1 February 1894, Volume 14, Number 5.

An Eternal Home.

_____

Did you ever think, poor sinner,
Of the ages yet to come
In the years of long eternity
That shall be your endless home?
Where your soul will be in torment
In the flames of hellish dire,
With the devil and his kingdom,
In that lake that burns with fire.

Did you ever, for a moment,
Think about your future home,
Where in regions dark and dismal
Through all ages you must roam?
Where there’s weeping and there’s wailing
And gnashing of the teeth,
There you’ll suffer through eternity
In those regions far beneath.

Did you ever think, poor sinner,
Of that blissful home above,
Where the Father and the angels
Dwell within those realms of love?
Where no sorrow or no sadness
Ever comes to blight the way,
But ’tis everlasting happiness
In that land of perfect day.

Did you ever, for a moment,
Think that home’s prepared for you,
If you’ll only seek the Savior
And to him be ever true?
Then how blest will be the ending
When you lay life’s burden down,
And go home to dwell with Jesus,
And to wear a starry crown.

By N. H. Byrum.

__________

FASTING AND PRAYER.

_____

IN reading the word of God we find some great reasons why the children of God should give themselves to fasting and prayer. At one time a father brought to Jesus his son which had a dumb spirit, and he said, I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out and they could not; and after Jesus had cast him out, his disciples asked him, Why could not we cast him out? Then Jesus tells them, This kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting. — Mark 9:27-29. Here we see clearly that in fasting and prayer, there is power; and if all of God’s children that are always praying to God for more power, would humble themselves in much fasting and prayer to God, they would realize in their souls that he will lift you up, — James 4:8, and will reward you openly. See Matt. 6:16-18. At one time when the children of Israel went out into battle against the children of Benjamin, they were overcome; so the next day they went up before the Lord and wept, and the Lord told them to go up again; and so they went the second day, but again the children of Benjamin overcame them and destroyed eighteen thousand men. Then all the children of Israel and all the people went to the house of the Lord and spent that day in fasting, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord. Now when the people got in earnest about the matter, the Lord told them to go the next day again, and he would give the children of Benjamin into their hands, and so they went again, and the Lord did according to his sayings and they fought a mighty battle with the help of God. — Judges 20:12-48.

Now here we see that the children of Israel were overcome the first two days by their enemies and many were destroyed, but after the people got down before the Lord in earnest with fasting and prayer, the Lord gave their enemies into their hands. Another time the enemies of Judah came to battle against them, and some told the king of Judah, There cometh a great multitude against thee; and then the king proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah, and the people came together and they stood before the Lord, even their wives and children, and called on the Lord, and what was the answer of the Lord? He said, Be not afraid of the great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s; ye shall not need to fight in this battle, set yourselves, stand ye still and see the salvation of the Lord with you. — 2 Chron. 20:1-27. Here we see again when the children of Judah humbled themselves before God in fasting and prayer, the Lord heard them and fought the battle for them.

And now in this great battle which the children of God have to fight against the enemy of souls, oh, how much do we need the power of God fighting for us, and how much should the children of God humble themselves before God in fasting and prayer! In doing this we will have the same answer of God, Stand ye still and see the salvation of the Lord. Now dear ones, are we doing our duty along on this line? Or are we like some which I heard say after God’s children were requested to spend a day in fasting and prayer in behalf of the cause of Christ, “I don’t feel like fasting to day?” and they professed to be saints of God; and even those that claimed of God to be called of God to preach do not feel like spending a day in united fasting and prayer. Let us remember Jesus says, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. — Matt. 16:24. Now Jesus left his heavenly glory and came on this earth, suffered and died for us that we might live, and then tells us to deny ourselves and follow him. Some claim to be followers of Jesus and then don’t feel like denying ourselves for one day, the comforts of this life, and spend the same in fasting and prayer. Now if we claim to be wholly given up to the Lord, ready to do anything for his cause, and then are asked to spend a day in fasting and prayer for the cause of Christ and the salvation of souls, and we say, I don’t feel like it, are we then wholly given up to do everything? In both of the above scriptures we read that all the people came together and fasted and called upon the Lord, and the Lord heard them and they went on to victory, and they went out singing and praising the Lord because the Lord had promised them that he would fight for them.

Oh! let us remember, in commencing the battle against Satan and his power, to humble ourselves before the Lord, and then we can go on singing and praising God, for he will fight for us. Glory to his name! According to the word of God we understand the evening light should be as the morning light, and in reading the word of God we find that the children of God in that time continued with one accord in prayer and supplication. See Acts 1:12-14; Acts 2:41-47. And many signs were done by the apostles, and the work of God went on and many were saved. And how glorious it is to read about those signs and wonders which the Lord wrought through his humble children. Thank God we have the promise that the evening shall be as the morning and that the signs shall follow them that believe, Mark 16:17, and the more the children of God humble themselves before God, the sooner we will see the whole glory of the morning light break forth. Oh! may the Lord help in the beginning of the new year that his children spend much time in fasting and prayer before God, and if we humble ourselves before him he can use us more and more to his glory. I can say that the Lord has taught me some precious lessons on this line, and that it is blessed to the soul to spend a day in fasting and prayer. Jesus says that man shall not live by bread alone. — Matt. 4:4. Now if you don’t feel like spending a day or more in fasting and prayer, then just deny yourself a little on this line and you will find out that the Lord blesses you for it and your soul will grow fat by it. Now in 2 Cor. 6:4, 5 and 11:27 there the apostle Paul speaks a word to those in the ministry. He speaks of approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings. And in spending time in fasting and prayer we will find that our souls as well as the work of the Lord will prosper, and then we can tell others about the blessings that there are in it. But dear brethren in the field, how can we expect others to deny themselves and spend time in fasting and prayer, if we ourselves do not so? or how can a minister of God teach others on the line of self denial if he himself does not practice it? Now Paul taught fasting and prayer, 1 Cor. 7:5, and practiced it himself, see Acts 14:23; 2 Cor. 11:27, and the power of God was with him. Now may the dear Jesus help all his children to deny themselves a little on this line, and I know by experience the Lord will bless us, and our souls will grow fat on the good things of God, and the Lord can use us more to his glory, and the signs will follow, and he will lead his little ones in the battle from victory to victory. Hallelujah to Jesus! I remain your humble brother in Jesus,

Geo. Vielguth.

__________

THE CHURCH.

_____

“And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hall shall not prevail against it.” Matt. 18:18.

WHAT IS THE CHURCH?

ANS. “And hath put all things under his [Christ’s] feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all.” Eph. 1:22, 23.

We have a perfect definition of the church in the above text, viz., Christ’s body. In Colossians 1:24, he says: “For his [Christ’s] body’s sake which is the church.” The words church and body in the above texts are perfect synonyms, therefore the definition is correct. The body is the church, and the church is the body.

WHAT IS THE BODY OF CHRIST?

A. “Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” 1 Cor. 12:27. Unto whom was the apostle writing when he said, “Ye are the body of Christ”?

A. “Paul called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ, through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints [not sinners], with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours.” 1 Cor. 1:1, 2.

Thus far, we have learned that the body of Christ and the church are identical; and that the “church of God at Corinth, and all that in every place call on the name of the Lord,” are the parties to whom this epistle was written; hence, we (Christians) are included with the church at Corinth. Thus, you can see that men and women who are saved from sin, compose the church of the Bible. This institution is not such as will admit sinners and hypocrites of all kinds unless they will forsake their evil propensities. See Isa. 55:7-9. This church is of divine origin, for Christ says in the text, “I will build my church.” It is his own property. He built it exclusively for himself and not for man, hence men have nothing to do with running it. It is purely a theocracy of God. The infallible, immutable, omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent God is the only one capable of governing such an institution. If men were to run God’s church, they would have it full of sinners and hypocrites as the sects are to day. Sects are human and this is why the devil can get into them, but God’s church is divine and this is why the devil cannot get into it. Therefore, he has inspired men (doubtless in sincerity) to build institutions into which he can enter. The next thing to find out is,

HOW MANY BODIES HAS CHRIST?

