17 May 1894, Volume 14, Number 20.
How Readest Thou? Luke 10:26.
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It is one thing to read the Bible through,
And another to read, to learn, and do;
It is one thing to read it with delight,
And quite another to read it right.
Some read it as their duty, once a week,
But no instruction from the Bible seek;
Whilst others read it with but little care,
With no regard to how they read, or where!
Some read it as a history, to know
How people lived three thousand years ago.
Some read to bring themselves into repute,
By showing others how they can dispute;
Whilst others read because their neighbors do,
To see how long ’twill take to read it through.
Some read it for the wonders that are there,
How David killed a lion and a bear;
Whilst others read, or rather in it look.
Because perhaps they have no other book.
Some read the blessed Book, they don’t know why,
It somehow happens in the way to lie;
Whilst others read it with uncommon care,
But all to find some contradiction there!
Some read to prove a pre-adopted creed —
Thus understand but little what they read,
For every passage in the book they bend,
To make it suit that all-important end.
Some people read, as I have often thought,
To teach the Book, instead of being taught;
And some there are who read it out of spite,
But few there are, I fear, who read it right.
—Selected.
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FALSE DOCTRINES OF ANTIORDINANCE-ISM.
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THE love of the truth and veneration for the sacred volume, hold me responsible to blow a blast of warning, and to sound an alarm in the holy mountain against the false claims and doctrines of antiordinance- ism by which the truth of the gospel is set aside and souls are deceived, and a spirit of disobedience which is antichrist comes in and takes the place of that meek and quiet Spirit of Jesus Christ, which is loyal and true to every mandate of heaven. “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.” About the first apology by the antiordinance teachers for the non-observance of the New Testament ordinances that I ever heard, was, that they “are non-essential,” “a work of supererogation.” This claim was a very naked falsehood, and never has been clothed in a theological gown. Such an ideal could only accompany a religion proceeding from fallen man, and in the darkest age of the world’s history since Moses, under the beastly reign of the papcay. but such a theory never has, and never will accompany the salvation that comes from God only, which embraces and commands obedience to every good work. See Heb. 13:21; Phil. 2:12, 13; Eph. 2:10; 1 Tim. 5:10; 2 Tim. 2:21; 2 Cor. 9:8; Eph. 5:9; 2 Thess. 2:17; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17. Then it follows that any work that is good cannot be “non-essential,” “supererogation;” and if a work is not good it must be bad. Read Matt. 12:30-35; 1 John 3:7-10. But to teach that Jesus Christ or his apostles taught or commanded anything that was non- essential, is nothing less than blasphemy against the very Christ of the Bible and the council of heaven.
But this blasphemous and false claim of “non-essentialism” has been almost abandoned by its modern venders. But a willful heretic seldom retracts, and a false doctrine seldom goes single; so others must be hatched to help it through, and if possible seek shelter under some scripture wrested to work destruction. And this was practically accomplished when Eph. 2:15; Col. 2:14; and Heb. 9:10 were so wrested, endeavoring to include the ordinances of the New Testament.
But these texts and contexts plainly teach that these were the ordinances of the law, and the antiordinance teachers were compelled to acknowledge this. Therefore this obvious truth drove them into taking the unscrupulous position that baptism, the Lord’s supper, feetwashing, etc., were law ordinances.
Now we appeal to the law for precept, commandment or example. Is there the least shadow of resemblance between any of the ordinances of law, and those of the gospel? There is positively no identity between them. I challenge the whole of the antiordinance fraternity to produce the slightest evidence of similarity. They affirm there were various immersions in law, and as proof, Heb. 9:10 is referred to. This we also affirm. But every ordinance, washing, bathing and dipping, of the law, is specified in the law, but nothing there like New Testament baptism. It is a common thing for them to affirm that John’s baptism was “law baptism,” while none of the New Testament writers ever ventured to call it law baptism.
I have frequently called upon these would be teachers of the law to point to a single ordinance, or baptism in the whole law, that had the least resemblance to John’s baptism, and they have not produced it yet. Had John’s baptism been law baptism it would have been commanded in the law and could be found there, and it would have been practiced by the priests in Jerusalem, according to the letter of the law.
But to the contrary, “the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.” Luke 3:2. Then went out to him Jerusalem and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan; and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. Matt. 3:5, 6. There was a man sent from God whose name was John. Jno. 1:6. Then God sent him. And John said, He that sent me to baptize with [Greek EN, in] water said unto me, etc. Jno. 1:33. And Mark in recording the baptism and preaching of John, declares it to be “the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ.” Mark 1. And Jesus said, the law and the prophets were until John; since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. Luke 16:16. Hence “to make ready a people prepared unto the Lord.” Luke 1:17. Therefore John’s work was not under the ministration of the law, nor was it an appendage to that law, but the beginning of the gospel of Christ, “preparing a people for the Lord,” hence a part of the reformation. Therefore it was not law baptism — impossible. But John’s commission stopped with John. Therefore to perpetuate this ordinance Christ gave commandment concerning it (Matt. 28: 19; Mark 16:16) to his disciples.
And the Lord’s supper. Where in Moses’ law do they find any such an ordinance? They find the passover supper in the law. See Ex. 12:1-11. This meal was composed of a roasted lamb, unleavened bread, with bitter herbs. This was called the Lord’s passover; was to be observed once a year. This was observed by Christ and his disciples on the night of his betrayal. Luke 22:7-18; Matt. 26:17-21. Now read Luke 22:19, 20. We will give the reader the benefit of the Emphatic Diaglott on these two verses, as follows:
“And taking a loaf and having given thanks he brake it, and gave to them, saying, “This is that body of mine which is given for you: do this in my remembrance.” “In like manner also the cup, after the supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, that in your behalf is being poured out.” “In like mariner also the cup after the supper.”
This language shows that the loaf as well as the cup was served after the supper; therefore was not included in the passover supper. An antiordinance teacher told me the loaf and cup was nothing else but the passover supper. But Luke does not agree with him, for he says the loaf and cup was after the supper, and Luke tells us he “had a perfect understanding of all things from the very first.” Luke 1:3, 4. Also Paul corobborates Luke’s testimony. We read from the Emphatic Diaglott, 1 Cor. 11:23-25:
“For I received from the Lord, what also I delivered to you, that the Lord, on the night in which he was delivered up, took a loaf, and having given thanks, broke it and said, This is that body of mine which is broken on your behalf; this do you for my remembrance. In like manner also the cup, after the supper, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood, this do you as oft as ye may drink for my remembrance.”
Luke and Paul both say “This cup is the new covenant in my blood.” Now to say this was an old covenant ordinance is to flatly contradict Luke and Paul, and that is not all; if we admit that Paul and Luke record the truth, then Jesus Christ himself is contradicted by the anti, who is therefore an antichrist. Now in the pass- over meal, the lamb was the type of Christ our passover, who is sacrificed for us. 1 Cor. 5:7. But in this New Testament ordinance Jesus says of the loaf, “This is that body of mine;” and of the cup, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood.” This itself distinguishes the new covenant ordinance of the loaf and cup, from the passover meal. This is composed of the loaf and the cup; but the passover meal is composed of the lamb, unleavened bread, and bitter herbs In the passover, nothing but the lamb represented the body of Christ which was to be sacrificed; but in the new covenant ordinance the loaf represents his body, which is broken for us, and the cup his blood that is poured out in our behalf. The passover was to be observed once a year; and the loaf and cup as oft as it is done for his remembrance. The passover was commanded through Moses; and the loaf and cup was commanded through Jesus Christ. “Hear ye him.” The passover was instituted in B. C. 1491; the loaf and cup in A. D. 33. The passover was a part of the old covenant; the loaf and cup of the new covenant. The passover was to be eaten in each family (unless the families were small, then two or more families could combine); the loaf and cup in the congregation of believers. See 1 Cor. 11:33.
