The Advent Herald, and Signs of the Times Reporter [Himes], vol. 7
March 13, 1844
Vol. VII. No. 6. Boston, Whole No. 150
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. 6. Boston, Wednesday, March 13, 1844. WHOLE NO. 150. HST March 13, 1844, page 41.1
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 13, 1844, page 41.2
Terms.—One Dollar per Volume, of 26 Numbers. Five Dollars for 6 Copies, Ten Dollars for 13 Copies. HST March 13, 1844, page 41.3
Dow & Jackson, Printers. HST March 13, 1844, page 41.4
A LITTLE WHILE
Lo! Jesus says, “A little while,
And I will come again,
Then I’ll receive you to myself,
And ye shall with me reign!
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.5
Fear not, my little suffering flock,
The kingdom shall be yours;
And every one shall dwell with me,
That to the end endures.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.6
Let not your hearts be troubled, soon
I will descend from heaven;
And then the mansions I’ve prepared
Shall to the blest be given.”
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.7
A little while! A little while!
O blessed Jesus, come!
Thy little flock are longing now
For thee to take them home!
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.8
We’re weary of the sin-cursed earth,
Laid up in judgment store;
We long to reach the better land,
Where sin will be no more.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.9
The “fleeting show,” aye, let it pass
Away like dreams of night—
For we’ve enduring riches stored
Above in realms of light.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.10
We long to have our Jesus come,
And take his rightful throne;
We long to have him call us home,
And claim us for his own.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.11
e. c. c. HST March 13, 1844, page 41.12
Rochester, 29th Feb. 1844. HST March 13, 1844, page 41.13
“WATCHMAN, WHAT OF THE NIGHT?”
Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night? The Watchman said, The morning cometh, and also the night: if ye will inquire, inquire ye: return, come.—Isaiah 21:11, 12. HST March 13, 1844, page 41.14
What of the night, O watchman? mark!
Look from thine high watch-tower;
The storm hangs low, the sky is dark,
Foes come at midnight hour.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.15
Watchman, what of the night? behold!
Earth’s kingdoms totter round;
And aw’ul signs have late foretold
The clang of war must sound.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.16
The Watchman saith, The day is nigh:
Inquire with earned heed;
Plain is the word of prophecy,
And all who run may read.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.17
The morning cometh. when the Sun
Of Righteousness shall rise,
His ransomed church, all joined in one,
To summon to the skies!
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.18
The night is coming, which will close
On all those faithless friends,
Who leagued are found with Jesus’ foes
When he from heaven descends.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.19
Then Oh return! backsliders, hear!
Inquire while yet ye may;
Oh search God’s word with holy fear,—
God’s Spirit points the way!
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.20
For blest are they, His Spirit says,
Who search the word revealed;
But searched without that Spirit’s aid
The mystery is sealed.
HST March 13, 1844, page 41.21
Both Sides,
PROF. BUSH TO WM. MILLER.
(Concluded.)
A similar arbitrary and groundless construction you have given of the phrase “after that,” in Daniel 8:1: “In the third year of the reign of King Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me Daniel, after that which appeared unto me at the first.” You interpret the words “after that,” to mean according to that similar to that, having the like import with that, than which nothing can be more baseless and fanciful. Not a particle of evidence can be adduced for such a sense. (Note 9.) HST March 13, 1844, page 41.22
Once more, in explaining the phrase Daniel 8:13: “Then shall the Sanctuary be cleansed,” you make it signify the final purification of the saints in the resurrection of their dead bodies, which is as remote from the truth, as the darkness of midnight from the light of noonday. It would be easy to specify a still larger number of instances where your explanations are equally at fault as in the preceding, but the above specimens will suffice to show the grounds which sensible people have for doubting your competency to be a safe guide in interpreting the prophecies (Note 10.) HST March 13, 1844, page 41.23
5. While I have no question that well-informed students of prophecy will admit that your calculation of times, with the above exception, is not materially erroneous, they will still, I believe, maintain that you have entirely mistaken the nature of the events which are to occur when those periods have expired. This is the head and front of your expository offending. You have assumed that the close of the 2300 days of Daniel, for instance, is also the close of the period of human probation—that it is the epoch of the visible and personal second coming of Christ—of the resurrection of the righteous dead—and of the dissolution of the present mundane system. All this I affirm to be gratuitously and groundlessly asserted. Admitting, as I readily do, that we have arrived at a momentous era of the world, and that the expiration of these periods is to introduce by gradual steps, a new order of things, intellectual, political and moral. I still peremptorily deny that the Scriptures, soundly interpreted, warrant the expectation of any such sudden and miraculous disruption of the existing order of things, as yourself, and those usually termed Adventists are in the habit of teaching. (Note 11.) HST March 13, 1844, page 41.24