A. When we find out how many bodies Christ has, then we shall know how many churches he has; for “the body is the church,” Paul says. “For as we have many members in [our] one [physical] body, and all members have not the same office; so we, [Christians] being many, are one body, in Christ, and every one members one of another.” Rom. 12:4, 5.

In the above texts, the church is represented by the physical body. Oh, what a beautiful picture! Look at the unity of the body! See what harmony, fellowship and perfect oneness. A picture of the church. There could not be a more complete body [church] than Christ’s, because it is divinely organized. Notice the nervous system of the literal body, how beautifully constructed! This metaphorically shows the divine fellowship and perceptiveness of God’s church. “For as the [literal] body is one, and hath many members, [arms, ears, eyes, feet, etc.] and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ.” 1 Cor. 12:12. “But now are they many members, yet but one body.” 1 Cor. 12:20.

“There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling.” Eph. 4:4. Preachers and people say there are many bodies. Facts say so too, for the world is full of rival bodies. Notwithstanding this, the Bible says “there is one body in Christ.” The phrase “in Christ,” explains the matter. All these other bodies are in the world, but outside of Christ. Paul did not say there should be one body in the world, but contrariwise, “one body in Christ” and many in the world. This Bible fact upsets all the creeds of men. We stand on the Bible and refute all these diversified bodies and prove them to have originated with men, and that God forbids them, — every one, and has nothing to do with sects, but the people who are his in them.

The epistle to the Corinthians was written A. D. 59, which is twenty-six years after Christ had fully organized his church. Now if the church could exist twenty-six years in oneness, [see Acts 4:31, 32; 2:46, 47.] without men imposing their sects [see 1 Cor. 12:25; 2 Pet. 2:1-3; Rom. 16: 17, 18; Tit. 3:10.] upon the people of God, she can exist and is complete to day outside of them all. See Col. 2:10. I have heard the superstitious theory advanced, that “the one body referred to, is Christ’s body, but the various denominations are members of his body,” etc. Shame on the ignorance of blind D. D’s. What absurdity and willful wresting the scripture! Christ would be a thief, a liar, a blasphemer, a drunkard, [Gal. 5:19-21] a murderer [see I John 3:15] a tobacco user [see Zech. 9:7] if we were to admit the above statement to be true, for there are people in sectism who are guilty of all the vices I have mentioned. “Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.” — [“pit” — EMPHATIC] Matt. 15:14. Read the texts referred to.

HOW DO WE GET INTO THE CHURCH?

A. “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.

The Spirit of God is the active agent that puts us into Christ. “For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.” Eph. 2:18.

Not through the peacher, but through Him we get into God’s church. Through the preacher you can only get into a sect. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Col. 3:15.

Paul says that God calls into one body, not two. If you are a Christian, God has called you into the body of which Paul speaks; but if you are in a sect also, you are in two bodies: by God’s spirit you was put into the church, and by the preacher put into a sect. Hence you see you are in one place [sect] where God never put you. Now the Lord commands you to get out of all such places. See Rev. 18:4-9; Jno. 10:27; 2 Cor. 6:14-18. Every honest individual will investigate this matter with ah unprejudiced heart; and though the truth of the Bible upsets his former teaching, he will let it go and be taught by the word of God. Honest people can only remain honest by walking in the light; and such can only remain in sectism till they hear the true church preached and proven by the Bible.

“I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” Jno. 10:9. Christ opens the door of his church, and preachers open the doors of the institutions. Preachers acknowledge they take sinners into their sects, while Christ positively says, “if they enter into his church they shall be saved.” “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” Rev. 3:7, 8. Preachers say they open the door, etc. God says, “No man openeth,” and “no man shutteth.” Let it be understood that this cannot be done by man; it is the work of God, and it is not left on record anywhere in the Bible where God gave man such a responsible position. Sect doors can be opened by preachers, but “the church” door can not.

HOW DO WE GET OUT OF THE CHURCH?

A. “And the Lord said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.” Ex. 32:33.

When a sinner repents and God pardons him, He writes his name in the book of life. If he sins God blots it out of the book. We do not have to convert the meeting house into a court room; put the preacher in for judge; convict and prove the individual guilty and turn him out. — Out of what? Out of the sect of course, for just as soon as he perpetrated evil in his heart, [see James 1:15] he sinned himself out of God’s church. See Matt. 5:27, 28.

“I am the vine, ye [Christians] are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: tor without me ye can do nothing.” “If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered.” Jno. 15:5, 6. Christ is the vine, men are branches, instead of denominations being branches. If sect “churches” were branches of Christ he would be full of sinners and hypocrites. I have heard preachers say, “There is good and bad in all churches.” This statement is true of all sects, but it is not true of God’s church; — never was, never can be a sinner in it. See Jno. 10:9. Every sinner is on the outside of the divine church, whether professor or non-professor; and though sect “churches tolerate such as Christians, and bolster them up simply because they have “joined church” and pay the preacher, God looks upon them as sinners and they will be thus treated in the day of judgment. See Matt. 25:31-46.

WHAT IS HER FOUNDATION?

“And I say 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.

Peter is from the Greek word Petros, signifying a stone. Peter is one of the foundation stones upon which Christ built his church. “According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master- builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.” 1 Cor. 3:10. “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Eph. 2:20-22. We with Peter, are stones in Christ’s church, [see 1 Pet. 2:5] but Christ is the “chief corner stone.” If Christ’s church is founded upon “The Rock,” all these organisms of men are surely built upon the sand. See Matt. 7:21-27.

Another proof that men’s churches cannot be the church, nor any part of it, is that the church includes every Christian in heaven and on earth; and there is not a sect in existence that has every Christian in it. But a large per cent of real Bible Christians are outside of all the schisms of men: many of whom never have belonged to any sect. If there was a sect on earth that had every child of God in it, that would be ample proof that it was the church of the Bible; but not one such sect exists. The world is full of rival parties, all of which are anti-church, schismatic and heretical. See Rom. 16:17, 18; Titus 3:10: 2 Pet. 2:1-3: 1 Cor. 1:10-13. Carnality is the cause of sectism, [see 1 Cor. 3:1-3] and sanctification is the cure. [See Heb. 13:12; 10:14, 15; 2:11; Jno. 17 chap.]

(To be continued?)

==========

Augusta, Ga.

To the Trumpet Readers: I feel led to write my testimony, that I am saved and sanctified, and walking in the evening light. Oh praise God for a full and free salvation! I do thank the Lord that he has organized his church in Augusta, and adds members to the same. Pray for me that I may be ever found at the Master’s feet. Your sister in Christ,

Carrie Clark.

_____

Tiff City, Mo.

Dear Trumpet Readers: I want to say to the glory of God that I am saved, ready to be revealed in the last time. Glory to God for his keeping power, which he bestows on his children when they obey him. Bless God, I know that his blood has been applied to my heart and has taken out all worldly conformities and pride, for which I give him all the glory. Your brother in Him,

M. T. Cruzan.

 

Page 2

THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.

__________

A WEEKLY HOLINESS JOURNAL.

__________

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

__________

PUBLISHED AT GRAND JUNCTION, MICH.

__________

D. S. WARNER, – Editor.

E. E. BYBUM, – Office Editor.

E. E. BYBUM and S. MICHELS, – Publishers.

__________

TERMS, $1.00 Per Year In Advance.

FREE TO THE POOR.

==========

Entered at the Post Office at Grand Junction, Van Buren Co., Mich.. as second class matter.

__________

NOTICE.

All business communications, moneys, &c. must be addressed to Gospel Trumpet, to insure credit; otherwise we will not be responsible.

__________

NOTICE.

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

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

__________

NOTICE.

How to Send Money. – Remit by Post Office Order or Postal Note. Where these cannot be procured, send by Express Order. Registered Letter or small amounts in stamps.

Change of Address. – Subscribers wishing their address changed, must be sure to give their former, as well as their new address.

