6 December 1894, Volume 14, Number 47.
Sowing and Reaping.
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The husbandman goes to his field afar,
While the breath of winter is in the air;
There are stones to gather and weeds to burn,
There are fences and ditches that need his care.
As he sets the point of the patient plow,
And turns the farrows, both deep and wide,
He knows that he works together with God.
In whose flat both seed-time and harvest abide.
A sower goes forth in the field to sow,
And scatters the seed in the mellowed sod;
Faith sees the blade, the car, the sheaf,
And leaves it there in the dark with God.
Lo! the fields wave green in the summer sun;
In the harvest time there is golden grain;
And the reaper’s faces are good to see,
As they number the sheaves on the loaded wain.
Not alone to the reaper we give the meed
For the ripened sheaves of the harvest yield;
We remember the hands that held the plow,
And scattered the seed in the bare brown field.
My brothers, who toil in the fields of God,
Press the plowshare deep, turn the furrow wide,
Cast the precious seed with a lavish hand,
Weighted with tears, that it may abide.
It shall quicken to life in the righteous light,
Gather strength from the former and latter rain.
Go, then, thy way, having faith in God;
Some one shall gather there golden grain;
And when the Lord of harvest comes,
With crowns for the brows of the sons of men,
The toilers who plow and scatter the seed
Shall not fall of a starry diadem.
Selected.
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EZEKIEL, TENTH CHAPTER.
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THEN I looked, and, behold, in the firmament that was above the head of the cherubims there appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone, as the appearance of the likeness of a throne. Ver 1. Firmament here signifies the broad expansion of God’s eternal truth and holiness. In which God’s elect or those who are wise unto salvation are fixed, and shine as the stars of heaven; reflecting the light of the sun of righteousness over this dark world of sin. Dan. 12:3; Phil. 2:15. Cherub implies the fullness of knowledge. By sapphires, the Hebrew denotes that on which something is engraved, and according to some, the tables of the law were made of it. The interpretation is this: From Zion shall go forth the law, and in our hearts the law of Christ is engraven; upon this throne of truth we reign, in this life by one Jesus Christ. Rom. 5:17. Shining as the stars forever and ever, and established upon the immutable word of Christ we rejoice in the fulness of the knowledge and power of our God. “And he spake unto the man clothed with linen, and said. Go in between the wheels, even under the cherub, and fill thine hands with coals of fire from between the cherubims, and scatter them over the city. And he went in in my sight.” The linen is the righteousness of the saints. Rev. 19:8. The wheels are the means by which the ark of God’s truth is conveyed over the earth. And only the pure or sanctified are used as such means. We read, Sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called. Jude 1. I have commanded my sanctified ones. Isa. 13:3. The fire is the word. Jer. 23:26. Rev. 8:5. And the city is the church. Heb. 12:22, 23. Thus we learn, that in the “holiest of all,” at the ark of the covenant, overshadowed by the cherubims, or the knowledge of the fullness of God’s power, is where the wheels, or God’s “sanctified ones” are. Here also remains the fire of the Holy Ghost, received through the Word, the which is only received by those who are purged by the all-cleansing fire and robed in righteousness. Here is the cause of so many false doctrines, would-be teachers rejecting a part of the word, could not enter into the rest of perfect purity, and receive the fire of God’s truth. Hence they manufacture a strange fire, a false illumination, and present it as the genuine fire of God; thus deceiving the nations; But the true ministers of Christ robed in truth, obey the commands, and through the scattering of ire in the church of the living God, all is burned up except the genuine, or those who are tried as gold is tried.
“Now the cherubims stood on the right side of the house, when the man went in; and the cloud filled the inner court.” Ver. 3. The “inner court” is the “holiest of all,” — Heb. 9:3. representing the sanctified, who, when the pure word is given them, are filled with joy and the cloud of God’s glory.
“Then the glory of the Lord went up from the cherub, and stood over the threshhold of the house; and the louse was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the Lord’s glory. And the sound of the cherubim’s wings was heard, even to the outer court, as the voice of the Almighty God when he speaketh.” Ver’s 4, 5.
The house is the church. 1 Tim. 3:15. The threshhold is the entrance of the same. When a sanctified soul is filled with God’s glory, it does not settle into some quiet corner, with the glory pent up within the heart, to gratify self, but we see it fly to the threshhold and pleadfor sinners to enter this blessed rest. When we move in the order of God, not only the inner court” or sanctified ones are filled with glory, but the “court,” which seems to mean the holy or justified ones are put in a state of rejoicing, and are enabled to have boldness to enter the holiest by the blood of Jesus. Heb. 10:19. Yea, and more than this, the glorious sound of the everlasting gospel is heard, even to the “outer court” as the voice of the Almighty God. The truth of God awakens the sinner and convicts him of the judgment to come, brings him to repentance, and life eternal.
And when I looked behold the four wheels by the cherubims, one wheel by one cherub, and another wheel by another cherub, and the appearance of the wheels was as the colour of a beryl stone, verse 9.
Every wheel is placed in its respective place, and they all run in harmony without any discord. Read 1 Cor. 12:4-13; 18:25-28; Eph. 4:11-14. One wheel never tries to take the place of another. “And as for their appearances, they four had one likeness, as if a wheel had been in the midst of a wheel.” Verse 10. Praise the Lord! God’s saints all have one likeness; and that is the image of Christ. 2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 4:24. A wheel in the midst of a wheel. Here the Son of God prayed for this, “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me and I in thee, that they may be one in us. That they may be one, even as we are one.” John 17:21, 22. When they went, they went upon their four sides. Though we are one, and all move together, yet we turn upon our own side, or fill the individual sphere in which God has placed us. “They turned not as they went, but to the place whither the head looked they followed it;” Jesus is our head. Eph. 1:22, 23, Col. 1:18; Eph. 4:15. And whither he goes we follow. 1 Pet. 2:21, 22; 1 Jno. 2:6. We turn neither to the right nor to the left. Prov. 14:27. Make no crooked paths, but walk in the straight paths made for our feet. Heb. 12:13. “And the wheels were full of eyes round about.” Praise the Lord! we can look in every direction, watch and pray, and spy out the devices of Satan, and escape his snares of darkness, for we are full of eyes. Hallelujah! “As for the wheels, [plural] it was cried unto them in my hearing, O wheel” [singular]. “There are many members, yet but one body. Rom. 12:4, 5. There are many individual branches, yet we are all grafted into the one vine. Jno. 15:4 7. The root [Christ] being holy, so are the branches. Rom. 11:17. Christ is the great wheel, we the little wheels are hid with Christ in God. Col. 3:3. Christ the great moving power, we in him, moving as he our head moves, are all one as he and the Father are one. O praise the Lord, all ye his saints!
“And every one, had four faces;” or power to look in every direction, to all spirits proceeding from every way of error, prove all things, and to discern between good and evil. “The first face was the face of a cherub, denoting purity, wisdom and power, by and through the fullness of God’s knowledge. The second face was the face of a man, representing the policy, sagacity, and watchfulness of the pure in heart; and the third the face of a lion, implies the bold firm, strong and courageous spirit of the sanctified. The fourth the face of an eagle, signifying the strong wings of faith by which the holy ones of God soar above the sinful elements of this world in the presence of Christ, together in the heavenly places. And when the cherubims went, the wheels went by them; or when Christ moves forth in his power, we move with him. And when the cherubims lifted up their wings to mount up from the earth, the same wheels also turned not from beside them. When they stood, these stood; and when they were lifted up, these lifted up themselves also. Step by step the Lord has raised us up from sectish night; and being free in Jesus, as he increases his power, and glory, and raises the standard of piety higher above the darkness of this world, we must also raise with the standard and power of God; yea, we increase with the increase of God. Col. 2:19. The Lord is cutting this work short in righteousness. Rom. 9:28. And unless we hasten on, even run, and not get weary, we shall be left behind, and be as the foolish virgins, who failed to get a supply of oil in time to enter into the feast. For the spirit of the living creature was in them. The spirit of the living God is in us. O praise his name, that prompts us to move as our head, Christ moves.
