Gospel Trumpet – 25 February 1892

25 February 1892, Volume 12, Number 9.

A SNOW STORM.

Softly and silent the beautiful snow
Is falling from heights above;
While the wind is held breathless,
The storm clouds bend low
To cover the earth with beautiful snow.

The beautiful crystal flakes of snow
In numberless myriads lie
On earth’s dark bosom serene.
To await the return of an Orient glow
Which changes in nature the beautiful snow.

An emblem of purity — the beautiful snow,
The purest that Nature can give;
So rich in blessing the earth to refresh;
In all Nature’s store no gift can she show
To exceed in whiteness the beautiful snow.

But let earth and sky their blessings combine,
And aim with Heaven to vie,
There is a blessing surpasses them all; —
The crimson tide of Calvary’s flow
Will wash and cleanse ns whiter than snow.

Nancy Byers.

__________

Revealing the Man of Sin.

God moves in wondrous ways to bring his children to the knowledge of the truth. To glorify him therefore we give some of his dealings with us. Nine years ago found me an M. E. “of good standing,” without a particle of salvation, having lived therein nine years without hearing the great doctrine of sanctification preached from her pulpits. A Wesleyan Methodist came to our town teaching two works of grace. In listening thereto conviction came that it was Bible truth. Considering myself a Christian because of trying to do right, yet realizing a great deficiency supposed it was from not being sanctified; so began to consecrate to God and finally received a wonderful blessing which was considered sanctification, and to which I testified for four years, realizing that a great change had been wrought in my heart; that those evil dispositions that had required great contention were under control: but often catching a glimpse of a standard much higher. The M. E’s opposing the teaching of sanctification by faith as a second grace, and the Wesleyan holding thereto those who believed in the doctrine, formed themselves into a Wesleyan sect. Walking in all the light we had we left the M. E. and joined the Wesleyans. Finally in reading the 12th chapter 1 Cor. we saw the evil of sectism, and caught a glimpse of the church of God, so the sect was given up and the holiness people met together for worship, receiving any preacher who taught holiness. Then came a Free Methodist teaching the experience of sanctification so much deeper and clearer that my soul was convicted of its needs by the word and I sought diligently the Holy Ghost baptism. God taking me into the valley of humilation, showing me that “I am crucified with Christ,” bringing before me a wonderful consecration to himself to each item of which my hungry soul said, Amen Lord. Then bringing to mind the precious promise that the Lord is more willing to give the Spirit to them that ask than we are to give good things to our little ones, faith grasped the promise and the Holy Ghost came to abide in sanctifying power. Bless the Lord! Now came a test of loyalty to God. Two days after the baptism of the Holy Ghost the “Church question” came before me for settlement at the family altar. I tried to put it off for some other time, but God pressed it upon me till I lost sight of surroundings and turned the question over and over in every possible way. Finally crying out in despair, “Oh my Father, I can’t depend upon my judgment, for it has failed so many times! Oh I can’t depend on others, for they are mortal and liable to err also!” Then the Holy Ghost brought to my remembrance the promise, “When the Comforter is come he shall guide you into all truth.” And quickly came the answer, “Oh Father, I must, and do take the word and the Holy Ghost to guide therein.” Oh the sweet calm and assurance that rested upon my soul! Then taking my Bible day after day to my closet, studying it on my knees before God, comparing scripture with scripture, I beheld the church of God in its beauty; In answer to prayer the F. M’s were prevented from organizing their sect and a brother came preaching the “everlasting gospel” and introducing us to the children of God walking in this evening light. Bless the Lord, oh my soul!

Before the F. M. preacher left he preached on the 2d chapter of 2 Thess. making the man of sin to mean the carnal nature. The sermon was very unsatisfactory to me, although no teaching on the subject had been received. Shortly after, a home study of the chapter revealed to me the man of sin so clearly that, if it had been possible, every sectarian within many miles should have been warned. The opportunity came the next winter to warn some, who paid no heed, turning their ears from the truth.

Let those interested read carefully 2 Thess. 2, noticing in the first three verses the Lord’s coming is spoken of in connection with a falling away. In searching the references we find it is a falling away from the faith once delivered to the saints. — 1 Tim. 4:1- 4; 2 Tim. 3:1-10; also 4:3, 4; 2 Pet. 3:3-6. Next is the revealing of the man of sin, showing that he is hidden but must be brought to light before the Lord’s coming. Next we find what he is doing, exalting himself above God, and next where he is to be found, in the temple of God. So we search the word of God to find what is the temple of God; in Zech. 6:12, 13, 15, and Jer. 33:5, 6, we find the temple is built by the “Branch,” “Our Righteousness,” which is Christ, and in Matt. 16:18 he says, “Upon this rock I will build my church;” and in Eph. 2:19-22, We are built upon the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ the chief corner stone, a holy temple in the Lord. In 1 Cor. 3:16, 17. The children of God are termed the temple of God. We notice the pronoun is plural while temple is singular number, thus many make one; applying this to our lesson we find this man of sin is among the children of God and is ignorantly worshiped or honored more than God, thus exalted above God. So we want to understand God’s position in his temple. Zech. 6:13 says, The Lord shall bare the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne, and the council of peace shall be between them both. In Jer. 23:5, 6, He shall execute judgment and justice. In Eph. 5. 23:24, we learn that Christ is the head of the Church (or temple) which is subject to him. Now in each sect which claims to be a church of God is a man power arising from the carnal nature of man, therefore the “man of sin” taking upon itself the exalted office of governing, controlling and teaching God’s children, and as they in ignorance submit thereto they are honoring that man power, thus exalting it above God.

The pope of the Roman Catholic sect stands forth as this power personified, as he claims to be the head of the church and his wisdom infallible; but every man or set of men who take upon themselves the power to organize and discipline what is claimed to be the church of God, are only taking unto themselves the pope’s attributes and thus is the man of sin revealed in the temple of God, even him whose coming is after Satan with all signs and lying wonders and deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. From this we see how he gained possession of his throne. By the anointing, every yoke is broken. For God attains his rightful place as supreme Creator and controller, and the Comforter leads into all truth, making clear God’s will to his subjects. Bless the Lord! The time of this man’s revealing is now, and many are beholding and abhoring him through belief of the truth. Praise ye the Lord!

Jennie C. Rutty.

__________

Not Methodism but Bible.

Bro. D. S. Warner,

Dear Sir: In your last copy, I read the item,“ From sin to sanctification,” by one, Wickersham. It struck me as rather a Methodist sort of doctrine. And as I find they and all other sects have the word of God pretty much turned upside down, thought I’d address you, and kindly point out a few passages for explanation. Do you, beloved brethren, generally confirm the Methodist holiness doctrine? A growth in sanctification or holiness none object to. I believe one born again is sanctified by the precious blood, white as snow. Then comes the walk which can be sanctified by obedience to his Spirit which dwells forever in all that believe. — Eph 1:13. We have sanctification by his blood. — Heb. 13:12. We have sanctification through regeneration by the Spirit. — Titus 3:5. We have sanctification by the word of God. — John 17:17. We have sanctification through fellowship with Him. — 2 Cor. 3:18. We have sanctification through separation. — 2 Tim. 2:21. We have sanctification through the hope of His coming. — 1 John 3:3. We have sanctification through the rod. — Heb 12:10.