Missing Papers. – It occasionally happens that numbers of our papers sent to our subscribers are lost or stolen in the mails. In case you do not receive yours when due, after waiting a sufficient length of time, write us a card, and we will gladly send one in place of the missing number.

When you write, be sure to give your full address, name, post-office, county and state.

Should there be a mistake at any time, write us at once, and we will gladly rectify the same.

Address all letters to Gospel Trumpet, Grand Junction, Mich.

==========

TRACTS AND BOOKS.

_____

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.

__________

Marriage and Divorce. A tract of 32 pages, giving the Inspired word of God on the subject. Price 5 cents.

__________

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.

__________

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.

__________

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.

__________

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.

__________

“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.

__________

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.

__________

What is the SouI? 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.

__________

The Bible Readings. Bible readings or references on about 100subjects. Price 75 cts. each.

__________

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.

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. 218 pages. Paper cover. 25 cts. Cloth, 75 cts.

ECHOES FROM GLORY. By B. E. Warren and D. S. Warner. Contains 232 beautiful ami triumphant songs, with primary instructions for beginners in vocal music. A great number of new songs, both words and music gem its pages, with a choice selection from other books and authors. It it especially adapted to Camp and Revival Meetings, Sunday Schools, and the home circle. Neatly bound in pasteboard cover 40 cts. Per dozen $1.00. D. S. Warner. Sixth st., (Floating Bethel). Pittsburg. Pa. B. E. Warren, Springfield. Ohio. Or this office.

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.

==========

60,000 TRACTS.

We now have sixty thousand tracts for free distribution which we put up in packages of

500 TRACTS FOR 60 CENTS

and in addition to this, we put in one BOY’S COMPANION, paper cover, free. It requires about one half this amount to pay postage, but we pay all mailing expenses.

Send in your orders and help to spread the Gospel. If you are not situated so as to distribute them yourself, supply some one who is called to that kind of work.

LIST OF MONEY LETTERS NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED.

__________

J. C. Barker, David V. Byers, Reuben Buchner. Mrs. S. E. Daugherty, Jas. A. Montgomery, Geo Miller, J. N. Howard, R. A. Songer.

==========

Requests for Prayer.

_____

I desire all the saints to pray for me on Feb. 12, that I may be cured of the tobacco habit.

R. F. Shyler.

Snyder, Ill.

__________

Chambersburgh, Pa.

Pray for Sister Susie Gilbert who is sorely afflicted with a complicated disease and her mind is affected. She has faith to be healed. Pray for her on Feb. 4.

Annie M. Deckhert.

__________

My desire is for the saints to pray Feb. 4, for God to retouch my body with his healing power and take away all the disease, symptoms, and effects, and he shall have all the praise and glory.

S. M. Zimmerman.

Pendleton, Ore.

__________

On Feb. 4, pray for my wife that she may be healed of a cough and other seriious afflictions; also for Sister Mary Rodgers who is lame from the effects of measels; and for Sister Mary Boutwell and husband.

Jno. L. Bernard.

Covington, La.

__________

I am nearly blind with scrofulous sore eyes and ask your prayers for their healing so that I may be able to take care of my dear little boy baby. Pray for me. Pray that my husband may be brought into the evening light. Faithfully your sister, saved by a second work of grace,

Mrs. Amy F. Rutledge.

California, Mo.

==========

Call for Meeting.

_____

Catawba, Clark Co., O.

Some true ministers are wanted to come and hold meetings at this place. Address

D. M. Russell.

__________

We desire a meeting soon, as we understand Bro. Palmer expects to hold a meeting at Payne, O. Antwerp is seven miles from Payne, on the Wabash R. R., and it is four miles to our place, Zion Chapel. Address

B. J. Fleck.

Antwerp, O.

__________

McConnellsburg, Pa.

My prayer is that God will open the way and direct some one to come here and preach the pure gospel. O may God hasten the time when the people of McConnellsburg will hear the gospel preached in its purity. The people are in much darkness and ignorance. May God hasten the time when many shall be delivered. Yours in the faith,

Lizzie Oyler.

__________

Dear Brethren: I would like to make a call for some fire-baptized preacher to come to this place to hunt out or fish out the real children of God. Let the fire test and reveal who will be for God alone. None but real consecrated and willing to be persecuted people for Christ’s sake need come. Come in the name and power of Jesus. Address

J. I. North.

Geneva, Adams Co., Ind.

==========

As we expect in a few days to transfer the names on our list to a new subscription book a number of names will be dropped from the list whose time has expired, and who failed to let us know whether they desired it continued or not. If you have not the money at present and want the paper, all you have to do is to drop us a card. If you are destitute of means, we will send it free.

__________

QUESTION.

_____

A dear brother writes asking us if a child of God could hold the office of Justice, City Marshal, or Constable.

We answer that a spiritual child of God would feel far less at home in one of these offices than a white fleeced sheep would in a filthy hogpen. Just think of a holy candidate for a crown in glory, becoming a candidate for an office which would throw him in company with filthy tobacco smokers and chewers, foul-mouthed lawyers, and profane sinners. But we will let the inspired apostle answer the question in 1 Cor. 5:9, 10 as correctly rendered in the Emphatic Diaglott. “In that letter I wrote to you not to be associated with fornicators in no wise with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous and extortioners, or idolaters, since indeed you are bound to come out from the world.” Again, “No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.” — 2 Tim. 2:4.

When Celsus argued that Christtians ought to undertake the duties of magistracy in their native country, Orrgen replied, “But we know that in every city we have another country, whose foundations are in the word of God, and we require it from those who are competent by their, talent and pious lives, to take upon themselves the offices requisite for the maintenance of order in the churches.”

While the scriptures and early records show that Christians taught and cheerfully practiced conformity to and support of civil, when it came to becoming officers in administering the affairs of civil government, they belonged to an heavenly country, and had nothing to do with running earthly administrations.

Says the historian Neander, “The Christians stood aloof and distinct from the state, as a priestly and spiritual race, and Christianity seemed able to influence civil life only in that manner which, it must be confessed. is the purest, by practically endeavoring to instill more and more of holy feeling into the citizens of the state.”

Of course Christians were the best men to administer justice: in governmental affairs; but it would so throw them in the company and mix them up with the society of the ungodly that spiritual death would follow.

__________

HOW TO DEED A HOUSE OF WORSHIP.

_____

Information has been given at different times in the past on this matter, but as new congregations are almost weekly being raised up, again the question comes. In answer we reply. First of all, never build a house for the worship of God in your community, and then be foolish enough to deed it to some foreign power, Conference, Synod, or Association. That is one of the abominable deceptions practiced in sectarian folds: and if something incurs the jealousy or displeasure of the lords of Badylon, people are often locked out of their own house or what should be their own house, had they not been foolish enough to sign it away.

Second, consult the laws of your state as to the peculiar manner in which a meeting for the election of trustees must be called. Some states require ten days notice of said meeting to be posted or published, and both that notice and the proceedings of the meeting to be recorded at the county seat.

Let the church of the living God be properly set in order by the ordination of elders and deacons, or at least one of each. “If any be blameless,” and ordained of God to these offices. Should no persons be designated by the Spirit as called to these offices, the building can be erected and remain in the hands of a good holy building committee, until the church shall have been set in order. But if possible it is best to have the spiritual temple all complete first. And if necessary better call some true minister of God there to labor in the gospel until the Spirit shows whom he has chosen, then let them be ordained by the laying on of hands and prayer. Then call your meeting for the election of trustees, according to law, and there and then let the elders, including any true unsectarian minister that may be residing near, and the deacon or deacons and their successors in office, be elected as the trustees of said house of worship. They can be elected by a minister or any true saint of God nominating them, and all the saints present can cast their vote by saying. Amen, which is the only kind of voting needed in God’s church since the day of Pentecost. The deed should be made to the church of the living God which is at, (name of place). In all legal documents it is best to have the full title of the church as found in 1 Tim. 3:15. This will distinguish it as being the property of the church of the living God, and not that of some so-called churches of the dead gods of this world.

