Gospel Trumpet – 1 April 1886

1 April 1886, Volume 8, Number 2.

NEWS FROM THE FIELD.

-:o:-

IN PENNSYLVANIA.

_____

AFTER we closed our meeting at Henderson Pa., we went to a point near Bullion Pa., where some friends of the cause of holiness had made arrangements for us to hold a meeting. We preached one sermon only in the school house, and Sister Alice J. Davis had preached twice before we reached there; after which the school house was closed against us, through the influence of the enemies of the true Gospel of Christ. Viz. The sectarians.

O! what a deadly poison it is to the soul. In all our travels and experience in the evangelistic work we have never found a place more darkened and blighted by sectarian abominations than this. Every strategem is resorted to, in order to raise money to pay the greedy hirelings. One M. E. preacher who spake openly against us in his pulpit, in order to vindicate their own abominations, preaches at Bullion, and another place not far from there. At Bullion there is only five members, and they are all women, and poor. They are obligated to pay this carnal hireling $ 50, per year for preaching once in two weeks on Sunday eve; which would make about $2. 00 per sermon. He justifies himself in thus fleecing this little flock by saying, “that is as cheap us a physician or doctor would come.” These poor souls have little or no time to spare to work for the Lord, or get their own souls led. They make little pokes or bags, and other things to sell. The poor souls are driven almost to declaration, and such is their zeal to pay the preacher, and be loyal to their sect, that they even do not scruple to resort to the lottery, or gambling business in order to pay their preacher.

I was informed, and am indebted to some of the members of the M. E. sect for the statement, and I have confidence enough in them to believe their statement; to the effect that they did make a quilt and those desiring to draw the quilt were each to give 50 cts a chance; the one drawing the right number to take the quilt. The money was to go to pay the preacher.

Now this is nothing but gambling. I defy the world to make anything else out of it. And O how shocking! this same preacher, and some of those members claim to be sanctified. O how true, that in the last days perilous times have come. when many having departed from the faith, shall give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, having the form of godliness, but denying the power; from such turn away.” So says the Apostle, 2 Tim. 3:1. Is it a wonder the Spirit of God said to John in Rev. 18th chapter that this great sect babylon is fallen, and become the hold of every foul spirit, and the cage of every unclean and hateful bird: and then cries with a loud voice “Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues,” O I do pray God that all who are honest at heart, may obey the voice of God and make their escape out of her, for their doom is written by the hand of God on her walls.

After we were shut out of the school house, Bro. Reuben Sutton invited us to come into his house, and hold a few meetings, which we did, and much good was done, and the people were convicted by the truth. But the house was small, and we felt we could not spend the precious time in preaching to so small an audience.

So we went over near Barkeyville, and preached in a school house there, from Friday eve till Sunday eve, preaching four times, and the Word was received with thankfulness of heart, and much conviction rested on the people. If we could have had the house longer, many souls would have been saved. We charge the closing of the houses upon sect babylon, and the blood of those lost souls will be found upon them in the awful day of Judgment. O what an awful day that will be! heaven trembles at their doom. The mean time while we were near Barkeyville, the friends near Bullion were determined to have a meeting. So brother Sutton having a house which could be easily converted into a meeting house, it was speedily done, and we had the privilege of preaching the everlasting Gospel of God unto the people. Though there was much opposition, many received the truth, during the two weeks we stayed there, and a number were converted, and one sanctified. If we could have held about two weeks longer here, there would have been a fire kindled that the enemy of souls never could put out. But we expect to hold a camp meeting in this vicinity, the Lord willing, during the coming summer, when we expect to see those people again, and we hope and believe many souls will be saved through the seed which has been sown. May God reward those dear ones for their kindness to us, in supplying our every want; we will continue our prayers for them.

After the meeting closed there we came to Henderson and held a few meetings with the saints there. God was with us in power. On Sunday, March the 7th we went to a beautiful stream of water where nine souls were immersed, and were happy in following the foot-steps of the blessed Master. On Sat. evening a few of us had gathered at Bro. and sister Owen’s, where we had a glorious time, occasioned by the outpouring of the blessed Spirit and power, in the sanctification of sister Zech. Turner, of Fairfield Pa. O hallelujah! this was one of the most glorious times of refreshing from His presence ever witnessed. In my last report in reference to the work at Henderson I omitted to mention a meeting held at the house of Bro. Dean, in which three souls consecrated, one was converted and one sanctified. I think possibly there were other meetings not reported through mistake in my diary. On Sunday eve we met at sister Frost’s house, where the Lord did wonderfully bless our souls. There were some consecrations, and one claimed sanctification, and one pardon. O how sweet the blessed fellowship of the saints. We followed the Lord in the ordinances of feel washing, and the holy communion, forty-live took part in the same. O! we shall never forget that night with the saints, where the light burned so bright in that house which is like a city set on a hill. The light of the Holy Spirit burned more bright in our hearts than the lights in the house. Here we held sweet communion together until after midnight when we bade each-other farewell with many tears. O God may we all meet in heaven if not on earth. We then went home with dear Bro. and sister Elder, and in the morning we were conveyed to the depot by Win. Elder whose love for the cause is wonderful, for one unsaved, who treated us affectionately and was very kind. May God save him I pray. We reached home the next morning after an absence of over two months, and was happily recieved by the loved ones at home.

Joseph.

-:o:-

Portland, Mich.

Dear Breathren: — Praise God for salvation full and free! We are saved to the uttermost, and have the glory of God in our souls. Hallelujah! We are having a hard fight, but God is our strength. The sects are stirred, and God is helping me to pour on the mighty truth of the holy Word.

Some have already been saved, and some are coming out of the sects. Pray for us, that there may be a great work done here.

Your brother, saved and sanctified.

Win. N. Smith.

__________

CAMP MEETINGS.

—:o:—

As it is now time to make out a list, of meetings for our summer campaign; therefore we wish to hear from the brethren in the different parts in reference to camp and grove meetings. All who desire camp or grove meetings should notify us as soon as possible, so we can make the best possible disposition of our time. Do not ask us to publish a camp meeting unless you expect to tent on the ground.

Any meeting in the grove would be a grove meeting, unless the brethren tented On the grounds. Let us hear from you.

We ought to have a camp meeting in Gratiot Co., Mich, again this year, also on the Bangor grounds, one in Pa., and other places. In each we want to know if the brethren will tent, and about how many.

Joseph.

THE FAMINE WHICH OPPRESSED THE JEWS, AT THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM.

—o—

Let us, then, with the fifth book of Josephus’s history again in our hands, go through the tragedy of events which then occurred. “It was equally dangerous,” says he, “for the more wealthy to remain. For under the pretext of desertion a man was slain for his wealth. But the madness of the rioters increased with the famine, and both kinds of misery were inflamed from day to day. Provisions were plainly nowhere to be had. Hence, they burst into houses to search for food, and if they found any, they would scourge the owners as if they intended to deny they had it; but if they found none, they tortured them as if they had carefully concealed it. The bodies of the poor wretches, however, were evidence enough whether they had or had not. Some of them, therefore, that were yet sound in health, they supposed to have an abundance of food, but those that were wan and pallid they passed by; for it seemed absurd to kill men that were soon likely to die for want. Many secretly exchanged their property for a single measure of wheat, if they happened to be the more wealthy; of barley, if they were of the poorer sort. Then locking themselves in the most retired parts of their houses, some, from excessive hunger, eat the grain unprepared; others however, baked it according as necessity or fear directed. As to a table, there was none set anywhere; but taking the food from the fire, they tore it asunder yet crude and raw.