Then the glory of the Lord departed from off the threshold of the house, and stood over the cherubims.” Harken, all ye saints, when we take our stand at the entrance that leads to life and joy, (Read Eze. 21:19.) warning sinners with words from the mouth of God; and when all who will, have accepted and entered the Lord’s house, the voice of the Almighty having been heard in the “outer court,” its mission accomplished, your work done, and the sweet approving smile of Jesus resting upon you, you feel clear, your duty done, the glory of God returns from the outer court to the cherubims, which are in the inner court, or the glory of God fills the sanctified soul, with peace and rest after the battle is fought and the victory won. The burden for certain souls is gone and you feasting upon the glories following an obedient soul, heart light, conscience free, and satisfied with the Lord’s dealings. How true, this is to every one of Gods servants, who are spending their time leading sinners to the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world.
Of the wheels, it is said, they “every one stood at the door of the east gate of the Lord’s house.” The “east gate” is that one that opens toward the rising of the sun. Thus we learn that God’s elect in the Lord’s house or the church of the living God, stand in a position where they can continually receive every ray of light that comes from Jesus Christ, the sun of righteousness. They receive the glorious light of God, and reflect the same into this world of darkness. “They went every one straight forward.” We walk in Jesus, Col. 2:6, he being the way, Jno. 14:6. We turn not from following the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. Rev. 14:4. Neither do we break our ranks, nor one thrust another. Joel 2:7, 8. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and laud his name, all ye, his saints. Let your appearance and work be as a wheel in the middle of a wheel, or you in Christ; only let him be seen in all your words and actions. Amen. Read also Eze. 1:4-28.
W. A. Haynes.
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BRING US THE PURE GOSPEL.
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Dear Saints: I feel led of the Lord this evening to write to you. I feel assured that we are both worshiping the same God in the same manner; namely, in the beauty of holiness. Wife and I were both Catholics until eight years ago when God let his holy light shine into our benighted hearts, and let us see ourselves as he saw us, and we immediately quit serving a church and commenced serving God. And for a year or more we lived in perfect peace with God and had his wonderful anointing upon our souls. But we were at last persuaded to join the Free Methodist sect, and we have seen more or less of the domineering spirit of man in that sect ever since. So we both felt led to go into the Salvation Army, and see if we could not lead some of them into the experience of holiness. But while some received the light gladly and obtained the experience, the leaders utterly rebelled. So we feel that we have done our duty by them; and so last Monday night in our private meeting for officers I handed in my papers as an officer and member and told them I was going to step out of all manmade churches into my former liberty in Christ. And to night my soul is rejoicing in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made me free. Wife and I have been reading the GOSPEL TRUMPET more or less for the past year which has been furnished us by a dear old saint of God who lives here; and we are well pleased with its doctrine, because it teaches just what we have been advocating; that if we are obliged to keep any one of the ordinances set forth in God’s word we are obliged to keep them all.
My soul longs to hear some one preach and teach that doctrine right here in Peoria, and there never was a better time than right now, and I feel sure that God has led me to write to you on this subject, and I firmly believe that there could be a rich harvest of souls gathered here in this city. I feel deeply interested in getting the truth before the people here as soon as possible. I am like the majority of God’s little ones, without means, but it seems to me that the Lord can and will open the way to get his true gospel preached here. God bless you and your labors. Amen. Your brother in Christ,
B. S. Boyles,
No. 1617 Main St., Peoria, Ill.
ANSWER TO QUESTIONS.
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Can the dead see back here?
Ans. The rich man said, “I have five brethren in my father’s house.” Luke 16:28. Whether they can see from their place into this world we know not; but it is certain they still recollect those they left here on earth.
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In Joel 3:21, “I “will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed.” Does that have reference to the cleansing of our literal blood that we have no sickness? Yours in the love of Jesus,
W. J. Smith.
Ans. If a person is afflicted with impure blood, there is no reason why he cannot use that promise with all others on healing, as a ground of faith for his deliverance. Put even though the promise covers literal healing, it is only fulfilled where faith grasps it. And would by no means constitute all the sanctified free from disease without those conditions are met. The promise however seems to refer more specially to a moral cleansing. The removal of all evil and perverted appetites, etc. The cleansing of the poison of tobacco, liquor, coffee and tea from the system, and the removal of the appetites for all such poisons. The text, if correctly rendered in our Common Version, is a clear declaration of our entire cleansing in the blood of Christ. But Young’s translation renders it as follows: “I have declared their blood innocent.” “I will avenge their blood,” reads the Jewish translation. The German is about the same. But to our mind the Common is most consistent with the context, and is most likely correct.
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Is it possible for children to be so devoutly raised as to come into accountability without sinning, and be ready to seek entire sanctification?
Ans. If such a thing were possible, it is evident God in his Word overlooked the possibility. God commands all men to repent, and “except a man become converted and become as a little child he shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” It is positively asserted that “all have sinned.” These and all ether scriptures leave no exception. The word of God is therefore squarely against such a notion. Therefore, it is a false teaching.
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In seeking for the gifts should one seek at the public altar as when consecrating for salvation? Or should it only be between the soul and God?
Ans. There are not the same reasons for a public consecration in quest for the gifts as there are in seeking salvation. There is not a change of masters as in conversion, nor a mortification of self as in entire sanctification, hence, private efforts alone with God are in most cases satisfactory. However if a teacher is present it is often a help to consecrate at the public altar. Whether public or private, the faith that grasps any gift must be just as definite and positive as that which appropriates salvation. And that faith should find occasional expression in testimony.
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Allegan, Mich., Nov. 27, 1894.
Dear Trumpet: I have been sick ever since the fourth of July. I am a widow with three children. I was not able to pay my Dr. bill and support us, so I had to leave my children with friends and come here to the poor house to be cared for. I sprained my right side by washing and ironing which has brought a weakness on me. I am much better than I was, but I wish you would be so kind as to pray for the healing of my body. I was a Methodist, but have left them and am to day leaning on Jesus and his holy promises, one that never leaves nor forsakes us. Praise his holy name for that! I believe my prayers have done more good than the medicine. My little boy of nine years had a run of fever this summer. The Dr. could not stop it. He asked me to pray for him. I prayed and the little boy prayed and he was healed, and the next day was up and around the house. Thank God for ever! Allow me to call myself your sister in Christ,
Mrs. Maggie Sweetland.
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THE GOSPEL TRUMPET.
A WEEKLY HOLINESS JOURNAL.
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D. S. WARNER — Editor. E. E. BYRUM — Office Editor. E. E. BYRUM & S. MICHELS — Publishers.
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Subscription $1-00 a year in advance.
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DEFINITE, RADICAL, and ANTI SECTARIAN, sent forth in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, for the publication of full Salvation, and Divine Healing of the Body, the Unity of all true Christians in “the faith once delivered to the saints.”
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THE SHINING LIGHT.
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An interesting paper for children. Illustrated. It should be in every family where there are children. Only twenty- five cents a year. Address
THE SHINING LIGHT,
Grand Junction, Mich.
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TRACTS.
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All the following tracts except the tract — “What is the Soul?” can be had in German.
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Must We Sin? A conversation, giving Bible proofs that we must live free from sin. 48 pages. Per dozen, 15 cts.
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The Church of Cod. A tract containing 32 pages, proving what is the Church and what is not the Church of God. Price 5 cents.
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Questions and Answers on the Church. A tract containing four letters with many questions concerning the church, and showing the difference between the true church and sectism. Price, 10 cents per dozen.
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The Great Tobacco Sin. This is a very thorough tract on the subject, by D. S. Warner treating it from a Bible standpoint. 32 pages. Price 10 cts. per dozen.
