9 April 1896, Volume 16, Number 15.
ADVANCEMENT.
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The time has come, my brethren dear,
That God is whispering in your ear,
And fills each soul with new desire
That burns with the baptismal fire.
Yes, fire that comes from Heaven’s throne,
That purifies, and that alone
From every sin, from every stain,
That we like priests and kings may reign.
On! on! the watchword all must heed,
As Christ our chief is in the lead;
Oh do not stop at grumble’s gate!
For fall you must, — the grumbler’s fate.
The multitude of crafty ways
That Satan builds in these fast days,
Requires the wisdom from on high.
To shun them all and pass them by.
To follow in the narrow way,
Salvation you must live each day,
And with a forward onward move
Will faithfully each promise prove.
True, each anointed soul will feel,
If often in the closet kneel,
The power of God’s love and will
Each waiting soul so gently fill.
Oh brethren! let us always pray
In faith believing every day,
That we like Christ may ever be,
And clothed with his humility.
May we increase with God’s increase,
And every tie and bond release;
Increase in faith, increase in love,
Till we have reached the heights above.
— H. W. Hechler.
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Another Daughter of Confusion.
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ABOUT the youngest daughter of the great harlot family, and one that was born late enough to inherit the propensities of pride and arrogance, practiced by the mother of division for many centuries, was born in Chicago, Feb. 22, 1896. Much had been said in reference to what title the little daughter should receive to characterize her from her many sisters Here the father of sectism stepped in and handed forth an appellation that received the applause of all concerned, and they demoninated their new born sect, “The Christian Catholic Church.”
The principle, or chief of this move is one who bears the title of Rev. John Alex Dowie, who says, in speaking of the apostles his new faction must have, “I do not think that I can see any of them yet, but that does not alter the fact that WE have got to organize this church as God did it. It must be upon the pattern that God gave. I shall organize on that pattern, or not at all.”
Where is the church that Jesus built or organized, and said that the gates of hell [hades] shall not prevail against it? Matt. 16:18. When was this divine organization demolished by the gates of hell? When did the devil tear down the church of God and prove the Son of God a liar? Where do we learn that Omnipotence has bestowed upon Dowie the prerogative of God, and eighteen hundred and sixty-three years after the church of Christ was perfected, invested him with the authority that the Son of God alone possessed, and sent him forth to build the church of Christ, since he, Jesus, has failed to build one that would stand against the works of hell.
This sect builder says, “We have got to proceed carefully, and I will have to bear the burden until the church has come to a place where it can do a great many things without ME, * * * All our servants are our felow servants, and I feel that I am simply the CHIEF of a number of fellow servants. I feel the same as general overseer of “the Christian Catholic Church.”
In speaking of humility, Dowie says, “Did you ever read that the apostle had humility enough to say that he was the chief of sinners?” (1 Tim. 1:15) He praises Paul for his humility. But instead of acknowledging himself the chief of sinners, he sets himself up as the chief of his brethren. Jesus alone has the preeminence in his own church. Col. 1:18. But in this man-made ism, Jesus Christ is ruled out and man is GENERAL OVERSEER.
Of secret societies Dowie says, “I will not say that a man cannot be a member of the Christian Catholic Church who may be connected with some form of secret society; but I will say that it is my judgment that such a man is sinning against God in belonging to a secret oath-bound organization. * * * I cannot understand how any brother, with the clear pure word of God in his hand, can go into secret societies and call men brothers who he believes are going to hell.”
He calls this “sinning against God,” but does not say such characters will be debarred from the fellowship of his sect. He seems to not like for one to fellowship men in secret orders who are going to hell, but takes them into his craft and gets the fellowship second hand, which only makes it worse. All the miracles and wonders performed by such people in these last days, who are in square contradiction to the word of God, are not wrought by the influence of the Holy Spirit, for it agrees with the Word. So let all saved people beware of every antichrist spirit, lest coming in contact with such elements they become possessed of a spirit that is difficult to overcome. Let all the pure abide in the whole truth, and Jesus will be unto us healer and Savior of both body and soul. Praise the Lord!
W. A. Haynes.
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Jesus leads his Sheep.
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“VERILY, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way the same is a thief and a robber.
But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
To him the porter openeth, and the sheen hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them and they follow him: for they know his voice.” — John 10:1-4.
Jesus says he leadeth them. The children of God are his sheep, for he is our God, and we are the people of his parture, and the sheep of his hand. “He leadeth me beside the still waters; he restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” “My sheep hear my voice; I know them and they follow me.” John 10:27. Jesus never leads us into places of sin. If we go we must leave the loving Savior, to get into sin, and we should always think, Will Jesus go there? Or would you want to go any place that you could not go from that place to meet God with joy? If we go anyplace, or do any thing, that would spoil the wedding garment, remember the Lord will not know us. “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” — 2 Thes. 5:22. There is no use in testifying that we are dead to the world, and then conform to some of it. “And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your minds, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” — Rom. 12:2.
It means so much to be saved from all sin, to be dead to this world, dead indeed. “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” — Rom. 6:11. Let the weak say, I am strong. Paul says, “Finally my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might.” — Eph. 6:10. Watch ye, stand fast in the faith; quit you like men; be strong.” — 1 Cor. 16:13. Instead of complaining so much about being weak we ought to be praising the Lord for the privilege of being strong in the Lord, and if we will let the Lord lead us we will be strong; for he will lead us into fat pastures. My soul is pained when I see so many of the professed children of God living so far below the Bible standard of salvation, and not able to eat of the good things of Cannan. Let each one be willing to follow Jesus, just where he leads. Your sister in Christ,
A. F. Eakman.
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Concerning Testimony.
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IN the letter preceeding this one I believe I closed, with reference to our talk glorifying God. I do not want any one to get the wrong understanding of what I wrote; but I mean as Solomon did when he said, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” — Prov. 25:11. See Prov. 15:23. This does not give completely what I had reference to, but we should of course speak in due time, while our testimony should be that which our present experience and about that which we palpably understand.
God does not want all of us to preach; for we have different gifts. This is very well illustrated in the fifth chapter of Mark, where the one that had been delivered of the legion of devils, besought Jesus that he might go with him. But what was Christ’s answer to him? Ver. 19 “Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but said unto him, go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.”
What a beautiful example this teaches us! We do not all have to “go into the world and preach to all nations,” but some are to stay at home and tell their friends and folks what God has done for them, and how he has delivered from the binding chains of Satan. We all can do a great work in spreading the gospel if we will just abide in the position in which we are placed. This man possibly could do more for the cause by going to his friends and telling them what God had done for him, and talking salvation to them, than he could by going but into the field with Christ and the disciples.
