1 May 1885, Volume 7, Number 4.
The White Cavalry.
BY D. S. WARNER.
Lo Heaven now opens to rapturous view,
The armies that follow the “Faithful and True.”
“Arrayed in fine linen,” and “armor of light,”
With “Swords” of destruction “the nations to smite.”
Cho. — All Glory to God, we will follow the Lamb.
All Glory to God, we will fight in the van.
In uniform white, on our holiness steeds,
We’l rush to the battle wherever He leads.
The holy, all ride upon hobbies, they say;
But horses we have of a heavenly neigh.
Then join in our phalanx of Cavalry white.
And ride in the Spirit’s Omnipotent might.
This campaign of fire shall sweep o’er the land,
Enlisting the pure that are able to stand.
In columns of Glory they follow their King;
Like thunder their songs of sweet melody ring.
Speed onward great army, “to judge and make war,”
Salvation in Jesus, go trumpet afar.
There’r battles to fight, and fair trophies to win,
And perishing souls to be rescued from sin.
All honor to Jesus, whose “eyes are a flame;”
Who wondrously helps us each battle to gain,
‘He’s clothed in a vesture that’s dipped in the blood,
He graciously shed to redeem us to God.
The beast and his army all gather in vain,
“With all the false propets “they’re taken and slain.”
The Bride and the Bridegroom now shine as the Sun,
The rapturous scene of the “marriage is come.”
No one has a right to re-print this song, without pemission from the author.
THE Eighteenth of Rev. records the utter fall of babylon, and the separation of Christ and His Church from all her borders. “And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee; and the voice of the Bridegroom, and of Bride shall be heard no more at all in thee.” — Rev. 18:23.
And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.
Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready. — Rev. 19:6, 7.
“The Lord God omnipotent reigneth” in the hearts of the saints, when purified and made ready for the marriage supper. And in this holy state, the Church renders ascriptions of praise, and songs of glory to God, like the voice of many waters, and the noise of loud thunderings. Hallelujah! let the echoes roll, till heaven and earth resound with praises to Him who abundantly deserves it all.
And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.
And He said unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. And He saith unto me, these are the true sayings of God. — Verses 8, 9.
Here we see that the Bride, the Lamb’s wife, which is the Church, is made ready for the marriage supper, by being clothed in “fine linen, clean and white,” which is the “righteousness of the saints.” This scene of the pure and holy “Church, is not reserved for the world to come, but is necessary in this life, and is an actual attainment of all that, are redeemed, and washed in the blood of the Lamb. “Be not deceived, for he that doeth righteousness is righteous even as He is righteous.” This perfect righteousness is not to be put off to the last hour of life. But what saith the Lord? “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” God’s kingdom, then perfect transformation info God’s righteousness, are the first two things to be attained in the order of the christian life. These two works of God, are to rapidly succeed each other; and each to be entered by faith in God’s Word; “For therein is the Righteousnes of God revealed from faith to faith.” The Lord has already this prepared Bride, and is adding to her numbers such as are willing to pass through the refining fire of the Holy Spirit, and the cleansing blood. And “Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage of the Lamb,” even all that hear the true Gospel of Holiness.
And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.
His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written that no man know but he himself.
And he was clothed in a vesture dipped in blood: and his name was called the Word of God.
And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. — Rev. 19:11—14.
This is still all present truth. The opening of heaven, is the excavation of God’s Church from the rubbish, and superstition of sectism and creedism. But a few years ago, every body thought the modern sects the Church. Scarcely anyone seemed to be aware of the fact that the body of Christ, as joined together by the Spirit of God, is the Church. “But heaven has been opened” — what God calls the Church has been brought to light, and acknowledged by most of the editors and preachers that opposed us when we first began to hold up Christ, His body, as the Church, and all sects as babylon.
Christ, the “Faithful and True”, at the head of this army, goes forth to judge and make war. Surely this is not up in the world of angels. “His eyes are a flame of fire.” This is a fiery Gospel, which, by the Holy Spirit, is now going forth to purge the Church from every particle of dross and unrighteousness with which it is associated.
“Clothed in a vesture dipped in blood.” This shows that in this stage of Revelations, our Emanuel still carries the atoning blood, and while He is a consuming fire to all the devil’s kingdom, His blood avails for all the humble souls that submit themselves to His holy septre.
In verse 14 we see the Bride, the Lamb’s wife, mustered into the great army of the Faithful and True. And the nuptial robes of fine white linen, become the glittering uniform of her martial glory. As it is written, “Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the Sun, and terrible as an army with banners.” — Songs of Solomon 6:10. Answer: The Bride of Christ, formed into an army to fight the last battle of the “Word of God.” Thus we see that our white robes are not suspended in the antiroom of heaven above, nor reserved for assention robes to Glory, as so many think, but they are a practical uniform, for actual service on earth. They can be worn “without spot wrinkle,” even in the conflicts of war, and the dust of battle. Praise God in the highest!
What about the white horses upon which the bridal army is mounted? Why they are the same that Christ their leader rides upon. White denotes purity, holiness; the horse represents power, and speed. So Christ and His army are borne above the earth, “and swiftly carried forward by the power of true holiness. The prophet describes Christ as “traveling in the greatnes of His strength.” And Paul says we may be “strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power.” 1 Col. 1:11. Again, we ride upon the same horse that Christ does, according to these two texts: Christ, is “Declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness.” — Rom. 1:4. And “Ye shall receive power after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you.” By the power of the Holy Spirit, we are raised up wish Him in heavenly places: therefore it is in “heaven” — heavenly realms of the love and Spirit of God — that this white uniformed Cavalry, follow Christ, “The Word of God,” all on white horses. What grandure and beauty in this figure of “White horses.” What a glorious combination of purity, strength and speed. Does not holiness triumpantly bear us up above the world and sin? Without entire sanctification, and the power of the Holy Comforter, men are like toiling foot soldiers, their feet fast in the mud, and their weary hacks bent with weights and bundles of truck, and their progres as slow as a shall; while the mighty power of the Sanctifyer, sweeps away the weights, and raises us above the plain of the world, relieves us from all dependence upon our own strength, and carries us up on the strength of God. We carry no more burdens, but like a soldier mounting upon a strong steed, relieves his galded and aching shoulders of the weight of his knapsack, and both he and his bundle are carried by the noble animal: so the sanctified wholly “cast all their care on the Lord,” and themselves also, and rising up, to sit with Christ, in heavenly places, we ride in the Spirit’s omnipotent might. The same figure of a weary footman, mounting a strong, fresh, fleet horse, will, in some measure, illustrate the wonderful increase in the speed of a soul when cleansed, and caught up in the power of the Spirit. That soul will advance more in one month, in the light of truth, and in the power, and work of God, than in five years of wilderness trudge. Hallelujah to God and the Lamb! for our holiness horse, that never gets weary, but gathers more strength in the swift onward march.
And out of His mouth goeth a sharp Sword, that with it He should smite the nations; and He should rule them with a rod of iron: and He treadeth the winepress of the feirceness and wrath of Almighty God. — Rev. 19:15.
This verse describes the “fury, and fire, and wrath of God, that is portrayed all trough the Bible, which is set in array to destroy all the false religion, and works of the devil. He “hath commanded His sanctified ones, and called His mighty ones, for Gis anger.” See Isa. 13:1, 2 9, 15.
And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him that sat on the horse, and against His army.
And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he had deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshiped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire, burning with brimstone. — Verses 19, 20.
Here it is clearly seen that this great battle is still on the earth. For the “Beast,” false religion, “the kings of the earth, and their armies,” all combine their forces against Christ and His white army; but thank God they are being consumed, with all the false prophets, and all that have the mark of the beast, and all that worship his image, — all that have the sectarian name, and image, and spirit in their hearts — are now being consumed by the flame, and “sharp Sword,” Christ’s glorious Gospel.
And I heard as it were the voice of a multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. – Rev. 19:6.
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ANSWER TO QUESTIONS.
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Orville Ohio Feb. 23, 1883.
Dear Brother: — Will you answer the following questions?
1 Is it right for preachers to attend Camp-fires?
2 Do preachers partake of the sin of a dance, that is advertized with the Camp-fire, if they do not stay to look on?
3 Ought we go to hear them preach?
4 If a preacher has his life insured, and belongs to the Odd fellows, or Masons, can he have any faith in God?
Your Bro.
