10 September 1896, Volume 16, Number 36.
NONE BUT JESUS.
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No one e’er pointed out the road
That leads up to that blest abode,
No one such blessings e’er bestowed.
But Jesus.
No one that we have ever known
Has ever sacrificed a throne,
And come to claim us as his own,
But Jesus.
No one e’er came to make the call
That he his kingdom might install,
And give his life blood once for all,
But Jesus.
No one e’er walked upon the sea,
No one e’er died upon the tree,
That from that debt we might be free,
But Jesus.
No one can ever make the boast
That he has yielded up the ghost.
To save from death so great a host,
But Jesus.
No one such miracles e’er wrought,
No one such lessons ever taught.
And comfort gave and pleasure brought,
But Jesus.
No one did ever yet arise
From lowly tent to vaulted skies
With all that it to us implies,
But Jesus.
No one e’er wore a robe so white.
No one e’er cast such shining light,
No one e’er made our paths so bright,
But Jesus.
No one is there who intercedes,
And with our Father daily pleads,
And knows full well our wants and needs,
But Jesus.
No one e’er drove away the gloom
That clusters ’round the dismal tomb,
And in its stead made flowers to bloom,
But Jesus.
Selected.
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Do Not Complain.
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IMMORTAL man, let not the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, the seduction of pleasure, the dreams of ambition, lead you to forget that your true life begins with death, and your real home is not earth, but heaven. Let nothing bind you with such strong attachments here that you would rather stay in the prison of the mortal body and wear your chains that bind you so tight than depart this life and go forth into everlasting light and liberty.
Truly, the great Sodom is portrayed in our land in these last days. To view ancient Sodom with a historical eye, then view the present; we must see a greater need of a haven of rest outside of all human help.
When we see men and women, boys and girls, old and young, all clamoring for the mighty dollar, forgetting God and all of his offered mercies, we are compelled to stop and wonder. How is it? Men will try to gain wealth, even at the peril of everlasting life, joy, and peace; when the scripture saith, “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” — Matt. 26:26.
How useless it is to spend all of our precious moments in worry and toil to accumulate wealth for old age and wet days, when, after your barns and storehouses are filled, the messenger may come, summoning you to another world. Then you may realize, when too late, the warning wherein it speaketh on this wise. ‘Thou fool, this night thy soul snail be required of thee: then whose shall those things be that thou hast provided?” — Luke 12:20.
Do not toil day after day, year after year, trying to get rich; for what saith the scriptures? “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.” — 1 Tim. 6:9.
Can you not imagine the great whirlpool of humanity all trying to carve a name of honor in this world? Go to the great cities, and see the many marts, how they work to excel all others, then the many places that are hid from public view and known only to the world of lewdness, also the gorgeous so-called churches, which rightly named would be called club rooms (How guilty they are of rivalry!’’), then the farmer, the smith, the miner, all striving for the one thing, money! MONEY!! MONEY!!! But the Word declares, “The love of money is the root of all evil.” — 1 Tim. 6:10.
Why not begin to-day to serve God in spirit and in truth? Jesus stands ready to receive you, ready to dethrone that kingly heart that is so taken up with this world; ready to give you the mind that thinks it not robbery to be equal with God, to make your life of worry and fretfulness a feel of contentment and peace. Then, why will you burrow yourself beneath this mountain of worldly cares, that God’s truth cannot reach you and set you free?
He speaks plainly and in words of love: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” — 1 Jno. 2:15-17.
Now, are you ready to answer this question? Are you doing the whole will of God? It is not the will of our heavenly Father that we should worry about what we shall eat and wear. He knows what we have need of. But here is his will, that we should rejoice even in the spoiling of our goods. Let us illustrate by the present wet weather. We hear many – complaining and grumbling because of the destruction of goods, caused by the Omnipotent Hand sending rain, wherein we should greatly rejoice, knowing that our Father doeth all things well.
Dear ones, we have the blessed assurance of all our needs supplied, if we only hearken unto the voice of our Commander. “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.” — Joel 2:12, 13.
If this be done, why need we fret and worry about temporal things, for God will “answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith. Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field: for the pastures of the wilderness do spring, for the tree beareth her fruit, the fig tree and the vine do yield their strength.” — Verses 19-22. Read the remainder of the chapter, then before God, never be found complaining, all ye that profess to be the children of Zion.
CHARLES FORD.
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Sanctification.
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TO ITS OPPOSERS.
“FOR this is the will of God, even your sanctification.” — 1 Thess. 4:3.
This passage of scripture was discussed in the Trumpet of Aug. 27, to the effect that sanctification is an INESTIMABLE GIFT OF GOD; while this article will treat on it as a COMMAND.
At man’s first existence on this earth as a beings we find him placed under certain restrictions. Sin only exists through the violation of law. Therefore, when man was under obligations, he could commit sin, and through the infringement of these he fell. Though the Law was not given until Moses (Jno. 1:17; 7:19; Heb. 9:18 — 22), yet death reigned from Adam to Moses (Rom. 5:14.), even over those that had not sinned as Adam.
God has had different ways of dealing with his people in different epochs of time. They were under certain regulations, and the breaking of these was disobedience to God; but not after the similitude of Adam’s transgression.
And yet we find man still under law, not the old law (2 Cor. 3), but the new. Heb. 8:7 — 13. And all depends upon that Jaw, as to what we shall call sin. Whatever this law forbids or enjoins upon you, you are under obligations to obey, or become a sinner in the sight of God.
It will do you no good whatever, to try to hide behind the old law, nor any of your creeds and confessions of faith. Whatever is enjoined upon you by Christ or the apostles you must surely obey. See 1 Pet. 1:23 — 25. Rom. 2:16. Jno. 12:48.
Paul says, “We shall be judged by Jesus Christ, according to his gospel.” And the same Paul writes, “This is the will of God even your sanctification.”
Now dear ones in opposition to holiness, contemplate over this, “lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.”
Do you realize this: that it is a command? If so, by whom was it given; God or man? If it was given by God, why do you reject and hesitate to obey it? If by man please prove it. See Gal. 1:11 — 12.
God is to be respected as an alwise Lord, and to whatever laws he legislates or teaches, you should show loyal allegiance. It is not that we should question his plans and enacted just laws; but it has ever been the trick of Satan to instigate such thoughts in the minds of the people.
And now, dear ones, if we find existing in God’s holy word, the doctrine of “sanctification,” and find it spoken of as a command, are you going to be so self-willed as to rebel against the very wisdom of God? Can you thus reject his word, and still profess to be a Christian?
Oh what a shame to see even preachers fight this doctrine, and professors by the thousands, and still claim to be obeying the Bible: while we find not only the command to be sanctified, in the scriptures; but all the conditions requisite to your sanctification are found there.
Some day we will stand before the great Tribunal of Justice, and there we will give an account of every unjust deed of which we are guilty; and everyone will receive condemnation who has not obeyed the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thess. 1:7-10.), when he comes in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who know not him and obey not his gospel. And remember this, dear ones, that his gospel teaches “sanctification” (Jno. 17:17-22. Rom. 15:16.2 Thess. 2:13. 1 Thess. 5:23. 1 Cor. 1:30.), and if you are not living to it when you know that it teaches it, you will come short in that “great day” when we are judged by the gospel.