Wretched indeed was the fare, and a lamentable sight it was, where the most powerful grasped after all, and the weaker were constrained to mourn. For famine surpasses all other evils, but it destroys nothing so effectually as shame; for that which would otherwise demand some regard is contemned in this. Thus wives tore away the food from the very mouths of their husbands, children from their parents, and what was most wretched of all, mothers from their infants: so that whilst their dearest children lay wasting in their arms, there was not shame enough to prevent them taking away the very drops that supported life. And even in doing tins, they did not remain undiscovered; for whenever they saw a door locked, this was a sign that those within were taking food, and then immediately bursting open the doors they rushed in, and choked them, almost forcing the morsels out of their very throats. Old men were beaten that held back their food, and women were torn by the hair, if they concealed what they had in their hands. Nor was there any pity for gray hairs or for infants; but taking up the infants clinging to the morsels, they dashed them to the ground. But they were much more cruel to those who anticipated their entrance, and were devouring what they wished to seize, just as if they had been wronged by them. They also devised terrible modes of torture, to discover where there was any food. For by cruel devices to prevent every relief of nature, they caused the unhappy individual to suffer such torment, that the very recital makes one shudder at what he would endure, before he confessed that he had one loaf of bread, or that he had a single handfull of wheat concealed. The tormentors themselves, however, suffered no want; for it might have been some palliation, if necessity had compelled them thus. But they did it with a view to exercise their ferocity and.to provide for themselves for the following days. When any crept forth at night, to the outposts of the Romans, for the purpose of collecting wild herbs and grass, these tormentors would go out to meet them, and when they seemed just to have escaped the hands of the enemy, the oppressors robbed them of whatever they brought. And very often, though they entreated them, and conjured them by the most awful name of God, to give them some part of that for which they had risked their lives, they notwithstanding gave them nothing. It was a happy circumstance yet, if in addition to robbery, they were not also slain.” This same author, after a few particulars, also says: “But with the hope of egress, was cut off all hope of safety to the Jews, and the famine now penetrating deeply, was consuming the people by houses and families. The houses were filled with women and children that had thus perished; the byways with the dead bodies of old men. But the boys and young men, swelling up, tottered and reeled like shadows through the markets, and then falling down, lay wheresoever the malady had overtaken them. The sick were not even able to bury their dead, and those yet in health and strength were loth to do it, both on account of the number of the dead, and the uncertainty of their own fate. Many, indeed, fell down and died upon those they were burying; many went to the sepulchres, even before they were overtaken by the struggles of death.

There was, however, neither weeping nor lamentation, but the famine prevailed over all affection. With tearless eyes did they who were yet struggling with death, look on those that had gone to rest before them. A deep silence and deadly gloom also pervaded the city. But more oppressive than all these, were the robbers that broke into the houses, now mere sepulchres, and spoiling the dead, and tearing off the garments of their bodies, they went of with a laugh. They would also try the points of their swords in the dead bodies, and some of those that were lying yet alive, they thrust through, in order to try the edge of their weapons. But those that prayed them the relief of their arm and sword, they contemptuously left to be destroyed by the famine; whilst those expiring died with their eyes fixed on the temple, and left the factious to survive them.

Those, at first, not bearing the effluvia from the dead bodies, ordered them to be’ buried out of the public treasury; afterwards, when they were not able to continue this, they threw the bodies from the walls into the ditches below. As Titus went around these, and saw them filled with the dead, and the deep gore flowing around the putrid bodies, he groaned heavily, and raising his hands called God to witness that it was none of his work.” After some additional remarks, Josephus proceeds: “I cannot hesitate to declare what my feelings demand. I think that had the Romans lingered to proceed against these guilty wretches, the city would either have been swallowed up by the opening earth or overwhelmed with a flood, or like Sodom, been struck with the lightning. For it bore a much more impious race than those who once endured such visitations. Thus, by the madness of these wretches, the whole people perished.” In the sixth book, he also writes thus: “Of those that perished by the famine in the city, there fell an infinite number. The miseries that befel them were indescribable: for at every house, wherever there was a shadow of food, there was war. The nearest relatives contended with one another, to seize the wretched supports of life. There was no belief that hunger was the cause, even when they saw the dying; but the robbers would search them whilst yet breathing lest any one should pretend that he was dying whilst he concealed food in his bosom. But the robbers themselves, with their mouths wide open for want of food, roved and straggled hither and thither, like mad dogs, beating the doors as if they were drunk; and for want of counsel, rushing twice or thrice an hour into the same houses. Indeed, necessity forced them to apply their teeth to every thing, and gathering what was no food, even for the filthiest of irrational animals, they devoured it, and did not abstain at last even from belts and shoes. They took off the hides from their shields and devoured them, and some used even the remnants of old straw as food; others gathered the stubble, and sold a very small weight of it for four Attic drachms. And why should we speak of the excessive severity of the famine displayed upon inanimate objects? I am going to relate a piece of wickedness, such as is not record-ed either by Greeks or barbarians. It is horrid to relate, and incredible to hear. And indeed, lest I should appear to deal in marvelous stories, I would cheerfully pass by this occurrence, if I had not in numerable witnesses still living. I should also deserve but cold thanks from my country, if I should pass by in carelessness what she in reality did suffer. A woman that dwelt beyond the Jordan, named Maria, the daughter of Eleazar, of the village Bathezor, signifying the home of hyssop, distinguished for her family and wealth, having taken refuge at Jerusalem among the rest of the multitude, was shut up in the city with them. The tyrants had already robbed her of all her other possessions, as much as she had collected, and brought with her from beyond the river into the city. But as to the relics of her property, and whatever food she provided, the ruffians daily rushing in, seized and bore it away. A dreadful indignation overpowered the woman, and frequently reviling and cursing the robbers, she endeavored by these means to irritate them against herself. But as no one either through resentment or pity would slay her, and she was weary of providing food for others, and there was now no probability of finding it any where; the famine now penetrated the very bowels and marrow, and resentment raged more violently than the famine. Urged by frenzy and necessity as her counselors, she proceeded against nature herself.

Seizing her little son, who was yet at her breast, she said, “Wretched child! in the midst of war, famine, and faction, for what do I preserve thee? Our condition among the Romans, though we might live, is slavery. But even slavery is anticipated by famine, and the assasins are more cruel than either — come, be thou food to me, fury to the assassins, and a tale for men, the only one yet wanting to complete the miseries of the Jews,” As she said this, she slew her son; then roasting him. she ate one half herself, and covering over the rest, she kept it. It was not long before the murderers came in, and perceiving the fumes of the execrable food, they threatened immediately to slay her If she did not produce what she had prepared. She answered she had reserved a fine portien of it for them, and then uncovered the relics of her son. Horror and amazement immediately seized them. They stood mute with the sight. “This is my son,” said she, “and the deed is mine. Eat, for I too have eaten, be not more delicate than a woman, nor more tender than a mother; but if you are so pious, and reject my offering, I have already eaten half, and let the rest remain for me.” After this, they indeed went, trembling away, cowardly af least in this one instance, and yet scarcely yielding to the mother even this kind of food. Forthwith the whole city was filled with the dreadful crime, and every one placing the wickedness before his eyes, was struck with a horror as if it had been perpetrated by himself. Thenceforth the wretched people overcome with hunger, only strove to hasten death; and it was a happiness yet for those who died before they heard and saw miseries like these.”

Such then was the vengence that followed the guilt and impiety of the Jews against the Christ, of God.

Eusebius’ Ancient Church History.

__________

SONGS OF VICTORY.

SEGOND EDITION.

-:o:-

Praise God! The New book is sending a tidal wave of praise and glory through the land; flashing Gospel light unto many hearts; sounding out the clear notes of Gospel truth, and exerting a mighty influence for God, and His salvation in the hearts of the people. The publication of this book is a glorious epoch in the onward march of Divine truth. The first edition has nearly all gone forth singing the dear Redeemer’s praise.

We now begin to publish the second edition, to which we expect to add a few new pieces with notes. Songs of Victory is well adapted for Sabbath schools, camp and grove meetings. Now is the time to order for Sabbath school, and other meetings. Numbers can be; ordered from one; dozen upward, at the same rates, as per hundred. Price 35 cents. Cloth 50cts. Per dozen $3.00. Cloth $4.80.

========

Send us a new Subscriber.

Page 2

THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.

__________

A SEMI-MONTHLY HOLINESS JOURNAL

__________

DEFINITE, RADICAL, ANTI-SECTARIAN.
Sent Forth in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ
For the Purity and Unity of His Church,
the Defence of ALL His Truth,
And the Destruction of Sect Babylon.

