The Advent Herald, and Signs of the Times Reporter [Himes], vol. 7
March 6, 1844
Vol. VII. No. 5. Boston, Whole No. 149
Joshua V. Himes
THE ADVENT HERALD,
AND SIGNS OF THE TIMES REPORTER.
BEHOLD! THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH!! GO YE OUT TO MEET HIM!!!
NEW SERIES. VOL. VII. NO. 5. Boston, March 6, 1844. WHOLE NO. 149. HST March 6, 1844, page 33.1
THE ADVENT HERALD
IS PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY BY
J. V. HIMES,
AT NO. 14 DEVONSHIRE STREET, BOSTON.
J. V. Himes, S. Bliss, & A. Hale, Editors. HST March 6, 1844, page 33.2
Terms.—One Dollar per Volume, of 26 Numbers. Five Dollars for 6 Copies, Ten Dollars for 13 Copies. HST March 6, 1844, page 33.3
Dow & Jackson, Printers, HST March 6, 1844, page 33.4
TIME SHALL BE NO MORE
And who is He? the vast, the awful form
Girt with the whirlwind, sandal’d with the storm?
A western cloud around his limbs is spread,
His crown a rainbow, and a sun his head;
To highest heaven he lifts his kingly hand,
And treads at once the ocean and the land:
And hark! his voice amid the thunders roar,
His dreadful voice, that time shall be no more!
—Lo! cherub hands the golden courts prepare,
Lo! thrones are set, and every saint is there!
Earth’s utmost bounds confess his awful away,
The mountains worship, and the isles obey;
Nor sun nor moon they need,—nor day nor night;
God is their temple, and the Lamb their light;
And shall not Israel’s sons exulting come,
Hail the glad beam, and claim their ancient home?
On David’s throne shall David’s offspring reign,
And the dry bones be warm with life again.
Hark! white robed crowds their deep hosannas raise,
And the hoarse flood repeats the sound of praise;
Ten thousand harps attune the mystic song,
Ten thousand thousand saints the strain prolong—
“Worthy the Lamb? omnipotent to save,
Who died, who lives, triumphant o’er the grave!
Heber’s Palestine.
From the Midnight Cry.
HST March 6, 1844, page 33.5
THE SAVIOR COMES
Jesus, my Lord, to glory’s gone,
He whom I fix my hopes upon;
Anxious for his return I’ll wait,
And contemplate the glorious state.
HST March 6, 1844, page 33.6
Soon I shall see with undimned eyes,
The glory of new earth and skies,
When Christ to earth returns again,
And all his saints shall shout A men.
HST March 6, 1844, page 33.7
Soon will he come: the earth shall quake,
And rocks and hills their seats forsake,
The mountains melt, the seas retire,
And earth be wrapped in liquid fire.
HST March 6, 1844, page 33.8
O where, in that tremendous day,
Shall sinners hide themselves away?
In vain on rocks and hills they’ll call
To hide them from the Lord of all. l.d.f.
HST March 6, 1844, page 33.9
Prophetic Designations of Time
By Professor George Bush.
The following triumphant argument in proof that the prophetic days are symbols of years, is an extract of a letter from Prof. Bush to Prof. Stuart in the “Hierophant” No. 11, 1843, pp. 242—248. Speaking of that portion of Stuart’s Hints which has respect to prophetic time, he says:— HST March 6, 1844, page 33.10
“For myself, I venture to regard this portion of your work as equally replete with error, and open to refutation as any of the rest; and though my remaining limits will not allow of so full and detailed an expose of its positions as I have given to the preceding, yet I shall hope to adduce sufficient reasons for a most decided rejection of your main averment, viz., that a day in prophecy always means a day, and is never, except in a few specified instances, used to denote a year, or any longer period of time. The question involved I conceive to be one of the utmost moment to the interests of inspired prophecy. If your hypothesis be correct, not only has nearly the whole Christian world been led astray for ages by a mere ignis fatuus of false hermeneutics, but the church is at once cut loose from every chronological mooring, and set adrift in the open sea, without the vestige of a beacon, lighthouse, or star, by which to determine her bearings or distances from the desired millennial haven to which she had hoped she was tending. She is deprived of the means of taking a single celestial observation, and has no possible data for ascertaining, in the remotest degree, how far she is yet floating from the Ararat of promise. Upon your theory, the Christian world has no distinct intimation given it as to the date of the downfall of the Roman Despotism, civil or ecclesiastical, of Mahometanism, or Paganism; no clew to the time of the conversion of the Jews, or of the introduction of the Millennium. On all these points the Church is shut up to a blank and dreary uncertainty, which, though it may not extinguish, will tend greatly to diminish the ardor of her present zeal in the conversion of the world. HST March 6, 1844, page 33.11
I am not indeed of the number of those who deem the consent of fathers, or the current of tradition, an infallible test of biblical interpretation; nor am I in the least a stickler for a punctilious specification of the dates of prophecy; but neither am I, on the other hand, inclined precipitately to discard an opinion long prevalent in the church, which has commended itself to those whose judgments are entitled to profound respect. That such is the case in regard to the year-day calculations of prophecy, I am abundantly satisfied, and I confess too at once to the pleasure that it affords me to find that that which is sanctioned by age is also sustained by argument. How strong is the evidence of its truth from this source, it is the object of my present communication to evince, and I enter upon it without farther preliminaries. HST March 6, 1844, page 33.12
I am not a little suprised at your remark in the following paragraph:— HST March 6, 1844, page 33.13
“It is a singular fact, that the great mass of interpreters in the English and American world have, for many years, been wont to understand the days designated in Daniel and in the Apocalypse, as the representatives or symbols of years. I have found it difficult to trace the origin of this general, I might say, almost universal custom. Without venturing on a positive statement, I am inclined to believe that we may trace it mainly to the distinguished Joseph Mede, who lived and wrote during the first quarter of the seventeenth century. His Clavis Apocalyplica (Key to the Apocalypse) excited much attention when it was published, and indeed for a long time afterwards. Many criticisms were made upon it by the learned; and in the explanation and defence of the positions which he had taken in that work, Mede wrote many comments, essays and letters. The learning, piety, and (in general) sobriety of mind, which this distinguished work exhibited, gave it great influence in the religious community in England, and eventually in America. Abroad, Vitringa and others attacked some of its leading positions, and, as was generally conceded, overthrew them. Still the influence of this work on English commentary, has been felt down to the present hour. Particularly is it so in regard to the subject of reckoning time; the consideration of which is now before us.” p. 74.” HST March 6, 1844, page 33.14
The fact is, Mede is very far from being the first who adopted this solution of the symbolic term day. It is the solution naturally arising from the construction put in all ages upon the oracle of Daniel respecting the Seventy Weeks, which by Jews and Christians have been interpreted of weeks of years, on the principle of a day’s standing for a year. This fact is obvious from the Rabbinical writers en masse, where they touch upon this subject, and Eusebius tells us, (Dem. Evang. L. VIII. p. 258, Ed. Steph.) that this interpretation in his day was generally, if not universally admitted. It is plain that this canon of interpretation is no modern novelty, and the universal consent which your own words ascribe to it, might at least suggest the propriety of a more rigid inquisition into its origin than you have seen fit to institute. I have in my own collection, writers on the prophecies, prior to the time of Mede, who interpret the 1260 days of so many years, and who are so far from broaching this as a new interpretation, that they do not even pause to give the grounds of it, but proceed onwards, as if no risk were run in taking for granted the soundness of a principle which came down to them accredited by the immemorial usage of their predecessors. I do not say that they were justified in this, for in a matter of this nature it is always well to lay an impregnable foundation for whatever system of prophetical interpretation men are prompted to adopt; but, as the present question is merely a question of fact, as to the origin of a certain mode of exegesis, the statement I have made will be seen to be wholly in point. HST March 6, 1844, page 33.15
You enter upon the process of proof by which your main position is to-be established, by laying down the following as one of the plainest and most cogent of all the rules of hermeneutics, viz., that every passage of Scripture, and of every other book, is to be interpreted as bearing its plain, and primary, and literal sense, unless good reason can be given why it should be tropically understood. To the truth of this canon I cordially assent. I subscribe also with equal freedom and readiness to the connected remark, that “when we admit the tropical sense of a passage, we do it because, if literally understood, the subject and predicate would not harmonize, or because a literal sense would be frigid, unmeaning, or inappropriate.” The only question is, whether in the department of prophecy sufficient reasons can be assigned to justify a departure from the literal, and an adherence to a tropical sense. In other words, are these designations of time to be taken symbolically? HST March 6, 1844, page 33.16
The argument, I think, may be summarily despatched. To one who has so long and so largely considered the genius and structure of inspired prophecy as yourself, it can scarcely be, otherwise the superfluous to remark, that the Scriptures present us with two distinct classes of predictions—the literal and the symbolical. Where an event, or series of events, of a historical character, is historically announced, we naturally look for the announcement to be made in the plainest, simplest, and most literal terms. No reason can be assigned for designating periods of time in a mystical or figurative diction. If the fate of nations or individuals is concerned, and those nations or individuals are literally and historically specified, we regard it as a matter of course that whatever periods of time are mentioned in connection with them, they are to be understood also in their primary and literal sense. Thus, to advert to the cases which you have adduced, when God announces the deluge to Noah, as there is nothing figurative of mystical in the events, so the designations of time are to be construed in their natural and obvious import. When it is foretold that Abraham’s posterity should be afflicted four hundred yours—that seven years of plenty and seven years of famine should succeed each other in Egypt—that Israel should wander forty years in the wilderness—that Ninevah should be overthrown within forty days—that Ephraim should be broken within sixty-five years—that the glory of Moab should be contemned within three years, and that Judah should be captive in Babylon seventy years—as all these communities are literally announced, we reasonably and rightly conclude that the several periods of time associated with them should be literally expressed. All this is a dictate of common sense, and you are perfectly right in saying that in these cases “we never once even dream of putting a day for a year.” Why should we? There is nothing at all in the circumstances to require it. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.1
