24 December 1896, Volume 16, Number 51.
FREEDOM IN CHRIST.
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What glorious comfort there is found
Around the throne of grace.
When we are doing our Master’s will,
And see his smiling face!
What peace we find for the weary soul,
In the blest Book that’s given,
That we may live holy here below,
And gain a home in heaven.
It makes us happy and content,
To keep our conscience pure;
And know our Savior dwells with us,
As with the saints of yore.
How humble and prayerful we should be,
And do our Savior’s will;
For he gave his life, that we might live,
And rescued us from hell.
By his precious blood he cleansed our hearts,
And keeps us white as snow;
And he’ll do the same for others, too,
If they will come, I know.
Come to the Savior now, dear friends,
And all his goodness prove;
He is willing to pardon all your sins;
To-day for Jesus move.
He knocks at the door of your heart to-day,
Oh come and let him in,
And begin a life for Christ to-day,
And leave the paths of sin.
Maggie Woody.
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A Ramble on Lookout Mountain.
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IN a previous report we mentioned our visit to Lookout Mountain, intending to more fully describe it in this article.
Lookout Mountain lies south of the city of Chattanooga, Tenn. It is about ninety-five miles long, all of which but about two miles of the northern end, on which the famous battle of the Civil War was fought, lies in the state of Georgia. The base of the northern extremity lies about three and one-half miles from Chattanooga.
We left the city for the mountain at 5 a. m., on foot, and in about an hour we reached the foot of the mountain, and were soon ascending its rugged steeps. We took what the natives call the old road, said to be the shortest wagon road leading to the summit. But we had not gone far before we lost our way. We then climbed upon the incline car track, and for a long way ascended with difficult step from tie to tie, until we came to a finger-board pointing to the right, with the words, “BATTLE-FIELD 300 YARDS.”
We turned aside to view the grounds where the weary men fought so bravely for their country in 1863. Some ruins of the old Confederate breastworks still remain to mar the scene. We were then nearing the great cliffs which surround the summit of Lookout Mountain, ranging, we should judge, from about 200 to 400 feet in height.
The reader may judge from this how secure General Bragg (Confederate) must have felt on the summit of the mountain with batteries planted on the slopes of the mountain; brave and well-disciplined soldiers fortified behind strong bulwarks cl rock and earth; a strong fort on the summit, on the side next to the city of Chattanooga, from which he could shoot cannon balls into the city; and a rifle-pit across the top of the mountain, which would enable him to make a strong resistance, if the Federal troops should succeed in climbing the rugged cliffs.
That the Confederates, considering the advantages of their position, were completely routed in a day by the Union army, seems more like a miracle than the result of human skill. It reminds us of some of the great victories the Jews won in the Old Testament times, by divine assistance.
After crossing a portion of the battle-fields we wended our way through the briers, and over the rocks to another incline railroad and ascended it to its terminus at the top of the mountain.
The railroad company has erected a building at this point, for the accommodation of visitors, from the porches of which the eye is met with one of the most picturesque scenes of which the human mind can form a conception. Just before you in the great valley, near the city of Chattanooga lies The Great Foot, which is a neck of land formed by a great sent in the Tennessee River, resembling in shape the human foot. It measures one and one-half miles across the ankle. Beautiful mountains are to be seen in all directions, towering up towards the sky, like monuments intended for the display of the handiwork of the Creator, with love and adoration to whom the bosom of the Christian is made to swell as he beholds them.
The mountain is well named Lookout, for on a clear day the mountains of Virginia, Kentucky, and North Carolina, some of which are hundreds of miles away, may be seen from its summit.
The scene is historic as well as picturesque and beautiful. Before you lies the city of Chattanooga, where the Union army under General Rosecrans was besieged by the Confederate army under General Bragg, almost to starvation; after they had been whipped and driven from the bloody battle-field of Chickamauga, on the banks of Chicamauga Creek, a few miles to the southeast, which battle-field may be seen from other points on the summit of Lookout Mountain.
The Lookout Mountain battlefield lay directly in front of us on the end of the mountain which slopes toward the city of Chattanooga. It was up this rugged steep that Hooker’s brave men fought their way on a foggy morning of the autumn of 1863, mid showers of shot shells, and rocks poured down upon them from the Confederate fortifications above. We were amazed that men would undertake so difficult a task.
A little pamphlet by Gilbert C. Kniffen, for sale on Lookout Mountain, thus describes the ascent of the Union armies: “Every rock and tree concealed a sharpshooter. At one time in the ascent the fire from these concealed riflemen grew so continuous as to cause a halt in Geary’s front line. There was a piece of ground in their front that became a dead-line. Referring to this point, Walthall (Confederate General) says: ‘The front of the enemy wavered and was broken at one point, but after falling back a short distance it soon reformed, and, despite my rapid and well-directed fire, moved steadily and irresistibly forward.’ Toiling up the way, with a leaden storm beating against it, the narrow paths at times choked with the forms of their fallen comrades, the men pressed forward. Huge boulders, loosened from their resting-places of centuries, dashed down upon them, but, as if insensible to danger, the gallant representatives of three armies pushed on with the light of battle on their faces.”
Oh what a lesson to the Christian soldier! If men will stem such a tide for their country, what hardness ought we not as servants of the Most High God patiently to endure for Christ and souls he died to save?
The conflict was pushed so far up the mountain’s side that the battle was carried above the dense fogs that lay in the valley, hence, has been denominated by historians, “The Battle Above the Clouds.”
After fighting hard all day, the Union forces reached the base of the rock wall which the hand of God has placed around the summit of the mountain, and early the next morning, Nov. 24, 1863, by means of ladders they climbed from projection to projection and from crevice to crevice until they at last gained the summit of the mountain and sent wild cheers of victory to their comrades in the valley, many of whom lay wounded and dying, while the Confederate army was descending the eastern slopes.
As we stood at the very point where the soldiers scrambled up the awful cliffs, we marvelled that men would attempt to climb them. Many of them are perpendicular to a great height, and some are far overhanging.
At the place where the soldiers ascended the cliffs there is a level place about fifty feet wide, about one hundred feet below the top of the mountain. It is on this that the building stands from which we viewed the valleys.
The friendly guide of the mountain directed us to a winding passage where ascension was possible. We began to climb the last course of nature’s great stone wall around the mountain’s crest. It was not without great difficulty that we gained the summit. Rocks and bushes were our defense.
After viewing the Confederate rifle-pits across the end of the mountain, we walked about two miles southward beholding natural sceneries, such as the natural bridge and springs, Fat Man’s Squeeze, etc. By this time we found our time was growing short, and we must turn our steps toward Chattanooga. Upon inquiring we were directed to a short cut down the mountain, and soon we were descending its rugged steeps. It was truly a short cut; for it was a bee-line down the eastern slopes nearly opposite of Point Lookout, about one and one-half miles from top to bottom of the mountain. About the first 400 feet we had to climb nearly vertically down a ladder.