__________

D. S. WARNER, and J. C. FISHER, —– Editors.
J. C. FISHER, —– Publisher.

__________

TERMS, $1.00 Per Year In Advance.

All business communications, moneys etc, must be addressed to the Gospel Trumpet, in order to insure credit; otherwise we will not be responsible.

Remittances for less than five dollars, should be sent in Postal Notes, above that amount in Pest Office Orders, or Registered Letter. Small amouts in two cent stamps.

NOTICE.

A commission of 20 percent will be given on each subscriber, to all who will labor for the Gospel Trumpet. We make this offer so as to help the brethren that are in the field, as well as the circulation of the paper.

Parties desiring papers to canvass with should notify us regularly of their whereabouts.

IS YOUR TIME OUT?

The cross marked with a pencil opposite this item means that your paid subcription is out. When thus marked please renew at once, or, if the Trumpet is not desired longer, notify us to stop it. We must be notified by letter and the amount due us as back pay must be sent to us, when a subscriber wishes their paper discontinued.

Any one who does not receive their paper, should notify us at once, and it will receive prompt attention.

Address, Williamston

Mich.

=====

Entered at the Post Office at Willlamston.
Ingham Co. Mich., as second class matter.

==========

THE NEW TRACT,

‘CHRIST IS THE BODY THE CHURCH.’

A tract containing scriptural proofs that Christ Himself is the Church, and the Church is Christ.

It is doing a glorious work. Many write favorably of the light it is shedding. Orders are increasing; send on your orders.

Price……………10 cents.
One dozen copies…………. $1 .00
Fifty copies…………..$3. 50

_________

ANOTHER NEW TRACT.

THE SABBATH,

—:or:—

WHICH DAY TO KEEP.

_____

BIBLE Proofs that the change from the seventh, to the first day of the week, was made by the Lord Himself.

This tract contains 64 pages: the price is 25 cts.

God has enabled us to set forth the subject in the clear light of abundance of Scripture. So every reader of the Trumpet can glorify God in sending your orders for this Tract. This will also be a good financial help to spread other matter for the Lord.

BIBLE PROOFS.

—:o:—

We now have on hand a supply of Bible Proofs of the Second Work of Grace, which we are anxious to dispose of as soon as possible. Frequently brethren have been writing for the book, and have not been supplied. Please now send in your orders and they will be promptly filled.

Price $1. 25.

TRACTS, TRACTS, TRACTS!

-:o:-

The dear little ones in the Office have been making up all the Church and Sabbath tracts we have printed. We have yet a good supply on hand. Let them be sent on their way, preaching the truth, as it is in Christ Jesus. The Church tract ten cents, the Sabbath tract 25 cents. 20 percent commission to all who order to sell. We also call attention to the fact that the publication offers 20 percent commission on Trumpet subscriptions.

Let all work for the Lord.

NOTICE.

_____

We are now prepared to furnish beautiful Scriptural tract envelopes and cards 50 cts per hundred for each, on receipt of orders.

========

LOANED BOOKS.

________

We have loaned out quite a number of books, to accommodate brethren and friends; but in so doing we have lost trace of some. Hence we make this call to any one that has of our books to let us know. Among the lost are, “MadamGuyon,” two volumes, Upham’s “Life of Faith,” and “Interior Life.” “Randall’s Travels in Egypt, Sinai, and the Holy Land, or the Hand writing of God.”

==========

ASYLUMS, JAILS AND PRISONS.

—:o:—

HALLELUJAH to God and the Lamb! Satan has come down having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.

Bro. S. Michels labored in the Gospel it Lapaz Marshall Co. Ind. God blessing the Word in the salvation of souls. A man by the name of Jas. R. Vinnedge in that place, received the Word of God, and after M’s departure Bro. V. received a wonderful experience of the salvation and illumination of the Holy Spirit. So much so that he scarcely knew that he was in the body. He said his life was wholly in the Spirit. He fasted ten days, and of course made many remarks, that Would be foolishness to the carnal, and blind sinners in babylon. So by the instigation of the devil, the advent children of the bond woman, of whom Bro. V. had been a member, led by a devil possessed Dr., pronounced the man crazy. They put him under guard of sinners and excluded all the saints. Thus the devil tried to crush the pure Spirit by the contact of opposite spirits of the devil. The brother wrote the following letter to Bro. Michels, which all sane and spiritual minds can see is from a sane,and very spiritual mind. The brothers name, in full, being on the printed head of his letter, he only signed his spiritual name at the bottom.

Lapaz Ind., Feb. 18 1886.

Brother Michels, in Christ Jesus, Greeting: — Praise God and the Lamb forever and ever 1 When you was here you could not write to me, nor talk to me as spiritual, but as a babe. Oh, thy prayers have been heard, and are answered.

In the name of Jesus come down and see what thy prayers have done; come quickly and bring all of thine holy angels with the (company of singers.) Thee prayers of the saints have saved even me. The sacrifice is made. Come then angel of God, thou hast been called and now art chosen, come therefore and work for the Lord next week, with the one that the prayers of God’s saints has saved. I am redeemed, redeemed, Praise God and the Lamb forever and ever! Amen!

I write unto you my New Name,

Son of God.

The saved brother, by the Spirit, said, “tomorrow at 2 P.m. the saints will come.” In the same hour, Bro’s Michels and Palmer drove into that town. A crowd of sect babylonians and sinners soon haled them on the street, ordering them to leave the town; but they gave them to understand that they had not money enough in their state to hire them to disobey God nor men and devils enough to scare them away until the Lord should send them. After speaking to the crowd some of the Word of God boldly, they started to drive to a brother out of the town to put up their team: they passed Bro. Vinnedge’s place, who, being in constant expectation of them, according to the voice of the Spirit, saw them driving by, and breaking through all the devils guards, he rushed out to greet them.

The poor innocent man was put in irons and finally taken to the insane asylum. All of this he patiently endured for Christ’s sake, though a man of no small wealth, being a patentee and manufacturer of several articles of machinery, and proprietor of planing mills.

After examination at the asylum, the physician said he was not crazy, but asleep; knowing no better way to describe the man’s utter death to the world, and all things temporal, and his wonderful transporation into the spiritual realm of heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

He wrote a cool letter back to his wife stating that she should not be disturbed or trubled about him, that he was all right and would be at home ere long. Also giving some directions about his business.

After learning that the Bro. had sent for Bro. Michels to come there, the devil stirred up one of his advent servants to write the following letter.

Lapaz Ind., Feb. 20 1886.

S. Michels, S. Haven.

Sir, I here notify you to stay away from our little town Lapaz, and not be seen here any more, or you will get used pretty roughly. Please bear this in mind, and stay away. Them is some tar and feathers Here waiting for you, and they will be used if you show up. Yours.

Citizens, Lapaz Ind.

Here are the adventists arguments. Surely they are a tar like sect filled with the spirit of the beast, and of the devil their father.

But the devil’s rage there had a good effect to strengthen the hearts of the saints. Praise the Lord!

We have just read a letter from Lapaz stating that Bro. Vinnedge has write other letters to his family, sta..ig … is all ..gh and ex.. … … … s.. and … … … … … business.

Not long ago w… … … … with is saved and … … … minded, a prominent dry good m… in the place, who also had been th.. into the asylum for a season, on the pl.. of insanity. We found him in a very sweet, tranquil, rational state of mind and soul. A sinner told us that the man is all right, and that they had only made a mistake and taken the wrong party. The poor blind sinner that was the instigation of his being shut up being a more suitable subject.

Well we expect this battle to rage hoter and hoter, and instead of asylums, “bonds and imprisonments await us.” But thanks be to God! “None of these things move us.”

We have recently received a letter from Bro. J. U. Bryant stating that while the saints were assembled one night in the worship of God, in Hans school house, Ind. a mob of 30 or 35 sodomites, inflamed with sect wine, wearing masks, opened the door, and threw In a shower of eggs, stones and clubs. Some of the saints went out, and the devil’s army retreated, one brother got wounded in his head with a club.

So that ourselves glory in you in the Churches of God, for your patience and faith in all your tribulations that you endured; Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer: Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from Heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. — 2 Thess 1:4—8.

Praise God in the highest! Stormy times are before us, but we have a safe and sweet reffuge in the bosom of God.