The article I read seems to indicate one had no part with the above until the old Adam nature was destroyed entirely. We have mortal bodies, not immortal, and is it not true if we are honest that the old Adam nature lurks about us, and will give way to sin at every opportunity. However it is not charged against us. His blood answers for all; thus we hear, “By one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified ……… and their sins and iniquites will I remember no more.” — Heb. 10:14-17. Then we hear in connection with this, “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin.” — 1 John 3:9. Does not the above meet with the interpretation you have? Please reply in your columns and send me a copy.

With love, your brother,

A. Tessenden.

87, Board of Trade Bldg,
Chicago, Ill.

Answer.

Though it is true that sectism is full of error, it is also true that about all, and doubtless we may say all sects hold and teach truth on some points. The Wesleys taught the truth in the main on the experience of holiness. Especially in the fact of the two works of grace. And it was this clear definite teaching that once made them a mighty power for God, and their best men have confessed that just in proportion as they have departed from that glorious doctrine they have departed from God, and become a proud, empty, dead sect on earth. But in the broadest sense of holiness and all its fruits, and concomitants, the Wesleys nor their successors, never reached the complete Bible plane of holiness. They never discerned the body of Christ, nor comprehended the fact that “both He that sanctifieth, and they who are sanctified, are all of one.” — Heb. 2:11. Neither did they in their day grasp the glorious gift of healing, and the other gifts of the Spirit. Therefore we do not teach holiness as a Methodist doctrine, but accept and teach it as we find it in the Bible; as of the Lord, and not of men. Neither did we receive the experience through Methodist literature or preaching, but the Spirit took the things of Christ written in his word and showed them unto us.

“A growth in holiness none object to.” It is indeed a very precious privilege and duty to grow in holiness. But to grow into it is a delusion the devil himself is the author of, and of course does not object to it. Nor will he ever raise any persecutions against men for teaching such a theory; for the simple reason he knows it will never purify a heart, nor disturb his own kingdom. Growth is a fact in both the justified, and wholly sanctified state. But growth is no more the process of entering the latter state than the former. No sinner can grow into, or cultivate himself into a justified relation to God, and no “born again” child of God can thus attain entire sanctification. Two facts will settle this. First, perfect holiness is the restoration of the “divine nature’’ to the soul. — 2 Peter 1:4. It therefore involves a change of our moral nature. But growth changes the nature of nothing only its size. Second, entire sanctification is identified with perfection. — Heb. 10:14. Now if a soul could reach perfection by growth, that would preclude the idea of further growth; for surely nothing has grown to perfection while yet growing. But the idea that we shall reach a point in this life, or in the world to come, beyond which there can be no further development in spiritual wisdom, power and glory, is not taught in the Bible, nor sustained by reason.

“I believe one born again is sanctified by the precious blood, white as snow.” Yes, there is a degree of holiness or santification imparted in regeneration. The fundamental thing in holiness is purity; this is dearly seen in 2 Cor. 7:1, and 1 Thess. 4:7. To be justified and born of God is therefore to have a measure of holiness because we are purged, cleansed, purified, from our past sins, and the guilt therefrom arising, and enabled to live so far sanctified that we do not commit sin. — Heb. 10:22. 1 John 3:9. But after entering this experience what, says our brother, is yet our experience? “Is it not true, if we are honest, that the old Adam nature lurks about us, and will give way to sin at every opportunity?” Yes, my brother, this is the experience of every justified child of God, until that evil nature is destroyed in the second grace. Only we should be a little more candid yet and confess that this Adam nature actually lurks within us. The temptation that gives him a desire to move is from without, but the “old man” lurks within, as described by the apostle, “sin that dwelleth in me.” — Rom. 7:17. This dual state of things, Paul sets forth to show the Roman converts their condition; but testified that he himself was free from the same. See Rom. 8:1, 2.

Now we are surprised that our brother could identify that state with Christian perfection. No, perfection lies beyond that, and is entered by a second work of grace. The first disciples had followed Christ in the regenerated state, — Matt. 19:28, and yet were not made perfect, or wholly sanctified. Hence, Christ prayed the Father to give it to them. — John 17:17. He promised it to them. — John 14:16-21; 15:26; 16: 13-16. They also received this glorious experience, not by growth, but suddenly. — Acts. 2:1-4. And the same two instantaneous works of grace are seen by illuminated eyes in the Acts, and in every one of the Epistles. But we will only give place to the texts cited by the writer, which he supposes incompatible with holiness as a second work of grace. The first is Eph. 1:13. — In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also, after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise. Right here we see the two works of grace. When the sinner believes in the Lord he is instantly pardoned, and born of God, and “after that ye believed ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.” So you see the glorious sealing, sanctifying power is attained after we become believers. Next it is said, “We have sanctification by the blood.” Heb. 13:12. — Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate. Here we see that sanctification is wrought by the Lord Jesus, and by an application of his blood. This proves that it is not a growth, for the blood cleanseth. And cleansing is a rapidly performed work, and not a gradual one.

“Through regeneration by the spirit”. Titus 3:5. — “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” Here is a misconception of the scriptures. Regeneration in that text is not sanctification. But the renewal of the Spirit, spoken of after regeneration. This text clearly shows the two works of grace. First, regeneration, second the renewal, which restores the image of God to the soul, the moral purity in which God created Adam. See Col. 3:10.

“By the word of God.” — John 17:17. In this text the foundation of our faith is presented. Believing the promise of God, the blood is applied, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, entire sanctification is effected. This we see in 2 Thess. 2:13. But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you. brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.

“Through fellowship with Him.” — 2 Cor. 3:18. Fellowship is not mentioned in the text, but two works of grace are there brought to view. We all with open face, — justified, — beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, — His own holiness — are changed into the same image — the same moral purity in which Adam was created. — Gen. 1:26. Into which we are restored by the grace of God. — Col. 3:10. And this change is wrought by the Spirit of God, and is from glory to glory. From the glory of justification to the glory of entire sanctification. This is not by going to heaven but by the operation of the Holy Spirit, as the text says.

“Through separation. — 2 Tim. 2:21. Amen!

“Through the hope of his coming.” — 1 Jno. 3:3.

The hope of meeting Christ in peace does not produce sanctification, but “every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself even as he is pure.” Namely, as we have shown through the blood of Christ. — See 1 John 1:7. Here again the two works of grace are brought to view. No sinner has this hope in him. But regeneration, which is one work of grace, puts the hope in us. And next, to fully fit su for the holiness, and society of heaven, the justified comes to the all cleansing blood and purifies himself even as Christ is pure. This destroys the Adam nature, the “old man,” all inbred sin, and makes us pure as Christ is; that is quite a different standard than that seen in our brother’s views as seen above.

“Sanctified through the rod.” — Heb. 12:10. This scurging is God’s way of bringing his children to the point where the blood sanctifies wholly. The text and connection shows two works of grace. First, become the children of God, — regenerated, — Second, partake of God’s own holiness. So it seems our brother made a very poor selection of scriptures from which to argue against the second grace. Praise God! we know that that old lurking foe is destroyed. Amen.

Page 2

THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.

__________

A WEEKLY HOLINESS JOURNAL.

__________

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

__________

PUBLISHED AT GRAND JUNCTION, MICH.