The thoughts portrayed in 1 Thess. 4:3-4 are palpably seen to be these: First, it is God’s will that you be sanctified. Secondly, you are under this obligation, and should obey it.
Then dear opponent of sanctification, stop and see what you are doing. You will find you are fighting against the will of God to his people. And also disobeying that which you ought to be honest enough to obey and acknowledge; namely, sanctification. It makes no difference whether you like the doctrine or not; you must obey it just the same.
If it were a doctrine of man, you could have an excuse for refusing to obey it, but it is written among the commands of the everlasting covenant, and to disobey it is to directly disobey God. To fight it is much worse. So, in the name of Jesus, what do you find as an excuse, which allows you to fight it.
It is nothing less than insubordination for us to refuse to be governed by any of God’s laws. We must become subject to the law of God’s house (1 Tim. 3:15), if we expect to become or remain, an inhabitant of the same. Ezek. 43:10-12. You owe due allegiance in all things to God, in sanctification as well as any other doctrine.
Sanctification, therefore, is a command or obligation enjoined upon all believers, to believers only, and to them very forcibly. To escape this, one must do away with part of the New Testament commands. And how dare you do it?
But realize this one thing, “If a man love me he will keep my words.” — Jno. 14:23. “He * * * that keepeth them, he it is that loveth me.” — Ver. 21. “He that saith I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” — 1 Jno. 2:4. Again, “This is his will even your sanctification.” “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” — Jas. 2:10.
What are you going to do about it? Are you going to disobey? If so, you will be cut off and condemned, and are of all men most miserable and to be pitied. Amen.
CHARLIE AKERS.
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Cigarette-smoking.
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CIGARETTE-SMOKING was formerly confined to the Cubans, but has now become the favorite mode of smoking among our young men and boys of to-day. It is by far the most injurious mode of tobacco-using. The use of cigarettes to-day among our young people is appalling and cannot be too severely condemned. It is common, especially in large cities, to see little boys at the age of ten, eight, and sometimes even six years smoking the deadly thing.
These cigarettes are chiefly made of the cheapest materials, such as refuse tobacco and cigar stumps. Saltpeter is freely used to keep them from becoming musty. This saltpeter is very injurious. It has been discovered that cigarettes are often impregnated with opium. Sometimes the paper wrapper contains lead or arsenic and sometimes both.
The boy who indulges in cigarette-smoking is undermining his health and intellect at the very onset of his youthful existence, and if it be continued until the age of twenty-one, he will find himself a sufferer from its effects, either physically or mentally. Dr. Lewis says, “No devotee of the cigarette has graduated at the head of his class at Harvard or any other college where statistics have been preserved.”
It is astonishing how so many boys have been deceived and ruined by this pernicious habit. Many of them, however, do not see its deadly effects until it is too late. Even when told and warned of the perils thus incurred, they will not believe it. Do they not see their older companions using cigarettes? Possibly their own father sets the example.
Will you be surprised when I tell you that women are becoming addicted to this habit? It is becoming a fashionable habit, reaching from the brothel to the wine and card parties of high society (?). Oh. how sad to see parents by their example lead their children to sure ruin! May God awaken fathers and mothers to do their duty to their children by discontinuing the deadly habit and warning them to forever avoid it.
Boys, pause a moment and consider, when you are tempted to light the cigarette and place it in your mouth. Think of the many diseased and filthy mouths from which has been cast away the tobacco refuse picked up on the street or in the public house and manufactured into the attractive and innocent-looking little roll. Think how it will irritate your throat, dull your brain, poison your blood, and, worse than all, bind you into a slavish habit which will drag you into other vices and eventually leave you in black despair.
No boy can continue the practice of cigarette-smoking without becoming physically or mentally injured. In many cases it has caused the death of the user. Indeed, it is asserted by some that so poisonous are its effects that it is almost sure to destroy life sooner or later.
Dear boy, think carefully and soberly. Can you afford to sell yourself into bondage for what ap-pears to you a momentary pleasure? God help every boy to ponder it well and then cast away the cursed thing and forever resolve to retain his freedom!
W. J. HENRY.
[This is a chapter taken from the new book, “Tobacco, Its Effects on the Entire System” which is now in course of publication. It will contain about 100 pages, and will be ready in a few weeks.]
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Testimonies.
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SARDIS, ARK.
To GOD’S DEAR CHILDREN: AS I know of no saints in this country and I have now been so long from any of God’s children in the evening light, I wish to write my testimony through the Trumpet. I was converted and came out of the Baptist sect in the spring of 1893, and I then consecrated ail to Jesus. Since that time, I have enjoyed a happy Christian life till within the last few months. I felt I did not enjoy such freedom as I had before, and I asked God to show me where I was. In answer to prayer God made known to me ray condition and I renewed my consecration. I now feel the need of God’s help to strengthen me and make me fit to be used at his bidding. I find the true light has never been preached at this place. I have been distributing Trumpets and tracts, which the people thankfully receive. They realize it is a much better way to live than they ever heard of before and are earnestly praying for ministers to come, preaching the “word of God” instead of “creeds and divisions.” Truly this is a large field for laborers. Pray earnestly that God may lead in this and send the ones that he sees fit. Also pray for me that God may place me where he can use me best to his glory. I expect by the grace of God to spend the remainder of my life in humility and true holiness. My mother has been healed, for which I sent request for prayer, and I give God the glory. Your sister in Christ,
IRILA JONES.
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Page 2
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THURSDAY, SEPT. 10, 1896.
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LIST OF MONET LETTERS NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED
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J. N. Howard. J. W. Byers, J. F. Lundy, E. Chase, E… Soules, 8. S. Harris. Jas. B. Shockley, Alice Burnett J. M. Hartman D. Staley, Wm. A. Caldwell.
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Four hundred six dollars and eighty-three cents have been sent in for purchasing new machinery. This is enough to pay for a thirty-five-horse-power boiler which we have just purchased, and the other machinery will be added as fast as the money is provided. Any one desiring to purchase any piece of machinery and call it his own can do so. Such can write us to know what is needed, and put it to work for God. We truly praise God for what he is doing.
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The school at the Children’s Home near here is now in progress and the work is moving on in the name of the Lord. The Lord has called Bro. W. B. Preston as teacher, and Bro. John Merica and wife are still in charge of the Home. Let us all pray the blessings of God upon them and that their labors may be crowned with success.
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The assembly meeting will begin about Oct. 15, to last eight or ten days. It will be held in the pavilion or the schoolhouse on the campground, one mile north of Grand Junction. Quite a number have written desiring to attend the meeting, and a general invitation is given to every lover of the truth. A number of God’s ministers will be present to deliver the word of God in its purity. The meeting will be nothing different from a regular camp meeting and is called an assembly meeting only because it is too cold to camp out. Places will be provided for those who come to attend the meeting. As many as possible should bring sufficient bedding to keep them comfortable. Come praying and believing for a glorious meeting and manifestation of the power of God and the outpouring of his Holy Spirit. Let every seeker for salvation or healing come in faith, doubting nothing, and the Lord will honor your faith on that line.