But why multiply these evidences since the antiordinance teachers have never produced a single point of evidence in the law, nor yet in the gospel, showing that these ordinances or anything similar to them were ever practiced or commanded in the law? But the practice of these ordinances is recorded many years after the death of Christ. See Acts 13:8; 19:1-7; 20:7. So to account for this and to cover up the previous falsehoods, another unscrupulous falsehood is produced; viz., that the law was not abolished until 64 A. D. by the “STUMBLING STONE,” and 70 A. D. by the “ROYAL PRIEST.” One is as false as the other. We shall prove by the word of God that Christ’s death is the exact date of reckoning for the abrogation of the law, and the ratifying of the new covenant; and whatsoever was not abolished at that time is in force to day. Eph. 2:15 — “Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances.” And Col. 2:14 — “Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross.” “Abolished in his flesh,” “nailing it to his cross;” these are identical. Therefore when Christ’s flesh was nailed to the cross he abolished the law of commandments contained in ordinances; and the “law of commandments contained in ordinances” and “the hand writing of ordinances” mean the same thing, and we have no evidence of any of the New Testament ordinances bring written down at that time, therefore were not nailed to his cross, not blotted out, not abolished. The apostle makes Col. 2:14 still plainer in the next verse by saying, “and having spoiled principalities and powers [Emphatic — Having stripped off the governments and the authorities], he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” This evidently relates to his crucifixion and resurrection, by which he nailed the law to the cross, stripping off the governments and authorities, and triumphing over them in it. Compare this with Heb. 10:1-10, in which the two wills or covenants are discussed. And V. 9 says, He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. We ask what “established the second?” Certainly it was that which made the last will or testament of force. This was Christ’s death. See Heb. 9:14-18. “For a testament is of force after men are dead.” Here Paul was speaking of “ Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God.” “And for this cause he is the mediator of the New Testament [covenant] that by means of death, for the redemption.” etc. “Wherefore my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead; that we should bring forth fruit unto God.” Read Rom. 7:1-4. Here the marriage law is dissolved, and abolished by the death of one of the two involved in the marriage union. “And if Christ died for all, then are all dead;’’ Therefore the subjects of the law became dead to the law by the body of Christ (his death) so they could be married to another, even him who is raised from the dead, and bring forth gospel fruit. The fruits of this marriage to the resurrected one was soon manifest; for about three thousand souls were added to the Lord in one day, Acts 2:41, only about fifty days after Christ’s death.
Now if Moses’ law had not been annulled at the cross, but was in force until 64 or 70 A. D. then all the Jews that embraced Christ and were thus united to him (see Rom. 7:4; Eph. 5:22-32), and became bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh (“For we are members of his body, of his flesh and of his bones”) were spiritual adulterers, and unlawfully wedded; and Christ himself would be equally guilty. This is a true and and inevitable conclusion and deduction of the anti-ordinance theology. But praise the Lord, the law expired at the cross, and “since the law” Christ was made high priest by the word of the oath. See Heb. 7:21, 28. And it was “by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place.” Heb. 9:12. After he had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his foot-stool. Heb. 10:13. This does not look much like Christ had to nail the law to his cross in 64 or 70 A. D. But to the contrary he abolished the law in his flesh, by his death.
The last record we have in the New Testament of Christ’s cross was at a place called Golgotha; and we cannot think for a moment that he took it to heaven with him and there nailed the law to it in 64 or 70, nor that he came back to this world in 64 or 70 and nailed the law to it. While the New Testament all points to Christ’s death as the exact date when he abrogated the law and ratified the new covenant, and since that time he has officiated as high priest over the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the new covenant church, in which baptism, Acts 2:38, 41; 8:12, 38; 10:47; 19:5; the Lord supper, Luke 22:19, 20; Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 11th chapter; and feetwashing, Jno. 13th chap., 1 Tim. 5:10, were commanded and practiced. Therefore they are not Old Testament ordinances; were never abolished at the cross; are very essential in obedience in the new covenant; and are observed by those who believe and obey the truth. Yours in truth in the one body.
G. L. Cole.
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THY TESTIMONIES ARE WONDERFUL.
Psa. 119:129.
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Pittsburg, Pa.
Dear Saints Abroad: The “Floating Bethel” is gone from Pittsburg, but I praise God for salvation, and am rejoicing in the hope set before me which I have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast. I praise God for the school of the prophets which we have had on the boat all winter. Many souls have been saved and much good seed sown. I praise God for the precious seasons enjoyed there. May God keep us all striving together for the faith of the gospel, of one mind and in one Spirit. Amen.
A. B. Gildersleeve.
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LaGro, Ind.
To the Dear Saints, Greeting: I feel led of the Lord, to write my testimony for the first time. Last August at the Beaver Dam camp meeting the Lord saved me out of sectism and gave me victory over the beast, and praise the Lord, I am walking in the evening light, saved and sanctified by a second work of grace in my heart. I was a preacher in Babylon, but bless the Lord, I can now see how far I was from the true light. I do praise the Lord for light, and for a thorough renovating and cleansing from all sin. Pray for me that I may be kept low down at his feet, always learning of the Lord, and ready to answer any call he has for me in this world, and that the Holy Ghost may interpret the word to my soul, that God’s name may be glorified in me and that many souls may be saved in Jesus. Many have been healed of various diseases and afflictions. Your brother in Christ.
T. D. Ehrhart.
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Banister, Mich.
To all of The Saints, Greeting: Praise the Lord for this wonderful salvation that keeps us saved to the uttermost. The Lord has wonderfully blessed me since I left the sects. Oh if the dear ones in the bondage of sectism would only see the light, then step out, how wonderfully the Lord would bless them. The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and one soul. Take it home to your hearts; how can you be of one heart in the sects differing with the other? Be ye not unequally yoked with unbelievers; what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteonsuess? and what communion hath light with darkness? Wherefore come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing and I will receive you. 2 Cor. 6:14-17. Well praise the Lord, I am glad I was willing to come out and take the narrow way. We can have no other God’s before him. Praise the Lord, I can truly say I have found it, Lord, in thee; an everlasting store of comfort, joy and bliss to me; how can I wish for more? Your saved sister, all on the altar, and washed in the blood of the Lamb,
Lottie Borden.
Page 2
THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.
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A WEEKLY HOLINESS JOURNAL.
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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.
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PUBLISHED AT GRAND JUNCTION, MICH.
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D. S. WARNER, – Editor.
E. E. BYBUM, – Office Editor.
E. E. BYBUM and S. MICHELS, – Publishers.
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TERMS, $1.00 Per Year In Advance.
Free to the poor.
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All business communications, moneys, &c. must be addressed to Gospel Trumpet, to insure credit; otherwise we will not be responsible.
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Parties desiring papers to canvass with, should notify us regularly of their address.
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* THE * SHINNING * LIGHT. *
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An interesting paper for children. Illustrated. It should be in every family where there are children. Only twenty-five cents a year. Address,
THE SHINING LIGHT,
Grand Junction, Mich.
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TRACTS AND BOOKS.
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Babylon is Fallen. What Church Should I Join? Sects. The Master’s Call. A Wonderful Deliverance. Second Work of Grace. Price 10 cents per dozen.
Small tracts of various kinds for free distribution, at 10 cents per hundred.
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Marriage and Divorce. A tract of 32 pages, giving the Inspired word of God on the subject. Price 5 cents.
