign has still the same deleterious effect—making men feel that they are “Lords over God’s heritage,” instead of “being ensamples to the flock.” Thus while the Nobleman who has gone into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return, says to his servants “Occupy till I come.” His citizens have hated him, and “sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us;’—He may reign spiritually if he likes, but we will reign literally. “For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come (coming) in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist” (2 John 7.) Why do those teachers who believe that the kingdom is come, continue to pray, “Thy kingdom come?” The kingdom is either come or not come. If it is come, why pray for it to come? If it is not come, why persist in saying it is come? The only way they can escape being put on the horn of a dilemma is to stand on their dignity. HST January 1, 1845, page 163.2
Thus the teaching of Sacred Writ, and the teaching of the present day are fairly at issue. HST January 1, 1845, page 163.3
The Advent believers contend that the kingdom of God will appear when the Nobleman returns. Then, so far, they are in “the old paths,” while those who denounce their Faith as new, are in paths which cannot claim apostolical authority, but owe their being to the suggestions of heathen philosophy. HST January 1, 1845, page 163.4
The next point which we will consider is, The Territory of the Saints’ Inheritance. HST January 1, 1845, page 163.5
The Bible teaches that the earth renewed will be the territory of the Saints’ inheritance. Psalm 37:9, 11, 18, 22, 27, 29, 34.—For evil doers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. But the meek shall inherit the earth: and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever. For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth: and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off. Depart from evil, and do good; and dwell for evermore. The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell for evermore. Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. Isaiah 60:21—Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land forever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified. Daniel 7:17, 18, 22, 27—These great beasts, which are four, are four kings, which shall arise out of the earth. But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever. Until the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High; and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. Matthew 5:5—Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Revelation 5:10—And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. But to view the subject still more understandingly, glance for a moment at the Abrahamic Covenant; Genesis 13:14, 15. Romans 4:13. Galatians 3:16, 39. Thus we are conducted to the conclusion that the Scriptures teach the earth is the promised territory of the saints. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.1
The earth is to be renewed before they possess it. It is “the purchased possession,” yet it waits to be redeemed. Ephesians 1:13, 14—In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also, after that ye believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. Isaiah 65:17—For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. 2 Peter 3:10-13—But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Revelation 21:1, 5—And I Saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. Matthew 19:28—And Jesus said unto them, Verily, I say unto you. That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Acts 3:21—Whom the heavens must receive, until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets, since the world began. If any thing is plain in the Bible, it is that the earth renewed will be the territorial inheritance of the righteous. Its voice is unequivocal on this point. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.2
Modern teachers ridicule the obvious view presented in the Scriptures, and remove the territory of the good into some distant region, nobody knows where, and the Masters of Israel cannot tell where. Sometimes indeed they say, (I used to say it once,) that it is “beyond the bounds of space.” And that perhaps is the most pertinent definition they could give; for it the inheritance of the saints is not the renewed earth, it is in truth beyond the bounds of “space,” that is, it is nowhere, it does not exist. That which is beyond the bounds of space is beyond the bounds of existence. No wonder that Christians so taught should cling with such tenacity to this world! It is hard to give up a certainty for an uncertainty! No wonder that the Infidel should laugh at the heaven of Christians, and represent them as seated on the clouds and singing Psalms to all eternity! Only let the plain, simple truth be preached, and the mouth of the Infidel will be closed, and Christians will feel that they are strangers and pilgrims in a land which they will possess when restored to more than its pristine glory. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.3
Those teachers who have not as yet publicly denied the second coming of Christ and the Resurrection, represent the saints as meeting Christ in the clouds, and then ascending with him to distant and unknown regions, while the Scriptures do not even intimate his going away subsequently to his appearing the second time. They speak about his standing upon the earth at the last day, (Job 19:25.) They say, “the Lord my God shall come and all the saints with thee, and the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day there shall be one Lord and his name one; and men shall dwell in it, and there shall be no more utter destruction, but Jerusalem shall be safely inhabited,” (Zechariah 14:5-11.) “And the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David; and he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end,” (Luke 1:32, 33.) But not a word about Christ and his saints going away No, no. “Such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that he cursed of him shall he cut off,” (Psalm 37:22, compared with Matthew 25:34, 41.) HST January 1, 1845, page 164.4
Thus the teaching of the Bible as to the territory allotted the saints for their future inheritance, and that of modern teachers are diametrically opposed. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.5
The Adventists believe, with the Scriptures, that the earth renewed will be the abode of the saints. Hence they are in “the old paths,” while those who are trying to crush them and their faith are in new paths. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.6
The event for which we are to prepare. The Scriptures teach that we are to prepare for the judgment—that in all our department we are to look to the Second Coming of Christ and the Resurrection. See Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; Matthew 24:44; 25:13; Mark 13:34, 37; Luke 21:34-36; Acts 3:19-21; 17:30, 31; 2 Corinthians 5:9, 10, 11; Philippians 3:20, 21; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 3:13; 5:23, 24; 2 Thessalonians 3:5; 1 Timothy 6:13, 14; Titus 2:11-13; Hebrews 9:28; James 5:7, 8; 1 Peter 1:3-4, 7; 2 Peter 3:10-14; 1 John 2:28; 3:2, 3; Revelation 16:15; 22:20. The above passages show that the cry of the Scriptures is, prepare for the judgment; think, speak and act with a constant eye on the coming of Jesus, and the change of our vile bodies. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.7
The language of modern teachers is, Prepare for death; get ready for the grave! To give a kind of Scriptural sanction to such teaching, they will repeat the Lord’s words to Hezekiah, “Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die and not live,” (2 Kings 20:1,) in which the pious king is instructed to set the kingdom of the house of David in order prior to his dissolution. The indwelling of the Holy Ghost prepares us for the appearing and kingdom of Christ. We can sink into the embrace of death and the grave without this: hence this is not our preparation for death and the grave. We cannot be raised, changed and glorified with Christ at his Second Advent without this; therefore this is our preparation for the Second Advent. We may die and be buried before the Lord comes, but we are no where in the Bible told to prepare for these. We are to seek to have part in the first resurrection. when the Lord himself shall descend from heaven. “If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.” The following illustration will simplify the Scriptural view of the subject. A person is going to a feast, an appropriate preparation is requisite, he must make it before he leaves home, however the preparation is not to leave home, but for the feast. So we are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb; holiness is the required qualification, we must secure it before death, (should we not be among those who shall not sleep,) still the qualification is not for death and the grave, but for the marriage supper. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.8
Thus the teaching of the Sacred Scriptures and the teaching of the present day are at variance. The one pointing us to the price of death, coming to put us in the grave; the other, to the Prince of life, coming to take us out of the grave. The one says, prepare for death, the other, prepare for life. The one says, prepare for the tomb, the other, for coming out of it. These modern teachers need the admonition of Paul to Timothy, “Hold fast the form of sound words.” HST January 1, 1845, page 164.9
The sentiment of the Advent believers is, that we are, in imitation of the primitive Christians, to have constant reference to the second coming of Jesus and the resurrection, whether they are just upon us or not. In this respect, then, they are in “the old paths,” while those who are charging their views with being new, are in paths which can lay no claim to antiquity. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.10
The Scriptures teach that the reward of the saints is given at the Second Advent of Jesus. Matthew 16:27; 25:31, 34; Luke 12:32-38; 14:14; John 14:1-3; Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10; 2 Timothy 4:18; Hebrews 10:35, 37; 1 Peter 1:3-7; 5:4; 1 John 3:2; Revelation 22:12. This array of testimony shows that the saints are rewarded when Jesus shall appear the second time. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.11
The modern teaching on this subject is, that the saints are rewarded at death; that the departed are possessed of crowns on their heads and palms in their hands! yea, have entered the kingdom of God! HST January 1, 1845, page 164.12
Thus the teaching of the Word of God and the teaching of the churches are in opposition. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.13
Those who are looking for that blessed hope; believe that the saints are rewarded at the Second Coming of Jesus and the resurrection of the just. Hence they must be in “the old paths.” HST January 1, 1845, page 164.14
The Scriptures teach that the Millennium will commence at the end of the world; be ushered in by the Second Advent and the first resurrection. See Daniel 7:21, 22; Matthew 13:38-43; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 20; 5, 6. The voice of Revelation is clear on the matter. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.15
The churches say that there is to be a thousand years of universal holiness and peace, before the end of the world and the coming of Christ, produced by the preaching of the Gospel. Those who advocate the notion, quote such passages as Psalm 2:8; Isaiah 65:25; Revelation 11:15; but a mere child in Biblical knowledge cannot but see that they wrest them, as they do also the other Scriptures. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.16
The Adventists believe that the Millennium will begin at the appearing of Jesus, to raise his dead and change his living saints. Therefore they are in the old paths, while those who oppose them are in the new. R. Hutchinson. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.17
Waterloo, Canada East, Dec. 7th, 1844.