But the case is entirely reversed in regard to the symbolical prophecies, and that for the most obvious of all reasons—the very reason which you have yourself assigned, viz., that in prophecies so constructed, “the subject and the predicate would not harmonize; the literal sense would be frigid, unmeaning, and inappropriate.” Nothing, you are aware, is more obvious, than that the prophets have frequently, under divine prompting, adopted the system of hieroglyphic representation, in which a single man represents a community, and a wild beast an extended empire. Consequently, since the mystic exhibition of the community or empire is in miniature, symbolical propriety requires that the associated chronological periods should be exhibited in miniature also. The intrinsic fitness of such a mode of presentation, is self-evident. In predicating of a nation a long term of 400 or 4000 years, there is nothing revolting to verisimilitude or decorum; but to assign such a period to the actings of a symbolical man or a symbolical animal, would be a grevious outrage upon all the proprieties of the prophetic style. The character of the adjuncts should evidently correspond with those of the principal, or the whole picture is at once marred by the most palpable incongruity. When I find the Most High declaring in express language that the Jews should serve the king of Babylon seventy years, and that after the expiration of that time they should again be restored to their own land, I seek no other than a literal sense in the term year, inasmuch as all the other terms, Babylon, Judah, and captivity, are taken in their ordinary acceptation. But when I find “times and laws given into the hands of the Little Horn for a time, times and half a time,” or three years and a half. I naturally consider this period as mystical, because the Little Horn is so. So when I find “locusts tormenting men five months,” I am as much prompted to inquire into the symbolical import of the five months as into that of the locusts. Why should one of these terms be literal and the other tropical? HST March 6, 1844, page 34.2
Now this distinction in the character of the prophetic oracles you have seen fit to leave out of view altogether. Your whole train of reasoning goes on the asumption, that as periods of time are to be literally understood, in connection with certain predictions, so they are in all. But the distinction is palpably obvious, and a glance of the mind’s eye is sufficient to evince that we cannot legitimately reason from the one to the other. On the ground you have assumed the argument will stand thus;—The chronological periods attached to all literally expressed prophecies are found to be themselves literally and not mystically expressed. Therefore the chronological periods attached to all symbolically expressed prophecies, must be themselves literally and not mystically expressed. Now this is a gross non sequitur. It is reasoning from unlike to unlike. More is put into the conclusion than had appeared in the premises. You will not be surprised therefore at the intimation that the whole force of your argument, based upon this ground, dissipates itself as completely as the famous waterfall in Switzerland, where the water is precipitated from so vast a height that it turns to mere vapor before it reaches the bottom of the declivity. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.3
The grand principle into which the usage of employing a day for a year is to be resolved, is that of miniature symbolization. As the events are thus economically reduced, the periods are to be reduced in the same relative proportion. What that proportion is, we cannot positively determine without some antecedent information touching the rate or scale of reduction. But the probability is, that such scale will be at the rate of a day or minor revolution of the earth round its axis, for a year or greater revolution of the earth round the sun. In adducing the proof of the principle upon which this prophetic usage depends, you will of course read at once the answer which I return to your construction of Ezekiel 4:5, 6, and Numbers 14. As to the first, we are informed that Ezekiel was commanded to “lie on his left side 390 days, that so he might bear the iniquity of the house of Israel.” This was a typical action constituting a symbolical prophecy, and so far as its chronological purport is concerned, Jehovah himself adds, “I have appointed each day for a year.” Ezekiel is in this transaction a miniature hieroglyphic of Israel; a man, of a nation. Hence as the man represented the nation in miniature, so the 390 days represented the period of 390 years in miniature. In like manner, his lying forty days on his right side symbolized the foreseen iniquity of Judah through the period of forty years. Again, when the land of Canaan was to be searched, twelve spies were appointed out of the twelve tribes to make the purposed explorations and report the result on their re-return. The tenor of their report and the subsequent conduct of the people was such that God was highly displeased, and consequently declared that Israel should wander in the desert for forty years, each year corresponding to one of the forty days of the espial. In this case, also, we recognize the same principle as in the preceding. The twelve selected spies jointly constituted a miniature symbol of the entire nation. Accordingly, the predicted term of the national wanderings was analogously represented in miniature also. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.4
Your remarks upon these cases, viewed in their bearing upon the question at issue, are contained in the following extracts: HST March 6, 1844, page 34.5
“The prophet is expressly told in this case, that one day is to be the symbol of a year. Why? Plainly because it would never enter the mind of himself or of any other man, that such could be the case, unless he were expressly informed of it. What bearing, then, in the way of analogy, does or can this have upon the designations of time in Daniel and in the Apocalypse? Certainly none; for in these books we have no information given of such a nature. The writers never once hint at such a mode of interpretation. What follows, then, except that we must interpret these books in the usual way? A special communication to Ezekiel was deemed necessary in order to his understanding that days would or could be the symbols of years. Such a communication was in fact necessary; for nothing can be more natural to all men, than to interpret plain designations of time in the simple and usual way. To prevent Ezekiel from doing so, the symbolic significancy of days is a matter of express injunction. This of course constitutes a good and adequate reason for adopting the symbolical meaning of the word day in the passage before us. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.6
“But how is it with the designation of times in Daniel and in the Apocalypse, where no such injunction or explanation is given? There can be, as it seems to me, but one answer to this question; which is, that those times are of course to be reckoned in the usual manner. Instead of being aided, then, by an appeal to Ezekiel 4:5, 6, we find that a principle is in fact recognized there, which makes directly against the interpretation which we are calling in question. The express exception as to the usual mode of reckoning, which is there virtually made, goes, under such circumstances, directly to show that the general rule would necessitate us to adopt a different interpretation.” pp. 76, 77. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.7
In like manner as to the case of the spies in Numbers 14. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.8
“We perceive at once that the whole is dependent on special divine appointment. Had the declaration been that ‘Israel should wander in the desert according to the time in which the spies had been absent,’ would any one have ever supposed that forty years were meant? It is conceded that they would not, in the very fact that express mention is made, that days are to stand as the symbols of years. Without a declaration of this import, no one would ever have surmised that the case was such. Now as neither Daniel nor the Apocalypse ever mention such a mode of counting days for years, what else can we do, except to follow the common laws of language in the interpretation of their predictions?” p. 78. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.9
The obvious reply to all this is, that the instances now adduced are to be considered as merely giving us a clew to a general principle of interpretation. Here are two or three striking examples of predictions constructed on the plan of miniature symbolic representation, in which the involved periods of time are reduced to a scale proportioned to that of the events themselves. What then more natural or more legitimate, than that when we meet with other prophecies, constructed on precisely the same principle, we should interpret their chronological periods by the same rule? Instead of yielding to a demand to adduce authority for this mode of interpretation, I feel at liberty to demand the authority for departing from it. Manente ratione manet lex, is an apothegm which is surely applicable here if any where. You repeatedly in the course of your pages appeal to the oracles of common sense as the grand arbiter in deciding upon the principles of hermeneutics. I make my appeal to the some authority in the present case. I demand in the name of common sense, a reason why the symbolical prophecies of Daniel and John should not be interpreted on the same principle with other prophecies of precisely the same class. But however loud and urgent my demand on this head, I expect nothing else than that hill and dale will reecho it even to “the crack of doom,” before a satisfactory response from your pages falls on my ear. HST March 6, 1844, page 34.10
All the answer I obtain is the following:—“Instead of being aided, then, by an appeal to Ezekiel 4:5, 6, we find that a principle is recognized there, which makes directly against the interpretation that we are calling in question. The express exception as to the general mode, which is there virtually made, goes, under such circumstances, directly to show that the general rule would necessitate us to adopt a different interpretation.” I may possibly be over sanguine in my anticipations, but I cannot well resist the belief that the reader will perceive that that which you regard as the exception is in fact the rule. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.1
Our Church; or DR. ORTHODOX AND DEA. HOPEFUL
Continued.