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The Great Tobacco Sin. It contains 30 pages, with a neat cover. We will send these tracts to any one sending us postage at the rate of one cent for three tracts. Always state just how many you wish sent.
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Must We Sin? A conversation, giving Bible proofs that we must live free from sin, containing 48 pages. Single copy 2 cts. Per dozen. 20 cts. Per hundred. $1.50.
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Question and Answers on the Church. A tract containing four letters with many questions concerning the church, and the difference between the true church and sectism. Price, 10 cents per dozen.
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The Sabbath Tract. This tract contains 65 pages giving the word of God on the subject of the Sabbath. It overthrows Saturday keeping and proves that the first day of the week is the proper day to keep. Price 10 cts.
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“No-Sectism.” A tract bearing the above title, written by A. Sims, has been reviewed by D. S. Warner, showing the difference between sectism and the Church of the Living God. It exposes the false theories set forth by Sims. This tract contains 52 pages. For free distribution, 15 cts. per dozen: $1.00 per hundred.
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The Church of God. A tract containing 32 pages, proving what is the Church and what is not the Church of God. Price, single copy 10 cents. Per dozen 80 cents.
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What is the Soul? By D. S Warner. Or 100 scriptures proving that man possesses a spiritual and immortal element called the Soul, the Spirit, and the Inner Man, which goes to God at the death of the body. The same also proved by the early Church History. Price single copy 10 cents. Per dozen 80 cents.
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The Bible Readings. Bible readings or references on about 100subjects. Price 75 cts. each.
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Anthems from the Throne. This hook contains 148 songs. 90 with music. About all new. When sung in the spirit of God these songs will be found glorious. Manilla cover 25 cts. Cloth 40 cts. Per dozen $2.40 & $3.60.
MASONIC SALVATION. By Fred Hasted. Thin little volume treats the subject of Free Masonry from a Bible standpoint. The writer having been a Master Mason, boldly brings the hidden and mysterious things before the public in a clear light. Price, paper cover 15 cts. Cloth. 35 cts.
BIBLICAL TRACE OF THE CHURCH. By W. G. Schell. Tracing the church in prophecy from her birth to the end of time. Containing a brief history of more than 400 Protestant denominations. The author aims to show the difference between the true church and sectism, giving historical and scriptural proofs. Paper cover, 35 cts. Cloth. 75 cts. Address the Author at Anlo, Ohio. or this office.
ECHOES FROM GLORY By B. E. Warren and D. S. Warner. A second and thorough corrected editon of this new song book has just been issued. Containing 232 beautiful spiritual songs, of which the largest portion are new and fresh inspirations from heaven, both words and music. Many beautiful and touching invitation and exhortation hymns for revival meetings. It sings nearly all the doctrine of the Bible; especially the glorious themes of present truth. With primary instruction in music. Simple and concise — A practical self instructor for beginners in vocal music. Neatly bound in pasteboard, price reduced to 40 cts. Per dozen $4.00. all prepaid Address. B. E. Warren, Springfield. Ohio D. S. Warner. Sixth st., (Floating Bethel). Pittsburg, Pa. or this office.
DIVINE HEALING OF SOUL AND BODY. By E. E. Byrum. 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. 248 pages. Paper cover. 25 cts. Cloth, 75 cts.
THE BOY’S COMPANION. By E. E. Byrum. This is a neat little volume with interesting chapters to the boys, concerning the Secret Vice and other bad habits and their effects. Every boy needs advice and warning in time, and too often parents fail to give the needed advice until too late. The book is illustrated with suitable pictures which are aimed to leave a vivid impression upon the young minds and turn thorn from the downward road to a pure life. It als0 contains testimonies and experiences from those who are inmates of the states prison. Boys of every age should have one of these books to read. Price, paper cover 25 cts. Cloth binding 40 cts.
The Secret Vice.
A small illustrated tract of 16 pages with neat cover. It gives a timely warning to the boys against the evils of Self Abuse, a habit which is prevalent throughout the land. The tract is attractive, interesting, and points out certain evils against which boys of every age need to have warning in time. Price, doz. 10 cts. 100, 40 cts. 1000, $3.00.
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LIST OF MONEY LETTERS NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED.
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Frank Richards. J. J. Young, Isaiah Pleasant, G. W. Folosom, Elizabeth Bowers, Rachel Bollinger, D. P. Kimmel, Mrs. W. C. Allen, T. Hicks, Ethel Esterbrook, Michael Stover Jr., Geo. Dansberger, J. K, Peterman, Anna R. Richardson, Geo. H. Darby, W. H. Richart, Jho. E. Bear, James Worbois, C. A. Sunderland.
Requests for Prayer.
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Pray for E. Voight, who is suffering with sore eyes.
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Pray May 29, that I may be healed of lung and kidney trouble, and be wholly sanctified. Your sister,
R. A. Songer.
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Pray May 20, for my son who has escaped from the asylum, that his mind may be restored.
Mary A. Lewis.
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Pray for me and my husband that we may be sanctified, also for the healing of my eye which has been injured by accident. Your sister in Christ,
Mamie Martin.
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Pray for my daughter Blanche who is suffering terribly from the effects of measles, and is badly crippled.
Henrietta Mills.
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Leadville, Colo., May 5, 1894.
Dear Saints and Readers of the Trumpet: I ask your prayers for the healing of my leg which I had the misfortune to get run over by the cars, and the doctor took it off twice and it seems as though it will almost kill me if I do not get present relief. I have tried to get victory over the pain and the Lord has helped me wonderfully, but it is so painful. Now when you read this do not forget to offer up a special prayer for me, and that the way may be provided for my family while I am unable to be up. If any one wishes to write to me, address Leadville, Colo. Your brother in Christ,
M. T. Cruzan.
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Calls for Meeting.
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We are in the dark and would be glad to have a minister come here and preach the true word of God.
J. J. Young,
Jennings, Decatur Co., Kan.
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Will one or two of God’s true ministers come here and hold a tabernacle meeting? I am badly afflicted in my arms and desire to be healed, also pray that I may receive the Holy Ghost. Your sister,
Nellie Graham,
Cross, Okla.
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MEETINGS.
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The saints at West Liberty, Ohio are making arrangements for camp meeting about Aug. the 3d the Lord willing. Bro. J. N. Howard is desired to be here and whoever the Lord may be pleased to send. Address L. C. Mast or S. A. Yoder, West Liberty, O.
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Tekonsha, Mich., April 30, 1894.
There will be a two days meeting or longer if the Lord wills; held by the church south west of Tekonsha, Mich. Commencing Friday evening, May 18, at which time the ordinances of the Lord’s house will be observed, to which all that can come are cordially invited.
C. Eldridge.
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A CALL IN INDIANAPOLIS.
Bro. G. M. Decker has been laboring most of the winter in Indianapolis, Ind. with some success, and is very anxious to have some one more fully qualified come and assist him, in setting forth the true church to the converts, administer baptism, etc. Cannot Bro. J. Cole, and Co., or Bro. Kilpatrick, and Co. call there? Please be sure and go to the brother’s help. Address G. M. Decker, Corner New York and Ala. Sts., Indianapolis, Ind.
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NOTICES.
Burkett; Ind., May 6, 1894.
There will be a tabernacle meeting held by the saints of God, in or near the town of Castine, O., commencing May 29th to continue as long as the Lord wills. Ministers, Bro’s S. L. Speck, W. G. Schell and B. E. Warren.
There will be also a tabernacle meeting in Marion Co., O., in the neighborhood of Bio’s John Clements and John Flueller commencing July 20, or Aug. 1st. Further notice will be given of the exact date of commencement.