Advent Herald & Reporter
No Authorcode
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, JANUARY 1, 1845.
A New Year
JVHe
By time’s onward, irresistless progress, we find ourselves at the commencement of another New Year,—at one of those great chronological landmarks, where we may well pause and take a retrospect of the past. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.18
The year just expired has been one of great interest to all Advent believers. At its commencement, few of us expected that at the present moment we should be sojourners here. It has been a year memorable for the trial of the faith of God’s children, and for the expiration of the times indicated by our chronology, for the termination of the prophetic periods. In the ushering in of the past year, the world hoped the time had come when all who had looked for the Lord would relinquish their hopes—that A. D. 1843 having expired, all would cease longer to expect the Master’s return. But not so; it was the Jewish year, and not the Gregorian year in which Adventists expected their King. Again, its termination was not the 21st of March, as many thought, so that those who wished not for Him to reign over them were longer kept in suspense, impatient at the length of ‘43, and which they almost believed to be “elastic.” HST January 1, 1845, page 164.19
But it past, the Jewish sacred year expired, and yet the Adventists returned not back,—relinquished not their faith. Having taken their lamps and gone forth to meet the Bridegroom, they looked not behind them, but nobly stood the trial of their faith, resolved to wait the summons of their King. Occupying that position, they were every where electrified with a new proclamation of the “time.” And again the fears of those who desired not the Lord’s return were manifested, mingled with bitter hate. But on the part of God’s children, how different was the effect. They, with pleasure, listened to the joyful sound, and looked forward with eager anticipations to a speedy realization of all their hopes. Nothing will sooner test one’s friendship for Christ than to tell them of his coming. Are they his friends, they manifest the pleasure his coming would give them. Are they his enemies, their hatred of his coming cannot be well disguised. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.20
It was thus that the faith of men has been, the past year, manifest before the world. The largest portion have scoffed and mocked, and demonstrated their unfitness for the kingdom. But others have demonstrated their sincerity in their faith. Yes, we have the past year seen just how men would conduct in relation to time, as well as in reference to eternity, when they believe from their inmost souls, that in a few days they will stand in the presence of their Judge. Such another moral spectacle as was then presented, was never before witnessed on the earth. Men have faced horrid deaths and dangers dire; they have gone forth to battle with bold hearts, in defence of their king; they have offered themselves willing victims in defence of their faith; but never before was exhibited the moral spectacle of thousands of intelligent beings, scattered over a vast expanse of country, all, as one man, coming up to a definite day, expecting that it would be honored by the descent of the Lord himself from heaven, in flaming fire, taking vengeance on them who know not God. Yes, it has been our privilege to gaze upon a moral phenomenon, a spectacle most sublime, and one on which angels might look with awe and wonder. It was an event which may be recalled with satisfaction, by those who participated in its hopes, ages after they have passed beyond this “dim obscure,” as one of those short seasons when there was in time a heaven on earth. That day must therefore be a day, prominent in time, to be remembered in eternity. And the event may shortly prove, that it was but the dawning of a greater day—a prelude to time’s closing scene. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.21
But as that was a time of hope, of joyous anticipation, and of the trial of our faith; so was it also a time of bitter disappointment. Multitudes who expected to bid adieu to this sin-cursed earth, and to take up their abode in the New Jerusalem, to live forever in their Savior’s presence, were left to toil and struggle here in the enemy’s country—but not without hope. No, that has not forsaken God’s own children. Amid all the disappointments they have been called to pass, their faith in the nearness of Christ’s coming has never failed them, so that the Adventists are now, every where, as strong in faith, as determined and persevering, as studious of God’s word and as confidently expecting their Lord, as they were a year ago. And though in our time, we were disappointed, and are still strangers and sojourners here as all our fathers were, yet we are still expecting that in a little while, this sin-cursed earth will be transformed, renewed, regenerated, and be the residence of saints. Yes, we still hope that shortly the barren heaths, and worn out sandy plains, and deserts wastes of this earth’s old worn out surface, will all be covered over with living verdure; that soon the wilderness will bloom and blossom as the rose, become again as Eden, and the desert as the Garden of the Lord, and that Jerusalem will be the rejoicing of every waiting saint, and her children a joy to the whole earth, when the days of our mourning will be ended. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.22
It is not, therefore, with dark desponding hopes, or fainting hearts, we greet this New Year’s morn. Our hopes are ‘big with immortality.’ The glorious future is as bright as ever. Fair Salem’s golden spires reflect as dazzling rays, the pearly gates of the New Jerusalem open as temptingly, the trees of life as invitingly present their golden fruits, and the evidence of our soon reaching there is still as strong as ever. Well may we, therefore, be willing to tarry here in patience, waiting for our Lord from heaven; and we can greet this year as adding one more to the number of years that make up the time appointed, another evidence that the 6000 must be near complete. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.23
How short is time! How swift our moments roll! Year after year, in quick succession, have been added to the long vista of ages gone, and yet to the angelic host, ‘tis but as yesterday, since first the morning stars together sang for joy over a new made Earth. To them ‘tis but as yesterday since Eden in all its beauty bloomed, and man in innocence walked amid her bowers and plucked ambrosial fruit. And yet what changes have been wrought in the brief space of earth’s career—to angels, brief; six thousand years to man. Alas! no tongue can tell, or pencil paint. The records of eternity will alone disclose the wrong, and crime, and misery, and distress, and overturnings of states and empires, which have resulted from the curse. Earth’s surface has been crimsoned over with blood;—her fairest fields been cumbered with the slain. Her history is one of rapine, cruelty and wrong:—rivers of blood and murdered multitudes have swelled the ocean of her guilt. And sad indeed would be her fate, if this apostate earth must always thus continue; if man must always war against his fellow man. But God has revealed a glorious future, the earth made new; and he has given us indications of the nearness of its change. Yes, from the occurrence of events, in accordance with the predictions of God’s word, we have reached the very crisis of this world’s history, when this earth will disclose her blood and will no more cover her slain. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.24
Being then at so interesting a period in the history of this world, and being brought down to the close of another year, we should not be unmindful of the close of our probationary course. And while we should continually live in readiness for the coming of the Judge, yet at the close of an eventful year, we may well examine anew our hope and our readiness for so incomparable an event. We are now where we need to watch continually, to pray always, to see that our loins are continually girt about and our lights ever burning. Let all see to it, that in the commencement of another year, they commence anew to serve the Lord, and to labor more energetically than ever to win souls to Christ. Then, in “so doing,” at what moment the trump of the Archangel shall be heard, all such will be in readiness to enter that world where sin and change and crime will be forever unknown. Then the year of the redeemed will have come, a new year indeed, a year which will be an epoch in eternity. When that is ushered in, may it be a happy new year to all of you, dear readers, and to us. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.25