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What is the Soul? By D. S. Warner. Or 100 scriptures proving that man possesses a spiritual and immortal element called the Soul, the Spirit, and the Inner Man, which goes to God at the death of the body. The same also proved by the early Church History. Price single copy 10 cents.
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“No-Sectism.” A tract bearing the above title, written by A. Sims, has been reviewed by D S. Warner, showing the difference between sectism and the Church of the Living God. It exposes the false theories set forth by Sims. 52 pages. 15 cts. per dozen.
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The Secret Vice. This is a sixteen page tract — Illustrated, taken from “The Boy’s Companion,” and contains some plain talk to boys, giving them a timely warning against the evils of self abuse 5 cts, per doz.
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Visible Church Organization, Is it Right? This is the title of a tract reviewed by Thos. Carter, giving some points of sectarian discipline, compared by the word of God, also showing the difference between a sect and the true church. 48 pages. 15 cts. per doz.
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Babylon, and What it Includes. By W. A. Haynes. 79 pages. 20cts. per doz. This tract very clearly sets forth the true meaning of Babylon, both literal and spiritual. Showing by the Word of God just what classes of people it includes, throwing light on many important points of prophecy.
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Sanctification. By J. W. Byers. 40 pages. 10 c. per doz. This contains much information for those seeking after holiness and a closer communion with God. It gives God’s part, and man’s part concerning consecration, and how to get sanctified, — how we may know that we are sanctified, — how to keep sanctified, — and many objections answered.
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BOOKS.
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MASONIC SALVATION. By Fred Husted. This little volume treats the subject of Free Masonry from a Bible standpoint. The writer having been a Master Mason, boldly brings the hidden and mysterious things before the public in a clear light. Price, paper cover 15 cts. Cloth 35 cts.
DIVINE HEALING OF SOUL AND BODY. By E. E. Byrum. Part I teaches the way of salvation, and how to set saved. Part II gives Bible teaching on the healing of the body. Part III consists of testimonies from those who have been healed in these last days. This is book can also bo bad in German 248 pages. Paper cover, 25 cts.
PRIESTS OF ROMANISM; OR, SUBSTITUTION FOR MARRIAGE. By G. B. Collins. 15 cts. $1.44 per doz. A Compilation showing the evils of Priestcraft as it has come down to us from Pagan Rome, containing the full text of the oaths taken by Cardinals. Bishops, and priests: the awful oath of the Jesuits and Roman Catholic canons.
HOLINESS BIBLE SUBJECTS. By H. C. Wickersham. Second edition. This is a very valuable book of 400 pages and arrangement of Scriptures on one hundred subjects, giving a number of Bible quotations on each subject, making it very convenient for the Bible student. It also contains over 50 pages of concordance, tables, Bible helps, etc. Cloth, marbled edges, $1.00.
BIBLICAL TRACE OF THE CHURCH. By W. G. Schell. Tracing the church in prophecy from her birth to the end of time. Containing a brief history of more than 400 Protestant denominations. The author aims to show the difference between the true church and sectism, giving historical and scriptural proofs. Paper cover, 36 cts. Cloth, 75 cts. Address the Author at Anlo, Ohio, or this office.
THE SABBATH, OR WHICH DAY TO KEEP. By D. S. Warner. Nearly 200 pages. Paper cover 10 cts. $1.00 per doz. Cloth. 30 cts. It is a very through investigation of the whole subject of the law, and its obligations, the Seventh day Sabbath, its object and terminus at the cross. The first day proved by prophecy, shadows, history and the New Testament to be the Lord’s Day and Sabbath of the Christian Dispensation.
THE BOYS COMPANION. By E. E. Byrum. This is a neat little volume with interesting chapters to the boys, concerning the Secret Vice and other had habits and their effects. Every boy needs advice and warning in time, and too often parents fail to give the needed advice until too late. The hook is illustrated with suitable pictures which are aimed to leave a vivid impression upon the young minds and turn them from the downward road to a pure life. It also contains testimonies and experiences from those who are inmates of the states prison. Boys of every age should hove one of these books to read. Price, paper cover 15 cts. Cloth binding 25 cts.
ECHOES FROM GLORY. By B. E. Warren and D. S. Warner. A second and thorough corrected edition of this new song book has just been issued. Containing 232 beautiful spiritual songs, of which the largest portion are new and fresh inspirations from heaven, both words and music. Many beautiful and touching invitation and exhortation hymns for revival meetings. It sings nearly all the doctrine of the Bible; especially the glorious themes of present truth. With primary instruction in music. Simple and concise — A practical self- instructor for beginners in vocal music. Neatly bound in pasteboard, price reduced to 40 cts. Per dozen $4.00. all prepaid
LIST OF MONEY LETTERS NOT OTHERWISE RECEIPTED
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Mary L. Taylor, Mary B. Moore, W. S. Bennett, Dan Murphey, Jno. H. Morion, Joseph Cobler, Ida B. Worden. Mrs. N. A Hunt. Louisa C. Adams, Henry Thornton, Charlie Marsh, D. D. Miller, T. M. Raker, Laura A. Randolph, Mrs. C. Greiner, E. R. Baber, Wm. H. Miller, Almira Davis.
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A writer in the DIVINE LIFE says, “The imperative demand of the schools — the sect colleges — is that they turn out our young men, rooted and grounded in Methodism.”
Here is the drift of all heresies. A sect formed or joined, that thing always comes to the front, as the all- absorbing interest, leaving Christ, and the salvation of souls out of sight The sect becomes the idol-god of the heart, and the soul is deceived and blinded under the false idea that the flame of sect zeal is the love of Christ, and devotion to the sect is the worship of God. “The imperative demand,” the all-important thing is that the young preachers be rooted and grounded in Methodism.” What a change since the days of the apostles They got along without Methodism; they had never heard of such a thing; they abhorred all isms. With them the imperative demand was that men should be rooted and grounded in the love of God, and have their “nearts established unblameable in holiness,” and that they should abide in the truth, as well as be filled with the Spirit of God. The difference arises from the wide distinction of objects contemplated by the two classes of preachers. God’s ministers are commissioned to promote godliness on earth; hence it was, and still is, absolutely needful that they be full of God and his salvation. Methodist preachers are drilled and licensed to propagate Methodism, hence they must be rooted and grounded in Methodism, and full of her wine.
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Echoes From Glory.
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A pocket edition containing all the songs of the “ECHOES FROM GLORY,” with the words only, is now being issued at this office, which we hope to have ready by the first of January or sooner. Neatly bound in pasteboard cover, 10 cents each. $1.00 a dozen. This will place the book within the reach of all, and at a price that congregations can be supplied to help sing the songs of Zion.
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The German Trumpet.
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We are very thankful to God for his blessings upon this work. Many of his children are becoming interested in the spread of the gospel to the Germans. A number of subscriptions have already been received, and almost enough means to publish the first issue of the paper, which will soon be ready, the Lord willing. This paper will not contain the same articles that the English Trumpet contains, only as some may be occasionly inserted the same. Let all who have German friends send in their names and address, plainly written, so they will receive a sample copy Also send in as many subscriptions as possible to help along the work If you receive a blank name list dr not fail to fill it out at once with names and addresses of German people whom you think would like to read a copy of the paper, and do not forget to pray earnestly for the blessings of God upon this work.
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Requests for Prayer.
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Dear Brethren: I am saved and trusting in the Lord, but my body is badly afflicted. Would like to have the saints pray for the healing of my body, Sunday Dec. 8.
John Kennedy.
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On the third Sunday in Dec., let all the saints pray for Sister Hodge of Carroll Co., Miss. She has been afflicted for thirteen years.
J. H. Watkins.
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Pray that my wife may be saved and I may be kept true to God. The Lord has saved me and keeps me from committing sin. I am glad that I ever heard holiness preached and gave myself to God. Your brother,
H. M. Brazeale.
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Dear Saints: I ask an interest in all your prayers for my daughter-in-law Amy F. Rutledge, who is almost blind and has two little children to care for. Your brother in gospel love,
Isaac H. Rutledge.