S. L. Speck.
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EDITORIAL.
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Get ready for the camp-meeting, June 14-25.
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Read Bro. Leininger’s article on fourth page, on “Little Things.”
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Pray much for the spread of the pure Gospel, and the work of the Lord everywhere.
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Bro. Alex. Dittmore, Uniontown, Pa. sends an earnest request for some true minister of God to come there at once and help in the gospel work.
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Do you ever forget the earnest requests for prayer, and calls for the Gospel? Remember it takes prayer to move the hand of God, and His ears are always open to hear the prayers of the righteous.
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The cloth books of “Divine Healing of Soul and Body,” German edition, are now ready. It is a very neat, well printed volume, price fifty cents. Paper edition twenty-five cents. We also have a number of German tracts.
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We were requested by some of the saints of Chicago to say to those passing through that city to the June camp meeting, and wishing to stop for a while will find a welcome at the Tomes of Bro’s Chas. Tracy 103-37th St., J. B. Pitts, 5010 Atlantic St., Aaron Simons, 236-66th St., Harvey Garrison, 6405 Carpenter St.
C. Orr.
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As soon as all arrangements are completed concerning reduced rates for camp-meeting, twenty thousand circulars and handbills will be printed ready to send out everywhere for distribution, announcing the meeting, with instructions about how to obtain the reduced rates, and other information concerning the meeting. If you do not fully understand regarding the same, write to us at once, enclosing a stamp, and we will forward you circulars giving the needed information.
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In COMING to the camp-meeting you will have to pay full fare. And wherever you buy a ticket be sure and have the agent give you a certificate stating that it is for the campmeeting, and bring the certificate with you, and when presented you can purchase a ticket to return for one-third fare. No one can get reduced rates unless they have one of the certificates from the ticket agent. The railroad companies will begin the sale of tickets June eleventh, three days before the meeting begins and continue the sale three days after it begins, or until June seventeenth. Persons starting after the 17th or before the nth will not be able to obtain rates.
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THE GENERAL CAMP OF THE SAINTS.
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Dearly beloved in the fellowship of the Spirit and the love of the truth, everywhere spread abroad, greeting.
This is the thing the Spirit would speak unto you. Whoever among you that possibly can come to the June camp meeting at this place, let not Satan or anything hinder you. The ministers and workers all as far as possible should meet in this general convocation.
First, because it being early in the camp and grove meeting season, the numerous meetings desired over the land can there be arranged in systematic order, forming continuous lines so as to economize both time and means in going from one to another. All the meetings of every kind desired during the summer, send in your calls. And any of the beloved messengers who cannot come, please write to the meeting and inform us where the Lord seems to indicate your summer’s work, then we can better know what meetings you may be expected in the providence of God to attend.
But the most important reason why all the workers who possibly can, should assemble at this annual feast, is for a general advancement in all the depths and heights, and length and breadth of the experience, graces, fruits and gifts of divine holiness. For a mighty increase of divine power and heavenly wisdom; for a far more full and complete appropriation of the divine glory and qualifications for usefulness in the hands of God. Most of all for fresh baptisms of the love of God. And if any person, through past education be otherwise minded than that of the pure truth as it is in Christ Jesus, come up to this feast in meekness and the Lord will reveal even this unto you, so that the present truth may indeed be fulfilled in the most perfect harmony in every word and act among the redeemed remnant.
Beloved, in this camp meeting ministers cannot hope to have all their traveling expenses paid, as is usually the case. Therefore we wish to humbly beseech the saints everywhere to assist with your means — the Lord’s — those faithful brethren and sisters who are among you, whose hearts the Lord is drawing to come to this meeting. Do this for Jesus’ sake, and your own soul shall be watered. Come and bring them along if the Lord wills, if not, the heavenly dews of the camp will fall upon your hearts at home if you do your duty in sending them. To all whose hearts are being stirred to come, have faith in God and he will bring it to pass. Bro. Byrum has been to Chicago to consult the railroad associations and we now have fair prospects of obtaining reduced rates from about all points in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio; also Buffalo, Pittsburg, St. Louis, and intervening points. Will be able to let you know the particulars soon.
Would further suggest that if God convicts any of the saints that you should help any of God’s ministers not at your place, send it to them or to us and we will forward. Sometimes the brethren have labored among you, and you were sorry you could not help them. Now would be a good time to pay the Lord back dues by sending to his ministers help that they may come to the feast. Amen.
Finally brethren and sisters, all pray earnestly for the great blessings of God upon the meeting. Amen.
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MORMONISM.
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THE Lord saith, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” — Matt. 24:35. While John was on Patmos, the Lord said unto him, “I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues written in this book: and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” — Rev. 22:18, 19. Again the command, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it.” — Deut. 4:2. Also “Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” — Prov. 30:6. Also in connection with the above scripture Paul said to Timothy, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” — 2 Tim. 3:16.
But although these truths appear so plain in God’s word, and stand out as distinctly as the “hand writing on the wall,” this “seer and prophet,” who laid the foundation of this” Latter Day Saintry,’’ section 19:1 and whose memory is sacred to all who bow at that shrine at the present day, “revised, and corrected, the Old and New Testaments, restoring, adding much that had been lost from the text, and removing (taking away) from the text many things of a hurtful tendency.” V. OF W. page 148. Truly ye “Latter Day Saints,” your “seer and prophet” will receive addition to the “plagues written in the book,” and have his part taken away “out of the holy city,” and shall be “found a liar,” when God shall come in the last great day, to gather his elect home, and to “punish with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory and power;” — 2 Thes. 1:9, all those who disobey him and love not his glorious appearing.
But this “Latter Day” daughter wishes to do away with the truth of the above text, for in D. AND C. section 18:2, one Martin Harris, of Manchester, New York, on March 1830, pretended to get his “last and great command” from the Almighty in which he said to him that the “punishment should not be everlasting or without end,” but because God’s name was “eternal” and “endless” his punishment was the same. The truth of the above statement was clearly proven to us by one of their preachers, who said “everlasting, or eternal, or endless, means only three days and if I should happen to get there I think I can endure it that length of time, as afterwards there will be happiness.” I wish the reader to get the exact import of what they call eternal, end- ess, or everlasting punishment. A certain Mr. Jones has a son which has Teen disobedient. The father punishes the child severely: this is Jones’s punishment, but it has an end. So this daughter affirms God’s name is endless and eternal, and when he punishes the wicked it is eternal or endless punishment; but she affirms “that it is not written that there shall be no end to this torment.” See section 18:1, 2.
Oh the deceitfulness of sin and the devil to drown men in perdition! Let me tell you all who follow this dead prophet, and obey his commands, that hell is not a place to burn the sinner white and prepare him for heaven: but a place prepared for the devil and his angels, a place of everlasting woe and misery, where there is “wailing and gnashing of teeth.” — Matt. 25:30, 41, and chapter 13:42. “Where their worm [memory] dieth not and the fire is not quenched.” — Mark 9:48. The rich man proved, the truth of the above scriptures; when “in torment, he looked and saw Lazarus, in Abraham’s bosom, and cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, SON REMEMBER” * * *. — Luke 16:23. This man’s memory was not dead, and Abraham said, “between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot: neither can they pass to us, that WOULD COME from hence.” — Verse 26. Dives then remembered, that he had five brethren, yet out of this place of torment, and he wished Abraham to send Lazarus and warn them lest they came to that place of torment. Verse 28.