O that all this dear reffuge may know
Where we smile at each tempest of woe,
And we fear not the rage of the foe
In the heart, in the heart of my God.

Daniel.

==========

The only perfectly reliable Insurance Co. is the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. If you insure in this company you are sure to be burned out, but all losses will be a thousand times repaid, by a new temple wherein dwelleth righteousness.

Every false spirit allures and peeks to draw men and women over on their side. The true Spirit of God, reproves your sin and seeks to get you to God.

The warm and gentle rays of the spring sun are beginning to melt away the glistening frost and white carpet of winter’s beauty, and unlock nature’s cold and death-like bosom, to vegitation’s joyful resurrection. So the holy fire of God’s love thaws up the dead and ice-bound soul of the lost sinner, and sends therefrom streams of love and gratitude to God and man, and the heart that was barren and congealed in death, now blossoms as the rose, and brings forth the heavenly fruits of the Spirit, which are in all goodness. Glory to Jesus the resurrection and the life.

Daniel.

OBITUARIES.

-:o:-

Dr. Peter J. Smith, father of sister Allie R. Fisher took his departure from this world, and his suffering body, in St Johns Mich., March 18th 1886.

Father Smith was born in the town of Ovid Seneca Co. N. Y., March 8th 1803. Hence he had reached the advanced age of S3 years and 10 days.

He moved to Ohio in 1836. Thence to 1854, where be has resided nearly ever since.

Dr. Smith practiced medicine for fifty years. He had one very remarkable faculty of mind. His organ of time was so acurate that any time, by day or by night, he could fell exactly what time it was. He seldom missed it three minutes, and usually hit the very moment.

Father Smith was converted when a young nam and made u..        serpent sta.. in … … …

no part rows

whose h… he … … … age, about hi.. … … … heaven. He praised the Lord for the rich testimony and truth in the Gospel Trumpet, which she used to read to him in the long months of his great affliction.

He told the family how the angels were in his room. Several hours before last sleep he told the hour of his departure, and so it was. He told sister Haynes to tell his children that he was prepared to go to heaven, and that he wished them all to meet him there. Saturday the 20th. we accompanied Bro. and sister Fisher to St Johns, and the same evening took the corpse to Chessaning, where funeral services were conducted the next day in the M. E. meeting house.

God bless all the dear friends of the departed Father. May they all be comforted with the sweet assurance that their aged father is resting at home with Jesus. And O may you all walk in the light of God, and share the final home of all the saints.

Jesus took the pilgrim home,
His weary life and sufferings oe’r;
And now my children, will you come?
And meet me on the golden shore.

Master of the passing time,
Yet heeding not it’s golden hours,
Till but few, alas were mine,
And wasted quite my noble powers.

Knowing well the time of day,
But weighing not it’s value great;
Many years have run away,
In my lost, and erring state.

Like the miller flitting round,
The dazzling lamp, exposed to flame,
Humans tread on danger’s ground;
Much blinded by earth’s gilded fame.

Wisdom sees what others loose,
And profits by their folly past,
Will you then salvation choose?
That no regret may sting at last.

Daniel.

_____

Died near Walkerton Ind., March 11th, 1886. Sister Nancy A. Barden. Born Oct. 30th 1856. aged 29 years 4 months, and 11 days. Sister Barden was a member of the Dunkard sect for a number of years, doing what she could to please her blessed Master. Her husband, Bro. A. C. Barden, about, one year ago, presented his body a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, and the very God of peace did speak peace to his dear soul. This gave sister Barden greater light, and much desire for a deeper work of grace. A week before her death, while a little band of saints were praying by her couch, that very God of peace did give her the joy and peace which passeth all understanding From that time until death she testified to having sweet communion with Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

Thirty-six hours before her death she said that Jesus had wiped away all sorrow and tears. As the friends gathered around her bed and wept, her face, as the face of an angel would smile, as she sang a hymn to them. As the time of her departure drew near, she made a sign for her Testament, her husband holding it to her fingers she run her fingers through it, and holding it still, she gave her husband a look which he realized was for him to read it for her. It read, as near as the husband could remember, “And He suffered and died for us.” At the closing of it, she looked up and said, “Praise God!” and her soul took its flight to realms of day.

She leaves a husband and three children to mourn their loss.

Dr. R. Neville.

AN EXPERIENCE

—:o:—

WHEN I was but 15 years old I went to an M. E. camp meeting. I became convicted, and went to the altar to be prayed for, I wept much on account of my sins. They tried to persuade me to testify to sins forgiven, but I was not satisfied. The preacher persuaded me to join the sect, promising that they would help me. Feeling the need of help from some source I joined them. But they never tried to point me to Christ for salvation. I was acknowledged a christian, taken fully into the sect, and appointed class leader. I suppose our class meetings were like the Pharisees, if they had any. After 23 years trying to make a profession wife and I resolved we would not neglect family prayer ..s much. Think of a class tender under my heavy cross and my lead of sins on top the cross. I would ghelly ..ave … … to do ..r pra.. … us.

no part rows

… … … … very … fill..g … … … … with … … ..ssible …                         … … … … physical strougth … way. So then … there. I was born … … … … Church of the First both, and my name was written above. And I was ready for Heaven. I talked with all I met about this wonderful salvation. I became a by word for all who know me. My own mother’s children thought I was beside myself. I continued to render to God the things that are God’s and to Cezar the things that are Cezar’s. I rendered to Cezar the M. E. sect, scarcely knowing what I was doing, for I had been educated, and the preachers continually declared, we could not live christian out of the sects.

I went to a Holiness Association, where I was advised to join some sect. I was induced to buy a F. M. discipline, for 40 cents, I examined it closely and found it traditions of men, and “curious arts,” and “burned it before all, counting the cost,” Acts 19:19.

I saw the command was to “present my doby a living sacrifice holy acceptable unto God. I gave my whole will to God, and then His will was my will. All desire to conform to this world was burned out of my heart. Since then I have taken joyfully the spoiling of my goods. I had been a slave to the use of tobacco for 20 years, had made three efforts to quit, using it, but failed: found the habit was master of me, but the Lord removed the appetite, soon after I gave up the use of coffee. These things are the lusts of the flesh — 1 John 2:16.

I had heart disease, which God removed when He removed my sins. He has been my physician for soul and body for five years. I am saved from all sin, through the blood of Jesus Christ. And I am exceeding joyful in my Redeemer’s love, dwelling in the Church of the Firstborn, instead of a sect pen. The sheep hear the Shepherd’s voice and follow Him. And He leads us into glorious pasture. Praise His name!

H. L. Hargrave.

Nelta, Texas.

==========

Laingsburg, Mich.

Dear Brethren —: We are having good prayer meetings here. There has been two converted, and others have come out of babylon into the straight light of God.

Praise the Lord! My testimony is that I am saved and sanctified by a second work of grace. Praise the Lord for His wonderful goodness to me and mine!

Wallace Gould.

—:o:—

Odon, Ind.

Dear Brethren: — I feel this morning that I must write and tell you what the Lord has done for me. He has done a glorious work in my soul. One great thing He has done for me, He has cleansed me from the appetite for tobacco of which I was a great slave. O praise His holy name, He is leading me into green pastures. I am now upon the altar, desirous of doing what the Lord requires of me. Your Bro. in Christ Jesus.

Joseph Harman.

==========

Bro. James Moore, of Fowler Mich. desires to hear from any one that can furnish him information of the whereabouts of his sister and brother-inlaw,

Theadosia and John Handy.

__________

Send us a new Subscriber.

Page 3

ANSWER TO A SECTITE.

—:o:—

Mr. Editor. I see you are decidedly opposed to sects. Webster defines a sect to be, “a body or number of persons united in tenets.

Constituting a distinct party, by holding sentiments different from those of other men.” And this, whether they have a formal organization or not. Now sir, what inherent wrong is there in a sect thus constituted? If a number of persons entertain like views, follow them out in religious worship, who has a moral right to find fault, and in ease they see fit to write out their views, sign their names thereto, what wrong attaches to that act?