H. D. Martin
ANSWER.
1 By Camp-fires we understand the brother to mean soldier’s rallies. To the question we answer, no. A saved man of God has no attraction to any such place. He would far rather be alone with God, than in a rabble of sinners. By inclining to such a place, men give evidence of a graceless heart. And if preachers, they are the devil’s preachers. God’s ministers “give themselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the Word.”
2 Yes by patronizing the carnal gathering with their presence is any part, they partake of the sins of the whole proceedure.
3 No. We should not give encouragement to any of the devil’s preachers by our presence. Neither should a saint of God go to hear any heretic — sectarian — preacher, at all, when you know he is a sectarian at heart. “Therefore, thus saith the Lord, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before me: and if thou take the precious from the vile, thou shall be as my month, let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them.” Jer. 15:19. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate (stay away from them) saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you.” — 2 Cor. 6:17.
4 No. To have faith in God, men must be consecrated to Him, and that implies separation from, all the works of the flesh and of darkness. “How can ye believe who receive honor one from another and seek not the honor that cometh from God only?”
Daniel.
BABYLON IS FALLEN.
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Maple Rapids. Mar. 23d, 1885.
DEAR Brethren: — I praise God for the glorious privilege of becoming His child. Hallelujah to God, and the Lamb for ever! who has purchased our redemption. I stand, all redeemed by the blood, “behold God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid, for the Lord Jehovah is my strength, and my song, He also has become my salvation.” Yes He is made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.” So when we get Him in the soul, we get all. Let us listen to the voice of the Spirit, and be led by it.
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God, dwelleth in you. If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy, for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.”
Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you, seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool that he may be wise, “for the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, “He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.” And again “the Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.”
Therefore, let no man glory in man, for all things are yours, and ye are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s. 1 Cor. 13th, 16:23.
Praise His holy name! “Now we have received not, the Spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” Which things also, we speak not in the words which man’s wisdom teaches, hut which the Holy Ghost teacheth, “comparing spiritual things, with spiritual.” But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual, judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.” For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct Him.” But we have” the mind of Christ, 1 Cor. 2:11—16. Also 1 Cor. 6:19—20. What, know ye not that your body is the temple of the holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
Praise God, for the holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God, out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. “And I heard a voice out of heaven saying, behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God. Rev. 12:2-3. Also Heb. 12:22. “But ye are come unto Mount Zion, and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly, and Church of the First Born, which are written in heaven. And to God, the judge of all, and to the Spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of the New Covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaketh better things, than that of Abel.” John the Revelator, says a new heaven, and a new earth, for the first heaven, and the first earth were passed away.
And the voice of harpers, and of musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters shall he heard no more at all in thee, and the sound of a millstone shall be heared no more at all in thee. Truly babylon is fallen, and the grinding has about ceased. One of the Priests of Baal, has been running opposition meetings, nearly all winter, at Bridgeville, The true worshipers, had a few precious souls added, but the false, a great number lost.
Friday evening at their prayer-meeting one of God’s little ones was there, and said they tried to read a chapter, but failed, also tried to sing but could not, and could not pray. She said she and one other woman prayed, that was all that was done. In another direction from here, are some sect people who were called on to pray for a dying woman, but could not utter a word. Truly, “she has become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.” “Victory is on Israels side, praise God for ever. Amen! and Amen!
Your sister, saved through the blood of the everlasting Covenant.
Emma A. Lyon.
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LIKE JESUS.
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By H. D. Martin.
BEHOLD; what manner of love, the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.
What manner of love was it; who can describe it? the Apostle did not undertake it, but he calls upon the world, and the Church, to look at it, wonder at it, what great love the Father hath bestowed upon us. He says, it doth not yet appear, what we shall be, but we know that when He shall appear, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
How do we know that we shall be like Him? because we are like Him now. In the next verse he says, “and every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as He is pure,” we are like Him.
In the next chapter he says, “God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgement, because as He is, so are we in this world.” If we are not like Him, we can never see Him as He is. If we are not like Him, we do not want to see Him, for God will be a consuming fire to those that are not like Him. Then if we are not like Him, we will he of those who will try to hide themselves in the dens and rocks of the mountains. “And say to the mountains, and rocks, fall on us and hide us from the face of Him that siteth upon the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb. For the great day of His wrath is come, and who shall be able to stand.” Only those who are like Him.
Then we will be able to say;
My weariness of life is gone,
Who live to serve my God alone;
And only Jesus know.
Your brother saved.
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SAINTS REST.
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Republic O. March 28 1885.
GOSPEL TRUMPET: – Enclosed please find $1.85cts as stated in your notice. You will still continue the TRUMPET, for I love the doctrine it teaches — “Holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.” It is worth advocating and holding on to. It is the sweetest rest I ever found or enjoyed. I prize it most, since in possession of it. It is my delight to hold up Christ that He may draw all men unto Him. Oh how easy and lovely the work, when we hearken to the words of Christ, and the teaching of His holy Spirit. We throw all the burden on Him. Oh I love to hold up Christ that souls may he brought to Him, there is no one that notices the testimony of the loved ones more closely than myself; and I find all in harmony with my own experience. It is pleasant and beautiful to dwell together in unity; having that constant fire in our souls, urging us into the service of the Master. How many there are just waiting to be led into this blessed rest. And how many there are who profess christianity that stand idle, not seeming to appreciate, the saying of the Apostle, to “Fear lest a promise being left us of entering into His rest any of you should seem to come short of it.” Let us be definite in our teaching, and lead all who really desire this blessed rest, into it. The language of Canaan is a peculiar one and no one can speak it and understand it unless they have entered the land, and in possession of it. I hope none will neglect entering this Blessed Rest; for then and only then are we fully qualified for the work of the Master; with Mighty Power, speaking as one having authority.
K. L. Stuart.
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Special Notice.
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Please, don’t send us any more 10ct, 5ct, or 4ct, postage stamps. (We cannot use them; they are a dead loss to us.) But send us twos, and ones.
Page 2
THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.
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A SEMI-MONTHLY HOLINESS JOURNAL
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DEFINITE, RADICAL, ANTI-SECTARIAN.
Sent Forth in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ
For the Purity and Unity of His Church,
the Defence of ALL His Truth,
And the Destruction, of Sect Babylon.
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D. S WARNER, and J. C. FISHER, — Editors.
J. C FISHER, — Publisher.
Wm. N. SMITH, — Business Agt.
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TERMS, $1.00. Per Year. In advance.
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All matter for publication must be sent to D. S. Warner.
All business communications, moneys etc, must be addressed to the GOSPEL TRUMPET.
Addrss, Williamston
Mich.
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Entered at the Post Office at Williamston. Ingham Co.
Mich., as second class matter.
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THE NEW TRACT,
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‘CHRIST IS THE BODY THE CHURCH.’
A tract containing scriptural proofs that Christ Himself is the Church, and the Church is Christ.
It is doing a glorious work. Many write favorably of the light it: is shedding. Orders are increasing; send on your orders.
Price ………. 10 cents.
One dozen copies ………. $1.00
Fifty copies ………. $3.50
Orders may be sent in postal note, or small amounts in two cent postage stamps.
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CAMP, AND OTHER MEETINGS.
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WE Publish the following list of Camp and Grove Meetings, and Assemblies, which is as well as we can lay out the work at present. If other meetings are desired, we will do the best we can to fill in between. Some of the following may, in the Lord’s providence require variations. Should the Lord raise up a little company of co-workers for each of us, we could get over more teritory by bolding at two places at the same time.
We will hold an Ordinance Meeting at Dimondale Mich; April 25, 26. nounce the time.
Beaver Dam, Kosciusko Go. Ind., Pentecost Meeting, May 22—24.
Bangor Mich., Gamp Meeting June 19-28.
If brethren there want this meeting they must respond soon as to whether they will tent, or we will recall the notice.
Gratiot Co. Mich. Camp, or Grove Meeting July 24, to Aug. 2.
Payne O., Grove meeting, Aug. 7—16.
Sandy Lake Pa., Camp Meeting, Aug. 21—31.
Jerry City O., Assembly Sept. 4—8.
Williamston Mich., Assembly, Friday, Sept, 24—28.
Beaver Dam Ind., Assembly Oct. 1—5.