Grand Junction is situated in Van Buren Co., fifty-four miles south of Grand Rapids; twenty-nine miles west of Kalamazoo, on the Michigan Central, and Chicago and West Michigan Railways.
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Requests For Prayer.
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Pray that the debt on our tabernacle may be paid. If not paid by Sept. 25, it will be put on sale.
J. P. Lemons,
Kelat, Ky.
Louisa Summers, Hazelton, Ind. For healing of body, and that some true minister of God may come there and preach the Gospel.
J. B. Mills. Healing of gravel and rupture.
Pray Sept. 15 for my wife, who has fits. G. B. Thomas.
F. M. Derry, Leisure. Pray for his entire sanctification.
L. A. Holleman, Moore, desires the prayers of the saints for his healing and entire sanctification; and for the healing and salvation of his son, who is sadly afflicted.
There is a woman near here who has been possessed with devils for three years, who desires to have the people of God pray for her relief. Pray Sept. 27. C. H. Olson, Norwood.
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Calls For Meeting.
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Any of the Trumpet readers desiring to write to us about holding meetings or otherwise, may address us at Colfax, Wash. O. A. Chapman.
Some of God’s ministers are wanted to hold meetings four miles southwest of Cushing, Oklahoma, Address Charles A. Walker.
Who can come over to Bremen, Marshall Co., Ind. and hold forth the battle for the Lord? There are precious souls here, starving for the real word of God. Bremen is twenty-four miles southwest of Elkhart, Ind.; about thirty-five miles north of Beaver Dam, and on the B. & O. R. R. Brother S. L. Speck and Co wanted. Address me at Bremen, Ind., lock b x 241. D. W. Kryder.
A camp meeting or meeting of some kind by the saints of God is desired at Akin, Franklin Co., Ill. Address Milburn Sims.
The saints in Wichita, Kan. have opened a mission hall at 118 S. Main St., in which meetings will be held every night. Ministers and workers are desired to come at any time and help in the work there.
Some of God’s messengers have long been desired to come to East Hampton, Mass, and hold meeting. Address Elisha H. Crossman, lock box 167.
Meetings are wanted at Arlington, Okla.
Some minister filled with the power of God is wanted at Knoxville, Tenn. Address M. F. Roak, St. Clair, Tenn.
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MEETINGS.
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Bonfield Ill. (instead of Reddick). Tabernacle meeting, Sept. 11 (instead of 9). will last over two Sabbaths.
There will be an assembly meeting at Friend, Mo. beginning Sept. 14. We will have a tabernacle meeting. Bro. Kinzie and companion and others are expected. Any of God’s messengers who feel led to come we would be glad to have present.
G. S. Backus.
Rising Sun, O. Tabernacle meeting. Sept 15-25. Address Jacob Roush.
Tabernacle meeting at Union. Wetzel Co., W. Va., commencing about Sept. 17. Those coming from a distance address Bro. Anthony Showalters. Littleton on the B. & O. is the nearest station. G. T. Clayton.
Mendon, Mo. Tabernacle meeting. Beginning Sept. 18. Bro. and Sister Kinzie and others are expected. Address J. G. Neff.
Arapahoe, Okla. Camp meeting. Sept. 18-28. Will be held five and one-half miles southeast of Arapahoe. This place is about sixty miles west of Kingfisher. Okla. Anyone wanting further information address Bro. W. J. Newcomb, Arapahoe, Okla.
A general assembly meeting will be held by the saints of Kentucky, near Jeffersonville, Montgomery Co.; beginning Sept. 18, to continue over two Sundays, the Lord willing. A general invitation is given to all lovers of the truth. Bro. Keeling is expected. Thos. Carter.
Carthage, Mo. Assembly meeting. Beginning Sept. 20. Bros. Schell, Bolds, Sister Shoffner and others are expected Let every minister in Mo., Kan., Ind. Ter. and Ark. arrange to attend. Address
R. L. Berry.
There will be, the Lord willing, a tabernacle meeting six miles northwest of Belfonfaine, Ohio, near the home of Bro. Levi Yoder, commencing Sept. 19, to continue as long as the Lord wills. All that feel led of the Lord, come and help in the meeting. For information address Bro. Levi Yoder, Belfontaine, Ohio. Yours in Jesus, H. C. Wickersham.
There will be a camp or grove meeting near Chauncey, Athens Co., O. commencing Sept. 20 and lasting as long as the Lord wills. Let there be a general gathering together of the saints and all lovers of the truth in southern Ohio. Those coming on the Hocking Valley R. R. stop at Beaumont. Those coining on the T. & D. C. stop at Chauncey. Those coming on the B & O. S. W. change cars at Athens and take the H. V. for Chauncey. Arrangements will be made to accommodate all that come. W. A. Haynes and E. G. Masters will be there, and as many other workers as can, are requested to come. For further information correspond with Bro Geo. Williams, Chauncey, O.
North Enid, Okla. Camp meeting. Beginning Oct. 6. Address W. G. Rippey.
New Pittsburg, Ind. Assembly meeting. Beginning Oct. 1. Address H. C. Wickersham.
Camp meeting in Louisiana, thirteen miles east of Hammond, near Morris Retreat. Beginning Oct. 10.
Clayton, Okla. Camp meeting. Oct. 23 -Nov. 2, on the home and school ground. M. A. Fly, Clayton, Okla.
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Announcement.
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GRAND JUNCTION, MICH.
DEAR READERS OF THE TRUMPET: I am rejoicing in the full and perfect salvation of my soul through the blood of Jesus, and I am happy indeed in obeying God’s call to me to be used of him in teaching the school at the Children’s Home. School has commenced and good interest is manifested by the children. Out* aim is to make the school a thorough success in its ostensible purpose, the education of the children. The common school studies are to have their full place and time in the schoolroom.
Salvation will be taught in the schoolroom mainly by example, God helping us, and the Holy Spirit permeating all our teaching and ruling the whole conduct of school, teacher, and the Home. The prime object, the salvation of the children, will be sought by surrounding them with the sweetening and keeping influence of “Christ in us” in all who are connected with the care and instruction of the children. Special meetings for the children will be held at their proper time as the Lord may direct, but it is not expected that they will usurp the proper time of the school work to be done. We truly feel that God has his hand upon us for the progress of the school along all right lines, and we ask the saints to join with us in humble, earnest prayer that God will keep everything on this camp ground in his own order, and bless our humble efforts with much success, all for his own glory.
We feel that it will be to God’s glory to state that we have had nine years of successful experience in teaching district schools, and at the present time hold a valid teacher’s license for three years to teach in DeKalb County, Ind.
The following books are needed, as it is much better to have the pupils in each class supplied with the same sort of books throughout that class: The entire series of Harpers’ Readers and Geographies. Ray’s New Practical and New Elementary Arithmetic’s, Harvey’s Revised English Grammar, Swinton’s Language Primer, Harrington’s Graded Speller, Swinton’s Word Primer, Barnes’ Brief History of the United States, Steele’s Hygienic Physiology, Kellogg’s First Book in Physiology and Hygiene.
Any who have such books and feel like giving or lending them to the Lord for the children’s use may send them to me at Grand Junction.