The great event before the world is not its physical conflagration, but its moral regeneration: and for one I am happy to think that by your own limitation, the question is so soon to be put to the test of indisputable fact. The 23rd of March—if that is the time—will soon be upon us, and the truth or falsehood of one part, at least, of your scheme will then be decided. But even if years or centuries were yet to intervene, I should still be strong in my grand position, that you had mistaken the nature of the events. (Note 12) HST March 13, 1844, page 41.25
Although there is doubtless a sense in which Christ may be said to come, in connexion with the passing away of the Fourth Empire, and of the Ottoman power, and his kingdom to be illustriously established, yet that will be found to be a spiritual coming in the power of his gospel, in the ample outpouring of his spirit, and the glorious administration of his Providence.) (Note 13) This is the common and prevailing belief of Christendom, and I have no doubt the true one. I do not enter into the detailed exhibition of the proofs of this position, because nothing in the nature of the case can prove it to the mind of a Literalist but the fact itself. [Note 14] If you find that at the close of the present Jewish year, the sun, moon, and stars, and seven planets, hold on their course as usual, and continue thus to revolve as long as you and I, and all the present generation shall live to see them, you will, at least, admit an increasing probability that you have utterly erred in the construction put upon the language of the prophets. [Note 15.] Such is the dominant faith of all christian communities at this day, and to the tribunal of time, as the only arbiter they willingly refer its final decision. [Note 16.] HST March 13, 1844, page 41.26
But that you may not suppose that we are resting upon mere vague and traditional impressions in regard to this matter, let me briefly point you to some of the considerations by which our belief is sustained. In setting before us the wasting away of the fourth beast, or of the fourth great empire, (the Roman) the interpreting angel says to Daniel, “And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.”—Now, according to your theory, the burning up of the world—the Second Advent, and the resurrection of the Saints is to intervene between the passing away of the Roman Empire, and the establishment of the Kingdom of the saints. Now we say that if this be so, it is incredible that the prophecy should be so framed, as not to make the slightest allusion to such a stupendous occurrence. The plain import of the passage is, that the one power should be gradually abolished, and the other gradually introduced. [Note 17.] HST March 13, 1844, page 41.27
But again, upon your view, the risen righteous are to inherit the earth in their resurrection bodies. But Paul tells us that those bodies are to be spiritual, and how can spiritual bodies inhabit a material globe? [Note 18.] You will doubtless reply, that it is of no consequence whether we can either prove the possibility, or explain the manner of the fact, provided God has affirmed that so it shall be. True; but I deny that he has affirmed any such thing. I find nothing from Genesis to Revelations that incontestably teaches that this terrestrial sphere is ever to be the abode of the risen saints. Heaven is the appropriate habitation of glorified human beings, and heaven is, in its own nature, necessarily and eternally distinct from the material globe in which we dwell. [Note 19.] HST March 13, 1844, page 41.28
The theory is, however, plainly inconsistent with other predictions relative to the glorious future, as stated in the Apocalypse. That which you deem the Resurrection state, or true Millenium, is the same with the New Jerusalem; but of this state it is said that “the kings of the earth shall bring their glory unto that city,” i. e. shall consecrate their riches unto the church, and that the leaves of the Tree of Life shall be for the healing of the nations (Gentiles, or heathens.) But what heathen nations remain to be healed in the New Heaven or on the New Earth, which you anticipate? I cannot enlarge in this prophecy, but it obviously refers to a state of things to occur on the present earth at some future period of its history, and one that is inconsistent with the great physical change for which you are looking. [Note 20.] HST March 13, 1844, page 41.29
6. The doctrine of a twofold resurrection separated by the space of a thousand years, cannot be satisfactorily made out from a just application of the laws of prophetic interpretation. [Note 21.] HST March 13, 1844, page 41.30
7. The practical effect of the style of preaching prompted by your views, forms an inseparable objection against them. It addresses itself mainly to the passions. It aims to move men by exciting their fears of physical and miraculous judgments, instead of pressing upon the conscience the great moral sanctions of religion. The consequence is, that under the influence of panic terrors calm reflection is precluded, and the mind cannot soundly judge of the true nature of its emotions, or discriminate between the impulse of a wild enthusiasm, and a genuine pious zeal. It is no wonder, then, that is this feverish excitement, reason often loses its balance and Lunatic Asylums share with churches in the reception of those who have embraced the Advent doctrines. [Note 22.] HST March 13, 1844, page 41.31
These, I believe, are among the reasons which operate very extensively in the rejection of your sentiments among sober christians. It would be easy to enlarge the catalogue, but I do not wish to intrude unduly on the space allotted me. You will have seen that the amount of the objections is, that your theory regards as certain and indisputable, the meaning of a multitude of prophetical texts, which reflecting minds consider as at least doubtful, and consequently cannot but condemn as presumptuous, the term of unqualified assurance with which they are proclaimed by Advent preachers. [Note 23.] HST March 13, 1844, page 42.1
Very respectfully yours, etc.