Hunnewell Mo. Camp Meeting Oct. 9—19.
Mt Pleasant Iowa, or vicinity. Assembly, beginning Oct. 23,
Joseph & Daniel.
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ANOTHER NEW TRACT.
THE SABBATH,
—:OR:—
WHICH DAY TO KEEP.
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BIBLE Proofs that the change from the seventh, to the first day of the week, was made by the Lord Himself.
This tract contains 64 pages: the price is 25 cts. It has been longer coming forth than we anticipated, owing to hinderences heretofore mentioned: but we have done the best we could, to get it out sooner. God has enabled us to set forth the subject in the clear light of abundance of Scripture. Every soul that is delivered from the law heresy, is as much as one converted; for the law, propagated by the Saturnarian, is inseparably connected with bondage, sin and death. So every reader of the TRUMPET can glorify God in sending your orders for this Tract: read it and loan it. This will also be a good financial help to spread other matter for the Lord.
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Send us a new Subscriber.
TO THIS DEAR SAINTS GREETING.
—o—
Williamton Mich., Apr. 15, ’85.
Dearly beloved saints, and readers of the GOSPEL TRUMPET: – May God bless you all. I wish to write a few words of encouragement to you, on this the aniversary day of the publication of the Trumpet in Michigan. And we ask you to join with us in prayer, and thanks giving to God for His unlimited blessings, both temporal and spiritual, during the past year. Let us pray that He will continue His blessings and that greater results may be realized during the coming year. He hath blessed His cause, His people, His press, and His ministers. God is with us; He is leading. Every where the truth is being accepted, and the light is spreading: hungry and thirsty souls are being satisfied. “For in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert, and the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water.” Thus saith the Lord, who hath and will bring it to pass.
We start out this year with brighter prospect, than ever before. We have nearly one thousand solid paying subscribers, with a steady increase. We can publish it weekly at $1.50 per year, as soon as the circulation reaches 2000. We are about to purchase an engine which will cost $200 which will be a great saving of time, labor and expense. We order to-day a perfect out-fit of note type, and other type necessary to print our long needed, and looked for song book: which will take some time, however, before we can get it out, as there is much work and expense to be laid out. We feel to thank those dear saints who have responded to the propositions of Bros. Coon and Gildersleeve, for their readiness, and willingness to assist in this great work of saving souls; verily they shall not loose their reward. It will be well to here state how many have responded to the propositions refered to, and the amounts received. To the first, Bro. Coon’s proposition, sixteen have responded, and paid the amount of $19.70. To Bro. Gildersleeve’s proposition, seven have responded, including himself, amount paid, $36.00. Total amount on both propositions $55.00.
We are still envolved, and need your assistance. We feel that there are many dear souls, who feel led of the Lord to contribute aid for the relief of His cause, who have not as yet been able to do so. Therefore let all such continue to send in without reference to time, doing the will of the Lord, and He will abundantly bless you.
Joseph.
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Ordinance Meeting at Dimondale Mich.
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LET all the saints that can, rally for a heavenly feast of fat things with the dear saints at Dimondale, five miles from Lansing, on the Mich. Southern R. R. Saturday and Sabbath Apr. 25th and 26th. A number expect to go from here. We hope to meet the little ones from Battle Creek, and from every direction. It is expected that a number will follow the example and command of Christ in baptism. Come together in pentecost fire.
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MISTAKES.
A few mistakes occur near the close of column two, page one of last TRUMPET, that need correcting.
“This writhing or twisting of the Scriptures,” should read, “this wything.”
“Is too staring to be hid,” should be, glaring.
“This living with,” should be “lying with.”
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EARLY PERSECUTIONS.
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BE sure and read the martyrdom of Polycarp, in this paper. People that think they suffer persecution in our day, will do well to compare notes with these ancient records. We purpose to give our readers some more of the wonderful records of the early saints, as the Lord leads, feeling assured that all will be interested and strengthened thereby.
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Is your sanctification a reality? Are you indeed dead? Or do you sometimes feel the old nature stir in you. If so why do you testify directly, or indirectly, that you are sanctified. Be honest, confess that the old man still lives, then go down into death, and everlasting distruction of all sin. Amen!
THE MARTYRDOM OP POLYCARP, WITH OTHERS AT SMYRNA.
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AT this time, as there were the greatest persecutions excited in Asia. Polycarp ended his life by martyrdom.
But I consider it all important also to record his end in this history, as it is handed down in writings still extant. There is however, an epistle of the Church which he superintended, to the churches of Pontus, which shows what befell him, in the following words: “The Church of God at Smyrna, to that of Philomelius, and to all parts of the Holy Church everywhere, mercy, peace, and the love of God the Father, and of our Lord Jesus Christ, be multiplied. We have written to you, brethren, the circumstances respecting the martyrs, and the blessed Polycarp, who as if sealing it with his martyrdom has also put a stop to the persecution.”
After these, before the account of Polycarp’s death, they gave the account of the other martyrs, and show the firmness they evinced against the tortures they endured. “For, say they, “those standing around, were struck with amazement, at seeing them lacerated with scourges, to their very blood and arteries, so that now the flesh concealed in the very inmost parts of the body, and the bowels themselves were exposed to view. Then they were laid upon conch shells from the sea, and on sharp heads, and points of spears on the ground, and after passing through every kind of punishment and torment, were at last thrown as food to wild beasts.
But they relate that Germanicus, a most nodle youth, was particularly eminent as a martyr; who strengthened by divine grace, overcame the natural dread of death implanted in us; although the proconsul was desirous of persuading him, and urged him from considerations of his youth, and entreated him, that as he was so very, young and blooming he should take compassion on himself. He however, hesitated not, but eagerly irritated the wild beast against him, all but forcing, and stimulating him, that he might the sooner be freed from this unjust and lawless generation. On the glorious death of this one, the whole multitude amazed at the courage of the pious martyr, and at the fortitude of the whole race of Christians, began to cry out “Away with the wicked fellows, let Polycarp be sought.” A very great tumult arising in consequence of these outcries, a certain Phrygian, Quintus by name, who had recently come from Phrygia, seeing the beasts, and the additional tortures threatened, was so overcome by fear and shaken in his resolution, that he finally gave up his salvation.
The contents of the afore said epistle, shows that this man had frowardly rushed forward to the tribunal with others, and not in a modest retiring manner; and yet when seized, he gave a manifest proof to all, that it is not proper for those in this situation, to brave danger by rushing blindly and rashly upon it. Thus far, however, respecting these.
But the admirable Polycarp, hearing these things at first, continued unmoved, perserving his firm, and unshaken mind, and had determined to remain there in the city. But persuaded by the entreaties of those around him, and exhorting him to leave the city secretly, he went forth to a farm not far from it. There he stayed with a few friends, night and day engaged in nothing but constant prayer to the Lord, and imploring peace for all the Churches throughout the world. For this had always been his practice. In this situation, three days before he was seized, in a vision at night, and during prayer, the pillow under his head seemed to him to suddenly take fire, and thus to be consumed. On this, waking out of his sleep, he immediately began to interpret the vision to those present, almost fortelling the event that was about to take place, and plainly declaring to those around him that it would be necessary for him to give up his life in the flames for Christ’s sake.
Those however, that were in search of him, making every effort to discover him; he was again constrained by the affection and love of the brethren, to go away to another part of the country. Thither the pursuers came upon him not long after, and caught two boys there, one of which they scourged in order to direct them to the retreat of Polycarp. Entering upon him at a late hour of the day, they found him indeed resting in an upper room, whence, although he might easily have escaped to another house, he would not, saving: “The Lord’s will be done,” and having understood also that they were come, as it is said, he descended and addressed the men with a very cheerfull, and mild countenance, so that those who did not know him before, thought they beheld a miracle, as they beheld the advanced age of the man, the gravity, and firmness of his countenance, and were surprised that so much zeal should be exercised to seize a venerable old man like this. He however, without hesitation, ordered a table to be immediately prepared for the men; then requests them to partake of food largely, and begged of them only one hour, that he might pray undisturbed. As they gave him permission, he arose and prayed, so full of the grace of the Lord, that those present who heared him were amazed, and many of them now repented that so venerable and pious a man should be put to death. Beside these things, the above mentioned epistle respecting him pursues the narrative as follows.