__________

D. S. WARNER, – Editor.

E. E. BYBUM, – Office Editor.

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

__________

TERMS, $1.00 Per Year In Advance.

FREE TO THE POOR.

==========

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

__________

NOTICE.

All business communications, moneys, etc., must be addressed to the GOSPEL TRUMPET, in order to insure credit; otherwise we will not be responsible.

__________

NOTICE.

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

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

__________

NOTICE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

==========

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.

__________

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

__________

A tract on the True Church. 50 pages. 10 cts

A tract on the Sabbath, or Which Day to Keep 65 pages. 10 cst.

Marriage and Divorce, a tract of 32 pages. 5 cts

The Age To Come, and Millennium Tradition Refuted by the inspired Word of God. 56 pages. Single copy 10 cts.

Questions and Answers on the Church. 32 pages. 1 cent each. Per hundred $1 00

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

__________

The Ordinances of the New Testament

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.

__________

THE SHINING LIGHT.

An interesting paper for the children. Illustrated. It should be in every family where there are children. Only 25 cents a year.

Address — The Shining Light,
Grand Junction, Mich.

__________

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

__________.

THE BIBLE READINGS.

Bible readings or references on about 100 subjects. Price 15 cents each.

HOLINESS BIBLE SUBJECTS.

By H. C. W.

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.

Address H. C. Wickersham, New Pittsburg, Ind. or Gospel Trumpet, Grand Junction, Mich.

__________

ANTHEMS FROM THE THRONE.

FORTH EDITION.

This book contains 148 songs. 90 with music. About all new When sung in the Spirit of God these songs will be found glorious. They hymn the precious present truth, and the gospel standard of salvation.

Send in your orders for Anthems from the Throne a and start the songs of praise anew.

PRICE	(Manilla . . . . . . . . . . 30 cts.
	(Cloth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 “
	(Per dozen . . . . . . . . $3 00 & $4.80

LIST OF MONEY LETTERS RECEIVED SINCE LAST ISSUE, NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED.

Mrs. R. Thornburg, Geo. E. Bolds, A. B. Stanbery, A. A. Kinzie, Wm. Weaver. J. N. Howard 2. R. G. Moon. T. E. White.

==========

REQUESTS FOR PRAYER.

Pray for the healing of Father Jesse Shinn, of La Grippe.

__________

Sister Shaw, of Hazzard, Pa. requests the saints to pray for her afflicted husband, that he may be healed.

__________

Pray earnestly for Emeline Going, that she may be sanctified wholly. Pray the last day of Feb. specially.

__________

EDITORIAL NOTES.

Bro. H. T. Gibson writes: “If any one wishes my assistance in the gospel, address me here at Custards, Pa.”

__________

Bro. and Sister Walters write that they expect to begin a meeting at Six Points, Wood Co., O. about Feb. 20. They are doubtless there now.

__________

The work of the Lord is prospering in Allegan. An opera hall is filled with hearers every night. Many endorse the truth, and several souls have been saved.

__________

Do not forget, dear saints, to contribute your mite to relieve dear Bro. Howard of his debt. Let the elder present the matter before the saints, and all throw together a little at each place at your next meeting, and the amount will soon be raised. Please, dear brethren, let us show something of the primitive love in helping one another. Amen.

__________

We are sorry to announce that the Trumpet of Feb. 11th is exhausted. We regret that a larger edition was not published, but our stock of paper fell short. The subject so clearly presented in that No. by Bro. Wickersham, will be similarly treated in Bro. Byrum’s book on “Divine Healing of Soul and Body,” and well illustrated. The book will be ready in a few weeks.

__________

With the tract scattered abroad which gives the New Testament teaching respecting marriage and divorce there seems to be no necessity that we give space to the answer of questions which the scriptures there presented clearly answer. The tract was written to save the labor and space in frequently writing in answer to questions of that kind. In that tract all can read that we stand opposed to all looseness respecting the marriage covenant, and contend for the sacredness of the marriage relation to the Bible standard in all things. Nor will we countenance any one in abandoning husband or wife without Bible reasons, nor recognize such as fit to go out and work for God.

__________

Some one sent us an article cut from the Christian Advocate, a Methodist paper, professedly holiness. It is a strong repudiation of the way of holiness taught in the word of God, and acknowledged in original Methodist standards. This carnal priest of fallen Babylon, says, in the defiance of the word, and the testimony of the founders of his sect, and the testimony of all the witnesses in primitive Methodism: “I am skeptical on the ‘second blessing’ theory of it, — sanctification — and also opposed to it, on the ground that I believe it to be a dangerous heresy.

Behold the blindness! This is putting “darkness for light and light for darkness.” Sanctification, the “second grace,” now improperly called “second blessing,” in sect ranks, when it was taught, enforced and enjoyed by many in that sect, had the effect to cause them to dress plain, live humble, and worship God in the Spirit; and since it is abandoned, the sect has become proud, worldly, selfish, bigoted, idolatrous, dead, godless, and sinful; and yet the source of the former fruits is now badly denounced as a dangerous heresy, by the fallen priests of Baal.

Brother and Sister Joshua and Elizabeth Walters write us, Jan. 24: We are now engaged in a series of meetings in Father Roush’s house, near Rising Sun, O. “ Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” This Lord’s day the dear saints came together in the name of Jesus, had prayers and children’s meeting, and after preaching, six dear ones presented themselves at the altar for the salvation of their souls. Among the number was Amandus, Father Roush’s youngest son. O what a time of weeping and rejoicing! Expect to remain about a week, then go to the Feaster meeting-house.

__________

To all the saints in these parts.

Beloved, the saints have procured the beautiful camp ground one mile north of Grand Junction, by the side of Lester lake. To the many saints and friends who have been anxious to help work on it before spring work begins, we wish to announce Tuesday and Wednesday, March 1st and 2d, as days of general rally to begin the work. There are sixty-six acres of land, and upon it is a vast amount of timber going to waste that can be used in our large furnace in the office, and it is much needed. There is also saw timber to be cut and hauled to the mill about a mile away to furnish lumber and studding for building purposes, and hitching railing. A large pavilion must be built and seated, and a boarding-house erected. Every body is invited to come with whatever he can bring: teams, saws, axes, mauls, etc. Come in the name of the Lord. Should the weather be bad at that time, if the Lord should favor us on March 3d and 4th we will devote those days. Whosoever will let him come. We would also say to brethren at a distance who are at leisure and wish to work with their hands for the Lord, that presently carpenters and other help will be needed to put up the pavilion and other buildings and railing. There will soon be a house erected and some family we trust move in, so the workers will be provided with a home. Unless a good many turn out there will be a month or two of work needed.

==========

Testimony of Healing.