Geo. Bush.
NOTES ON THE FOREGOING
[9] In this, again, the Prof. is at fault. Mr. Miller may have given, in times past, such an interpretation to this passage: but we know not where to find it in any of his writings. But we do know that in his late lectures in the city of New-York, where Mr. Bush resides, he gave it an entirely different interpretation, which is expressed by the following paraphrase of Daniel 8:1: “In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, even unto me Daniel, [beginning] after [the commencement of] that which appeared unto me at the first [year of Belshazzar’s reign, which commenced with the Babylonian empire]” HST March 13, 1844, page 42.2
[10] Prof. Bush does not deny that the translation of this is correct. If Mr. Miller is in error, it is not therefore with respect to the original. If he is wrong in the application, it yet remains to be shown. If the above are not all the places where an inaccuracy in Mr. Miller’s view of the language can be shown, it seems they are the most prominent. And be it remembered, if the Bible is not correctly translated, the sin lies not at Mr. Miller’s door; but with King, James’s translation, which is no mean authority. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.3
[11] It is seen that the nature of the events is now the only question at issue. On this point let the arguments be closely scanned. Mr. Miller’s view of the events is called an assumption; then the presentation of evidence in support of any view is an assumption! If this change is to be thus gradual, where is the Scripture for it? The nature of this change is given by Adventists in Scriptural language: to disprove our views, it therefore remains to be proved that the Scriptures do not mean what they assert. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.4
[12] How can this be? Prof. Bush, until he admits that the time has expired, cannot consistently claim that Mr. Miller is mistaken in the event; and when he admits that the time has expired, it will be necessary for him to show that the event for which he looked has transpired, or he will also be convicted of having mistaken the event; for the time of the event must extend to the event. If there proves to be any variation in the exact time, as Prof. Bush intimates, Mr. Miller is surely as much entitled to it as himself, before be can claim that the time has convicted Mr. Miller of a mistake in the event. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.5
[13] The description which Daniel gives of what he saw in vision of this coming, likens it to “one like the Son of man,” who “came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought him near before him: and there was given him dominion, and glory and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and language, should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” “And this is explained by the angel to denote that “the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever.” “And the kingdom, and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.” If therefore it is spiritual coming it bears no analogy to the other parts of the vision; all the previous symbols used in the vision have been shown by their fulfillment to denote realities as much greater than the symbols, as the four great empires which have arisen were greater than the four beasts which symbolized them; to preserve the analogy it will be necessary that the reality of Christ’s coming at the end of the forth kingdom, should be as much greater than what Daniel saw in vision, as those empires were greater than their symbols. It cannot therefore be a spiritual coming which is there symbolized, which would be infinitely less that the symbol used. It has never yet been shown in the Scriptures, where the greater is used to symbolize the less, but always the less the greater. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.6
[14.] Here is an admission that the Bible says nothing about a spiritual coming; for one such assertion between the lids of the Bible would be sufficient to convince any literalist. A literalist only requires a “thus saith the Lord;” a spiritualist is not satisfied with the plain word. That surely cannot be revealed, which must depend on its fulfillment for its proof. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.7
[15.] Not so. We expect that the Sun, Moon, and planets, with the hosts of heaven, will ever continue to revolve. Nor will any lapse of time convince us that we are mistaken in believing the simple Word of God, until a spiritual coming shall prove the nature of the events to be not literal. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.8
[16.] If such is the dominant faith of the Church at this day, it was not the faith of our fathers who all understood the events to be literal. This sad departure from the faith once delivered to the saints, is therefore only another evidence of the literal fulfillment of the prophecies in which are predicted, that “The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall heap to themselves teachers having itching ears;—and they shall turn away their ears from the truth and be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:3. The sad result has shown that this was no spiritual prediction: it is even now being fulfilled to the letter. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.9