But to do away with the truth taught in these scriptures you say, “this is simply a parable, nothing more; there were no such persons as Dives, or Lazarus; the Lord used these names simply for his parable.” O ye blind guides! suppose we admit the same, you are not benefited in the least thereby. What has become of the truth it contained? it remains the same: if there were no such persons as Dives, or Lazarus, the truth remains intact; viz., a hell of torment from whence there is no way out. “But the smoke of their torment ascendeth up forever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, * * * but shall be tormented day and night forever and ever.” — Rev. 14:11, and chapter 20:10. Oh ye blind! ye imposters! you can never do away with God’s eternal word; for he saith his “word endureth forever.” And although you may suceed in deceiving a few poor souls this side of the great judgment; in that day your eyes will be opened and you will see that God is true to his word, when with all of your Aaronic priesthood the “greater and lesser” president, priests and prophets, you gain the punishment spoken of in God’s word and promised to all those who reject his words.
We find again by turning to Sec. 64 par. 2, that the elders of this sect in question claimed to get a “direct revelation,” on Sept. 11, 1831, in which the Lord said unto them, “I will be merciful unto you, for I have given you the kingdom: and the keys of the kingdom, shall not be taken from my servant Joseph Smith, while he liveth.” Again in March 1832, F. G. Williams pretended to get another “direct revelation,” and the Lord said to him; “Hearken to the calling wherewith ye are called, even to be a high priest in my church, and a counsellor unto my servant Joseph Smith, unto whom I have given the keys of the kingdom, which belongeth always unto the presidency of the high priest-hood.” See sec. 80 par. 1. But the heights of this deception and fanaticism is reached in sec. 87 par. 2, when the “seer” himself claimed to
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have talked with the Lord, on the 8th day of March 1833, at which time the Lord said to him, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, My son, thy sins are forgiven you, according to thy petitions, * * * therefore thou art blessed from henceforth, that bear the keys of the kingdom, given unto you: * * * verily, verily, I say unto you, The keys of the kingdom shall never be taken from you, while thou art in the world, neither the world to come.’’
This is a greater stride than the Mother has ever yet taken. Jer. Although she affirms that her pope holds the keys of the kingdom in this world; never as we know, has she ever claimed that he should hold them in the world to come. But this daughter with all of her poor deceived followers will find when too late, that it is, “He that liveth and was dead; and behold, is alive forever more, that hath the keys of death and hell, also hath the keys of David, and openeth and no man shutteth, and shutteth and no man openeth. Rev. 1:18, and 3:7. Isaiah also in speaking of this Christ and his mission, saith that the “key should be laid upon his shoulder, and he should open and none should shut, and should shut and none should open.” Isa. 22:20, 21. Praise the Lord for the Word which is “a lamp unto our feet, and a light unto our path,” and by it we are to measure all men. Isaiah also saith, “When they shall say unto you, seek unto them that hath similar spirits, * * * to the law and the testimony, if they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them. Isa. 8:19, 20. Praise God for the “measuring reed,” with which we are to “ measure the temple and altar and them that worship therein.”
In D. AND C. sec. 22, we find quite a lengthy account of a conversation between the “seer” and the Lord, pretended by “him” to be a “direct revelation” in June 1830. It is too lengthy to insert all here, but we shall give enough only to let the reader have the real import of it: but the whole of it is a rank mess of untruth from the beginning, and it is a wonder that men of sense who must know that the Bible is in almost every household, and every one has access freely to the same, will have the audacity to hold up such stuff to the world to be believed and accepted as from God. In the aboved named article Smith affirms that the Lord related his conversation with Moses on the mount to him in which the Lord said; “And now Moses my son, I will speak unto you concerning this earth upon which thou standeth; thou shalt write these things which I shall speak; and in a day when the children of men shall esteem my words as naught and take many of them from the book which thou shalt write, behold, I will raise up ANOTHER like unto thee, and they, [the words] shall be had again among the children of men.”
In connection with the above given section let us turn to sec. 27, par. 2. Here one Oliver Cowdery (one of the twelve) claimed to get another “direct revelation,” in Sept. 1830, and at that time the Lord said to him: “But behold, Verily I say unto thee, No one shall be appointed to receive commandments and revelations in the church excepting my servant Joseph Smith, for he receiveth them EVEN AS MOSES; and thou shalt be obedient unto the things which I shall give unto him, even as Aaron, to declare faithfully the commandments and revelations, with power and authority unto the church.”
And now we clearly understand by the above, that this “Latter Day” daughter would have us to know that this “seer and prophet” Joseph Smith, was the one that God would raise up like unto Moses,” also that he came in a day when many esteemed the law of “Moses as naught” the old Jewish priest-hood was done away with, and men accepted the Christ as their high priest and king. At this time this “seer and translator” procured the “golden plates” and translated them and gave to the world the “book of Mormon,” “which contains the fulness of the everlasting gospel, and now the children of men have the words of the Lord again.
Well said Paul to Timothy 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.” 1 Tim. 4:1, 2. Truly this scripture is fulfilled in the doctrine of this daughter; viz., “The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.” But God saith, “I will begin to bring evil on the city which is called by my name, and should ye be utterly unpunished ? Ye shall not be unpunished, for I will call for a sword upon all the inhabitants of the earth, saith the Lord of hosts.” Jer. 25:29. “Hear ye this, O house which is called by the name of Israel, * * * and make mention of the God of Israel, BUT NOT IN TRUTH, nor in righteousness.” Isa. 47:1. “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and the prophets did write, JESUS OF NAZARETH, the son of Joseph. Jno. 1:45. Praise God, he is the Christ, the priest and prophet, and king, whom God would raise up in Moses’ place; for Peter said, “For Moses said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you, * * * unto you first, God having raised up his son JESUS, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.” Acts 3:22-26.
We praise God for his Christ; through whose blood we are cleansed and made pure, and free from our sins, and prepared for his coming, whether it be at morning, noon, or at midnight. But the people in question cannot abandon the idea of their dead seer, in building a city on the earth which shall be called ZION, to which all the faithful must gather, prior to the coming of the Lord Jesus; for say they, “If such a city is not built, the Lord will never come.” V. OF W. page 106. And now at the present time they are going to Mexico to build the city, and get ready for the coming of the Lord. This we have direct from one of their own preachers with whom we talked face to face. “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in the which the leavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works therein shall be burned up.” 2 Pet. 3:10. “Watch therefore, for you know not what hour your Lord doth come.” The Millennium as looked for by this people will never come; but a day of burning and destruction and of woe to all who are unprepared. May the richest blessings of God the Father and of his Son Jesus Christ rest upon all the sanctified, and keep them constantly ready for the coming of our prophet, priest and king, to whom be glory now and forevermore. Amen.
W. B. Grover.
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News from the Field.
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Floating Bethel, Rochester, Pa.
May 9, 1894.
Dear Saints: It is wonderfull how the Lord manifests himself to those that obey him. The meeting closed up well at Pittsburgh, Pa. Three at the altar the last Sunday, and one baptized; and on Monday four more followed their Master down into the river. The last meeting was an ordinance service in which about thirty participated. We loosed from there, dropping out of the Allegheny river into the Ohio being borne by the current at the rate of four miles an hour, the Lord favoring us with beautiful weather. Some of the saints accompanied us as far as Emsworth where we stopped two hours. We stopped over night in Sewickly. They were very kind to us, and invited us to stay and hold meeting; but we felt the Lord urging us southward. But before we reached Rochester, a man came out in a boat and prevailed on us to stop at Freedom, which is one mile and a half from Rochester. The street cars connect the two towns, so that the people attend from both.
The company on the boat now consists of Bro’s B. F. Roe, Herbert Riggle, Sisters Minnie Riggle, Annie Reites, Ora Howard and my family. Our address will be until further notice, Rochester, Pa.