In the Jan. 14 No. of Trumpet I noticed a request for prayers for healing from Sister Ella Booher of La Grange, Ind., for their baby which has a sore eye. I feel led to testify through the Trumpet for the benefit of this sister and others, and to the glory of God, to what he has done for us in a case similar to the one mentioned. Our baby Laud, who is now about 20 months old, was born with a sore eye, which grew worse as the child grew, until the lid became so inflamed that the eye was nearly swollen shut at times, and the white of the eye so blood-shot that it looked very much as though it would remain defective for life, if not become altogether blind. We took it to the Lord in prayer and believed it would be healed, but it kept getting worse. While away from home, when baby was about three months old, wife wrote me that I should hold on to God for baby’s eye, as it was no better. I again presented the case into the Father’s care in a consecration which I thought was perfect, and rested assured that our prayers were answered. Upon reaching home I found to my utter astonishment, that the eye was worse. This brought me to a thorough examination of myself and with a submissive heart looked to the Lord in my own behalf and seemed to forget all about the child. Right there I was shown that I had a little concealed pride in my child, and instead of being willing that if God saw proper to let the eye become blind, I found a fixed determination in my heart that it should not be so, and with my iron will I rather dictated to the Lord instead of meeting his conditions as an humble petitioner. But before this I seemed to be wholly un- concious of this fact. I at once dropped all these obstacles, which had been like Achan in Israel’s camp, and this time with the perfect consciousness that I had now done all I could, and knowing the gift was all upon the altar we again laid on hands in the name of Jesus and took a death grip upon the promises. We arc grateful to tell you, dear reader, that in twenty-four hours from that time no one could have possibly told by the looks of the eyes, which one had been sore. All glory and praise be to God! This was a wonderful lesson to me and since has proved a great blessing, inasmuch as it shows that as long as there is the least obstacle in the way on our part the blessings will be withheld. We can also testify that the eye has never shown any soreness since, but in every respect is and has been perfectly whole. Praise the dear Lord!

Your humble and unworthy brother in Christ,

J. W. Byers.

1021 15th St., San Diego, Cal.

==========

NEWS FROM THE FIELD.

Geneva, Ind., Feb. 17, 1892.

We just closed a blessed meeting three miles west of Portland, Ind., at Willow Chapel meeting-house. The meeting lasted two weeks, during which time the God of our salvation enabled us to set forth the truth as it is in Christ Jesus, with victory in our souls. Oh hallelujah to Jesus! It is so sweet to feel God in the truth to fasten it on the hearts and minds of the people. During the meeting many were made to see the one church, and that we can by the grace of God live a sinless life in this present evil world. A brother from Portland was set free from sin and sectism, also a sister was saved from sin and the awful use of tobacco. God saved her from the appetite when she consecrated her all to him, and also baptized her with the Holy Spirit. A prayer meeting is started in Portland as the fruits of this meeting. God has in this town five saints out in this evening light, free in the Spirit, and others are almost persuaded to yield. I think there were ten different ones in all that came for pardon and sanctification. God bless the dear saints at Portland and at Willow Chapel, for their kindness to us in seeing to all our needs. We expect to return soon and attend to the ordinances of God’s house. We commence meeting to-night three and a half miles West of Geneva, Adams Co., Ind. This is a new place; the true light never has been preached here, and we ask all God’s dear saints to pray for us and the people of the neighborhood that we may do the will of God, and that they may open their hearts to the truth. At the close of this meeting we will either go into Wells Co., or Randolph. A sister near Craigville, Ind. made a call in the Trumpet for meeting, which meeting we can hold after this one, and leave the Winchester meeting until later, since it is in town and will not be hindered by bad roads. Any one wishing to write us may address us as usual, at Burkett, Ind.

We remain your blood-washed coworkers in the gospel of the kingdom,

S. L. Speck and Co.

_____

New Washington, O., Feb. 15, 1892.

Dear Trumpet Readers: This morning finds me sweetly saved in Jesus. Praise the Lord! It is so pleasant to follow the dear Savior wherever he leads; it gives us a sweet peace to follow him in all his will. I am working in the vineyard of my blessed Lord and praising God that he is opening the way for me. I am trusting fully on him, believing that the time will soon come that I can be out in the field to help rescue poor perishing souls.

On the 11th of this month, dear Bro. Wm. H. Miller and companion come to our place in the fullness of the gospel of Christ: on the evening of the same day commenced meeting. The Lord was with us in mighty power. Bro Miller preached the awful truth in the name of Jesus, in the power of the Holy Ghost. Glory be to God for the straight word of God! It does our souls good. The meeting closed on Sunday evening with a grand ordinance meeting. Praise the Lord! The church at this place is settling down deeper into God and getting more established in the present truth. God bless all the dear saints, and the Trumpet family. God bless Bro. and Sister Miller. We go with them to Burbank. Pray for us.

Your brother and sister, saved and sanctified,

F. Rosenbery & wife.

_____

Visalia, Cal.

Dear Trumpet Readers: God bless you, one and all. I want to say to the glory of God I am sweetly saved from all sin and sanctified wholly. Praise the dear Lord! The blood of Jesus Christ now cleanseth me and I will say with the Psalmist David, “I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Amen.

“O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!” And taste and see that the Lord is good. O how blessed the man that putteth his trust in him! My soul is happy him. Hallelujah!

I am so glad to know the dear Lord has planted his vineyard here in this sinful place and surroundings, and to know that he waters it with the sweet dews of heaven, and in God’s own time we shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves. Praise the Lord! The Lord willing, we will hold our first meeting in the Cotter school- house, four or five miles north-east of town. Our little band of workers, three in One, praise the Lord! are all for Christ, and we must look after the lost sheep of the house of Israel. There are many of them away out on the mountains of sin and folly here in California. 2 Tim., third and fourth chapters, describe them. Sectarians are fast losing their hold upon the people. Praise the Lord! The evening light is planted here and it outshines all other lights. The Lord is our all-sufficiency, and he gives us the victory over all our foes. May the dear Lord continue to pour upon us all the oil of gladness, so filling our very being that we may run with patience the race that is set before us.

Yours, saved to the uttermost,

John J. Bentley.

_____

Cadott, Wis.

Dear Readers: I feel impressed to offer my testimony through the Trumpet, which is as follows: I had been a member in sectarian churches for over forty years, or up to about Nov. 15, 1891. But a few months previous to this I heard of the saints through a friend, and by reading the GOSPEL TRUMPET I soon became convinced that this people were walking in the light as God is in the light, and wholly following the Lord. But I was determined to know the whole matter. Accordingly I left Wis. for Mich. to visit the saints, and was permitted to enjoy many gospel meetings with them, during nearly three months, until I felt impressed to return home again. I traveled from Mich. to O. and Ind. for the purpose of getting thoroughly acquainted with them, and I am satisfied as never before. Glory to God! “Be ye holy, for I am holy,” saith the Lord, and I believe God will have a holy and tried people. But since I returned home I find some who seem to be about the best of sect members, fighting holiness. O brethren! Pray that God will send some of his faithful ministers here, for I feel there is much need of such in these last times of severe trials. I have taken Jesus for my physician for both soul and body, and I know he heals me and keeps me by his power from all the powers of the enemy. O praise the Lord! I am determined to preach holiness, sanctification, perfect love, full salvation from all sin, so long as God gives me strength to preach. I ask the saints to pray for me that God will give me power and wisdom to stand amidst this gain-saying generation. I am alone here as to any professional help, but I know the Lord is with me. Pray much for the success of the truth here.

Your brother, saved by the precious blood of Jesus,

G. Greeley.

Page 3

709, Maple St., Wichita. Kan., Feb. 4, 1892.