[17] If the one is thus to be “gradually abolished,” and the other “gradually introduced,” it is singular that the prophecy is entirely silent respecting that also. But the prophecy is not silent respecting what is to intervene between the two. Peter tells us expressly that the earth which is now, is “kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men,” when it will be melted with fervent heat; after which there is to be a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness,” 2 Peter 3:5-10. Paul also shows us that this judgment is to be when Christ shall appear:—“Who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and kingdom,” 2 Timothy 4:1. He also assures us that at the same time, the saints of the Most High will be raised. 1 Thessalonians 4:16.—“For the Lord himself shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.”—These scenes are also all presented in the prophecy of Daniel before us, as intervening between the two events. There is the same appearing of Christ:—“One like the son of man come to the Ancient of Days.” There is the same judgment of the quick and dead—“the judgment was set, and the books were opened.” There are also the risen saints—“thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him.” There is the same fire unto which the earth is reserved unto the day of judgment—“his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire, a fiery stream issued and came forth before him;” and there is also the same kingdom—“and then was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom.” HST March 13, 1844, page 42.10
At the end of the fourth kingdom in the 2nd of Daniel, the same entire and total change is shown to intervene; the image is to be smitten on its feet, become like chaff, and no place be found for it; which is explained to be the breaking in pieces, and consuming of all these kingdoms. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.11
[18.] The apostle has shown how spiritual bodies can inhabit a material world, by showing us that our spiritual bodies will not be etherial, but material also. Our Savior told his disciples to handle his spiritual body, which they found to be flesh and bones, as spirits without the body are not, Luke 24:39. Paul assured us that our vile bodies, to become spiritual, must be changed and fashioned like unto Christ’s glorious body, Philippians 3:20-21; that God hath raised up the Lord and will raise up us, 1 Corinthians 6:14, 2 Corinthians 4:14; and that he which raised up Christ from the dead, will also quicken the mortal bodies of those who possess his Spirit, Romans 8:11. We also have the express assurance that the graves of the whole house of Israel will be opened, and they brought up out of their graves, Ezekiel 37:12. Job in his flesh expected to see God, after the worms had destroyed his body, Job 19:25-27; and Isaiah testifieth that the dead men who dwell in the dust will live and will arise with his dead body, Isaiah 26:19. As our spiritual bodies are to be material, it will be seen that they can inhabit none but a material world. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.12
[19.] It has never yet been shown that any other place than this earth has ever been promised to the righteous; and yet the possession of this earth is thus promised. Abraham and all his seed are promised its possession forever, Genesis 17:8, and Romans 4:13. Daniel is assured that the saints of the Most High, (not a part of them) will take the kingdom under the whole heaven, and possess it forever, Daniel 7:27. Ezekiel is told that Israel will be taken out of their graves and placed in their own land. David assures us in Psalm 37. that the wicked will be rooted out of the earth, but that the righteous will inherit it forever. Solomon assures us the same, Proverbs 2:21-22; 10:30. Isaiah also repeats it, 60:21. Our Savior also assures us that the meek shall inherit the earth, Matthew 5:5.—John saw this new earth, Revelation 21.; he heard the song of the risen saints, “We shall reign on the earth,” Revelation 5:10.; and it was revealed to him that the kingdoms of this world will become the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and his Christ, when the dead will be judged, the servants of the Lord rewarded and those that destroy the earth destroyed, Revelation 11:15-19. Every Bible reader should be able to “find” some of these many and repeated predictions of the abode of the righteous. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.13
[20.] The kings of the earth are seen by Revelation 20:4, to be those who reign with Christ—those who have part in the first resurrection, when our Savior says they will be equal to the angels, Luke 20:27-40; the nations are shown to be “the nations which are saved,” Revelation 21:24; not heathen nations, but those that are redeemed out of every kindred and tongue and people, and nation, who will be made unto God, kings and priests, and will reign on the earth, Revelation 5:9-10. This theory, instead of being inconsistent with, is the only one which can be shown to be fully consistent with this promise: for the promise is that all things are to be made new, that there shall be no more curse; nor death, nor sorrow, nor crying; that God will dwell with them and be their God, and wipe away all tears from their eyes and they shall be his people. A theory like that of Prof. Bush’s, which denies that God will dwell with them, and makes sin and death, sorrow and crying, tears and the curse still continue, and nothing created anew, cannot surely have the most remote resemblance to the glorious promise in question. HST March 13, 1844, page 42.14
[21.] We are willing to admit that in support of this, we have nothing to sustain us, but the express declaration of God, see Revelation 20:4-6. There is nothing in this view of it which is at all essential to the doctrine of Mr. Miller. It would have made no difference with his view of these great events, had God there predicted but one resurrection; yet there is the language of Scripture, and if it is not thus to be believed, where is the umpire, or the dictionary of terms to decide what God does mean, where the meaning is unexplained? HST March 13, 1844, page 43.1