The Termination of the Prophetic Periods
JVHe
It has been already shown that to complete the prophetic periods, it would be necessary to extend them as far into A. D. 1844 as they respectively commenced after the beginning of the respective years B. C. from which they were dated; and as we have no clue to the time in those respective years when the several events transpired from which the prophetic periods have been reckoned, it would be necessary for A. D. 1844 to expire, to disprove our dates for their commencement, or the accuracy of the chronologies, by which we have been guided. That year has now expired. We have consequently now reached a point of time to which none of the prophetic periods can be extended, if time has been correctly marked, and our dates for their commencement were correct. We must therefore acknowledge that we were either premature in those dates, or that human chronology is not perfectly accurate. In arriving at our chronological conclusions, we have followed those chronologies which have been considered as the most authentic. There is however a disagreement among the several chronologers respecting the dates of the several events from which we have reckoned the prophetic periods; but which is all harmonized within the circle of a few years. The chronologers which we have followed have placed the date of the respective events at the earliest point within this circle. But as other chronologers have assigned to them a later point of time, we are justly entitled to all the time which is in dispute among them, before our position can in any way be materially affected, or its chronological bearings tested. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.26
The seven times, or 2520 years of the Jewish subversion, we have always dated from the captivity of Manasseh. This captivity is placed in B. C. 677, or the year 4037 of the Julian Period, in the 22nd year of Manasseh’s reign, by Dr. Prideaux, Arch-Bishop Usher, Jackson, Playfair, Blair and others; Guthrie, Horne, and Calmet, date it B. C. 676, Dr. Hales, B. C. 675, (as the Jews in Seder Olam Rabba, and the Talmudists, date it, See Ganz, p. 45) and Dr. Jarvis, B. C. 674. HST January 1, 1845, page 164.27
We reckon the 2450 years of the Great Jubilee from the captivity of Jehoiakim in the fourth year of his reign. This is dated B C. 607. by Ptolemy Petavius, Usher, etc.; but Playfair, Whiston, Prideaux, and others date it from B. C. 606; while Berosus, Blair, Jackson and Dr. Hales date it in B. C. 605. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.1
The 2300 days we begin at the commencement of the 70 weeks, at the going forth of the decree to restore and build Jerusalem, in the seventh year of the reign of Artaxerxes Longimanus. B. C. 457, is assigned as the date of this decree, by Blair, Prideaux, Ferguson, Horne, Watson, Ptolemy, and the great majority of commentators. Other chronologers reckon the 70 weeks from the twentieth year of Artaxerxes. Usher, Petavius, and others thus reckon, and date from the year 4260 of the Julian Period, or B. C. 454. Hengstenberg dates it and reckons from B. C. 455. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.2
The “seven weeks, and the sixty and two weeks,” or 69 weeks to the commencement of Christ’s ministry, terminated, acccording to our chronology, A. D. 27, at Christ’s baptism. In this we were sustained by Dr. Hales and others; but Prideaux, Ferguson, and others, who terminate the 69 weeks, in A. D. 26, contend that they terminated with the baptism of John, and that our Savior was not baptized till three years later; while Usher, Petavius, Hengstenberg, Lydyiat, and others extend the sixty-nine weeks to A. D. 29 or 30. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.3
The crucifixion of our Savior is dated in the years 31, 32, 33, and 34, from the vulgar era, by different chronologists.—Dr. Hales contends that it was A. D. 31; while Sir Isaac Newton argues that it was in A. D. 34. Scaliger, Usher, Pearson, Bacon, and others argue that it was in A. D. 33. Ferguson, Prideaux, Bullinger, Blair and others, terminate the 70 weeks at the crucifixion; while Lydyiat, Usher, Petavius, and others, extend them three and a half years beyond. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.4
It will be seen by the above that there is a disagreement among chronologers respecting the dates of the events from which we have severally reckoned the prophetic periods. And yet that disagreement is all within a circle of a very few years. It will also be seen, that reckoning any of the prophetic periods from the latest dates whieh are assigned by any standard chronologers for the events from which we have reckoned them, they cannot be extended beyond A. D. 1817; while there are intermediate points between the present and that year, when they would terminate, if reckoned from other given dates. As this ground is “disputed territory,” and as there are chronologers of note, which, if followed in their dates, would terminate the several periods at various points within this disputed circle, we are certainly entitled to all the time thus in dispute, before it can be proved that our chronology or the several events from which we have reckoned, are incorrect. We have followed those chronologers which are admitted to be the most authentic, and have adopted those dates which are considered to be the best sustained—It is now proved that those which we have followed are not perfectly accurate; and while there is a variation, from perfect accuracy, it cannot be shown whether that variation is one day, one year, more, or less; nor can it be shown which of the several chronologers within the disputed circle, who in any way vary from the ones we have followed, are the most accurate. The dates of others may be as much too late, as those we have followed have been too early. It will, therefore, be time enough to look to them when all the intervening time shall have expired. And the authority no which such are predicated, is far more questionable than that on which we have relied. While, therefore, we are satisfied that the truth is among the chronologers referred to, we are unable to decide which of them presents the best evidence of its possession. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.5
The Olive Branch—Another Budget of Lies
JVHe
The following letter was published in the Olive Branch of Nov. 23rd—a fit receptacle of such false-falsehoods. It there purports to be a private letter to a man in Boston, which was loaned the editor of that paper for the purpose of exhibiting the fruits of the Advent doctrine. We have concluded to republish it with the facts in the case, for the purpose of exhibiting the abominable hypocrisy and shameless wickedness of our opposers. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.6
W, Vt., Oct. 20, 1844. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.7
Ever dear and beloved Brothers and Sisters,—I have sad news to communicate to you. Our sister is no more. She died, as near as we can learn, on Tuesday evening at six o’clock; and thus she lay till Thursday afternoon, before she was laid out (1). Mr. did not intend to have her buried at all, but keep her till Christ should come and receive her (2). No one knew she was dead until Wednesday noon, when Mrs. happened to go in, and let the news of her death be known (3). There were about twenty-five Millerites in the house at the time, who endeavored to restore her to life, and shouted for eighteen hours; but found they had not the power to accomplish their wishes. The town authorities being notified of the state of affairs, came and cleared out the Millerites and took four of them to jail, where I am happy to state they still remain (4). HST January 1, 1845, page 165.8