I ask you all to pray that I may be healed of catarrh and other afflictions; also pray that my brother may be saved and healed. He is very sick.
Polly Morris.
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I desire the prayers of the saints of God that I may be restored to health again.
Yours in Christ,
Harry Overhiser,
Hopkins, Mich.
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I ask you who have faith in God to pray for my healing Dec. 9. I have an ulcerated limb, and believe he will heal me. Pray for the increase of my faith, also for my husband that his heart may be inclined to God. Your sister,
Sarah Jones,
Conroe, Texas
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I have been suffering with my back for two years. Pray for me that I may be healed. Also pray for my little boy. He is suffering with sore mouth. Your brother,
Robert Gross,
Benton, Mo.
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I desire you all to pray that I may be healed of dyspepsia, and liver complaint. I also was hurt about two months ago, and had my shoulder dislocated, which is not well yet. Your sister trusting in Jesus,
Mary Bisher,
Lesters Ford, Ind.
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Dear Saints of God: I ask your united prayers for the healing of my ears. I am almost deaf; and pray for my little grand-daughter that her speech may be restored. Your sister in Christ,
E. Rosenberry.
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Dear Saints: I desire that you pray earnestly for me that I may be cleansed from all sin, and be truly accepted of the Lord. I try to live right, yet I do not feel altogether satisfied. I do want to be prepared for heaven. Pray earnestly for me. I believe the prayers of a righteous man availeth much. Yours in him,
M. E. Williams,
Hume, Ill.
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Calls for Meeting.
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We are in need of some one to come here and preach the gospel in its purity. May God send some of his holy ministers. Your sister,
Nettie Toliver.
Morehead, Ky.
If any of the brethren in the ministry pass through this part of the country, we would like for them to stop and hold meeting, as the people are anxious to hear the truth preached.
Winnie Cope,
St. Clair, Tenn.
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We would be glad if some of God’s ministers would come here and hold meetings, there are some here who are almost starving for spiritual food.
Henrietta Ervitt,
Hartford, Ind.
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We would like to have some one come to preach whom the Lord will send, who is filled with the Holy Ghost and fire from on high, for the way is open and people seem to be hungry for the truth and will come for miles to hear a good sermon. Yours in Christ,
Peter Peterson,
Bloomington, Nebr.
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ANOTHER WAIL OF BABYLON.
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TO THE CHURCH OF METHODISTS, WRITE:
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The great trouble with us to day is, that the rescue of imperiled souls is our last and least consideration. Many of our congregations are conducted on the basis of social clubs. They are made centers of social influence. Membership is sought in order to advance one’s prospects in society, business or politics. Preachers are called who know how to
“Smooth down the rugged text to ears polite,
And snugly keep damnation out of sight.”
The Sunday services are made the occasion of displaying the elegancies of apparel in the latest fashions. Even the little ones are tricked out as though they were the acolytes of pride. If the “Rules” are read, it is to comply with the letter of a law whose spirit has long since fled. Their class books are filled with names of unconverted men and women. Official members may be found in box, dress- circle, and parquet of opera and theater. Communicants take in the races, and give and attend card-parties and dances. The distinction between inside and outside is so obscure that men smile when asked to unite with the church, and sometimes tell us that they find the best men outside.
When we go to the masses, it is too often with such ostentatious condescension that self-respect drives them from us.
And yet we have so spread out, under the influence of the rich and ungodly, that they are a necessity to us. The enforcement of the unmistakable letter of the discipline for a single year would cut our membership in half, bankrupt our missionary society, close our fashionable churches paralyze our connectional interests, and leave our pastors and bishops unpaid and in distress. But the fact remains, that one of two things must happen; the discipline must purge the church, or God’s Holy Spirit will seek other organized agencies. The ax is laid at the root of the tree. The call is to repentance. God’s work must be done. If we are in the way, he will remove us. Our spirit needs to be
“The arms of love that compass me,
Would all mankind embrace.”
And our aim, to
“Tell to sinners round
What a dear Savior we have found;
To point to his redeeming blood,
And cry, Behold the way to God!”
Let each reader begin with himself, and rest not until he realizes that the kingdom is set up within him. We have need to be in greater haste to flee for refuge than had the poor firemen in Chicago. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. Western Christian Advocate, July 19, 1893.
Copied by the Michigan Christian Advocate, Aug. 12, 1893.
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“Christian Healing.”
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Among the many frauds that are being manifested in these days, on the line of healing claiming to be done in the name of Christ is a man in Indiana by the name of Matthews, who sends out to afflicted ones wherever he can obtain their address a card headed “Christian Healing.” The card contains a number of quotations from the Bible on the subject of divine healing, which are very appropriate. This card is accompanied with the following letter:
——, Ind.
Dear ——: I take this liberty of sending you my card, and you will understand the import of it. Hoping to hear from you at an early date, giving age, nature of disease, etc. Charges very low, hoping to do you good. I am yours in Christ. Amen.
A. D. Matthews.
The above letter savors more of the so called “Christian Science,” than it does the Christ of the Bible. It is a very easy matter to take the word of God and locate such men, or in other words find out what God thinks of them and where his word places them. We have before us some of the leading “Christian Science” journals, in which some of their members advertise themselves on this wise: “Write to me, I can heal you,” “Trust your case in my hands and you will be a changed person,” terms $2.00 a week, etc.
Now, let us see what Jesus says about those whom he gives the gifts of healing. In Matthew 10:8, he says “Heal the sick; * * * freely ye have received, freely give.” Peter would not be slow to apply to these so-called faith-healers and sorcerers, the same language he did to Simon the sorcerer, when he said, “Thy money perish with thee, * * * for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee, for I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and in the bond of iniquity.” Acts 8:21.
When you find people trying to make merchandise out of the gifts of the Spirit, you may safely conclude at once that it is the wrong kind of a spirit, and one of which you need to beware. Christ would say that such ones are “of their father, the devil.”
This may seem like strong language, but such is the case. “Christain Science ” — so-called — is only one of the many phases of spiritualism; and spiritualism is of the devil from beginning to end, and those who tamper with such lay themselves liable to become bound by the devil and lose their soul. God is able to deliver such as are already thus bound, but knowing the danger, and then wilfully place yourself in the hands of such spirits, places your soul in the binding chains of Satan. It is true that if the devil has the power to afflict our bodies, he also has the power through these Christian Science and spiritualistic mediums to withdraw his afflicting hand. Then beware! Try the spirits by the word.
E. E. Byrum.
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FAITH.
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To believe is to have. Believing and receiving are inseparable. The moment we begin to trust, God begins to save. When we fully trust, God fully saves. When we have faith, we have the witness, — faith being its own witness. “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself.” 1 Jno. 5:19.
Faith is an intelligent act of the will, endorsing and acting on God’s word.
Faith is an emotion, and we may feel and enjoy it, just as we feel and enjoy love, peace and joy. It is placed among the fruits of the Spirit. It is both our own act and the gift of God.
It is both the instrument and substance. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
There is life in faith. “The life I now live in the flesh,” says Paul, “I live by the faith of the Son of God.”
“The bird that sours on highest wing?
Builds on the ground its lowly nest;
And she who doth most sweetly sing
Sings in the shade while all things rest;
Fairest and best adorned is she
Whose garment is humility.
The saint that wears Heaven’s brightest crown
In deepest adoration bends;
The weight of glory bows him down
The most, when most his soul ascends;
Nearest the throne itself must be
The footstool of humility.”
Selected.
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News from the Field.
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Willshire, O., Dec. 1, 1894.
Dear Readers: Since last writing, we held metings in Jalapa and Marion, with a number saved and delivered from sectism. Assembly meeting at Willow Chapel closed Tuesday night. Quite a number consecrated. Four were buried with Christ in baptism, had a precious melting time in services and at the ordinance meeting. Work began here last night. Bro’s. Wm. and Elihu Bragg and wife have been with us for seven or eight weeks, and have been much used of the Lord in preaching, prayer, song and testimony. Pray for the work here, as much sleepiness is manifest. Yours saved,
F. Husted.
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Love’s Lake, La., Nov 29. 1894.
