17 March 1892, Volume 12, Number 12.

Mr. Skeptical’s Experience.

MARTIN WELLS KNAPP.

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Part I. — “How he became an infidel.”
Part II. — “How he became converted.”

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PART I.

Since the question you have asked me
Why it is I “don’t believe,”
I will give a candid answer,
Though your feelings it may grieve.

Oft when young I read my Bible
And its teachings sounded plain,
But I looked for their reflection
In professors oft in vain.

Father was a strict professor,
Went to church without restraint;
But at home a perfect terror.
“Week-day sinner.” “Sunday saint.”

Deacon Puff, in tones sepulchral,
Was esteemed a power in prayer,
But would cheat a man in business
Oft “get mad” and sometimes swear.

“Sister Tryto,” so they called her,
Living just across the way,
Talked like fury of her neighbors;
“Lost her temper” every day.

Once I went to a class meeting
Just to hear what they would say;
Here they talked of “tribulations”
In a sad and doleful way.

Said they did the “things they shouldn’t,”
“Left, undone what they should do,”
But they “hoped to get the wages
That were to the faithful due!”

Talked about their “good desires,”
“Crooked paths,” and “wanderings” too,
“Hopes” of dodging wrath eternal
When at last their “trials” were through.

“My!” I thought, if that’s religion,
Guess that I have got it too,
For as sure as I’m a sinner
That is just the way I do”

Neighbor Partisan on Sunday,
Like a saint, to God would pray
For the coming of His kingdom,
But would vote the other way.

Steward Filthy talked with pathos
Of the heathen’s bitter woe,
But his money for tobacco
Ten to one would yearly go.

“Sister Pride,” they called her sister
Willful spumed her vows aside
And adorned in gold and sa in,
Sought in state to Heaven to ride.

If the joys and satisfactions
In religion so abound,
Can you tell me why professors
At the stage and dance are found?

Why the theater and circus
Claim so oft a larger share,
Than the missionary meeting
And the place of public prayer?

If by free-will giving only,
As the Bible oft declares.
You should meet your church expenses,
Whence your Frolics and your Fairs?

By the tricks and strange proceedings
You employ our gold to seek
We outsiders are persuaded
That your God is very weak.

If the “author of confusion”
God, your God, can never be,
Please inform me who the author
Of your “quartet choirs” can he.

Plaudit seeking, pleasure loving,
Heedless of the poor man’s cry,
Many ministers are famous
For their powers on — chicken-pie.

I have fished and hunted with them.
Listened to their stories droll,
But they seldom ever hinted
At the “peril” of my soul.

To my mind the Bible teaches
Certain things that man must do
To inherit life eternal,
And receive a spirit new.

But professors by their actions
Give to all of this the lie;
So I am an unbeliever,
Now you have the reasons why.

The above illustrates the effect which a false profession has on many unconverted people. While it is no real excuse for them, yet Satan often uses it to their ruin. It is a sad and wicked thing to be thus the occasion of their stumbling. Part II next week the Lord willing.

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Meekness.

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“SEEK ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgement; seek righteousness; seek meekness.” — Zeph. 2:3.

If there ever has been, or ever will be a need of God’s people searching the scriptures, it is now. How many commands there are in his holy word which many of the professed Christians know nothing about. How often as we preach the word we hear some say, I never knew that was in the Bible. What is the cause of all this? It is true that part of the word has been sealed up until the present time, and also that part of it has been hid during the dark and cloudy day, but it is also a fact that a great deal of the ignorance we see manifested today is simply because people neglect to make God’s word their study. The Bible is the cheapest book on earth, and even those that are too poor to buy one can have one given to them. In every public library and nearly every parlor we find it. No, it is not because you have no Bible but because you do not make it your study. We are commanded to search the scriptures, and nearly every one is acquainted with this command, but yet how few obey it. Oh! I pray God that all the saints may make God’s word more of a study than you ever lave before. Begin to explore it and you will be surprised to see what beauties there are in it. It is filled with important commands, and very precious promises from beginning to end; and one of the most important commands is, “Seek meekness.”

What is meekness? Webster says to be meek is to be mild, gentle, soft. Meekness, — mildness of temper, gentleness. Oh! dear readers, is this not an important command? Surely if ever there was a need of meekness it is to day. Go where you will, you hear harshness instead of meekness, and where one mild word is given, you will tear a hundred harsh and cruel ones; where one act of kindness is shown or one gentle hand is stretched out to help some one on their way or to lift up some poor discouraged one, there are many harsh words, many rash acts, and many feet to tread down those that have fallen. How many young men on account of harshness have seen driven from home and have fallen into sin and are now drunkards on the street! How many young women there are that have been driven from home by harshness instead of good advice, and loving and tender words! Many have been crushed by heartbreaking words and cruel actions, and have been driven into terrible vices from which few are ever saved; others have been driven to suicide and are to day in an awful hell beyond our reach forever. Oh parents! seek meekness. Practice it in all your actions and in all your words. If you must punish your child, use means that will have the best effect. But be sure that you yourselves are in a fit condition. I know that the whip is often needed; but in many instances it is not best to use it. I have seen gentle words accompanied with tears and prayers have more effect than the whip. “Children, obey your parents in the Lord.” How often unkind words or disobedience have brought trouble and sorrow to father and mother! How many nights they lie awake and pray for their wayward child! And then how many heartbroken mothers there are to day all on account of the cruelty of children! Dear children, the Bible says, “Honor thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long upon the land.” Help them all you can; use nothing but soft and gentle words. Be meek and gentle to your brothers and sisters. Paul counts meekness as one of the fruits of the Spirit. Read Gal. 5:25. So you see if we have the Spirit we will bear the fruit of meekness, and it is the will of God that we bear much fruit. Let us have the purging that we may bear more of the precious fruit of meekness.

“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 l am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” — Matt. 11:28, 29. Oh, what a precious example of meekness! Jesus is our example, and his grace is sufficient. Let us pattern after him in meekness. His mission on earth was to bind up the broken hearted; to proclaim liberty to the captives, and to open the prison to them that are bound; to give beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. All his life was a life of kindness, a life of tenderness, a life of sympathy. How many times we find him weeping and doing acts of kindness, healing the sick, raising the dead, giving sight to the blind, feeding the hungry; and in fact his whole life was a life of kind acts, a life of self denial, a life consecrated to the good of mankind. Then after all this he has given his life for us that we may be saved from our sins. He has promised to be with us through all this life, and all our afflictions, our trials and temptations; to supply us with all things needful in this life, and in the world to come life eternal. Oh dear ones, let us do as he has done. Let us not be selfish, but let us consecrate our life, our time, our means, our talents, our all as Jesus did, for the good of others. Go where we will, how many we see groping their way through darkness, trouble, misery, sickness, and sin! How many opportunity we have for doing good! Improve the time, dear ones, life is short. I have seen men that professed to be children of God turn a hungry man from their door, and even refuse him their barn as a shelter on a stormy night. Brethren, this is not the example Christ gave us. “Give to him that asketh thee, and him that would borrow of thee, turn not thou away.” We are commanded to feed our enemy. By so doing we are sure to touch his heart and heap coals of fire on his head. If you have an enemy, do him kindness. Oh dear ones, kindness is sure to win, but bitter words stir up anger. For the sake of Jesus our blessed example, for our own good, and for the sake of fallen humanity, let us with our whole heart seek, and practice Christian meekness.