An inquest was held upon the body, when it was decided that her death was mainly induced by the great excitement to which her mind had been subjected (5). Meetings day and night, had been held in the house for the space of three weeks or more (6). Her husband is giving away his property as fast as he can (7). He has not performed any labor for the last two or three weeks. Every thing is going to destruction as fast as possible;—all his corn, potatoes, and pumpkins, are unharvested, as he believes they will not be wanted. His oats were not cut, but the cattle were turned in to commit their destructive depredations (8). H, M and D, are in the same way, and my dear relatives, it is getting to be a very alarming business (9). They have had one Mr. F. here, preaching the Miller doctrine, and he has been proved to be a very licentions man. He tells his hearers that it is not sinful to have intercourse with other men’s wives.(10). It is tho’t Mr.—has kept a complete bawdy house for the last 3 weeks. Certain it is he has had the worst of all characters there in the shape of twelve or fifteen girls, all the while (11). A more blinded or more infatuated set of people cannot well be conceived of. Could I see you I would enter into full detail, but as I cannot, this outline must suffice. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.9
And now, in concluding, dear brothers and sisters, I beg and beseech of you, yes and pray to God that you will reject the Miller doctrine. It is all a wicked delusion. Strive to set your hearts right with God, and thus meet with dutiful obedience his various dispensations. Follow after no man-devised periods of your earthly termination, for to none hath the Father communicated his intentions respecting the world’s overthrow, not even to his only begotten Son, as we have abundant Scriptural evidence.—Be sincere Christians; love mercy and walk humbly before God, and thus be prepared for Christ when Death shall meet you. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.10
Your ever affectionate brother,
The following are the facts in the case as attested by eye witnesses of the scene, to whom we wrote for the particulars, as we concluded the Olive Branch was at one of its old tricks. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.11
Dear Brother Bliss.—Yours of Dec. 8th was received the 17th inst. The letter in the Olive Branch to which reference is made, was written from Wardsboro, Vt., by Adams Twitchell, a brother of the deceased, who formerly resided in Boston, but now resides in W. In reference to the statements in the letter, I remark:— HST January 1, 1845, page 165.12
1. The deceased was my wife, Mrs. Sarah Young of Jamacia, Vt. She died Tuesday, at 6, P. M., the 15th of Oct. It is true that she was not laid out until Thursday, P. M. for the following reason. At 8 A.M. on Wednesday, David Eddy and Dr. Joel Holton, two justices of” the peace and members of the Church with which we were formerly connected, came to my house and stated that a jury of inquest must be held upon the body of my wife, and that she must therefore remain as she then was. And they had possession of her remains from 8 A. M. of Wednesday, until they saw fit to bury her on Friday. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.13
2. That I “did not intend to have her buried,” I never expressed any such intention. I did not think she was dead, and until the next morning thought she was in a trance, and would revive. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.14
3. That “no one knew of her death.” On the following morning as soon as I was convinced of her death, about 4 A. M. I despatched messengers to as many of her friends as I could, informing them of the circumstances of her death; and by noon the house was thronged by individuals from the adjoining towns. In the morning, Mrs. Sophia Gleason, an enemy of myself and wife, hearing of her death, called in to see her, and circulated the intelligence abroad. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.15
4. In reference to this statement we insert the following testimony:— HST January 1, 1845, page 165.16
About one year since the houses of public worship were closed against us, after which we held our meetings at private houses. We met at Bro. Ira Young’s occasionally until the present time. On the 8th of October and the day following, Bro. Flagg preached to us; after that we had prayer meetings each day of that week. On the 12th, several of the town authorities assembled, among whom were Benj. Muzzy, Sam. Cheney, J. Brown, and Ira Field. Muzzey and Brown addressed us, and advised us to break up our meetings, to save trouble, and intimated that if we did not we must suffer the consequences. On Sunday, the 13th we had prayers and exhortations from several of the brethren, while the house was surrounded by a mob, which threw large stones upon it, with many other hellish schemes. On the 14th we had no meeting. So that our meetings had not continued a week. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.17
On the 15th, at about 10 A. M. sister Young, and one other person were taken very ill. Soon afterwards five or six others were taken in like manner, with very excruciating pains attended with a parching thirst, and lasting from six to eight hours. 27Bro. Peavy thinks this was the result of poison. Sister Young had been of very feeble health, subject to a chronic disease, for about two years past. She did not think she was dying, and we supposed she had sunk into a trance; and we had faith to believe she would revive, until the rabble began to throng the house, and the authority took her body into their possession contrary to the wishes of her friends, and called an inquest. Then certain individuals, whom they considered leaders, were called upon to swear 28The brethren expressed their willingness to testify, if they could do so without taking an oath. respecting the cause of her death; and some were heard to say, “take the leaders and that will break up the nest:” little did they think our leader is the King of kings. Those they called our leaders refused to take an oath, 29James 5:12, “But above all things my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea, be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.” viz. L. Hooper, of Walpole, N. H; O. Gibson, of Grafton, Vt.; Wm. B. Maynard and Stephen Pratt of Jamaica, whom they put in jail for refusing to compromise their principles. They then took posession of the house, and attempted to drive the Adventists from it, and manifested no regard for the feelings of our brother. Thus mob law reigned. That night a committee of six, including one of the chief rabbins, were selected to watch her body lest her friends, as was reported, should bury her, and say she had gone up! They bade the officer to clear the house of every Adventist, but he refused; while some of the rabbies endeavored to induce our brother to give up his faith. The above is strictly true, and can be attested by twenty-five witnesses, if necessary. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.18
M. Twitchell, Eliza Allen, Philura Kingsbury, Mary Kingsbury, D. Twitchell, Louisa Twitchell, M. Kingsbury, W. Kingsbury, Z. J. Wood, Alvira Wood, Asa Kingsbury, Lusina Kingsbury, Lovna Kingsbury, Harriet Kingsbury, Hannah Clough, J. Higgins, Angeline Kingsbury. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.19
The above are eye witnesses, HST January 1, 1845, page 165.20
Stephen Pratt. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.21
5. The verdict of the jury. This was, that she came to her death from a chronic disease of her lungs, aggravated by recent fatigue and excitement. HST January 1, 1845, page 165.22
6. We had had meetings at my house only occasionally until one week previous to her death. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.1
7. With regard to giving away my property, it is true that I have parted with some of the goods, with which God has entrusted me, to my poorer brethren who were suffering; but I still have more to give, when suffering humanity shall call for it. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.2
8. With regard to my not working, I would say, I have the consciousness of not being an idle man; and I have done all I thought necessary on my farm, and never suffered anything to be destroyed. My remaining time I have worked for the Lord. Believing in the tenth day of the seventh month, I acted in accordance with my faith, and, therefore, did not harvest my crops until it was past. They were then gathered and put into my barn. My oats were previously harvested, with the exception of a small patch where they were light, which I reserved for my horse, as I wanted them; and my cattle ate a few of them. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.3