Ministers who have children to send here may expect with confidence that they will be reared and instructed to the glory of God. Obedience and an effort to learn is the tuition, and every man, woman, and child that stays on the ground, is expected to be saved. If any children who come are unsaved, we will use every means within reach of God-given love to get them saved. Your brother in the body of Christ, fully redeemed by his precious blood and consecrated to his service,
WILLIS B. PRESTON.
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The Two Families.
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SEEING a piece in the Trumpet of July 23 about the two mothers, I feel led of the Lord to write about the two families. By reading God’s word we learn that there are two families, and that we are members of either the one or the other. One is the family of God, and the other is the family of the devil. The children of God are all one in Christ Jesus. The children of the devil include, 1st, sinners; 2d, hypocrites; 3d, formal professors; 4th, false prophets or teachers.
In John 8:44 the Word says, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar and the father of it.”
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose, was the son of God manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed [word of God] remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” — 1 Jno. 3:8-10.
“Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. O generation of vipers, how can ye. being evil, speak good things? For cut of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.” — Matt. 12:33-35.
FALSE PROPHETS.
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the tire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” — Matt. 7:15-20.
“And many false prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many.’’ — Matt. 24:11.
“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.” — 1 Tim. 4:1-3.
Who are the ones that have departed from the faith, and given heed to seducing spirits, but the Roman Catholics forbidding the marriage of the clergy and commanding to abstain from meat on certain days; also, the Adventists, commanding to abstain from pork, and some of them command to abstain from all meat? And have not the Advents prophesied falsely, when they prophesied that the world would come to an end on a certain day and hour? And because it did not come to pass as they prophesied, they say, We are men with finite minds and liable to make mistakes. Instead of the world coming to an end, it was a great reformation that took place about that time. Now is it reasonable to try to make people with sound minds believe that God would cause his prophets to prophesy of the world coming to an end on a certain day and hour and then bring something else to pass? Would not God be the author of deception and falsehood?
In 2 Tim. 3:5-7 we learn of another class of false teachers, “having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof; from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” Now who is the apostle speaking of here if it is not of the Mormon preachers that would deceive women and make them believe that they were coming to Mount Zion (Salt Lake City) and induce them to take part in the hand-cart scheme and take that disastrous trip across the plains to Salt Lake City to become wives and concubines of prophets and priests of the devil? Such have a form of godliness and by it deceive the unwary.
The children of God are not so. They do not deceive any ore, but rather undeceive and lead from captivity to liberty and oneness in Christ. “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” — Gal. 3:26. And all have the same name. Eph. 3:14,15 – “For this cause I bow my knee unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.” “There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” — Eph. 4:4-6. These all measure up to the word of God.
In Heb. 10:25, we have this exhortation: “Not forsaking the assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more as ye see the day approaching.” Now we believe that there can be a measuring up on this line, especially in harvest time on this coast. Some will work so hard in harvest that they are unable to assemble on the Lord’s day to worship God, and then when harvest is over, they cry, My leanness. This with some amounts to a fault. Now brethren, we know that we have to work hard during the week; but should we work so hard during the week that we cannot work for the Lord on Lord’s day? The children of the devil assemble together every rainy day or on every Lord’s day-some at the saloon, some at one place, some at another. Now do God’s people work harder during the week than sinners? Is there anything in God’s word that says that we need not assemble together on the Lord’s day, during harvest or any other season of the year? Someone may say: We must take care of what God has given us. What does Jesus say about worldly rare?
“Therefore, take no thought, saying: What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Where withal shall we be clothed? (for after all these things do the Gentiles seek): for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” — Matt. 6:31-34.
Now brethren, do not think that I would say to be careless or slothful about what God has given us, but do not be overly careful about these worldly cares, and slothful about the service of God. Amen.
O. A. CHAPMAN.
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Evil Speaking.
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“PUT them in mind * * * to speak evil of no man; to be no brawler, but gentle, showing all meekness unto all men.” — Tit. 3:1,2. “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.” — Eph. 4:31. “Speak evil of no man” is a command to be observed as much as, “Thou shalt not steal,” but how few regard this command! “If any man among you seem to be religious and bridleth not his tongue, but decieveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” — Jas. 1:26. Then how many professors are void of Bible salvation? Evil speaking is to speak evil; to relate to one the fault of another. We might class with it, backbiting and whispering. “And withal they learn to be idle, wandering from house to house, and not only idle, but tattlers also, and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.” — 1 Tim. 5:13. “But let none of you suffer*** as a busybody in other men’s matters.” — 1 Pet. 4:15. “A talebearer, revealeth secrets, but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.” — Prov. 11:13. “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy broth-
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er. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it to the church; but if he neglects to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.” — Matt. 18:15 — 17.
R. BERT TAMPLIN.
LETTER FROM THE WEST INDIES.
BASSETERRE, SC. KITTS, WEST INDIES.
GOSPEL TRUMPET PUB. CO., DEAR BRETHREN: We are going ahead as best we can with the mission. The books I sent to you for, came all right, also the tracts you sent me for free distribution. I am very much pleased with them all and tried to keep one of each kind for myself. I have given the others away, putting them in wall pockets so the people could get them. I hope to send to you for some more tracts and papers as the Lord enables me to do so. I am so thankful for those you sent me free. We could distribute a couple of barrels full in a day if we had them. There is another brother here who desires some books and tracts. If I had some of the books on divine healing I would try and sell them. I am happy in Jesus now. All is well. Hallelujah! He is my Savior, Healer, and King. Much love to all the saints everywhere. Yours for Jesus,
FREDRICK A. BART.
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News from the Field.
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GRAND JUNCTION, MICH., Sept. 4.
On August 20, in company with Bro. A. B. Palmer, we started for the Payne, O. camp meeting, stopping one night with the church in Kalamazoo. A number of brethren drove from forty to sixty-five miles to this meeting. Notwithstanding the frequent storms and wet weather, there was a fair attendance, and the glory of God rested in the midst of the camp, and his power was manifest in the salvation of souls, healing of the sick, and the imparting of light and truth to his people. Peace and harmony prevailed, and the children of God were knit together in the bonds of holy love. After remaining about five days, Bro. Strang and I went on to the Emlenton, Pa. C. M. and arrived in time to spend five days in that meeting. There we found the work going on nicely and the Word being preached in its purity. A real making spirit of holy fellowship was convincing, and as the blessed truths of the gospel were presented, many yielded, and were delivered from the guilt and bondage of sin and made happy in the love of Jesus. Some were delivered by the power of God from the appetite of tobacco, morphine, and other unnatural appetites and their souls filled with the glory of God. There were a number of healing services. On Saturday evening a fast was begun for the benefit of the work the next day, and truly Sunday was a precious time. One hour was spent in praying for and anointing the sick according to Jas. 5:14, during which time over forty persons received the healing touch of the Lor Jesus and were healed according to their faith. One man whose ear had been totally deaf for a number of years had his hearing restored, and could not wait until services were over without telling the people what the Lord had done for him. Others testified that they were instantly healed of rheumatism, catarrh, and various other diseases of long duration. As the power of God descended upon his children, shouts and praises ascended and the name of the Lord was glorified.