Let me ask you if you are not a member of a sect according to Webster’s difinition. Are there not a number of you who entertain like views, and associate together in worship?             Your’s truly

E. Berry.

Quincy, Mich.

We suppose Mr. E. Berry thinks he has got us into trouble by his questions, but we think he shall see he has only shown the darkness of his sectarian education.

Yes sir, we are decidedly opposed to sects. And so is God and the whole Bible.

Webster’s definition of sects is about correct. They are “distinct parties, by holding sentiments differing from other men.” The word sect is from sectum, a part, a cut off portion.

“Now sir what inherent wrong is there in a sect thus constituted.”?

It seems astounding to us to have any intelligent person ask such a question as this.

The Church is the body of Christ — Eph. 1:22, 23. Col. 1:18, 24. Now if your sects, or distinct parties are outside of the body of Christ, they are not of Christ, nor of God. Hence they must be of the devil. For whatever is not of God is of the devil. There is “one body,” “for as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we being many, are one body in Christ, and every me members one of another.” — Rom. 12: 4, 5. This and other Scriptures positively assert that there is but “one body in Christ.” And as no sect is this one body in Christ, it follows that all sect bodies are outside of Christ Jesus. The Church is the body of Christ, “For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.” — Eph. 5:30.

And Paul asks the question, “Is Christ livided.”? Certainly not. Then it follows that there are no sects, or different parties in His body. Hence all sect bodies are outside of Christ. Hence they are rivals of the one body of Christ. What harm attaches to the formation of sects?

Well, we ask what harm attaches to the manufacture of bogus and counterfeit money? Every sect calls itself a Church. But it, not being the Church, or body of Christ, is but a deception, a fraud, a soul damning cheat. The masses who join the sects are taught to think themselves now members of the Church. Whereits, they are not in the Church, the body … Christ, at all. Hence the sects, for which our friend Mr. Berry pleads a “moral right,” are the devil’s masked pit falls into hell. Certainty if Mr. Berry believes the Bible, be knows that the mass of sect members are on the way to destruction, being sinners; and most of them acknowledge that they are. So it there be any “moral right” to deceive and betray soul into perdition there is a moral right to form sects, and call them churches, for that is their legitimate fruit. The sects then viewed as “distinct parties” cut off from the body of Christ, and disintegrated from each other, are as Bishop Foster said, “Pompous empty frauds,” and snares to the blinded sinner. Their separate organizations, yet professing Christ, make the appearance of Christ being divided. Their diverse sect tongues, are a jargon of confusion, a babylon amazement to the whole world, which has given the lie to the Bible, and is a disgrace upon the name of Jesus Christ. Yea it is a reproach upon the name of God, which He will no longer endure, and at this time His jealousy burns like an oven in all the earth. Just now His anger has gone forth as a whirlwind, and His wrath as a consuming fire. He is now “consuming” all the sect wood, hay and stubble on earth; and in a little while He will utterly destroy the works of the devil, by the brightness of His coming. See 2nd Thess. 2:8, Isa. 10: and many other Scriptures.

We have represented all sect bodies outside of Christ. So they are. Nevertheles their influence and fruits extend into the body of His saints. While sect bodies are out of Christ, it is a fact that many who have adhered to those organized divisions, have been also members of Christ’s body, the Church, and in consequence of their adhering in those rival bodies outside of Christ, they have not been perfectly joined to Christ, nor perfectly united to eachother.

We have seen that sect bodies, being outside of Christ, are rivals of Christ, and deceptive snares of the souls of men.

They can only be said to be in the body of Christ, in the sense of some of their members being in His body, by whom the body of Christ has been divided. Viewed then as being in the Church in this sense we come back to Mr. Berry’s questions again. “Now sir, what inherent wrong is there in a sect thus constituted.”

We answer by asking the question, “what inherent wrong would there be” in some one tearing your body into fragments. What inherent wrong would there be in some wicked men sawing your house into several parts, and then throwing them in opposite directions off of the foundation? Would you think there were no wrong in that? No, you would be sure to prosecute the rascals: but you are perfectly willing that Christ should have the disgraceful, and rediculous appearance of being divided into 666 opposite rival factions, by as many ”distinct parties,” and “names of blasphemy,” all professing to be in Him.

O ye sectarians, how can ye escape the damnation of hell.

You justify the formation of a sect upon the ground that “a number of persons entertain like views,” and must necessarily “follow them out in riligious worship.”

Your reasoning is false. Men do not become worshipers of God by clanning off in parties, the members of each holding “like views.” No “God is a Spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in truth.” They cannot worship God therefore without the Spirit of God in their hearts, and if they possess Him in their hearts, “He will guide them into all truth.” “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” God says you cannot worship Him without the Holy Spirit, which guides us into all truth, into the same mind and into the same judgment. But you say you can worship God by dividing up into “damnable heresies,” or sect parties, each party adopting a creed that suits their taste, including such Scripture as they shall choose, with the addition of all other laws and traditions, the flesh and the devil may suggest.

God’s Word teaches that they who worship God do so in the Spirit, and according to truth, speaking the same things.

Mr. Berry and sect apologists, generally, teach that you can worship God by “entertaining like views,” with some party.

But to the last question, “let me ask you if you are not a member of a sect in Webster’s definition?”

No sir. In the name of Jesus, and in the positive knowledge of the truth as it is in Christ Jesus, we disclaim all sect relationship. Yea, we are fully saved and cleaased in the blood of Christ from all the dust and taint of sectism.

Webster defines a sect as “A body, or number of persons united in tenets, constituting a distinct, party by holding sentiments differing from those of other men.”

That will do for a description of a sect, but does not touch the Church of the Living God. Sects are united by tenets, but the Church, the body of Christ, “one body in Christ Jesus,” is united by Christ Himself, the true Vine in which all inhere.

Sects are tied together by outside straps — tenets. The Church of the First-born, which are written in heaven, are “knit,” “tempered,” “compacted,” and held together by internal cohesion, by love the mighty bond of perfectness. Sect straps are rotten and temporary, but “love endureth forever.”

Tenet pales — sect picket fences — have saints and sinners on the outside, and on the inside. But the walls of salvation that enclose the Church of God, exclude all sinners, and include all saints. Bless the name of Jesus! we are in Christ, His body the Church, and not in any party, bound by tenet straps. Hence we are not a member of any sect according to Webster’s definition. Sects agree upon certain tenets, but the Church is made one through salvation.

You ask “Who has a moral right to find fault” with sects. We answer God has, and so have all His children because we

“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceives the hearts of the simple.” — Rom. 16:17, 18.

“But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” — 2 Pet. 2:1-3.

The word heresy, is an untranslated word. Its English definition is sect. It is so translated in the New Testament, in many instances. In 1 Cor. 11:17-19, you see it used interchangably with divisions, and in the margin it is translated sect. In Gal. 5; 20, heresies or sects are included in the works of the flesh, and in 21, it is declared that they that do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. In 1 Cor. 12:24, 25, the God of the Bible says that He “tempered the body together,” “that there should be no schisms (sects) in the Body.” And the same God says that sects are damnable, and yet our critic says, “who has a moral right to find fault with sects, ignorantly criticising the God of heaven. The Lord save him out of babylon that he partake not of her sins, and receive not of her plagues. Amen!

Daniel.

__________

NEWS FROM THE FIELD.

-:o:-

Concordia, Can.

Dear Brethren: — God bless you, one and all. My soul is full of the glory of God; my cup runneth over. Hallelujah!

I came to this place (the Union Valley school house) and opened fire on the ranks of the enemy the 13th. God gave us mighty liberty in preaching His Word.

There was great conviction on the people. One brother, a preacher, arose and said he wanted the more abundant life, (sanctification.) The U. B’s. had meeting yesterday and last night, and we went to the Star school house. God wonderfully baptized our soul with the Holy fire, and we had great liberty in preaching the Word. There was deep conviction on the people. They say they want me to come back, as this is the kind of religion for them. They are tired of sectism, they want salvation. One arose as a seeker for holiness, and I have talked with others, and they say they want to be sanctified.

We preach at the Union Valley school house to-night, (D V.) and continue as long as the Lord wills. Pray for us. I will go from here to Table Rock Neb.