“But after he had ended praying, and had in this remembered all that had ever been coneected with him, small and great, noble and obscure, and the whole Church throughout the world, when the hour came for him to go, they placed him upon an ass and conducted him to the city, it being a great Sabbath-day.* He was met by Herod, who was the irenarch, and his father Nicetes; who, taking him into their vehicle, persuaded him to take a seat with them, and said, “For what harm is there in saying Lord Cesar, and to sacrifice and thus save your life?” He however, did not at first make any reply; but as they persevered, he said, “I shall not do what you advise me.” Failing therefore to persuade him, they uttered dreadful language, and thrust him down from the car with great vehemence, so that as he decended from the car he sprained his thigh. But not at all moved from his purpose, as if nothing had happened, he eagerly went on, and was conducted to the stadium. But as there was so great an uproar in the place that not many, could hear, a voice came from heaven to Polycarp as he entered the stadium; “Be strong polycarp, and contend manfully.”
No one saw who it was that spoke, but the voice itself was heard by many of our brethren. When he was led forward, however, a great tumult arose among those who heard that Polycarp was taken.
At length, as he advanced, the proconsul asked him whether he was Polycarp, and he answering that he was, he persuaded him to renounce Christ, saving “have a regard for your age,” and adding similar expressions, such as is usual for them to say, he said, “swear by the genius of Cesar. Repent; say, “away with those that deny the gods.” But Polycarp with a countenanc grave and serius, and contemplating the whole multitud that were collected in the stadium; beckoned with his hand to them, and with a sigh looked up to heaven, and said, “Away with the impious.” As the governor however, continued to urge him, and said, “swear, and I will dismiss you. Revile Christ;” Polycarp replied, “Eighty and six years have I served Him, and he never did me wrong; and how can I now blaspheme my King that has saved me? The governor still continuing to urge him, and again saying, “Swear by the genius of Cesar. Said Polycarp, “If you are so vain as, to think that I should swear by the genius of Cesar, as you say, pretending not to know who I am, hear my free confession. I am a Christian. But as you wish to learn what the doctrine of Christianity is, grant me a day, and listen to me,” The proconsul said, “Persuade the people.”
Polycarp replied, “I have thought proper to give you a reason; for we have been taught to give magistrates and powers appointed by God, the honor that is due to them, as far as it does not injure us; but I do not concider those the proper ones before whom I should deliver my defence. The proconsul said, “I have wild beasts at hand, I will cast you to those unless you change your mind.” He answered, “call them. For we have no reason to repent from the better to the worse, but it is good to change from wickedness to virtue.” He again urged him.
“I will cause you to be consumed by fire, should you despise the beasts, and not change your mind. Polycarp answered, “You threaten fire that burns for a moment and is soon extinguished, for you know nothing of the judgement to come, and the fire of eternal punishment reserved for the wicked. But why do yon delay? bring what you wish.” Saying these and many other similar declarations, he was filled with confidence and joy, and his countenance was brightened with grace.
So that he not only continued undismayed at what was said to him, but on the contrary, the governor astonished, sent the herald to proclaim in the middle of the stadium, “Polycarp confesses that he is a Christian.” When this was declared by the herald, all the multitude, Gentiles, and Jews, dwelling at Smyrna, cried out, “This is that teacher of Asia, the father of the Christians; the destroyer of our gods; he that teaches multitudes not to sacrifice, not to worship.” Saying this, they cried out, and asked Philip the Asiarch,* to let loose a lion upon Polycarp. But he replied that he was not permitted, as he had already completed the exhibition of the chase in the ampitheater.
Then all cried out together, that Polycarp should be burnt alive. For it seemed necessary that the vision which he saw upon his pillow should be fulfilled; when seeing it on fire, while he prayed, he turned to those few faithful friends with him, and said prophetically, “I must be burnt alive.” These things were no sooner said than done. The crowd, however, forthwith collected wood and straw, from the shops and baths, especially the Jews, as usual, freely offered their service for this purpose. But when the pile was prepared, laying aside all his clothes, and loosing his girdle, he attempted also to take off his shoes, which he had not been in the habit of doing before, as he always had some one of the brethren that were soon at his side, and rivaled each other in their service to him. For he had always been treated with great respect on account of his exemplary life, even before his gray hairs. Presently the instruments prepared for the funeral pile, were applied to him. As they were also on the point of securing him with spikes, he said, “let me be thus. For He that gives me strength to bear the fire, will also give me power without being secured by you with these spikes, to remain unmoved on the pile.”
They, therefore did not nail him, but merely bound him to the stake. But he closing his hands behind him, and bound to the stake as a noble victim selected from the great flock, an acceptable sacrifice to Almighty God, said: “Father of thy well beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ, through whom we have received the knowledge of thee. The God of angels and powers, and all creation, and of all the family of the righteous, that live before Thee, I bless Thee that Thou hast thought me worthy of the present day, and hour, to have a share in the number of thy martyrs and in the cup of Christ, unto the resurrection of eternal life, both of the soul and body, in the incorruptible felicity of the Holy Spirit. Among whom may I be received in thy sight, this day, as a rich and acceptable sacrifice as thou the faithful and true God hast prepared, hast revealed and fulfilled. Wherefore, on this occount, and for all things I praise Thee, I bless Thee, I glorify Thee through the eternal high Priest, Jesus Christ, Thy well-beloved Son. Through whom glory be to Thee with Him in the Holy Ghost, both now and forever. Amen.”
After he had repeated amen, and finished his prayer, the executioners kindled the fire. And when it arose in great flames, we saw a miracle, those of us who were privileged to see it, and who, therefore were preserved to declare the facts to others. For the flames presented an appearance like an oven, as when the sails of a vessel are filled with the wind; and thus formed a wall around the body of the martyr. And he was in the midst, not like burning flesh, but like gold and silver purified in the furnace. We also preceived a fragrant odour, like the fumes of incense, or some other precious aromatic drugs. At length the wicked persecutors seeing that the body could not be consumed by fire, commanded the executioner to draw near to him and to plunge his sword into him; and when he had done this, such a quantity of blood gushed forth that the fire was extinguished. So that the whole multitude were astonished that such a difference should be made between the unbelievers and the elect, of whom this one, bishop of the Church at Smyrna, was the most admirable, apostolic, and prophetical teacher of our times.
For every word that he uttered, was either fulfilled or will yet be fulfilled. But that envious and malignant adversary, that wicked enemy of all the righteous, seeing the luster of his martyrdom, and his uniform walk and conversation, and him now crowned with the crown of immortality, and bearing off the indisputable prize, had provided that not even his
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corpse could be obtained by us, though many of us eagerly wished it, so as to have communion with the sacred body. Some therefore, secretly engaged Nicetas, the father of Herod and brother of Dalce, to go to the governor so as not to give the body, lest said they, abandoning him that was crucified, they should begin to worship this one. And this they said on the suggestion and urging of the Jews, who were also watching, and looking out whilst we were preparing to take him from the fire. Not knowing, however, that we can novel abandon Christ, who suffered for the salvation of those that are becoming saved from all the world, nor ever worship any other. For Him we worship as the Son of God. But the martyrs we deservedly love as the disciples and imitators of our Lord, on account of their exceeding love for their King and Master. Of whom may we only become true associates and fellow-disciples.
The centurion seeing the obstinacy of the Jews, placed him in the middle, and burnt it according to the custom of the gentiles. Thus, at last taking up his bones, more valuable than precious stones, and more tried than gold. We deposited them where it was proper they should be.
There, also, as far as we can, the Lord will grant us to collect and celebrate the natal day* of his martyrdom in joy and gladness, both in commemoration of those who finished their contest before, and to exercise and prepare those who shall hereafter.” Such is the account respecting the blessed Polycarp, who together with the twelve from Philadelphia, was crowned a martyr. Who, however, is rather mentioned alone by all, so that he is spoken of by the Gentiles in every place. Of such an end, then, was the admirable and apostolic Polycarp deemed worthy, according to the account which the brethren in Smyrna recorded in the epistle that we have quoted. In this same epistle also, respecting him other martyrdoms are recorded, which look place in the same city, and about the time of Policarp’s death. Among these also, was Metrodorus, a follower of Marcion’s error, but who appears to have been a presbyter, and who was committed to the flames.