Bros. J. T. Stowe, I. S. McCoy, and A. T. Rowe were ordained by the laying on of hands, to the work of the ministry and acknowledged as elders in the church of God to which calling the Lord had already chosen them and they had given full proof of their calling. Twenty- were baptized and about one hundred forty took part in the ordinance service of feet-washing and the Lord’s supper. Bros. Kilpatrick, Dillon, Strang, Henry, Hunter, and a number of ministerial brethren from Pennsylvania were present to deliver the word of God in its purity. From there Bro. Strang and I traveled across the country with other brethren by team to the home of Bro. and Sister Dillon at McLallen Corners where we held one meeting and left Bro. Strang and Bro. Dillon to continue, and I started home, arriving safely this morning.
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FULTON, MICH., Aug. 29.
DEAR TRUMPET READERS: May you ever abound in the grace of God, is my prayer. We are in company with Bro. Edward Ellis and wife in tabernacle-meeting work. Have had meeting at Hudson and Auburn, and at Brushy Prairie, Ind., and at Hatmaker, Mich., and are now in a meeting at this place. The Lord gives us victory and keeps us saved. Amen. I am your brother,
T. J. Cox.
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TOMNOLEN, MISS.
DEAR SAINTS: I have for three months been engaged in labor for the Lord in Alabama, which proved to be a great benefit to myself and others. Truly I believe the camp meeting near Hartsells to have been a success. It resulted in the salvation of quite a number of souls, and healing of the sick. Praise God! After the close of meeting there the Lord blessed me with the happy privilege of returning to meet loved ones at home. If the Lord wills, we will go to Vow- ell camp meeting, and from there, as the Lord directs. Any one desiring meeting, address me at Tomnolen, Miss. Pray for me and mine. Your saved sister, kept by power divine,
G. A. THOMAS.
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AUBURN, NEB., Aug. 30.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: We are still holding forth the pure word of life in the name and strength of Jesus. We began meeting at Nemaha City, Neb., Aug. 4. in company with Bro. and Sister Kinzie and Bro. Backus. It was a new field. Some were converted and a little church established. We then came to Glenrock, and held forth the Word over two weeks. This was a glorious victory on God’s side. Souls were saved and the church established at this place. We start to attend the general camp meeting. Pray for us that God will keep us humble. Your free brother in the one body,
JAMES WILLIS.
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FREETRADE, MISS.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: I am praising God for this great salvation so full and free. I am out in the vineyard working for the Lord. Oh, how glorious to work for Jesus! I have been working in a good meeting in Scott Co., Miss. The Lord has blessed our labor. Several got saved and will follow the Lord in baptism. There are many places in Mississippi where the gospel has never been preached. The people want some of God’s ministers to come and help us. The people are running to fro, seeking for knowledge. Praise the name of Jesus for saving me and giving me victory over sin and the devil! Brethren, pray for me. Your brother in Christ,
J. B. MILLS.
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TIDIOUTE, PA., Aug.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: We are glad to tell you that we are saved and kept by the mighty power of God. We are glad to report victory on the Lord’s side, and that the work is moving on at this place. The ordinance-meeting on the 23d was a soul-refreshing time. three souls followed the dear Lord in baptism, and about twenty-three partook of the ordinances of feet-washing and the Lord’s supper. Bro. and Sister Taylor and Bro. Charles Stewart were present from East Hickory and much used of the Lord in singing and preaching the Word. Our souls were much strengthened and encouraged to preach his word. The work of the Lord is spreading in this county. Your brother, all sold out to God,
H. T. GIBSON.
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MARSHALL, OKLA.
DEAR BRETHREN: We are happy to report that we are sweetly saved in Jesus. The camp meeting at Marshall is past; it was a glorious feast, and the largest encampment of saints ever held in Oklahoma Ter. Victory was perched on Israel’s banner from the beginning to the end. Toward the close of the meeting nineteen happy souls were buried with Christ in baptism. Many were wonderfully healed by the power of God. The ordinances of feet-washing and the Lord’s supper were observed by seventy-five happy saints. A number of messengers were present, who were much used of God in presenting gospel truths to the large crowds that gathered to hear the words of the Lord. Yours in Jesus,
J. W. W. NEWKIRK,
S. P. MCCULLY AND Co.
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GRANT’S PASS, ORE., Sept. 1.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: Blessed be the name of our King! We thank our Lord for his goodness and mercies extended continually unto the children of men. We have just closed a meeting on Jones Creek. The Lord was with us in saving power. There were seven who claimed salvation, and they are faithfully contending for his came; also twelve were buried with their Savior in baptism. Believers and all were settled down in his order. Peace and harmony seemed to reign supreme, and we believe the good work will continue to prosper. Pray for us that we may ever be kept low down at the feet of Jesus. Yours fully saved,
E. PUGH AND, D. D. ADAMS.
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BOWMAN, OKLA, Sept. 1.
To THE BELOVED SAINTS: We are praising God for full salvation. Praise his holy name! Since we have been in Oklahoma we have been holding several meetings, with good success. The Lord has been with us giving us victory. We were with Bro. Houghton in a few meetings, also with Bro. Newkirk in three meetings, which were very precious. The C. M. near Marshall, Okla. was a success, although much opposition existed. The Lord was in much power in the Word as it went forth, and numbers were saved and healed. My dear companion had been very sick for over or nearly thirty days, but in answer to prayer and following the Word in Jas. 5:14, 15, she was gloriously healed. Numbers were healed on the grounds. Praise the Lord for his infinite mercy! I realize that we are settling into the deeper things of God, especially his love arid humility. Praise his holy’ name! Still keep praying for us, for we need your prayers. Yours in the love of Jesus,
WM. N. AND S. J. SMITH.
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SICKELS; MICH., Aug 31.
DEAR SAINTS: I write to report victory at St. Louis camp meeting. The mighty power of God was made manifest from the beginning to the end of the meeting. Precious souls were saved by the mighty power of God. One young man hitched up his team and started to. leave the camp grounds, but was captured by the Searcher of all hearts. Twenty-six were buried with Christ into baptism. My father went to the camp ground upon crutches, unable even to turn himself in bed. After being anointed with oil and having holy hands laid upon him, through the prayer of faith he was instantly healed, and he walked into the pavilion a few moments later and preached. A large number were healed. The Lord visited his people in power during the ordinance-meeting. During the time between the ordinances of feet-washing and the Lord’s supper the Spirit laid it upon the hearts of some of the brethren to pray for the healing of two young ladies who were deaf and dumb, who had been saved, sanctified, and baptized during the meeting; and in answer to prayer they were made to shout praises to God. Truly, our God is on Zion’s side and these signs shall follow those who believe. Precious souls were edified and built up in the things of God. Our God is truly leading his little ones. To him be all the glory and honor forever. Amen.
LILLIAN HALL.
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SAINTS’ HOME.
PULLMAN, WASH.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD, ESPECIALLY THOSE IN THE NORTHWEST: God has been putting it on me to write to you in the interest of the Saints’ Home and School in Washington. This institution is now nearly two years old and there have been two spring terms of school held with an average of about fifty scholars.