The subject of the article here continued is not a mere fancy sketch. ED. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.2
Dr. Orthodox was troubled—Here is a difficult case; thought he. Here is a case which sound Theology, and all my Logic, cannot reach. Yet I cannot give up the wanderer—what will my brethren—what will our church say, if I do not succeed, in my attempt to reclaim! With these thoughts, he became irritated and broke forth to the heretic, after the following fashion. Very well, you may have some slight opportunity to suffer, as you seem so desirous of becoming a martyr. We can arrange that matter to your full satisfaction, I doubt not.—When gentleness will do, we use that, but if that does not answer, we use the rod of correction. You are a deluded fanatic—a crazy child, and a little harshness will do wonders, towards restoring you. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.3
Mrs. Hopeful. What have I done? HST March 6, 1844, page 35.4
Dr. O. Done! Why you’ve committed the unpardonable sin, that crime of crimes, looking for your Lord to come soon, and you even spread light on the subject. You even give your influence, to help on an unhallowed excitement. You’ve disgraced our church, by associating with a low, and despised class of christians, and its fitting that we wipe, off the reproach by disowning you. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.5
Mrs. H. I know, assuredly, that I have not displeased my Savior, in the course I have pursued; and he will not be ashamed to acknowledge me. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.6
Dr. O. Have your views respecting our church changed of late? What do you think of it? HST March 6, 1844, page 35.7
Mrs. H. I think it for the most part in a frigid, frozen state, there is too much of the world in it, to allow it to possess much vitality. I feel that God is calling loudly on his chosen ones, to testify against the fearful lukewarmness of the church. I believe that God has a chosen people in every church, and he would have them “be separate, and touch not the unclean.” He is saying, “Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her plagues.” HST March 6, 1844, page 35.8
Dr. O. Its true the church is not perfect. Yet it is graven on the palms of the hands of our Savior. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.9
Mrs. H. I suppose the dry branches are not graven there. The church is the body of Christ, and only those who “abide in the vine,” belong to the body of Christ. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.10
Dr. O. Satan helped you to that construction. Let me tell you to abide in the vine, means to abide in your own church, and not to wander away from those spiritual advises, whom a merciful God has placed over you! You are in a sad, sad state, hopelessly lost, I fear. HST March 6, 1844, page 35.11
Mrs. H. Is not a church corrupt just in proportion as it is popular? HST March 6, 1844, page 35.12
Dr. O. Not at all, according to that, it would be a mass of corruption in the Millenium, when all the world is in the church. I do admit that the church is no better than it should be, and I ask what will become of it, if all the light, leaven, and salt leave it? No christian has any right to leave [ original illegible] HST March 6, 1844, page 35.13
Mrs. H. Then Luther and the reformers did wrong, in exposing the errors of the Romish church, and in coming out, and being separate. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.1
Dr. O. Most decidedly! They had no earthly right, to leave the church at all. There God had placed them, under his own spiritual advisers, and they were not responsible for what they were taught. They were under solemn oath to walk with the church, until by providence or death removed. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.2
Mrs. H. And is the world no better for Luther’s labors? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.3
Dr. O. Scarcely. He had done more for the world had he kept quietly in his own church. He might have served his Savior much more effectually, had he remained in the church and attempted to make it better. However, I am not usually strenuous on this point, as most of my brethren think the Reformation a very good thing—and I always avoid contention where I can. I reason in this way: if Luther’s reformation was a good and desirable one—so are all, and where will the reformations end?—in breaking up our churches and scattering our clergy I fear, so I will not admit that Luther’s reformation, on the whole, was any benefit to the world. But—now you may go home, and remember that you are a reproach to the whole church, a disgrace to your husband, in a fair way to ruin his prospects—break up your family, and get into the Insane Hospital. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.4
[Exit Mrs. Hopeful.] HST March 6, 1844, page 36.5
Dr O. (alone pacing his study.) This Millerism is the quintescence of all I detest! Abominable—I would that it had one neck that I might crush it—the very thought of the Lord’s coming is to be avoided. Why, what will become of the wicked! Am I to desire the Savior so much as to be willing that they be cut off? “Even so come Lord Jesus!” does not mean that in my apprehension, and I have been a close student of Theology for more than thirty years. Why I have had the offer of being President of a Theological Seminary! It cannot be that I am mistaken, and the weak, foolish, and despised, are right in this matter—I’ll not believe it—my conscience is getting pervious—I fancy it is diseased; why, what a bedlam my soul has been in, while I have been trying to get back this wanderer to the fold! It cannot be that I am wrong! Oh no, I never am, I always was very correct from a child. My judgment is unusually good—as is abundantly proved, by the very general homage paid me by the great and learned of our church. And even now at this juncture, great confidence is reposed in me, for they ask me, with a few dashes of my powerful pen, to efface Millerism from the earth! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.6
Yes, I’ll do it directly, no need of hurrying the matter, that would not be dignified. It’s too contemptible entirely, for me to meddle with, and it will require great condescension, to be sure, to stoop so low as to refute it! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.7
What a meek one that Mrs. Hopeful is! The scripture is not fulfilled in her case, “the meek shall he guide in judgment.” “The meek shall he teach his way.” She has taken leave of her senses entirely, in my apprehension. To be sure it is through much tribulation, that we enter into the kingdom of heaven—that’s a comfort to me in all my trouble and perplexity. With all my wisdom I am perplexed to know how to dispose of some of my poor church members—they are as meek as Moses, and yet they do not inherit the earth, and the Bible says, that the meek shall inherit the earth, and makes no exceptions; yet here are some in our church, who hvae not an inch of land to set foot on! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.8
Well, to be sure I do not wish to dispute prophecy, but how can I believe it, when my observation and experience testify against it. “Meek inherit the earth,” perhaps these low persons are in the right of it after all, and there is to be a New Earth for them to inherit! Get behind me Satan! tempt me not, to such a gross belief. This is too fanciful entirely. So like Paradise of Mahomet—the new Jerusalem of the Mormons—if the word of God does support it, I cannot, away with it. I had much rather anticipate sitting on a floating cloud, and singing Hallelujahs forever. The New Heaven and New Earth of the Adventists, is too tangible. The Bible describes it too vividly for my apprehension. Hence I must conceive it to be understood spiritually. I had rather have something gloriously indefinite—it gives more scope to imagination, and every one then can have a heaven to suit himself—besides an uncertain hope not founded on a particular scripture, does not lead to such uncomfortable [original illegible] of life as the looking for [original illegible] such things” as the Millerite’s does. From this hope good Lord deliver me. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.9
Who would get an estate in the world, with such a hope, who would labor for the meat which perisheth! ‘T would be the ruin of business. And one good, substantial reason, why I think that nothing can be known about Christ’s coming, and the place he has gone to prepare, for those that love him—place he has gone to prepare, “beyond the bounds of time and space”—no place at all, then, and the Bible version is to be understood spiritually. Yes, one reason why nothing is to be understood of what is revealed, about these things is, that would create confusion, and consternation in every department of labor, and occasion a great deal of unnecessary inconvenience. Without holiness of heart, the belief must make one crazy—ergo, it is better, in my apprehension, not to broach the subject at all, and let people live, while they live, in peace and quiet, and not be forever harassed “with watching for the Lord’s coming!” HST March 6, 1844, page 36.10
(Enter Mrs. Orthodox.) HST March 6, 1844, page 36.11
Mrs. O. Husband, what is this new doctrine of which we hear so much? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.12
Dr. O. Why the long and the short of the matter is, it is one of the “wiles of the devil!” HST March 6, 1844, page 36.13
Mrs. O. Well, how happens it, that the best christians of our church are among the believers? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.14
Dr. O. No such thing at all—they are not our best members. I call Dea. Hopeful, Dea. Lagging and Esq. Prudent, among the most saintly of our church. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.15
Mrs. O Saints truly! and sound in the faith as far as it consists in sleeping soundly. They are so far as I can judge, sound asleep in religion, and they are often sound asleep in church! Have you forgotten how Dea. Hopeful came tumbling out of his seat, into the aisle, (only two weeks ago) from the top of a sound nap—exciting peoples risables and making the old church jar, again? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.16
Dr. O. Hush, hush, don’t mention it. We’ve not a more efficient man in the church—besides, my dear, you should have more respect for one, in good and regular standing in our church—possessing large property, and unbounded influence. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.17
Mrs. O. I must say, that I have more respect for one who has moral courage to maintain good and regular wandering, from the church! Mrs. Hopeful for instance. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.18
Dr. O. Mary, Mary, what does this mean? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.19
Mrs. H. Why, husband, I feel that when the church is as dead and lifeless as ours, and some members find better food elsewhere—where they can get instructions on the subject of the Lord’s coming, they have a perfect right to go! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.20
Dr. O. Well said, well said. I did not expect this from you? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.21
Mrs. H. My soul is full—else I could not have spoken as I have. For a long time my thoughts have been fixed on this subject, but I have dreaded to tell you how deeply it is impressed on my mind! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.22
Dr. O. Where will this end? Where will this end? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.23
Mrs. O. My dear, tell me, have you ever calmly and deliberately sat down to the investigation of the Advent question? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.24
Dr. O. Nonsense—no, child, my time is quite too precious, to waste in that way. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.25
Mrs. O. But, husband, it has originated just where I should suppose truth would originate, and the world is in just the state the Bible describes, when the Son of man shall return? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.26
Dr. O. Nonsense! Mary! what Second Advent books have been turning your head? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.27
Mrs. O. The greatest Second Advent book in the world—the Bible? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.28
Dr. O. Mary, you are beside yourself!—You’re mad? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.29
Mrs. O. Nay, husband, but I speak forth the words of truth and soberness. We can as well “discern the signs of the times,” as we can discern the face of the sky, The signs of the coming of the Lord are all fulfilled, whether we take them literally or figuratively, and when I see these signs fulfilled, as I now do, I know that the judge standeth at the door, and I have no disposition to join with the scoffing world, who asks “Where is the promise of his coming?” HST March 6, 1844, page 36.30
Dr. O. These signs are just no signs at all—they have always been fulfilling. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.31
Mrs. O. Never have the signs in the sun, moon and stars—the distress of nations, the perplexity men’s hearts failing them, for fear of those things, which are coming upon the world—been clustered [original illegible] When we begin to see these things, we are told to rejoice, for our redemption draweth nigh? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.32
Dr. O. Too fanciful entirely for my apprehension. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.33
Mrs. O. Husband, have you ever fasted and prayed over the subject? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.34
Dr. O. Fasted and prayed over it! Why no, if I did that, I should expect to believe it! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.35
Mrs. O. Then, husband, you either think, that fasting and prayer leads one into error, or you are afraid of being led into the truth! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.36
Dr. O. I see how it is. Sister Hopeful is gaining you over to be as great a heretic as herself! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.37
Mrs. O. I wish I were as good as she is! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.38
Dr. O. Let me enquire into this business. Do you see her often? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.39
Mrs. O. She comes to our weekly prayer meetings. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.40
Dr. O. She must be silenced directly—that the mischief spread no further. She is a dangerous person! As for you, Mary, do you never open your mouth on the subject out of my presence. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.41
Mrs. O. Sister H. is a sweet, meek and humble christian, full of the Holy Ghost, and of faith. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.42
Dr. O. How do you know that I can testify that she is filled with the spirit of the angel of light, that is the old serpent! How do you know she is guided by the Spirit? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.43
Mrs. O. It is written, by their fruits ye shall know them, and the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, long-suffering, etc. The sister has the fruits of the Spirit, and therefore I judge she is guided by the Spirit. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.44
Dr. O. Well, we shall see! None of the great and learned men of our church believe these despised doctrines—and if they were true, they of course would have been first to find them out—the doctrine is heresy, according to the articles of our church, and we shall proceed to deal with offenders accordingly. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.45
Mrs. O. See that thou have nothing to do with these just persons, for like Pilate’s wife, I have suffered many things in a dream this day because of them. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.46
Dr. O. Is Saul among the prophets? Are you too a dreamer? HST March 6, 1844, page 36.47
Mrs. O. I am not, as you very well know,—yet I will not reject any light God may be willing to shew me—even if it is by a dream. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.48
Dr. O. I suppose your next movement will be, to say you are guided by the Spirit. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.49
Mrs. O. When I ask for bread, will my heavenly Father give me a stone? With God are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, and he giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not. He has said, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.50
Dr. O. Hush, hush, do not pervert any more Scripture, if you please—if you persist in this course, you will strike at the root of all my happiness—you’ll blast my earthly prospects forever! Mrs. Orthodox a Millerite indeed! (with great contempt.) HST March 6, 1844, page 36.51
Mrs. O. The Savior is at the door—He has said “surely I come quickly,” I can say, “Even so, come Lord Jesus.” The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly! HST March 6, 1844, page 36.52
Dr. O. I cannot say, Even so, Come Lord Jesus, and cut off the wicked! I have too benevolent a heart for that—(after, a pause as if musing to himself.) Day of the Lord near—hasteth greatly. I made a capital bargain buying that land, if the day of the Lord does come soon, what will become of my farm? Catharine. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.53
To be Continued.
THE DAY OF JUBILEE
Lo! the day at length is dawning,
Jesus comes to set us free;
Hail! the eternal Sabbath morning;
Hail! the day of jubilee.