So dear saints, let us use the talent which God has given us, and use it where he has placed us in the body. Rom. 12:3-9. “And tell how great things the Lord has done for us,” then when Christ says for us to “go ye therefore into all the world,” do not hesitate but go, for we can understand the will of God in this matter. While this is a fact, there are therefore to be some local preachers or elders, and God will lay this upon some one, as this calling must be fulfilled.
Do you ever just stop and think of the awful responsibility that rests upon us here? If all truly realized it, surely some would not be so slothful in their Christian duties; and if we do realize the awful judgment now pending over the nations, let us not step out of our calling, for if we do we will do more harm than good.
But there is one duty that all are called to, and that is this; to confess Christ before men; this is a duty exclusively for all the children of God. Neither does it make any difference how much the devil trys to depress us, we have a right to testify to what God has done for us; and when he
comes against us with all the powers of the bottomless pit, bringing in different accusations, trying as it were to crush out the last inspiration of divine influence from our hearts, we can then by the authority of divine providence, arise and overcome him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony.
I believe the devil sometimes keeps some of us from testifying, by making us think that we are not led. Let us, dear saints, in the name of King Jesus, overcome every imposition that the enemy of our souls does bring. Praise the Lord we can be made more than conquerors through him that loved us and gave himself for us, that we might be delivered from ALL our ENEMIES. By reading the first thirteen verses of the forty-third chapter of Isaiah, you will perceive he is speaking of the church. The first seven verses are glorious promises to the church. He speaks of us passing through the waters, which figuratively means, afflictions, and leaves the comforting words, “I will be with thee,” with other promises that I will not speak of here. Then at the eighth verse he appeals to us for witness of his omnipotency. Then what does he say? He speaks like this; “Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears; let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled. Who among them can declare this, and show us former things? Let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified.” After God had given us such promises as are the first seven verses, then he says to bring forth the blind and the deaf, then let the nations be assembled. Then he asks the question, Who among them can declare this, and shew us former things? What things? Why, the precious promises just spoken of in the first few verses. Who among them can declare that God had favored them with all of them? Then he further says, Let them “bring forth their witnesses,” “that they may be justified. Yes, it the blinded idol worshippers of to day, try to declare such things why “just let them bring forth their witnesses.” And we must be sure that we enjoy the blessings these promises promise, that we can declare it, and that we can witness to the same. Then after God has brought up this, he then calls upon the church, and says, “Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord.” He then substantially wants us to testify to all the favor he shows upon the church, and to witness to the world the wonderful omnipotency of the mighty God in delivering us from our diseases and giving us grace to stand persecutions for the sake of the gospel. In verse twelve he says, “Therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God.”
Truly we should be witnesses that God is God, and that he is the “Head of the body the church,” and that he is “all and in all,” and that without him we can do nothing; that he does deliver us from all our maladies, and comforteth us in times of trial; yea, he gives us that joy and peace that passeth understanding, and knowledge which keeps our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Dear saints of God, be sure you have the experience; do sink deeper in humility; do live more devotional to God, and do your duty fearless of any one. Do you not know, that unless you are a living sacrifice for God, and that unless you are trusting God for all things, that unless he heals your sickness, saves your soul from sin, and gives you an experience in accordance with the word of God, and that you enjoy the blessings which he promises, you cannot be a real witness for God? We must witness to the world that all these things are true which God promises in his holy word. Let us be sure, dearly beloved, that we do our duty in this line; and that we abide in our calling and that we bring no reproach upon the cause of Christ, but everything may be done to the honor and glory of God. Oh for more humility, and genuine love to God and man! Let us never, never stop sinking down in the manifold grace of God, until we shall lay down this earthly tabernacle and be present with the Lord, where all is joy and sweet rest throughout all eternity. Amen.
Charlie Akers.
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TESTIMONIES.
“Thy Testimonies are Wonderful.” – Psa. 119:129.
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Bonfield, Ill.
Dear Saints of God: I feel led to write my testimony for the first time. I am praising the Lord for a free and full salvation. I am now satisfied that whom the Son maketh free is free indeed. Christ is my all and in all. There are not many of the saints around here, but the Lord is with us. The enemy is trying hard to capture the few that are out clear for God; but praise the dear Lord, if we are true to him he will help us, for he has promised to be a present help in every time of need. So pray for us. Your sister saved, sanctified and kept by power divine,
Milly C. Kirchner.
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Chicago, Ill.
Dear Saints: I am praising God for saving me out of the awful delusions of Methodism and every other ism, and placing me in the body of Christ as pleaseth him. I heard the truth preached last July in the Open Door Mission, saw the evil of sectism and left my sect, and for four months walked in darkness, not realizing that I had to throw away my empty profession, come to God as a sinner and get salvation. But praise God, who is rich in mercy to all honest souls, he showed me my condition and I repented of my sins, and he saved me. Praise his name! I am praising God to day for victory in my soul. I have consecrated for sanctification, and believe that God accepts the gift, but I want your prayers that my experience may deepen. Yours all on the altar for God,
A. Snively.
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New Pittsburg, Ind.
Dear Saints of God: I can truly praise God for his goodness toward me. I realize his presence with me, and I can testify that God wonderfully healed me. I was afflicted ever since I was twelve years old with the bone erysipelas, and also a lame hand, and I could not walk around in the house. I had to slide around on my chair to do my work. I told my companion I was going to get healed. We went to meeting and the brothers and sisters were called on to pray for the healing of another woman. So I thought if God could heal others he could me; so I called on them to pray for me, and they laid on hands and the prayer of faith healed me and the Lord raised me up; and to him I give all the glory and praise. Pray for me that I may be used of God. Your sister, sanctified and living in the one body,
Abigail Thomas.
Page 2
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THURSDAY. APRIL 9, 1896.
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LIST OF MONEY LETTERS NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED
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Belle Wilson, Sarah N. Wel’s. Laura A. Goodale. Mrs. J. J. Hofer. A. H. Klemmer. G. B. Collins J. B. Shockman. Peter Ropp. J. J. Shoup Mrs. Amanda Hood. Geo. V Nelson, Mrs. Geo Moult..n. Paul Gregg, W. R. Dunlap. D P. Kimmel, B. E. Warren.
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Bro. A. B. Stanberry writes from McCauley, Ark. to the saints in N. E Arkansas and S. E. Missouri of a children’s home and school started in that locality known as the “Moark Saints’ Home and School.” Any one desiring further particulars concerning can write to Bro. Stanberry at the above address, enclosing stamp for reply.
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The general camp meeting will be held one mile north of Grand Junction, Mich., June 10-19. The outlook is favorable for having one of the best meetings ever held on those grounds, and a large attendance is expected, and a wonderful manifestation of the power of God in saving souls, healing the sick, establishing believers. We expect this to be a meeting to not only result in the advancement and better qualifying of the ministry, but to benefit all who come for the purpose of helping and being helped. Let us as workers together assemble in the name of the Lord “contending earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints.” Everybody invited.