The deed should therefore bear this form: Deed the property. Unto the Church of the Living God that is at or in (insert name of place, town, township, or P. O., county and state) in trust of (name the elders and deacons now in office) the elders and deacons of said church, and their successors in office. This avoids the creation of any unscriptural officers, and leaves the church in its Bible order with no additions. It also places the house in the control of the most suitable persons, and cuts off all subsequent elections of trustees. Whoever the Lord raises up as teaching and ruling elders and deacons, are already by the deed authorized as trustees.

Formal dedications are not necessary. When you first convene there for worship, in simple prayer and thanksgiving, devote the house to God and his service. Saints expecting in the future to erect houses of worship, preserve this paper and avoid a repetition of the same instruction.

__________

CHILDREN’S HOME.

_____

Grand Junction, Mich., Jan. 29, 1894.

Dearly Beloved Saints, Greeting in Jesus’ Name: We are praising God for his wonderful dealings with us in blessing us and keeping us saved, and in supplying our needs. And I desire to thank the dear people for their liberal contributions to the home. But there is a duty resting upon us and it seems clear that the Spirit is impressing me on this duty. Now the word of God says the laborer is worthy of his hire, and he that does not provide for his own household hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel. Now the word says, “He that preacheth the gospel, shall live by the gospel.” That means his family as well as himself. Now those who think of sending your families here to get them supported without doing their duty will soon bring a reproach on the cause, and they put in a season of idleness and without souls. Oh may God help each one to go forth with earnestness and the weight of souls upon them, with the same love that Jesus had for the lost world. You will not carry the Lord’s money in your pocket and say, “If I have got to go and preach they will have to support my family.” God help you, this is not an ecclesiastical arrangement in which a sect committee sends you out or calls you in. If you are called in the work and commissioned by the Holy Ghost and do your duty, God will do the caring for you and your household.

Now dearly beloved, I do not write for any gain for myself, but for those who have sent their children and those who are expecting to send. We are willing to bear the responsibility and care, and are laboring with our hands when not engaged in the gospel work, for the upbuilding of the home, and for the comfort of the little ones; and I desire no honor or praise, but desire that God be glorified. This morning finds me saved and sanctified, made white and tried. From your brother in Christ,

S. Michels.

==========

News from the Field

_____

Strasburg, Mo., Jan. 18, 1894.

Dear Readers of the Trumpet: I am praising God from the very depths of my heart for all his blessings and benefits that we can enjoy in this world. Surely the presence of his love and glory has been with me on my trip down here. We commenced meeting here Jan. 17. People turned out well with good order. They seemed to be real anxious for the truth. We are looking for the Lord to sow the word of life in many a heart here. Any one desiring my labors can write to me at Strasburg, Cass Co., Mo.

Richard Kachel.

_____

Mill Village, Pa.

To all the Saints and .Trumpet Readers, Greeting: We are glad to report victory in the name of Jesus. Sabbath eve we closed meeting at Me Lallen’s Corners which continued four weeks with good results. Many friends were won to the truth. About twenty-five or thirty consecrated, the most of whom seemed to get the desire of their hearts. We have now commenced meeting in the Manross meeting house four miles from the above named place. We expect to return to Mc Lallen’s Corners in the near future, and teach the little flock the way of sanctification more perfectly than we could do this time; also to observe the ordinances and to baptize. Any one desiring meeting at points near this place can address me at Mill Village, at once.

Jerry T. Stowe and Co.

_____

Gresham, Ner., Jan. 14, 1894.

To all the Saints of God: We are now sowing seed in Neb. We opened meeting last Sunday morning, also in the evening, and the house was full. This is near Goehner, Neb. We find wherever we go, God is leading out the faithful ones. Dear honest-hearted sinners are disgusted with the awful black and dishonest deeds that are done in Babylon, described in Rev. 18:1, 2. Now dear brethren, another matter. The brethren at Arkansas City sent us the means to come and hold a meeting there, and all things are ready and we cannot go, and they are glad to have any brother filled with the Spirit to come. Now there is much seed sown in that country, and many souls under conviction. Any one led of God can write to Bro. Utley, Box 92, Arkansas City, Karr. Your brother,

James Willis.

_____

Bedford, Mich., Jan. 20, 1894.

Dear Saints: Our last was from Tekonsha. The meeting at Bro. Sutherland’s school house was a success. Six in all justified, and many friends won to the truth. Meeting closed Jan. 10. We held one meeting in Tekonsha at Bro. Bennett’s house, then went to Bro. C. Eldridge’s. Commenced meeting in the saints’ meeting house in Girard. Dear Bro. Bennett whom the enemy had overthrown, renewed his covenant and God did restore hi in to favor. We then returned to Tekonsha, held meeting at Bro. Bennett’s house untill Wednesday night. Good congregations; several convicted, yet did not yield. Many desired the meeting to continue. But no suitable place being accessible we returned to Sutherland’s Thursday night to the regular prayer meeting. Preached the Word to a good congregation who gave great interest. Found the dear souls whom the Lord had saved but of the devil’s kingdom, joyful in glory. Friday, Jan. 19, we came to Bro. Swanson’s in Johnstown. Meeting to commence to night in the school house, two miles north of Bro. Swanson’s, to continue as long as the Lord wills. Pray much for us. Your brother saved and sanctified and called,

T. J. Cox.

_____

Cedarville, Mich., Jan. 15, 1894.

Dearly Beloved Saints and Trumpet Readers: I am praising God for a full salvation in my soul. Hallelujah to the Lamb of God! Oh how wonderfully the Lord has blessed my soul since I left the assembly meeting, in seeing souls saved, sanctified and healed through the power of God. When I left home for the assembly meeting I expected to be home in two weeks, but the Lord led otherwise, and it was about three months before I got back. And truly I can say with the disciples of old, I lacked nothing. Hallelujah! It pays to trust God. Bless the Lord! If we are called and sent, and obey the Holy Ghost, the leader, there will be no danger of lacking anything or of getting out of God’s order. Now I have to locate my family in a different place, and then I am ready to go to the utmost ends of the earth if the Spirit says so. O I do thank God I am all sold out to Jesus. The Lord has wonderfully blessed the little church up here. In the past two weeks there has been six at the altar for justification and six for sanctification. Pray for us and the church here, that we may be spotless, humble, and all led by the Spirit. Amen. We remain your humble brothers and servants,

Nicol and Stowell.

_____

Monett, Mo., Jan. 26, 1894.

Dear Brethren and Sisters: We have closed meeting at Monett, Mo. There were four sanctified and one converted. There are some real free

Page 3

people in this place. Their homes are open for the saints, but some that were professing to be saved of God when we went to Monett, were soon cut off by the word of God, and walked no more with us. Some were wearing gold and feathers and superfluous apparel and professing to be sanctified. But they were exposed and soon quit coming to the meeting. May God bless the few in Monett that were saved and were willing to obey the whole truth. The meeting closed last Monday night. Bro. Caudel and the two Russel brothers and their wives started home Wednesday morning. Wife and I still remain in Monett. We were at the saints’ prayer meeting last night, had a very good meeting. Wife and I may go from here to Webb City; just as the Lord may direct. We are out in the work so much as we can be. We desire your prayers that the Lord may liberate us from all financial hindrances, that we may be free to give the word all the time. May God abundantly bless all the readers of the GOSPEL TRUMPET. This leaves us saved and sanctified wholly. Pray for us. Yours, sanctified wholly,

Jas. A. Montgomery and Wife.

_____

Porterville, Cal., Jan. 22, 1894.