Let us now lock at some of the commands in God’s word regarding meekness. The first we find in James 1:21. — “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word.” “Put on therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, for bearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” — Col. 3:12, 13. What precious scriptures! What elevating commands! Oh, I pray God that we may measure up to all of God’s word. God has an abundance of grace, and he has promised his grace to be sufficient. He says, Ask and ye shall receive: so let us ask him for grace to measure up to his word in meekness. “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love.” — Eph. 4:1, 2. Here we are commanded to walk in meekness, to let our daily walk show forth the meekness of the Master. “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? Let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.” “The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” — Jas. 3:13, 17. We are commanded to show meekness in our conversation. “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” — 1 Pet. 3:15. Let us as workers be very’ careful to answer every one (no matter whether they are seeking light or fighting against it) with meekness and fear. “And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth, and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” — 2 Tim. 2:24-26. Preach the word in meekness, and then leave the result with them and God; also let us instruct in meekness. It seems that about ail some can do is to thrash Babylon, and never give any instructions that the people can see anything better. They report and seem to boast of the devil being stirred, but no souls saved. Oh use meekness of wisdom in preaching and instruction! “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” — Gal. 6:1.

Let us look at some of the promises to the meek. The first we find in Psa. 147: 6. — “The Lord lifteth up the meek; he casteth the wicked down to the ground.” “The meek will he guide in judgment and the meek will he teach his way.” — Psa. 25:9. “The Lord taketh pleasure in his people; he will beautify the meek with salvation.” — Psa. 149:4. “The meek also shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the holy one of Israel.” — Isa. 29:19. Oh what precious promises! Dear ones, for Jesus’ sake, for the sake of perishing souls, and for our own good, let us seek, practice, and preach meekness as we never have before. Let us never be guilty of foolish talking or jesting, but show meekness to all men.

“Gentle words of patient kindness,
Though unheeded oft they seen,
To the fold of grace may gather
Souls of which we little dream.”

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

W. J. Henry.

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Two Works of Grace.

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THE more we examine the word of God in the original, and in other translations the more the proofs of the two works of divine grace in the heart multiply. Often the translators, not knowing anything of the two planes and degrees of Christian experience, did not bring out the force of the original. Looking at several different versions of Eph. 5:25-27 we were surprised to find such a beautiful and precise statement of the two successive works of grace there. Therefore we will give you the benefit of these translations. We quote first from John Wesley’s translation:

“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the church, and gave up himself for it: that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water through the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing: that it may be holy and unblameable.”

Two things had to precede the sanctification of the church. First, Christ had to offer himself up a sacrifice for it. “Jesus Christ that he might sanctify the people with his own blood suffered without the gate. — Heb. 13:12. Second, the church had to be cleansed by the washing of water through the word, as a preparatory work to entire sanctification. This agrees with Tit. 3:5; he saves us “ by the washing of regeneration and the renewal of the Holy Spirit.” The renewal is the same as entire sanctification, and is preceeded by regeneration, just as Wesley brings out Eph. 5:26, presenting two works of grace. If we did not have access to other translations and the Greek text itself, we might think the above translator had so rendered the word because of his belief of two works of grace. But we will let others speak who cannot be impeached with prejudice in favor of the two works of grace. As they all use about the same language on verses 25 and 27, the 26th verse will be all we need to quote. We will next introduce the Revised Version.

That he might sanctify it, having cleansed it with the washing of water with the word. — Eph. 5:26.

He gave himself for the church that he might sanctify it, having first cleansed it with the washing of water with the word. This takes our minds to John 3:5, “Born of water and of the Spirit.” Then followed the second grace.

A translation executed by a layman, and published in London, Eng., 1840, renders it thus: “That he might sanctify, having purified it by the washing of water, through his word.”

Here it is dearly brought out again. First having purified it by the washing of regeneration, it is to be sanctified wholly, which make two works of grace.

“That he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the bath of water through the word.” — H. T. Anderson.

“That he might sanctify her, having cleansed her with a bath of water, and with the word.” — James Mac- Knight.

“That he might sanctify it, having cleansed it with the washing of water, through the word preached.” — Wakefield.

“So that having purified her in the bath of water, he might sanctify her by the word.” — Emphatic Diaglott.

Here are now seven translations that clearly teach two works of grace in that one verse. A washing; namely, regeneration, first; second, sanctification. And by the last work the process of salvation reaches its glorious consummation; and in that state the church is ready to be presented to the Lord Jesus Christ, a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. — Ver. 27.

Other translations in our library present two works of grace in the same verse quoted, but all do not bring it out as distinctly as the above seven. A very precise following of the original gave rise to the uniformity of the above rendering. The direct word for word from the Greek, is as follows: “So that her he might sanctify, having cleansed in the bath of the water by a word.” Observe that in the Common version, sanctify, cleanse and the washing of water by the word are all used as denoting the same experience. But all those other versions make the washing of water, by (Greek in) the word, a separate work from sanctification, and a prerequisite experience to it. Thus bringing out the two works taught in the original text.

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THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.

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A WEEKLY HOLINESS JOURNAL.

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

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PUBLISHED AT GRAND JUNCTION, MICH.

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D. S. WARNER, – Editor.

E. E. BYBUM, – Office Editor.

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

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Address all letters to GOSPEL TRUMPET. Grand Junction, Mich.

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The Ordinance of Feet Washing.

The excellent work on this subject, written by Brother Bradley, has been reduced in price to 20 cents. It is a review of a tract written against this ordinance. A lively exposure of the false teaching of the opposer, and a very thorough vindication of the sacred ordinance of Christ. It contains 84 large pages, and gives much light. Price 20 cts. $1.90 a dozen. Order of the author, Bro. W. W. Bradley, Watkinsville, Miss or from this office.

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Must We Sin?

A conversation, giving Bible proofs that we must live free from sin. 48 pages. Single copy 2cts Per dozen, £0 cts. Per hundred, $1.50

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Why are you not a Christian? 30 for 10 cts.

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A new Tract, by Wm. G. Schell.

Setting forth the ordinances of the scripture in a clear light, showing which are abolished, and proving that the three ordinances instituted by Christ are not of the Old Testament, but of the New, and are still in vogue. Single copy 5 cts. Per dozen 45 cts.

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The Great Tobacco Sin.

It contains 30 pages, with a neat cover. We will send these tracts to any one sending us postage at the rate of one cent for three tracts. We make no charge for our work of making the tracts. Always state just how many you wish sent

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100 subjects with scripture, a concordance and definitions to subjects. Setting forth the true church, it doctrine, its ordinances and its fruits. The fall of Babylon and the coining in of the evening light. Illustrated. 316 pages, neatly bound in cloth. Single copy $1 00 six or more 80 cents each. For this book.

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REQUESTS FOR PRAYER.