Dear Trumpet Readers: May the Lord bless you all. Amen. I am glad to report victory for the Lord. Since our last report we have baptized eleven and several were sanctified. We closed meeting in southern La. the 25, and came here. Had a precious ordinance meeting of washing the saints’ feet, in which fourty-five or fifty saints took part. Oh how the Lord blessed us in following the meek and lowly Jesus. Bro’s A. Beebe and B. M. Teekell were ordained as elders of the church of God at Lena or near there. We believe them to be called of God to preach his gospel. Pray much for them that they be kept humble and filled with heavenly wisdom. Pray much for the work in the South. Your brother,
R. H. Owens.
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Bozeman, Miss., Nov. 28, 1894.
Dear Saints: We are home again, after a trip of about six weeks, and all well soul and body, thank God! We were in new fields of labor in west La. The dear Lord blessed us with precious meetings every where. There were many hungry souls after righteousness. May our Heavenly Father fill them. We came by east La. and found the saints in good condition, most places the work is moving on; there are some that have a disposition to omit duty, which usually is the way people get lean in their souls and get away from God. We were blessed with precious meetings at each place, but our stay was short, and we left many earnest seekers after regeneration and sanctification. May they get their desire and great need, and may God help those who are in the experience of entire sanctification to instruct and help those
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into the experience who are in their midst. O dear ones, the time is short that we have to spend here for God. May we do all we can. May God help all who read these lines that are saved to continue to obey Heb. 10:23-25, and it will help you and others, and will help the cause of God. Love to all. Pray for us. Your sanctified brothers in Christ,
S. H. & T. L. Bozeman.
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Three Rivers, Mich., Nov. 29, 1894.
Dear Saints and Trumpet Readers: I feel led to make a statement of the glorious meeting we held at Tekonsha on Thanksgiving. The Lord wonderfully blessed Bro. Eldridge in preaching the word. The meeting was one of victory from beginning to end. Six consecrated in the morning for sanctification. Nine came forward at ordinance meeting and were anointed for healing. I ask the prayers of the saints that his flock may stand firm on the Rock. Your brother sanctified and kept by the power of God,
Leroy Burden.
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Elk Dale, Mo.
We are having very precious prayer meetings at private houses, and souls are being saved at nearly every meeting. The Methodists shut us out of their house at Milton, also closed the’ school house against us; but the Lord is still working with us, and we are having such glorious meetings. Oh, it rejoices my heart to see souls get under real Holy Ghost conviction, and cry mightily to God for mercy. Such ones, I find, are the ones that get a real experience of salvation, and know of a truth that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Pray for us, that the Lord may lead us to his glory, to the salvation of souls. Yours in the one body,
J. G. Neff.
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Reynolds, Neb., Nov. 27, 1894.
Dear Brethren: God bless you all in your labor of love. I am praising God for salvation from all sin. I have been laboring of late with my hands. We have closed meeting at the Quin school house. Eight were justified and five were at the altar for sanctification, and most all received the fullness. Five were baptized, others to follow soon. Praise God for this blessed work. We expect to begin a meeting at Mahaska, Kan. soon, the Lord willing. We expect Bro. Stover to be with us in this meeting. We desire the prayers of all the saints for the work at this place that souls may be saved, and God’s church established there. Pray for us. Yours in the love of Jesus,
T. A. Phillips.
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Todd’s Point, Ill., Nov. 28, 1894.
Dear Saints of the Most High: This afternoon finds me sweetly saved and filled with the glory of God. Since coming home from Iowa, the Lord has wonderfully led and kept me. For the past month I have had the privilege of being with dear Bro. Pike, who was wonderfully used in making the crooked places straight in and around Danville. The little church at Danville is in good working condition, and we believe will be used of the Master in spreading the truth. Bro. Pike is moving toward the South. We expect to keep his company as far as Evansville, Ind., then we feel led to take a trip to the eastern part of Ohio, where we shall join Bro. Dennis, who is working in the central and northern part of the state. Any one desiring meeting can address us at 601, Harman Ave., Danville, Ill., for the present. Your sanctified brother,
W. A. Davison.
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Porcupine, Wis., Nov. 28, 1894.
Dear Bro. Warner, and Saints in Christ, Greeting: It has been some time since I wrote to the Trumpet. I have been in the gospel field most of the time; had to labor some with my hands for my support. I worked and held a few meetings at Stanley, Wis. There is a good feeling and quite an opening for the evening light. I held some meetings in Clinton and near Chetek. There is an opening for the gospel there. Now we are at Porcupine, Pepin Co. A large field here in Pierce Co. opening. The dear Lord is opening the hearts of the people. This is a community here in Porcupine where the Latter Day Saints, as they call themselves, have a large society. Mormons is the name, and the fight and conflict is quite fierce. It seems an awful delusion has quite a hold on the people. Last night the Lord sent Bro. Grant to my help. Praise the Lord! Pray for us, dear saints, that this people may be saved out of Mormonism. Pray for us for light, wisdom and love to do his will here in this place. We have the victory, and are seeing some here coming out in the light of God.
Yours in Christ,
W. P. Halbeslebe & T. H. Grant.
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Gresham, Neb., Nov. 28, 1894.
To all the Saints of the Living God: Meeting closed at Bladen, Neb. Sunday evening. This meeting was a glorious victory. The Lord now has a little church at that place. A prayer meeting is established. Meeting only lasted twelve days. We could not stop long enough this time to push the work. Scores of men and women were under conviction. The people came for ten miles to attend. We found many good brethren and sisters that loved the pure word of God. Only eternity will tell the results of this meeting. The people were anxious for the GOSPEL TRUMPET. We find in every town and city God is leading out his children, and the pure gospel is the food they are looking for. Praise God for victory! Bro. Kimmel’s house is now a happy home. Bro. Smith of Edgar was with us in this meeting; also Bro. and Sister Krieble of Kenesaw, over Sunday. We start the 1st. of Dec., in company with Bro. and Sister Krieble for Trenton, Neb.
The Saints are too poor in the West to buy anything, — papers, books or tracts now. Hundreds of families need help from the Government. I got one dollar at the meeting. But poverty is helping along the pure gospel; the people receive it better.
Your brother saved and sanctified,
James Willis.
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Neosho, Mo.
Dear Trumpet Readers: May the peace of God rest and abide with you all for Jesus’ sake. I am glad to report victory over the beast and his mark. Glory to God in the Highest! We find in the Word that they overcame through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. I praise God that I am an overcomer just now. O how blessed it is to follow Jesus in all his ways! Since our last report, we have had some very precious meetings, for which we give God all the glory. We have just closed a very precious meeting near Pineville, Mo. Four converted, and three sanctified. We also held another meeting at Nebo, Ark. Some accepted the truth and some rejected it. Some came out of the sects and got sanctified. One dear soul who had been a constant sufferer for nine years, came out of the M. E. sect, and publicly renounced the devil, and did according to James 5:14, and the Lord healed her. She threw her crutches away and went to walking, and the devil was defeated. The sister got healed, and God gets the glory. Her address is Mattie Setser, Nebo, Ark. The reason so many fail to get healed is because they ask amiss; but the Word says, Ask in faith believing, nothing doubting. O let us get all doubts removed, and get settled in the truth of God. Your brother, in the one body,
Dan Murphey.
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Guy’s Mills, Pa., Nov. 13, 1894.