‘Tis the purchase
Of his bleeding agony.
HST March 6, 1844, page 36.54
Streams of music, loud as thunder,
Rolling down his lofty throne!
Blest immortals, rapt in wonder,
Low adore the Glorious One.
Heaven descending,
With its radiance veils the sun.
HST March 6, 1844, page 36.55
Lo he comes! the clouds encircling
Wreathe his form—beneath, around,
Fallen his foes! their blood empurpling
All his venture, stains the ground.
“Hallelujah!”
Still the harps of heaven resound.
HST March 6, 1844, page 36.56
Advent Herald & Reporter
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, MARCH 6, 1844.
All communications for the Signs of the Times, or orders for Books or remittances, should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass,” post paid. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.57
Post Masters are authorized by the Post Office Department to forward free of expense all orders for, or to discontinue publication, and also money to pay for the same HST March 6, 1844, page 36.58
Subscribers’ names with the State and Post Office should be distinctly given when money is forwarded. Where the Post Office is not given, we are liable to misdirect the paper, or credit to the wrong person, as there are often several of the same name, or several Post Offices in the same town. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.59
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES on which the SECOND ADVENT CAUSE IS BASED
I.—The word of God teaches that this earth is to be regenerated, in the restitution of all things, and restored to its Eden state as it came from the hand of its Maker before the fall and is to be the eternal abode of the righteous in their resurrection state. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.60
II.—The only Millenium found in the word of God, is the 1000 years which are to intervene between the first and second resurrections as brought to view in the 20th of Revelations. And the various portions of Scripture which are adduced as evidence of such a period in time, are to have their fulfilment only in the New Earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.61
III—The only restoration of Israel yet future, is the restoration of the Saints to the New Earth, when the Lord my God shall come, and all his saints with him. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.62
IV.—The signs which were to precede the coming of our Savior, have all been given; and the prophecies have all been fulfilled but those which relate to the coming of Christ, the end of this world, and the restitution of all things. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.63
V.—There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, extending beyond the [Jewish] year 1843. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.64
The above we shall ever maintain as the immutable truths of the word of God, and therefore, till our Lord come, we shall ever look for his return as the next event in historical prophecy. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.65
EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE
Dear Brother Bliss:—We left Philadelphia on Monday the 19th inst., and arrived at Baltimore at 3 o’clock P. M. We found a happy company of believers there, who received and greeted us with a warm friendship. The Advent Depot, (at the southwest corner of North and Fayette-sts.) was thronged by the friends of the Advent, and strangers who were interested to know more of this important matter.—I gave a lecture in the evening to a crowded and attentive auditory. Bro. Miller followed, with some appropriate remarks. The labors of Bro. Litch in that city have been greatly blessed. There is a large congregation gathered already, and others might be gathered, if we had efficient lecturers to take the ground. Bro. Prisdeaux has the care of the meetings in the absence of Bro. L. Bro. Miller will commence his lectures there on the 4th of March. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.66
Many of the colored people have received the doctrine. One of their most efficient ministers has embraced the doctrine in full, and will devote himself wholly to the proclamation of it. The people of color will therefore have a congregation, where the Advent doctrine will be fully proclaimed. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.67
We come to this city on the 20th ult. Bro. Miller commenced his lectures in the evening at the Baptist meeting-house, near the Navy-Yard. The House was thronged, and many had to leave, for want of room. He has now given three lectures. The effect thus far is very great. Prejudice is being removed, and many of the Protestants and Catholics are becoming favorable, who have heretofore rejected the doctrine, as a speculation, or, at least, as a visionary scheme. The whole community are now waked up to examine the question. We finish here on the 25th ult. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.68
On the 26th ult. we commence lectures at the Oppollo-Hall, in this city, near the White-House.—We have arranged the appointments there, so that strangers in the city, and the members of Casar’s household may have the light if they choose, But our only hope is, that the common people, and the pious of all sects will receive and profit by the truth. Yet the warning will be given to all, and all will hear it. It cannot be evaded. The lectures of Bro. Miller are like the galvanic battery, they electrify the whole body, political and ecclesiastical. It is not a matter of choice whether they will hear the warning and consider the word of the Lord to this generation, but a necessity. They cannot put it out of their minds, or their conversations, if they try. It follows them day and night. It is all the talk when awake, and, if we are to believe many, even of the wicked, it is the chief subject of their dreams when asleep.—God is in this matter. And the message we proclaim of Christ at the coor, will prove a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death. J. V. Himes. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.69
P. S.—We issued the first number of the “Southern Midnight Cry,” on Saturday last. We print 10,000 copies, which will be scattered in this city, Baltimore and the neighboring towns. Two numbers will be issued here, and then it will be published by Bro. Litch at Baltimore. Bro. Litch is with us, rendering efficient aid. J. V. H. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.70
Washington, D. C. Feb. 23, 1844.
Sleeping in Jesus
Died at Tolland, Ct., Feb. 11th, John Bliss, aged 4 years and 10 months, and on the 13th, Mary Jane, aged 8 months, only children of Bro. L. S. and Sister Mary E. B. Fuller. They both died of the scarlet fever and, were buried in the same coffin. Just before John died he wished to kiss his little sister, and wished to know if she was going with him? Lovely and pleasant were they in their lives, and in their death they were not divided. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.71
“Thus saith the Lord, Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded saith the Lord, and they shall come again from the land of the enemy. And there is hope in thine end saith the Lord, that thy children shall come again to their own border.’ ‘Of such is the kingdom of heaven.’ HST March 6, 1844, page 36.72
Sleep on, sweet ones, in thy narrow bed,
But thy calm slumbers soon will be o’er;
The last trump shall awaken the dead,
And in death thou with slumber no more.
HST March 6, 1844, page 36.73
A little while we shall miss you here,
And our hearts for you lonely will be;
But you bright morn will dry every tear:—
Even now its fair dawning we see.
HST March 6, 1844, page 36.74
Thy children dear will return again,
From out the land of the enemy.
And in Eden’s bowers forever, then,
Among Earth’s ransomed one’s they will be.
HST March 6, 1844, page 36.75
So we will not mourn for those who sleep In Jesus, who so soon will arise; But if we mourn, for ourselves we’ll weep, And endeavor to meet in the skies. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.76
Persecution
That Christians should oppose the doctrine of the Advent, that they should reject that blessed hope, the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; or that they should persecute and despise those who are only guilty of the crime of looking for, and loving the appearing of the Lord; a few years since, few would have believed. And yet within a short time we have witnessed all this among the professed disciples of the Lord! Some would deny that this has been the case: but these things have “not been done in a corner.” The great majority of the churches (honorable exceptions there have been,) have arrayed themselves against the presentations of the simple evidence of the immediate coming of Christ. Humble, and praying souls there have been, who have not joined the universal cry, Away with this doctrine, we will have none of it; but of the majority we speak. The doors of most of the churches in our land have been closed against this doctrine. Pastors have boasted that their churches were free from it. The finger of scorn and derision has been pointed at those who could not resist the Bible evidence of the nearness of the event; and nicknames have been given them. Sarcasm and ridicule have been the arguments used to disprove it. Members of churches, in good and regular standing, have been denied the privilege of exhorting their fellow servants to prepare for the coming judgment. And they have been excommunicated without a cause. The religious press, so called, have also been first and foremost in heaping opprobrium upon those who have been so foolish as to believe the Bible as it reads; and all manner of false and scurrilous reports have been published by them, the tendency of which were to show that those who were looking for the Lord were a set of ignorant and deluded fanatics. In view of such facts, those who felt the importance of assembling themselves together, of exhorting one another daily, and so much the more as they see the day approaching, felt impelled, in view of the judgment, to meet together, that they might “comfort one another with the words” spoken by the apostles and prophets of the coming One; and that they might lift up their heads and look up, because their “redemption draweth nigh.” They thus while breaking none of their covenant obligations, found that their souls were fed with the bread of life, and themselves drawing nigh unto the kingdom. HST March 6, 1844, page 36.77
For these acts of occasional absenting themselves from the meetings of their sects, that they might receive that seasonable food, which they were denied at home, and for which their souls were hungering, and also for uniting in these “union meetings,” many of the churches have come down upon their offending members, with all the vengeance, in proportion to their power, that the “mother of harlots,” while her “daughters” were innocent babes, ever put forth against any who dared dispute her mandates. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.1
That the charges usually preferred have only been the ostensible ones, is shown from the eagerness with which all Adventists are disciplined for every supposed derilection from the path of duty, while Anti-Adventists, whose crimes have been the same, or greater, without the redeeming virtues of worshipping any where, have been permitted to pass on unpunished. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.2
In view, therefore, of being thus cast out the pale of Christendom, we have ventured to inquire why it is? And Mr. Miller, a short time since, entreated any, in the respective churches, to honestly answer, why. To this request the Hartford Christian Secretary comes out in half a column under the caption of “Persecution,” with what he calls “our answer;” in which he endeavors to make out that this appeal is for the purpose of getting sympathy, and doubts whether such cases of persecution do exist. Now, although we have a list of facts, which would astonish those who have not been familiar with the “modus operandi” of modern church discipline; yet we will only refer to the Baptist churches in Hartford, with which the Christian Secretary is more intimately acquainted. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.3
Dr. David Crary and wife, members of the First Baptist Church in that city, feeling their spiritual good demanded that they should withdraw from a church where they could not receive the food on which their souls love to feast, sent the following communication to that church. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.4
To the First Baptist Church of Hartford. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.5
Dear Brethren and Sisters:—Being fully convinced, by a careful study of Scripture that the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and that it will shortly be ushered in by the personal coming of Jesus, in the glory of the Father, with all the holy angels, we feel constrained, inasmuch as this belief differs essentially from that embraced by the body of the church to ask of you a dismission of church relationship. And so doing, we would not have you infer that we have aught against an individual member of this church; for we have no feelings but those of kindness and respect for you all; and it is duty to God and to man alone that prompts us to take this step. Our views upon many subjects have been greatly changed within the last eighteen months, by studying the Bible as we believe God designed it should be studied; not by the use of Commentaries, but by comparing Scripture with Scripture and asking the aid of the Holy Spirit, that we may be guided into all truth. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.6
By this course of study, we have found that all those promises which have been referred by the church to the temporal millennium, do in fact relate to the eternal state of the righteous in the New Earth, where all the true Israel will be gathered from the land of death, and from a world of sorrow, and will be made subjects of that kingdom of which there will be no end, with Jesus our Savior for their everlasting King. Then will the tabernacle of God be with men. We are also fully convinced that all the signs given by the prophets, our Savior, and the apostles, (for they all speak of the restitution of all things) to betoken the great day of the Lord at hand, have been literally fulfilled; and all that is required of us to see that these things are so, is to receive the word of God as a little child. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.7
Believing these things as we do; you must see that we are consistent in maintaining that this doctrine ought to be proclaimed until the Lord comes; and we feel it our duty to further this object as much as possible. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.8
We would beg of you, our dear brethren and sisters, every one for himself, to examine this great and momentous subject without delay. We are all alike interested in it; we believe the Bible is plain; and as Christ commanded us to know when his coming is nigh, even at the doors, so let us all see to it that we are upon the watch, that we be not overtaken as a thief. That we may all be prepared, blameless unto the day of his coming, is our prayer. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.9
David Crary.