May God bless you. I remain your blood washed brother, sanctified wholly, and kept by the power of God.

John P. Haner.

-:o:-

Farmland, Ind.

Dear Brethren: — My testimony is, we are praising God for full salvation. The Lord directed me to come to Ind. to work for Him, and how He fills our souls with His glory when we follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. Praise God forever! Hallelujah! I am His, and He is mine.

O how God blesses us when we sacrifice all to follow Him. We are out on the fire line, for souls. If God wills, we expect to stay here a while and work for God.

Amen!

I. M. Gray.

—:o:—

SHAWTOWN, O.

Dear Brethren: — The Lord wonderfully blesses and saves us. Hallelujah to God, for His Wonderful presence! The work of the Lord is still going on. Cheer up brethren, the victory is ours. Glory to God! The devil is drawn back; he is very uneasy. He growls, and rattles his chains and gnashes his teeth at us from without, but he cannot walk in the narrow way, his load is too large. So he stands off and growls.

Well giory to God! the saints are full of the holy fire. They are wonderfully encouraged. Let the Trumpet give the holy sound! Amen!

A. M. Dick.

Correspondence.

—:o:—

Deerfield, Ind.

Dear Brethren: — Peace be unto you, and love be multiplied through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the only potent King of kings, and Lord of lords, to whom be glory forever and ever! Amen!

Beloved, I thought it my duty to write unto you of the common salvation, and to exhort you that we should earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. My testimony is, that I am saved, purged, sanctified and washed in the precious blood of Jesus, and have overcome the wicked one by (faith unfeigned and) the word of my testimony. Hallelujah! The stone which the builders rejected, the same has become the head of the corner, glory to God! neither is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name given under heaven whereby we must be saved, (although there are 666 names of blasphemy, the number of a man, and the devil is the author of all confusion,) but God is the author of peace, as in all His Churches. And every plant which our heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up. Babylon the great is fallen because God did not plant it, therefore it shall be rooted up; for strong is the Lord that judgeth her, therefore make haste to come out of her my people.

O glory to God! I have made my escape out of her. It took me some time to get out, for I leaped over one wall into another pen, and in like manner until I had leaped over five walls. As I escaped the last pen, I fell back into the dungeon again, and there I saw the prisoners bound down in chains of awful darkness; so the Lord shook the old prison, and the bands and fetters fell off of my feet and hands, and I made my escape for life. And now I am free indeed, in the King eternal, immortal, invisible, by faith in the only wise God, to whom be glory forever, Amen!

O praise God for His wonderful works to the children of men. The preaching of God’s awful Word has created quite a stir at this place and also at New Prospect, five and a half miles north-east, and the work is still going on. I intend to go over and see how they do. The Lord bless the dear little ones that they receive the sincere milk of the Word, by the true shepherds who speak as the oracles of God, with authority and not as the scribes.

O glory to God for a complete Savior that saves us from all sin, and from all divisions, Hallelujah! and makes us as a city that is set on a hill that can not be hid, read and known of all men. The true saints of God are published abroad as fanatics, ready for the asylum, saying these that have turned the world up-side down have come hither also. Well praise God! we are worthy to suffer shame for His name, and count all things loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord, and do count them but dung that we might win Christ, the great Shepherd of the sheep.

Your brother, coming up through great tribulation.

Isaac Key.

—:o:—

Pendleton Oregon.

Dear Brethren: — Find enclosed one dollar for the Trumpet. It does me good to read the blessed truth. My sins were forgiven twenty-eight years ago. I never had much faith in schism Churches. I believe in one church and that is the living one. I pray God for wisdom to know all the truth, and for grace to live a christain life. Pray for me. Your Bro. in Christ.

S. M. Zimmerman.

—:o:—

Vichy Mo.

Dear Brethren: – My testimony is that I am saved and cleansed from all sin, and filthiness of the flesh, perfecting Holiness in the fear of God, loosed and freed from sectish yokes and babylonish confusion. Glory to God! the word says, “come out from among them, and be ye separate and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, saith the Lord,” 2nd Cor. 6:17.

Some will say that does not mean these sects, or babylon. Please turn with me, to Isaiah 52:11, 12. “Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vesels of the Lord.” Also, ch. 48:20. “Go ye forth of babylon, flee ye from the chaldeans, with a voice of singing declare ye, tell this, utter it even to the end of earth.” Praise God! this is what I am doing, Zech. 2:7, 8, 9, 10. “Deliver thy self, O Zion, that dwellest with the daughter of babylon. For thus saith the Lord of Hosts; after the glory that He sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of His eye. For behold, I will shake mine hand upon them, and they shall be a spoil to their servants: and ye shall know that the Lord of hosts hath sent me. Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for lo I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the Lord.” Glory to God! This morning finds me on the old Ship Zion that never lost a crew, singing “O how happy are they who their Savior obey, and have laid up ther treasures above.” Glory to God for light and knowlege the good Lord has given me! I no more say how unworthy I am, for Jesus has taken up His abode in my heart, and I now come in the worthiness of my blessed Savior. I heard that soft whisper say to me, “Come out of her my people, that ye be not pertakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” What is this but old babylon? Glory to Jesus! I would say to honest hearted people, and those who want to do their Masters will, to accept His call as I did. One year ago the gentle Spirit whisperd in my heart, come out of the Campbleite sect, and I am so glad I obeyed His call.

Your brother in the Lord, spirit, soul and body sanctified.

Columbus Kennedy.

—:o:—

Payne Ohio.

Dear Brethren: — I am sweetly 6aved this morning from all sin, and from every thing that is not of God. Bless God! I was once a vile sinner, but at the age of fifteen God for Christ’s sake pardoned all my sins, and made me a new creature in Christ Jesus. All went well for a while, but soon I felt I must present myself a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which was my resonable service, when I consecrated my all to God, He so filled me with the Holy Ghost that I could do nothing but praise Him for His goodness to me. Hallelujah to God and the Lamb forever! Amen!

Your sister saved and sanctified; and under the blood.

Laura A Kigar.

_____

Bavaria, Kan.

Dear Brethren: — The Trumpet has been a welcome visitor since we have been in Kan. It seems doubly dear since we are so far from it, and the friends we left behind. God bless you all, and keep you washed is my prayer. We mils the meetings here, which we onee enjoyed there.

We have found none like them yet, but we are holding on to God with a firm grasp, and never expect to give up the fight. God saves us still, and we will praise His name.

Your brother saved,

D. L. Boardman.

—:o:—

Freemont, Mich.

Dear Bretren: — I do praise God’s holy name this morning for full salvation. O praise God for the blessed Gospel Trumpet; I love to read the testimonies of the saints of God, for they are food to my soul.

I praise God that I am free from the sect, and free from tea and coffee, and all pride. Glory to Jesus! I care not what the world may say about me, or do to me, for perfect love casteth out all fear, and I have no reputation. I am free in Christ Jesus. Glory! Hallelujah! I praise God for the healing power, and the faith that He has given to me. The Lord has healed me seven times, since I was so near gone that my jaws were set in death. All the glory belongs to God. I will ever trust Him and teestify to the healing power. I am saved, sanctified, washed and redeemed. Pray for me, that I may be faithful.

Glory to God forever and ever! Amen!

Anna Gray.

—:o:—

Odon, Ind.

Dear Brethren: — This morning finds me still on the Solid Bock, ready to defend the cause of our blessed Master, though surrounded by foes and forsaken by friends.

I thank God this morning that I am standing where I am, and that circumstances are as favorable with me as they are.

The blessed Jesus is my best friend; He is always a present help in time of need. Though I have passed through many fiery trials, I was delivered out of them all.

I was reading this morning about the apostle Paul, how he was afflicted, persecuted and tried. I thought that these small afflictions that we have are nothing to be compared with what he endured. We have not suffered imprisonment nor been beaten with stripes, nor yet have been stoned, and he endured all these and a great deal more.

O praise God for what He has done and is still doing for me! I am still receiving more light on His blessed Word, and by His help I am walking in the light as I receive it. Please find enclosed $ 1.50 cts for Trumpet and hymn book. Your sister saved and sanctified through the blood of Jesus.