Now I will say to the saints that the building is unfinished and I do believe it to be the will of God to commence an eight months’ school by the middle of September or the first of October. But to do this, you see, will include the winter months. In order to hold a winter term, the building will have to be completed. As yet there is but one room in the house that is finished. The home is not comfortable even fur those that remain in the home through the cold winter months. In order to finish the building, which I believe to be to the glory of God, it will take about $500.00 worth of lumber, hardware, and paint. This amount will, I think, finish the house and put up another building to be used for a laundry. This laundry building will be built large enough to accommodate a man and his wife, besides rooms enough for a few children.
Dear ones, I do believe that God is the same yesterday, to-day, and forever; but he requires more of some people than he does of others, and that he requires of us (that now live in the Spirit dispensation) as much or more than of any other people that has ever lived on the face of the earth. We cannot think of falling back or down to a plane which we used to live on, no more than the first disciples could fall back to their old manner of life, or the children of Israel could go back to their leeks and onions or turn back into the wilderness from the land of Canaan.
Ungodly as most public schools of this age are, we ought to encourage with our prayers and means every institution of learning conducted on a Christian basis See 1 Cor. 6:17, 18. Now, dear saints, we ask you to join with us in the one-accord prayer that God may have the much needed means sent in at once without delay.
God has answered our prayer in laying his hand on dear Bro. G. W. Bailey to come from North Dakota to take charge of the schoolroom. The school will still need one more teacher, if it is as well attended as it has been in the other two terms, and I do not know why there should not be a better attendance than at either of the other terms. We will also need a man and wife for cooks, a laundry woman and a man to act as general teamster and farmer. The laundry woman, will have charge of the washing and ironing and assist in patching and mending.
No one will receive any salary only as he or she can prevail on God to give it. We all look to God for our support, but, while we look to God for our daily bread we would exhort you, my brethren, to read with care 1 Jno. 3:17; Luke 3:11; also read Matt. 25:33-46.
So, dear ones, you talk to the Lord about this matter and if he would have you to respond in any way and you wish any information, you can write or come and see. You will find us anxious to write or talk to you to the best of our knowledge and ability. Praise the Lord! Your saved brother,
JAMES BAMFORD.
Testimonies.
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GRADY, TENN.
DEAR SAINTS: I will write my testimony for the first time. In the spring of 95 we first heard the evening light preached in all its purity. There are many here that are rejecting the truth; only three of us have come out straight for the Lord. We are praising the Lord for full and free salvation. We have come out of sectism and politics and picnics and all worldly amusements; we have no taste for such things. We trust some true minister led of the Lord will come here to the rescue of perishing souls. Yours in Christ,
A. W. HARRIS.
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HARBOR SPRINGS, MO.
DEAR TRUMPET READERS: My heart is aching to hear the word of God spoken in its purity once more. We are praying God to send some of his true ministers here again, and do believe he will. Join in with us and ask God to send someone here, if possible, to make it their home in this place; for some are spiritually starving to death for the real bread of life. Sometimes it comes to me in despair, as it did to Christ on the cross, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” and the answer comes, ‘Have patience.” Now, all who read this, pray for us that we may have patience and wait and be firm for God. Pray for my companion who is in poor health, and also for myself. Your sister in Christ, saved, sanctified, and kept,
MRS. D. H. RADLE.
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Obituary.
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Hollenburg, Kan.
BRAWSTON. — Sister Daisy Brawston died at her home five miles west of Hollenburg, Aug. 14; aged fifteen years and nine months. She was a. great sufferer for four months, but she bore it with patience without murmuring or complaining. We believe she is at rest. May the Lord bless the rest of the family and save them, is our prayer. Prayer by Bro. J. T. Morehead.
Leota Wolf.
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THE SHINING LIGHT.
An interesting paper for children. Illustrated. It should be in every family where there are children. 25 cts. a year. 10 or more copies to one address, 18 cts. a copy per year, or any part of a year at the same rates.
Address, THE SHINING LIGHT, Grand Junction, Mich.
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EVANGELIUMS POSAUNE.
A radical, anti-sectarian, German holiness journal, published semi-monthly at this office, where all business and subscription communications should be sent Subscription $1.00 per annum. Free to the poor. All matter for publication or editorial sapport should be sent direct to the editor: FRED L. HAHN, 466, 16th St., Milwaukee, Wis.
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THE TIDINGS OF HEALING.
A twelve-page monthly paper devoted to the subject of divine healing, giving instructive articles and testimonies of those who have been healed. 50 cts. a year.
Address, J. W. BYERS, 721, 16th St., Oakland, Cal.
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Paper and Envelopes.
Envelopes with mottoes and verses of scripture neatly arranged. 30 cts. per hands.
Writing Paper in Tablets, containing one hundred sheets with various designs of scriptural headings. 30 cts.
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Mottoes.
Size 11×14 inches. Scriptural mottoes and verses, printed on colored paper, in Ja Ge type. Can be read at a distance of fifty to one hundred feet. Suitable for posting in public places, offices, hotels. etc. By mail 20 cts. per doz.
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BOOKS.
Holiness Bible Subjects.
By H. C. Wickersham. 400 pages. Cloth $1.00. A very valuable took with arrangement of Scriptures on one hundred subjects also contains over 50 pages of concordance, tables. Bible verses.
Divine Healing of Soul and Body.
By E. E. Byrum. 218 pages. Cloth. 75 cts. Paper cover. 25 cents.
Part I teaches the way of salvation, and how to get saved. Part II gives Bible teaching on the healing of the body. Part III consists of testimonies from those who have been healed in these last days. In English and German.
Biblical Trace of the Church.
By W. G. Schell. Paper cover 35 cts. Cloth 75 cts. Tracing the church in prophecy from her birth to the end of time. It shows that the prophets have foretold the greatest Trials and Triumphs of the Church in the whole Christian Era, and describes the age in which we now live.
The Secret of Salvation:
How to Get It and How to Keep It.
By E E. Byrum. Over 400 pages — Illustrated — 109 chapters which will instruct a sinner how to get saved; the Christian to keep saved, and enjoy the blessings of God; the sick and addicted how to get healed and enjoy health, and those who are round or possessed of the devil to find deliverance Paper cover 35 cts., Cloth 75 cts.
Send for Catalogue of Books, Tracts, Papers, Etc.
Special terms to agents.
Gospel Trumpet Pub. Co., Grand Junction, Mich.
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Divine Healing.
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To Whom Given Now.
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As the commission is given to believers to go forth and declare the whole counsel of God, as the Word is presented in all its purity, with all boldness, power, and authority sent down from heaven, the people believe; although many will oppose who are filled with false doctrines and the spirit of the enemy of souls; nevertheless the honest-hearted people love the truth when it is presented in the demonstration of the Spirit of God.
But now, to whom are these promises given? and who can enjoy the privileges of the gospel and the blessings of divine healing at the present time? The word of God answers this very plainly. It says they shall follow “them that believe.” It was so in the time of Christ. Those who were willing to forsake all and follow and believe him with all their heart received a benefit. They who came to him in faith believing for the healing of their bodies were “healed everyone.” They who came to his apostles the same faith were healed everyone. They who come to the Lord in these days, after hearing the word of God preached by his true servants, and come with the same earnestness and faith as did the people in olden times, will be “healed everyone.”