To the Household of Faith: May the riches of Heaven’s blessings rest upon you all for Jesus’ sake. This evening I feel led of the Lord to give my testimony through the Trumpet. I can say that I am saved through grace, and sanctified by the power of God. Glory be to my blessed Redeemer! I feel that I am in a state of Christian experience that I never have been before, but it has cost me very dearly; but glory to Jesus, it has done me so much good. Dear ones, you that are called out in the field to work for the Lord, do not delay for the Lord will in some way bring you to his service. I know this by experience. Last fall I refused to fulfill my call in the work, and the Lord showed me my mistake by taking my little darling baby home to him. for those whom he loveth he chasteneth, and truly he did chastise me, but glory to Jesus I have learned to obey. Thank God! he has equipped me with his Spirit, and I feel the hand of God on me more every day. I have entered the work again, and met with the church at McLallen Corners Oct.27. Found Bro. Dillon and Co. in a grand meeting. They left for Blystone and the Lord led me to stay with the church until Sunday Nov. 4. when we closed the meeting with an ordinance service. God witnessed the service by the real melting together of the little ones. We feel that the church is in good condition. We expect to return to McLallen Corners Nov. 24. and from there, the Lord willing, will visit Blystone and then where the Lord leads. Bro. A. A. Howard expects to labor with me this winter. Any one wishing meeting can address me at Guy’s Mills, Pa. Box 75. Your bother all on the altar,
H. T. Gibson.
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Pendleton, Ore., Nov. 26, 1894.
Dear Trumpet Readers: It is with much holy love in our souls that we again greet you through the Trumpet in Jesus’ name. We have been moved of God by the Holy Ghost to make an appeal through the Trumpet for some one filled with the Holy Ghost and power, one approved of God and mighty in the scriptures, and ready to leave all and come to this distant field of labor and stay until God more fully establishes his own precious church. We have been sowing the gospel seed in the state of Ore. for the last year, and now most every place we have been there are a few out for God and crying, Come back to our rescue. Many new places are opening for the pure word. Oh who is it, as you read this can hear the pitiful cries of those poor starving souls? Oh dear saints of God, let me entreat of you in the name of Jesus, go at once before God and earnestly implore him to lay his hand upon the right person. We have no choice, but I believe it would be to the glory of God for some single sister that has had a real experience in the gospel work to come. This is a new field and God wants straight workers here to begin with. I believe the work will be well opened, and all territory joined from northern Wash. to southern Ore. at the close of another year. God is moving mightily here on the coast. The saints’ school is demanding the attention of holy men and women of God, and many pitiful voices are heard to day for the bread from heaven that may never be heard again; and the power of Gog and Magog are being marshalled against the truth. And now let me say to all the saints and interested ones in Oregon, take this matter to God with all your heart and plead of him to put some means in your hands to help to bring some of God’s flying angels to this sinful country. Let me hear from all those that want to help in this work whether little or much, and especially all desiring meeting in the future. I am at present in Co. with Bro’s F N. Jacobson and G. W. Martin in a meeting twelve miles north of Pendleton. We will go from here to Weston, and from there to the assembly meeting in Wash., D. V., and then return to my labors in western Ore. And now whoever the Lord leads to this field of labor let us know at once, and we will do all we can to procure any necessary rates and means.
From your brother and sister in Jesus,
J. L. and Lydia Green,
Woodburn, Ore.
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Pellston, Mich., Dec. 2, 1894.
Dear Readers of the Trumpet: May the dear Lord bless you all for his name’s sake, and help you to walk in all the light of his truth. We must walk, yea, run to keep pace with the Lord, for he is moving very fast in these last days. Since our last report from the field, we have put in nine weeks solid labor for the Lord, with the exception of three or four nights that it rained too hard to get out. We have held three meetings, at Levering, Canby and Bliss. At the two last named places we had considerable opposition from sectarians and sect preachers; but a few precious souls were made willing to forsake all things for Jesus, and step out on the Bible line and stand for Jesus amid persecution, not only from sectarians, but some of them from they of their own house. We pray God to keep them firm. There was a sister who had been blind for almost three weeks and had suffered from other bodily afflictions, came to us at Canby, and was instantly healed of the Lord and went on her way rejoicing.
There is much need of some good consecrated workers in Emmett and Cheboygan counties. If you want a field of labor do not think you are obliged to go to California or England to find it. for there is plenty to do nearer by, and if you wish to find a place where you will have the privilege to suffer for the Savior, you can come here on the mission for Jesus. Some of the people here are poor, settled on new farms in the woods; and sometimes we come into a little settlement where there are good farms, quite well cleared and farmers well to do; but one thing you will find is open hearts to receive the truth, and open houses to take you in. I hope some one will feel led of the Lord to come to this country. Some man and wife would be preferable. There is much need of some one to come at once. There has never been much preaching on the evening light in this county, and I do not think there has been any in Cheboygan Co. There are some who are wishing to be baptized, and I hope some one will come who can attend to that part of the work. And remember that Jesus says, There is none that have left houses and lands, father or mother, sister or brother for my sake, and the gospel’s, but that shall receive an hundred fold more in this world with persecutions, and in the world to come life everlasting. Pray for us that the Lord may keep us doing his will, low and humble at his feet. Yours in Jesus, saved by the blood and kept by the power of God,
Allie R. Fisher and Della Gardner.
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Hollenberg, Washington Co., Kan., Nov. 29, 1894.
Dear Saints of the Living God: It has been some time since I have reported to the Trumpet, but I have not been idle. From Auburn camp meeting, a number of us came to Fairburg, Neb. and held a tabernacle meeting, and from there I came in company with T. A. Phillips, to Steele City, Neb., and held a meeting, and from there I went to Lansen, Neb., and spent one week among the German Mennonite people, as some of them were anxious to get light. But as I could not preach German and many could not understand the English, I could not give them the desired light. I hope the Lord will send a German minister to that place in the near future. Next we came to Thompson, Neb., and held a meeting two miles south of town in a school house, in company with Bro. Phillips. From there we came here and held meeting in the Morehead school house one week, and then came four miles south-west to the McLaughlin school house. Some of these are new places where the evening light has not been preached. The Lord was with us in all these meetings, and blessed the word and some souls were saved, some sanctified and some healed, and much of the precious seed sown, which will, no doubt, bring forth fruit to the glory of God. From here we expect to go to Lancaster Co., Neb. to commence a meeting near Bennett. There are several counties there where the evening light has not yet come. Bennett is the place where sectarians have held their holiness camp meetings for years, and charged a gate fee to get in to hear the sect gospel. Now the Lord has opened the way for some of that country to receive the pure gospel by leading a U. B. minister out of sectism. Praise his holy name! As the Lord has impressed me to go there, I have arrangements to be there by the middle of Dec., although there are other places here where they want me to come; but perhaps the Lord will have Bro. Phillips stay in this part and feed the flock and gather out what few honest souls remain in burned over Babylon.
My testimony is that I am saved, sanctified and kept by the power of God, reigning in this life by one Christ Jesus over all this world of sin, the flesh and the devil, and all the works of the devil, and all on fire for God and perishing souls. My life, my time and all my means are consecrated to God and his cause.
M. M. Stover.
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Carthage, Mo., Nov. 19, 1894.