Kezia Harman.

Page 4

NEWS FROM THE FIELD.

—:o:—

OUR last report closed at Sweetser, Grant Co. Ind. From there Bro. Wm. Bragg brought our company back to the brethren’s home in Fulton Co.. But ourself remained a few days and preached the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in the town of Xenia. As we drove into the place God showed us the darkness that prevailed there. We felt that there was not a real live fire brand for God in the whole town. The U. B. house had been opened for us, we took the pulpit, and the first thing began to declare the religious condition of the people. O how God blest our soul in delivering this strange and startling anouncment. Glory to Jesus! So plainly and so vividly was the impression made on our soul that we would have ventured our life upon its correctness. The next day we had meeting, when the two best christians came to the altar, confessed they were not entirely free, and consecrated all to God. They were dear good honest, souls. They, with a number of others professed sanctification, and were indeed as sincere hearted souls as we seldom find in babylon organizations. But oh how far from the clearness, liberty and power of the holy saints who are fully-escaped far out of the city of sect confusion. O how we pity the poor souls who want to be true to God, but are shut up in the cages of deception. Glory to Jesus! We taught the word of God plainly to them. The truth seemed to come with such vivid flashes of Divine light that nearly all seemed awe stricken and like marble statues, scarcely gave an expression of approval or disapproval. But the last day some could no longer maintain their reservation, and laughed with joyful approval, and appreciation of the pure truth of our Lord Jesus Christ. After meeting quite a number came round us and thanked God most devoutly for the light and the truth they had learned, and confessed they had been kept in the dark. They declared they would walk in the light. God bless their souls. One dear brother began to meet with persecution and opposition of a very trying character, but I hope the dear honest soul will be true to Jesus at the loss of all things. A man’s foes shall be those of his own household. But he that forsaketh not all that would obstruct the will of God for Christ’s sake is not worthy of Him.

The most of those dear souls were bound together in what is called Daniel’s Band, at the same time in various sects. So they had two straps about their neck. How the devil its bound to rob the Lord Jesus Christ of His glory. He is willing men should meet in any other name but in that of the Lord Jesus Christ, because the Word bids us meet in His name only. The devil knows that any person that has one ray of spiritual light in his soul, cannot live on sect fodder, so he keeps their eye off of Christ, and His sufficiency as much as possible, by joining on to something else. Just as if it were not enough to abide in Christ and Christ in us. O how silly it is to fix up something else to join besides Jesus, “the way, the life and the truth.” He is all and in all. “And ye are complete in Him.” The people told us that the Daniel’s Band arrangement had done much good, because it had brought the best christians together. We do not doubt this, for most any departure from the cages of deception and holds of devils into a nearer union, must be better than being bound up in the dead sect lookups. But if there be strength in meeting in the name of Daniel, would it not be infinitely greater to meet in the name of Jesus, the Almighty Savior? Is not the “Body of Christ” as much better than Daniel’s, or any other man’s band, than Christ is superior to Daniel, or any other man? What ground is there in the Bible for faith in God for His presence or blessings, when men and women meet in any other name but that of Christ? Do we read, “Wherever two or three meet together in the name of Daniel’s Band, there will I be in the midst of them?” No. You cannot attach that promise to any assembly but that which meets in the name of Jesus Christ only.

This Daniel’s Band is being organized by Mrs. Wood worth, a woman who is possessed with no small power to move the people, but who is in the mists and fogs of babylon. We hope those little ones at Xenia will cleave unto Jesus with all their heart, and walk in the light of God.

Returning to the saints in Fulton Co. Ind. We staid about a week with them.

We found them prospering in the Spirit of the Lord. We had some precious meetings. Some of the little ones accompanied us severel miles south, to a meeting house where we preached on Sabbath, and left an appointment for the following Wednesday at 2 P. m. We found a house full to hear the Word. God gave us great liberty and power in preaching the Word. Old sect members squirmed and chewed their tobacco with all dilligence, seeking comfort from their tobacco god. After preaching, a Methodist sinner got up and tried to make a slang speech against the truth. Calling us “cracked sculls,” etc. The responce of “Praise the Lord!” soon confounded him. And a sinner turned around on his seat and said, “Sit down and shut your mouth,” and the man obeyed the order. Glory to Jesus! After meeting several came round us and endorsed the truth, and we think will soon be saved. In this community lives Bro. Mark Bowen, a young preacher who has fully come out of babylon, and consecrated himself wholly to the Lord, and we think will be useful unto the Lord.

Feb. 20, Bro. Bowen and some other little ones came with us north into Marshall Co. Ind., where we found the people sitting in gross darkness. Here we saw unmistakable evidences that the world is in the Sodom condition, as Christ said it would be. The last night God gave us great victory, many hearts were opened by the Lord, that were strictly shut against the truth, and some desired us to return. There is a new meeting house being furnished this spring, and if the Lord will, we will return.

Wednesday Feb. 24, the Lord greatly stirred our soul to go up to Covert Mich.. Bro’s Bowen and D. Bryant started to drive through with buggies; but when we came to Argos on the Wabash E. B., the brethren thought best not to venture so far with teams, and turned back. So we came on trusting God to bring us through. We landed at Watervliet at 2, 30 that night. Rested in the depot until morning. Then we arose, and being kindly treated by the agents, we were provided with wash bowl etc., for our comfort. We sang songs of victory, which were much appreciated by the people. We also read a chapter and knelt down in prayer, while God held every onem quiet reverance before Him. The word spread somewhat in the village, and more came in and desired songs. Some sinners talked of getting a place for us to hold a meeting there. A Mr. Ford kindly invited us to his house, where we were kindly treated and given our dinner. God save and bless that family for Christ’s sake.

At 2, 30 P. m. we continued our journey 9 miles to Covert in a mail hack. The day was cold and very stormy. We reached there safely through the mercy of God. Found the saints passing through great trials. Praise God! we could soon see why the Lord had sent us so urgently. The elements that had broken the peace of the Church before we were here the other time, were somewhat abated, but not really cut off. So the deceiver had developed his works more than ever in the hearts of a few deceived souls, through whom the cause had much suffered. Awakened sinners had been driven away from Christ. Young converts had been shaken, and nearly over-thrown by these agents of satan. Though we landed among them, and they had the first chance to represent their side, and they lost no opportunity to let their tongues run; God showed us where the devil was entrenched Glory to Jesus! He gave us wisdom and grace and power to raise up the standard of the Lord against the enemy. The second sermon we pointed out the deluded ones, and rebuked them in the name of Jesus Christ. Glory to Jesus! In a few meetings their devil inspired shouts for mastery were hushed, and they remained away from the meeting. So the Church of the Living God had perfect peace, harmony and victory. “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the devil, and satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.

And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, now is come salvation, and strength and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” — Rev. 12:9-12.

O what waves of glory and streams of love came to the little ones as we met in the unity of the Spirit. A few times it seemed we were carried to the very gates of heaven. The trouble had been through some who had always been aspiring for leadership in sect babylon and their kin, and were led by this leading devil to set themselves as lords over God’s heritage. There had been no elder yet ordained, but to avoid the grating teachership of those deluded spirits, the Church desired the ordained deacon to take the oversight, until the Lord made known who His elder should be. One night when this brother was before the congregation with Bible in hand, about to read to the Church, satan showed his impudence in a deluded woman by her jumping up and stepping round to the front of the brother and beginning to read. And when she was demanded to take her seat, she did so, but kept up a delusive howl, preventing the hearing of the Word.

To all the saints we say, suffer no element not in fellowship with the Church, to assume membership therein: for every thing not in harmony with God’s Church, is not of God’s Church. Yea not in God’s Church at all, and should be knocked down under the blood by the hammer of God’s Word, or fired out by the Holy Spirit. Then will the Church have peace and prosperity; and then will be “heard aloud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down.”

Praise God! Satan would suggest, do not cut them off, but try to save them.

Well, such efforts are all right. It is well first to “come in love,” mildly, but when that fails, then as Paul says, “come with a rod,” which is only love intensified. And generally these “spirits can only be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus,” by delivering them over to satan for the destruction of the flesh.