9. “Hollis, Micah and David Twitchell are in the same way,” etc. These are brothers to the deceased. This statement is also false: Hollis and Micah harvested their crops as early as usual; and David left a part of his until the time passed. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.4
10. This is also false. Bro. Flagg has been with us some; but he has never been proved to be a bad man, or been known to make allusions of this nature. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.5
11. This eleventh statement from beginning to end is entirely false; and I challenge them for the proof of any thing of the kind. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.6
Thus you have a true statement of the facts. I wish you would present a copy of these to the editor of the Olive Branch for publication. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.7
Yours in the blessed hope. Ira Young. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.8
We the undersigned being eye witnesses of the above facts, do testify to the truth of the above statement. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.9
David Twitchell,
Micah Twitchell,
Sophronia Twitchell,
Hollis Twitchell, HST January 1, 1845, page 166.10
Louisa Twitchell. Brothers and sisters of the deceased, and of the writer of the letter in the Olive Branch. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.11
| Wm. B. Maynard, | Harriet Kingsbury, |
| Z. I. Wood, | Alvira Kingsbury, |
| M. Kingsbury, | Angelina Kingsbury. |
It will be seen from the above evidence that the letter in the Olive Branch is as destitute of truth as the columns of that paper usually are. Our brother, however, need not suppose that paper will publish a correction of those falsehoods, unless he is convinced the Ethiopian may change his skin, or the leopard his spots. The letter referred to is just such a production as we should suppose that paper would select from the kennels of moral pollution for its columns. Those who possess no love for the appearing of Christ, are unable to conceive how it can be otherwise than an object of terror to others; and being ignorant of all principles of honor or honesty, they take it for granted that all others are actuated by the same principles that actuate themselves, and that others do as they would under the same circumstances. They are, therefore, ready to ascribe the basest motives to all who are looking for the Lord; and are ready to believe every lie is a fact in proof of the consequences of “Millerism.” HST January 1, 1845, page 166.12
We have witnessed within a few months past strange disclosures. If a generous hearted Christian gives away a few dollars to a poor brother, he is said to waste his property; if he spend much time in prayer, they think him crazy; and the houses of many of our brethren have actually been stoned because they sheltered those who were committing the crimes of singing hymns, exhorting their brethren to faithfulness, and praying to God. Now will a man of prayer consider that an act of insanity? No, never. Nor will those who love to sing the songs of Zion, consider that an insane act. Neither will the benevolent man chide him who feeds the hungry and clothes the naked.—When, therefore, such outcries are raised, we have evidence that they are made by prayerless men; by men who would see the hungry starve before they would deny themselves anything for their relief. Therefore, gentlemen, when you thus judge, you confess your own shame. When you thus condemn others, you unmask yourselves and exhibit the hideous deformity of your own souls. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.13
It is time the editors of the Olive Branch were reminded of the old proverb,—“They that dwell in glass houses should not throw stones at the dwellings of their neighbors.” We should suppose the senior editor of that paper had had enough to do with glass-houses to keep that in mind. And we should not be surprised if his colleague had taken leave of absence on reading the eleventh statement in the letter he was so anxious to “borrow” for the use of his columns. We have a rod in pickle for these gentlemen (?) should circumstances hereafter call for a chapter of their history. It is useless for them to speak of ‘the obtuseness of their heads;’ the difficulty is farther down. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.14
Encouraging
JVHe
Amid all the efforts which have been made, within the last few weeks, to weaken the confidence of our friends, we are gratified with the steadfastness of their faith, and their determination to persevere unto the coming of the Lord, whatever obstacles may be thrown in their path. But few have been persuaded to give up their faith: and yet, in their places, God has raised up others to keep our number good. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.15
Great efforts have been made to lessen the circulation of the Herald. Many have taken it out of mere curiosity; and to others it has been sent gratuitously. Quite a number of these classes have considered the present a fit opportunity to discontinue the paper. Some have been discontinued by Post Masters, merely because they were not called for by the subscribers punctually; and some of those have been re-ordered again. Others have stopped their papers and paid up, who were indebted for several volumes. Such cases have been a clear gain, as were the stoppage of papers sent gratuitously. While others still, who are indebted for quite a number of volumes, have stopped, saying nothing about their indebtedness. All this has however been counterbalanced by the efforts of our friends to add to our subscription list those who are willing to aid us in our labors. On looking over our list of new subscribers, in comparison with the discontinuances, we find that during the month, ending Dec. 28th, we have lost 90 old subscribers, including delinquents, and those who received their papers gratuitously. But the number of new subscribers, whose names have been added to our list during the same time, is 100—an increase of ten. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.16
We hope our friends will see to it that our list is kept good; and we shall be under continued and renewed obligations to them. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.17
The Question Book on Daniel, has been adopted in several schools, and teachers and scholars have been highly pleased with it. A sister in the country writes: “The questions on Daniel are admirably adapted to instruct my son.” We hope they will be generally introduced into the families of our brethren. Price 12 1-2.—Mid. Cry. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.18
Brother Himes writes from Montpelier, Vt., Dec. 23rd, that the Advent cause is rising and prospering in every place he has visited on his present tour. We hope to hear an account of his recent labors soon. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.19
A Picture of the Churches by A Baptist
JVHe
Until very recently, it has been customary for one or another of the great political parties to hold a caucus in Faneuil Hall, on the Sabbath evening preceding the annual State election. It seems a substitute has been found that is regarded as quite satisfactory. On the Sabbath before the late election, several ministers of the gospel, participating in the general excitement, delivered discourses upon the duties of Christians with respect to politics. A gentleman of this city, a politician of the first water, having heard one of these discourses, said to his friend as they retired together from the house of God, “Well, Capt., was not that a brilliant production? If it had been delivered in Faneuil Hall, it would have been a first rate Whig speech. It will tell finely at the poles to-morrow. We can afford to give up our Sunday evening caucus, if our ministers will only give us such sermons.” “Yes,” replied the Captain, “it is very hand-somely done; but I have my doubts whether such discourses are appropriate to the Chrisian Sabbath, or the Christian pulpit.” HST January 1, 1845, page 166.20