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We are constantly receiving requests from every direction to pray for the sick and distressed, but many come too late for publication. Such requests are remembered before the Lord by the Trumpet family. For some time we have felt led to annouce a certain time for special prayer, that all the sick who desire, and those in spiritual trouble, can put in their cases before the Lord wherever they are, whether they have opportunity to write or not, and all the Trumpet readers can exercise faith at that time that all such may receive a benefit from the Lord. The time set for prayer is each Wednesday night at the evening meeting, and Sunday at half past ten.
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Requests For Prayer.
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Virginia Shipman, Bancroft. — Invalid.
Sarah Shepherd, Osborn. — Invalid forty years.
J. Clark, West Brewester. — Very sick with La Grippe,
Emma Carsin, Diamond Springs. — Herself and husband healing.
Ann Darby, Ft. Wayne. — Healing of cough and nervousness.
Mrs Vermoty, Dixon — Healing of consumption. April 12.
H. R. Gassaway, Malakoff. — Deliverance from tobacco habit. Entire sanctification.
Hattie Quin, Red Key. — Healing of rheumatism and other complaints. Pray April 12.
Pray that my mother may be healed of catarrh and throat troubles. Mamie Joiner, Shubuta.
Please pray for my wife to receive a full experience of salvation. S. A. Culbertson, Hope.
Pray for J. A. Burt, Gatesville, that he may be saved; also for his wife who has lost her mind.
Pray that my wife may be healed of neuralgia and rheumatism. D. E. Weidner, La Fayette.
Pray that I may be restored to God, also for my healing of deafness and catarrh of the head. S. E. Rednou.., Freedom.
I am afflicted with a scum of mist over my eyes. Pray for the restoration of my eyesight. M. D. Houser, Winchester.
Susan Petty, Sumner. — Healing of rheumatism. Also for my daughter, Mary Petty — Healing of bodily afflictions.
Pray that I may be healed of paralysis, and my wife healed of rheumatism, and that some one will come here to preach the pure gospel. Robert A. Goode, Calabasas, Ariz.
Pray for a sister in Jeffersonville, Ind. who is a great sufferer from cancer of the womb piles, and kidney trouble in its worst form. She has spent all she h d with the doctors, all to no avail. Her faith is in the Lord.
Pray for my granddaughter, Manda Warner who is badly afflicted. She is thirteen years old and has never walked. Cannot stand alone, nor use her right arm. One side partly paralyzed; and she has very hard fits. Eliza Nash.
Pray for my husband who has not walked a step for five months without help. The doctors pronounce his disease paralysis, and incurable. Also pt ay for me, as I have a breaking out in my hands and face, also in my hair on top of my head. The doctors pronounce it eczema. I will trust the Lord for my healing. E. J. Bain, Picard.
Pray for my husband who left me fourteen months ago and is far from God. For my uncle, John C. Derry, who has been afflicted with fits for several years. For my father and brother, that they may be reconciled to God. And for my little boy, that he be healed of indigestion and stomach trouble. Pray for me also; I am not healed, but have no less confidence in the Lord. Laura H. Spitzmesser, Elwood.
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Calls For Meeting.
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Alvin Cook, Hurricane, Wis.
Parkey Seaton, Gatesville, Tex.
Address Kate Huston, Windsor, Mo.
A camp or grove meeting is desired to be held about the middle or last of June near Devil’s Lake, North Dakota. Address Jas. N. Miller.
We desire some of God’s true ministers to come here and preach. A religious campaign is needed throughout New York state. I know of no true gospel minister in this state. I am planning for an assembly meeting to be held May 21- 29. I will arrange for the grove as the Lord may direct. Chauncey C. Smith, Port Byron, Cayuga Co., New York.
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TRUTH AND ERROR. — NO. 1
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The truth of God’s word will stand firm and steadfast against all the oppositions of the enemy. It may apparently be crushed to the ground for a time but will rise and shine the brighter exposing its enemies and bringing to light the hidden things of darkness. While the truth of the Word has brought to light that sectism is a heresy, and something which God never ordained, nor countenanced, although he had some true followers who were ignorantly drawn into its clutches, yet by living up to all the light they had were blessed and owned of him, but the sect itself was never ordered, or blessed of God.
As the light of truth is now shining forth and the ransomed of the Lord returning unto Zion, with songs of everlasting joy, and the true church of God is discerned by the holy “remnant” as prophesied of old, and his children are advancing in spiritual strength and knowledge of the Lord, the enemy of souls is trying to work in other heresies to hinder the advancement of the children of God and to turn them from the line of Bible truth into the ways of error.
Just at the present time the devil is mustering his hosts to usher in a spirit of error of the darkest hue, among the children of God who have taken a stand for the truth and contending for the faith once delivered to the saints. It leads into a regular heresy, and is deceptive to the extreme. A spirit of bondage and denouncing all who will not bow to the same clannish delusion. With its false discernment it leads its captives into the most rank fanaticism on any or all points of doctrine as the devil sees fit to push them, and leads beyond the word of God, yet claiming to be led by the Spirit. As to fanaticism the following is a brief description.
“Fanaticism begins in spiritual pride. The soul is tempted to place too high an estimate on its spiritual condition. Then imagines it is greatly inspired and taught of God, and steps out feeling divinely commissioned, when in truth it has simply abandoned itself to the dictates of its own fancies. And you will hear it say, “The Lord told me,” “The Lord showed me,” “The Lord revealed to me such and such,” and speak far more confidently than the real, humble, holy, inspired saint of God. Be sure of your impressions, and test them in candor before God, by the Word and the light of the Spirit, and God in mercy will make it plain beyond the clamor of circumstances or the contradiction of devils.
False spirit-leading and self-indulgent impressions have been the fanaticism of the ages. And this fatal delusion that begins in the little brook, deepens and widens to a mighty river, until it has built inquisition, driven stakes and burned its millions, because it takes its own fancies and imaginations for the leadings of the Holy Ghost, and as the result of that fact, it feels divinely commissioned to destroy everything that does not come within subjection to its seductive, destructive claim.”
This article will be followed by others showing the manifestation and fruits of this spirit and exposing some of the delusions of the devil.
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DISCERNMENT.
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The time is upon us when the church of God is being brought back to its primitive state as in the morning, with all its glory, and all its precious gifts of the Spirit. Praise God! And the time is also here when the Lord said we must “separate the precious from the vile,” “the good from the bad,” “the wheat from the tares,” the long looked-for time when the Lord would send forth his angels with the great sound of a Trumpet, to gather his elect from the four winds.
Now this is our commission, and may God help us to be true to it, and understand how to make the real separation. This gift is in the church; namely, the gift of discernment. 1 Cor. 12:10.