A very celebrated martyr of those times was Pionius. These who feel inclined to know respecting him, we refer to that epistle that has been imbodied in the work on the ancient martyrs collected by us, in which is given a very full accunt of his particular confessions, of the freedom with which he spoke, of his defence of the faith before the rulers. Also his instructive exhortations; moreover his strong invitations to those that fell away under the temptation of persecutions, and the consolations which he presented to the brethren that came in to him in the prison, what excruciating tortures he also endured besides, when he was secured with the spikes, his firmness on the pile, and after all his extraordinary sufferings, sold his death. There are also, records extant of others that suffered martyrdom in Pergamus, a city of Asia. Of these we mention only Carpus and Papylus, and a woman named Agathonice; who, after many and illustrious testimonies given by them, gloriously finished their course.
– Eusebius’ Anient History.
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OUR DEPARTURE FROM MO.
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In company with Bro. and sister J. C. Myers. Friday, April 3d, we came over to Palmyra Mo, and was met by Bro. C. C. Myers, and conveyed to his place four miles in the country, where we held meetings, in a school-house, until the following Wednesday eve. The Lord worked powerfully on the hearts of the people.
Many were awakened, about their souls salvation. Several were saved. We enjoyed very much our stay with the kind family of Bro. and sister Myers. The Lord wonderfully baptized the dear sister especially with a baptism of suffering, and death, in the Spirit, for her children.
O the phangs of that death, no tongue can tell. God bless their dear kind children, we praise God that some of them gave their hearts to God. Also a daughter of Brother J. C. Myers, chose the dear Savior. May the Lord save and keep, them all. They were all melted to tears as we left. The prospects for a general revival, are very good in that locality. We expect to return and labor there, in connection with the proposed camp-meeting at Hunnewell, next fall.
Bro. Myers took us to Quincy Ill, where we book train Thursday evening, April 9th and reached home about the same time the 10th, having stopped over three hours at Chicago. Praise God, for His goodness to the children of men! bless God for the wonderfull age in which we live. How we can fly in the midst of heaven, having the ever-lasting Gospel.
The winter has been an unusual cold one, in the west and south. Much of the wheat in Iowa and Mo. looks very bad.
As we reach northern Ind. and Mich, wheat looks quite good.
What, a joyfull meeting of the dear saints, when we reached Willianston, nearly all of the beloved TRUMPET family, having been impressed of the Lord that we were coming that train, met us at the station. O praise God for such dear kind and loving saints. In a very short time our room was quite full of the beloved saints, and together we shouted the praises of God, and fell upon our knees and devoutly thanked God for His great love and mercy, in sparing all our lives, and giving us His full and free salvation. O glory! glory to God and the Lamb!
We found the little ones here all well, and many of them filled with the Spirit.
After greeting all the beloved that came in, we hied away to see our dear little Sidney: thank God he is well, and happy in his good home. His dear little heart was made glad with our coming.
We would love to have visited many dear saints in Missouri, but for the present, the will of God seemed to be that we should return home.
Daniel.
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HOLINESS IN NEBRASKA.
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I left home the 17th of March for Neb. Came by way of omaha. Met some of the Free Methodist’s, they were very sorry that I had jumped out of their sect pen; but God helped us to fire into the old rotten shell with His Word, holding up the one body, Christ Jesus being the head. Oh how the sect devil does fight, but praise our God; “The pure testimony discovers the dross, and Babylon trembles for fear of her loss.”
While in Omaha I went to hear Moody —the man that has such a wonderful reputation, but the Word tells me that Jesus made for Himself no reputation, and that the servant is not above his master, and “they that will live Godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” Brothers and sisters beware of popularity. I attended three services, and thought perhaps I might get some light on, how to lead souls to Christ; but no, nothing but surface work. Sweetish goodish popular with the masses seemed to be the beginning and end. Oh God, give us ministers, that carry the old Jerusalem fire.
On the 19 I left for Doniphan, about one hundred and fifty miles west of the Mo. River, and not far from the Platte River. Here I met Bros. Warford and Wyatt, who were in the midst of a grand revival of salvation. The devil wonderfully stirred, professed sect preachers ranting, for their little sheep pens could not hold the sheep.
When they saw the salt they had been wanting so long, they did not waste much time in getting into the Lord,s big pasture. God help the sect preachers to salt their sheep if they want to keep them. 28 were saved in this meeting. Went from there to Hastings and found the band there all on fire for God. It numbers about 40, most of whom are real pilgrims who are taking the straight way. They will build a holiness church soon. I went to Hartwell, 20 miles from Hastings, and here I met one of the most blessed pilgrim bands I ever saw or heard of. Oh how free they are and what power. Would to God all the pilgrims in Iowa and Mo. could he in their meetings once a week. I bless God that I ever came west. God willing I will preach for these three hands this summer. I believe the holiness work in Mo. and Iowa is getting in the ruts of formality, may God wake up the evangelists and workers, and if you find things on your hands are becoming stale, for Jesus sake get where God will make your preaching have some edge. Well, glory to God I am saved to-day as never before. God sanctifies me wholly, and I am out on the line with no compromise with the devil or any of his false ways.
J. M. Hogue.
Good Way
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Special Notice.
—:o:—
Please, don’t send us any more 10ct, 5ct, or 4ct, postage stamps. (We cannot use them; they are a dead loss to us.) But we can us twos, and ones.
SHALL THE SAINTS STAY IN HER?
BY A. B. GILDERSLEEVE.
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I was told we should remain in the sects, and oppose their sin, and hypocrisy. I answered, the land is full of murder and all kinds of wickedness: it is because of infidelity, and infidelity is the natural fruit of the hypocritical sects, “the pompous empty frauds.” The world has no confidence in them, and naturally loose confidence in the Bible they profess to belive. The dead, sect mock and sneer at true and holy Saints of God, and at the real Word of God. When the sects deny the power of God, will not the world deny God? The men of this world are forced to denouce the whole sect city of confusion, as a whitewashed fraud. They see no real power nor virtue in sect religion, nothing but empty show, nothing to commend the religion they prfess, hence they are led into scepticism, and disgust for the Bible; and that opens the flood-gates of all manner of vice.
The sect teachers say, “miracles are over with.” Well they are over with them because they are all over the line, on the side of the world. Miracles are the work of God, so when men are without God, they are without real miracles. Nevertheless God is, and is with His true saints, and performing miracles outside of sectism, to undo what corruption is doing in her. “Jesus could not do many mighty miracles in Nazareth, because of their unbelief.” So the general infidelity that the false sectraian teachers have created in the world, gretly “limits the holy one of Israel,” and every where tends to dam up the flow of salvation to this earth But God is raising up instruments in whom He is creating a force of faith, and divine vehemence that is able to tear channels of divine mercy through these sect obstructions.
Nothing can be clearer than the fact that the sects are organized forces, arraid by satan against the real power and work of God. And is it the duty of holy men to remain in such antichrist corporations? What saith the Word? “From such withdraw thyself.” ‘‘For what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? — 2 Cor. 6. Professing to oppose the world they conform to it. Professing a religion that makes men honest in business, humble in spirit, and patient in life, they are defrauding in deal, and proud is spirit, and irritable in temper. Instead of benevolent, they are greedy. Instead of being kind, they are cold hearted and oppressive. Just the oppsite to the Spirit of Christ; they are selfish and arristocratic. And supposing that their character is derived from the Bible, what else could we expect but that the world should reject the Bible. Now what can we do to save the blinded world, but come out of the corrupt sects, and show the world that Christ, and God, and the Bible are against the sects, which do not represent God at all; then when the true saints stand outside of her, the world will learn to separate the character of Christ, and the influenc of the Bible, from these sects, their infidelity will disappear, and Christ will gain hearts to Him, that have been driven away by His enemies, in the cloak of His professed friends. Therefore come out of her.
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MT MORIAH MO.
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I want to say to the glory of God that we are still walking in the light as the Lord gives it to us. And the more we walk in truth, the more light and freedom we have. It is good to walk in the “good old way,” and we are assured by the Word that it is better on before. Praise the Lord! There are quite a number of christians in this county that are out and free from all sects or denominations. I believe that some others would be if they knew just how. We are asking the Lord to send us a pastor that is just as free as we are. I believe that if some one would come here and work for the Lord in the saving of souls, he would find a support. There is a house and stable and an acre of ground could be had by some Spirit baptized, wholly sanctified preacher. Now if any one feels led this way, I would like to hear from them at once. We want some one to come to stay as long as the Lord wants him to. Yours washed in the blood.