Susan H. Crary
Hartford, Jan. 27th, 1844.
To such a communication, it might be supposed that civil answer would be given; and that their request would be complied with, or the reasons for dissent presented in a like Christian manner. But the result was neither. On its being read to the church, one of the most prominent deacons arose and said he thought the belief contained in that letter, was enough to exclude them from that church; they not only believed the time of Christ’s coming, but interpreted the Scriptures differently from them, which should exclude them. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.10
Another brother however showed them that such was the faith of the church anciently, before the church departed from the faith, by giving heed to fables, within the last 150 years. But this availed nothing with that church. And instead of complying with their request, they “excluded” them, as they term it, “for neglecting their covenant obligations,” which obligations they had never broken. Instead of endeavoring to point out their error, or acting upon the request of the letter, they excommunicated them at once. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.11
We selected this case, from its occurring in Hartford, as the Editor of the Secretary confesses that he “could hardly suppress a smile” that such a request as Mr. Miller’s should be made, whose “letter,” he says:— HST March 6, 1844, page 37.12
“Certainly conveys a most essential misrepresentation, so far as we have had opportunity to judge from personal knowledge. To be sure, we cannot positively say that there have been no churches which have dealt harshly or unkindly with members, simply for believing in the speedy advent of Christ, or for holding Mr. Miller’s iews of the Millennium, but we very much doubt it. At least, we know of no such instances.” HST March 6, 1844, page 37.13
If this is not sufficient, we will instance the South Baptist church, with which the editor of the Secretary is more intimately connected. It is an extract from a letter of a member excommunicated from that church. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.14
We are cast out of our churches in consequence of believing the whole word of God, and acting accordingly. Thirteen members were cut off from the south Baptist church in this city a short time since. Some others are not yet determined upon; they must yield to that power spoken of in Daniel, or share the same fate with the rest of the Millerites, as we are enrolled on their church book. This appears to be the most prominent charge they had against us. They could not agree among themselves for a while, what other charges to make; see Acts 25:26, 27. They finally came together again at the close of two weeks, and were not only prepared to cast out the poor ignorant creatures as one of their number styled us; but the pastor of that church in his preparatory prayer, said, “O Father, be with us by thy Spirit, and let us be very solemn, as we are about to act on business of importance; verify thy promise unto thy children to night; what they loose on earth, do thou loose in heaven; and what they bind on earth, do thou bind in heaven.” O how different were the sentiments of my heart. I had no desire that they should be cast out of heaven; but my prayer was, Father forgive them, for they know not what they do, and have mercy upon them, and receive them into heaven. My heart wept over them; I pitied their condition; I would have bathed their feet with my tears, if thus they might see the error of their ways, and know in this their day the things that belong to their peace; for soon, I fear they will be hid from their eyes, this I could not do, for I was not permitted to speak, unless I wished to make my confession, and come back; then they would be very happy to hear me; what, pray me out of heaven, and in again, in one evening! Insult upon reproach! HST March 6, 1844, page 37.15
I fear, with a large majority of this highly favored city, it will be too late for the marriage preparation of the Lamb. Our churches remain willingly ignorant, and this truly is painful. Can there anything more be done for Hartford, that has not been done? Will the Lord direct that nothing may be left undone. Brother Collins is still laboring in this city, and doing much good. Our meetings are very interesting. God is with us of a truth. Several have, we trust, been converted to God, and say, “It is better to suffer affliction with the people of God. than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.16
R. L. W.
We close this by the following appropriate extract from a late number of the Secretary:— HST March 6, 1844, page 37.17
“In these days, men of all parties have begun to learn the Christian lesson, that the true disciple is always to be found in the down-trodden party, and religious intolerance has been driven to make its few, last, feeble demonstrations, under various disguises.” HST March 6, 1844, page 37.18
Both Sides
As candid and rational beings, it becomes us to weigh well all the arguments which can be adduced against the immediate coming of Christ; for if any valid objections could be urged, their full weight are to be taken into the consideration of this question. It is well known that one great reason of our confidence in the evidence by which our views are sustained, is the absence of sound argument against us; and to the ease with which all arguments, thus far adduced, have been shown to be fallacious. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.19
It will be remembered, that in the first number of this volume, Mr. Miller called upon any in the respective churches to show why we are cast off as heretics? referring to those who have been cut off and excommunicated, or denied their just rights for their Advent faith. In reply to this call, Rev. Geo. Bush, Prof. of Hebrew and Oriental Literature, in the New York City University, by way of response, has given his reasons for rejecting the doctrine.—How far that is a reason for rejecting those who embrace the doctrine, or replying to the call from Mr. Miller, our readers must judge. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.20
Prof. Bush has been one of our most fair, candid and respectful opponents; and as his views, denying that the world will ever end, or that Christ will ever personally come—are what the church is fast embracing, we give them for the purpose of showing on how broken a reed men can rely in questions of such awful magnitude. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.21
PROF. BUSH TO WM. MILLER
Dear Sir:—In casting my eyes over the last number of the “Advent Herald,” (late “Signs of the Times.”) I noticed a letter under your signature headed, “An Address to the Believers in Christ, of all Denominations,” and containing an earnest protest against the virulent denunciations from the pulpit and the press, to which the advocates of your peculiar views of prophecy have been subjected. You demand a statement of the grounds on which you, and those holding your views, are virtually excluded from the pale of Christian fellowship, and ask whether it is to be charged upon you as a crime or a heresy, that you believe the prophecies of the Old and New Testament to be true, and that you think you understand them, and are endeavoring to govern yourselves accordingly. You enquire, moreover, whether you are to be treated as heretics because you believe Christ will come this year, when he has, himself, commanded all “to watch;” and the duty of watching necessarily implies the “expectation of the object for which we watch.” The letter before the teems with various other queries of a similar strain, carrying with them a burden of serious remonstrance against the course generally pursued, as you allege, by the mass of the christian community towards yourself, and those who sympathise with your prophetic theories. HST March 6, 1844, page 37.22
Now for myself, while I am ready to admit that you are entitled to a fair and argumentative consideration of what is seriously and argumentatively proposed on the authority of the divine oracles, yet I cannot conceive that you have any just cause for wonder, even if the reception of your doctrines has been as uncourteous as you contend. You will scarcely deny that there has been no small measure of denunciation on the other side, which has had little tendency to conciliate, especially as it has often gone on the ground of charging that a dissent from your views was identical with a total neglect or utter ignorance of the whole subject of prophcy. I will not here adduce specimens of the language which I have often seen employed in Second Advent publications, (of which I have been a pretty diligent reader,) and some even from your own pen, which certainly dealt in very wholesale condemnation of the rejecters of your opinions. I repeat, then, that although it is very possible that your interpretations may not have received all the respectful intention which they deserve, yet the fact that they have been somewhat severely treated, does not present a problem very difficult to be solved. HST March 6, 1844, page 38.1
Still I am not aware, notwithstanding all the provocation of which they have been conscious, to hard speech, that the evangelical churches in our land, have regarded your peculiar views so much in the light of a dangerous heresy, as of an unhappy delusion. They have not, I believe, felt called upon to form any definite judgment as to the degree in which your sentiments were consistent or inconsistent with an honest and cordial belief in the leading doctrines of the Gospel. But they have been satisfied that the confidence with which they have been broached, rested upon no adequate basis of sound opposition, and therefore they could nor be insensible to the pernicious effects arising from a system that claims to speak with infallible certainty upon points which the soberest minds are compelled to regard as doubtful. Here, I apprehend, is the true source of that decided rejection of your sentiments, of which you speak, as if it were a breach of Christian Charity, and a hating without a cause. The usual style in which that class of tenets usually denominated “Millerism”—(I do not use the term opprobiously)—is promulgated is such as can only be warranted by an absolute assurance of their truth. The evidence upon which such assurance can be built is, to thousands of reflecting minds wanting; and that not because they have not looked for it, but because they have looked for it and cannot find it. This would appear to be in your view an assertion wholly incredible; nevertheless I may venture to assure you it is true. The subject of prophecy has not been altogether left out of the range of biblical study by either clergymen or laymen of the present day, and however strange the intimation may sound in your ears, yet I confidently affirm, there is such a thing as an intelligent conviction of the entire erroneousness of some of the grand features of your mode of interpreting the scriptures. HST March 6, 1844, page 38.2