And the Lord said, “Then shall ye return and discern between the righteous and wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.” Mal. 3:18. This shows that if God’s ministers will walk close enough to him, he will by this method show them who is right and who is wrong, and thereby give them a better knowledge of how to make a sure separation. Bless the dear Lord!
Now we read again in Heb. 5:12- 14: “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again, which be the first principles of the oracles of God. * * * But strong meat belongeth to them of full age [that is, sanctified], even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” Here it can be plainly seen that those that run and have not been sent, are doing more harm than good, and ought to be taught again. Again the Word says, “He that is spiritual judgeth [margin discerneth] all things.”
May God help the spiritual ones to discern the evil ones, and use the “sword,” and in wisdom compel them to get right, or cut them off in their sins. Amen.
C. O. Dodge.
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HEAR THE TRUTH.
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First, we wish to consider what condition we must be in to hear to the saving of the soul.
“Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruit of his creatures.” — Jas. 1:8.
The sinner sees his lost condition by the Word, receives enough light to come to God through our Lord Jesus Christ and receive forgiveness of his sins. Begotten of the Father, becomes an heir of God, and joint heir with Jesus Christ the righteous. Then God’s word becomes our spiritual food. For “it is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but by [a part of? No.] every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”
“Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distill as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass.” — Deut. 32:1, 2.
“It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? Neither is it beyond the sea, that thou shouldst say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it? But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it.” — Deut. 30:12-14.
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments; for length of days, and long life, and peace shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; bind them about thy neck, write them upon the table of thine heart: so shall thou find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.” — Prov. 3:1-5.
The willing and the obedient shall eat the good of the land. Not only willing to hear, but receive the Word into our heart. To do, or live in obedience, not to a part of God’s will, but the whole of it, neither adding unto, or taking from his word.
“My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth and shall assure our hearts before him.” — 1 Jno. 3:18, 19.
Many, many people to day try to assure their hearts that they love God, and yet do not his commandments. To such Jesus says, “If a man love me, he will keep my words; and my Father will love him. and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings.” — Jno. 14:23, 24.
I pray God to awaken professors to this truth. “For not every one that sayeth, Lord, Lord, shall enter in, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”
Ezekiel speaks of this class who hear the truth and do not follow it.
“And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as my people, and they hear thy words, but their will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart goeth after their covetousness.” — Ezek. 33:31.
Dear reader, lay aside all prejudice, if you entertain any, and think candidly, “Do I measure up to the truth?” For by it we all shall be judged in the last day. The Psalmist says, Holiness becometh thine house, O Lord, forever; and again, thine eye is upon the truth. We have no promise that God will save us upon our sincerity of what we believe; if it is overthrown by the word of God.
I quote from Amanda Smith, in March number of THE REVIVALIST; speaking of that paper, she says: “Lord bless you, and make your paper a blessing to humanity on the line of practical common sense, holiness, clear cut, without mixing it up with second coming, or faith healing, or any of the sugar-coated themes. Lord help us to keep to the old landmarks. Amen.”
Bible holiness contains the whole truth; it is impossible to preach, or possess it without accepting it all.
“Search the scriptures, far in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me,” Jesus.
Is it testifying of Jesus to speak lightly of his word and call any of it sugar-coated popular themes? When he said, “Now learn a parable of the fig tree; when his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh; so likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.” — Matt. 24:32, 33. And in regard to divine healing of our bodies by faith in his word; we receive it in the atonement. Hence we cannot take it out, except we take from his word.
“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter. Fear God, and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil,” — Eccl. 12:13, 14.
Mary Heldenbrand.
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QUESTIONS ANSWERED.
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- Was the Bible destroyed from the earth, except as preserved by Free Mesons? If so, when? and from what history do you find it?
- Is there any authentic history to prove that John the Baptist was a Mason? If so, what history?
- If the penalty for sin was endless misery, how could Christ be a ransom without suffering endless misery?
J. R.
Ans. to 1st and 2d. No. Free Masons have never preserved the Bible, because Free Masonry did not have its origin until the great dangers through which the Bible continued in the dark ages, were past. The falsity of the claim that John the Baptist was a Mason is clearly seen, when we see the true date of the founding of that God-dishonoring society. Masons presumptuously date their origin at the budding of Solomon’s temple. But this is only to justify their presumed boast of the right to set aside the political powers on the ground of antiqueness. Hiram Abdi, one of the presumed founders of Masonry, is a fictitious character. There is no mention of such a man by any historian, sacred or profane.
The true date of the origin and founder is given by the historian as follows:
“The history of Free Masonry has been overlaid with fiction and absurdity, partly from an exaggerated estimate of its importance in the development of architecture, and partly from a wish to connect Mediaeval Masonry with the institution that passes under the same name in the present day. Modern (or so- called speculative) Free Masonry is an innocent mystification unconnected either with the building craft or with architecture. It is of British origin, and dates from the seventeenth century. * * * Its real founders were Elias Ashmole, and some of his literary friends who amused themselves by devising a set of symbols,” etc. INTERNATIONAL CYCLOPEDIA, Vol. 9, p. 566. Same Cyclopedia, Vol. 1, page 793, says this same Elias Ashmole was an astrologer, born 1617, died 1692.
Ans. to 3d. The secret lies in the Savior’s infinity, and his spotless innocence. If he were a finite being he should have to suffer endless misery to pay the penalty for one individual. But as he is an infinite Savior he can pay the penalty of eternal punishment for an infinite number of finite beings in an instant.
W. G. Schell.
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News from the Field.
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Emerado. N. Dak., April 1.
Dear Brethren and Trumpet Readers: I feel the dear Lord would have me write a few lines to the Trumpet. I am glad I can report victory in Jesus’ name. God is at work in Dacota. The assembly meeting closed March 29 with great victory for the church of God. Some of the saints from Arthur and from Grand Forks came and God gave us a precious time in the Lord. The camp made great advancement in meekness and humility. Saturday, March 28, the saints gathered at Bro. C. H. Haverland’s and had an ordinance service, in which forty-three
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happy saints took part. Several were absent on account of the rain and mud. God has a little band of saints in Dakota. There are over sixty that have fled out of Babylon, and came home to Zion. The Lord willing there will be two or three camp meetings here this summer. We are praying God to send a German preacher in here or save one out for there are great many Germans here, and they are receiving the truth. God has saved a Scandinavian minister out of the Luthern sect. He is at work among his people. Bro. Oslen is an earnest man and we believe God will use him to his glory. Dear readers, pray for the work in Dakota, and in the city of Grand Forks. Address us at Emerado, N. Dak. Yours in the one body, saved, sanctified and kept,
Geo. W. Bailey and Co.
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New Pittsburg, Ind., April 2.