John S. Wright.
— Good Way.
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We praise God for the above testimony. God bless those saints. We suggest to them, Keep your eye on the chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ, the Bishop of your soul, He is able to feed you and keep you. Do not take it in your hands to arrange for any one to stay with you as your pastor. A pastor, according to the Scripture, is simply one that is hissed with a special gift in the ministry, of watering the plants and feeding the sheep. It does not imply that be is located at one place, or has charge over one or more congregations. No, that is babylon works. Remember that Christ is your head. He knows just what you need. Commit all your ways to Him. As oft as He gives you preaching, thank Him and as long as He leaves you without preaching, thank Him for that. Fret not thyself in any wise to get one to assume the sect prerogative of pastor over you. God’s pastors, are under Christ’s commission to ‘go’ — ‘go into all the World,’ as much as the revivalist. God’s true instruments ard kept “running to and fro, and many shall be purified, made white and tried.” If he is God’s man, you get him out of order by tying him to you. If he is not God’s man, you are better off without him. Leave God’s men free, and you remain free. But co-opporate with true men that God sends to you.
Daniel.
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BELYING THE SON OR GOD.
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THERE is a little sour, graceles sheet, issued by D. Elder, at Fairmount Ind. that is guilty of more directly lying against Jesus Christ, than any infidel paper that we ever saw. We do not believe that there could be found in a wagon load of Infidel Atheistic, and beer and whiky advocating sheets, a more possitive falsehood against the Lord Jesus, than the following sentence in D. Elder’s little sheet of Feb. 2. “Christ never commanded earthly water baptism, nor bread and wine eating and drinking, nor feet-washing ceremonies.”
Now does not that man know that every person that reads these words, and ever read the New Testament, must see that they contain, a contradiction of God’s Word? Is the foolish man crazy, or does he think that all parsons that read his grumbling sheet never read the Bible, or has he never read the Bible himself? Either one of those must be the case, or else he is so infatuated with, his abominable quaker idol, and made reckless by the quaker devil, that he has lost all fear of God, and regard for his word. It is recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, that Christ “Took bread and gave thanks, and break it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: THIS DO in remembrance of me. Likewise the cup alter supper, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you.” — Luke 22:19, 20. Giving the bread and wine to the disciples. He said, “THIS DO.” Elder says Christ never commanded them to do any such thing. Will a man lie against the Son of God? Twenty seven years after Christ instituted this commandment, Paul “praised the Corinthian brethren because they were followers of him even as he was of Christ, in that they had kept the “ordinances as he had delivered them unto them.” 1 Cor. 11:1, 2. And in the same chapter he says, “For I have received from the Lord that which also I have delivered unto you. That the Lord Jesus the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread: and when He had given thanks. He brake it, and said, take eat; this is my body, which is broken for you: THIS DO in remembrance of me. “After the same manner also the cup,” etc, “This DO YE, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.” Paul affirms that he received the ordinance of the Lod’s supper, with others, from the Lord Jesus. But Elder says Christ never commanded it. So either Paul is a false witness, or Elder is. But fortunately the Apostle is corroborated by Christ Himself, as recorded by Matthew, Mark and Luke. And though Ehler is corroborated by L. H. Johnson. A. M. Raper, and the Quaker sect, these are all proved false witnesses, because they do not agree mong themselves, and because they came into the world too late to be witnesses of what Christ commanded, or did not. Therefore the word of the Lord is true, and every teacher of quakerism false.
“Christ never commanded earthly water baptism.” Was it earthly water, or heavenly water in which Christ was baptized? Is the river Jordan located on earth or in heaven? “Christ made and baptized more disciples than John:” did He not use the same kind of water John did? “earthly water?” What kind of water did Peter allude to at the house of Cornelius? “Can any man forbid water that these should not be baptized which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we. And he commanded them to be baptized.” Does D. Elder think he knows better what Christ commanded, at a distance of 1850 years from Him; and still farther off in spirit, than Peter and all the rest of the apostles did, who heard all His teaching, were filled with His Spirit and practiced, under the leading of the Spirit, baptism in “earthly water,” to the end of their life? Why did they baptize in water? Because Christ taught them by example to thus fulfill all righteousness,” and by positive command in the commission He made it obligatory to “the end of the world.”
As to the washing of feet, either that foolish man has never read John 13, or else he knew he was falsifying the Scriptures. He says Christ never commanded it. “Christ says I have given you an example that ye should do” that very thing.
Daniel.
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Latest News from the Field.
—:o:—
Palmyra. Mo.
Leaving a little band, at Hunewell, Mo, all much strengthened in the Spirit, we came to Palmyra April 3d, was met by dear bro. C. C. Myers who took us to his house four miles in the Country. We find a very beautifull country about Hanibal, and Palmyra. We praise God for the beautiful valleys, and high rounding bluffs. Bro. Myers is located on the brink of the high table lands, overlooking the beautiful valley of South River, which in sight of here merges into the valley of the Missippi River. We can look across the valley of the great and beautiful River, to the highlands on the Ill. side, and see houses 10 and 12 miles away. To the north-east of us we can see the City of Quincy, on the Ill. bluffs. At night it is a beautiful scene, to see the long row of electric lights in the City, a distance of about 10 miles direct.
How true the works of Jesus, “Ye are a city that is set upon a hill, the light thereof canot be hid.” Where the light of God is in the soul it canot be hid, but will blaze out through this dark world, for a distance of more than ten miles. Praise God for the light and fire from heaven. “Ye are the light of the world.” O “let your light so shine,” that poor souls in darkness may see it, and glorify God.
We have held meeting in a small school house each evening since we come here, and on the Lord’s day. God is working mightily here, especially in the family of our dear Bro. Myers. The second evening, after returning home from meeting, in family worship, Sister Myers received a powerful baptism of the Holy Spirit, and their dear little son Benjamin gave his heart to Jesus. A dear young man from Palmyra, who had been raised a catholic, walked a long with Bro. Joseph and I, sab. morning to the school-house, smoking his pipe; God convicted him that day, and still more powerfully at night, Last evening he came back again praisimg God, having found Him of whom Moses and the Prophets wrote, Jesus the blessed Savior. He spake in much earnestness to the people, and we doubt not that God, will make him a mighty instrument, a flame of fire. Last night Bro Myers, oldest son also a married young, man gave His heart to God, and received pardon.
Praise the Lord! we expact to return home this week.
Daniel
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Pine Creek Mich. April 3d 1885.
Dear Brethren: — I praise God just now for a full and free salvation, that saves to the uttermost. O how I love this fulness! He blesses me every day and hour.
Praise His name! I see by the papers that scriptural holiness, is spreding all over the world, like wild fire. May God speed it on, till it covereth the earth, as the water cover the great deep. I will give my voice, to help sound it from shore, to shore. I will sing it, pray it, and teach it, while I have breath; and then when my breath is lost in debth, I will go over the river, and in a nobler sweeter voice, I will sing and shout to God, and the Lamb for ever. “Glory to God in the highest peace on earth and good will to men.”
Pray for unworthy me.
I. P. Gregg
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THE SAINTS FAREWELL.
2 Cor. 13:11.
WORDS AND MUSIC BY J. C. FISHER.
—:o:—
Dear Brethren I must leave you now,
Though painful it may be,
When e’er in fervent prayer you bow,
O then remember me.
Chorus: – By the grace of God, we will meet at home, —
By the help of God, we will come, –
You have my heart, and here’s my hand
To meet you in that Heavenly Land
O how the parting gives us pain,
While glistening tear drops fall,
And if we never meet again,
God knows I love you all.
We press the hand, with hearts so full,
Of love that cannot die,
Beyond where surges cease to roll,
We’ll meet you by and by.
Immortal hands, in blood washed bands,
We’ll clasp in robes of White,
Where all our souls are free from pangs,
Of sorrow pain or night;
O Brethren will you meet us there,
If here we meet no more?
How sweet will be the greeting where,
Our parting will be o’er.
Note. No one has a right to publish this song without permision of the Author.
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PRISONERS FOR CHRIST.
—:o:—
South Haven Mich. April 2 1885.