Mother Kearns of Melrose, O. asks the prayers of all the saints Mar. the 20th, for the healing of her 29 year- old son of nervous spasms, which he has had from infancy, and which has caused him a great deal of suffering and almost entirely destroyed his mind. He has been entirely blind from his birth, and he has also lost his speech, but Mother Kearns has faith to believe and is convicted that he may be healed of spasms and relieved of his great distresses and sufferings. He is certainly a very pitiable object and he needs the sympathies and prayers of the saints as well as his mother. Let all pray for him at the appointed time. May the Lord have mercy upon them and heal him for Jesus’ sake and comfort the mother. Amen.

Yours in him,

F. N. Jacobson.

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Pray for Sister Hattie Skinner, and Bro. James E. Skinner, of Burden, Kan., that they may be healed of La- Grippe, and other afflictions.

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Dear Saints: I humbly ask you to pray for the salvation of my parents who are very aged.

Your saved sister,

Louisa Smith.

Attica, O.

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Pray for Sister Lucy Morisy, of Laud, Ind., that she may be healed of chronic diseases.

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I am afflicted with paralysis. O pray that I may be healed. I have laid aside all medicines and am trusting the Lord for all.

Your sister,

Lenorah Pope.

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Allegan, Mich.

Dear Brethren and Sisters in Christ: I am rejoicing in a free and full salvation. I am fully saved and trusting in Jesus. I request the prayers of all the saints for the healing of my body.

Your sister in Christ,

Mrs. C. Degroat.

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Vandalia ,Ill., March 15, 1892.

Dear Saints: This morning I am saved from sin. I have had the La- Grippe and it has made me very weak and nervous. I also have a very bad cough now. I do desire you all to pray for my healing at twelve o’clock on the 25th day of March.

Mary E. Hall.

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Bro. B. F. Clark, of Woodburn, Ore. writes that his wife has a cataract growing on her eye, and desires your prayers that the Lord may heal her. They also desire some one to come there and hold meeting.

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Please, dear saints, all pray for my sister, Katie Enfield, that she may be healed. She is on the Lord’s side and would like to be healed. Pray also that she may be fully saved, and her family.

M. B. Hallinyer.

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Pray earnestly for Sister Howard, for heart trouble. She is saved and sanctified and a good worker, and is hindered much on the account of her health. Pray that God may give her a sound body.

Your humble sister low down at Jesus’ feet.

Mary E. McPherson.

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CALLS FOR MEETINGS.

Eliza A. Munson, Whitesville, Montgomery Co., Ind., desires some holiness preacher to come to that place to hold a meeting.

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There is a large field open here for the gospel. Many good honest souls just groping their way through thick darkness. The Lord send some good holy man here who will stand up and preach the word in its purity. I believe there can be a great work done here in the name of the Lord.

Address Amos Moreland,
Marble, Madison Co., Kan.

EDITORIAL NOTES.

Brother and Sister Jacobson and Brother and Sister Rupert announce meeting at Salem, Clarion Co., Pa., March 14—20. After which they expect to go to Monterey, Pa. Come and help. Amen.

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Bro. W. J. Henry, writes from Hoppertown, Mich, The Lord willing we will commence meeting here Tuesday night, March 22d, and continue as long as he may direct; we expect a great work to be done, as there are several that are anxious for the truth. Pray for us, and whoever the Lord leads, come and help us; the meeting will be held in the school house.”

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German Literature.

Bro. C. Schleehauf of South Bend, Ind., has executed a translation of the tract, “Must we Sin,” into the German language, and sent the same to this office, and now his prayer is, and we join with him, “O that God may move upon the hearts of the brethren to purchase German type, that the glorious evening light may reach many of my own countrymen, and my mother tongue, who are now sitting in darkness, and groaning beneath the dreadful sect yoke.” Amen.

We trust God will move some of our German brethren to purchase the the type, and he will also find some one to set it.

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GRAND JUNCTION CAMP GROUND.

The general camp meeting in June will be held this year on the new camp ground near this place instead of at Bangor as heretofore. This will be a permanent place for camp meetings in the future. The grove will be to prepare, logs to cut and get to mill. A pavilion, boarding house, sleeping rooms, tents, etc, to build, all of which will require much labor, which needs to be attended to at once.

On Tuesday and Wednesday of each week will be the time set for work, and should those days be unfavorable, come on Thursdays and Fridays or come and spend the whole time in the service of the Lord. Perhaps some who would love to do something and cannot come, can help furnish provision for the laborers.

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Leave not too Soon.

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This is a swift to and fro running, an every where flying campaign. The messengers of God are on wing, and very often their stay is made short, because God desires every piece to have the pure light of the gospel whether they will walk in it or not, so that they can be saved, and if lost they will have to appear before the bar of final judgment without excuse. This rapid reformation was well expressed by an old brother in Pa, when we, for the first time, came there to hold a few meetings. Before services began the first night, a neighbor asked him, “Where are these preachers from?” The old brother replied that they were from every place under the whole heavens, except from that place, and they would soon be from there. This we say will describes the hurried nature of this spreading fire. But there are very important exceptions, in which God requires his ministers to hold on for thorough, extensive and immediate fruits of the gospel. When the Holy Spirit is mightily working, and hearts are hungry and melting down beneath the fire of God, unless some very special, or unavoidable circumstances call the laborers away, all good reason, the love of God, and sympathy for awakened souls surely demand that they remain right there while God is working and souls are coming to the Lord. We are “workers together with him,” hence should remain and work with him where he is effectually at work. Not only should the instruments of the Lord remain where people are daily yielding to God, but also we frequently receive reports like this, “Held meeting one week at . There was much darkness and prejudice removed from the minds of the people, God wrought mightily by his word and Spirit, and many were under deep conviction and were hungry for salvation. We trust a glorious harvest of souls can be gathered there in the future.” But low did it turn out? A year later another brother goes there, finds the same darkness thicker than ever, prejudice strong, and hearts hard. He works a week or more and reports the same results. “The country awakened, many receive the truth, prejudice swept away, and conviction on many hearts.” But before much is really accomplished, the time expires that they could have the house, and they are compelled to close, but hope a harvest of souls will soon be gathered there. We have a letter of this kind before us, and a year ago some brethren were there a short time, and the same effects were produced by the power of divine truth, but left to relapse into the same or worse condition. Now, beloved, this is a great waste of precious time. Why blow the bellows and heat the iron, and then throw it out to cool, and make nothing of it. Strike while the iron is hot. Strike with the hammer of truth and mold hearts for Heaven’s use. Too many have never gotten sufficiently into God’s hands that he can guide them with his eye. Some profess holiness yet seem to think they can go when and where they please, without any counsel from God. O dearly beloved, if you are the Lord’s you cannot get up and go when you please, and where you please. You cannot consult self, ease, the flesh, or gain. Never move to please yourself, nor yet to please men, except “for their good to edification.” There is great need of a closer walk with God on the part of many of his workers. A better knowledge of his will in all life’s duties. And how important that we have a deep natural care for perishing souls. Dear brethren, see to it that your labor is not largely lost by quitting too soon. The Lord bless his dear workers. Amen.

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Saved and Called.