Two young gentlemen were returning, a few evenings since, from a temperance meeting, held in a house dedicated to the worship of God. “How very interesting,” said one of them, “were the services. I liked that dialougue exceedingly, and the singing of the glee club was admirable! admirable!! But above all I enjoyed the speech of the Rev. Mr.——I wonder if that is the style of his preaching? Did you ever hear a more funny speaker?”—“I have been highly gratified,” answered the other; “I never was more so at the theatre. We need not complain that our theatres are turned into churches, if they will only have such performances in the churches, and especially if the ministers will be the actors, and deacons the stage managers.” HST January 1, 1845, page 166.21
“I like my Sunday school better than yours,” said one boy to another. “You study the Bible—that old book—at your school, and say the Catechism, and sing Watts’ Psalms and Hymns. We study Natural History, and have beautiful diagrams, and cabinets of shells and minerals. Last Sunday our Superintendent explained to us the steam-engine. I like that; there is some sense in it.”—Christian Watchman. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.22
Letter from Brother E. Jacobs
JVHe
Dear Brother Himes:—The believers in the speedy coming of our glorious Lord, in this place, are firm and steadfast in the faith. We rejoice with you at the very many tokens of God’s favor, especially in enabling you to prosecute your work in sending out the “Advent Herald,” and “Midnight Cry,” to comfort the saints that are scattered abroad, in this, the time of their peculiar trial. Surely that God who “turned the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness,” has not forgotten to bring to nought the counsel of your enemies. We sympathize with you in your trials, and pray for you and your associates in the East. We would have sent you a formal token of our confidence, but judged such formality needless on the part of those that are living in daily expectation that God will vindicate the cause of his people “at his appearing and kingdom.” Some of the secular papers in this region have had the fairness to retract the false statements they have published against yon. HST January 1, 1845, page 166.23
Our meetings are well attended. Congregations larger than they were previous to the late excitement, and increasing peace, harmony and love prevails. The firm belief among us generally is, that the Lord will come before the present Jewish year terminates. Yesterday morning I lectured in the Tabernacle, upon the nature and importance of Christian Love. In the afternoon, the Lord’s Supper was administered, about 200 partook. It was a refreshing season. In the evening I read to a good congregation, the “address to the opposers of our hope,” from the “Herald.” I have lately heard from the little bands at Dayton, Jacksonboro, Mulberry, and Aurora, and Rising Sun in Ind. They are all firm in the faith, very few cases of apostacy. Our paper is occasionally published, by the earnest solicitation of our friends in this place, and in the surrounding country. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.1
I can give you but a faint idea of the eagerness with which the papers from the East—the Herald, and the Cry, were sought for, after the tenth of the seventh month. The anxiety was for evidence well authenticated, that “the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” On this point, nothing that has appeared has given more satisfaction, and imparted more comfort to us, than the valuable letters of brother Miller, and brother F. G. Brown. O how much of the spirit of heaven is breathed into our souls; when we examine the ground upon which we stand, and “KNOW that our Redemption draweth nigh!” HST January 1, 1845, page 167.2
We have had our trials, but they have done us good—they have wrought “patience,” and we are still striving to “let patience have her perfect work,” that we may be found “perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” HST January 1, 1845, page 167.3
I had designed to spend the most of my time in lecturing in the surrounding country, but, at the earnest solicitations of the brethren, I have labored in this place since my return from New York, with the exception of a short visit to Louisville, Ky., and Madison, Ind., where I found the brethren in good spirits. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.4
The labors of brother Christian, (formerly a Baptist preacher,) is a valuable acquisition to the second advent ranks in Louisville. Yours, waiting for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of the Great God, and our Savior Jesus Christ. E. Jacobs. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.5
Letter from Brother H. Munger
JVHe
Dear brethren and sister’s in the blessed hope of soon seeing our King. We are still watching, and patiently waiting for the resurrection of the righteous, that have fallen asleep in Jesus. We have been disappointed in not joining that blessed host before now; but our disappointment does not discourage us, more than Elisha’s did him, when he followed Elijah, after he arrived at the 2nd period, or place, and his Master had not ascended. But he went on, although the wicked kept scoffing about his Masters being taken from him; he held on a little longer, and soon cried out, “my father, my father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof.” They had passed by the second period, and still kept on with their eyes up, not knowing the exact time or place: for the hope of Elisha depended upon seeing his Master taken up. If he had given up in despair, saying it is of no use for me to watch any longer, after Elijah informed him God had sent him to Jordan, he would have lost the blessing. And as Elijah is a representative of the living saints, it is highly important we also watch. What I say unto you, I say unto all, watch. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.6
The band in this place are trying to watch, and full salvation keeps our eyes open and our appetite good for the truth. We have no preaching, only occasionally, except what we do ourselves. But the good Shepherd feeds us; while the devil’s agents, foaming full of fury, have broken in all the windows, sashes and all, to our Tabernacle, and once set it on fire. It was discovered before much damage was done, and the building stands with the windows boarded up, and the burnt door, preaching louder than ever, The Lord is coming; but the wicked don’t believe nor understand. We meet in a private house, regularly every Sabbath, three times, and hold meetings four evenings in the week, praying for that day to come, when the wicked will feel more like getting away from the fire then kindling it. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.7
I am for one, tired of seeing so many who are destitute of the Advent glory, around, living on their brethren and doing no good, but trying to start another time, when God has declared himself that no man knoweth the day nor the hour, but the Father will make it known. There are so many of this class who are living on the public, burdens to their brethren, that those who can do good do not feel free to go out. Some of the band have been so saddled with such unwelcome persons that they have raised money to get them away. These persons pretend that God has sent them, and will not leave until the brethren vote them away. I do not believe such things are of God. If God sends a message to his people, it will comfort, not distress them. God has no doubt made use of some to advance his cause, whom he does not see fit to use longer in public, and who are not willing to be laid aside, when there is now no call for such a class of laborers, as there has been in days past. We need exhortations for encouragement, and we have such through the Advent Herald weekly, from brethren of piety and good sense, who feel for the welfare of the Advent bands. There are some who feel more like spunging their living out of their brethren, than they care for the cause, and they stay without doing any good. Such ought to be otherwise employed. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.8
These remarks are not designed for those who are among the brethren doing good, for there are many such, but for these floating visiters, who, if they would settle some where, would be more likely to be ready themselves, and be less occasion for so much complaint. There are many who wish for something of this kind to appear in this paper. Yours, etc. H. Munger. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.9
Chicopee Falls, Dec. 23rd, 1844.