Fatigued (for we had walked about thirteen miles), we at length reached the foot of the mountain, where we took the street-car for the city, with hearts filled with thankfulness to God for the peace and quietness which now reigns in the vicinity of Chattanooga.
God grant that the bloody scenes of 1863 may never return.
WM. G. SCHELL AND E. E. BYRUM.
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Follow Christ.
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To be representatives of Christ in the comprehensive view of the gospel, and to be worthy of a place in the ranks of true honor, able to disseminate evangelical truth that produced such marvelous achievements among the successors of apostolic power, we must be conversant with his laws and doctrines More yet, we must be possessed of the principle or self-sacrificing spirit that actuated the Son of God. As the light of the world, a star of incomprehensible beauty, he came from glory, where he was surrounded by a world of beauty and truth, the only elements that can fully realize his worth. Cast into a world of darkness, the fumes of hell appeared to extinguish the light intended for the famished soul.
The deadly nightshade that grows rank in the field, “infidel,” cast its evil power to poison his character. The flocks of obscene and evil-eyed birds sought to make him a prey. That nest of envenomed serpents in all subtlety, during that period of dreariness and gloom, aimed to cast into the salvation of man the chill and stupor of death-diffusing exhalations that have ever operated those opposed to purity-yet he stood.
The sorrows of all the world were placed upon him. Cannot we bear a few without complaint? Remember Jesus in the garden. What agony! Wounded for our transgressions, he bled for our guilt. The sins of nations concentrated upon his loving soul. He is the only one for whom we can suffer in this life of love. He suffered for all. Can we not suffer for one? He suffered for his enemies. Will we suffer for our friend? How unselfish and self-denying! How loving toward his subjects! How magnanimous toward his enemies! He is our example.
To the weak he is compassion and kindness. To the helpless and suffering he is physician. In fact, he is to every willing soul, just what its needs call for.
It has been said that in times of war, the leader who said, “Go, men,” sometimes failed to inspire his men to face the enemy; but the one who said, “Come,” always had an army of determined men by his side. Our Great Leader in this battle for truth says, “Come, follow me,” We are inspired by his fearless spirit, keeping step with the one who knows no defeat, and striking wherever he gives command. Hence, a blow is not spent in vain. Who will be the next to join the holy ranks in defense of the standard of truth and gospel rights?
W. A. HAYNES,
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Why I Have Withdrawn From the Society Galled “Friends.”
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In the first place they neglect to instruct their children in religion, that is in the Christian religion set forth in the holy scriptures, have no Sabbath-schools or Bible classes, and even no explanation or instruction in its sacred truths, or scarcely any.
In the second place, they seem not to take into account that we are surrounded by those that are not saved, those that are living in sin or in a sinful condition, “without hope and without God in the world,” who are living without faith in our Lord Jesus Christ — that is, saving faith that saves the soul. They seem not to enter into the vineyard and labor for the salvation of mankind; for the Lord is continually saying, “Go into my vineyard and labor,” but they go not, and try to hinder all who try to obey that command.
They seem to make no account of conversion or the new birth that Christ spoke of to Nicodemus, and I fully believe that those that are ruling in the society at this time are for the most part as much strangers to this experience as Nicodemus
was.How can a church prosper with unconverted worldly men and women controlling it and even ruling it, as it were, with a rod of iron? “By their fruits ye shall know them.” “Men do not gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles.” I have had some experience in this line. I have had to taste of their fruits and I found them bitter. “Their grapes are grapes of gall, their dusters are bitter.”
And I may say of later years, after prayerfully and carefully examining those places in the holy scriptures which give the commands of our Lord and his apostles in regard to baptism and the Lord’s supper, I did not feel clear myself without endeavoring to obey their express commands which are recorded in those sacred writings that were sent down to us to make us wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus our Lord. I tried to divest myself of all prejudice of education, and not be biased by preconceived opinions, and to do whatever was right in this matter as well as others, and I feel it is right for me to obey in this as well as in other things. We must all acknowledge that early Christians practiced these commands and thought them obligatory on them, and I believe all denominations of Christians believe so yet, except the “Friends.”
There are several other things in the Society I have not been satisfied with for years. I think they make more account, as a general thing, of their peculiar views that are not essential to salvation. Such as dress and plain language, and taking off the hat. They seem to lay greater stress on these things than on the great cardinal doctrines of the gospel of Christ, such as his divinity and his atoning sacrifice on the cross for the sins of mankind. And the course the Society is taking on these and other things I might mention, instead of going forward in the work of the gospel is bringing forth no fruit to his praise. But it will be said of them as it was to a church formerly, “Repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place” For the Lord of the vineyard has been seeking fruit on this fig tree, not only three years, but for many years, and he finds none. He has dogged about it and pruned it, and he has waited long upon it, and now I believe the word has gone forth, “Cut it down, why cumbereth it the ground?” I believe it will be said to them as it was to the inhabitants of Jerusalem formerly, “Behold your house is left unto you desolate.”
I believe under these considerations it is or was my place to withdraw from them quietly and peaceably. There are still many in that Society I love, and if we must part, let us part in peace and in good will one toward the other.
In the foregoing I have reference to that part of the Society more particularly, called the “Wilberite” section, of which I have been a member.
JAMES HEALD.
Springville, Iowa.
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Not Always our Way.
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GOD does not always answer our prayer as we ask and as we desire. but he never fails to do the best thing for us under the circumstances. He does not always remove the evils, but he always gives us grace to overcome them. He did not take the three Hebrews out of the furnace of fire, but he came down and walked with them so that the fire should not hurt them, even to its smell upon their garments. He did not prevent Daniel’s going into the den of lions but he sent his angels to close their mouths so that they could not hurt him. He did not even in answer to prayer remove Paul’s thorn in the flesh, but he did what was far better, gave him grace sufficient to sustain him. So, let us remember that our most severe conflicts and trials may be God’s emery wheel, on which he proposes to make us polished stones to shine forever in the kingdom of his dear Son.
Selected.
Page 2
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THURSDAY, Dec. 24, 1896.
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LIST OF MONEY LETTERS NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED
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D. E. Weidner, Jno E. Roberts, T. T. Rutherford, Sophrona Day, A H. Baller, Jas. A. Montgomery, Anna Shepard, Eliza J. Eley, M. E. Speece, Kate Cheek, Herbert Dovies, Mary Geiger, Jno. J. Weigel, Mrs. M. G. Muir. C. O. Berg, Lydia R. Kirchner, D. H. Stauffer
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HOLINESS LITERATURE WANTED IN INDIA.