Dear Readers of the Trumpet: I believe it would be to the glory of God to write a few lines, as some of the saints have requested. Bro. Sigel Hunter and myself went to Hesston, Kan. on the 12th of December to hold a meeting in the name of the Lord, which had been arranged by Bro. and Sister Daugherty at the school-house at that place. But owing to an M. E. meeting in progress at their meeting house, we thought it Best to defer our work until the M. E. meeting closed. This being the place where I helped to organize a society while I was a Methodist, some thought we ought to go right in and help carry on the meeting. But knowing we could not work in and with Babylon, we went to the Johnson school-house 3 1/2 miles distant .Here our congregation was quite small, so we closed after a few meetings with victory in our souls, and trust the seed sown will yet bring forth fruit, as some seemed to gladly receive the truth. We took our leave of this place and then went to Bentley, a R. R. station on the Frisco line, some 18 miles north of Wichita. Here we had previously made an arrangement for meeting through Bro. Daniel B. Howe. May God bless him and family. We held meeting here for ten nights and over two Sabbaths. We found a great deal of opposition to the truth. We did not see such results as we expected, yet God wonderfully blessed us in dilivering his message to the people. On the last night we had a blessed ordinance meeting at Bro. Howe’s, residence. May God direct some of his firebrands to that place soon. After we closed there we returned home and rested some three days, then returned to Hesston on the 9th of Jan. On our arrival we were met by the M. E. preacher, H. E. Swan, who very cordially invited us to his house, and we were kindly received by his wife. He attended our first meeting and publicly endorsed us, and made us free to call on him and family. We spent several hours with him, and the Lord led us to talk to him very plainly as to the awful corruption of the so called churches. As he is a new beginner he may yet be able to get out of Babylon. May the Lord help him and give him a right understanding. The most of the time we were at this place the weather was very cold, and just after a long series of meetings by the M. E’s, our congregations were very small, yet not without some good results. We had a meeting at Bro. Frank Daugherty’s. Now if some of God’s holy ones could go to this place soon they might gather in a good harvest of souls. We are now at home, and will soon be ready to go wherever the Lord leads, to work in his vineyard to renew the battle for souls. May God bless all his saints and make the Gospel Trumpet a great power for good in all this wicked world. Amen.

Yours in Christ, saved by a second definite work of grace,

A. Markwell.

_____

Watkinsville, Miss.

Dear Saints, Greeting: I am praising God for complete victory over the world, flesh and devil, reigning in glory with Christ Jesus, who does the keeping as I do the obeying and trusting. I am so glad that I can report for myself that he is true to his word, and that these signs do follow them that believe, Mark 16; and that by the grace of God I can live right if others do, or do not. Let all the dear saints pray earnestly for me and His work in the South, that God may have a raising here, and raise his people up into the Hew Testament glory. Hallelujah! Amen.

Your brother in the glory,

J. Cole.

_____

Melrose, O., Feb. 20, 1892.

Dear Saints: Peace and joy be richly multiplied unto all the holy people. Amen. The meeting at Deshler began the 9th, inst., and closed the 15th, with a glorious victory. The Lord’s day especially was truly a glorious and high day in Zion. That meeting will never be forgotten by any because of the mighty and glorious presence of the Lord in the midst of his people. Conviction took hold on sinners. Two came to the Lord and were saved, others felt the need of being saved, and we expect soon to hear of their salvation. The ordinance meeting was indeed a glorious one. Fourteen participated, but all were not present to observe the ordinances. The Lord bless them all. Sister Mary J. Boston was ordained deaconess of the church of God there, which was truly witnessed to by the power of God. The Lord ever keep her pure and humble, and give her grace, wisdom and strength to do her duty and faithfully fulfill her office. Let the church ever assist her by prayers and support in her undertakings for the cause. We are now holding meeting here. The Lord is working; some have been set free in Jesus; others are under conviction. We stay here till the 28th, after that, hold a few meetings at different points in this vicinity. Let all the beloved ones in the Anointed pray much for us and our success in the work of the Master. Amen. Address us at Melrose, O.

Yours in the kingdom of Christ,

F. N. & Susie A. Jacobson.

_____

Cadott, Wis., Feb. 19, 1892.

Dear Saints, Greeting: With much holy love, Praise the Lord! I found my way home through the blessing of God. I have been teaching and talking considerable since returning home, but the people are loth to accept the true light. My wife is willing to join with me in vindicating the truth here, and I believe the Lord will raise up a holy people here. I should have stayed longer with the saints, but I felt the Lord led me to return home, and I think for the purpose of doing something preparatory or the spreading of his truth in this place. I met quite a number here who seem to be favorable towards the truth; but this place needs a great threshing, and I shall keep at work preaching and praying until reinforcements reach Cadott, if I am spared long enough. But I am free as the birds that fly; I am ready to go anywhere or do anything for the truth’s sake. I am praying that the Lord will send some one here to help preach the pure gospel. My daughter Lizzy who requested prayer for her recovery is much better, and when I feel it proper I will send in her testimony. Much love to all.

Your brother in Christ,

G. Greeley.

_____

Dimondale, Mich., Feb. 16, 1892.

Dear Brethren: I am led of God to write and let you know of his dealings with us. We are living about three miles southeast of Dimondale, in Eaton Co, Mich. Have meeting every Sunday at Dimondale, at Bro. Chaney Morrison’s house. The Lord is working and we expect to hold the fort in the name of Jesus. Have meeting at Sister Canady’s house every Sunday night; the young people attend and seem to be much interested. Wife and myself and Sister Rhoda Canady went to North Eagle on the 15th of Jan. and had meeting over Sunday. The Lord did wonderfully bless our souls, and the saints were greatly strengthened. One soul sanctified. I feel that the Lord wants us to go there soon and hold a longer meeting. Dear saints, all pray God to bless his word to the salvation of souls. The dear Lord is precious to our souls. He keeps us by his power. Oh how I do pray God to cut us loose from temporal bondage, that we may spread the gospel broadcast o’er the land. No place is so hard, no people so wicked, no privation so great, that I would be prevented from going in the name of Jesus at his command. I am saved by the blood and trust God for deliverance.

T. J. Cox.

1021, 15th St., San Diego, Cal., Feb. 11, 1892.

To All who are of Like Precious Faith: It has been some time since we have reported through the Trumpet of our whereabouts and the work in our charge. We are all well and happy for which we do praise God. Are yet very busy in the gospel service. The time passes away so rapidly, that it seems the days are not long enough. This blessed service grows sweeter continually. The Lord and his Truth are gaining a firm footing in San Diego, even though the power of darkness increases. There are occasional instances of conversion and sanctification which we know are recorded in heaven. The distribution of papers and tracts is telling upon the hearts of many. There are such excellent opportunities here for this, that there would be sufficient to keep one busy in this one department of the work. One of the tobacco tracts was thrown down a few weeks ago by an insulted tobacco slave, to whom it had been handed in an auction room. Another man picked it up and took it Home and read it. The Holy Spirit impressed the truth upon his heart, and he there decided by the help of God to quit the nasty practice by which he had been enslaved for forty years. While distributing some literature upon one of the ships in the harbor I met this man who recognized me by the tracts, and was glad to tell me what the Lord had done for him through that tract, and said he felt so happy that he was delivered. Praise the Lord! How unconscious we are of what an influence we have or what a little tract can do where the good seed falls upon the right soil. May the Lord strengthen the hands and hearts of all his saints, and qualify us more and more for effectual work in his holy service. The work seems to call us up the coast for the campaign. The church at Lompoc is waiting for the siege to begin, and as soon as practicable we expect to go there. Also expect to go to Visalia when the most convenient season comes for meetings there; and brethren, we are praying and believing for a camp-meeting sometime during the coming summer. Who will volunteer to come and help us? We cannot offer to pay your way, but we can offer plenty of work to do, and Paul’s experience at Corinth and Thessalonica. — 2 Cor. 11:9; 1 Thess. 1:9. Our love to all the dear ones.

