Experiences in Australia

(130) Letter regarding the apostasy of Elder McCullagh: —

“Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, N.S.W. March 30, ‘97
Dear Brethren, — EA 320.1

(131) My heart feels very sad that Brethren McCullagh and Hawkins have taken the position they have. From the light which the Lord has been pleased to give me, I knew that unless Brother McCullagh could be enlightened regarding the influence of his wife in the home and in the church, unless she were converted heart and soul, the enemy would work through her to deceive her husband. Here is where his past usefulness has been marred, and where his future work will also be marred. I have spared them, and been as tender with them as possible, hoping and praying that Sister McCullagh would be a transformed woman, that she would receive the warning given her of the Lord, and be a helpmeet to her husband. But she is not this; for she has not brought herself into right relation with God. She is his ill-adviser. EA 320.2

I knew that Brother and Sister McCullagh would be strongly tempted in this direction. I knew that a crisis would come, and that they would either see the defects of their home management, or else Satan would blind their perceptions, so that the sin of Eli would become their sin. EA 320.3

These things must be kept before the people, whether men… EA 320.4

(132) You may inquire, “What effect does this have upon you?” Sorrow only, sorrow of soul, but peace and perfect rest and trust in Jesus. To vindicate myself, my position, or my mission I would not utter ten words. I would not seek to give evidence of my work. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” These things must be kept before the people, and I have not to study what will be the consequence to me of giving the messages and warnings. I have put myself in the hands of God. If he permit the enemy to do to me as he did to the Saviour, shall I complain? EA 320.5

The child Christabel needed altogether different management than she had for the formation of a pure, modest Christian character. Sorrow is before Brother and Sister McCullagh in reaping the harvest sown. When the health of Brother McCullagh was so precarious in his last illness, I dare not keep silent. I had spoken upon general principles, plainly and decidedly, in accordance with the word of God, in regard to the responsibilities resting upon parents, the home missionary work to be done, the treatment children should receive in their education and training. The atmosphere surrounding the soul of their daughter is malarious, and is communicated to all the children with whom she associates. In order to save other children from being led into evil practices, I had a duty to do, and I did this as gently and carefully as I knew how. I shall continue to do the same, in order that children shall not be educated by the knowledge and ways and habits of this child. Here is where the present difficulty of Brother McCullagh and his wife lies. This is no sudden movement. The enemy has been at work for a long time. EA 320.6

(133) I sincerely wish that all children were educated to possess the precious virtues possessed by Joseph. His life declares what children and youth of Jesus is an example of what all children may be under proper training and the blessing of God. The inspired writings of Moses, who was moved by the Holy Spirit to make reference to Joseph’s excellent conduct, gives the glory to God. Joseph had the guardianship of God after he was separated from his father, and Joseph looked to the Lord, God made him a representative character. The origin of the lustre which his character reflected was God. The righteousness which he displayed and possessed, was Christ. In Christ are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, as a stream that is hidden is its fountain. Joseph drew his spiritual nourishment from God, and the seed shown in good soil sprang up and bore much fruit. The tenderness and virtue of Joseph’s character were constantly unfolding, displaying a mind like that of Christ. EA 320.7

The Lord would have all children mark the character of Joseph, and be like him. Yet the life of Joseph was not free from trial and grievous affliction. He wore not only the badge of a slave, but the inscription of a felon. Robbed of his liberty, his name and his reputation, he was yet strengthened to preserve his integrity. The Lord’s eye was upon Joseph, watching his course of action as critically as he watched the wicked course of action as critically as he watched the wicked course of the sons of Eli. Each was rewarded according to his deeds. EA 321.1

Christ’s followers are not to despond, although for the faithful discharge of their duty they may incur the unbelief, (134) displeasure and disaffection of those whom they have called themselves friends. Our Redeemer was never appreciated by the people whom he was trying to save and bless. He was abased by the very ones He pitied and tried to save. He stood at the bar of an unjust judge. He was condemned by the charges of poor deluded men who were following their own way, while supposing themselves to be exalted by the false charges they brought against the Redeemer. Misinterpreted and falsified, he was numbered among the malefactors; and in his dying agonies was triumphed over by those he came to save, “Come down from the cross,” they cried, “and we will believe on thee. He saved others himself he cannot save.” EA 321.2

In the great crisis just before us, the followers of Christ will understand what dependence can be placed on men who have turned from the warnings and entreaties of the Spirit of God, to follow their own imaginings. It behooves every soul to stand on the Rock, to build for time and for eternity. EA 321.3

This apostasy is no more than I expected. I attempted to write out some precious things for these brethren, but the word came, “Write not; for they will misinterpret and misapply whatever word you may send them. With his specious temptations Satan is weaving a net about their feet.” EA 321.4

The seed which Brother McCullagh has sown will produce a harvest which he will not care to garner. The influence of his wife is not a pure, uncorrupting influence. He has had this atmosphere surrounding his soul until he is one with it; and if he fails of eternal life, the blood of his soul will be upon her garments. She has not a living connection with God; she is (135) not led and taught of God. She can speak very good things; she can make fair speeches; but she does not understand what a Christian experience is. I fear she will never know what her great need is. She must be born again. She needs, O so much that transformation of character that will make her realize spiritual things. My heart is drawn out in sincere pity and love for the family. I would do anything in my power to save them. EA 321.5

We have never made meat-eating a test of fellowship, never: but when the Lord presents before us the evil of eating the flesh of dead animals that are corrupted with disease,—scrofula, cancer, tumors and these pulmonary diseases,-it behooves everyone who knows these things to speak decidedly against subsisting on such a diet. When, as in the case of Brother Collins, who makes meat his principle article of diet, the sure result is presented in its effect upon the man, who is full of animal passions and lustful practices, then I shall speak. When, as in the case of Brother McCullagh, the result of a meat diet is seen in enfeebled health, I shall bear my testimony. But he is unfortunate; for his wife is constantly leading him away from health principles, which are so essential for him and for every member of his family. It is not merely meat-eating, but the food that is daily prepared for the table is not the best for his health and life. EA 321.6