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We have been sending books, tracts, and papers to India, which have been read with much interest, and the Lord is raising up faithful workers there who are contending earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints; and as the Lord is leading them out of sectism. Mohammedanism, etc., they desire to help spread the pure gospel among the people of that country, and desire an abundance of books, tracts, and papers to distribute.
Now you who cannot go as foreign missionaries, who cannot preach, will now have a chance to help send the gospel in its purity to this heathen country. If a thousand dollars’ worth are sent, it will be speedily distributed. Send the money to us and state how many books, and kinds desired sent, and also the amount of tracts, or send to us and we will make the selection and send. There should be a large box shipped at once, and more later.
“Many souls are now rejoicing in the blessed evening light,
Many more would give their hearts to God if they were taught aright;
Hear the call from every nation, brother, does not this denote,
That this work is to be hastened, for the time is very short.
CHORUS.
[Hear them calling for the gospel, Come and help us to be saved!]”
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Requests for Prayer.
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Please pray for me that I may be healed of catarrh and asthma. Your sister in Christ. Mrs. S. M. Conley, Seguin.
I earnestly ask for the prayers of God’s true children for the healing of my neighbor’s little girl, four years old. She has been sick three months with typhoid fever. Doctors have given her up. Her mother has fully placed her child in the hands of the Lord. Your saved sister in Christ, Mrs. James E. Young.
Pray Jan. 1st for the healing of G. W. Ham, of fits of long standing.
My request is that all the saints pray for me that I may be healed of the catarrh and lung trouble. Your sister in Christ, Mrs. M. Genz, Louisiana, Mo.
I earnestly ask for the prayers of the children of God for the healing of my afflictions. I am suffering with a severe sore throat. I have also been afflicted four years with rheumatism. Your sister in Christ, Janie Broughton.
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Calls for Meetings.
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Some of God’s ministers are wanted at Alexander, Morgan Co., Ill. Address Sarah C. Ewen.
We wish to make a call through the TRUMPET for a meeting at this place, as soon as the Lord directs some blood- washed soul this way, and we pray that it may be in the near future. We are few in number, but are willing to do whatever the Lord directs. Amen. Yours in Christ, R. H. Stewart, Aurora Springs, Mo.
There are three of us here that are walking in this evening light, and are earnestly praying for a Holy Ghost preacher to come at once. Truly this place reminds me of wheat fields where the grain is falling without being harvested. There are church-buildings, schoolhouses, and roomy dwellings, we can have to hold meetings in. We need help that sectarian preachers cannot gainsay, for all of them here believe by joining a man-made organization (called church), they can sin on until death, then they will be saved. If the Lord leads you. come without delay, doubting nothing. I truly believe the harvest will be great, if the right ones come. We would be so glad if Bros. Wm. G. Schell and E. E. Byrum could make it convenient to come this way and stop with us a while, as they are travelling in the South. We live four miles south of Hope, on the Hope and Falcon road. Your sister, S. E. Hunt, Hope, Hempstead Co., Okla.
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Meetings.
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An assembly meeting will be held at Crowland, Ont., commencing Jan. 2, 1897. J. A. Dillon and Co.
There will be a general assembly at Augusta, Ga., to commence Jan. 1, and continue till the 10th. All the saints in Georgia and South Carolina, who can, are earnestly requested to attend, but especially the ministers. We believe it will be for the glory of God, that all the ministers and workers be present during this meeting. Come prepared to take care of yourselves, as far as possible, and help those who are in need. Bring bedding if possible. If you are poor and cannot care for yourself, come trusting God. Bros. Byrum and Schell will be present, the Lord willing. God will be present to advance the saints, save sinners, and heal the sick. Let all who expect to come, and are not otherwise provided for, notify Bro. J. F. Macbeth or Henry Summers, 1446 Marbury St., at once, so arrangements can be made for them. Eatables also can be brought as baggage on the train. Yours saved in Jesus, J. F. and Kittie Lundy.
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FROM INDIA.
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FIFTH LETTER.
CALCUTTA, INDIA.
MY DEARLY BELOVED BROTHER: Thank you very much for your kind letter and the two parcels of tracts and two rolls of papers. I am spreading them over the country with prayer, so that they may bear much fruit. Some of my friends read them very attentively. I am sure they will do their work. I must tell you that I get the GOSPEL TRUMPET and THE SHINING LIGHT regularly. I do delight to read them. Last night I went to see a sick friend who had fever, and after a short talk I asked him whether he believed in divine healing, to which he replied in the affirmative. Then I felt like praying for him, and this morning he is quite well; and when I went to see him again we had a nice time together and thanked the Lord for his goodness. Here are some friends who see the wrong of sectism and do not like to be identified with any one of the sects. Praise the Lord for the wisdom he hath given them!
That there are some workers here in India who meet with cases which prove to them that sectism should not be upheld and defended, and it is not according to the mind of Christ our head, you will be able to see from the following extract from a Baptist paper called “The Southern Baptist,” published from Adelaide, Australia. Mr. Luther Moores of the Poona Faith Mission (this brother is from Australia) writes, “I have been at work among Brahmin students and in the villages, and one rich Parsee (a fire worshiper caste) who has been well educated in England, and is a man of no mean order, said to me, ‘Why is Christianity among Protestants divided up into so many denominations? I have been to England and I know that the contention between them is sharp and very bitter. Is this Christianity?’ [The same objection has often been put to me by Brahmin students.] I admitted that it is not; because Christians instead of giving the word of God its place, neglect it and so they are becoming more ignorant of God’s truth, unable properly to defend themselves against any of the errors which are now so numerous; thus they become indifferent, and at last sink down into worldliness. When will the church be ready to receive from God the Father the answer to the Lord’s prayer (Jno. 17:21), ‘That they may be one as thou, Father, art in me and I in thee, that they may also be one in us, THAT THE WORLD MAY BELIEVE that thou hast sent me?” How we are seeking to uphold denominationalism instead of Christ! Rather, brethren, let us uphold Christ, and we shall care little for denominationalism, which in India is viewed as ‘caste’ and should not be known ; in fact, we ought to eat the meat of heaven, and leave quarreling over dry bones, keeping with all saints the unity of the Spirit, ‘until we all come to the unity of the faith.’”
This letter shows much to prove the evil of sects and sectism; and I am glad to hear him speak like that. I mean to write to him and to send booklets to him that you sent.
I must close now for to-day with much holy love for you all. Keep praying for me, that I may be used of the Lord. Yours in his service in the one body,
A. D. KHAN.
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LETTER FROM PEORIA.
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PEORIA, ILL.