Your brother and sister, separated unto the Gospel,

J. W. & J. Byers.

__________

TESTIMONIES.

Thy Testimonies are Wonderful.
Psa. 119:129.

To the Saints of the Most High: Remembering God’s loving kindness to us-ward we take this opportunity of adding our testimony. We have not had the privilege of meeting with the saints for some time, but we have the privilege in family devotion of praising him for his wonderful goodness to us. Not only do we entrust our souls to his keeping, but he is our family physician. We are so glad that he is willing to answer all of Paul’s prayer for us, “I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Yours, wholly sanctified,

R. F. and Mattie Rapp.

_____

Ewing, Pa.

Dear Saints: I feel led of God this morning to write my testimony. I love to tell what God has done for me. I know that just now the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses me from all sin; that I am fully saved in the Lord by a second work of grace. Praise God! The Lord is my protection. I am giving him all the praise and glory. Praise God for the path made plain; not by man or man’s wisdom, but by God’s word. Glory to his name! I feel that the Lord has laid a work on me in this place. I ask all the dear saints to pray for me.

Your brother, saved and sanctified,

I. T. Stowe.

Weston, O.

Dear Trumpet Readers: We feel like sending our testimonies once more, O praise God for this great salvation that saves us just now from the strife of tongues and all babylon confusion! Though we have wicked men and devils to-contend with, praise God! we find his grace sufficient. We are still earnestly contending for the faith once delivered to the saints.

Wm. & N. E. Long.

_____

Hooser, Kan.

Dear Saints of God: I feel like testifying to God’s healing power. I am so glad that I have found the great Physician that never fails, and who heals without money, and his demands are so reasonable. I was afflicted with- Itching Piles about four years; Catarrh about fifteen years; also Gravel fifteen years. But glory to God! when he sanctified my soul about nine months ago, he healed my body also, and I am free from all unholy lusts of the flesh, for which I give all praise to God. This winter I hurt my arm; it got worse for several days until it seemed I would have to quit working; but glory to Jesus! when I called on him in real earnest for the use of my arm, that I might labor for the comfort of my family and his glory, he heard and answered, giving me the use of my arm, although for some reason it is not entirely restored. I think it is to try my faith or to remind me of the goodness of God. I do praise him that he keeps me so I can labor, and helps me to overcome the world.

Your brother, all on the altar,

Simon Sinclair.

_____

Gardner, Ill.

Dear Saints: I am praising God for salvation that saves to the utmost, and keeps me sweetly with victory in my soul. It has been about a year since I was sanctified. I have passed through many hard trials, but the Lord delivers me out of them all, and the way is getting brighter. I was afflicted with Rheumatism and other complaints, but the Lord healed me, or which I give him all the glory. I am walking in the light that is shining on my pathway. Praise the Lord!

I remain your brother, justified and sanctified,

Abram J. Bixler.

_____

Onekama, Mich.

Dear Trumpet Readers: I can say this morning that I am saved by grace. Some over five years ago the Lord had mercy on me, and for Christ’s sake, forgave my sins. I am made to rejoice with the joy that is unspeakable and full of glory. I have been wonderfully blessed and kept by the power of God. My soul is praising the Lord. Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord.

O. Dyer.

_____

Greenwood, S. C.

Dear Trumpet Readers: God bless you all. I feel led of the Spirit to give my testimony as a witness for Christ. I do rejoice in his love every day. I do thank God that I have been saved from the Baptist heresy and tobacco. The people call me an infidel. I have been healed of weak lungs by the great Physician.

Your brother in the Lord,

J. M. Campbell.

__________

OBITUARIES.

Died, Walter W. McCurdy, son of W. J. and M. E. McCurdy. Born Apr. 1, 1874, at Warrensburg, Johnson Co., Mo. Died at Alpine, San Diego Co., Cal. Aged 17 years, 10 months and 8 days. Walter was the youngest of a large family, and from his infancy had a disposition of unusal kindness and amiability. Was always a dutiful child, bright in his studies at school, and possessed many rare qualities of character which were the source of much satisfaction to his family and friends, and promised to the world a life of unusual benefit. About one year ago he was taken with a severe cold which settled upon his lungs, and just as his life was beginning to bloom into noble manhood, that dread disease, consumption, began to show its blighting effects. One brother and one sister had been in Southern Cal. for some time and the father brought him to this country about three months ago with the hope that the change of climate might be of some benefit to his health. All was done for him that could have been done, but he kept gradually failing. A few weeks before his death he entered into the glorious experience of entire sanctification; was anointed for healing and for awhile was much benefited, but the Lord saw more glory in his death than in the lengthening of his life. As he realized his approach to the valley of the shadow of death he said he could not stay with his loved ones much longer. He said to them, “Do not weep.” He told his brother that he saw so many beautiful children and they were not weeping either. The heavenly forms were around him and had come to take him home. He motioned to his father to raise him up, who did so, and while in his arms the father sang, “O come angel band,” and the sweet spirit of Walter passed away to join the host of the redeemed beyond this vale of tears. The bereaved gave him up in perfect submission to Him who doeth all things well and had at the time of Walter’s consecration wholly dedicated him to the Lord to live or die, so that now they can truthfully say, “The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Among the bereft family is Sister Josie Adams, Caldwell, Kan. May they all so live in the perfect law of liberty, that every broken link here on earth may be restored in heaven. The remains were laid to rest in Mount Hope cemetery, of San Diego.

Burial services by

J. W. Byers.

_____

New Haven, Mich.

Ella Nay Maffit, wife of Bro. Wesley J. Maffit, of New Haven Centre, departed this life Jan. 18, 1892. The deceased was about 28 years old and eaves a husband and four children. She had been afflicted over two years, but bore her suffering with great patience and fortitude, and died trusting the Lord. She left a bright testimony behind.

Services by Brother Wm. Cooley and Bro. and Sister Lions.

_____

South Chicago, Ill.

Edna P. Mathews died Dec. 27, 1891; aged two years and five months. She is asleep in Jesus and has left to be with him. She is a niece of mine.

Hannah Myers.

Democracy, O.

_____

Sister Celestia Skinner died Jan. 31, 1892; aged 26 years, 4 months and 21 days. This sister attended the meeting at Shilo, yet did not accept Christ at that time. Soon after the meeting closed she was taken very sick with congestion of the lungs. She was told to make her peace with God, and she earnestly sought the Lord, and left a bright evidence that she had found him in the saving of her soul. She leaves a husband, three children and a number of relatives and friends to mourn her loss. May God comfort the bereaved ones, and save them.

S. P. Strang.

_____

Bro. Charles Carlson died Feb. 5, 1892; aged 63 years. He left bright evidence of his acceptance with Christ, and died in peace. He leaves a wife and three children; all saved but one. May God bless and comfort their hearts.