G. T. Clayton.
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Grand Junction, Mich.
To all the Children of God, Greeting: To day I am happy to report to you all once more that I am still saved in Jesus’ blood, praising him for a full and a complete salvation, from all the powers of the enemy, and I can truly say with Paul that I am dead and my life is hid with Christ in God, and the life which I now live I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and washed me from my sins in his own precious blood. I wish to say that my wife and I are still in the work of the Master, lifting up Christ as a complete Redeemer from all sin. We are out on the uncompromising line for God, and ever expect thus to remain devoted to the service of the Lord. I would say that any one desiring our help between this and camp meeting may notify us at Grand Junction. We ask the prayers of the saints that we may be used of God in helping to win the lost, for he that winneth souls is wise. From your humble servants,
Wm. and A. E. Warren.
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Grand Junction, Mich.
Dearly Beloved in Jesus: May the Lord increase all and keep you filled with his fullness continually. We were four weeks in Wayne county, Iowa. The Lord encouraged our hearts by giving us very precious meetings and adding to the church a few dear souls. Some indeed seem to be quite spiritual, yet are having some trouble to disrcen clearly the body of Jesus which is the church. The Lord amid great glory wonderfully healed a little child of spinal mengitis of which the doctor and others had but little hope, greatly encouraging and strengthened the faith of the parents and the church. Three were baptized, one of whom was once a Campbellite preacher but had long since ceased from his dead works, because as he said he never was sure the doctrine he taught was right and he could no longer teach to the people as truth something uncertain to himself. From here we came to Nichols, Iowa, and held a few meetings in an M. E. house which the Lord opened for us. Three or four consecrated themselves to the Lord. Dear Bro. Beck died to the F. M. sect and the Lord wonderfully witnessed to him of his pleasure in such a death. Next held two meetings in Fairport and then came on to Chicago and enjoyed meeting for a few evenings with the church.
We indeed feel grateful to all for their kindness to us, and praise God for his blessings upon us in this short trip. Truly his hand did lead us. He so clearly made himself known to us all the way and so sweetly gave us to know that we were in his order. He taught us many a useful lesson, gave us a deeper sense of his goodness, and enabled us to more fully appreciate his loving kindness in every way. To day there is a victory in our soul, a zeal for the cause of Christ, a holy vengeance in the name of Jesus against the powers of sin, and a longing to more fully manifest the life of Jesus to this world, also a desire for your prayers. Your saved brother and sister,
Chas. and Minnie Orr.
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Louisville, Ga., May 7, 1894.
Dear Ones in Jesus: Praise the Lord forever! We are rejoicing in the Truth, sanctified and meet for the Master’s use. 2 Tim. 2:21. We closed our meeting near Wrens, Ga., April. 29th. In that meeting three testified to the witness of their sanctification; one of whom, we believe as he does, that the Lord has called him to go out into the work, and that God can use him to do much good in building the walls of Jerusalem. Good congregations came out to hear the Word, and several got under conviction, but they would not completely give up and yield themselves entirely over into the hands of the Lord, and He could do nothing for them.
We came to this place last Saturday, and tried to secure a place to preach in but could not, and in the afternoon we felt led of the Lord to preach to the people on the public square, which we did to quite a number of both white and colored. And soon afterward the Sheriff, God bless him. offered us the Court House, which is right in the heart of the town, and nicely fitted up. We began meeting in it Saturday night, with a good congregation, mostly colored people, and held three services yesterday (Sunday), the number of colored people increasing, while the number of while people had diminished to less than thirty, with seeming little interest on the part of the most of them. So we began to feel that the Lord wanted us to move the meeting to the colored Baptist meeting house, where we had been invited during the day; but this seemed to move the white people who were there, and they requested us not to leave the Court House, and we appointed service there again for tonight. We love our race and want to see them saved, but if they reject the Gospel we will have to do like the Apostles, turn to the (colored) Gentiles. The devil has a big thing in this race, prejudice in the South, and in some places in the North too, we guess. And they that win souls here must be wise, and prudent, very prudent.
Dear ones in Jesus, do pray much for us that we may be that way, and oyercome every difficulty in getting the Gospel of Jesus to the people, both white and colored. We are receiving calls from other places in this and other states. Praise the Lord! But we will remain here as long as the good Lord wills. Amen.
J. E. Shaw and wife,
W. E Gillespie.
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Hoytville, Mich., May 8, 1894.
May Grace and truth abound to all the Saints: When last we wrote you from Gratiot Co., this state, God was blessing our labors wonderfully. Am happy to say he is still with us. We are enjoying all the fulness of God, amid strife and contentions, among some who are professing to be saved from sectism. Upon coming to this place, we found a class of people who held to the oneness in Christ, pretending to stand aloof from Babylon, teaching for doctrine a line of superstition, equal if not worse than that of the Galileans, or Zealots. See Luke 13:1. This sect or party though small in number is headed by one William Roach, who according to his own testimony has the form of godliness but denying the power, and has been so instructing men for the last fifteen or sixteen years, others who seem to know say about eleven or twelve years.
The lives of his followers are hypocritical in the extreme, the natural outgrowth of the doctrine of justification being the complete work; he denies such a thing as a second work of grace, or in other words the gift of the Holy Ghost, claiming a single work, namely, justification by faith, to be all that is necessary; that God never does a half-way piece of work, etc. Teaching that to set out an altar, ordaining of elders or deacons and such like things are of the devil. But “I am Roach and you listen to me.” His followers have refused to come near our meetings at all, in fact their hearts have become so prejudiced and their lives so different from what they profess, and their teaching so different from the word of God, that the world has lost all respect for them. Bro. C. F. Green and Bro. John Lundquest having been followers of his, being honest at heart, and having become convinced that there was more for them, began to look about for more light; and in answer to prayer, through the providence of God, Sisters Bollinger and Smith were sent here. We began meeting with the four mentioned above and Bro. Green’s hired man, making in all an audience of five souls. This was on Saturday evening April 22d. Preached to about a dozen on Sunday morning. Sunday evening about twenty were present Learned at that time that Roach had sent an appointment to preach on. Sunday evening April 30, at Centre School, about one-fourth of a mile from where we were holding meeting. [As we could not obtain school house through the week on account of school]. Brother Green having just removed from the old dwelling on his place he prepared that for use, where we are holding meetings at this writing. God moved on us to adjourn our meeting and attend his. The school house was filled with worldly people, as that community is made up principally of that class. The hour arrived and passed. About eight o’clock he made his appearance, began meeting at once by prayer. We were led out to pray for him and did so. After the singing of a few verses, he talked about thirty-five minutes, on the faith once delivered to the saints from his own standpoint, denying any one the right to search the scriptures by turning from place to place to prove a point of doctrine, etc.
Having been credibly informed previous to that time that his ministry bore no fruit, and having since learned that there has not been a soul saved, no, not even an accession to his party for eight or nine years, we were enabled by the Spirit of God with holy boldness to rebuke in the name of Jesus, the whole proceeding, by asking where was the fruit of his labor, and to tell him that when Zion ceased to bring forth, that God would remove the candlestick out of its place, and that I perceived his had been removed; and put the plain question, Where is it? God gave us a wonderful victory. Hallelujah! to God be all the glory. We have had no trouble about audiences since then. Good attendance and good behavior. Well dear ones, God is giving us souls for our hire. Four consecrations since our meeting began; the ground well prepared and an abundance of seed sown. Let us pray that it may spring upward, take root downward, and bring forth much fruit in his own good time.