DEAR ONES: The saints of this place have a very pleasant l hall and do request any of the brethren in passing this place, if the Lord leads them, to stop over with us, for we know that there are hungering souls here for the truth. Last Sunday was the first meeting in our new hall, and the Lord convicted two dear souls, and they came forward and gave their hearts to God; and last evening one dear little child with fits was brought to the hall, the mother accepted and was willing to obey God’s word, and the saints took the case to the Lord and all agreed that the child would be healed, and up to the present writing (Friday evening) the Lord has victory. As we all know, it was the works of the devil that bothered the child. Pray for the saints in this sinful place, that they may ever have victory over Satan and that sinners will flock in and hear the word and the truth of the blessed evening light and the church of God. Yours in Christ, fully sanctified,
R. E. SLANE.
103 Floral St.
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Study Your Bible.
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“SEEK ye out of the book of the Lord, and read.” — Isa. 34:16.
How many of our readers have disobeyed this divine injunction in the week that is passed and gone? How many have passed the Bible by unnoticed and undisturbed — too busy to peruse its sacred pages, too tired, too sleepy? and many other similar excuses which man is apt to frame.
Alas! too many have become careless along this line. The Bible should be a study, a subject of attention; it should be the great center of all studies. Your work on the farm should be in view of a closer walk with God; your work in the shop, in the mine, or whatever you may chance to do, should go towards forwarding you on in your divine study.
You may wonder how this may be. A part of the Bible must, by each individual, be worked out, to prove its integrity. In order to perfectly understand that part which says, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20 35) it is necessary to give something. Again, “He that giveth to the poor, shall not lack.” Here again it is necessary to give, to receive the promise. “Thou shalt not lack”
Here you see your earnings on the farm, in the shop, or mine, could be placed in the Lord’s hands and prove that part of your study, by a practical knowledge which otherwise you would not have gained, thereby enabling you to launch out further in the ocean of God’s love, and reap a greater harvest from his precious Word. In so doing you are convinced of the wholeness of the word of God, and at the same time employ your means in the propagation of your study.
It is not enough just to read a little now and then, but we are commanded to “search the scriptures” (Jno. 5:39); because they testify of the Lord Jesus, and in them we think we have eternal life. If we were to command our child to search for a thing, we would understand by that he is to turn over, and move about, every thing that would serve as a place of concealment. Do you think God means anything less when he says, “Search?” No. Search means to study, and to study means to apply the mind to a subject of attention.
“Study to shew thyself approver unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” — 2 Tim. 2:15.
“Zion shall be redeemed with judgment.” — Isa. 1:27. Zion is the church, and the church includes every saved man and woman, and if you desire to be among that number, you must be redeemed with judgment. “The Lord is known by the judgments he executeth.” — Psa. 9:16. Then, the better we acquaint ourselves with his written judgments the better we know the Lord; the more we study the Bible the better we become acquainted with his judgment.
If the Bible is studied less than anything else, can you expect any great results from it? Now, brethren, when you begin to feel lean you are beginning to starve, and the antidote is, “Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read.” Then do it.
CHARLES FORD.
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Sin.
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“WHOSOEVER committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law.” — 1 Jno. 3:4.
Here we have sin defined. Jesus Christ has given us a law, or the new testament. For us to do something that he tells us not to do is to commit sin, or if we do not do what he tells us to do we commit sin. “To him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” Therefore we can sin by commission or by omission.
We can transgress the law of Christ and yet not be a transgressor of the law of Moses. We could hate our brother, just so we did not kill him; we could lust after women in our hearts and get a divorce from our wife and marry another, and yet not violate the law of Moses. But all of these and many more that are not forbidden in the law of Moses are violations of Christ’s law.
The law of Moses was against outward sins, or sins that were manifested in our actions; but the law of Christ is against both outward and inward sins. The law of Moses demanded outward holiness, but the law of Christ demands both outward and inward holiness. The law of Moses demanded cleanliness on the outside, but the law of Christ demands that we be clean inside and out. Therefore uncleanness in the spirit or body is a sin in the sight of God.
Some people think if they do not do some outbreaking sin they are living free from sin. But we will notice that there are divers ways of committing sins. Read Gal. 5:19-21. 1 Cor. 6:9-10. Mark 7:21-23. Rev.21:8.
We can sin with our tongue. Psa. 39:1. Jas. 3. James also tells us in Jas. 1:26, If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. All unholy conversation is sin.
The thought of foolishness is sin.” — Prov. 24:9.
“Whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” — Rom. 14:23.
“If we have respect to persons, we commit sin.” — Jas. 2:9.
This word SIN, though small, includes a great deal. Its effects are many. All trouble is caused by it. Sickness is caused by it. Death of both soul and body are caused by it. In short, sin is what is the matter with the world. All manner of sins and unrighteousness is summed up in this one little word SIN. There are not many words in the English language that include more than this word sin.
The word GRACE is more powerful and includes more, and does more for the saving of our souls than sin has done or can do in destroying them. Fire cannot stop water, but water can stop fire. As water has power over fire, so grace (only more so) has power over sin. Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound. He will give us abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness, that we may reign in this life.
Sin shall not have dominion over us; for we are not under the law but under grace. Sin may be our master and lord but it is not necessary. We may be a servant to sin and bound by it, but we need not have to be.
All who commit sin are servants to sin. Jno. 8:34. AH who yield to its power are separated from God. Isa. 59:1, 2. It causes our names to be blotted out of God’s book. Ex. 32:33. It withholds good things from us. Jer. 5:25. “Sin is a reproach to any people.” — Prov. 14:34. “The wages of sin is death.” — Rom. 6:23.
Sin makes us slaves, keeps good things from us, separates us from God, and cheats us out of eternal life and happiness, and gives us eternal death and misery and woe with all the lost, in a hell prepared for the devil and his angels. Therefore, my friend and sinner, why do you serve sin? Your brother in Christ, saved from sin,
OSTIS B. WILSON.
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Giving to the Lord.
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DEAR brethren, my soul is stirred this morning, since I have been at the Trumpet Office and see how they stand in need of your means, also, the schools and missions (especially Open Door in Chicago). How can you keep back that which is the Lord’s? I saw in a paper the other day how a M. E. sect in Detroit, Mich. has made up $8,650.00 to send their corrupt doctrine here into North Dakota by missionaries. Is not this enough to stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance?
It is true God has delivered us from the sect yoke and straps and bands. Jno. 8:36. Yet, are we free from doing our duty to God and our brethren? So often we can hear the praises going up to God because he has delivered them from tobacco, coffee, tea, drugs, and doctor bills (and some say they don’t have to pay the preacher); yet we read in Rom. 6:19, “As ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness * * * so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.” Now brethren, while the devil was using our members, how often he had us to go down into our pockets to pay for a plug of tobacco, and if the money was not there he had us go in debt for it. Is not this true? Dear ones, who do you love the most? “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” — Jno. 14: 15.