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Dear Saints: I feel like witnessing for God through the Trumpet. Nearly eleven years ago God wonderfully saved my soul at home alone. One evening as I was reading the word, the 2d chapter of Timothy, I saw how people who professed ought, to live, and awoke to the fact that I was an old dead professor, a dead branch of a dead sect; and God so wonderfully convicted me then and there that I was led to cry mightily to him, “Be merciful to me a sinner.” All night long I prayed and agonized to the Lord for pardon. O if all sect members could see themselves as I saw myself, what a coming out there would be! At last near morning God spoke peace to my soul. Again I took up the word of God and read in Rev., “Come out of her, my people;” and I said from the depths of my soul, “I will.” Satan suggested, “What will the people of this town say? You have been a member of the M. E. church for many years.” And I turned and said, “Mr. Devil, I know I have, but I am out of Babylon now.” And so soon as settled it, I will come out, I will take the plain way, I will obey, it seemed as if a sheet as it were was let down before me, and an almost audible voice said to me, “ Sign this.” I said, “I will,” and I did. Little did I know then what it meant to consecrate to all I knew and to all I then did not know. O what glory came filling my soul! I shouted for joy, and bounded for the glory that was within me. O what heavenly beauty! I saw all was so changed. Then the Lord let me see the state of the congregation I had just separated from, and said “Warn them,” I said, “Yea, Lord, I will.”

I went on the following Thurs evening to their prayer meeting, and there obeyed the Lord. But I met with a coldness and a defiant spirit from pastor and people, saying I would be in the asylum in a short time unless I changed my course. But I was so filled with the blessed Holy Spirit I could not keep still. One wave after another came welling over my soul. After a few weeks of this wonderful filling I felt the call for the work. It was, “Go preach my gospel, saith the Lord.” Then I began to tremble and said, “Dear blessed Jesus, it can’t be you mean me; I have no talent.” But he showed me my cross and left me, so to speak, for two weeks. It seemed as it all was darkness. I could not eat or sleep quietly; my sleep was disturbed with visions of the lost in hell. I also saw that were I to disobey, more would be lost. I prayed earnestly that the cup might pass from me. God held me to the line, and one night the voice cried to me again, “This is the last call; now obey or you are forever lost.” I said, “Lord, I will,” and I did, and the same peace and gladness came flooding into my soul. I went to a Free Methodist camp meeting a few days after, and there the preachers began talking to me in regard to my having license. In a moment a voice said. “I have chosen thee, I have ordained thee, and lo, I am with thee, and will be to the end.” I said, “It’s enough: I have need of no more. I walked in the clear light of God a few days more, and then felt the conviction on me for the second work of grace. I was under such conviction I could do nothing but weep and pray to God to take out every root and branch he had not planted; and bless his holy name he did! And when the work was done I felt as empty as a cask with nothing in it, but I was sure the work was done. People talk of the blessing of holiness, etc.; truly it is a blessing, but it comes on the line of subtraction first. In a few days God sent the filling, and it seemed as if soul and body must part. Such a weight of glory filled my soul. Then I was ready to say, “Lord, here am I, send me.” O glory to God for this glorious way! I love it with all my heart. It is no drudging to do the work God calls us to do.

Last fall Sister Mattie Clark and I came to this place, and after New Years, awhile, we began holding meeting from house to house, and when at first there were only two or three doors open for meeting, in a short time there were as many places open as there were nights in the week. Then we prayed for help to come to us, and God sent two of his servants here, Bro’s Henry and Daugherty; and God is being glorified through them in the conviction and conversion of precious souls. Conviction rests on the people, and they are getting out in this evening light. I do praise God I have had the chance of hearing it preached, and glad that Babylon is out of me and I am out of her. Amidst all the persecutions I have had to endure, God wonderfully keeps me and gives me of the Spirit of the Master. I never was a captain of the Salvation Army as is so commonly reported here; never was connected; in any way with it. But I do belong to the church of the living God, the church of the first-born. Glory! glory! And it is glory all the way along. I am saved and sanctified.

Yours in Jesus,

Mrs. Mary Grote.

Otsego, Mich.

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The Image of the Beast.

Dear Gospel Trumpet: I have been impressed at times to write to the Trumpet very briefly of what the Lord revealed to me soon after I was saved. In the Gospel Trumpet of March 3, in her article upon “The faith of the gospel,” Sister Ellis asserts? that “the evening light must be as the morning light;” well if the lights are the same so will be the persecutions. This reminded me of what the Lord revealed to me, viz., that all the sects would very soon became one, although at the time I was given no scripture to confirm what was revealed to me. Yet I was confident that it would come to pass, because when he the Spirit of truth is come, he will guide you into all truth, and he will shew you things to come. John 16:13. I can understand clearly Paul’s

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request. Not to neglect the assembling of yourselves together, and so much the more as you see the day approaching. Heb. 10:25. For then shall be great tribulation,such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no,nor ever shall be. And except those days were shortened, there should no flesh be saved, but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened. In Rev. 13 we read of the first beast, another beast, and an image to the first beast. All who have accepted the evening light accept that the Roman Catholic sect is the first beast and that Protestantism is the other beast. But who is the image? According to Webster, an image is a likeness. We conclude then, that the image of the beast which had the wound by the sword, and did live (Roman Catholic sect), must be another powerful sect. This sect is to be formed by the second beast, Ver. 14. It is to be a live image, for it will be given breath by the second beast (ver. 15 margin). We shall soon hear him speak, for he shall both speak and cause that as many as will not worship it to be killed, and unless we have the Roman Catholic “mark” or “name” or “number” we can neither buy nor sell If any one doubts that this image will be made out of the sects, let him go into a sect meeting in any large city and distinguish a preacher from a priest except perhaps by his beard. Yes, the evening light will be as the morning light and the persecutions also. Let us wait until after the Christain (?) congress, Chicago, 1892. The beast and image are Gog and Magog, for “the earth helped the woman.” Amen. Praise the Lord!

Your saved brother,

John E. Roberts.

Note.

The above thoughts are in exact accordance with what God showed us by his Spirit some eleven years ago. It was in the Jacksonville, Ill. holiness convention, when the convention was making strong speeches against all who stood out of sects, and in favor of those apostate institutions. There God appeared to me in a very glorious manner and said. “They are now making the image of the beast.” I also understood that the image includes all associations gotten up in Protestantism, and upholding her, such as the Y. M. C. A., etc., which, with all holiness associations, requires its members to be in good standing in some sect. And of course the more perfect association of the sects to come will be the consummation of the image.

The fact that this third and last form of the apostasy, is to be an image of the first beast — Romanism, — though made by the second beast — Protestantism, — gives us ample warning that it will be intolerant, and even kill those that dissent from its scepter. In other words, it will be Protestantism (in name) joining hands with Rome. And already we see the fraternal tendencies of the wicked old mother and her corrupt daughters.

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NEWS FROM THE FIELD.

Hayden, Ind., Feb, 29, 1892.