S. P. Strang.

_____

Near Beaver Dam, Ind., on Feb. 10, 1892, our dear Bro. and Sister S. B. Barr gave back to the Lord their little son Willie L., aged 11 months and 10 days. Funeral services were held at the Nichols Chapel, and then Willie was laid to rest in the yard adjoining the chapel. God bless our dear brother and sister in their sorrow and keep them faithful to the end, and then you shall meet him where parting will be no more.

W. B. Grover.

Page 4

HEALTH DEPARTMENT.

Care for Your Bodies.

We believe that much can be written to the glory of God and the happiness of his people on the subject of health, the care of our bodies, right hygienic laws, etc. It is a fact that many people live in much ignorance of the laws which govern their physical bodies, while others, knowing to a great extent how to value and care for their health, are negligent as to putting their knowledge into practice. May God, the author of “every good gift and every perfect gift,” help us all to take care of what he does give us. He is the author of our salvation. Praise his name! But he is none the less the giver of our health and every normal, happy, physical blessing. Indeed, a healthy state of the body contributes to the enjoyment of the soul’s salvation. God could never have intended otherwise than that created man should enjoy continual health and happiness. Is it necessary to establish the fact that pain, suffering and disease result from violated law? Surely we will all admit this to be true. All nature teaches it. God’s word teaches it. Had man never fallen into sin by disobedience, his lot would not be to eat of the ground in sorrow. See Gen. 3:17. What causes sorrow? Physical suffering causes a great deal of it; but such suffering can always be traced back to some violated principles governing our being. Man’s fall, by making him depraved and engulfing him into a miserable state, has made him liable to violate righteous laws and thus bring sorrow upon himself. Is an affliction some hereditary disease? Then it perhaps fulfills this scripture: “Visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.” — Ex. 34:7. But the same verse speaks of the Lord as “forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” Now, health of the body is connected with salvation of the soul from sin and its depraving tendency. When Jesus took upon himself men’s sins, he took upon himself men’s infirmities also. See Matt. 8:17. The word of God plainly teaches that his plan of salvation includes our restoration to health, happiness, peace, holiness, and comfort. Of course, this is on condition that, after being saved, we continue to serve him as our God, and do his will in all things. We cannot say that all sins against the laws of health are sufficient to keep us out of heaven; for many of them are committed in ignorance, and hence bring no feeling of guilt.

How many are thus living careless, neglecting their own bodies which are the temples of the Holy Ghost! Yet if their ignorance or neglect brings sickness upon them, God, is merciful to not only heal the one thus afflicted, but “if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” — James 5:15. And to all such the command from God is, “Go and sin no more,” and nature’s message to them is, “Go and sin no more.” Are we heeding this? Do we count afflictions as so many lessons? Remember that a sin against nature is likewise a sin against God; but yet it is, of course, only on condition of our possessing better knowledge, that we are brought into condemnation. Right here foolish persons will say, “Then it would be better to not have that knowledge in order that we may avoid being brought into condemnation.” But if such wish to live on in their ignorance, they may do so, but at the risk of their health and likely their souls. Such an idea is equivalent to that of leaving a man to “perish without law” in order to avoid his danger of violating the gospel which is designed and sent forth to save him. Such persons have a wrong idea of the the matter and do not know that the possession of health is possible, just as much as salvation is possible. Nature and God never conflict; for nature’s laws are a part of God’s laws, only they are not recorded in his word. While God’s message to us aims primarily at the salvation of the soul, yet he intends that we should also obey the laws of our physical being which we have the ability to learn and understand every day, with the intellect he gives to us.

Many of the saints of God, and also many who are not saints, yet professing, will often get afflicted through neglect of their bodies, and apply to the great Physician for their “healing, who, in mercy answers their prayers and forgives and heals them in accordance with their faith, expecting them to profit by the lesson. But how often do such go on the same as before, paying no attention to what nature and experience would almost force them to know. Perhaps a great many do not think of what we refer to. But how is it about your intemperance in eating, your starving the lungs for fresh air, your neglect of keeping the body clean, your wearing of corsets, etc.? How is it; are you thinking right when you presume that the health and shelter of your stock is more important than that of your own bodies? These things may seem but light in your eyes simply because a custom — of this crooked a perverse nation — has decreed it so. Dear saints when the soul is made to rejoice in its deliverance from the bondage of sin, old things should pass away; all things should become new; we should seek to rectify our manner of living and make it in accordance with God’s will as far as our knowledge will enable us to do, and then not stop, but continue to abound in whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are lovely, etc. Who is willing to do so?

A. L. Byers.

==========

Is Faith a Gift of God

Every person with a sound mind, has natural faculties by which he can exercise the proper amount of faith to meet the requirements of the word of God pertaining to salvation. And no one who will exercise the natural faculties given him, and will obey the Lord and keep his commandments, will be excluded from the blessed privileges of the promise of Jesus in Jno. 15:7. — “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”

In this promise there are two very important points to which we wish to call attention. One is, the promise is only to those who ABIDE IN CHRIST. The other is the condition of abiding in him, and that is, “IF YE KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS.” We have these God-given faculties, and it is our privilege to exercise and use them, neither does it require any special gift of faith in order to meet the conditions of the word of God, and enjoy his blessings. Then if we fail to receive the blessings for which we ask, who is to blame for it; who is the responsible party? Surely the lack is on our part if there is a failure, for God has promised to supply all our need according to his riches in glory. — Phil. 4:19. What can be the trouble? Either we are not abiding in Christ, or are not living up to our privileges.

There are many ways in which the answer to prayer may be withheld. Some pray not expecting an answer, and would be surprised if God would grant them their request. Others pray, with their minds centered on the things of this world, more than on the Lord, and are strangers to the blessedness of entering the closet alone with Jesus, in secret prayer, or in other words, closing the door of the heart, shutting out the world with all its cares, and there have sweet communion with our heavenly Father, who heareth and answereth prayer. Again there are those who are not right with God, or who refuse to walk in all the light they have, and God has not promised to hear and answer the prayers of such persons. Some people open their

hearts to God in earnest prayer, and before an answer comes, the door of their heart is closed so that the answer cannot be received even if it were to come. “O ye of little faith!” The trouble is not because you CANNOT do these things, but because you WILL NOT.

Paul in speaking of the spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 12:1-11), tells us that there is a gift of faith, and in verse 31, he tells us to “covet earnestly the best gifts.” These special gifts are bestowed upon such persons as will use them. The Lord freely gives them, but there is a great responsibility resting upon the one upon whom any of these special gifts have been bestowed, for as the members are set in the body, each must perform the work required, according as he hath received from the Father.

Perhaps a short Bible reading will be beneficial to some who wish to further investigate the subject.

Salvation comes through faith. — Eph. 2:8; Luke 7:50.

We are justified by faith. — Rom. 5:1; 3:28; Gal. 2:16; 3:24.

We are sanctified by faith. — Acts. 26:18.

We are healed by faith. — Luke 17:19; Matt. 9:29.

We standby faith. — Rom. 11:20; 1 Cor. 16:13; Gal. 5:1.

We walk by faith. — 2 Cor. 5:7.

We live by faith. — Gal. 2:20; Rom. 1:17; Hab. 2:4.

We are kept by faith. — 1 Peter 1:5.