Please read and consider well Jas. 2:15, 16 and Deut. 15:7-11. We read in verse 9 of the poor brother crying unto the Lord against thee because means are held back, “and it be sin unto thee.” Indeed, this is back in the Old Testament, “but whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let 11.8 not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” — 1 Jno. 3:17, 18.
Christ indeed preached a free gospel. Isa. 55:1, 2. Matt. 11:5. So it is to-day. But as God leads and prospers us, so give.
Paul labored, and supported himself and co-laborers (Acts 20:33-35), and tells the brethren by so laboring they “ought to support the weak, to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Verse ar In
Page 3
1 Thess. 2:9 he tells the brethren how he worked, so as to be an ensample for them to follow. And again, he said, “If any would not work, neither should he eat;” for he had heard that there were such there, and busybodies, and he commanded them by our Lord Jesus Christ that with quietness they work and eat their own bread. See 2 Thess. 3:7-12. Just so God has no use for a lazy person.
In writing his second letter to the Corinthian brethren, Paul said when he was with them and wanted, the brethren from Macedonia supplied (2 Cor. 11: 8, 9), and in his first letter he asked, ‘Have I and Barnabas not power to abstain from working? Who feedeth a flock and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Thou shall not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. This was written for our sakes no doubt. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? Even so hath God ordained that they which preach the gospel shall live of the gospel. Yet for the sake of not hindering or abusing his power in the gospel he was not chargeable’ — 1 Cor. 9:3-18.
So he says, “My God shall supply all your needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” — Phil. 4:19. We say amen, and claim God’s promises. See Matt. 18:19. Jno. 15:7. 1 Jno. 5:14, 15.
Now brethren, if you have the anointing spoken of in 1 Jno. 2:27 and Jno. 14:26, we know you need not that any man tell you of the needs; for Jesus does tell you by his Spirit, and when he sees he cannot use you he will use some other brother or a sinner.
Please allow me to give a little experience. I once needed an article, and by faith God gave it to me, God told a brother, and he went to get it. Then something told him, “He may have it.” So he went home, but God spoke again. He went to town again, but just the time he was going to get it, something said, “He may have it now.” (Read 2 Cor. 9:7). Yet I did not (only by faith), so God used another brother.
Sometimes when among the saints, I say something on the line of consecration, and it seems to hurt. Then I hear the remark, Well, I give as much as this or that brother or as much as any one here. Dear brethren, God says we are not wise for saying this. 2 Cor. 10:2.
“Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him,” etc. — 1 Cor. 16:1-3.
Paul tells the Roman brethren that if the Gentiles are made partakers of their spiritual things, it is their duty to give unto them carnal things, (Rom. 15, 25-27); and again he shows an equality in that “he that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.” — 2 Cor. 8:13 — 15. He says not to give as of covetousness or sparingly, not grudging nor of necessity (2 Cor. 9:5-12.); “as it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth forever.” — Verse 9.
“He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack: but he that hideth his eyes shall have many a curse.” — Prov. 28:27.
“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth to the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay again.” — Prov. 19:16.
How much? “Good measure, pressed down, shaken together,” etc. — Luke 6:38. Jesus tells just how to give and receive a reward. Matt. 6:1-4.
Truly, dear ones, I can say that the Lord is my shepherd, I do not want. As for me I lack no good thing and can say as Paul, “Not that I speak in respect of want; for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am. therewith to be content. I do all things through Christ Jesus which strengtheneth me.” — Phil. 4:11, 13. By God’s help I shall do my duty in telling my brethren their duty on this line more in the future than in the past. It has been the lack of real humility on my part. Pray much for me. Your brother in Christ,
J. C. PETERMAN.
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News from the Field.
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NEW MARTINSVILLE, W. VA.
DEAR BRETHREN: The Lord has brought us safely on our journey to this place. At the last place there was a good interest and general conviction, but it is a lawless place and no protection. Those who would have protected us, would thus have placed their own property in danger. We were loath to leave the dear people, but we would have met with serious damages if we had not left, as they stoned the boat. So we had to close. We expect to winter here, so this will be our permanent address.
G. T. CLAYTON.
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CLAYTON, KAN, Dec. 14.
To THE SAINTS IN NORTHWESTERN KANSAS: I wish to say to those who have corresponded with me, that I will come to you as soon as the Lord permits. He leads me now to Orange P. O., Sheridan County. God has been giving us precious brothers and sisters through salvation wherever meetings have been held. See the promise in Mark 10:30. Your saved brother,
JOHN E. ROBERTS.
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514 WICKLOW ST., EAST END, PITTSBURG, PA., Dec.12.
DEAR SAINTS OF GOD: After being confined to my home for about three months on account of sickness, I am glad to report that all are recovered sufficiently now tor me to start out in active work for the Master. Truly the past three months has been a settling down time, and we feel more able now to work for the Lord than ever before.
Leaving my dear ones at home, I came to this city on the 11th, where I found a few dear saints earnestly contending for the faith, against great opposition. We feel the hand of the Lord upon us to stay here for some time arid endeavor if possible to open up the work in other parts of the city. We humbly ask your prayers. Our address will be as above, at least for a time.
A. T. ROWE.
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OLD PEOPLE’S FAITH HOME.
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SOUTH HAVEN, MICH.
DEARLY BELOVED IN THE LORD: I feel the Lord would be pleased to have me write to the household of faith. We are praising God for his kind dealings with us. There are twelve old people at the home now. The dear Lord is so wonderfully dealing with us; we are trusting him for all we have. He heals all our diseases and keeps us from all sin. Praise his dear name! We have rented a hall and have commenced to hold meetings. The Lord is with us in power. We expect to continue the meeting all winter, as I cannot go away from home. There are several of the old people who are very feeble, are tottering with old age, but the Lord keeps them well. One dear brother from Alameda, Cal. sent us $75. 00 to use in caring for the Lord’s poor. May God bless his dear soul. How God could add blessings to the men that have means horded up, which soon will eat as does a canker, if they but used it in spreading the gospel and in caring for the poor!
This home is proving a blessing to the aged and feeble. A few have come to this home that have means to care for themselves and are helping to care for those who have no means, all as one family in the Lord. We can only receive those who have no means, as fast as the Lord provides means to care for them. The helpers in this home are giving their service, in caring for the Lord’s poor, and we all with a united faith are looking to God for our daily needs, and he does supply. Praise his dear name! From yours at the home, to all the dear saints.
S. MICHELS.
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HARTSELLS, ALA., Dec. 18.
DEAR TRUMPET READERS: May God bless you abundantly. We are still pushing the work of the Lord in the South with wonderful victory. Praise his name! After being separated for a few days holding meetings at different places in Tennessee, we met again at Huntsville, Ala. While there our night meetings were held at Dallas, a town near by. During the day we had the use of the city hall at Huntsville, but the Mormons had been holding meetings there and not many of the people would come out, as they were disgusted with Mormonism, and thought perhaps we were of the same kind. So we went to the public square and delivered the word of God in its purity, from the steps of the court-house, and compelled them to hear the truth. And when they found we were not Mormons, nor of the sect of “Latter Day Saints,” but were against all such sects and isms, and doctrines of men, they listened to the preaching of the Word, and rejoiced to hear it.