Dear Saints: I happy this morning to be able to report the work of the Lord again in Southern Ind. I left my family and home Feb. 9, for New Albany, where we were met by our dear Bro. W. B. Shrieber who conveyed us to his home about five and half miles north west. Began meeting the same night at Galena. God was in the meeting in power from the first, and at every coming together the interest increased. The accomodations for warming the house were not sufficient to make it comfortable, and some of the kind brethren and sisters yet in Methodism took the responsibility on themselves and invited us to come and continue the meeting in the Methodist house, which invitation we accepted with much greatfulness. Some of those brethren and sisters have quite a good experience, but much opposed by their pastor and others. I pray God to bless them for their kindness to us, and help them to obey his call, “Come out of her [sect babylon] my people.” — Rev. 18:4. Many warm hearts were gained to the truth and we hope to hear of a good harvest of souls in that little town and vicinity in the near future. From Galena we return to Moorsville, Ind. and began meeting in the name of our Master, Feb. 19, and continued till the 25th, except one night. Some bitterly opposed the work at this place but the meeting was a glorious one throughout and the work of salvation went on in spite of the devil and all opposition. Souls were saved in their homes and in the meetings. In the second meeting an aged man, a minister, rose up and confessed with shame that he had opposed this doctrine (sanctification) to the bitter end, and had preached for twelve years a rotten doctrine, one that had no other tendency than to damn souls, and he feared that there was no hope for him. (Let all opposers take warning). Said his life was a blank and should he die in his present condition “On my slab this would be the inscription, ‘A lost soul.’ ” Afterwards in conversation he said he felt sure there was hope and expected to die trying, or get the experience. May God help him to strive lawfully and to remember that only they that strive lawfully are crowned. – See 2 Tim. 2:5. On Friday we resorted to a beautiful stream of water near the village, where we immersed eleven precious souls in the symbolic grave, and at 5 P. M. met at a private house, where, after reading and giving some instructions we observed the ordinances of God’s house in which fourteen or fifteen participated. Bro. Chas. Orr, of Tampico, Ind., came and remained to the close of the meetings, helping in the work of the Lord. I expect to go soon to Dodge, Ky. about the middle of April or the first of May, the Lord willing. Pray for us.

I desire through the Trumpet to thank the few brethren and sisters who have so kindly sent us some money and stamps by mail, and pray the dear Lord to richly reward you for the same. We remain your brother and sister saved in Jesus,

J. N. & M. J. Howard.

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Kenesaw, Neb., March 6, 1892.

Dear Beloved of the Lord: At home again, after an absence of over three months from my family. I found all well, and doing well. I can look back on the winter’s campaign with much pleasure. Every meeting has been a victory. Praise God! Souls saved every place we have been. The meeting at Neosho Falls was the hardest battle I most ever encountered, but it was a time of victory. We preached over two weeks before any one would even raise a hand for prayer, although they confessed it was the Bible truth. One said that we made every one that came feel like they were not Christians. I scarcely ever met a people that seemed so completely in the darkness of sect teaching, yet honest enough to attend and confess to the truth. Large attendance. Two were sanctified, but opposition became intense. I exposed all manner of ungodly abominations that are practiced by professors, even to secret societies, exposing the secrets of Masonry. Yet the day we left an old Mason and sinner said he was sorry we were going away and several others expressed the same. Many under conviction, but the hall was closed and we felt at liberty to leave. The foundation is laid for a work if some one can go there with tabernacle about July. I hope Bro. and Sister Cole will go there. We left four out straight for God. After resting awhile I expect to return to Southern Kan. The work is increasing and so many calls that I am loth to leave the West, but the hand of God is on me and I feel that I must move eastward. I feel the time has come to state to the dear saints abroad that I feel the time is near when God wants me to go to the foreign work, as I wrote before, and hope all who are in possession of the Lord’s means will do their part as he shall lead. I was most wonderfully impressed with the work in the beginning of the fall, and kept it to myself until I could no longer. I then wrote Bro. Warner; he immediately answered that he believed it was of the Lord, for several days ago he was fasting and praying and the foreign countries came before him. It seems it was about the same time I was so impressed. While I have to leave my family and all to go I am resigned for Jesus only. Let all do their duty.

Yours sanctified wholly. Amen.

G. R. Achor.

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Atlanta, Kan., March 6, 1892.

Dear Trumpet Readers: I will write a brief account of a meeting at Murdock, Butler Co., Kan. I made the acquaintance of the Christ family near Murdock last summer; found the father and mother out of sects, but not seeing the true church. I promised to come and hold some meetings as soon as convenient, which promise I was unable to fulfill until Jan. 9, when Bro. Martin and myself went up there on Saturday, having no previous appointment. The weather had turned very cold, so but few came out till Wednesday night, after which we had fair congregations until Sunday night, when we closed, the weather having become extremely cold. The people began to endorse the truth. There are some real sincere souls there, and should a real fire baptized band go there, we believe a number of souls could be saved. God enabled us so far as we conversed with the people to get the foolish idea out of their minds, that a man could be justified and live in sin; also that a sanctified man could not sin should he want to. And opposition to the doctrine of holiness seemed pretty much removed. Bro. Christ who was clerk of the alliance there, declared his freedom from it, and came out for God, accepting the light on the true church. Sister Christ was gloriously healed by the Lord of a severe cough of long standing. Any of the brethren going up to Northwest Butler Co. should call and see them. On our way home we called to see Sister Louisa Franklin, in Augusta; found her with the whole armor on. She has been trying to hold up the banner of holiness among the Southwestern Holiness Association people, but she is too true for them; they come to their meetings with their feathers and flowers like other sinners, and when she talks to them about these things some of them tell her she is a terror to the holiness work. But she is not a terror to good works, but to the evil. She desires any saints passing through there to stop and see her.

From your saved brother,

V. Roof.

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Mariasville, Pa., March 5, 1892.

Dear Brethren: In the meeting near Melrose, O. three backsliders were sweetly and joyfully reclaimed to God, and were also gloriously sanctified and baptized with the Holy Spirit. We next went to Broughton and held three meetings, which were truly blessed of God. Two dear souls were saved out of, and set free from the Disciple sect, and testified to the real saving grace and power of Jesus. There is a good prospect for a glorious work to be done there. The time having arrived for us to go to Pa., we could not remain longer; but I hope God will send some one there filled with the Spirit. Also Sister Tussinger of Deshler, O. desires some one approved of God to go and hold a meeting at Hamler, O., not far from Deshler. Could not Bro. and Sister Walters go? They are desired. The people desire a meeting there, and the sects are wonderfully divided and torn up. The Lord send some one. Amen! Many fields are now open for gospel work in Paulding, Putnam and Henry Co’s, where we expect to return when through here. We shall stay and labor in Pa. as long as the Lord will. Any of the beloved saints wishing our labors, address us here, at Mariasville, Venango Co., Pa.

Yours in the kingdom of Jesus,

F. N. & S. A. Jacobson.

Edgar Springs, Mo., Feb. 28, 1892.