Force of Truth
JVHe
Two Brahmins have lately been baptized, and received into the church at Calcutta. One of these was of the highest caste, and most respectable family connexions, besides being possessed of great wealth. He sacrificed all his property, amounting to about $100,000, and becomes an outcast—his family disowning him and his countrymen abhorring him. Literally, he denies himself, takes up his cross and follows Christ—forsaking houses and lands, father and mother, brother and sister, wife and children. Such is the power of the Gospel in all lands, when it takes hold on the heart, and makes man a new creature. Apply this standard to the vast number of professing Christians among ourselves, who contribute nothing and less than nothing to the fulfillment of the great command, “Go preach the Gospel to every creature,” and where are they found? It is a fearful thing to enter the church of Christ without the spirit of entire self consecration to his service. But that thousands on thousands do so enter it, admits not of a doubt, if we judge the tree by its fruits. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.10
The above we find, without credit, on the first page of the N. H. Baptist Register. It is a striking commentary upon the censures of the churches. They have condemned the despised Adventists for manifesting the same fruits that are here acknowledged to be the legitimate and necessary results of the truth in all lands. And the churches are here censured for being destitute of the very faith for which the Adventists are condemned. O consistency! verily, thou art a jewel! HST January 1, 1845, page 167.11
Why is it, that those who cavil at our position, have not the magnanimity to publish, nor even attach our arguments or facts? HST January 1, 1845, page 167.12
The Refiner
JVHe
He is like a refiner’s fire, and fullers soap. And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.—Malachi 3:2, 3. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.13
A few ladies in Dublin, who often met together to read the word of God, one day occupied their attention with the passage now before the eyes of the reader. One of the ladies expressed her opinion that the fuller’s soap and the refiner of silver, were only the same image to convey the same view of the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. “No, said another, they are not the same image: there is something remarkable in the expression. ‘He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.’ On going to town, this lady called on a silver smith, and desired to know the process of refining silver, which he explained to her. ‘But do you sit, she asked, while you are refining?’ ‘Yes, Madam, I remain with my eye steadily fixed upon the furnace; since if the silver remain too long, it is sure to be injured.’—She at once saw the beauty and comfort of the expression. Christ sees it needful to put his people into the furnace, but he is seated by the side of it—His eye is steadily fixed on the work of purifying—and his wisdom and his love are both engaged to do all in the best manner for them. As the lady was returning to her friends, to tell them what she had heard, and as she turned from the shop door, the silver smith called her back, and said he had forgotten one thing, and that was, he only knew the process of refining to be complete by seeing his own image in the silver. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.14
When Christ sees his own image in his people, the work of purifying is accomplished. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.15
It may be added, that the metal continues in a state of agitation, until all impurities are thrown off, and then it becomes quite still; a circumstance which heightens the analogy of the case; for how HST January 1, 1845, page 167.16
“Sweet to be passive in his hand,
And know no will but His!” HST January 1, 1845, page 167.17
Minister’s Account. At a meeting of ministers, an aged servant of God represented the Judge as calling upon those who had been preachers of his word to render up their final account, and proceeded in this manner: To the first—“What was your inducement to preach my word?” He replied, “To secure a good living.” Stand by, said the Judge, “you have received your reward.” To the second—“And what did you preach for?” “To display my learning and eloquence, and gain popularity.” “Stand by; you have received your reward.” To the third—“And why did you preach?” He humbly replied, “To make known unto men salvation by the cross, and win souls to thee.” “Room, saints! room, angels!” said the Judge; “let my faithful servant enter into the joy of his Lord.” HST January 1, 1845, page 167.18
Is there not cause for Alarm?—There are now in Europe several effective organizations acting under the name of missionary societies, the real object of whose labors is the overthrow of our government. The most prominent of the societies are the De Propaganda Fide of Rome; the Leopold Foundation, in Austria; another society at Lyons, in France. These societies, and others of a similar design, contribute for the spread of Romanism in this country, a sum about equal to the whole amount contributed by all the evangelical churches in America for missions. Is there nothing to fear from such lavish expenditures?—True Catholic. HST January 1, 1845, page 167.19
THE ADVENT HERALD
No Authorcode
BOSTON, JANUARY 1, 1845.
Questions Answered
JVHe
Dear Bro. Bliss—I want to ask you whether the year A. D. 1, expressing the ordinal, did not correspond with the ordinal of J. P. 4714? And whether the ordinal of the J. P. 6557, does not correspond with the present year? If so, we are most certainly in ‘43 instead of ‘44; for 6557—4714=1843. And 1843 will not end until January 1. If you will answer this, it seems to me it will settle the dispute about the year at once. J. Weston. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.1
Dec., 1844. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.2
It is true that those years synchronise as expressed above; and it is also true that A. J. P. 6557—4714=1843. Why, then, is it asked, does not this year synchronise with A. D. 1843? It is because A. D. 1843 is an ordinal, and does not complete 1843 full years till Jan. 1st, the beginning of A. D. 1844. A. D. 1, began with the beginning of A. J P. 4714, and ended with its close; or in other words, our Anno Domini began at the end of A J. P. 4713; so that when we subtract 4714 from A. J. P. 6557, we have 1843 full years, not the ordinal but the numeral, from the 1st day of A. J. P. 4714 to the 1st day of A. J. P. 6557. And as the 1st of last Jan. was the 1st day of A. J. P. 6557, that must have been the end of 1843 full years from the vulgar era, and the 1st day of A. D. 1844. But the date of this paper is the 1st day of A. J. P. 6558; and consequently we are just 1844 full years from the vulgar era, which was the 1st day of A. J. P. 4714. 6558—4714 leaves just 1844 full years. Consequently this is the 1st day of A. P. 1845—not 1845 years, but the 1st day of the year, which spans the arch from to-day to one year from to-day. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.3
Bro. Weston.—The notice to which you refer had reference to those who are not Adventists. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.4
Bro. Weston writes:—I have been very unwell for several weeks, though now I am in better health. I went to Ashburnham, Mass., last Sabbath, and we had a blessed time. The brethren and sisters are strong that the Lord will soon come. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.5
Letter from Br. D. M. James
JVHe
Dear Brother Himes—The Advent cause here was never more firm than at the present time. The brethren and sisters are strong in the faith of soon seeing their Lord and King—although different reports have been in circulation abroad. We are in great want of a Preacher. We have no regular preaching for the want of some one to preach to us. It would be very desirable to the brethren, to have some one of the lecturing brethren come and visit us. We hope bro. F. G. Brown will come if convenient; if not, some other one is requested to visit us. There are about one hundred and twenty-five brethren and sisters, in this town and vicinity, who would be glad to see some one of the lecturing brethren here. Will brother Brown please inform us through the Herald whether he can come or not. Yours in the blessed hope of soon seeing Jesus, D. M. James. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.6
Wales, Ms.—Brother H. Pratt writes:—Never were the Advent brethren so strong in faith or numbers in Wales, as since the definite time has passed. We bless God for the hope that this little band can now exclaim with the prophet, “This is our God, we have waited for him, and he will save us.” Language is inadequate to express the gratitude we feel to those who have been the instruments in the hands of God, of opening our eyes to behold the beauties of his word. O what light has dawned upon our souls since we learned that that word could be understood. Blessed are they whom the Lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing. This gospel of the kingdom must be preached, and if the Adventists do not preach it, I fear it will slumber fatally. O, how gladly would we throw open our doors, our arms, and our hearts of sympathy, would they but come to Wales in the name of the Lord. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.7