God has desolated Babylon in this place. The M. E. cage of unclean birds at Hoytville, north of us has ceased to have any regular lectures. There is a grand opening here for a more convenient season for the farmers. I pray the Master may send in earnest workers this fall and winter. I look for Brother and Sister Merritt here this evening or to morrow morning. We expect to go from here to Eagle, God willing, next Friday. Anyone wishing meetings a few days between this and camp meeting, say up to June 10, thereabouts, can address us either here at Hoytville or Grand Junction, and it will be forwarded to us. Your brother, saved, sanctified and satisfied.
G. B. Collins.
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OBITUARIES.
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Clement Warner Whitaker Hause, son of Emmanuel and Elizabeth Hause, died Apr. 5, 1894, aged ten years, ten months, and thirty days. God bless the bereaved friends of the deceased and help them prepare to meet him in that brighter world above.
Funeral services by the writer.
Wm. G. Schell.
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Ezra Michael, son of David and Elizabeth Michael, departed this life April 4, 1894; aged twenty years, four months, and one day. Ezra was a good boy, and is greatly missed in the community. A short time before his death, in a prayer-meeting held at the house of his parents, he gave his heart unto the Lord, receiving a clear witness of his acceptance with God. Funeral services were conducted by the writer in the Reformed house of worship at Lawrenceville, Ohio, Apr. 5. God bless the bereaved parents and friends.
Wm. G. Schell.
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“VISIBLE CHURCH ORGANIZATION, — IS IT RIGHT?”
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WHAT IS THE CHURCH?
We take no time to refer to History, Dictionary, or Theology; but will let God’s word answer.
“And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.” — Eph. 1:22, 23. “Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church. Col. 1:24. Hence we see that the body of Christ is the church, and the church is the body of Christ.
Now of what is the body of Christ composed? Ans. “Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” — 1 Cor. 12:27. To whom was Paul writing? Ans. “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.” — 12:1.
Paul addresses his letter thus, “Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.” — 1 Cor. 1:2. Then the church is composed of saved people, not only at Corinth, but all, in every place, that have salvation, and worship God in reality.
HOW MANY CHURCHES ARE THERE?
Ans. “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we, being many, are one body [church] in Christ, and every one members of another.” — Rom. 12:4, 5. “But now are they many members, yet but one body.” 1 Cor. 12:20. Solomon in prophesying of the church said, “My dove, my undefiled, is but one.” Song. 6:9.
We may not take the time and space to comment on these scriptures concerning the church; they are so very simple, and plain, we can see clearly, that God has but one church.
FOUNDATION.
“And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” — Matt. 16:18. Some say, Peter is the foundation; some say, the confession that Peter made, — thou art the Christ, etc., — and some say that Christ is the foundation of the church. But let us see what God’s word says, “Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” Isa. 28:16. “Wherefore also it is contained in the Scripture, Behold I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.” — 1 Pet. 2:6. “Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud, and in the sea; and did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all drink the same spiritual drink; for they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them: and that rock was Christ.” 1 Cor. 10:1—4. Here we find that Christ is a rock; now if we can find that he is a foundation, we will know the truth of the matter, and behold here we read,” For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 3:11. These plain declarations are enough to prove to any honest heart that Christ is the foundation of the church, and a little common sense with reason is sufficient to teach people that only one building can be put on one foundation. Therefore all men-made structures, and foundations, that have been planned and set up centuries since that time are no part of the church.
PURITY OF THE CHURCH.
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word: that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Eph. 5:25-27.
Solomon speaking of the church says, “Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee.” — Song. 4:7.
“For I am jealous over you with godly jealously: for I have espoused you [the [church to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.” 2 Cor. 11:2. Chaste means, “Modest; without taint, pure, uncorrupt.” “And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” — Rev. 19:6-8.
These scriptures plainly prove, that the church of God is pure, and holy, and without spot, each member, — not only desires to be saved, but — is in possession of salvation, and bringing forth fruit to the glory of God. There being no sect, but what has many or few sinners in, is evident that they are not the church.
DOOR OF THE CHURCH.
Jesus says, “I am the door: by me if any man enter in he shall be saved.” — Jno. 10:9. This certainly implies that all who are desiring to be saved, are not yet in the church. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through [the door] our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Rom. 5:1. again Jesus says, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man commeth unto the Father but by me.” — Jno. 14:6. “Verily, verily I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, [church] but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief, and a robber.” Jno. 10:1.
Since salvation is the mode of induction into the church, it follows, that all who try to get in without being saved, are thieves and robbers. “But now hath God set the members, every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.” — 1 Cor. 12:18.
But how does God set the members in the church? Ans. “For BY ONE SPIRIT are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one spirit.” 1 Cor. 12:13. This clearly shows what is the door, and how to get into the body, the church.
NAME OF THE CHURCH.
“And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name.” — Isa. 62:2. Now we go to the New Testament to learn what the new name is. Jesus prays, “And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name.” — Jno. 17:11, 12. Since Jesus kept them in his Father’s name, they must have been named after the Father. Then let us see what the Father’s name is.
“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.” — 2 Cor. 1:3. We see that the Father’s name is God. But some say that we have different names; but God’s word teaches to the contrary. “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.” — Eph. 3:14, 15.
Some say there is nothing in a name. We admit that there is nothing in some names, only to distinguish one family, or sect from another; but the “name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” — Prov. 18:10.
But is the church named after the Father?
Ans. “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” — Acts. 20:28. Unto the church of God at Corinth, etc. — 1 Cor. 1:2; 2 Cor. 1:1. Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God. 1 Cor. 10:32. Now read 1 Cor. 11:16, 22; 15:9; Gal. 1:13; I Tim. 3:5, 15. And in Heb. 12:23, It says, “Church of the firstborn;” and that is Jesus, and his name is God also.
This certainly is enough proof that the new name is, “Church of God.”
We find “churches of Christ” once in the New Testament. Rom. 16:16. But no where can we find “A church of Christ.” neither “The church of Christ,” nor “Baptist church,” nor Christian Church,” nor “Methodist,” “Wesleyan Methodist,” “Free Methodist,” nor “Presbyterian church.” These all and hundreds of others having been built by men, since the New Testament was written, “they are the number of a man.” Each has a separate, and different book of discipline, are named by men’s mouths, and not by the mouth of the Lord; hence they are not the church of God, neither “a church of Christ.”
GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH.”
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the prince of peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” — Isa. 9:6, 7. “For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our law giver, the Lord is our King; he will save us.” — Isa. 33:22. There is one [only one] lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy. Jas. 4:12. When Jesus, and his disciples were on a high mountain apart “Behold a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud which said, This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” — Matt. 17:1-5. “For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.” — Acts 3:22, 23. “For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the Savior of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.” — Eph. 5:23, 24.
In the above scripture is positive proof that Christ is the only head of the church, and the government is upon his shoulder. He is Judge, lawgiver, able to save and to destroy. God says hear ye him. Now let us see what Jesus said.
RULES OF THE CHURCH.
“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” — Matt. 4:23. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, [for discipline] for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” — 2 Tim. 3:19, 17. His command: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark. 16:15. Read Matt. 28:19, 20.
RESULT WHEN NOT OBEYED.
“What shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” — 1 Pet. 4:17. Ans. “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: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.” — 2 Thes. 1:6-9. “He that believeth [the gospel] and is baptized [or obeys the gospel] shall be saved; but he that believeth not [the gospel] shall be damned” — or condemned. Mark 16:16. “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book, and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” Rev. 22:18, 19.
God help people to see, when they add their little creeds, and disciplines of men, to his word, or reject any part of it, they place themselves in danger of the awful plagues, and judgments of God, that shall be revealed upon the wicked in the last day.