Dear Saints, Greeting: The third day of this month, husband, myself and Sister Copeland came to this place, but my husband had to return home soon to the family. Sister C. and myself began work in the name of Jesus, and for near two weeks the battle continued without much interruption. Satan was well fortified and was determined not to give up his stronghold; but praise God! the hammer of eternal truth began to take effect. The hail began to sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters to overflow the hiding places. Some are clear in their souls; others wrapped themselves in a cloak of profession, and go on professing to know God, but in works deny him. We came from there to the Springs. The Lord blessed our labors. The people are getting awakened: some are giving up whiskey and tobacco; while others admit the truth, and are giving up their sects, fashions, etc. To God be all the glory. We have begun meeting at the Mount Tabor school-house. The harvest truly is great and the laborers are few. There are so many calls and no workers scarcely in this part Pray for us.

Your sister saved in Jesus,

Julia Myers.

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Six Points, O., March 5, 1892.

Dear Brethren: We are still saved and on the sea of glass. Glory to the name of Jesus! We commenced meeting at this place last Lord’s day; thus far five dear souls have come to the Lord, and we believe that many more will come. Last night after we came home from meeting with Bro. Cupps, we knelt around the family altar, and opened our hearts to our heavenly Father in praise and prayer. The mighty power and love of God touched the heart of Roily, the second son of Sister Cupp, and he was sweetly saved and filled with the love and praises of God. We give all praise and glory to God, to whom it belongs. Pray for us.

Your sister and brother in the love of Jesus. Amen.

Elizabeth & J. R. Walters.

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TESTIMONIES.

Thy Testimonies are Wonderful.
Psa. 119:129.

Allegan. Mich.

Dear Readers: I feel impressed to offer my testimony through the Trumpet, which is as follows: About nine years ago, I came to this country. The Presbyterian society was the first sectarian denomination I tended regularly. First I liked it there, but later, I did not, because the leader acted as one who was entertaining the people in a theater. I left and went to the Episcopal society. There was no laughing going on during service, which seemed better to me. After I had been there about four years, the written prayers, ten commandments and the litany made me tired. Later, till the saints came to Allegan, I attended the English and German denominations, and the German Sabbath school. During this nine years and six months, I paid close attention when the leaders were delivering their essays, and I gave heed to the daily walk of the members. Comparing it with the teachings of the Bible, I found out it did not agree with it. Their motto was, “We are not as we ought to be.” “Weak, weak, O Lord, have mercy upon us miserable sinners,” was another expression.

Three weeks ago, the Lord opened my eyes by sending the saints to Allegan. Having heard the doctrine explained, which was declared by the brothers and sisters to be the only true gospel, I meditated upon it. Nine days after that I found out I was not yet converted. I yielded and gave my heart to God. I felt as if a stone had been taken from my heart. O what a glorious moment that was! Praise the Lord! Pray for me, dear ones, that I may show gratitude towards God for such a great blessing. Pray for me that I may be faithful to the end.

Your brother, saved by the precious blood of Jesus,

A. Heringa.

Reds, Mo.

Dear Saints of God: I praise God for this blessed evening light, and that he inclined my heart to receive it. I had been “hungering and thirsting after righteousness,” but did not know that sanctification was what I needed. I had never attended a holiness meeting until Oct., 1891; there I heard the doctrine of the Bible straight and was convinced of the truth, and at once made my consecration; then was I filled with perfect love, joy and peace. I was quite young when the Lord forgave my sins, and made me a new creature. I was then united with the Baptist denomination, and lived in that sect until the Lord saved me out of it. A great trial of faith came the next day after the Holy Ghost was received but the Lord gave me real victory, as he ever has since. Praise his holy name! I can boldly say the Lord is my helper. O praise the Lord for the GOSPEL TRUMPET. It truly is a feast to my soul to hear the testimony of God’s little ones, the labors and results of his ministers and the teaching of the Bible. I feel that the Lord wants me to write an experience. I hesitated quite a while, then I thought that it would do to write only to the editor, but that is not what the Lord wants. When I read the New Year’s Greeting in the Trumpet of many calls for children to help speed on the truth and the importance of doing now all they could, I was much impressed, and I asked the Lord to reveal to me if there was anything I could do, for he knew my circumstances and all about me; while yet praying the answer came, “Sell your ring,” to which I said Amen; praise the Lord! Perhaps some of God’s dear children have acted as I did, that is, laid away a little treasure, not thinking that it was the Lord’s, and he has need of it to aid in having his gospel preached to every creature. God bless you all and keep you pure.

TRULY

“In God I have found a retreat,
Where I can securely abide,
No refuge nor rest so complete,
And here I intend to reside.”

Your sister in Christ,

Laura Roper.

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OBITUARIES.

Died, Jan. 26, 1892, Hewey David Kiser, son of E. H. and E. L. Kiser, of Gibsonburg, O. Aged 1 year, 7 months and 11 days. He died of Spinal disease and La Grippe.

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Oolagah, I. T.

Sister Lizzie Baker departed this life Feb. 22, 1892; aged 22 years. She died requesting her husband and all her friends to prepare for the coming of the Lord.

Services by

M. A. Fly.

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Died, in Covert, Mich., Mar. 2, 1892, Bro. J. H. Heck; aged 41 years, 4 months and 2 days, He was born in Woodward Co., O. in 1851; moved to Covert in 1867, and married Miss. Ella Fish in 1874. Three children were born unto them, but they all died. His second wife was Miss Cora Cooper. A few years after their marriage she gave her heart to God, and continued in earnest supplication in behalf of her husband. A few months before his death, he became interested in reading the Bible, which led him to repent and call on the Lord for pardon, which he seemed to receive, and died with hope of eternal life, leaving wife and four children to mourn his loss.

S. Michels.

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Died, at Gonzales, Tex., Jan. 20, 1892, Martin A. Marcee, Jr.; aged 19 years, 10 months and 27 days. He had long and severe trials of afflictions, which he bore with Christian fortitude and great patience. He was saved five years ago when at the age of fifteen. His walk was very humble before the Lord for three years, but he then gave way and settled into a backslidden condition through persecutions and the cares of life. But he was very unhappy, hungering and thirsting for that experience of salvation which he once enjoyed; but during his sickness he renewed his covenant with God, and found peace to his soul, and testified that he was now ready to go and dwell with Jesus. He fell asleep in Jesus with a bright smile, as with joy on his countenance, and as beholding the Savior.

Your saved sister,

Julia A. Marcee.

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HEALTH DEPARTMENT.

How to Avoid Diphtheria.

As we notice frequently cases of death resulting from the dreaded disease Diphtheria, I have long desired to impart to the saints, especially, so me information that will doubtless prove of great value, if properly observed, to prevent the ravages of the disease. From observation and experienced we have learned the fact that the disease is produced by a superabundance of starch accumulated in the system, not converted into sugar; which is the case by the acids contained in the juices used in digesting the food; but if the acid is not of sufficient amount to perform this work the starch is retained as a disease-producing agent.

Acid turns starch into sugar. Alkalies counteract and neutralize the acids, incapacitate the transforming qualities of the acid, rendering it, in a measure, powerless to perform its office, hence the starch accumulates until it exudes through the pores. Baking powders contain alkali. Potatoes contain about 18 or 20 per cent or over one-fifth part starch, and are one of the greatest causes of the disease. The indigested starch goes to the liver as glycogen, animal starch, to the lymphatics as impure starchy lymph, then passes into the heart as starchy atoms, through the lungs the same, hence to the skin and clogs the pores. In a work published in London, 1862, Pavy proved that a diet upon starchy vegetables increased the animal starch in the liver from 7 to 17 per cent, and the weight of the liver is greatly increased.