People fail to get these blessings from the Lord often because they are too much unconcerned about the matter. They can readily believe that God for gives all their sins, but with many it is difficult for them to reach the point where they can readily believe that he will heal all their diseases. But when we come to God in perfect obedience to his word, with all confidence believing that what he says is true, it is no difficult matter for us to take him for our physician, any more than it is for us to take him as our Savior from sin. As David says in speaking of the Lord, ‘‘Who forgiveth all thine iniquities, who healeth all thy diseases.” It does not take any greater effort, nor any more faith to believe for the healing of the body than it does for the removal of sin.
There is just as much reason in a person going to a priest and paying out so much money every week or two in order to have his sins forgiven, as to go to a doctor and pay out so much money each week for medicine to cure us of our diseases, when the Lord has promised to do all this. The priest cannot remove our sins by divine power, neither can the doctor remove our diseases by divine power. If we come to a man of God, who is fully saved and apt to teach, he may instruct us and help us to reach the point where we can make our peace with God. He can also give us instructions and help us to reach the point where we can receive the healing of our body. But it is a blessed thing for us to know that Jesus has power to sweep away all our transgressions and all our diseases; and if no one is within a thousand miles of us, we can call upon him and receive answer to our prayers for both soul and body.
From “The Secret of Salvation.”
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THE CONTRAST.
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Containing many things for the professing world to ponder over.
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Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the Lord.” — Jer. 23:1. “And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.” — 1 Cor. 2:3, 4.
The world of professors says, “Get all the popularity you can by whatsoever method you may; increase your worldly fame; gain a wide notoriety for oratory, but especially for devotedness to your denomination and its particular doctrines, even if you have to sacrifice every principle of love to Christ and your fellow man. No matter what the cost; be popular, and make your sect as much so as possible.”
To do this, one must ignore the fact that Jesus stopped with Lazarus, Martha, and Mary, when he went to Bethany (John 11:23-28; 12:1-3), and that the Word says, “He that committeth sin is of the devil. Whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” — 1 John 3:8, 10. “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. * * * When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar and the father of it.” — John 8: 44. Acts 16:23, 24; 28:22.
Popular Christianity encourages worldly conformity (Rom. 12:2), balls, picnics, ungodly parties and sect frolics, such as toe parties, donkey socials, shadow festivals, sacred concerts, introducing grab-bags, lying social games, kissing bees, weighing circles, gambling devices in the shape of ring cakes, raffles, voting for the handsomest or most popular man or woman, euchre parties, private theatricals, wine suppers. All these permit — nay more, encourage the wearing of worldly apparel, and fashionable attire, feathers, and flowers. 1 Tim. 2:9, 10. 1 Peter 3:3.
Nothing pleases the devil so much as this. It keeps the poor from the meetinghouse, and prevents them from hearing even what little Bible there is read or preached there. And as to a popular preacher teaching the truth to a fashionable congregation, there need be no fear; for he would lose his job at once should he even presume to do so. The devil has millions of professors working for him to day; they are laboring for wages, but I never saw one that was anxious for their final pay-day to come around. Rom. 6: 23. The rank and file of the so-called Christian ministry of to-day, do not have the courage of their own convictions, and are too cowardly to do the devil’s kingdom much harm, and he considers that the next thing to his service.
When the flood of opposition pours in from other denominations it requires about all the time of the average preacher to keep his head above water and see that the other fellow does not succeed in obtaining more accessions than he, or capture some of his congregation. So, there is not much left to encourage his followers to prepare for eternity, by meeting the conditions in Luke 13:5, and thereby obtain salvation. If we are to believe history, the straight Bible truth has always been opposed by those who have only a profession. Then they begin to see themselves as God does, and they know that all true children of God among them will see at once that their sect is not the church of God. Although they are in the minority, they cannot afford to lose them, for with that few goes what spirituality remains. Jer. 50:9-17.
A real man-pleasing discourse is what the devil delights in’; he will occupy a front seat every time and join in the amens. There is a great difference between Christianity and sectarianism, between a real godly life and a make-believe; one directs to heaven, while the other leads to hell. Rom. 1:29. 2 Cor. 12:20.
History repeats itself. Men have always tried to outwit the devil in their own strength, by making a profession of Christianity, never remembering that he has had nearly 6000 years experience. He is always pleased when justice, salvation, holiness, perfect love, sanctification, etc., are left to take care of themselves, and sectarianism is taught, or professors begin to wrangle over the question whether they will be baptized or have a little water sprinkled on their heads. It makes but little difference to Satan either way, for without a godly, holy life, he will get them anyhow. Heb. 12:14.
Jesus taught (John 17:11, 21-23) that his people are one. Sectism does not pay any attention to such scripture, only to say, “We are one in the essentials.” To say this implies that the word of God contains non-essentials, which is a rank falsehood; and we hereby challenge any person or persons to show us one such within the lids of the Bible.
Sects are multiplying rapidly, which is only another evidence that they are getting farther and farther from God. Every now and then some preacher will see where sectism is drifting to; and we hear a lamentation something like the following: “Many churches are degenerating into mere money-making machines, fashionable clubs or bureaus of entertainment; and there is a danger that the divine life is being allowed to die out.’’ — Dr. Cartwright, Brooklyn, N.Y.
So long as sects continue to manufacture preachers (2 Tim. 4:3), just so long the truth Will be stifled, and true wisdom lie buried beneath the rubbish of fraud, deception, delusion, and fanaticism. But wherever the present truth is preached it tears away the hideous mask of error, and lets in the light of life and true holiness. Were one to enter a dark room infected with vermin, he has but to scratch a match to see a few of them, a lighted lamp would reveal more, turn on an electric light and the power of observation is increased. The proper thing to do would be to throw open the windows and doors in broad daylight and clean them out.
With many it is not a question of a call from the court of heaven, but, “What theological seminary did you attend? To what conference, synod, association, etc., do you belong? Have you credentials?”
Then the less a minister says about Jesus and his teaching, the better the average congregation is suited. It would bring before them his poverty; for instance, his ride into Jerusalem on a borrowed animal, Luke 19:33, 34; his not having a roof of his own, John 7:53 with 8:1, 2; and the fact that he was buried in a borrowed sepulcher. Matt. 27:57-60. There is a certain unpleasantness connected with such scripture (Phil. 2:7) in reference (to his reputation.
His acts and manner of conduct in general became so offensive to the religious pretenders, and hypocrites of the day, that they killed him. We have a curiosity to know how he would be received to-day, were he to walk into one of the fashionable churches in his common attire; or arrive during a sect frolic in one of them, and proceed to overturn the tables of its speculators and money-changers.
The very idea of taking Jesus for an example seems ridiculous to the average professor; and to preach and practice it would deprive a large majority of the salaried ministers of the land of a means of support. Better this than as Bishop Foster puts it, — “Millions of souls be swept into hell on account of a feeble, truckling, time-serving, hireling ministry, without faith and holy power.” (See tract, Babylon is Fallen.)
It is invariably the custom with such never to teach upon such subjects as usury and restitution, on account of the bankers, curbstone workers, lawyers, and dishonest merchants belonging to their congregations. They dare not offend such. Should they do so there would be a perceptible shrinkage in their salary at once. The old adage comes to their rescue; namely, “Let every man worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience,” and the devil usually does the dictating.