Dear Trumpet Readers: I feel it would be to the glory of God for me to give a report of the work of the Lord here at this place. Last night there were at the altar sixteen or seventeen, persons, and one young boy professed to be saved, whose father was also at the altar, but did not get through. Great good is being done. One case of healing of cancer. Wife and I came to the work here the 12th of Jan., where Bro. A. B. Davis has been in charge; and the dear Lord is most wonderfully blessing his labors here. There are now about twenty workers here, stripped for the race. Three or four baptized yesterday, and we had an ordinance meeting at three o’clock P. M., in which seventeen persons participated. It was a glorious time; about 200 present, who never saw the like before. Now there are many that are confirmed in the faith once delivered to the saints of God. The meeting began here Nov. 31st. It continued about fifty nights, and on Sundays all day. The dear Lord did heal me of my infirmities of the flesh last Saturday, Jan. 20. Now I am every whit made whole, and made to rejoice with that full assurance of faith that takes no denial. Amen. The work will continue as long as the Lord wills. The way has just begun to open up for souls to get to God fully. And some of the most prominent ones are coming out, desirous to be saved. The half has not yet been told. Love to all the dear saints in this holy war. Amen. Yours now separated unto the pure gospel of Christ,

John J. Bently.

_____

Burbank, Ohio., Jan. 26, 1894.

Dear Saints of God: We ask God that his very choicest blessings may rest upon you. The meeting at Ashland closed on the evening of the 24th with a grand victory on the Lord’s side. We give God the glory, as he did manifest himself in the saving, sanctifying, and healing power. The seed has been sown; the Word has gone forth that separates the precious from the vile; while Jesus and his perfect salvation was held up, and the conditions which must be complied with in order to obtain this great salvation that does save men and women from their sins in this life. Some accepted it and went on their way rejoicing in a Saviour’s love, while some as the prescription was put forth, it caused blackness to gather in the face and some could not sit still. It caused quite an uneasiness. Satan, in his subtlety, knew if they were to accept the Word, he would lose some of his instruments that are ready to do his bidding, and claim to be Christians. Well we do praise God for a pure gospel, and that God has commissioned us to go forth in his name and declare it to the people, regardless of fear or favor. By his help we will preach it, and ask your prayers that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for all men have not faith. But our God is faithful that has promised, who also will do it. We ask your prayers in the behalf of the little ones at Ashland. We will stop here over Lord’s day and then if Father wills, we go on our journey to Virginia, sowing the seed by the way. We are saved in Jesus, with a real victory over the world, the flesh and the devil; rejoicing in the hope of the glorious gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Address us at Reliance, Virginia. Yours, all sold out for Jesus,

Wm. H. Miller and F. Rosenbery.

_____

New Carlisle, O., Jan. 23, 1894.

Dear Trumpet Readers: We are still praising God for full salvation in our souls, and also for the effects of the gospel. We left home Dec. 19, 1893 and came to Springfield, O., and began meeting in the saints’ meeting house in Bro. B. E. Warren’s neighborhood. The meeting lasted just four weeks and was one of power and glory to our souls. God filled our souls with the eternal glory that fills all the souls of the sanctified. About twelve or fifteen professed pardon and a few were sanctified wholly, and the little church much strengthened in the faith of the gospel. Oh how we did praise God when Bro. and Sister Byers were made free from the River Brethren sect. May God use them in the salvation of precious souls. At the close of the meeting four dear souls were baptized in the name of Jesus. The house was too small to hold the crowds that attend. Many would return home as they could not get in. The brethren are moved to build a larger house of worship. We are now at New Carlisle, holding up the truth to the people in the town hall. Had meeting Saturday night and Sunday morning, and after preaching we invited souls to the altar and one dear man came and God pardoned all his sins, and after dinner we went down to the stream and baptized him, and he stayed for meeting that night and left on Monday morning, as he is a traveling man for a firm in LaFayette, Ind. His salvation reminds me of that of the Ethiopian; “He went bn his way rejoicing.” This is a new place and therefore ask you all to pray for us that God may give us much wisdom in preaching the truth. The people seem to be interested as they fill the hall, and listen with profound interest. We expect to remain in Clark Co. some time yet. We are your brother and sisters,

S. L. Speck and Co.

Burkett, Ind.

_____

Allegan, Mich.

Dear Saints: We are happy to report perfect victory for the Lord. Since we last reported God has kept us saved to the uttermost. We commenced meeting at Rolla, Mo. Dec. 9. The power of God was present and deep conviction rested upon the people. The place was filled with eager listeners from time to time. We felt when we first came to Rolla that God had a work to do there. We remained there over three months, during which time we held several meetings at various points. And to day God has a glorious church there in a much better working order than perhaps ever before. Some of them were a little conformed to this world, consequently not so clear in their souls. But when God’s word was dealt out without mixture, pride dropped off, and now they dress as people professing godliness. During the meeting we were rejoiced by the arrival of Bro. Wm. Warren whom God used much in dealing out the word of. truth. Meeting continued three weeks and closed Dec. 30th with baptismal services, where three were buried with Christ in baptism, which was witnessed by a large congregation of people. We then met at Bro. Howard’s house to observe the solemn ordinances of washing the saints’ feet and partaking of the Lord’s supper, of which seventeen took part. Several were instantly healed during our stay there. May God bless them, for truly signs and wonders were wrought in the name of Jesus. After the close of the meeting we received word from home to come immediately as my wife’s mother, Sister Warren, was low. We arrived home, and found her suffering greatly. The Lord willing, we will remain in these parts for a short season. Any one desiring meeting or help near, address us at this place. I pray God to send some one to fill the many calls that we received that we were unable to fill while in Mo. May God ever bless the dear ones who so kindly shared with us of their hospitalities, and help them to stand unto the end. Brethren, pray for us.

A. M. Bixler and Wm. E. Warren.

_____

Poplar Bluff, Mo., Jan. 21, 1894.

I left home Dec. 23, and went to Ripley county to the assembly meeting with the dear saints. God’s people truly are of one heart arid of one mind. There was much good done in the name and mighty power of the dear Lord. The Gospel was preaced in its purity and the Lord working with signs following. There were three healed in the name of the Lord. Oh! I do give God all of the praise for all of his benefits. Meeting ending at that place, and Bro. Hester and wife and myself were anointed to go to the Parker school house, eight miles south-west, in the same county and there the dear Lord did hear the prayers of his people. The Word went forth, taking its designed effect on the hearts of the people, some leaving their sect and others convinced, for it was a wonderful seed sowing time. Two were anointed in the name of the dear Lord and by faith in his promises, were healed. The Lord separating us from that place we went to another place west of there about five miles, at Post Oak school house, taking up our abode with our dear beloved Bro. Towell, who freely opened his heart and house to the strengthening of our bodies. We commenced meeting that night in the name of Jesus, knowing he is able to beat back all of the powers of darkness and his word did go forth in power. There was good attention and a wonderful seed-sowing time in the name of the Lord. There were good congregations. Some of the Methodists did not attend, for they heard the voice of their shepherd and staid away; but God, through prayer, will stop the mouths of the false shepherds, for truly they are afraid of his people. The people at that place had some light and there were seven or eight standing out of Babylon. One old brother over seventy years old broke off from his idols, coffee and tobacco, and received a second work of grace, and went about a living testimony for the Lord. Glory to Jesus! We stayed at that place one week, and came down to Bro. Hester’s father’s, stopping over two days, then taking our leave, came down to Varner on the Doniphan branch and stayed during two meetings with Bro. Hester and wife, leaving them standing on the promises of the Lord. We arrived home on the 20th of the present month, and are ready to go when Jesus calls. Your saved brother under the blood,

J. C. Barker.

_____

Robinson, Kan., Jan. 23, 1894.