On Saturday evening, Dec. 12, we arrived at this place and began meeting at Zion, a few miles away. The church here was in • good condition to have a meeting and advance in the ways of his truth.
For some time we had been burdened for a more rapid move of the work of the Lord among his children. Although we had been having precious meetings all along the line, yet when we arrived here we felt the Lord moving us to follow the example of the apostolic church, as history tells us the early church met at least once a week very early in the morning and held services before the break of day. We appointed our first early morning meeting at five o’clock, which lasted about an hour and dismissed at break of day. This meeting was for the special purpose of spiritual advancement of the children of God by giving each a chance to present their spiritual needs and have all the others unite their prayers for the same. The result was wonderful and the meetings continued with glory and power, and many experiences were deepened and the church settled more firmly and where they could pray the prayer of faith. Sinners who came into the assembly were convicted, and salvation work is going on in the name of Jesus. Next Monday, Dec. 21, we start for Renfroe, Miss. Pray for us.
E. E. BYRUM AND WM. G. SCHELL.
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WELLAND, ONT., Dec. 19.
DEARLY BELOVED BROTHERS AND SISTERS: We again greet you in the name of the royal Christ, our Redeemer. Through his name and the blood, our souls are alive for God and his glorious work in rescuing the lost. Since our last report we have been active in the service of our Lord in accomplishing good. Much prejudice has been removed in the places where God has permitted us to labor since the Emlenton C. M.
With dear Bro. Strang before his return home, we sent forth the gospel with good effect at McLallen Corners. Little ones sunk deeper into Christ, others returned. The next place was Blystone. The gospel had the same effect. After separating from Bro. Strang, wife and I started for Tionesta. We held a few nights at Wolf’s Corners. Found the country very bitter against the truth, but the Word and the Spirit removed the cloud. The East Hickory ordinance-meeting being announced for the same time, we were called there. After preaching three discourses on the Lord’s day to a goodly congregation, much interest was manifested. The little church thought it best to continue over another Lord’s day. The hall was rented at the cost of one dollar per night. The truth went forth in the name of Jesus. Prejudice rolled very high, but praise God, much of it was broken down.
We started from there for Dutch Hill supposed union meeting-house, our next appointment. But we found ourselves disappointed, the door being closed against all that came in the name of a saint. This they claim was done because of harsh preaching. Oh may we all go forth with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit! Thank God, it turned out for good, as the saints of God are now building a house for God and his Bible. The last report we had from there the house, 24×45, was nearly completed.
Our next move was Suttons Hill, a Wesleyan Methodist settlement. Their meeting-house was refused and we opened up in the school-house, with good interest. We found souls hungering for the truth. But we had to leave before God was through with us, as one of my sisters in the flesh was lying at the point of death. But, thank God, through our much prayer and holding on to God, death was stayed for the present. Praise his name!
Our week’s meeting in praying and fasting in the little church at McLallen Corners was a glorious feast to our souls. The little ones all made a forward move for more love and humility, and to be better fortified against the enemy. Those that had been scattered got back and the melting spirit of God had its effect. By all appearance they seem to be a unit and wonderfully fortified. May God’s divine favor enable the shepherd to look after the flock.
We are now in the Dominion of Canada in the name of Jesus. We desire the prayers of all for the work in Ontario, and that our souls may strike the bottom of the humility of Christ. Our address for some time will be Welland, Ontario. Yours in defense of the gospel,
J. A. AND ALICE J. DILLON.
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Testimonies.
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LAGRO, IND.
DEAR BRETHREN IN CHRIST: I feel like writing my testimony for the first time. I am praising God for salvation that keeps me saved each day. He saves my soul and keeps me free from sin. Praise his name!
DELILA WEBB.
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WESTVILLE, O.
DEAR BRETHREN, AND TRUMPET READERS: I feel like writing my testimony for the first time. This evening finds me sweetly saved in Jesus, and trusting in God for all things. The Lord is also my physician. I can trust him for my body as well as for my soul. The psalmist says, “No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly,” and I do praise God for the feast of good things he gives me each day. Please pray for me that I may be wholly sanctified. Your sister in Christ,
JULIA SUITE.
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Obituary.
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RANDOLPH — Bro. Wm. A. Randolph was born March, 1863, and died Dec. 14, 1896; aged 33 years and about nine months. He died at his father-in-law’s, in the triumphs of faith in Christ. He labored faithfully six years in the gospel work, and many souls were turned from darkness into light. We visited him when we could, and he received much help in the Lord. He talked much of the inner life of Christ. Their little babe went on before him one month and thirteen days. His last words were, “Oh how good!” and left for his home above. He leaves a wife and one child, two brothers and a sister or more, with many friends, to mourn their loss. Bro. and Sisters Newkirk and Hewitt were present at the funeral.
Wm. N. and S. J. Smith.
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BARNARD. — Mrs. Belle Barnard of Aurora Springs, Mo. departed this life Dec. 3, 1836; aged twenty-five years nine months arid twenty-three days. Sister Barnard had lung disease; had been on the decline for over a year and gradually grew worse until death brought a sweet relief. Sister Barnard made a profession of sanctification and had a bright experience, and passed away in the triumphs of faith. She leaves a husband and two email children to mourn their loss.
B, H. Stewart.
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De Aubigne’s History of the Reformation.
_____
This book is too well known to need much description. It gives an elaborate account of the
GREAT REFORMATION OF THE SIXTEENTH CENTURY,
led by Martin Luther and others. It also tells you about Luther’s birth, his youth, his conversion, and first labors, etc. It has been well said that “Truth is stranger than fiction, and will always prevail,” and, as we read this truthful and intensely interesting historic record of God’s wonderful dealings with men, in defeating their plans and establishing his truth, we cannot but stand in awe and delightful amazement at his wonderful display of wisdom and mighty power. This is a
NEW TRANSLATION CONTAINING
THE AUTHOR’S LATEST IMPROVEMENTS,
with three full-page steel engravings, and two hundred other illustrations including portraits of the most eminent reformers. It is a fine edition of this standard work, large size, measuring outside when closed, about 8 x 10,5 inches and containing 728 large double-column pages. Strongly bound in cloth.
Price, postpaid, $2.25.
==========
The Works of FLAVIUS JOSEPHUS.