Luther’s Opinion of Perfection.—Brother, is it not possible for thee to become so righteous in this life, that thou shouldest feel no sin at all, that thy body should be clear like the sun, without spot or blemish, but thou hast as yet wrinkles and spots, and yet thou art holy notwithstanding. But thou wilt say, How can I be holy, when I have and feel sin in me? I answer, in that thou dost feel and acknowledge thy sin; it is a good token; give thanks unto God and despair not. It is one step of health, when the sick man doth acknowledge and confess his infirmity. But how shall I be delivered from sin? Run to Christ, the physician which healeth them that are broken in heart, and saveth sinners. Follow not the judgment of reason, which telleth thee that he is angry with sinners. But kill reason and believe in Christ. If thou believe, thou art righteous, because thou givest glory unto God, that he is almighty, merciful, true, etc., thou justifiest and praisest God. To be brief, thou yieldest unto him his divinity, and whatsoever else belongeth unto him. And the sin which remaineth in thee, is not laid to thy charge, but is pardoned for Christ’s sake, in whom thou believest, who is perfectly just; whose righteousness is thy righteousness, and thy sin is his sin. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.8
Daring to be Singular
JVHe
“Let us dare to be guilty of the great singularity of doing well, and of acting like men and Christians, and then if we can have the liking of and approbation of the world, well; if not, the comfort is, we shall not much want it.” HST January 1, 1845, page 168.9
On this the Religious Herald thus discourses.” HST January 1, 1845, page 168.10
The man who dares to think for himself upon any question of general interest, and to act in accordance with his convictions of right, if, as must sometimes happen, he finds himself separated from his friends and associates, and even placed in diametric opposition to them; such a man, we say, must be allowed to occupy a position which is far enough from being a pleasant one. It is difficult to set oneself in the strong current of public opinion and breast its force. He who does this, must consent to endure the persecution of his enemies, and the impatience often of his best friends; he must consent to have his motives misjudged; to be charged with obstinacy and self-will, and to suffer all those nameless petty persecutions which in this country supply the absence of the Inquisition and the Star-Chamber. Every one, therefore, who purposes to “be guilty of the great singularity” of thinking his own thoughts, and doing his own acts, should count the cost before he ventures to indulge in any such luxury. If he fears that he has not nerve enough to bear the consequences we have named, let him renounce his independence, and give himself up, body and soul, to the dictation of his Party, in Church or State. It will be altogether easier and pleasanter to take this course than to strive after the naked right, with his own thoughts to aid him, and nothing else. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.11
But on the other hand, the man who sets himself earnestly, yet modestly, to ascertain truth and duty; who seeks to discover, in the light of God’s Word, the right principles of action, and adheres to these principles through good and evil report; holding to them with equal firmness, whether they carry him along with the multitude, or compel him to stand alone; such a man occupies a position not less noble than difficult. With him, principle is inexorable; everything else must yield to it. Although he may be often obliged to live without “the liking and approbation of the world,” having something substantial to rest upon within his own bosom, he can endure patiently, and wait for time to manifest the truth to which he holds. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.12
I confess (said a faithful servant of God) that I seldom hear the bell toll for one that is dead, but conscience asks me, what hast thou done for the saving of that soul before it left the body? There is one more gone into eternity, what didst thou do to prepare him for it? and what testimony must he give to the Judge concerning thee?—Baxter. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.13
The Shield, No. 2
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This No. so long delayed, is about through the press, and will be ready for delivery the first of next week. It contains a number of very interesting articles under the following titles. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.14
The Reformation of Luther—its similarity to the Present Times. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.15
Satan’s last Parochial Calls—a Poem. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.16
Version of Daniel 2nd, 7th, 8th and 9th Chapters. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.17
Prophetic Use of a Day for a Year. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.18
Exclusiveness. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.19
The Bereaved to the Departed—a Poem. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.20
Reply to Prof. Bush’s “Valley of Vision.” HST January 1, 1845, page 168.21
The Impossibility of the World’s Conversion, demonstrated from the Prophetic description and History of Popery. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.22
The Seventh Month Movement—its History, Results, etc HST January 1, 1845, page 168.23
The above form a pamphlet of 144 pages—the size of the first number. Price 37 1-2 cents, or three copies for one dollar. It may be obtained at this office, No. 9 Spruce St. N. Y., and 3 1-2 South Seventh Street, Philadelphia. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.24
CONFERENCE AT BARNSTEAD, N. H
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Providence permitting, the subscribers will attend a Second Advent Conference, at Barnstead N. H., commencing January the 2nd, 1843. APPOLOS HALE, HST January 1, 1845, page 168.25
Boston, Dec. 28, 1844. J. E. JONES. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.26
Letters and Receipts to Dec. 28
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Samuel Stewart 50c pd to end v 9; J H Northey $1 pd to end v 8; Calvin Hitchcock by pm $1 pd to end v 7; A Severance by pm $1 pd to end v 9; S Braley by pm $1 pd to end v 7; Chs F Bonney $1 pd to end v 9; Ann Shockley by pm $2 pd to end v 9; H C H Paine by pm $1 pd to 216 in v 9; S Armstrong by pm 62c pd to 189 in v 8; Jno Howe by pm $1 pd to end v 8; H H Hall by pm 50c pd to middle v 8; Mrs W Bradford by pm 50c pd to end v 9; R Seaverus by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Mrs E McNeil by pm $1 pd to end v 8; J Pierson $3 pd to 180 in v 8; S Main by pm $3 pd to middle v 8; E Martin by pm $1 pd to end v 9; C Perkins by pm $1 pd to end v 8; A Conger $1 pd to 216 in v 9; A Palmeter $1 pd to 216 in v 9; C B Whitford $1 pd to end v 8; Samuel Puffer $1 pd to 216 in v 9; Thomas Lee by pm $1 pd to 214 in v 9; H Stillwell by pm $1 pd to end v 9; D M Clough by pm $1 pd to end v 8; C E Williams by pm $1 pd to 214 in v 9; R Rose $1 pd to end v 9; Sarah Pelham $1 pd to end v 9; M S Whiting $1 pd to end v 8; J Kendall by pm $1 pd to end v 8; J Pierson by pm $3 pd to middle v 8; Silas Reid $2 pd to end v 6: B H Osborn by pm $1 pd to 216 in v 9; Rev J Blair by pm $1 pd to end v 8; J S Seymour by pm $1 pd to 216 in v 9; Charles McKenzie by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Henry V Davis (3 cops) $2 pd to 198 in v 9; Capt M Whitten $1 pd to 216 in v 9; J T Stall $1 pd to end v 8; E Records $1 pd to 204 in v 9; Mrs S H Pierce $1 pd to 216 in v 9; John Downing $2 pd to end v 10; D Downing $1 pd to 184 in v 8; Mrs A Tilton $1 pd to end v 8; Hannah Conant 50c pd to 200 in v 9; Levi Mussey settled to end v 8; Erastus Parker $3 for 3 copies, (where shall it be sent? name of town not sent us,); H M Sleeper by pm $1 pd to 216 in v 9; E C Englerby by pm $1 pd to middle of v 9; C Benns $1 pd to middle v 9; S Wainwright 50c pd to middle v 8; W Hicks 50c pd to 190 in v 8; Harriet Towne $1 pd to 216 in v 9; E P Butler $1 pd to 217 in v 9; H Barbour $1 pd to end v 8; J Wright 50c pd to middle v 8; A Williams $1 pd to end v 7; Mary Hull $1 pd to 216 in v 9; D S Turner $1 pd to end v 5; Ann Grow $1 pd to 216 in v 9; W H Kneeland $1 pd to 216 in v 9; E B Avery by pm $2 pd to end v 7 including $1 in June last; Nathan Clark (it stands “Collins” on our Book, which is right?) by pm $1 pd to end v 8; J Willoughby and John Frederick by pm 50c each pd to 203 in v 9; S Stone by pm $1 pd to end v 9; T Freeman jr by pm $1 pd to to end v 7. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.27
J McGlauflin; G S Miles $10 50c; J B Cook; J J Porter; E Jacobs; J Marsh; pm Greenville Pa; W S Miller; Ira Young; J Blake and J Tibbits; J Adrian; J Kendall $6; pm York Me $2; P M Shaw; pm Richmond Vt; W H Scott $1 books sent; A Pierce with box of books; H Haskill; J Weston; J V Himes; pm Cheshire Ct; pm Salisbury N H; N Southard; J Bates $1; A S Calkins; G F Cox; E C Clemons; F. G Browm; pm Fredom N Y; S Stowe $5; pm Plymouth Pa. HST January 1, 1845, page 168.28