Dear Saints of God: God is still blessing and honoring his word. Since we last reported, we first held a meeting of a few days at Linkville, Ind. It was a success in the way of publishing the present truth, there being a good congregation of attentive hearers present every evening, and anxious to receive tracts and papers. We were happy to meet and form the acquaintance of Bro. and Sister Peacock and others at that place. May God ever bless them for their kindness.
From there, the 3rd of March, we went to Grover Hill, Ohio, and commenced a meeting in the name of Jesus. We were re-inforced there by the coming of our dear wife, and Sister Ettie Jessup. The meeting lasted sixteen days, during which the power of God was manifest in preaching the word and saving a few souls. The meeting commenced in a hall; but the hall being insufficient the Disciple sect opened up their house for us which gave us room and comfortable seats, for which we were very thankful.
From here we went to Pleasant Mills, Ind., held a few meetings with success. Four consecrations. Meeting closing the 29th; we took train the next morning for home, meeting our dear children again after being absent for ten weeks. We are ready to go wherever the Lord shall lead. Yours in Jesus,
H. C. Wickersham and Co.
Address New Pittsburg, Ind.
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Chicago, Ill., Mar. 30.
Beloved Brethren in Christ: The dear Lord is so good to us, and also is blessing the German work here so wonderfully in this part of the city; and O, how Satan is raging! I cannot tell you, but probably some that have been here have somewhat of an idea of what a great battle we are in here with the devil, who has taken possession of quite a number of those that wanted to take a stand for God. He being enraged about it, got a hold of their body by tormenting and jerking them. But praise the Lord, at last he had to let them go, for we had a stronger one who was fighting the battle for us, who came to destroy the works of the devil; and who also gave his servants power over all unclean spirits to cast them out, and to heal all manner of diseases. Glory to God! This has not been taken back by him, but his word standeth forever. He is also revealing his power with us and so confirming his word almost daily by stretching forth his hand to heal, and casting devils out of many.
Praise the Lord for the great victory that he has given us the last few weeks over the enemy! And we just mean to go right on in the battle and not rest a minute. If he is with us who can be against us? Pray for us and especially for the German work here, that God may ever give us strength and boldness in the work which he has called us to and that he also may send forth more laborers into his vineyard, for surely the harvest is great, but few are the laborers.
We have removed now to the new place the Lord has given us, at 280 W. Division St., which will be our address. Yours in Christ,
Otto Nimz.
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Aurora, Mo.
Dear Trumpet Readers: We can testify that the Lord is still saving and blessing us in his service. To him be all the glory! We have Brother up a mission in this place. Brother and Sister Paddock and Sister Ewell are all helping in the work. We have rented a two-story building, 30×60, all in one room below that we use for meetings, and three rooms above, where we live. We have room to take care of a good many people that might come from a distance as soon as the Lord furnishes bedding and furniture to fill the room we have. We are praying God to furnish us with such things as he sees we need, so we can take care of all that might come from a distance to attend the meetings. We have two regular meetings a day through the week at 3 and 7.30 P. M. Sunday school 9.30 and meeting 11 a. m., and meeting 7.30 P. M. All lovers of truth are invited to attend these meetings. Now dear ones, we need your prayers that God may break down all the walls and let his truth reach honest souls. That God may manifest himself in healing the sick and casting out devils, which he has been doing. To him be all the glory! We invite all those that are sick, either in soul or body to come and seek the favor of God.
The mission is situated on McNatt Ave., between the Frisco, and G. & M. R. R., about 150 yards from the Frisco depot and 100 yards from the G. & M. depot. We would like for all workers when convenient to stop with us, and any one led of the Lord to come and help in this work, let them do so. We still can use tracts and papers to the glory of God. Your brother saved,
W. M. Wilson.
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Pellston, Mich., Mar. 31.
I do praise the dear Lord this morning for all his goodness and mercy to me. Praise his name forever! He has lead me through deep waters and brought me out of great trials, and I can say with the Psalmist, surely his goodness and mercy have followed me all the days of my life. I feel that the Lord is giving me a deeper settling down upon his word than ever before, and teaching me the lesson of trust. I am fully trusting my all in his hands, and I realize he is working in me to will and to do of his own good pleasure, and I will by his grace walk in all the light he sheds on my pathway.
We have just returned from Adalaska where we held a four weeks meeting to the glory of God. Several precious souls were saved from the bondage of sin, some from strong drink and other evils; among the number who were saved was a son of dear Sister Martin’s, and his wife, also her son-in-law. She has been praying for them for many years, and the Lord has at last rewarded her importunity. Quite a number also who were bound up in the Anti-Ordinance Quaker sect have stepped out, walking in the light, and are willing to follow Jesus down into the water. We left some precious souls under conviction, and pray God to lead them out into all the light very soon. We would not have come away so soon, but had to make a journey of fifty miles by team, so we took advantage of our last sleighing as the roads are very bad when broken up. The Lord was with us and wonderfully manifested his power in delivering his truth to the people and witnessing it to their hearts. We felt that every message came down fresh from the throne.
This is a new country but there is a great opening every where for the truth, and the people seem hungry for the right way. They desire a grove meeting there the coming summer. These people are fifty miles from any of the other saints and they need our prayers.
All the saved ones at Bliss are standing firm for God; we expect to be with them again on the coming Sunday. Pray for us that we may be used of God to his glory and be kept doing his will. Yours in his love,
Allie R. Fisher.
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TESTIMONIES.
“Thy Testimonies are Wonderful.” – Psa. 119:129
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Bellamy, Mo.
Dear Saints of God: This morning finds me still trusting in Jesus. He is all in all to me. I have not written my testimony for a long time. But praise God I have not ceased to tell it to others. I do feel this morning he is the “mountain that breaketh the wave.” I have not been in meeting much now for sometime, but I expect to labor more in the future. Yours in Christ,
R. F. Rapp.
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Saints’ Home, Wash.
Dear Saints of God: We are glad to report victory for Jesus in every battle. Praise the name of our Captain, who never was known to lose a battle! We are not ignorant of many of the devices of the devil; but by faith and obedience, and in the name of Jesus, we are more than conquerors; for we do know he that is in us is greater than he that is in the world. God is wonderfully supplying all of our needs both temporal and spiritual. And has supplied the school with two Holy Ghost teachers, and the Spring term of school is going on with forty scholars in attendance, and not a feeble one amongst them in either soul or body. To God be all the praise and glory. The good work is going on and souls are being saved. Even the weary wayside traveller and stranger is drawn by the Spirit to the Home and are saved from a life of sin and made go on their way with new songs in their mouths, even praises unto our God. My testimony is I am saved, and sanctified wholly by a second definite work of grace, and healed both soul and body, and kept each day by the power of God and praising his name for salvation Your brother all on the altar to do the whole will of God,
S. T. King.
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38 Northbrook St., Liverpool, Eng.