While these same church members often help to support saloons, bawdyhouses, dives, and gambling dens, in times of financial embarrassment these places of vice and lawlessness are looked to for aid in liquidating their indebtedness; these ill-gotten gains are used to furnish and ornament these palaces of formality, to the exclusion of the poor, the contrast being so great between their lowly attire and the surroundings when they go there, that they feel out of place. Thus, silently they are compelled to withdraw to some humble mission around the corner in a back street, or be entirely barred the privilege of divine worship; while the salaried, well-fed, aristocratic preachers congregate to discuss the all-important subject, — How SHALL WE REACH THE MASSES?
G. B. COLLINS.
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TESTIMONIES.
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LAMAR, S. C.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: I do thank and praise the Lord for his wonderful salvation that saves and keeps my soul filled with his glory and freedom just now. Praise the Lord for the privilege of being a member in the church of the true and living God. I will also testify to the glory of God concerning his wonderful healing power. About two weeks ago the dear Lord suffered me to be afflicted with a severe case of sore eyes, of which I suffered a little over a week. Even little pieces appearing to be the under-lining skin of my upper eyelids would peel out. People would prescribe remedy after remedy and would tell me if I did not doctor my eyes, I would lose my sight; but, praise God forever more, I just stood firm on his word and trusted in his precious promises, which are sure. I talked to the dear Lord from time to time about my eyes, and on last Monday morning, after suffering severely the night before, he laid his precious hand of healing on my eyes and healed me all at once, for which I give him all the praise and honor and glory. All of God’s saints, pray earnestly that the dear Lord will heal my little babe that is very sick teething: also, for my wife that she may be fully saved by God’s plan, and be humble and obedient to all his precious word. Pray for me that I may keep humble at the feet of Jesus and know clearly my place in the body and do always those things that please the Lord. Your saved brother,
ASHFORD NEWELL.
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WOOSTER, OHIO.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: I believe it will be to the glory of God to write a few lines and tell what the Lord is doing for me. He keeps me day by day. I can say that I am dead to sin. I have no pleasure in worldly things; my affections are above. Jesus is very precious to me: he is all and in all. He is my physician. Praise his name! I have not taken one drop of medicine for over two years. When I am sick or in pain, he heals me. I put all my trust in him, praise his name for he is good. My husband also praises the Lord much for what he has done for him, although he is unable to walk or even take a step without holding to a chair; then cannot straighten his body or lie down. But he looks forward to the time when he will be made every whit whole. He asks an interest in your prayers that his eyesight be restored so that he can see to read God’s word. Also, pray that God may send some of his messengers here with a tabernacle, to preach the gospel in all its purity, and that the people be brought out of darkness into the glorious light and liberty of full and free salvation, and sinners be converted and the sick be healed. There are from six to seven thousand inhabitants in this place, and truly a great and good work ought and must be done here. May the Lord have mercy on this people, is our prayer. Yours in the love of Jesus,
DR. AND C. BARTMAN.
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AURORA, MO.
DEAR TRUMPET READERS: I feel led of the Lord to write my testimony to his glory. I am praising God this morning for salvation and for his mercies toward us. I know he is a present help in time of trouble. Our little eight-year-old girl was taken with the typhoid fever and lay for some time very low. We obeyed James 5:14, 15 and she got better. We still held on to the Lord for her healing, but for some cause she got worse than ever. One evening she seemingly was sinking very fast; I had almost lost hopes, though I knew God was able to raise her up. I trusted her in his hands, he knew best. My husband and I and our little children bowed around her bedside and prayed earnestly for God to heal her, and he did. Praise his name forever! It was only a trial of our faith. She had gotten so low that she could not turn herself in bed, nor sit alone, but God in mercy raised her up. She was up about two weeks and then took a relapse. That was a stronger trial than before; but we still trusted in God for her healing and he raised her up again. Now she is well and hearty.
Dear ones, pray for me and my family, that we may sink deeper down in his sweet will and obey him in all things. My dear husband has backslidden since our little girl’s healing. Dear ones pray earnestly for God to bring him back again. We are here in this wicked place where it is filled up with sectism and no good meetings. If any of God’s true ministers feel led to come to this place and hold a meeting, I would be glad for them to come, especially one that has a tabernacle. God’s cause has been weakened here at this place by false teachers coming as angels of light. But God can work and none can hinder. I would be so glad to meet with some of God’s true children. Yours in the one body,
MAGGIE BLACK.
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“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” — 1 Cor. 13:13.
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Advancement.
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The Indirect Voice of Scripture.
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SINCE our articles in the advancement column on matters of conscience, we have received letters from dear brethren in different parts, from which we gather that some dear ones are being inclined to stretch the vail of conscience scruples far enough to cover some real evils. Let us be careful, brethren.
There is a class of evils which, though not named in the Bible, are nevertheless indirectly condemned by the word of God. Evils which have sprung into existence since the Bible was written, are not named out in the Bible, hence such evils can only be shown up, by comparing the spirit of the evils with the spirit of apostolic Christianity as set forth in the Bible.
In this way these things will be seen in their clear light; and we would say they are indirectly condemned by the word of God,
Suppose I was going to preach against some modern secret society; say for instance, the Free Masons. How am I going to prove it unscriptural? It is not named out in the Bible. I must compare its features with the teachings of the Bible, and in this way Free Masonry is proved to be unscriptural. In this manner we are compelled to oppose all evils of modern origin.
One brother writes us, asking if the wearing of neckties is not a matter of conscience. No, beloved brethren, it is not. The necktie is a mere adornment and not a necessary article of dress; and it is hence a superfluity, and is condemned in Jas. 1:21 — “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.”
We have heard some dear brethren, who are employed in public work in the cities, say they are required to wear a necktie, and if they lay it aside they are liable to lose their position. Under such circumstances I would do as follows: I would ask the Lord to stand by me, and help me to hold my position, if it were truly his will that I abide in it; and then I would solemnly vow to stand upon his word at all hazards. I would then lay aside my necktie, and continue my work as before. If my employer spoke to me about it, I would explain to him that I had laid it aside because I believed it contrary to the teachings of the Bible to wear it. If I felt in any degree mortified while making the explanation, I would conclude I needed an advancement along the line of humility. If my employer still insisted upon my wearing a tie, I would put on a high vest. He could not surely be inconsistent enough to require you to wear a tie when the cut of your vest would not allow it. Then, if I should lose my position, I would think it was not the Lord’s will for me to hold it any longer, and would inquire what he would have me to do.
Another asks if the use of tea and coffee is not a matter of conscience. We might ask with almost equal propriety whether the use of tobacco was not a matter of conscience. Coffee and tea are narcotic poisons, and greatly injure the health of our bodies. Therefore, as the Bible requires us to care for. our bodies as the temples of God (1 Cor. 3:16,17.), it is wrong to use them.
The Bible also teaches us that God holds us accountable for the way we spend our money. From this standpoint also, it would not only be wrong to poison our bodies by the use of tea and coffee, but as it is entirely unnecessary to’ our health, and contains no nutriments whatever, it is wrong even to spend our money for it.
WM. G. SCHELL.
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“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” — 1 Cor. 10:31.