The advice we are always accustomed to give, especially at times when it is raging, is to keep potatoes away from the children and give acid drinks, as lemonade, which turns the excess of starch into sugar, and eliminates the burden which is overtaxing nature, and thereby- prevent the fatal malady. We could give a great volume of authority and common sense, but a word to the wise is sufficient. For every infraction of law there is a specific penalty attached. Mitigating circumstances may modify, but there is no such thing as complete impunity for disobedience of the laws of health, whether through ignorance or not. Magendie fed dogs on bolted wheat flour alone, and they died in forty days, while others thrived on whole wheat. In Indianapolis. Ind., vital statistics by the board of health in 1885, give the number of deaths at 1595. Of these 433 were under 1 year old; 98, from 1 to 2; 140, from 2 to 5; 57, old age; 1108, in the prime of life. What a reflection on the ignorance or non-observance of the divine laws of God pertaining to health! Is it not time we, as Paul, should reason of temperance, as well as of righteousness and judgment to come? for against such there is no law. — Gal. 5:22.

Eat wheat, oats, corn, fruits, beef and mutton plainly cooked, in moderate quantities, and but little supper. Breathe good air day and night. Drink pure water, and bathe often. Live in the sunshine, either in a well lighted room or out of doors. Cultivate cheerful temper. Never take poisons; they only kill and destroy. Man was the last great crowning work of the Almighty. Fashioned after his own image, receiving the impress of the great Creator’s power, endowed with faculties of reason and intellect, and placed upon the earth to fulfill a high and holy mission. But man from beginning has been placed under restrictions, physical as well as moral; and the health and welfare of mankind depends to a great extent upon a knowledge and observance of those laws, both physical and moral, which we cannot violate with impunity.

G. R. Achor.

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Wholesome Food.

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“Then said Daniel, * * * Give us pulse to eat, and water to drink, then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants.” — Dan. 1:11.

Three Points.

(Concluded.)

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THE WOMAN’S COVERING.

WE will now take up this last point of the three. The scripture treating on this matter is 1 Cor. 11:2-16. The real subject here embraced, is the question of wearing long or shorn hair: over which there had been some contention, for which the apostle reproves them, telling them that “nature itself teaches” what is suitable in this respect, and that the church had no rigid custom or law governing in this matter, and that there was therefore no occasion for any contention about it. But in connection with the teaching that the woman’s hair was given her for a covering — ver. 15, there is, we infer, from ver. 5, 6, also an allusion to the head covering that was worn by Jewish females, and by orientals generally. But there is no record of Christ or of any of his apostles laying down any law, or command respecting what cut, color, or form of clothing to wear either upon our heads or body, save that we dress with modest apparel, without adornments of gold, precious stones or costly array. If it be said that the words of the apostle Paul, in 1 Cor. 11. contain a command, we answer that it was simply an allusion to things over which they were contending among themselves, and for which contention there was no necessity at all, since even nature is sufficent to guide us in these matters, and from the dictation of reason and natural good sense, he instructed them that it were a shame for men to wear their hair long, or for women to be without this God-given covering. He says not one word about Christ having given any command, nor does he enact a law. To what then did he appeal as the basis of his advice? Here it is: “Judge in yourselves; is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? Does not even nature itself teach you?” etc. There is, then, no law appealed to, but it is a mere question as to fitness, or what, under existing customs, manners, and educations, as well as the dictates of nature,” is regarded as comely, or appropriate. He did not say. “Thus saith the Lord,” but, “Judge yourselves, is it comely?” To misconstrue these words into a rigid law, and imagine the covering a certain kind of a cap, and then think people will be lost if they do not come to their home-made commandment is extreme superstition, and a trick of the devil who is the author of all such yokes.

“But if a woman should wear long hair, it is a glory to her: because her hair has been given to her instead of a veil.” — 1 Cor. 11:15. — Emphatic Diaglott. Rotherham also renders it the same.

“Judge in yourselves, is it decent that a woman pray to God unveiled? Doth not even nature itself teach you that if a man indeed have long hair it is a disgrace to him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a veil.” — Jas. MacKnight. H. P. Anderson, and Conybeare and Howson, two translations tell us plainly that the woman’s hair was given instead of a veil, and three say her hair was given to her for a veil. The word used in 1 Cor. 11:15 is “PERIBALOION,” which is correctly rendered veil. It is defined in Young’s concordance, as, “something cast around.” Robinson’s lexicon defines the word thus: “To cast around;” “To throw around; to put on; to clothe.” “To put a garment around or upon any one; to clothe with anything.” In Jamison, Fausset, and Brown’s Commentary we find this observation on ver. 5: “In putting away the veil, she puts away the badge of her subjection to man, which is her true “honor;” for through him it connects her with Christ, the head of the man. Moreover, as the head-covering was the emblem of maiden modesty before man, (Gen. 24:65), and conjugal chastity (Gen. 2:16); so to uncover the head indicated withdrawal from the power of the husband, whence a suspected wife had her head

uncovered by the priest (Num. 5:18). Again, “As woman’s hair is given her by nature, as her covering, to cut it off like a man, all admit, would be indecorous. Therefore to put away the lead covering, too, like a man, would be similarly indecorous.” Again, “It was the Greek custom (and so that at Corinth) for men in worship to be uncovered: whereas the Jews wore the ‘Talith,’ or veil, to show reverence before God, and their unworthiness to look on him (Isa. 6:2).”

This circumstance is what doubtless gave rise to the contention at Corinth. The converted Greeks felt no need to conform to the customs of the Jews in veiling the head and face, whereas Jews, owing to their customs, thought it irreverant to approach God without being veiled. To settle the matter the apostle directs that the woman should not dispense with her then chief distinguishing costume from that of man, but wear the veil; but that men should not have their heads covered.

Dunkard bonnets have no place in this whole subject; it is all about the hair and veils. Something cast around a person as we have seen, in the definitions above given. It is a question of veiling, and it is all a question of proper decorum, and the latter wholly depends upon existing customs and habits. These create men’s and women’s ideality and tastes. What is very proper in one part of the earth, would be very indecorous in another. The fact of the matter is, the whole object of Paul’s directions were to the end that women should not abandon that which chiefly distinguished them from men in appearance and thus dishonor their sex, and dishonor man their head, by an apparent assumption of equality with him in rank and authority. Look at any picture, or read any archeology of the times of Christ, and you will see that men did not wear pants and coats as now, but their apparel was of a loose gown-like appearance, much the same as women, and loose robes.