Salvation work, means faith, from beginning to the end. Our breastplate and shield must be faith, in order to ward off the darts which the enemy of our souls may hurl at us. Faith is the key which unlocks the treasury of the Lord and brings down his blessings. It is the “substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things not seen.”

E. E. Byrum.

__________

Are you Seeking out the Lost

Dear saints of the living God, of the one spirit, in the one body, drinking at the same fountain, I send you greeting: I reported through the Trumpet that all was well with me at the beginning of this year. Since then I have had a strange experience, and promised God I would give it to you when I should be raised up. Within the past ten years God has taken great pains to give me an experience and teach me that he does not waste light or experience. For the past three months a fearful scourge — La- Grippe — has raged in our city, having no respect of persons. I resisted it in the fear of God until the second week of the new year. It came like the prick of a pin in my throat, and in a few hours the whole system seemed filled with a deadly poison. I was thirty-two hours without help, looking steadily to God until I had no mind to do so longer, or to know what I needed. It was then that kind friends took my body in hand to care for it with no power on my part to hinder them. Many were praying for me and word was wired through to Grand Junction for special prayers. I was not immediately raised up. But God worked in the same manner to remove the poison from my system that he did last summer, after receiving an anointed handkerchief from Bro. Byrum. There was a great hemorrhage until there was not blood enough to fill the pulse. Then my mind became clear, and while friends gave the body the tenderest and most skillful care, the soul went out in communion with God. During the ten days following, angelic influences hovered over me, and it seemed that the spirit would be borne away home in spite of the pleadings of friends not to leave them yet, and letters from others saying that I must not be sick, that my work was not done yet. As I lay passive in God’s hands, his will was revealed unto me and clear light was shed upon past and present experiences, and all was verified unto me in a special manner through the Holy Ghost. I still lay weak and helpless, and then for the first time could take hold of God for my healing. I was anointed and took God for my strength. I was soon out of bed, and a wonder to many. I know that a miracle has been wrought, and God’s whole revealed will must be done. I do not have strength given for work, but such tender influences, and such a great holy calm fills my entire being, that I feel as though I had only been loaned back to earth for a short time. God’s ways with me in the past have been unlike many others. I have been healed at different times, but it has always been a special work, giving me some new experience, and always for a revealed purpose. And in the part for me to live out God’s plainly revealed will as I received it through a close and perfect walk with him, and before him has brought great misunderstandings, and thus, necessarily, great persecutions, and more willfully so with many than from a lack of understanding. And now in my weakness, all the powers of darkness seem to have been arrayed against me. But I am on the rock, and strength comes as I stand before these powers, unmoved and unyielding. Glory! glory! glory! There are mighty works yet to be done by one and all; not only by those in the field, but by those whom God does not call into the field for lack of ability, and many other reasons. There must be more home workers, those that have the obedience that brings the faith that will not be denied. I speak only of what I received. The Millennial belief is gaining ground like wild fire. One of their most powerful and most dangerous works, entitled “Plan of the Ages” has now the two-hgndredth thousand in press. This doctrineis accepted by all Spiritualists. The two doctrines combined are rushing many into confusion and on to eternal destruction. In these the scriptures are being fulfilled rapidly. We must not be deceived. I speak as one that has been with God. There will be no Millennial age; neither will there be any redemption beyond the grave. The devil knows all of this, and also knows that if any, it is only souls that are at unrest because they are unsaved, that he uses to deceive many otherwise honest, Godfearing men and women. O, dear saints! ask God to help you to understand how great and awful is this terrible power of Satan over minds, and how terrible the sin of robbing the Holy Ghost of its power, and Christ of his glory. We must pray mightily for God to undeceive them before it is too late, and if God never moves upon any heart to give light on these things, do not withhold it.

I must plead with you all, dear saints, to walk so carefully before God, that your daily cares will not hinder you from bringing this subject before God often, and in prevailing prayers, or many, many precious souls will be lost without warning.

Another work must insisted upon. If I obey God as I told him that I would if he raised me up and gave me strength. It is a work which will be required of the “remnant” when Jesus comes. It is a persistent individual work. These are not the imaginations of a disordered brain as some selfish people would like to make out. They are a few of the results of a steady increasing, divine pressure. Fear after fear, and much fruit are being borne through others as results. God has increased pressure upon my soul above everything else within the past few weeks. There are not enough workers in the field spreading the evening light, and every saint should be doing some definite, personal work, and then God’s ministering servants could do more, and so many doors would not be shut against them. It is the same divine pressure upon my soul that there is upon Bro. Clayton’s soul, that makes him see the great need of a Floating Bethel. O I pray you have patience with me while I plead with you, as I shall wish that I had when it will be too late if I do not do my duty now. In that awful day many will turn to us and say: “Why did you not make us know these things?” O bear this thought upon your heart continually! It will prompt you to action.

No matter how much each one may be doing with their means in supporting the cause of Christ there is still a need, and room for personal work. Each one spends time enough in idle words over many things, to do such a work with words fitly spoken. Christ would not have condemned the fig-tree that looked so flourishing if there had been one fig upon it. O dear saints, have a fear, have a care! O pray the burden of lost souls upon yourselves, and God will show each one some work near at hand. It may seem hopeless and unpromising, and unpleasant, but if self is all out of the way and there is patient, Christ- like consideration, and persistent faith and works, God will give you fruits which may go forth bearing precious seed where you cannot go.

A few years ago, some after my light came upon me God sent a poor sick boy to my arms to be nurse d through a painful sickness. I knew not why it was so, but for Jesus’ sake I did the work given me. It was then that fearful persecutions began. I laid the child upon God’s altar to be raised up and to live to give the light that was then so strangely upon me. It has been a great trial of faith and works, but a little over one year ago, I heard of the evening light, and now the boy is one of the Trumpet family, led there of God and can give you his testimony at any time. I am also having a present experience with one, who one year ago was one of the most hopeless cases in every way. I want you all to pray much for this man that he may be led very soon out among the children of God. He has a great experience in serving the devil, and feels that he must live and work for God or be lost, and he is a single man and nothing to hold him. He feels that he will not be sanctified until he gets among the saints and goes to work. Only let it be known that your kitchen is a place where any one can come and talk for Jesus while you work, and God will give you souls. We must have more than a praising interest in each other’s spiritual welfare, and also in each other’s temporal matters. Such a work will necessarily bring its persecutions, because it is so little understood and practiced. These are the days when men, and especially professing Christians bite and devour one another according to scripture. O let us fear of being devoured of one another.

I am so glad for what Bro. Shroyer wrote in Trumpet, Feb. 4. Let others give us more on the same line to encourage home workers. I have been trying “the spirits” for many years purposely, and in view of a past and present experience, I must say that it is the evening light that is now shining, and God is gathering the remnant. It must be holy in spirit and mighty in words and in deeds. God has also through my sickness made my little work, “Out of the Depths,” seem to me of the greatest importance in his sight and presses me to ask all that have not had one to send for one, that you may know of his way with me, and the beginning of his works through me beforeletting me know of the people who are out in the evening light. Pray much for me through the coming weeks, for if I live it will be to pass through great trials of faith and. patience. I want God’s will, not mine to be done.

Your sister, sanctified and ready and waiting to be revealed in the near coming of our blessed Jesus,

Mrs. Melissa Lane.

Binghamton, N. Y.