Dear Trumpet Readers: To day I will tell of the wonderful works of God in this place. On the 17th of Dec. we began a series of meeting with king Jesus in the lead. As he led us on from victory unto victory we were made to shout the high praises of God. During our meeting God wonderfully manifested his healing power in a number of cases, for which we give him all the glory. On the 20th of Dec. the saints were called for to pray for the healing of a brother who had suffered five days with LaGrippe and was rapidly growing worse. We obeyed Jas. 5:14 and the Lord immediately rebuked the disease and he arose and praised the Lord who had so wonderfully healed him. Even those who were in sin were convinced of God’s power to heal in these last days. Several days afterward he had a very severe attack of neuralgia in his head, and this time his son became alarmed on account of his serious illness, and knowing he must have speedy relief, came for the saints instead of a doctor, showing his confidence in God and his word, although he is a sinner. We went, did according to Jas. 5:14 and the Lord immediately raised him up. Praise his name! On the 13th of Jan. the saints were called to pray for another brother. We went and found him quite sick with a hot fever. We obeyed Jas 5:14 and he was instantly healed, giving glory to God. Jan. 14 we gathered at the house of worship at the usual hour, and a little child who was in our midst began to cry with the ear ache, which disturbed the meeting very much. This was rebuked in secret prayer and her crying ceased for a few minutes, but soon began again. The Lord wanted to reward us openly. So the saints anointed in the name of Jesus, and as quick as we stepped out on his promises declaring the work done, she ceased crying and sinners were made to acknowledge the work was done. God fulfilled his word, Eph. 3:20, and to him be all the glory. He prepared a table before us in the presence of our enemies. Deep conviction settled down on the sinners. The Lord wonderfully moved on the hearts of the children to turn from their evil way, and we were glad to see eight dear children come to him confessing their sins, and he freely forgave them. Besides these there were two others who had once been saved but lost the grace of God out of their hearts, and came back to Father’s house and he received them. There were nine consecrations for sanctification. We are are sorry to say there have been some wolves entering in and destroying some of the flock. Pray for them. And strong delusions are entering to deceive the sinners. Pray God to give us wisdom to know how to deal with eternity bound souls. Our meeting closed last night with an ordinance meeting. From your sister, saved and sanctified,

E. Dansberger.

==========

THY TESTIMONIES ARE WONDERFUL.

Psa. 119:129.

_____

Crowland, Ont.

Dear Saints of God: I praise God for this privilege of writing my testimony for the first time. I praise God for ever sending his true messengers in this country to preach the everlasting gospel. I can say to day I am saved and sanctified and kept by the mighty power of God. For many years I belonged to the Wesleyan Methodist sect, but praise God, I am out of all sects and isms, and free to worship God aright. For a few years after I was converted we enjoyed the full blessings of God, but the wolf came and scattered the sheep. But praise God, when he sent Bro. Warner and company here to preach this blessed evening light, some of His sheep were gathered together from where they had been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. I am now getting old, but am determined by the grace of God to make heaven my home. Pray for me, that I may always be found doing God’s will in all thing. Your saved brother in Christ,

Reuben Buchner.

_____

Brock, Ohio.

Dear Brethren in Christ: We feel led to write our testimony, believing it will be to the glory of God to do so. We are saved to the uttermost, with complete victory in our souls, and are still advancing in God’s will and the understanding of his word. We ask the saints of God all to pray for us that we may be submissive to the voice of his Spirit and do what he may lead us to do. The saints here are but few, but they stand valiant for the truth. Though Babylon rages and howls while her city burns, yet we have all the armor of God on and rejoice to see her burn, praying to God that he may hasten the day when all his elect will be saved from the burning city. The Lord has kept us saved ever since we have been called into this evening light, and has been our physician. He has wonderfully healed our little Otto’s eye. The cord had become shortened one side, so that the ball would not turn more than half way back. But complying with the word; having him anointed with oil, and laying on hands, he has been perfectly restored again. To God be all the glory. He has since been healed of what we supposed to be LaGrippe. Was very bad, but the Lord raised him up. Praise his holy name! Yours in the one body,

S. J. and M. E. Holsapple.

==========

OBITUARIES.

_____

Bro. Wm. Ferrell, was born in the state of Illinois Jan. 22, 1873, died Jan. 16, 1894; aged twenty years, eleven months and twenty-four days. He embraced the salvation of Jesus Christ ill the month of August 1893, during the Deerfield camp meeting. He lived a devoted child of God until the last moment of his stay here upon earth. On the morning of his death he called his friends around his bedside and entreated them to meet him in heaven. His last expressed words were praises unto God with uplifted hands. He endured his suffering during his affliction with much patience. “Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his.” May God bless the dear bereaved family and help them to live so as to meet Willie in the better clime. Funeral services by your unworthy servant.

H. C. WICKERSHAM.

_____

Crowland, Ont.

Mother Buchner died at her home, Nov. 11, 1893; aged seventy-eight years. She was born in Connecticut, U. S. in the year 1815. She came to Canada with her parents and settled in Stanford, near Niagara Falls, at the age of fifteen moved to Crowland. She was married to Reuben Buchner, her now bereaved husband. She had six children three of whom are living, two sons and one daughter, who so kindly administered to her wants till the last. In Dec. 1839 she was converted and joined the Wesleyan Methodist sect. She remained there till five years ago, when God sent Bro. Warner and company here to preach this blessed evening light, when she heard the Lord say, “Come out, my people,” and obeyed the call and lived a happy Christian life till God called her home. She gave her house for God’s children to worship in. She was blind in one eye for sixteen years. About two months before she died her eye came open and stayed open till she died. She said she could see out of it. On Saturday she laid herself out, closed her own eyes and folded her hands. Funeral services by

Bro’s Smith and Birdsall.

_____

Sister Sarah J. Hirst, Welland, Ont., was the daughter of Reuben and Susan Buchner, and was born Nov. 12, 1842. At the age of seventeen she was converted to God and for fourteen years she lived a true Christian life. Her religious experience was earnest, regular and constant, both in the church and family. In the family circle she acted the true part of a mother. The family altar was preserved by her personal devotion. Her children were the subject of her deepest solicitude and anxious care. The last Sabbath on earth was peculiar for the manifestation of this care. She called her children to her bedside, solemnly warning them against evil, at the same time exhorting them to meet her in heaven, charging them in the meantime to read the Bible, to pray and attend God’s house. A special message was left for two absent brothers who are still out of Christ, also with the charge that they should meet her in glory. The confidence of Sister Hirst in the final struggle was without a single doubt or fear. She gave the brightest testimony as to her trust in Christ and her peace with God. Thus this early converted and solemnly covenanted child of God sweetly slept in Jesus, Nov. 26, 1893, mourned by a husband, five children, father, mother, brothers and sister.

Page 4

WALKING WORTHY.

_____

I see the heavenly Jerusalem, the pure white sanctified church, the bride arrayed in her beautiful garments of fine linen so white and clean. ’Tis the body of Jesus, grand, glorious structure came down from heaven. Dear redeemed, God sets us in this heavenly originated building where we can best glorify him. Surely he does not leave us ignorant of our position. It would not be to his glory; therefore he says, “Be not unwise but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” There we have our mission to perform. Now that God has cleansed, purified, and fitted us up for a place in this crystal temple lighted with his glory, may he help us all and put an earnest endeavor in our souls to walk worthy. Close indeed is the connection between this adorned bride and her husband. They are one. The pure crystal river of life that flows from God’s throne courses throughout the entire structure from heaven to earth. The glory of God and the Lamb that lightens the temple beyond the sky, also brightly shines in the tabernacle of God with men. A continuous stream of water and light from heaven to earth. The gentle current mingled with the effulgent rays of light sweetened amid the glories of heaven has not yet lost its sweetness when it reaches the remotest part upon earth. Keep within the flow of the river, walking in the light, and your life will be kept pure and sweet. On either side of this river throughout its entire course, whether it be in heaven or on earth, is found the tree of life. Here is found fruit sufficient (if ye only eat in plenty) to satisfy the soul, and leaves for the healing of every disorder. Do you see the holy city and the glory thereof? Do you occupy a place in her jasper walls? If so, God help you to walk worthy and keep yourself clear and unspotted that the light may shine through you to this dark world of sin.

Oh for a closer walk with Jesus! I hear the voice of Jesus speaking in my soul and a response of glory! glory! I see a light ahead. Dearly beloved. I believe in my soul that this year will reveal things not seen since the morning light. We see satanic power increasing; deceptions growing more deceptive. God will not be outgeneraled nor taken by any stratagem of the enemy. And as the power of Satan increases, the power of God necessarily so much the more. Dear ones, in Jesus’ name move forward; walk worthy. At the last June camp meeting I saw a number of hands raised before God in reply to the question, asked, “Who will do what you can?” Are you, in all it means, led by the spirit of the Lord? Have you not one selfish motive? If God should really ask you to give every dollar of your earthly possessions for his work, are you sure you could hear him? Can you truly say to all this world, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ?” Whatever may be our vocation let us walk worthy, and do it all in Jesus’ name. Undertake no work of any kind in the strength of self. Self checks the power of God. Behold Jesus comes quickly. Blessed is he that has motives pure and is moved out and is led by the Lord. Amen. Please pray that I may ever walk worthy with all lowliness, meekness longsuffering and forbearance.