This is another equally valuable book, well known as a standard work of great value as a historical record. It gives a
HISTORY OF THE CREATION, DELUGE,
TOWER OF BABEL, ETC.,
and it gives probably the best and most complete account of the rise, progress, and final destruction of the Jewish nation, there is extant. This author lived at the time, and was an eye witness of the destruction of Jerusalem, and his vivid and detailed description of the awful sufferings endured by the Jews is sufficient evidence to convince the most skeptical of the truth of the Savior’s predictions in the 24th chapter of Matthew. In general it comprises
“The Antiquities of the Jews,” a “History
of the Jewish Wars,” and “Life of
Flavius Josephus,”
written by himself, together with three dissertations concerning Jesus Christ, John the Baptist, James the Just, etc. It is a large work. 978 double-column pages neatly bound in cloth.
Price postpaid, only $1.50.
The same with seventy-nine illustrations, bound in law sheep, library style, Price $2.25.
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Fox’s Book of Martyrs.
“All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” Often do we hear these words used, but how few there are who know anything about real persecution — much less, have suffered the same.
THIS BOOK IS A COMPILATION
FROM “FOX’S BOOK OF MARTYRS,”
including much additional matter not in the original. It begins with the martyrdom of Stephen and follows with incidents connected with the death of Christ’s apostles. It pictures vividly the horrors of the butcheries perpetrated by Catholicism, and gives a history of the persecution of Christians in all lands, down to 1830. Contains also sketches of lives of eminent reformers, and an account of the French Revolution of 1789.
You should read it and know what has been and what may be, before
“The evening shall be as the morning,”
Over 500 pages, neatly bound in cloth, and
All for 50 cts. THINK OF IT.
GOSPEL TRUMPET PUB. CO.
Grand Junction, Mich.
Page 4
Divine Healing
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Reasons Why Jesus Healed
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THE TREE OF LIFE.
We will first notice the privileges that God offered to man before the fall and see if there was not healing in the salvation plan then; and if so, the redemption through Jesus will bring back or restore man to his primitive privileges, in healing as well as salvation. Then if healing is in the redemption plan, it is the inheritance of all God’s children, our redemption right — a wonderful reason why Jesus healed while on earth, and equally as good for the healing of all saints now as for those in past ages.
“And God said, Behold I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a true yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.” — Gen. 1:29.
Verse 30 tells us the same was to be meat for beasts, fowls, and creeping things, etc. The physical organization of man receives food as a natural source of perpetuity, supporting the life principle in man.
But God knew all the liabilities of man violating the laws that governed his physical life. So in addition to the natural but complete food list (or bill of fare) which God had prepared for man, he gave him the tree of life in the midst of the garden, as a panacea for all diseases, so that his life would be perpetuated.
“And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.” — Gen. 2:8, 9.
We see here that after the food list there is also (in addition) the “tree of life,” which signifies something more than an ordinary tree, or ordinary food. All good and wholesome food is an ordinary means, as we previously stated, to perpetuate life. But here was a tree that afforded life more than ordinary. When the ordinary food failed to sustain life, this was a never-failing source — a “tree of life.”
“And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” — Gen. 2:15-17.
As long as man was obedient and did not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, he had full privilege to all the benefits of the “tree of life.”
Now compare this tree of life ‘before the fall with the tree of life after the fall, in Rev. 22:2 — “And the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” This beautifully unlocks the mystery of the tree of life which affords healing.
It is not our business to analyze the tree of life or the tree of knowledge of good and evil, from a scientific standpoint, but simply God “said” and the virtue of life was there. God “said” and the knowledge of good and evil was there. So by faith we understand that by the word of God the heavens and the earth were created, etc.
THE FALL OF MAN.
Doubtless you are familiar with the record of Adam’s disobedience recorded in the third chapter of Genesis. So after Adam and Eve had sinned, and become ashamed and hid themselves among the trees, God talked with them again and gave them other commandments and promises, etc.; also telling them the consequences of their disobedience, and what they had forfeited.,
“And the Lord God said, Behold the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever: therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.” — Gen. 3:22-24.
All former privileges were forfeited by the disobedience. So it took a perfect atonement to redeem man. or restore him to former (or equal) privileges. Through Adam all was lost; through Christ all is gained — made alive. “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”
THE DEATH SENTENCE.
“In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die,” made a clean sweep; and man was banished from healing from the tree of life.
Now if there is no divine source of life through the atonement, then the atonement is not complete, and there is more lost in the fall than there is gained in the redemption. But our opponents to divine healing will doubtless admit the life after death — after we cross the river. However, thank God, we find the “tree of life on either side the river,” and in it “healing for the nations.” Hallelujah!
Yes, healing on this side of the river. Jesus is the tree of life. “I am the life, the truth, and the way.” “I am come that ye might have life and that ye might have it more abundantly.” “I came not to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” Also the following scriptures show healing in the atonement:
“Himself took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses.” — Matt. 8:17.
“Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.” — Psa. 103:3.
“Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” — 1 Pet. 2:24.
“He was wounded for our transgressions. he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” — Isa. 53:5.
We see forgiveness for sins, and healing followed Christ’s personal ministry; and it would be impossible for him to incorporate healing in his ministry unless the proposed atonement through the sacrifice of himself included toe same.
We make a bold assertion, fearing no successful contradiction: Christ never has and never will do anything for mankind more than what is included in the atonement. He has no blessings nor privileges to offer only what he has paid for through his own death and resurrection.
Hence, a reason for his work of divine healing during his personal ministry. Healing is in the atonement. It is ours as much to-day, if we will accept it by faith, as for any one who received his divine touch in the past. Healing is our redemption right, our inheritance. Let us claim it, receive it, possess it, enjoy it, preach it, and praise God through all eternity for it. Amen.
G. L. COLE.
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Help the Weak.
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“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbor for his good to edification.” — Rom. 15:1, 2.
For some time my heart has been stirred on this subject, and more so quite recently. We feel it is well for all God’s children, and more especially the workers in the field. Now, dear brethren, in the judgment day we will have to stand before every soul which we deal with here, and more than that before a just God. Therefore in the light of heaven’s truth let us examine ourselves on this line.
Have you used all love, meekness, longsuffering and gentleness, or have you used force and harshness? We are not to live to please ourselves; but our neighbor, for his good to edification. Brethren, I fear that precious souls have been driven to the world and to an awful hell because instead of a helping hand being lent to assist them they have been crushed by almost tyrannical power. God help us to keep out of iron jacket rule!
“Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.” — Rom. 14:1.
Dear ones that were weak have had even their weak experience shattered because they have not been received and their testimony taken. I have seen dear ones passing through some hard trials, and because of the burden resting on them, they would be hindered from testifying, and really would not appear to have much, if any, spiritual life.
Because of this, some have been rejected and have been told that they were not saved, etc.; and some would even get them to reconsecrate (without conviction), and the result would be that they would get into a more bewildered condition than before. Then to finish it, the workers would send a report to the TRUMPET of so many consecrations and the “church straightened out” — when actually, the experience of such was made worse, and the next time the workers came there they found the little flock in a worse condition than the last.