Gospel Trumpet: Two weeks ago to day Bro. Keeling and I came to this place and found Bro. Geo. E. Bolds had begun the battle. Meeting continued until last night with increasing interest unto the close. I was delighted to see the saints in meeting here with open Bibles, and remembered when I first met with them years ago, and after hearing them express various opinions about the 13th chapter of John, I then preached to them from the 17th verse. “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” After that Sister and I held a meeting here and a number decided to obey God, and found his promise true. They have met much opposition to the truth, but have been able to answer like one brother did the man who opposed washing the saints’ feet. The man said, “You ought not to practice feet washing, and I know I am right for I have the Spirit.” The brother replied, “What shall we do then? Another brother says, “He has the Spirit and the Spirit witnesses to the truth of feet washing.” The man replied, “Do what the word says;” the brother replied, “The word says ye ought to wash one another’s feet.” Praise the Lord! the word beat him, and the word beat the devil over 1800 years ago, and beats all error to day. Holding fast the faithful word. — Tit. 1:9. If ye do these things ye shall never fall. — 2 Pet. 1:10. When I think of the number that have been saved at Carthage, and those who have moved away or gone preaching the word, and the many that have been saved as a result, and yet there are a few here who still “hold fast the faithful word,” and are on the advance for God and his truth, and reject everything that rejects the word. To God be all the glory. Surely the blessing of God is with those who keep his word, in experience and practice. While the real saints are the happiest people in Carthage, it is sad to behold the effects of rejecting the truth and holiness of God through blind sect zeal. At one time Carthage stood high in morality and temperence, and the law was enforced when violated, but now wickedness goes almost unpunished, and the officers and people act as if they loved to have it so; while the saloons are in full blast, destroying the rising generation. How fast people go into darkness when they reject the light. I expect to visit the church at different points in southern Mo. as the Lord may lead, and would like to hear from those on my way east who want an increase of faith and a real forward move for God, etc. so that we can arrange for the best. Pray for us. Yours in the faith of Jesus. Amen.
J. Cole.
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OBITUARY.
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Richman. — Sister Nancy Elizabeth Richman was born in the state of Indiana, Dec. 22, 1868, came to the state of Mo. in 1871. Was married to Phillip Richman; and departed this life Oct. 6. 1894; aged twenty-five years, nine months and fourteen days. Sister Richman lived a devoted Christian nearly seven years, and shortly before passing away asked her friends to meet her in glory. She leaves a bright testimony, and a saved husband, two little boys and many relatives and friends. May God bless the breaved husband and friends and help them that they may be also ready to meet death without a sting. Funeral service by
Dan Murphey.
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THE NEW JERUSALEM OR NEW HEAVENS AND EARTH.
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“We desire to have some scriptures explained to us by the aid and teaching of the Holy Spirit. The millennuim has been quite a satisfactory anticipation to us. but since I have read about it in the GOSPEL TRUMPET, and also heard our beloved Bro. Schell, our anticipations have received quite a severe shock, and our faith in that respect is in a tottering condition, but we still have hopes that our understanding of the scriptures on this subject is correct. Namely, the prophesy of the new heavens and new earth and inhabitants and animals, as found in Isa. 65:17-25. The animals in their natural state with the sin-curse removed as in Isa. 11:6, 7. 1 Pet. 3:5- 13 and Rev. 21:1-27. You explain the heavenly Jerusalem is the church of God on earth, and that these prophesies are now being fulfilled. I know that the church of God is here on earth now. But the new heavens and the new earth, as we understand it, are not to be created until after the end of time, or the end of this earth. Then Christ will come, the wicked shall be slain, the children of God be caught up in the air with him. Then the new heavens and new earth, the new city of Jerusalem the bride of Christ, the church of God, is let down upon the new earth, there to abide a thousand years. Yours in love,
D. M. Russel and Wife,
Cable, Ohio.
The Lord bless dear Bro. and Sister Russel. Believing them sincere we take pleasure in writing for their benefit, and for all others who are in need of information upon this subject. However beautiful and pleasing any thing may be to the mind, there can be no real benefit derived from holding the same if it be only a creation of fancy, or the result of wrong interpretations of scripture. Nor is God in any way glorified by us holding an erroneous hope. Therefore let us again carefully consult the word of God upon these things. It will be seen by the above statements that the writers understood
THE NEW HEAVENS AND EARTH, AND THE NEW JERUSALEM ARE THE SAME THING.
So far as we have observed all teachers of the thousand years literal reign of Christ, locate that reign in the new heavens and the new earth, and in the New Jerusalem, and they all seem to look upon these as the same, or inclusive of each other. Here then we occupy at least one point of common ground. For we find the scriptures blend the two together.
“I saw a new heaven and a new earth,” says the Revelator 21:1, and in the very next verse he continues the description of the sight, by saying, “And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” Rev. 21:2. The natural inference is that the latter defines the former. But the voice of prophesy does not leave us with only inference in this matter. We read Isa. 65:17, 18: “For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. But be ye glad and rejoice forever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.”
“Behold, I create new heavens and new earth;” namely, “I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy,” The new heavens, etc., which God promised to create is defined as a new created Jerusalem, and a new created people in her. Therefore it follows that these are identical, and whatever is affirmed of the one will apply to the other. If we can prove that the new Jerusalem is God’s church then we should look for the new heavens and new earth in this heavenly fold.
THE NEW JERUSALEM IS THE CHURCH OF GOD.
This is made plain by the word: “And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” Rev. 21:2. This city was prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. This shows that it is not a literal city. We must give to the new Jerusalem a spiritual interpretation. She represents a bride. Whose bride?
“And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God. Rev. 21:9, 10. This is very clear and conclusive. She is the bride of Christ, the Lamb’s wife; which is nothing more or less than the church he purchased with his own blood. The church is clearly seen as this holy city in these and many other scriptures. Isa. 26:1. Isa 52:1, 2. 60:12-14 66:10-13. Mat. 5:14.
IS THE CHURCH ALREADY MARRIED TO CHRIST?
Let the Word answer. In the morning of this dispensation, when its beautiful twilight, which shone in the ministry of John, was giving place to the more glorious sunrise of Christ himself, his faithful forerunner thus affirmed of him: “He that hath the bride is the bridegroom.” Jno. 3:29 And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast. Mat. 9:15. By “both these witnesses Christ was declared a bridegroom. His church was his bride. He did not return to heaven having the church in anticipation of a future marriage. Nay he was a bridegroom with them. He was taken away in person while in this relation. And he will return, not to consumate his marriage with the church, but to receive his wife.
“For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the Savior of the body.” Eph. 5:23.
“Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.” 24.
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the Church, and gave himself for it.” 25.
“That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.” 26.
That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” 27.
“So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: for we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his tones.” 28, 29, 30.
“For this cause shall a man leave lis father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.” 31.
“This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.” 32, 33.
This language is very clear and conclusive. The marriage relation is that which now exists between Christ and his church. “The husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church.” As the man and his wife are “one flesh,” “We are members of his body, of his flesh and of his bones.” And that we might know that we are indeed married to Christ now, he was unwilling to drop the mysteries of this wonderful relation, without reassuring us that the marriage of the Lamb had already come. “This is a great mystery; but I speak concerning Christ and the church.” So Christ and the church are living in the beautiful bonds of matrimony.
“Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ: that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.” – Rom. 7:4. That we “should be married,” is quite indefinite in time; but the last clause proves beyond doubt the present enjoyment of this holy union with Christ. The object of the same is thus stated, “That we should bring forth fruit unto God.” The fruit of matrimony is offspring. Not in the future world, but now Zion travails and brings forth sons and daughters unto God.” The whole church are workers, “workers together with God” in the salvation of lost souls. In A. D. 30 Jesus had a bride, and was himself bridegroom. Jno. 3:29. And ike a true companion his wife joined heart and soul with him in the great cause which drew him to earth. Accordingly in A. D. 96, we hear “the Spirit and the bride say, Come.” Rev. 22:17. “But Jerusalem which is above (above the law dispensation and the world) is free, which is the mother of us all.” Gal. 4:26. So then if Christ and the church of God, which is spiritual Jerusalem, be not married, her offspring are bastards, and we are not legitimate sons of God.
WHAT IS MEANT BY THE MARRIAGE OF THE LAMB?
The marriage of man and wife in a most striking manner, illustrates our union with Christ. The following are some of the points of agreement between the two. First, in taking a husband, a woman leaves her father and mother’s house, with all its endearing attractions. She also gives up every other aspirant for her heart and hand. She leaves all others on earth to cleave to and love him. So says Christ: “Whosoever forsaketh not father, mother and all that he hath cannot be my disciple.” Second, the bride must even leave her former name, and be called by the name of her husband. So does Christ write his new name upon us, and henceforth whatsoever we do in word or deed we do in his name. Third, the marriage relation is sealed under a covenant of fidelity for life; the husband to love, cherish and protect; the wife to love, honor and obey. So does the Christian enter into an everlasting covenant with God in Christ to abandon all for his sake, to love, trust and obey him in all things. And God places himself under covenant obligations to love us for Christ’s sake, to preserve us from all evil, and supply all our needs. Thus we see that all the prominent features of the marriage state are fulfilled in our present relation to God when saved in Jesus, and he that is not really married to Jesus, has not left all for his sake, and is not saved in God.