Some of the grounds of this conviction I now proceed, in compliance with your call, to state. But I beg it to be observed that I do not presume to speak in the name, or as the organ of any body of Christians. I think it not unlikely, indeed, that a considerable portion of them may find their own sentiments accurately represented in mine; but I still address you on my own personal responsibility. The circumstances under which, I write, warrant the confidence that the same columns which are open to your letter, will not be refused to mine. I think you have made a reasonable demand, and as far as in me lies, I am willing to respond to it. I do not write, however, for the sake of controversy, nor do I pledge myself to notice any comments that may be made by yourself or others on my communication. HST March 6, 1844, page 38.3
As I have no disposition to question the entire sincerity of your convictions on the points at issue, so you will not, I presume, refuse to reciprocate the acknowledgement in regard to those who differ from the views that you yourself entertain. HST March 6, 1844, page 38.4
Conceding, then, all you can desire on the score of motive, and free from any wish to load your sentiments with gratuitous opprobrium, I may be allowed to state, in all candor, the true grounds which have doubtless prevailed with multitudes in their most decided rejection of the cardinal tenets of your belief. That this emphatic dissent has been accompanied with a prejudice, strong in proportion to their conviction of the error of your position, is no doubt true; but I think I may confidently affirm that this prejudice is not founded:— HST March 6, 1844, page 38.5
1. Upon your high estimate and diligent investigation of the Prophetic Scriptures. We are commanded to give heed to the “sure word of prophecy, as to a lamp that shineth in a dark place,” and the devout study of this part of the divine oracles is to be regarded rather as a matter of commendation than of censure. (Note 1.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.6
2. Neither is it to be objected, as I conceive, to yourself or your friends, that you have devoted much time and attention to the study of the chronology of prophecy, and have labored much to determine the commencing and closing dates of its great periods. If these periods are actually given by the Holy Ghost in the prophetic books, it was doubtless with the design that they should be studied, and probably, in the end, fully understood; and no man is to be charged with presumptuous folly who reverently makes the attempt to do this. On this point, I have myself no charges to bring against you. Nay, I am even ready to go so far as to say, that I do not conceive your errors on the subject of chronology to be at all of a serious nature, or in fact to be very wide of the truth. In taking a day as the prophetical term for a year, I believe you are sustained by the soundest exegesis, as well as fortified by the high names of Mede, Sir I. Newton, Bishop Newton, Kirby, Scott, Keith, and a host of others who have long since come to substantially your conclusions on this head. They all agree that the leading periods mentioned by Daniel and John, do actually expire about this age of the world, and it would be a strange logic that would convict you of heresy for holding in effect the same views which stand forth so prominent in the notices of these eminent divines. Your error, as I apprehend, lies in another direction than your chronology; not, however, that I am prepared to admit all the details of your calculations, but, in general, your results in this field of inquiry do not strike me so far out of the way as to effect any of the great interests of truth or duty. (Note 2.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.7
3. Your earnest and impassioned exhortations to the duty of “watchfulness,” are, moreover, no matter of objection, in themselves considered, to the scheme which you advocate. The duty may indeed be urged on such grounds, from such motives, and in such relations, as shall give it entirely another aspect, and one that sober-minded christians might deem to have an injurious tendency, and I am not sure that your inculcations may not be of this character; but I would still say that there is enough in the common views of pious men to warrant a peculiar urgency on this score, though they might essentially differ from me in regard to “the object for which they watch” This hour of death is certainly to all intents and purposes a coming of Christ to the individual soul, even though we should grant that this is not the only event indicated by the term; and this is a very proper object of watchfulness.(Note 3.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.8
Admitting then that there is nothing censurable in these features of your scheme, what are the grounds on which it encounters the rejection and opposition of so large a portion of intelligent christians? On this head it is perhaps desirable that extensive portions of the community who are in the habit of hearing and reading on but one side of the question should be more fully informed. I answer:— HST March 6, 1844, page 38.9
1. Because your views strike them as intrinsically irrational and incredible. In saying this, I am well aware that I am not planting myself upon ground which will bear the whole weight of my argument. It is not Scriptural ground; and I am willing you should give it no more weight than you probably will. I am far from holding that that which is merely rational is to be regarded as a test of that which is scriptural, but contending as I do that the speedy destruction of the world is unscriptural, I am at liberty to plead also that a prior objection weighs against it by reason of its being unreasonable. It is impossible for us to resist the conviction that the creator of the world had an end in bringing it into existence worthy of his infinite wisdom. The analogy of all the divine procedures teaches us that in his administration the means are usually proportioned to the end, and the preparation to the accomplishment. It is directly contrary to this analogy to suppose that our terraqueous globe is to come to an end just as it begins to be available for the main purposes for which it was created. We learn from science that it has existed for a long period, and passed through many changes of a formative character, that it might be fitted up as a residence for man. Even the space of six thousand years bears scarcely any proportion to the prior periods of its existence, and it is not more than half peopled at the present moment. And as to the developement of human destiny, the instinctive impression is, that it is in mid career. To suppose then that the earth is now upon the eve of dissolution, is to attribute to its Divine Architect a greater luck of wisdom than any one would recognize in a human artist who should spend fifty or a hundred years in erecting a munificent stage for a dramatic performance which should last but half an hour. I must of course admit that every rational prepossession of this kind is to give way to the express declarations of holy writ to the contrary, provided they exist, but in the belief of the mass of christians they do not exist. Consequently they do not believe your theory. (Note 4.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.10
2. The sentiments you have broached strike at the root of all missionary efforts for the conversion of the world. To adopt them is to renounce that system of means for compassing the great end, which they firmly believe God himself has instituted, and which they do not believe he would have commanded, if he foresaw and foreordered that they should be abortive. (Note 5.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.11
3. The evidence which you have professed to bring of the truth and soundness of your interpretations has failed to satisfy the public mind. Your own impression probably is, that that evidence has not been fairly and candidly weighed. This, in some quarters, may have been the case. But I think I hazard nothing in saying that your views have been extensively subjected to a rigid examination, by minds competent to the task, and that they have found them built upon fallacious principles of interpretation. In what particular respects this holds good, I shall presently state. HST March 6, 1844, page 38.12
4. Men of sober and reflecting temperament are revolted by the tone of absolute assurance in which yourself and your associates are in the habit of speaking of the meaning of many passages in the Scriptures, which, after their most dilligent researches, they are constrained to regard as at least of doubtful import. Though it is possible they may not be able positively to deny the sense which you put upon them, yet neither are they prepared to admit it, much less to receive and proclaim it with that unqualified confidence which seems to be the rule with all your adherents. It cannot be expected that intelligent men will receive any interpretation which is not sustained by the original. Your expositions rest mainly upon the reading of the English text of the Scriptures. (Note 6.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.13
To show how inadequate are your teachings to produce conviction on some of the leading points of your theory, I will adduce a few instances. The phrase “end of the world,” you seem invariably to understand as implying the physical destruction of the Globe. Now every scholar knows that the Greek phrase is simply “the consummation of the age,” and no man is prepared to give a satisfactory solution of the meaning of the words who does not unfold the true sense which was attached to them in the minds of the disciples, when they proposed to our Lord the question, “What shall be the sign of thy coming and of the consummation of the age?” It has never yet been proved that the language has the least allusion to the physical termination of the globe which we inhabit. (Note 7.) HST March 6, 1844, page 38.14
Again: you make much of a great period of “seven times,” built upon Leviticus 26:18—“And if ye will not for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you seven times more for your sins.” This you will understand to be the prophetical designation of a period of 2520 years—taking a day for a year—during which the Jews are to be punished for their rebellion. Now the fact is, the original affords no warrant whatever for the implication of a term of time, whether long or short, in the words. It is simply an intimation of degree; I will punish you with a seven-fold severity. It is precisely such a phraseology as we employ when we say to-day is seven times hotter or colder than yesterday. The Hebrew word is in fact the same, with the slight difference of gender, with that occurring Daniel 3:19, when Nebuchadnezzar commands that the furnace should be heated “one seven times hotter than it was wont to be.” You might just as well found your theory of a period of time upon one of these passages as upon the other. Is he to be acknowledged an adequate expounder of prophecy who is ignorant of this usage? HST March 6, 1844, page 38.15
I have already admitted that there are passages where a day is the symbolical term for a year, but the difficulty here is, that there is not the remotest inference to time in any sense. (Note 8) HST March 6, 1844, page 39.1
To be continued.