Dear Trumpet Readers: This morning while praising God for his mighty healing power, felt reproved that I had not testified to the world as I should for the wonderful way he has healed all our diseases as a family for the past four years, and we have never yet found him to fail after we have learned the lessons he has intended each trial to teach us. When first I heard the gospel preached in its purity God shewed me he could heal my body, although I had been a great sufferer for many years caused, I believe, at first from a fall which injured my spine, and brought on inward misplacement, with a complication of diseases in its train. I had been in the hospital under the care of the best physicians also the best doctors we could afford in our home, lying many weary months together, undergoing operations until my nerves were shattered and natural sleep almost destroyed through narcotics given to allay pain. We tried everything within our means, and like the woman of the Bible, we spent all our money but we found no good till we found it in the Savior. Hallelujah! Praise his precious name! When I came to him he completely healed me, although my friends at first would not believe (thought I was going wrong in my mind) and my doctor warned me and tried to frighten me when I told him I had removed all medical appliances and ceased taking medicine and put my trust alone in God. He said it was erroneous to teach such a doctrine that one in my condition could ever be cured without medical aid. But as time went on my friends were all obliged to own that God had done a wonderful work for me, and now for these four years we have not paid out one shilling for doctors or medicine of any kind, for myself or family. He has healed our children many times. At camp meeting our baby Rupert was healed of a double rupture. When first the rupture showed itself I became very anxious and fretful, thus taking the case out of God’s hands. And when looking earnestly to God he showed me my baby was not consecrated; but as I renewed my consecration and let God’s will come first, he gave me the witness that he would heal him. And as we obeyed his word and God’s messengers laid on hands in the name of Jesus God did the work; and although he was delicate in body, God did a complete work, although our faith was tested for awhile with slight symptoms of the rupture. As we trusted and rested on God’s word they all disappeared, and now he is strong and well in every limb. Praise the Lord!
God has also healed my husband, and only last night our boy eleven years of age was suddenly taken with croup, and as he could scarcely breathe and we were far away from any elders we remembered the promise in Mat. 18:19, and lifted our hearts to God. In a very few minutes God answered and broke up the stoppage in the throat. Praise his name! We give him all the glory, and feel it such a happy privilege to use the money once spent on doctors and medicine to spread this glorious gospel of the kingdom, and God has been shewing us lately the necessity of denying ourselves of luxuries in every form that we may be enabled to do a little for him who has done so much for us. More than all I praise him for full salvation and ask all the saints to pray for me that I may learn more of the real humility of Jesus and ever show by my life my love to him. Your sister in Jesus,
K. Croasdell.
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OBITUARIES.
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WOLFE. — Simon Wolfe was born in Montgomery Co., Ohio, July 4, 1830; died Feb. 26 1896, at his home near Humboldt, Kansas. Was confined to his bed only six days, which time was mostly spent with intense suffering. He was converted at an early age and lived up to all the light he had. Seven years ago he first heard the glorious evening light preached which he shortly afterwards embraced and enjoyed for a season; afterwards through the devices of Satan was led away from God into deception and remained in this condition until the last few days of his life, when God in his mercy wonderfully delivered and saved his soul from out of the hands of the enemy, and gave him a clear witness of his acceptance with him. After which time he was in close communion with God, and realized much help and strength to endure his suffering with patience. Some of his last words were, “Dear Jesus, I’ll soon be with you.” “Oh! this world is not worth living for.” “I am now on the border land.” His last request to his loved ones was, that they all be saved in Jesus and meet him in heaven. He leaves a wife, ten living children and sixteen grand children to mourn his loss.
V. L. Arms.
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Aurora, Mo.
WILSON. — Phebe Pairlee Wilson [maiden name Martin] was born in McMinn Co., Tenn. July 13, 1851. Died April 1, 1896; aged forty- four years, eight months, seventeen days. We were married Feb. 29, 1868. We same to Missouri seventeen years ago and lived about five years at Dadeville; from there to Wright Co., where we remained till Sept. 1, 1895. From that time since we have lived from place to place holding meeting. She came out in the evening light nearly seven years ago, and seemed to have a good experience. But during her sickness she confessed that she had not lived as she should have lived. But she testified that God forgave her, and that she was ready to go. She lived twelve days after she had made her peace with God and prepared herself to go. A few minutes before she expired the last words she ever said were that she was going home to heaven and to the arms of Jesus. And at the very last she raised one hand for a time toward heaven in token of going home. We had the real witness from God she was going to rest.
Her funeral was preached by Sister Ewell in the Mission hall were, and her body laid away in the city cemetery to await the resurection morning. She leaves six children behind, and three have gone on before. All of the children are saved but one. May this be the means of bringing her back to her Father’s house.
Dear ones, I want your prayers. It seems if it were not for the grace of God I could not bear it. But I do know that my God does all things well, and I do praise God for all his providence, for I do realize it is for my good. I do know it means something to keep our eyes fixed on one that can bear all our burdens. To him be all the praise and glory. Your brother saved and kept.
W. M. Wilson.
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DIVINE HEALING.
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Does God heal Sinners?
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THE question is sometimes asked if it is right to anoint and pray for the healing of sinners in case of sickness? There are times when it is right to do so, and other times when it is not. The promises of the Lord are to those who will obey him. If a sinner will forsake his sins and turn unto the Lord he is a subject for the healing power to be manifest in him. If he is an opposer of the truth, or wants to be healed so as to go on serving the devil, he is not a fit subject for healing. If a sinner is too sick to have use of his mind, or power to give himself to God then the prayer of faith may be offered for both soul and body. But the Lord generally requires such a person as in olden times: “Go and sin no more lest a worse thing come upon thee.”
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A Wonderful case of Healing.
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Monterey, Mich.
I feel it to be the glory of God to tell what the Lord has been doing for me. He keeps me saved by his power and heals my body. Eight years ago I gave my heart to the Lord, and one year from that time the Lord saved me from a terrible death in a saw mill in La Grange Co., Ind. I was working in a mill belonging to Bro. Snow, and fell against the circle saw cutting my body terribly. Still I was saved from death and I give God all the glory.