Dear Brethren: — I am so glad that I have this privilege of writing my testimony for the Lord, while in prison for Christ’s sake. Praise the Lord! Sister Barner and I went to a sect funeral and praised the Lord in a whisper, to each other, and they arrested us for it. I do praise the Lord that I am counted worthy to be a prisoner, for Christ’s sake. I know that I have got salvation that saves me, though all hell rage against my soul. I know I shall stand; because “greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.”
I have been filled with the spirit all the time; praise the Lord O my soul!! I have not got one particle of envy, or strife, or malice or any such thing in my heart. Glory! God has taken it all away. I can pray for my enemies with all my heart; praise Jesus! I know that I am sanctified, washed and redeemed, through the Saviour’s blood. Oh how much I do praise God for this wonderfull salvation.
I am your Sister saved and sanctified by the Holy Ghost.
Lucy Cobb
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South Haven Mich. April 2 1885.
Dear Brethren: — I praise God for this privilege of writing to you, and letting you know that I am gloriously saved and kept by the power of God, “through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” I praise God this morning, for what He has done for me. Praise His holy name, for ever and ever! Dear ones this morning as I write, I and Sister Cobb are prisoners, for praising God at a sect funeral. We went there out of respect for the dead — not thinking of disturbing any one; but think the very praises of God’s little ones, disturb the sect devil. The poor man that arested us, is a sinner, but he is drunk on sect wine. Well praise God that I am counted worthy, to be prosecuted for Christ’s sake. Well praise God I am saved, and sanctified, washed and redeemed, through the precious blood of Jesus. Amen!
Your Sister in Christ,
Emily Barner.
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Correspondence.
—:o:—
Wakarusa Ind. Jan. 11th, 1885.
Dear Brethren: — And all the saints, greeting. I am happy to say this, my 51st birth-day, tha I am trusting God, and He saves, and keeps me, to the perfect day.
Twentyeight years ago, God, for Christ sake, pardoned all my sins. I was taken into the Methodist sect, which became very cold, and dead. The last ten years, I had scarcely any spiritual food.
Eight years ago, I joined the United Mennonites, which in a few years added Evangelic to their big name; and now, they have changed to Mennonite Brethren in Christ. Thank God! to day I stand free, joined only to the body of Christ, the true Church. A brother asked me where I would make my home, I told him that I dwelt “with Christ in God,” and with all who love God with a pure heart.
I do praise God, that all who have the Spirit of God, compose the glorious Church or body of Christ. His Church, which is represented as a Bride, adorned in pure white linen, “without spot or wrinkle.” and “the fine linen is the righteousness of the saints.”
It is an awful fact, that the babylon sects, are fallen from God, into sin and pride, and a clammor for filthy lucre, and have no regard for the salvation of souls, but only for members and the spoils.
Surely it is enough to cause men of God to raise their voices like a TRUMPET, and warn the people to flee out of her, lest they be partakers of her sins, and receive of her plagues. Now we pray, that as men of God, we may be baptized with the power of the Holy Spirit and fire, to wield the Sword of the Spirit, that blood- bought souls may be redeemed, and made wise unto perfect salvation, without which none shall escape the wrath of God.
“Praise the Lord O my soul, and all that is within me praise His holy name.”
Six years ago last September, I sought and obtained by faith, the second application of divine salvation. Since then I give glory to God continually, for the wisdom and love of God that is manifested in His Word, through the Spirit.
O praise God for the gift of His Son. Hallelujah! again, and again.
I also want to say that I receive the TRUMPET regularly, and love to read its glorious truths, and precious testimonies.
I was an eye witness, to what little sister Clara Thomas, said in her testimony, in the TRUMPET, about the preacher refusing to baptize her, lest he should displease her father. May the Lord keep the dear child.
Well we pray that many may find the true way of life, and walk in it. Doubtless there are yet, good honest souls in the sects, that will obey God and walk in the true light of God, when it comes to them, and they receive full salvation.
God speed the day when all who love God, shall be united in the sweet reign of Christ and His pure love.
Bro. Warner, I shall never forget your teaching at Hawpatch, and the prayer you offered for me, when you bade me good bye, after I had passed through the mock trial, for the gratification of an evil heart. Thank God your prayer is being answered. May God bless you in your labor of love. And may the blasts of God’s TRUMPET, make the whole land tremble; with the sound of God’s eternal truth, until error shall fall, and God’s watchmen shall see eye to eye.
Your brother, trusting in, and saved by the blood Divine.
R. E. Andrews.
—o—
Bucyrus O., Apr. 7th ’85.
Dear Brethren, and saints every-where: The Lord wants me to write to you again, to send you the glad news that He has a few saved little ones at, and near Bucyrus, although in the midst of false doctrines, and evil Spirits. Glory to God in the highest, for a salvation that keeps from all sin, and from evil spirits: instant in season and out of season. We have sanctified the Lord God in our hearts, and are always ready to give to every man that asketh us, a reason for the hope that is in us. Always abiding in Christ, and His words in us. Glory to God forever and ever! I am so glad that we have the same God that Elijah had. When we ask in faith, it shall be done. No victory ever won, compares with those won by faith. Every thing that is done, must be done with faith in the Spirit, and through the truth, (Thy Word is truth) in order to please God. God is ashamed of those who have no confidence in Him, and will not acknowledge them as His people. Mark 8:38.
We went to father Coutz’s to meeting last Sabbath: the Lord came in wonderful power, and converted 3 souls, and 2 others claimed the blessing of entire sanctification. We all praised the Lord for His wonderful deliverance from sir. We also praise Him that we still have the gift of healing. We exercise this gift whenever the opportunity is afforded us, and the people are being healed in body as well as soul, and it is done through the name of Jesus Christ cur Lord; to Him be all the glory. Hallelujah! We expect several here to follow the Savior to the river to be buried with Him in baptism, when convenient so to do. Those that be long to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, are saved from all sects and schisms, willing to follow the Lord in all of His commands; and the ordinances of God’s house. We expect to see God do greater things yet in Bucyrus, than has been done, in saving many precious souls. Praise His name!
John N. Slagle.
Tiffin Ohio, March 12th. 1885.
Dear Brethren: — I have been impressed, to write to you. Glory to God! I am so glad that Jesus, is able to save, and keep me every hour. Praise the Lord! Hallelujah!
I have the true light, and love, and O I am so hungry, to see some of God’s little ones, and to hear the true Gospel, preached; as I am not free from the sect.
I ask the prayers, of all that are in Christ Jesus, that I may walk in the true light, as God gives it to me. I am all alone in the City, no one to look to, for help, but Jesus. I love to read the GOSPEL TRUMPET, it feeds my soul. May God bless you; in publishing the truth.
Your sister, in Christ, saved and tried.
Emma Huffrey.
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath light with darkness?
And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth, with an infidel.
And what agreement hath the temple of God, with Idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in THEM, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.
Wherefore come out, from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 1st Cor. 6:14, 15, 16, 17.
Paul.
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Alpena Dakota, Mar. 8th, 1885.
Dear Brethren: — To all the saints greeting. I have been silent, some time; but wish to write again for the glory of God. I have been a reader of the TRUMPET, for some time, and I have learned some great lessons of truth through it, for which I thank God. The more I read the paper, the more I like it. The doctrine of entire sanctification, as a second work of grace, came to my notice 10 years after my conversion. I had joined the Free- Will Baptist sect, and a few years later, the so called Church of God. I was much blessed of God. But one day a friend said to me, “what do you think of this new religion, tins holiness doctrine.” I condemned it at once, and became a persecutor, ready to fight against it. But still I would read holiness papers, and often felt somewhat condemned. I began to pray over it, asking God to give me the true light. In His providence, I received Bro. Warners Bible Proofs of the second work of grace. I read and compared it with the Bible, and I became clearly convicted that there was a second work of grace taught in the Bible. Now I feel sorry for all I ever done against this way.
But God fargave me like He did Saul, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
I ask the prayers of all the holy brethren and sisters, for myself and wife, that we may be made pure and holy, and become true workers in the vineyard of the Lord.
We live in a beautiful country here, the weather is beautiful, and springlike. We have been sowing wheat for about 10 days.
It is a healthy country, rich and productive. We are not rich, but we would like to have some of God’s true messengers come here in God’s time, and we will do the best we can for them.
I do believe that the sect Spirit, is one of the greatest obstructions to the salvation of souls.
Pray for us. Your brother, and sister.