Chas. Orr.

==========

THE SECRET VICE.

AN AWFUL SIN.

The time has now come, my dear boys, for us to give you some real plain talk, and we believe you are anxious to listen, and willing to learn and profit by whatever may be given for your good and benefit.

We are quite sure that none of you desire to live a life of wickedness, and if any have already been overtaken in some ways of wickedness, we trust that you will begin to day to live a pure life.

There are many temptations all along the way to turn the mind of the child from the path of right and purity.

There is one temptation to which thousands of boys have yielded and been brought down to destruction as a result. It leads to an awful sin, and that is the sin of Self Abuse. Now many of you perhaps do not know what is meant by the words, Self Abuse.” You may have to ask your father or mother, or some good kind man just what it means, and they will explain it to you. Never ask a bad boy about such things. We will try and make it as plain to you as possible, and while we do so, you must keep your minds pure, for we are going to show you the awful effects and results of this vile practice.

Self Abuse is an improper use of your hands upon that part of your body called the sexual organs. It is a very evil and dangerous practice, which if continued will destroy both soul and body. It is an abuse of the body and a sin against God, and the Bible tells us that they who do such things cannot get into heaven. This practice defiles the body, and in another place the Bible says that we are the temples of God, and if we defile our bodies God will destroy us. So you see God is against all who do such a wicked act.

There are a great many when very young accidentally learn this evil practice themselves, or are taught it by older boys who are very wicked, and the practice is kept up, not knowing that there is much harm, if any, in so doing. I have known of little ones not over three years of age practicing this vile habit, but they knew nothing about the bad effects that were sure to follow, but by proper warning and careful training they soon quit it.

Boys generally learn this practice after they are about eight or ten years of age, but in a few years the effects are plainly to be seen. On another page is the picture of an cight-year-old boy who never was guilty of doing such things. There you see his sweet innocent face with a heavenly sweetness about his smile. Take a look at him a few years later, after having turned into the ways of sin, and instead of the heavenly purity, you will see guilt and shame depicted in his face.

One bad boy in a family or school, or in a community is often the means of ruining scores of innocent young boys, and starting them on a sinful course by teaching them this vile practice, “just for fun,” as he tells them, informing them that there is no harm whatever, and laughs at them if they will not do so. Dear boys, it is better to be laughed at a few times than to be ruined forever.

This vile practice is somtimes called masturbation, because it is practiced with the hands. Also called the secret vice, as boys addicted to the habit, love to go off alone to some secluded place where they can secretly indulge in the sinful abuse of their bodies. Often the privy, or water closet, is the chosen place, or almost any place where they think they will not be seen. But there is an eye which never sleeps, and is always watching them while in those secluded places. You cannot hide from this all-seeing eye; it is God who watches you, even in the dark, or when shut up in a room, he can see, and know all about what you do or say, and even know all about your thoughts. Nothing can be hidden from him, and the good book tells us that he has a book of remembrance, in which is kept a record of all bad deeds done. Yet he has promised to blot them all out and remember them no more against us if we quit doing evil and ask him to forgive us.

SOME OF THE EFFECTS.

As we have just told you about this great sin we will now proceed to tell you about some of the effects it has upon a person.

The bright little boy who has always been playful, cheerful and happy, soon after beginning this habit becomes less cheerful, does not care so much for play, loves to be alone. As he grows older his eyes have a dull, heavy look about them; the face becomes sallow and pale, hands cold and clammy, and by the time he has reached the age of twelve or fifteen years, he can scarcely remember anything that he is told to do. It seems as if the desire to study has all vanished away. In school, the lessons go unlearned; to center the mind upon any lesson or instruction being given by the teachers appears to be almost an impossibility. The mind wanders from one thing to another and really seems to be fixed upon nothing. If sent on an errand, is is often forgotten before the work is performed. He forgets where he left his hat, his coat, or shoes. Behold, it is a world of forgetfulness to him.

The trouble does not end here, for he is unfit for business, and if offered a good paying position he could not be trusted with the place. Disease is also preying upon his body. With young boys it often works upon their nervous system and causes them to have what is called St. Vitus’ Dance, which often makes them so that they cannot walk or even sit alone, and causes the limbs, arms and head to jerk about in every direction. Others in a few years complain of pain in their sides, back, limbs and other parts of the body and often get dizzy; are troubled with catarrh, weak eyes, and many other ailments, and if the habit is continued, they will fill a consumptive’s grave, or end their days in an insane asylum.

A recent inquiry concerning the inmates of an insane asylum, brought forth the fact that 364 persons had been sent there from the effects of vicious habits.

And now, boys, as only a few of the effects have been shown here, yet surely it is enough to convince you that it is a great sin in the sight of God and a curse to yourself, disgusting to those around you and a reproach to your home and friends. It unfits a boy for society, and his guilty face tells on him, and as the prophet Isaiah says, “The shew of their countenance doth witness against them.”

Do you not know that doctors can tell what you have been doing, as soon as you come in their presence? Your teacher can tell it also; even some of the women and young ladies know about it from the signs in your face, your actions, and various other ways. You cannot hide it. The old saying is that “murder will out.” Well this is self-murder, and you are yourself, every time you practice it, exposing yourself by telling what you have been guilty of doing, and yet you thought it was all a secret.

God saw you do the act, and now you go about telling the people about it by your actions and the signs it has left upon you. Shame! Shame on the boy who reads these lines and ever tries to do such a thing again!

ON THE DOWNWARD ROAD.

There is such a thing as going so far on this line of sin that there seems to be no shame, and the one who has become the victim of this vice to such an extent appears unconcerned as to what people think. There is where the downward road is taken at a rapid rate, and Misery and Despair are only a short distance ahead waiting for him as a friend along the journey of life. Such boys take delight in telling to others about the vile practice of which they are guilty. Their minds have become a fountain of impure thoughts and they are ushered along the stream of time with the filth and dregs of society.

WICKED COMPANIONS.

Follow the life of the self-degrading boy a little further and you will find that wicked associates arc his chosen companions. The course he has taken has led him into one vice after another until truth and virtue are almost strangers to him. If there is any inclination to be in company with girls or young ladies, it is only those who are of the same character as himself, or to rob some innocent one of her virtue. God pity such boys! If they could only see themselves as other’s see them, and realize how the dear Savior would love to save their souls and fit them to become useful men, surely they would at once seek to make a change. True manhood is in the reach of every boy, but if he takes the wrong road he is sure to miss it.

But alas for the boys who have allowed Satan to bind them with his chain of secret vice; who have been allured and led into the habit of Self Abuse until it has fastened its hold upon them until they have no power of resistance. What a pity! what a disgrace! what a shame, to see the rising generation so swiftly gliding down the rapid current of time, bound and labeled for eternal destruction!

AN ATTEMPT TO ESCAPE.

Those who have only just started on this downward toad can stop if they will, and escape the clutches of slavery. But now we will turn our attention to one who has gone to the extent that he cannot resist the temptation of defiling his body. He becomes awakened to his condition and sees that there is great danger just ahead and his frail vessel is already almost wrecked.

He now resolves that he will indulge in the practice but once more and then forever quit. He carries out the first part of his resolve very successfully, that is, he indulges once more and considers himself now on a line of reform.

THE FAILURE.

Take another look at the young reformer, and, behold, he has not made one step on the line of reform, but is now just ready. The first part of his resolution only bound him more firmly. He says, “Now I will forever quit.” His mind is weak, and he has little or no power to resist evil. Evil thoughts are still harbored in the mind, and wicked companions discourage all attempts to do better. He has not the courage to speak to any one who is able to help him out, and even feels that God is a great ways off. The battle is left to be fought alone, and in his weakness he yields again and again, and to his horror finds himself in deep despair. A failure indeed! The most wretched creature upon the face of the earth!