A few honest souls who were in their coils, got their eyes open and escaped from the slime and embrace of satan’s love.

God also blessed the Church with the convertion of 8 or 10 sinners, probibly near that number were sanctified in the nine days that we labored there.

Sabbath March the 7th, the saints, 10 or 50 in number, met again at the house of dear Bro. and sister Frazier, and the Lord Jesus in the midst. It was a glorious feast, all bound in pure love, and knit together in the power of the Holy Spirit. After teaching and admonishing the dear beloved saints, and a glorious testimony service, about 18 souls bowed, down at the altar, a number of whom received the grace of entire sanctification. Others, young and old, were strengthened and advanced.

Five dear saints received the mighty healing touch of Divine power, by the laying on of hands.

Dear Bro. George Nelson, having been pointed out by the Spirit of the Lord, as the Divinely ordained Eider, received the laying on of hands in recognition of, and dedication to that office in the body of Christ. May the Lord bless his dear soul and give him great wisdom and boldness by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Lord having sent dear Bro. Joseph Smith from Lacota, and Bro. Lowe from Breedsville, they carried us to Bro. Abbott’s at Geneva Center where we met another host of beloved saints, and our dear Bro. and sister S. Michels. Glory to Jesus! We had good meeting together, many shouts of praise. O what a heaven on earth is the fellowship of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and the blood washed saints. O glory to Jesus forever! O it is getting better and better on this blessed high way of holiness.

Sing of salvation, O what a theme, See from the throne a heavenly stream; O it is flowing deep in my soul, Flashing with glory as it doth roll.

Daniel.

==========

Bangor Mich.

Dear Brethren: — My testimony this morning is that I am sweetly saved of God Sanctified, meet for the Master’s use. abounding continually in the work of the Lord. Many souls have been, and are being saved throughout this part of the country. Praise God for salvation full and free Amen!

A. B. Palmer.

PERFECTION IN CHRIST.

By S. L. Speck.

—:o:—

BUT we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the spirit, and belief of the truth.” — 2 Thess. 2:13.

We gather from the above quotation, that sanctification is essential to salvation, and not only essential to, but is salvation itself, when obtained and possessed in the soul. Salvation in the Bible sense “is deliverance from natural or moral evil.”

Hence the soul in possession of it knows no bondage; only the bond of love which is perfection. Sanctification “is a perfect conformity of the heart and life to the will of God.” A soul that is in possession of such a blessed reality feels within, no unholy, disagreeable, or carnal emotions. “But all is joy and peace in the Holy Ghost.” His heart, life and will is so merged into the love of Jesus Christ that all the enticements the devil presents to him appear very insignificant; so much so that his soul abhors the thought of indulging in any of his vices. God has perfect sway in his soul. Yes it is God that worketh in him “to will and to do of His own good pleasure.” Hallelujah! The great eternal Fountain of Spiritual blessings is constantly springing up in him unto everlasting life, and flooding his soul with glory: so that his heart is lifted up in ceasless gratitude to God for his salvation through the blood of Jesus. I have seen those that were opposed to sanctification and at the same time claim to have salvation. But I assert by the authority of the Word of God that no one can light sanctification or holiness, and at the same time posesss justification. For Paul says, in 2nd Thess. 2:13, 14, that “God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the spirit, and belief of the truth: Whereunto (“Unto salvation through sanctification.”) He called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” So you can see by the latter quotation that salvation and glory is the effects of sanctification or holiness. Sanctification and holiness are synonymous terms, both meaning the same thing. In 1 Thess. 4: 7, we read, “God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.” Uncleanness is opposite to holiness, and represents sin. Why does He urge us unto holiness? Because He says, in Heb, 12:14, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, (revised version, sanctification) without, which no man shall see the Lord.” So it is necessary to be made holy in order to see God.

In what sense are we to be holy? In the sense of being free from all sin. “But now being made free from sin, and become servants of God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. — Rom. 6:22. “As obedient children not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts, in your ignorance: But as He, which hath called you, is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, “be ye holy; for I am holy.” — 1 Pet. 1:14-16.

How holy (pure) is the Lord Jesus Christ? “who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.” — 1 Pet. 2:22.

“He that saith he abideth in Him (in Jesus) ought himself also so to walk even as He walked.” — 1 John 2:6. Again, “be ye therefore, perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. — Matt. 5:45.

The latter quotation has no allusion directly or indirectly to mental, physical or adamic perfection. But adamic purity or Christian perfection. We teach, and so does the Bible teach equality with Christ in purity, but not in maturity, in kind, but not in degree. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus; Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God.” – Phil. 2: 5, 6. Equal with Jesus, not in wisdom or power, but in purity. Absolute perfect ion appertains to God alone. John in to first epistle and 3d chapter, starts out thus, Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God! -Behold, now are we the sons of God; and it doth yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when He shall appear we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in him (that is of seeng Jesus as He is) purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” – 3:1-3. How pure? “without spot and blameless.” – 2 Pet. 3:14. Hallelujah to God, for the blessed union of the sacred Word of God!

Again we read in Heb. 2:11. “Both He that sanctifieth, and they who are sanctified, are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren.”

Who is it that sanctifieth? “Wherefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered without the gate.” — 13:12. “The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his Master. — Luke 6: 40. “For by one offering He hath perfected forever them that are sanctified; whereof (of which perfection) the Holy Ghost, is a witness unto us.” — Heb. 10: 14, 15. All anti-holiness people that claim that we can’t be holy in this life treat God with dishonesty. For God does actually enjoin holiness upon His people and to be obtained in this life. Now for proof we will quote Titus 2:12. — “For the grace of God, that bringeth salvation, hath appeared to all men. Teaching us, that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly (God-like) in this present world,”

The last quotation will convince any candid mind that we must be holy in this life. “The oath which He sware to our father Abraham. That He would grant unto us, that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him, all the days of our life,” -Luke 1:73-75.

“Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Chist, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the Everlasting Covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you that which is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ: to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen!” — Heb. 13:21, 23.

Bangor, Mich.

__________

OBITUARIES.

—:o:—

John Lowe, Child of Bro. & sister Lowe in Breedsville Mich. Aged eleven months. Died March first 1886. Funeral service were held by the writer in a meeting house of that town.

A germ on earth, a Gem in heaven,
Life’s dangers all with thee are o’er,
But loaned to us; to Jesus given,
We’ll join thee on bright Heavens shore

Daniel.

-:o:-

Ernest: Youngest son of Sister Hannah and Elisha Corwin, Bangor Mich., passed from earth to glory Jan. 13, 1886. Aged, 7 years, 7 months and 9 days.

_____

Rachel Izora: Beloved daughter of Sister Alice and Frank Harrington, Bangor Mich., went home to be with Jesus through all Eternity, March 8, 1886. Aged 6 years, 6 months, and 25 days.

“We are listening to the voices
Of our friends across the tide,
And we have the blest assurance
That none of them have died.
They have only gone before us
Through the bright and pearly gate,
And they earnestly implore us
To be faithful, watch and wait
They tell us that in heaven;
Where, immortal spirits reign,
When the weary watch is over,
We shall meet them all again;
Then we’ll wait a little longer,
As the future looks so bright,
And our faith is growing stronger,
That all will yet be right.”

__________

My Dearly Beloved Brethren: – God bless you. O the glory that is in my soul and the wonderful power that He is manifesting to those that have received the Word at this place. The saints meet togather often, and the Lord Jesus meets with us. Praise His holy name forever! we met yesterday March 7th at Prospect U. B. church house. The Lord met with us, and gave us much liberty in presenting the straight word of God. The dear saints were wonderfully blessed. Five came to the altar to seek sanctification. Two received the sanctifier, and testified before the world of the power of God. Praise God! one of that number is my dear mother. Glory Hallelujah to the Lamb forever and ever! O the work is going on and His name is getting the praise. I praise God for a full and complete salvation in Christ Jesus; one that takes away all filthiness of the flesh, and makes us free. May the Lord bless us all and keep us in the narrow way. Amen! Pray for me and my companion, and all the little ones at this place, that the Lord may keep us from sin, and direct us in the good way.

H. C. Wickersham.