Being thrown against the saw I fell with my back against the saw teeth which caught my clothes and drew me in the, saw cutting me from the back bone across the ribs on my left side next to my heart, cutting and tearing my flesh in a terrible manner. The only utterance I gave was, “Oh praise the Lord!” And succeeded in getting away from the saw, and was taken to the house. My wound was eight and one-half inches in length besides tearing the flesh from my arm. My heart could be seen beating plainly through between the ribs:
After I got to the house they cut loose what clothes were left on my body and wrapped a sheet around me and placed me in bed. They were all crying and thought my time on earth was near a close. I told them they should not cry for me for I was ready to meet my Lord. It seemed the Lord was surely done with me and my sufferings were great. Bro. Snow stood by my bedside until the Lord relieved me from pain. I gave myself all up to him and told the Lord I was willing to go or stay just as he willed. But if he wished me to stay I would do all to glorify him, if he would only release me of my pain and heal me. Praise his dear name, it was done in an instant. Bro. Snow saw the change and we gave God all the glory. The news spread all over the neighborhood that I was hurt in the mill, and people came in from all quarters to see me. Then was when the devil tried his scheme. He wanted to have a doctor to come and sow up the wound for me so the Lord would not get all the glory. I said no, the doctor was not needed for the Lord should have his own way. Some one sent for the doctor without letting me know it; and when he came into the room I said; “Well doctor, they sent for you any way, I am sorry they did for you came for nothing, for all is done that can be done only to dress the wound. The Lord has done his part and the brethren can dress it for me just as well as you can.” I did not want to undo what the Lord had done for me; the doctor would get the glory and not the Lord for I knew no earthly doctor could stop the pain even if he had been right there when it happened. And I would not have lived for him to get there, for it was four and a half miles from town. But permitted him to look at the wound and then he could tell just as big or small a story as he desired.
The Lord wonderfully blessed my soul; having victory over the devil it made him rage for a while and even threatened to arrest us for not having the doctor to dress and take care of the wound, but we placed the whole matter in the dear Lord’s hands and he had his own way. I was hurt between ten and eleven o’clock in the forenoon and it was not dressed until five in the afternoon. The brethren thought this to be a severe case to care for and I could hardly get them to dress it. It was done as I requested and the Lord did his part in healing it up nice and smooth, and I give him all the glory.
He also healed me of a rupture I received twelve years ago, causing me to be in great pain so I could not work. I wore a truss until four years ago he released me so it is completely well. One year ago last summer in answer to prayer the Lord healed me of pleurisy. And he has cured my family of sickness and I give him all the praise.
Now my dear reader, do not neglect so great a friend as the blessed Lord. He is the same Lord yesterday, to day and forever. He has promised to you and all that call upon his dear name in faith believing that he will save your soul and heal your diseases and make you every whit whole, so do not let the devil cheat you out of it. God will help you in all trials and temptations if you will trust him. Keep praying until you get the victory in your soul. Now is the day of salvation. Dear reader, if you are not saved stop not for a moment but come now and seek so great a salvation is my prayer. Your brother in Christ,
Charles M. Halstead.
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Bible vs Life Insurance.
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An exposition of the position the Life Insurance Companies take in pleading for their ungodly gains.
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ALSO A CITATION OF THE TRUE LIFE INSURANCE CO.
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Sent In defence of the pure gospel of Jesus Christ, and the upbuilding of righteousness.
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In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and his immutable promises, I set forth these evidences.
Forasmuch as the man who styles himself Rev. (?) T. DeWitt Talmage and others, have compromisingly advocated the theory of justification by life insurance in ungodly companies, who it can be proven are by the leadings of the devil carrying on such business on financial motives. Therefore I feel it my duty to expose such ungodliness and prove by the Bible that such work is wholly unscriptural.
Mr. Talmage is said to have said (Des Moines Life Association):
How a man with no surplus not estate, but still money enough to pay the premium on a life insurance policy, can refuse to do it, and then look his children in the face, is a mystery to me.
No wonder the Bible calls Mr. Talmage a dumb dog. (D. D.) Isa. 56:10. If he had been a Bible-living Christian he would have remembered the words of David, “I have not seen the righteous forsaken, or his seed begging bread.” — Psa. 37:25. “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.” — Mat. 6:34.
Again, says Dr. Talmage, the Bible favors the reserve fund.
“Let him appoint officers over the land and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.” — Gen. 41:31. These are the words of Joseph the president of the first life insurance company [what a lie!] that the world ever saw. Now said Joseph, let us take one-fifth of the corn crop of the seven prosperous years and keep as a provision for the seven in which there shall be no corn crop. The king took counsel and appointed Joseph because of his integrity and public spiritedness, as president of the undertaking. The farmers paid one-fifth of their income as a premium. In all the towns and cities of the land there were branch houses. The Great Egyptian Life Insurance Co., had millions of dollars as assets.
What a lie! Read the 41st chapter of Genesis, and you will find nothing is said about The Great Egyptian Life Ins. Co. anywhere in the chapter. The devil knows how to quote scripture even if he has to twist it to suit his notion. I do not say this to cast reflection on Dr. Talmage; but when a man: knowingly subverts the scriptures, and misquotes it to suit ungodly designs, I must deliver my soul by crying out against it. When a company has to resort to the Old Testament to prove the solidity of such ungodly motives, it is no wonder they resort to other devices to catch the unwary.
We do not live in a land of famine, because our Lord has delivered us OUT OF EGYPT, and we are in the land of Canaan. Praise the Lord! Heb. 3:16 to last; and 4:1-12.
Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that COVER WITH A COVERING, BUT NOT OF MY SPIRIT, THAT THEY MAY ADD SIN TO SIN: THAT WALK TO GO DOWN TO EGYPT, AND HAVE NOT ASKED AT MY MOUTH * * * TO TRUST IN THE SHADOW OF EGYPT.” — Isa. 3O:1, 2.
“All the remnant of Judah that are gone into the land of Egypt, to sojourn there, shall know whose word shall stand, MINE OR THEIRS.” — Isa. 44:28.
“WOE TO THEM THAT GO DOWN TO EGYPT FOR HELP, and stay on horses, and trust in chariots BECAUSE THEY ARE MANY, and in horseman BECAUSE THEY ARE VERY STRONG, but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the Lord!
Yet he also is wise, and will bring evil, and will not call back his words; but will arise against the house of evil-doers, and against the help of them that work iniquity.
Now THE EGYPTIANS ARE MEN, AND NOT GODS, and their horses [ways] are flesh and not spirit. When the Lord shall stretch out his hand, BOTH HE THAT HELPETH SHALL FALL, and HE THAT IS HOLPEN SHALL FALL DOWN, AND THEY ALL SHALL FAIL together.” — Isa. 31:1-3.
Now you Egyptian priests of life insurance, how does this suit you? Does this look as though you are justified in going into Egypt fur help? Can you advocate the Bible upholds life insurance when you know it condemns it?
“TRUST IN THE LORD and do good. So shalt thou dwell in the land, and VERILY THOU SHALT BE FED.” – Psa. 37:3.
Here God plainly says he will take care of his people. It is only the wicked that leaves his family penniless. Psa. 109:1-21. God never suffers his people to come to want or their children to famish. He has given them this promise: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED UNTO YOU.” — Mat. 6:33. All what? Whatever you need; food, drink and clothing. Verse 31, 32.