“For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head, because of the angels.” The word angel in its literal meaning simply denotes a messenger of some kind. In Gal. 2:4 we read of certain “false brethren,” — feigned Christians — who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus.” Probably they were sent by some subtile foe to spy out something by which they could bring reproach on the cause of Christ. And it may have been because of such angels of deception, God’s saints, though free from the hard yokes imposed by time-honored customs, should nevertheless not use their liberty in a way that might be turned into a scandal. Hence they should have power on their heads. Anciently men had horns on their caps, which denoted rank, office and authority, whether high or low. “Power on her head” means something on her head to indicate the modesty and subordination of her sex. Otherwise these spies would find occasion for an evil report.

“Because of the messengers.” — Rotherham and other versions. “Therefore the woman ought to wear a sign of subjection upon her head because of the angels.” — Conybeare & Howson.

“For this reason ought the woman to have a veil on her head, on account of the angels.” — MacKnight.

“For this reason ought the woman to have a token of subjection on her head.” — H. T. Anderson.

“A veil on the head.” — A. Layman. “For this cause woman ought to have a veil on her head, because of the messengers.” — Wakefield.

But with us the clothing of men is in such marked contrast with that of women that no veil need be worn as a token of her sex, and of her consequent subjection to man. Moreover no time-honored rule or custom exists in this country requiring females to cover their heads and faces with a veil; hence there is no breach of decorum, nor cause of scandal in being without such a thing. Should, however, the female part of God’s church to day abandon their dresses, and assemble in men’s clothing, the secular papers would soon have their angels — reporters — there to witness the scene, and fill their columns with the most exaggerated description of the disgraceful affair. That would be indeed a shame, because a departure from essential female attire, and an apparent attempt to invade the peculiar rank of man. Kitto in his “Cyclopedia of Bible Literature,” on the subject of the veil, says, “There were different kinds of this essential article of an Eastern female’s attire.” So it was then regarded an essential to womanly decency, as her present established attire is here. “The veils mentioned in scripture were, no doubt, mostly analogous to the wrappers of different kinds in which the Eastern women enveloped themselves when they quit their houses.” — Kitto. This agrees with the definition of PERIBALOION in 1 Cor. 11, something thrown around a person like a shawl, covering largely from head to foot.

We will now quote from Jahn’s Bible Archeology, page 141, sec. 127, on

THE VEIL.

“The difference between the dress of the man and the woman was small. * * * The dress of the hair in the two sexes was different, as already observed; and another mark of distinction was that the women wore a veil.”

This remark has reference to the habit of the Jews, which, of course, was largely carried into the church of the first-born; for salvation does not divest men and women of their national dress, only of the superfluous addition of pride and vanity. As we have remarked, the use of the veil was chiefly owing to the otherwise sameness in the male and female costume, we have now proved the same. Hence the veil was needed as a means of distinction, and a token of her subordination to the male.

We have said the angels in verse 10 of our lesson, 1 Cor. 11, very probably refers to spies sent to the churches by their enemies, and now, opening the Bible Encyclopedia, by Edward Robinson, we find the same position taken in the article on veils. “Who are these [the angels]? Some say the angels of the churches, i.e., the bishops. Others, better, the messengers, i.e., spies of the heathen, evil- minded persons, who frequent the assemblies to spy out irregularities.”

Having consulted these few authorities let us now return to our text in 1 Cor. 11. Is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? But what covering should she have? Next verses answer: “Doth not even nature itself teach you that if a man have long hair it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair it is a glory to her; for her hair is given her for a covering.” Here the apostle ends the subject, and leaves us all with the final decision that the only covering for the head she needs to pray unto God is that of her hair. And yet we candidly admit that in verses 5, 6 there is an allusion to another head covering besides the hair, which of course was the Eastern veil generally worn by all females when going in company or in any public place. This would be regarded necessary also, because an established custom, distinguishing between male and female, and used to denote the inferiority of the latter. Hence under such existing custom and sentiment it would be regarded as a scandal to depart from it, just as it would bring reproach on the cause of Christ for professed holy women in this country to change their proper clothing for that of the male, or just as it would to day for Eastern women to lay off their veil and appear in public; for in many places there, as nineteen hundred years ago, the veil is still the chief mark of distinction from the male as the dress is in this country. The hair is given to the woman from God for a veil, and should be worn long, as nature itself teaches. But veils, and all other customs of women are proper or improper, are an honor or a shame, just as the established apparel in the country in which they live cause them to be so regarded. There is not one word in the Bible commanding God’s people of one nation to adopt the habits of some ancient or foreign nation, and thus make themselves ridiculous to surrounding society. By this we do not mean that we should follow the shifting fashions of the world anywhere, but dress according to our nation’s established usage, without any vain superfluities. By so doing we show our holy separation from the world, and at the same time do not unnecessarily make ourselves ridiculous to society, nor awake contempt in the minds of the people, destroying our ability to do men good. So far as the apostle Paul could within the bounds of the law of Christ, he “became all things to all men, that he might win the more.” And surely we could not draw men to God, if we made ourselves a barbarian unto them by departing from their well established ideas of propriety.

In conclusion we repeat that before any one wishes to bring people under the Eastern custom of female head covering they should conform to it themselves. For it was a loose large veil thrown over their heads, and largely covering the body. With this fact before us the German Baptist people no more follow the custom than other women. But should they insist that our common Bible does not say veil, but only a covering, then they open the door wide enough for any kind of a covering, hats, bonnets, etc., whatever the woman deems most comfortable and suited to her age, etc. If they make the command specific they are bound to confine it to the veil. If they extend it to covering in general, so as to include their caps and bonnets, it equally includes all other womens’ caps, hats and bonnets. For other ladies of all classes wear something on their heads, as well as Dunkers, Omish and Mennonites. Then before they continue their clamor any further for the covering, let them put on the peribaloion themselves, and then they will find themselves in fashion with Romish nuns and sisters of charity. Before you think hard of me for saying this, open, any Bible dictionary or large Bible with illustrations, and see that we tell you the truth before God. But we do not advise you to bother yourselves about ancient Eastern habits. Nay, but look well that your souls are clothed with the “garment of salvation,” and the robe of righteousness, lest with all your clamor for head covering you be found naked and lost in the day of judgment. No ancient veil, Romish trapping or sectarian bonnet will cover the spots of sin in the heart. Many who strenuously cover their heads yet live in sin, to such thus saith the Lord:

“Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my Spirit, that they may add sin to sin.” — Isa 30:1.

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TESTIMONIES.

Thy Testimonies are Wonderful.
Psa. 119:129.

Columbus. Kan.

Dear Saints: This morning finds us saved to do the whole will of God, kept by his mighty power. We know that he doeth all things well. There is so much opposition in this place. Two years ago the Lord sanctified us and made us white in the blood of the Lamb, and he has wonderfully kept us ever since.

Your humble brother and sister in the Lord,

John A. & Alice A. Wilson.

_____

Fern, Pa.

Dear Saints of God, Greeting: feel that it would be to the glory of God to add my testimony to the many in the Trumpet. I was a subjects for prayer some time ago and I can say to the glory of God that I am saves and sanctified by a see … we … grace. I was saved on the 26th of Feb. Praise the Lord for this goodness and mercy to one so unworthy as I have been! Praise his holy name forever! Pray for me that I may b.. found low at the Master’s feet, ready to do his whole will at all times.

Your sister in the love of Jesus,

Myra E. Lineman.

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