A. C. and C. Bigler.
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Shelby Ohio.
Dea Brrethren: — God bless you forevermore; and all God’s dear saints in MICH.
O my soul praises God for perfect love, through the blood of Christ. The good Lord blest my soul in reading your kind letter. O I do praise God for the prcious GOSPEL TRUMPET. O it is so sweet to my soul, to read of the precious good meetings, the work of salvation, and the glorious testimonies of the saints. I wish I could be with you in some of the meetings.
In my dreams, I am in the work with the saints. I long to see you all and join with you in praising God, and singing the songs of slavation. I praise the Lord, I am cleansed from all sin, and sanctified, redeemed and kept by the power of God, and walking in the light as God is in the light.
May the Lord keep you filled with the Spirit, and use you abundantly.
Your sister saved, and sanctified.
Emma C. Whitney.
Grand Junction Mich. Mar. 18.
Dear Brethren: — This morning finds us well and saved. I feel led to write; we went over to Lee school-house to meeting on Sabbath, and Bro. Grover spake to us, and it made quite a stir, and also went Sabbath evening to Bro. William Jones to prayer meeting, the house was full. The enemy was stirred and raged conciderable, but to no effect. Praise God for this wonderful salvation. Glory! Glory!! to His name! Two souls were born into the kingdom, and three more convicted. Oh praise Jesus for what He is doing for my family; He has saved three of my sons, two sanctified, one justified. Hallelujah! I am saved and sanctified. Glory be to Jesus for salvation that saves me from all sin just now. I am kept every day by the power of God. Oh how we would like to have some one come here and hold a meeting for a week or two. I think much good might be done. We would like Bro. Mikels to come here. May God’s will be done, not mine. I do praise his holy name that I am free from all sects; and have no “mark of the beast.” Oh hallelujah! to God for complete victory in my soul just now, over the world the flesh and the devil; and more than all, over the Saturday Sabbath. Glory! Glory!! be to God! Whosoever Christ has made free is free indeed. I want all the true children of God to pray for me that I may stand firm.
Your sister in Christ Jesus.
Mary C. Griffin.
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Adrain Pa. Jan. 16, 1885.
Dear Brother: — I was glad to hear from you. I have prayed the Lord to send you through our country. I have one of your Bible proofs of the second work of grace, and find it a blessed book. I know that God has a true people upon earth, who “have ceased from their own works as God did from His.” “For we that have believed do enter into rest.” Thank God! I know there is an eternal Sabbath rest for the soul, here in this world. May God help the faithful embassadors for God that preach the whole truth, to spread the precious truth all over the earth. I cannot pay a man that does not preach holiness. We will not “give our money for that which is not bread, nor our labor for that which satisfieth not.”
I like that proposition of Bro. Coon, and I hope many will respond.
Dear Brethren pray for me, that God may abundantly poor out His Spirit upon me, that our Lord Jesus may be glorified in my soul and body. Your Bro. in love.
Daniel Lasher.
—:o:—
Middletown Mo. 30 1885.
Editor, Gospel Trumpet: — You sent me one of your GOSPEL TRUMPETS, and I like it so well I want to get up a club for it. Please send me about 25 coppies.
Your brother cleansed from all sin, and sanctified wholly.
H. A. Caley.
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Battle Creek Mich. March 23.
Dear Brethren: — Glory to God for salvation in Jesus. He gives me victory in my soul just now, and often floods this earthen temple with glory from His throne, until it would seem that this vessel must break and free the enraptured Spirit, that would fly away to the realems of bliss. Glory be to Jesus! He does come down in our little meetings with so much power and love, that the little flock love to linger for hours to drink in the Spirit that hallows the place, and catch every smile that falls from Christ’s sweet beaming continance. Souls are being convicted, and we trust some will soon drink of the water of life freely. The little ones are growing stronger. We are all eagerly pressing forward to the land that is yet before us. Sister Hardenburg has experienced entire sanctification since you were here, and sister Hackett has recently found the Savior, and more are enquiring the way.
The Advents have been stirred up to great zeal in weaving the chains of the law about the necks of their victims, and plunging them deeper than ever in the mists and foggs of error. I pitty their bewildered blindness. They come round the saints like hungry, blood-thirsty wolves. Like the old beast, to whom they belong, they would “wear out the saints.” But God gives us boldness to deliver His messages to them. The Lord impresses me that Adventism, is one of the most devilish of all the antichrist horns of the beast. They, with all that hang to them are plunged deep in the mists and foggs of error, from which few will ever come forth to see the light of life.
Your sister saved and sanctified.
Anna K. Thomas.
WILLIVMSTON MICH., MAK. 31st ’85.
Dear Brethren and sisters in Christ: – The Lord leads me to write my experience for the TRUMPET; and to tell what He has done for me. Praise His holy name! He has saved me from all sin, and sanctified me wholly to do His will. It was one year ago I started in this good and glorious way; and have been serving and praising Him ever since. I am all given up to His will. O glory to God for His goodness to me, and my family. O how glorious it is to know we have a dear Savior to go to in every time of need. He has given me such faith that I can ask and receive any thing I need. I have been ailing for about two years, with a tumor in my side; I have been very bad for weeks: but the Lord said to me, why don’t you come and be healed; and then the enemy would say, you can’t be healed. One Sabbath morning when we was at meeting there was several being healed by the laying on of hands; and the Lord said to me again, now is your time, and I said Lord I will obey, for I know You will do as You have said in your precious Word. I obeyed and was healed of my desease. The Lord has made me sound and strong again. O praise His name forever and ever for healing my soul and body; by just simply asking. This salvation is so good to live by, and I know it will be good when we come to die, and know we have a home in heaven.
Just before we breath our last,
Just before we close our eyes,
We shall see the Angels bright,
Coming from the far off skies.
Shining crowns upon their heads,
Robes as white as snow they wear,
Harps of gold within their hands,
Music floating through the air.
Your sister.
Julia A. Butters.
—:o:—
Silver Lake Ind. March 16 85.
Dear Brethren: — I am very thankfull for this another privilege of testifying to the cleansing power of Jesus blood, and sweet comforting influence of the Holy Spirit. Praise the Lord O my Soul! for salvation full and free. I do thank the Lord for sending Bro. Warner and Brother and Sister Fisher to Beaver Dam’ and permiting wife and I to attend the meetings. We received a fresh supply of good things from the Lord.
We hail the welcome visits of the TRUMPET with more gladness than ever. Glory to Jesus.
I had my name on the U. B. sect book, but God lead me out of her. The members, professing Christ, had a frolick with the world, just before they began a protracted meeting. Of course the meeting proved a perfect failure. The preacher came home with me one night, and remained the next day. Instead of talking about heavenly things, and reading God’s holy Word, he amused himself by reading the childrens pictorial story book. I gave him a Trumpet to read, but soon the truth pierced him, and he cried out, “I would not have such a paper in my house.” He chewed tobacco, and nearly filled the spittoon with the nasty saliva. O the abomniation of such men taking God’s pure word in their mouths.
Your Brother washed in the blood of the Lamb,
S. M. Smith
—:o:—
Stonesborough Pa. March 23, 85.
Dear Brethren: — all glory to Jesus for life and salvation so free; I have entered the kingdom of Heaven, and Jesus saves me, even me. Praise God! I have salvation in my soul just now. Walking in the light “as God is in the light,” I am washed and redeemed from all sin. O glory, O glory, I do love my dear Jesus the best, He is mine and I am His.
I was at the meeting with the saints yesterday, and it was glorious to my soul.
In doing my duty, the Lord filled my soul to overflowing, beyond all I could think or ask, Blessed be His name forever and ever! I feel the glory in my soul just now, while I write. O glory! glory!! to God in the highest. O how I would like to do something to spread the pure Gospel of Christ, and will as soon as I can. I my heart is with you in this glorious work. May the Lord continue to bless you and make you strong, for the great work of the Lord, that is committed to you.
Pray for me. Your Sister saved and redeemed by the blood,
Jane Shaw.
—:o:—
Charlotte Mich. Apr. 6 85.
Dear Brethren: — My testimony to day is I am redeemned, I am redeemed, Hallelujah! I am getting nearer, still nearer, my God to the every day. I am way out in the great deep; no shoals sea-weed, nor sand — bars in sight; O Glory to God! Amen.