WHY THE CHURCH IS CALLED NEW JERUSALEM.
The following are some of the points of agreement between old Jerusalem and the church of God, as type and antitype. First, it was the dwelling place of God on earth. Now the church is the habitation of God through the Spirit. Eph. 2:22. In Jerusalem was the temple of God; the church is now his holy temple. 2 Cor. 6:16. In Jerusalem God recorded his name; his church is also called by his name. In Jerusalem was the place of continual sacrifice unto God. “Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” 1 Pet. 2:5. As, therefore, the Church of God has taken the place of old Jerusalem as the present dwelling place and temple of God, and place of all offerings, she is called the new Jerusalem.
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AN ADDITION TO THE ARTICLE ON “SOCIAL AND SEXUAL PURITY.
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FILIAL love is only found in those children who were earnestly and lovingly desired by the parents, and such have transmitted to them the counterparts of their originators. To those who desire a reformation, I would say, If all the educational institutions on earth, all reform societies, all anti-tobacco advocates, all temperance societies, were united into a consolidated form, working harmoniously together with one intent to purge the earth of this great disease, sensuality, they could not in centuries do as much in the elevation of mankind as can the parents in a few months of prenatal effort. This assertion has the law of Heaven, yea, the Omnipotent God on its side. Witness the multitude of the lame, halt, blind, the deaf and dumb, the deformed, the idiotic, the weak, the drunkards, the gluttons, the debased, the diseased of all kinds, who suffer the penalty of a broken sexual law, and that mar this footstool of the Almighty.
The following I take from a work in my possession, the author of which says:
“Happening into a court-house, where an anxious audience filled every seat and aisle, I ascertained that the prisoner at the bar was arraigned for murder. Presently the jury appeared, the foreman of which, in a clear voice, returned a verdict of murder in the first degree. The judge then asked the prisoner if he had aught to say why a death sentence should not be passed on him. Lifting his eyes toward the judge, and in a voice husky with emotion, said: I am guilty, and have no hopes of other than suffering death; for has not my life been one great record of sin? Only in the prime of life. I have been arrested times without number. I have led a licentious, wicked life, I have done all manner of positive wrong, lied, robbed, counterfeited, and now murdered. And yet I I should not suffer death, for I have not done one of these things willingly. The wicked that was transmitted, bequeathed, and that is in me, I have striven against, fought against; yea, even prayed against. Where is my father, who bequeathed me this deformed soul? Where is my mother who nurtured and more firmly implanted in me this wicked nature? For it is they who embodied these qualities in my organization that have culminated in murder, and it is they to whom this sentence of death should be addressed, and not to me. Oh! not to me! for have I not fought and wrestled against it all the days of my life? But do what I would, strive as hard as I might, it would assert the individuality of its transmitted nature. In saying this, I have said all that I have to say in extenuation of my guilt.”
O parents, in the fear of God, and love of Jesus his Son, with all the holy vehemence against sin that car be contained in a sanctified heart, I ask you to think of this. On you, in the generation of a new life rests a great responsibility, if assumed in a right, and holy endeavor will produce fruit that will redound to your joy and honor, the happiness of humanity, the glory of our Redeemer and the elevating of his glorious kingdom. But if assumed in a wrong and unholy spirit, the pain, anxiety, and penalties produced by such a generation will be more than the mortal man can bear. Such miseries, sufferings, aye, such murders, have been produced by the overgrown and wrongly directed amativeness of man, and the pitable slavery of the woman. It seems indeed a wonder that the pending judgment of Almighty God has not burst forth as a mighty deluge, sweeping by an effort of his omnipotent will from the face of the earth, the perpetrators of such untold wretchedness.
The agony of breaking off a habit once formed through sensuality, especially in promiscuous intercourse, is of such a nature that well may we say, Young man, who ever you may be, you are, in commencing this career of vice, starting on a road on which you will never turn back. You had better stop now, it is your last chance. None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the path of life. — Prov. 2:19. Shun as you would the devil personified those companions who are blighted and fouled in the mire of tobacco, women and wine, and escape her net whose “steps take hold on hell.” Prov. 5:5. Be free and assert your manhood in the face of every demon, and agent of every diabolical scheme introduced to destroy your soul. Be a slave no longer! for out of slavery comes superstition, imbecility, weakness, degradation, and a lapse backward into the abyss of despair, and the darkening depths of hell, from whence emanate all evil thoughts, and every debasing practice. Clustering around the arch-fiend of perdition, is found, everything conceivable in the form of drags to the wheels of human progress. Out of freedom comes liberty of thought and action, perfection of body and soul, holy aspirations reaching forward to those things which are eternal, and a steady advancement in the glorious light of perfect bliss, which carries the soul over all the contaminating influences of Satan’s power, and wafts the happy spirit to the realms of eternal glory.
W. A. Haynes.
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THE WESTERN SCHOOL.
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Pullman, Wash., Nov. 16. 1894.
Dear Trumpet Office and Readers: You have had the report concerning the Saints’ School and Home in this state. We have had this school, by faith, ever since the June camp meeting near Colfax, but now we begin to see it coming in sight. Praise cur God forever! We are very tired of being compelled to send our children to a worldly and ungodly school where they have to mix with all classes of children, the most of which are unsaved, and where they are forbidden to even sing a religious song, or read or teach the word of God. The building is to be 30×50 ft. The lower story is divided into rooms as follows: kitchen, dining room, girl’s sleeping room, boy’s sleeping room, superintendant’s parlor and bed chamber. The upper story will be left in one large room 30×50 ft., for school and chapel. The Lord has wonderfully blessed us in providing material. We have all the nails, nearly all the lumber, and about one half of the windows and doors. We only require about $150 more to complete and furnish the buildings. This institution will be erected in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ by free will offerings. We have not yet, and do not intend to go in debt one dollar. We are sure God has sanctified means enough which he will use for this purpose. So, brethren, look over your consecration and see what your duty is. This School and Home is located on a small stream, called Union Flat, about 10 miles west of Pullman, Wash. We have one hundred and sixty acres of land on which to operate the school, and we hope by another year, by the grace of God, it will be nearly self supporting. There will be part of the land laid off in platts of one acre lots to accommodate those that desire to erect homes, on which the saints can build. A number have already expressed a desire to build as soon as possible. The rest of the land not occupied by the buildings will be devoted to garden, orchard, farming and pasture, except a small grove which will be reserved for camp and grove meetings. We expect to have about one half dozen milch cows, part of which have already been donated, chickens, etc.
This School and Home is for the saint’s children west of the Rocky mountains, and we ask that the brethren everywhere pray that it may be a success, and that it may be well attended. Our object is, first, the salvation of the soul, then the advancement in the different branches as are taught in the public schools. For further particulars, address Bro. G. W. Bailey, president, or myself, James Bamford, secretary,
Pullman, Wash.
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Dear Trumpet Readers: I will try to write my testimony for the first time. I have never heard the saints preach, but by the reading of the GOSPEL TRUMPET, I have learned more about the blessed word of God than I ever heard from sect preachers. I I am trying to live up to the word of God, but fear I fail in some points. I am praying for some of God’s anointed ones to come this way that God may raise up a little church here.
Pray much for me that I may be sanctified, and pray for my husband that he may receive the blessings of the Holy Spirit. I have been brought out of darkness into the marvelous light of the gospel. Yours in the love of Christ,
Laura A. Stookey,
Nowata, Indian Territory.