NOTES ON THE FOREGOING
As the argument presented in this communication is all that can affect the question, we shall pass over that which is only the mere opinion of the writer.—The manner of the reception or rejection of Mr. Miller’s views by the pulpit and press, is familiar to all our readers. We would therefore remark on his reasonings by appending a few notes. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.2
(1) Notwithstanding the Scriptures render it imperative that we search, and give heed to them, yet Mr. Miller has been more assailed for believing that by a devout study of them, aided by the Holy Spirit, he could understand them, than, for almost any other act. He has been told that they were not to be understood; that he should not pry into the hidden mysteries contained in the Word; that the secret things belong unto the Lord, and not to man; that no man can ever know; that he should ask his Bishop, and not pretend to decide on the meaning himself; and finally that it cannot be understood without a knowledge of the original. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.3
(2) It will be seen that it is admitted that the prophecies are to be fully understood. This, then, will do away with the argument that we can never know any thing respecting the various events predicted, or the times of their fulfillment. It will also be remarked that there is here no dispute with Mr. Miller respecting the termination of the prophetic periods He admits that Mr. Miller’s chronology is not very wide of the truth, and that he is sustained by the most eminent divines in the conclusion, that those periods do actually terminate about this age of the world. The question is therefore narrowed down to the nature of the events which are thus to transpire. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.4
(3) It will be seen that the disciples of our Lord did not look upon the event of Christ’s coming, as any evidence of a man’s death, but the reverse.—In John 21:21-23, when Peter inquired of the Master what John should do, and our Savior replied, “If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee,” the disciples at once reported that John “should not die.” They took it for granted that if he tarried till the Lord should come, he would live forever. They did not look forward to their death as the coming of Christ, but to the time when death should have no more dominion over them. Our Savior, however, did not say John should tarry till he came, or should not die, “but if will that he tarry,” etc. John did live till after the destruction of Jerusalem, and then died. Our Savior did not then come. Again, had the disciples understood our Savior as saying that John might live till he died, they would not have supposed he would never die! HST March 6, 1844, page 39.5
(4) It seems, then, that the first great argument for rejecting Mr. Miller’s view of the event is, that it is irrational; but as it is admitted that if Scripture for it exists, this argument must give way, we shall not remark upon it as we otherwise should.—We fully, believe, however, that the restoration of this earth to its Eden state is the only one that can be reconciled with reason. If this earth was to cease to exist with the removal of the curse, the argument of the end of its creation being thus lost, would have more force. But when we contemplate, that in the removal of the curse, and its restoration to its Eden state, fitted for the eternal abode of the Saints, an end is attained worthy of its creation, and for which the 6000 long years of probation have only been an appropriate preparation; there is not only seen no luck of wisdom on the part of its “Divine Architect.” but all other ends, where sin and crime and death will continue, strike our minds as thus reflecting, in proportion as the present dispensation is inferior to the glory which will follow. It certainly cannot be argued that the New Earth, as presented in the language of Scripture, is a view inferior to that where death will eternally reign. And therefore it will be necessary for Prof. Bush to refute his own argument on that point, or admit it as making against himself! HST March 6, 1844, page 39.6
(5) We cannot see the force of this objection;—the salvation of souls would be as great a motive, and the commands to go into all the world to preach the gospel to every creature, and to occupy till the Lord come, would be just as binding. That it does not strike at the root of such operations, but rather accolerates them, has been shown in the more energetic and devoted efforts, which have been made by the believers of this view, in the spread of truth. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.7
(6) If the prophecy is to be “fully understood,” men ought to be able either to admit or reject any doctrine presented, purporting to be based on a thus saith the Lord. And men, who are not prepared to deny that Mr Miller’s view is correct, certainly should not reject him for heresy in so believing. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.8
(7) Had the Prof. been such a “pretty dilligent reader” of the “Advent publications,” as he supposes he has been. he could hardly have failed to notice, that the distinction between the world and earth has been fully observed and presented. In No. 26 of the Second Advent Library, pp. 12—14 this distinction is fully pointed out, and it is shown to be the end of the age; nor is it contended that it implies “the physical destruction of the globe,” on the contrary, it is contended that the aionos or age extends to the renovation of the earth. That this age extends to that period, was there argued from the use which our Savior in other places made of the same word, rendered world, the principle of which, was Luke 20:33-37, where it is said the children of this age marry and are given in marriage, but in the ace to come do neither, but are equal to the angels, being the children of God and of the resurrection. In view of that explanation, the disciples asked our Savior, what should be the sign of his coming, and end of the age, to the resurrection. We think there was injustice, but not designedly in this allusion. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.9
(8) It is no new thing to hear denied that this prediction has reference to time, and yet the argument that it does, is neither peculiar to, or original with Mr. Miller. His view of it is also sustained by those whose knowledge of the original would not be questioned. The more we examine the argument for this period, the more convinced we are of its importance; we have never yet seen an attempt to refute the whole of the argument. But as the time is not a point at issue, we will not dwell here. We would merely inquire if “the slight difference of gender” is not in this case a material difference? HST March 6, 1844, page 39.10
Mr. Miller at Washington
Bro. Bliss:—We are now in the capitol of our beloved country, and have given, four or five lectures, on the glorious and all-absorbing theme of the Supreme Kingdom of the Messiah, soon to be established in all the earth. True, our rulers and political men are not yet ready to give up their power, but they are as much engaged in their political squabbles for the next Presidency, as if their little “brief authority,” were to last forever. But, by the help of God’s Word, the Holy Spirit, and the history of past ages, I will show them that an important revolution will take place before long, which will supersede the necessity of choosing a President by ballot; for the King of Kings will soon be inaugurated into the Chair of State, and that too, by acclamation, when all dominions shall serve and obey him. I know the pride and bigotry of some of the most dignified part (as they would be called) of our legislative council, standing, as they do, upon their own dignity, will not give us a candid hearing. Yet I do hope that some of them will hear, be convinced, and prepare to meet in the general assembly, the church of the first-born in Heaven. Yet, from past experience, and the Word of God, we have but little expectation that many of the rulers will believe in this King Jesus, or receive honor from him, for how can they be servants of God, while they seek honor one of another. We have a duty to do to them, as well as others. They have souls, and can only be saved in the same manner as the most degraded menial in all the land: blood of high birth, riches, nor worldly honors, will ever introduce them into the court of the King of Kings. They must become humble and docile as a little child, or they can never enter the Kingdom of God. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.11
This place is being shaken. The common sense people who hear, go away convinced of the truth of our exposition of God’s blessed book, and we have some advocates in every public place, even in the halls of justice, and some in the Legislative councils. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.12
Bro. Himes is scattering his papers and his tracts among them by thousands, and a more hungry class of anxious inquirers I never saw. They throng us constantly for papers, books or tracts, for information on this important subject, “end of the world.” They send in from the vicinity, and from old Virginia, for papers or lectures. The one-hundredth part of their requests can never be complied with, unless God raise up more laborers to enter the field. I must say, although I am astonished while I say it, never have I been listened to with so deep a feeling, with such intense interest for hours; and never have the lectures done apparently so much in convincing the hearers of the truth of the doctrine we advocate, as on this tour; of Boston you know; in New-York it was more so than in your city; in Philadelphia, we obtained a most glorious victory through the truth and grace of God, And now in the capital of our country, the prospect is fair, yes, very fair; we shall triumph beyond our expectation. How can we account for this, while our opponents are shouting victory, because our time has run out, as they say. We are joined by scores and hundreds of the most intelligent and pious people of God?. When the last trying moment has come, and our enemies supposed that the Advent cause would slumber in the tomb of by-gone days; behold from hill and dale, from village and hamlet, from city and country, from kingdoms and states, from continents and isles, a redoubled shout is heard, on! on!! To victory. Ah, this is God’s doings, and marvellous in our eyes. All who are believers in this glorious doctrine, now, have girded on their armour for victory or death. If Christ comes, as we expect, we will sing the song of victory soon; if not, we will watch, and pray, and preach until he comes, for soon our time, and all prophetic days, will have been filled, and from the indications God is giving, I am fully satisfied God will give the victory to those who hold on by faith. The great men of the land begin to tremble, and priests begin to quail. They see their day is going by when they can rule the multitude, and now they cry for charity, when they see their flocks are leaving them by scores. They now want we should have charity! Oh charity, for what? Will they not remember how they have scoffed, and jeered, and called us all the names that their wicked hearts could invent, and spurned us from them, as though we were too vile to live, too base to be associates with them, in their churches., And now they claim charity of us, whom they have despised as they do the dust of the street, on which they tread. Of what hypocrisy men will be guilty, when they find themselves nailed to the wall? What have been our crimes? We are looking for Christ, this is our offence; then let me be an offender while I live; or, until he, the Savior, shall come. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.13
The clergy in this city, many of them, keep aloof from us, and stand on their dignity, and are “crying peace and safety, saying in their hearts, my Lord delayeth his coming.” But the people are waking up, and I hope they may wake up their slumbering watchmen. I remain, as ever yours, looking for the blessed hope: Wm. Miller. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.14
Note.—We are now at the Oppollo, giving three lectures a day to good audiences. Bro. Miller speaks morning and afternoon, and Bro. Litch in the evening. I shall give an account in my next. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.15
J. V. Himes.
Washington, Feb. 28, 1844.
The Witness of the Spirit in the Work of Sanctification—with a Scriptural view of the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. By N. Hervey. Second Edition enlarged. To which is added a Letter from F. G. Brown, written expressly for this work. Also the beautiful hymn with the notes—entitled “A Pilgrim and a Stranger.” 96 pages. Single, 10 cents. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.16
The above is for sale at this office. Also at Providence, at the Second Advent depot, in the Arcade—and at our depots generally. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.17
We commend this work to enquirers on the subject of entire sanctification, as among the best which has appeared on this important subject. HST March 6, 1844, page 39.18
We make a fews extracts from Bro Brown’s letter:— HST March 6, 1844, page 39.19
My attention was not called to the subject again, until about-one year since, when, as you know, God, in his infinite condescension to my soul, poured upon me copious influences of his Spirit, so that I could say—I am enveloped in God—I am overwhelmed in the ocean of his love! From that moment passages in the experiences of certain Christians, that had always sounded strange to my ear, were written on my heart, incorporated into my own experience, and became like ravishing music to every chord of my soul. I now fully, understood the apostle, when he said, “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world” “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” I could now pray Paul’s prayer, recorded in Ephesians 3:14-19:—“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and heighth; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” My experience was not unlike that of Mrs. E----, mentioned on page 51 of your little book. At first I could hardly be persuaded that any living mortal was standing with me on ground so choice, so elevated so near the very gates of bliss: I was delightfully surprised, however, to find that the grace of God was not restricted to one poor creature of earth alone, but that multitudes of almost every order of Christians had qualled from the same pure fountain, and been admitted into the glories of the same inner temple. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.1