Thos. Carter.
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LITTLE THINGS.
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Akron, Ind.
Dear Saints of God and Trumpet Readers, Everywhere: In the name of Jesus let me talk to you. For some time the spirit of God has been upon me, impressing me to write in the name of Jesus, concerning the means needed to publish the truth. And when we fasted and prayed on April 15, the Spirit told me again to write. And now as I write, I feel the mighty power of God in it. The Lord showed me how to relieve the Trumpet Office of its debts, and more than that, but abundantly supply all the needs of the dear Trumpet family. I was in Babylon machinery fourteen years, and my business was to collect money for the preachers, and to run the machine. I held collections. I remember of receiving fifteen dollars in one ordinary congregation. This was done by each one doing a little. Now much of that money was not spent for the glory of God. Now dear saints of God, as God has saved us out in this pure evening light, should we not do as much, yea more than we did in Babylon, since we do know that our money goes for the spread of the pure gospel? Now dear ones, I know that the times are hard and money is hard to get, but which of you is not able, by the help of God, to pay one dollar within one month from now; we say, till the fifteenth of June. There are many who have one dollar or two that they could send, but think it not worth while to send so little. Now when we were in Babylon we did not tell them how much they should give, but the Lord tells me to ask for one dollar from each subscriber. And I say, in the name of Jesus, let it not stop there, but let each TRUMPET reader feel interested in this glorious work of spreading the pure gospel to a lost world. Remember the dear ones at the Office are working very busy, all for God and the spread of the gospel, without money, only receiving what they eat and wear.
Dear saints, many of us have been saved from tobacco, tea, and coffee; and God has become our physician, so we don’t have doctor bills to pay, or medicine to buy. All this is saved by the dear Lord saving us. Now let us glorify God by giving him at least part of that money. Now to some of you one dollar may loot very small, but let not that stop you from doing your duty. If you have more of the Lord’s money, send it in the name of Jesus. I want to tell you what small things will do. There are perhaps 1,800 paying subscribers to the TRUMPET; and many more read the TRUMPET, for over 6,000 TRUMPETS are printed each week. So you see most of the readers get their paper free of charge, and are glad to see a pure gospel go forth.
Now you can see, by sending one dollar, what small things will do. It will lift the whole debt, and put every thing in a prosperous condition. Will you have a share in this? Methinks I hear thousands of responds, amen and amen. Sisters, let this stir your hearts. While the brethren are getting their money ready, see if the Lord will not move you to give one dollar for the Lord. You young men that have been saved from spending your money for the devil, will you not give a little for the Lord?
I would also say to each elder at every place to call particular attention to this, and stir up the pure minds by way of remembrance. There need be no mention made of who sends the money, but the fifeenth of June then let every body hear what little things will do. Your brother, saved and sanctified,
David Leininger.
THY TESTIMONIES ARE WONDERFUL.
Psa. 119:129.
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Easton, Mo.
Dear Saints of God: May the Lord abundantly bless you and keep you. He is still keeping me saved, sanctified, and healed, and I give Jesus all the glory. For he has done wonderful things for me. It is so sweet to trust Jesus. I do not get to meet with the saints to hear the word preached, still Jesus is helping me by his assisting grace to stand true to him. I am getting real hungry to hear the word preached. Truly God’s word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path; and I do greatly rejoice in the Lord. My soul shall be joyful in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation. Oh the Lord is good to his children. He taketh pleasure in his people. He will beautify the meek with salvation.
Should any of the saints be passing through St. Joseph, Mo. we would love to have them come to see us. You would find a glad welcome and a happy greeting. Should any one feel led to stop with us, address Fred Switzer, Easton, Mo. Easton is twelve miles east of St. Joseph on the Hannibal and St. Joseph R. R. We live two miles south of Easton. Dear saints everywhere, I ask an interest in your prayers, that I may always be found doing God’s will at all times. Your sister saved in Jesus,
Emma Switzer.
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Matthews, Ga.
Dear Saints: I feel impressed to write a few lines for the GOSPEL TRUMPET. How it thrills my soul with joy to read so many glorious experience from people all over this land! A precious meeting just closed near Wrens, Ga. I must tell what the good Lord has done for me. The Lord Jesus is so good to me, until I cannot keep quiet any longer. I attended the meeting regular, and from the very first, I was convicted. Really I have been under conviction for three years, but would not yield. O what awful mistakes we make in our lives! I knelt for prayer several times, and one night while kneeling for prayer, the Lord convicted me so deeply, I felt that I could not leave until I received pardon. I wanted to ask the good brothers and sisters to remain with me until I was satisfied about my souls salvation, but Satan would say to me, Why, if you do that, the people will laugn at you, and you will keep those people here all night and they won’t be able to preach tomorrow. I obeyed Satan and of course I was not saved. But I left the school room that night with a determination to receive the blessing before the next service. I spent the night with a friend, and while going from the school room to her home, I prayed earnestly all the way for deeper conviction, and my prayers were answered. I was so deeply convicted I could not sleep; my pillow was wet with tears, and I felt that I was entirely forsaken, that I had no friends at all. The next morning I found it impossible for me to eat. I was still weeping and asking God for pardon. I tried to read God’s word but my tears would blind me so I could not read. My friend would look at me in wonder, as she was not a Christian. About eight o’clock Wednesday morning I went to a good sanctified brother and and asked him to pray with me. We knelt in earnest prayer, and oh what a good prayer he uttered in my behalf. About ten o’clock the good Lord showered the blessings down upon me; I was gloriously and most wonderfully converted. Oh I was so happy; I cannot express my happiness. That afternoon I visited a sick sister, and read a chapter and had prayer with her, something I never did before. And Wednesday night I could stand up and testify for Jesus. Praise God for a bright conversion! I will ask all the praying people to pray for me that I may very soon receive the blessing of entire sanctification. For three years I have been under conviction, and now when I look back over the last three years of my life and see how wicked I was, and the Holy Spirit striving with me all the while, and I would not yield, I can’t see how the blessed Lord was so merciful unto me. How it makes my heart ache to think of my past life! I was a vile sinner, though I loved holiness, and I realized too that without holiness we would never see the Lord. Though I was a vile sinner, I loved to be with good people and hear them talk of Jesus.
Near three years ago I had measles, and believed I should die. I felt myself totally unprepared to appear before a holy God, and was in great distress, I earnestly entreated him to spare me a little longer, and resolved I would then spend a new life indeed. A patient forbearing love of God listened to my request, and did not cut me off. I began improving and was restored to health again. How it wounds my heart to say that I broke my solemn vow, and was more wicked than I ever was before. I went on leading such a life, and last August I had a severe attack of typhoid fever. I have always believed that it was sent on me on account of my sins, and I believe it was through the prayers of the good people that I was restored again. Yet I went on in sin; God strove with me in various ways. I repeatedly grieved the Holy Spirit. I loved dancing, novels and dress. Pride, I found to be my most besetting sin. I therefore set myself against that in particular. God often wrought strangely upon my mind and that in various ways. But oh how did I grieve and resist the Holy Spirit! How justly might he have given me up; yea, and sealed me over to eternal destruction. But through his goodness and mercy I received strength and grace to conquer sin. Since the. good Lord has done so much for me, and I look back over my past life, my heart pains within me and my tears flow freely. I am willing now to do any thing for Jesus. I am willing to bear persecution for Christ’s sake.
“Trusting in Jesus I’m happy and free,
Moment by moment on Jesus I stay,
Trusting the future will ever be blest,
Trusting oh trusting, my soul is at rest.
Your sister in Cnrist,