Some have been rejected merely from supposition, when really nothing could be pointed to in their experience. Then probably something in the past would be pointed to as the cause, which had been under the blood long before. In the name of Jesus, brethren, after anything has been repented of and made right, do not stir up the past; let the past be the past. God’s word tells us he will “remember our sins against us no more forever.”
Soon after I was saved I called to see a man with whom I had to make a wrong right. With prejudice in his heart against the saints, he commenced to go over my past life and to bring up everything he could think of. I answered him thus: “Yes, this is all true, but these are all past and have been forgiven and made right as far as I could; but can you put your finger on one of these things that I am doing now, since I am saved?” He was silent.
Brethren, this is just what some of the workers have done. Things which have been forgiven and made right have been stirred up and this has been the means of shattering weak experiences.
Dear ones, we are dealing with souls for eternity and unless God shows you the defect, do not discourage the weak, but strengthen and lift them up. We should receive the weak, but not to doubt their experience and dispute about the same.
There have been those that have backslidden, and have returned unto the Lord when alone or in some meeting, and would arise and testify to the same; and some would not take their testimony, because they did not consecrate under them.
Dear ones, this is tyranny. I know of just such cases, where because their testimony was not accepted they were forced to reconsecrate, which actually gave room for the devil to come in with a flood of accusations, and this gave them a weaker experience than before. Such will not make progress as they should, because they will be timid of accepting God’s promises; and if they should accept them, they will not feel like testifying to the same, simply because some one does not believe them.
CAUTION.
“But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling-block to them that are weak. And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish for whom Christ died,” — 1 Cor. 8:9, 11.
Another point. When you go to hold a meeting do not always make your home with those who furnish the best table or who have the softest bed, or who wait on you the most or are the most spiritual; but it is those who have the poorest table, the hardest bed, or those who lack courtesy or those who have a very weak experience — these are the ones whom we are to help along “Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.” — Isa. 35:3.
The poorest, most despised, and hardest persecuted and tried are those whom we should comfort with some encouraging words. Also in corresponding with the dear ones, do not write only to the most spiritual, or to those who used you best, or those who would enclose stamps or money in your letters.
I have known of those who have kept up correspondence with others who have given liberally of their means — while at the same time they talked about them to others — while others (who have not been able to contribute means, because they did not have the same) have been neglected.
Brethren, our God is not a respecter of persons, and the Word tells us “if we have respect to persons, we commit sin.”
“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, SUPPORT THE WEAK, be patient toward all men.” — 1 Thess. 5:14.
B. F. WEIKEL.
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Testimonies.
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TILDEN, PA.
DEAR TRUMPET READERS: I am still saved and kept by the power of God. I am glad to tell you that my request that was in the GOSPEL TRUMPET was answered. We had the straight word of God preached in the power of the Spirit. We rejoiced to hear the present truth, and we received light and strength on our heavenward journey. We hope there was some seed sown that will bear fruit to the honor and glory of God. We would be glad to hear some of the saints again before long. You will find a home among us any time you come to our little village. During the meeting there were three cases of healing. Praise the Lord for his goodness’ I have lived far below my privileges, but I mean to improve the time by the grace of God. Dear saints, keep praying for us that we may walk in the true light. A sister in Christ,
MARY ARNOLD.
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ELM GROVE, MO.
DEAR SAINTS EVERYWHERE: I feel that it would be to the glory of God for me to write my testimony this afternoon. I can praise the Lord that I am saved and kept by his power. Oh I know the Lord does all things well! I can also praise him for his healing power. My little girl, eight years old, was healed of chills. She and I prayed, but our faith was not strong enough. I asked her if she wanted to take medicine, and told her we would have to do something. She was not able to be up, but she said that the Lord would heal her, and for us to send for some of the saints to come and pray for her. She said she was willing to suffer till the Lord did heal her. So when the saints came, we prayed and she was healed, for which we give God all the glory. Also my little boy, four years old, was healed of chills. I wrote to the TRUMPET family for them to pray for him, and the Lord healed him. O I cannot praise him enough for his goodness. I want you all to pray that I may be kept very humble and low down at the Master’s feet. Pray also for my unsaved husband, that he may come to the Savior before too late. Your sister in the one body,
ISIS STALCUP.
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Advancement.
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Please the Lord.
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“FURTHERMORE then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.” — 1 Thess. 4:1.
He who would make spiritual advancement must ever retain within his bosom a desire to please the Lord in all things. And this desire must be great enough to eclipse every other desire of the heart. But good desires alone are not sufficient. They must be put into practice as fast as the precious light from heaven dawns upon our way.
There is a particular portion of the Word, with obedience to which, we read that God is well pleased, and it is to this that we wish to call attention in this article. “But to do good and to communicate [give] forget not; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” — Heb. 13:16. It seems that many of the Lord’s people are very forgetful of their duty of giving. God commands every saint to lay something by for the Lord every Lord’s day, yet many of the saints pay no attention to this commandment.
If we were to judge from outward appearance, we would think the church of God had no financial system, when God’s word sets forth the most practical financial system that could be desired. It is this: “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him instore, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.” — 1 Cor. 16:2.
Observe how he commands “every one” to lay something by for the Lord’s cause on the Lord’s day. It seems that many of the dear ones look upon this as a mere privilege, when the word of God commands it as the real duty, of every Christian.
In apostolical times treasuries were established in every congregation. And when the brethren went to meeting on Sunday morning they all endeavored to have something to put into the Lord’s treasury. In this the saints were enabled to do more for the cause than by any other system imaginable.
Now, dear brethren, we are not living to this part of the Word. In many churches there has never been any treasury established. And in many places where they have a treasury, scarcely anybody pays any attention to it. The church has a great advancement to make on this line before she will have the approval of God upon her in all things. God will never bestow upon us apostolical power until we reach the apostolical standard of giving.
I do not see how we are going to retain the grace of God in our souls if we do not measure up to this part of the word; for in many places it is as well understood as the command to repent and be baptized; and “to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” — Jas.4:17.
The cause of God could be moved much faster if there was more means with which to send forth literature and ministers to the work. Now why not be doers and get the blessings instead of forgetful hearers and fail to receive the blessings? Let us move up to the Bible standard on this line and prove the Lord, if he will not open the windows of heaven and pour us out a blessing that we have not room to receive.
Let us as ministers of the gospel give this part of the Word the same attention we give the rest of the teachings of the scriptures. Many of the Lord’s ministers are timid on this line because the sect preachers make money the hobby of their meetings. But we ought not so to be. We can teach the New Testament system of gathering freewill offerings and expose the money-grabbing of Babylonians with perfect consistency.