Holiness makes the coming of our Lord desirable; which desire I must think but few of the professed disciples of Christ entertain. Both the doctrine of Christ’s appearing and of sanctification are all important. I love the first—I love the last. To the praise of God’s grace, and with deep humility in view of my insignificance and great unworthiness, I am happy to say, that I believe that I understand fully and by a blessed experience all of the terms which are employed for the purpose of representing the doctrine of sanctification. I believe in it as a prominent doctrine of the Bible, and as an experience to which hundreds of Christians can testify. I am glad that so much is said and written on it, even aside from its application to the Advent. I am happy to find you interested in it. I trust that in giving the public the view which you believe the Scriptures take of this doctrine, you have been prompted by a fervent desire to point out the way by which a holy character and life may be acquired, as preparatory to the speedy coming of the Lord. You appear to have given rather a clear and scriptural view of the means, fruits, etc. of sanctification. Perhaps it hardly could be expected that our views on this great subject should harmonize in every particular. Nevertheless, it strikes me that your book is calculated to call attention to the doctrine of sanctification. You have collected together no little light, by which the inquirer may be guided on his way to the summit of holiness. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.2
The doctrine of Holiness, even by some who profess to enjoy it, has not been clearly, perceived. I have heard of one individual, at least, who contended, probably, from their understanding of the apostles’s language—“And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit, and soul, and body, be preserved blameless, unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”—that the members of the body—this very flesh of ours—must be made holy in the same sense that the heart is. You have correctly shown the different senses in which sanctification is used in the Scriptures; as found commencing on page 8, in the sense of the consecration of our physical and rational powers to God, and in the sense of the purification of the heart. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.3
Notice. The Conference advertised to be held in Nashua on the second Thursday of this month, is changed to the first Thursday, (March 6th) as a prior notice had been given to some to that effect. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.4
The state of the cause in Boston is very encouraging. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.5
“The Prayer of Faith shall save the Sick.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.6
We learn that Bro. F. G. Brown is quite sick at New Ipswich. Bro. L. Hersey, of this city, is also confined to his room with sickness. Bro. N. Southard’s health, we learn, is being restored. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.7
NEW PUBLICATIONS
“The Herald of the Bridegroom,” by A. Hale. 61 cts. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.8
This, work, which we noticed a short time since, is well adapted for the present crisis. In it are condensed the plagues that await the enemies of the King Eternal. Also, the appearing of our Lord to gather his saints, is shown to be the next event before us, by a Scriptural exhibition of the order of the events from the fall of papacy down to the establishment of the everlasting kingdom. We have now on hand another edition, so that those who have been unable to obtain a supply, can now be accommodated. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.9
“The Age to Come.” Price 121 cts. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.10
This is an elaborate work, by Lewis C. Gunn, of Philadelphia, in which is shown, that the present organization of matter called earth, in to be destroyed by fire at the end of this age or dispensation; and that, before the event, Christians may know about the time when it will occur. The various objections which are usually urged against these conclusions, are considered, and ably refuted. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.11
“Words of Warning.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.12
We have, the past week, issued another edition of one hundred thousand of these little winged messengers, so that any can now be supplied who have been disappointed in not obtaining them. The friends, thus far, have shown a disposition to scatter them like leaves of the forest. In Boston and many other places, they have been left at every door. Price 3 cts. a sheet, 18 on a sheet; or 2 cts. per dozen, 12 1-2 cts per hundred, and $1 per thousand. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.13
“Prepare to meet thy God.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.14
We have a still further supply of this excellent sheet, by L. Hersey. 37 1-2 cts per hundred. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.15
Neology. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.16
In about a week, if time continue, we expect a work by Prof Whiting, on Neology, will be ready for delivery. It traces, in a masterly manner, its rise and progress, and show how the churches, in following its teachings, have departed from the faith once delivered to the saints. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.17
“The Southern Midnight Cry.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.18
We have received the first number of this paper, issued at Washington City, D. C. After one more number, it is to be published at Baltimore, Md. as the wants of the cause may demand. The address of the paper will be, “J. Litch, Baltimore, Md. Second Advent Depot south west corner of North and Fayette Sis. up stairs.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.19
Review of Prof. Chase’s Remarks HST March 6, 1844, page 40.20
On the Book of Daniel, by L. Hersey. This is being published in a pamphlet form, and will soon be out. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.21
Correspondence
New Boston, N. H. BR. N. Trult writes:—“The Advent hand in this place stand firm in the faith that Christ will come this Jewish year. The work of grace is deepening in the heart, and we are all rejoicing in the blessed hope.” He says, “Tell brother Brown, if be can come to this place soon, we should be glad to see him. There seems to be a door open.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.22
Albany N. Y.—Sister G. S. Miles writes very encouraging of the state of things there. The cause there was never more prosperous. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.23
Schenectady, N. Y. We learn that the leaven is working there. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.24
Newport, Me. Bro. Wm. H Ireland writes:—“Brother Himes, I wish to say through you, to my friends in the Advent cause, that I am still in the belief of seeing our blessed Lord between this and April next. I have been travelling east this winter, as far as the River St. Johns, and the Aroostook River; and I have seen the saints quickened and backsliders reclaimed, and scores, who had but a partial hope, came out boldly on the Lord’s side, and are now rejoicing in the hope of soon enjoying the full fruition of God’s love, in the everlasting kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our prayer is, Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly. O, my dear brethren, see to it that your lamps are trimmed, and your lights burning. Scoffers are multiplying, everything around indicates the immediate coming of the blessed Lord. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.25
Waterloo, Canada. Bro. H. A. Garlick writes,—“The brethren are stong in the faith, and in looking for their coming Savior, and are determined to wait and watch until he shall appear. One good sister has recently died in this village, strong in the faith that Christ will come this year. O that all his professed followers may be fully prepared to meet him.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.26
West Hartford, Vt. Bro. N. Dutton writes,—“The Lord is with us; give all the glory to his name.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.27
Hartford, Cr. Bro. D Crary writes,—“Most of the believers in the speedy coming of Christ are now disconnected from their respective churches. Seventeen were read out of the Methodist church last Sabbath. We have good meetings at the hall, well attended. We want some one at this time very much, to come and help us. The churches are all as cold as an ice-house. I am told the work is going on well at Middletown.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.28
Low Hampton, N. Y. Bro. Wm. S. Miller writes,—“The Advent cause is firm as ever, and more so as the time draw, nigh.” HST March 6, 1844, page 40.29
Vergennes, Vt. Br. C. Wines writes,—“With respect to the cause we advocate, I would just say, in this place and vicinity, it is onward; there is no looking back, by true believers. There seems in be an awaking up to the subject, especially among those that seem to have got their feet on the Rock. And as they near the heavenly inheritance, the world receder, fulfilling in some respect the saying, he that has this hope purifieth himself even as he is pure. We have the labors of brother Henry Allen at present, and expect he will remain in this region until the Lord come. He appears strong in the faith, and full of the Holy Ghost. We purpose holding in this and some three or four adjoining towns, a Conference alternately, of one or more days’ continuance, as the Spirit may dictate, or circumstances require. Pray for us. And that we may soon meet to part no more, is the prayer of your friend in that blessed hope. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.30
West Wrentham, Ms.—Bro. J. D. Emerson writes: That through the labors of Rev. J. White, a goodly number were converted to faith. Bro. White was invited there by the Baptist church and pastor The pastor then expressed himself a convert; but has now turned bitterly against the speedy advent of the Lord. Bro. Emerson mid wife, for continuing steadfast in the faith, have been ex-communicated from the church: the charges were, for forsaking our usual meetings and adhering to anti-scriptural doctrines, such as falling from grace, open communion, etc,” the etc. probably being the doctrine of the Advent. Bro. E. adds, there are a number yet, who hold on to the faith once delivered to the saints. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.31
Carroll, N. H. Bro. John Howe writes:—There are a few Second Advent brethren in this place, who are striving to be ready; but we feel it important to keep humble and watch against every temptation. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.32
Letters received to March 2, 1844
Horace Newton by C Tarbell $ 1,50; J V Himes pm Lynchburg, Va; Wm. H Ireland by pm $1; C E Follunsbee, by pm $1; Wm Williams, by pm $1; E L Philbrick by pm $1; Bible Reader by pm $5, we wish to know to whom it is to be credited, as we have no such name on our books; A Arnold by pm $1; S Lassal by pm $1; A Gilchrist by pm $1; Rosana Maines by pm $1; Ralph Rice by pm 50 cts; Ithamer Kenney by pm $1; pm Seaville Me; O B Fenner $1; J E Hazen by pm $1; B Schemerhorn by pm $; Thadrus Hubbel by pm $1, S S Moulton by pm $1; have no No. 11 Bible Examiner on hand; pm Newbury Vt, very well; H Littlefield by pm $3; David Ellsworth by pm $1; D Hart, Wm A Curtis and Mrs Mary Lewis, $1 each by pm; John Boutwell by pm $1; A Parmalee by pm $1; Lyman Whittier $1; pm Carliste Pa; Ira Marcial by pm $1; W F Falmestak & M Barringer, 50 cts each; C Newton by pm 50 cts; G Higgins by pm $1; pm Frankfort Vt; Nathan Cass by pm $1; Nathan Crosby by pm $1; E Davis by pm $5; Wm Rogers $15; Francis Whitton; D M Trickey by ex. $4, 50; J Nichols by pm $1, pays to end of vol 7, we send the paper regularly; Geo. Wheelwright by pm $1; J Turner; Wm Rogers; E Arnold by pm $2; Charles Ramsdell $4; John Curtis $2; S Hawley, Jr; E Clemens; E Brisbin by pm $4; S Joy jr by pm $1; John Rickets by pm $1 12; Mrs Sarah H Brown; John Johnson and Vasta Wheeler by pm $1 each; pm Warsaw N Y $2 for sundries; H Bush, A Bush, and F Lord $1 each by pm; L L Tuttle and A Y Culver by pm 50 cts each; E Mack with MSS; pm Mason N H; James Alexander by pm $1; Edward Fitts by pm $1; S V Williamson; Mrs E Pame by pm $1; Andrew Tucker by pm $1; J Chandler $1; L F Sikes; J Morse $1; S Newcomb by pm $1; pm Brandon Vt; J L Couch by pm $1; Rev S Kellogg by pm $1; Horatio Graves by pm 1; John knight by pm $1; pm E Landaff; Robinson Jones by pm $1; W F A Luce; E Dunham; E Walker $3; Sally Bliss; L S Fuller; G T Stacy $5 for himself and $1 for J Taylor; F Gale by pm $1; pm Chestertown Md; S S Brewer; J M Thornbury by pm $1; A Merrill by pm $1; pm Oak Grove S C; W T Blake by pm $1; H Hacking $2; J Roberts; J. Weston; J V Himes; Wm Miller; Mrs A Winch by pm $1; W A Palmer by pm $1; D M Clough by pm $1, pm Richmond Vt; J Pearson by ex. $31; L Tarbell by pm 2; Geo S Worrall by pm $1; pm Plymouth Ms; Wm Luther by pm 1; C Beans by pm $20; pm Sterling Pa; C P Calkins by pm $5; A friend in Ohio Dft $33 by pm; J Whittemore; R Woodcock by pm $2; S I Hart $2; pm Mercer Me; Wm Small by pm $1; E Bradley $1 by A Warfield; C Hersey; A Bliss by pm $1; F Benden by pm $2; G Brown by pm $1, pays to end of vol 7, one dollar was received in December; S Bass by pm $1; S Fitts by pm $4; pm Hartford Ct; T Sanborn $7; F G Brown; G S Miles.. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.33
Packages Sent
J Lenfest. Hanover Mass; J Litch, Philadelphia, 41 Arcade; J V Himes 9 Spruce St New York; H Littlefield Oswego N Y; B Schemerhorn, Schenectada N Y; [?]bod E Hazen, Sutton N H; Rosana Maines, Dexter Me; C E Follunsbee New Castle Me; Charles Ramsdell, Nashua N H; Capt. L S Fuller, Tolland, Ct; E Davis pm East Washington N H; Joseph Turner. So Paris Me; Wm Rogers Hartford Ct; D M Trickey, Portsmouth, N H; E Brisbin, Champlain N Y; HST March 6, 1844, page 40.34
John Ricketts, Webster Ms; L F Sikes, Springfield, Ms; E Walker, West Becket Ms, J Roberts, Strafford Corner, N H: J Pearson, Portland Me; C P Calkins, Ballston Centre; J Nokes, Navy Yard, Washington D C; J Litch, Baltimore Md, C Beans, Burlington Vt; T Benden, Milfield, N H; J Aldridge; Sugar Hill, N H; T Cole, Lowell; Tho. Sanborn, Eaton. N H; S J Hart, Meriden, Ct; J Starkweather, Worcester, Ms. HST March 6, 1844, page 40.35