Why not trust in the Lord? “The Lord is my” shepherd; I SHALL NOT WANT.” — Psa. 23:1. “But MY GOD SHALL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEEDS.” — Phil. 4:19. “I may cause those that LOVE ME to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.” — Prov. 7:21. “God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that ye always having all sufficiency in all things.” — 2 Cor. 9:8.
It is only when men, women, or families forget God and his mercy, that they apply to the devil for aid. What fills almshouses, poor houses and ill-fame places? Godly people? No! The wicked dwell there. You never saw a person live and die in such a place without SIN being the cause of it. If we trust God we will never die in a poorhouse (I mean county house). God will take care of his people. Heb. 13:5, 6.
In perusing the advertisement of the Des Moines Life Association I read this statement:
You may go out of your office in good health; five minutes thence a steay shot, a runaway horse, a stroke of lightaing, a falling brick from a building under construction, collision on railroad or a broken bridge may land you into eternity. Think a moment! It this should happen to you, is your family provided for? The world is a cold and cheerless place for a widow and children who are penniless. Is there any danger of you leaving your wife and children in this condition? If so, delay not an hour. You may possibly be insurable to day; you may not be to morrow.
What a plea! Not once is a man pointed to the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. Not once is he told to flee from the wrath to come. Not once is he exhorted to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Oh no! Look at the case of Wm. Blood in the same advertisement. Because he failed to pay up all his dues, they reserved what he had originally paid (minus $10.00, which the agent paid). What benefit did Mrs. Blood get out of the transaction between the said association and her husband? Simply this: The association made about $10.00 clear; in which they cannot prove that any person was benefited by it, except the company themselves. Mrs. Blood lost $10.00 by the transaction. I understand this Mr. Blood was a preacher. If he was he got to dabbling in the devil’s business, and the devil came out ahead in the transaction.
I defy any person — Dr. Talmage excepted — to prove by God’s word that Life Insurance policies (man-made) are in line with Christian experience. I defy them to prove that any life insurance was given to Christ or any of the apostles. Did not Christ tell John to take care of his mother? Jno. 19:27. Here Christ did not leave any provision for his mother, except that she dwell with St. John. But, you say the Bible says, “If any provide not for his own, and especially those of his own house, he has denied the faith and is worse than an infidel.” — 1 Tim. 5:8. This I do not deny. But to apply to an insurance policy is ridiculous. In such a case what would be the case of those who are not able to keep up an insurance policy? May the God of wisdom open your blind eyes. God wants everybody to provide for his family (if he has one), but he does not ask a man to give some of his surplus to ungodly insurance companies, and run the risk of losing his soul and being buried in the potter’s field.
These companies will not resume business if there is not money in it TO THEM. The devil tries to exhort fraud in insurance companies, and when he cannot make that work, he resorts to sect religion and exacts money from the poor duped members in that way. My God, save people from such delusions is my prayer!
There is only one true Insurance Company, that the Bible upholds. We will examine the Word and see what it is.
THE PRINCE OF PEACE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY.
PRESIDENT of the company. — Jesus Christ. Isa. 9:6. Mat. 28:18.
POLICY. — Christ’s word. Jno. 12:48.
LIABILITIES. — Belief in Christ. John 11:25, 26.
ADMISSION FEE. — Confessing sins and forsaking them. 1 John 1:9. Isa. 55:7.
ASSETS. — Walking in the light. 1 John 1:7.
CANDIDATES FOR ADMISSION. — Whosoever will. Rev. 22:17.
Compare this with the devil’s insurance company.
THE DEVIL’S INSURANCE COMPANY.
PRESIDENT OF THE COMPANY. — The devil POLICY. — $3.25 per policy.
LIABILITIES — Examination by a physician who gets $1 00 extra out of your pocket.
ADMISSION FEE. — The whole amount you pay to the company through life.
ASSESSMENT — Same as above.
CANDIDATES FOR ADMISSION. — Ablebodied persons, in health, and not liable to accident.
Now which will you accept? That company which insures you eternal life, or that which never saved a soul from hell? Are you bound to rush blindly on and contend for that which is risk, instead to enrolling your name on the list of the Prince of Peace? Insure in that company which will give you an eternal life. God will take care of your family if you serve him instead of the devil.
Phil. R. Landon.
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“O that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
For he satisfieth the longing soul and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.” — Psa. 107:8, 9.
ADVANCEMENT.
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Confidence.
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“IN the fear of the Lord strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.” — Prov. 14:26. Confidence is a great means of advancement, and without it we will just flounder and slide around, and never make any true progress in our Christian experience. Too few have the strong confidence for a place of refuge. ‘The majority of the professors dwell in the “guess so,” and “hope so” regions. They profess to be saved but doubt it in their hearts.
Oh brethren! first of all, have it settled in your hearts that you are of God. You can never advance as long as your experience is crippled by the slightest doubt.
Confidence is especially needed when we endeavor to approach the throne with the prayer of faith. There are many who believe that “the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth much,” but a little doubt in their heart whether they are righteous, disqualifies them to offer the real effectual fervent prayer of faith. They have not the clear voice, of the Spirit of God bearing witness with their spirits, that they are the children of God.
But whence come these doubts in the heart? They have a cause for their existence somewhere. Search it out, and have it removed, and the doubt will disappear. John says, “Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.” If we, like our Brother John, have the approval of God upon our life, our prayers will prevail with God, and we will receive answers. But if our Christian life is dotted with occasional disapprovals of God’s word and Spirit upon little things in our character, our minds will be so haunted by these “little foxes,” that we can ever possess only a wavering faith. I believe that such is the true origin of nine-tenths of the doubts that bother the professors of Christianity. Unbelief in professors is generally not so much of a lack of confidence in the promises of God, as it is in their own righteousness.
What is there to hinder us from believing that God will hear our prayers, when we can pray like Hezekiah of old? “I beseech thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight.” — 2 Kings 20:3.
Or what doubt will harass our experience, or step between our heart and the Lord, when in prayer, if we have a testimony like that of righteous Enoch before he was translated, “that he pleased God?” Heb. 11:5.
All doubts that may assail such an experience, arc easily overcome by resisting them steadfastly in the faith of Christ; because they are mere suggestions of the evil one. But such doubts as are but outgrowths of some defect in our experience, or character, can never be conquered by a mere resistance, because they are a part of our experience, and properly belong to us, until the cause is removed.
The cause is not always something we are doing. It is often a leanness that comes from a neglect of duties, in such a case one can consecrate and reconsecrate, resist the devil, and try to claim the victory be faith, but no settled experience can be obtained until we are willing to adopt the Bible standard of diligence and devotion.
“And hereby we do know him if we keep his command meats. — 1 Jno. 2:3.
“And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward Cod.” — 1 Jno. 3:19-21.
“Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.” — Heb. 10:35.
“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.” — Heb. 3:14.