This is only too true a description of thousands among the rich as well as among the poor. It takes something more than wealth to free a person from such a bondage and break the chains of slavery.

ANOTHER ATTEMPT.

As the drowning man grasps at a straw with a hope of being rescued, so will the poor degraded one, when fully awakened to his condition, reach out after almost any thing that promises recovery, after he finds his own efforts are of no avail. Medical institutions and quack doctors have their snares laid, and the many fair promises of the restoration of health cause him to become easily ensnared.

The newspapers contain advertisements of “Manhood Restored.” “Circulars sent free,” etc. Beware of such places. Their circulars are poisonous, and the object is, since you have been robbed of your manhood, to now rob you of what is in your pocket book, and that they will do if you tamper with them, and you will be left in a worse condition than before.

My wretchedness! My wretchedness! O that I had never been born! has been the expression of many a person when hope had fled away, and grim Despair and Misery stood up like giants before him.

Listen! Hark! A sweet voice in the distance calls out in soft mellow tones, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” The poor despairing one looks about in surprise. Surely this cannot mean me, yet I am surely heavily enough laden with sin, and my soul needs rest.

But list, again! that sweet loving voice seems nearer than before, saying: “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Behold! it is a voice from heaven. Hear the words as they gently fall, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and God will have mercy upon him and will abundantly pardon.” “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.”

Dear suffering ones, this means you, they are the words of the Lord. A loving Savior is reaching out a helping hand, and now it is for you to decide as to whether or not you will accept. His word says, If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. — 1 Jno. 1:9.

Though you may be steeped in sin, as it were, yet he means you, for he says he came to save the lost. If you are among the lost, then remember he is ready and willing to save your soul and give you a pure heart, and enable you to yet live a pure life. Will you not make the attempt and decide to begin anew just now?

There are great numbers of men and women in the insane asylums now, whose minds have been destroyed by the effects of the practice of self abuse, many of them having begun the evil habit when they were quite young, not knowing where it would lead them, nor what would be the result.

Parents are often to blame for the condition of their boys and girls, because they do not give them the needed instruction and advice at the proper time, and will never place any books in their hands that will show the danger of indulging in such unclean and evil habits. Some say, Let them learn by experience. Self obtained experience has proved too often a fatal lesson which the poor victim has learned at the cost of his life when almost too late to escape the clutches and terrible results of the awful vice binding him securely like the coils of a serpent.

Boys, if you continue to practice this bad habit, it will unfit you to be in the society of either ladies or gentlemen; and unfit you to become the husbands of pure and lovely women, or raise a family. It will unfit you for business and leave you a wretched being indeed.

This habit will have a simular effect upon girls, and unfit them for becoming a true wife and mother, and rob them of their pure love and virtue.

There are many men and women who who have never been guilty of this vile practice but little if any, whose bodies are physical wrecks and their minds almost destroyed, and their face shows the signs and effects of the great evil. What is the trouble with them? While they consider it too low an act for them to do, yet they from their youthful days have kept their minds impure, by letting their thoughts run in a channel of vulgar things, until such licentious thoughts have left their trace and evil effects stamped upon the mind, face, body and soul.,

E. E. Byrum.

The above can be had in tract form. This subject is continued in the book entitled “The Boy’s Companion.”

==========

THY TESTIMONIES ARE WONDERFUL.

Psa. 119:129.

_____

Bentley, Kan.

Dear Saints of God: I can say I am saved and kept by power divine. I have passed through many trials and afflictions in the past year; but my trust is in Jesus. L can truly say, not my will but thy will, O. Lord, be done. Pray for your humble sister.

Mrs. A. J. Howe.

_____

Lawrenceville, O.

Dear Saints of God: I feel like writing and telling what the Lord has done for me. He has forgiven me and delivered me from the adversary. Bless his dear name! Oh! I do thank the Lord for saving me. Hallelujah to Jesus! May the dear Lord save and deliver other precious souls. Yours, saved by the blood of Jesus,

C. Hentschel.

_____

Marquand, Mo.

Dear Saints of God: I praise God for this wonderful salvation that keeps from sin. I know that I am in God’s church. Praise the Lord! I am free from sects, saved and sanctified, and kept by his power every hour. I praise the dear Lord that I can say that I am a Christian. Pray for me. Your sister in Christ,

Annie Gross.

_____

Norwood, Mo.

Dear Saints of God: I feel very much impressed to send a few lines through the GOSPEL TRUMPET for the first time. I am giving God all the glory for my escape out of sectism and helping me to find the more perfect way. Oh I do love the dear Lord and his little ones. He has been so good to me, for he knew I thirsted for righteousness and he has filled me, and now I have a peace so sweet and I am satisfied, sanctified and kept by the power of God. Your sister,

Dena Clark.

Decatur, Ind.

Dear Bethren: I wish to write my testimony and give God the glory for healing my afflicted body. For some few weeks I have been afflicted in my back and hip with something like rheumatism. I asked the saints to pray for my healing, and now at this moment I know I am healed. I would say if there are any in this condition, take it to the Lord. He can heal you. Your brother in Christ,

Wm. Ault.

_____

Dawson, Pa.

Dear Saints of God: May the Lord bless you all and keep you saved. I am still saved, justified and sanctified and kept by the mighty power of God; unspotted from this sinful and wicked world. Praise the Lord for his saving grace! Well I can truly say that I touch not, taste not the unclean things of this world, and this world has no charms for me. I pray God to send some of his anointed ones through here, for the little assembly here is very weak and needs teaching and encouragement. Your saved brother,

D. Little.

_____

Clinton, Ill.

Dear Saints: After reading the precious testimonies, I feel led to mingle mine with the rest. Well, for myself I can say this morning that I am saved. I have built my house upon the sure foundation, upon the rock, Christ Jesus. Hallelujah to his name! By his help I am doing what I can for his glorious cause. But oh! there seems so much to do and so few to do it. I pray the Lord will send forth more laborers into the harvest field. Pray for me, dear ones. Your saved sister,

E. C. Smith.

_____

Auburn, Neb.

Dear Saints and Readers of the Trumpet: I am rejoicing in a salvation that saves from all sin. Glory to God for the sweet peace I have in serving the blessed Master! He has saved me from all of the snares of the enemy, from all sectism and all secret societies. I was disgusted with sectism over fifteen years ago, but knew not what to do, or where to go to find God’s true children. But thanks be to God for a few tracts that were given me over three years years ago by a poor miserable sinner who handed them to me with these words: “Here are some tracts that were given me at Atchison, Kan. You can have them for I will never read them.” Oh I do thank God for those few tracts. They brought me the very food that my poor soul was thristing for. I then subscribed for the TRUMPET, and after reading it for one year I then called for meeting, and now God has a church here of about sixteen saints, and we have meeting twice on Sunday and prayer meeting on Thursday night. Now dear saints, you see what a few tracts have accomplished. Now you make use of your opportunities to spread the gospel. Accept the offer of 1000 tracts for one dollar and at the same time send fifty cents for TRUMPETS. Then send them forth in the name of Jesus. Now I will tell you how I do and if the Lord leads you to do the same, amen. I have a book in which I write the name and address of every one that I can find. Then take a TRUMPET, put tracts in it and send it to the addresses of the names I have in the book. I use No. 6 envelopes. By cutting them open at both ends they make very good wrappers, and very cheap, and a one-cent stamp will send them anywhere in the United States. Now dear saints, work before the night cometh wherein no man can work. By investing a small amount of money in tracts you may be able to help some poor soul out of darkness, into the light and liberty of the gospel of our blessed Savior. Thank God for the evening light! Your brother saved and sanctified,

M. H. Long.

[According to Postal Laws, papers can be sent by other than publishers at the rate of one cent for four ounces. When tracts are enclosed in these the postage rate for both is the same as for tracts alone, or third class matter, which is one cent for every two ounces. — Pub.]

Добавить комментарий