[22.] Does this style of preaching present any motives, that are not presented in the language of the Scriptures? or do the Scriptures present motives which those who are commanded to declare the whole counsel of God are not at liberty to employ? If not, it will seem that this is an objection which bears against the Scriptures themselves, more than against “Millerism.” That the doctrine of the Advent has had a peculiar agency in filling Lunatic Asylums, we deny in toto.—That a few minds predisposed to insanity may have lost their balance, need not be denied; and yet in all these cases, we have reason to believe, that not the belief of the coming of the Lord, but some wild notion, having no necessary connection with such a belief, has been the moving cause. If some few cases of this nature could be shown, they would be but as a drop in the bucket, compared with others who have become deranged from ordinary religious causes. Therefore if this is a valid argument for Christians to urge against the doctrine of the Advent, the same argument of the infidel against all religion, will be equally valid. This allusion was very unlike Prof. Bush. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.2
[23.] We have thus presented the reasons of Prof. Bush, for the rejection of the doctrine of the advent. We have examined his objections in the light of the Scriptures; and we are unable to discover in them any valid reasons for his conclusions. We must consequently still continue to believe the Word of God as he has given it to us, believing what God by all his prophets has spoken, until the event shall decide the nature of this momentous question. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.3
We will only add that the reasons why we who are looking for the Lord are shut out the pale of Christendom have not yet been given. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.4
Extract of a Letter from bro. A. Clapp
Dear Brother Bliss:—The subject of Christ’s speedy coming continues to be interesting to me. It fills my soul with rapture, while I anticipate the joys that await the righteous, which they will receive when he comes. Jesus in all his glory, with all his redeemed Israel that have been washed by his own blood, and gathered from every nation, kindred, tongue and people under the whole heaven, will then be in the New Jerusalem, on the New Earth, to go no more out forever. Then we shall behold him face to face, and be with him. Bless God for the promise that was given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to their seed. Thank God that the apostle told us that they died without receiving the promise, but died in the faith of receiving it at the resurrection, in the New Earth restored to its Eden state. If we are the children of God, we shall see them there; we shall see our righteous parents, brothers, sisters, and children there, and have eternal life. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.5
“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come; for men shall be lovers of their own selves; lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.” It is said that twenty-five young men of this city, have fitted up a spacious hall for a nine-pin alley, for amusement and pleasure; and fourteen of them are professers of religion, members of the churches in this city! HST March 13, 1844, page 43.6
Hartford, Feb. 12th, 1844. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.7
A brother who has not yet embraced the doctrine of the Advent, exhibits much candor in the following remarks. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.8
I have never, as yet, become a confirmed believer in the doctrine or theory, that the “cleansing of the sanctuary,” means the “end of all things at hand,” and “at hand,” means this year. But still I feel a deep solicitude for a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus; and am not able, through all the arguments brought against the doctrine by opponents, and by proofs adduced from the Scriptures, to say or attempt to prove, that your expositions of the visions of prophecy are incorrect. Therefore I am determined to explore the sacred ocean of divine testimony, and follow every stream that emanates or flows from it, in search of that invaluable pearl, until I am better satisfied. And as the promised ‘Advent Herald,” assuming a significant title, may be such a presagement to the world now, as “His Star” was to the shepherds in the east, I trust it will manifest a bold and harmless spirit, in its proclamations to the world. I will carefully search that stream also, if you will direct its course this way; and if I should not get more confirmed by its testimony, it will prove to be the water of life to the eyes my longing soul of my advent wife. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.9
England. Bro. Robert Winter writes, under date of Nov. 30th. He says, “we had a camp meeting last week in the county of Norfolk, and thousands of people were present on the occasion. We meet with great opposition; the mob broke in upon us, and threw fire works among the people to break up the meeting; but we were protected without receiving much harm We are doing all we can to scatter abroad light and truth, as far as practicable; and we shall not be driven from the field by the breath of mortal man. I am fully persuaded that the cause we advocate is the cause of God; and that men nor devils can overthrow it. It is the privilege of all Christians to understand it; and of all ministers to preach it; although all who do, must encounter great opposition, both from the church and world. I believe those who oppose this doctrine are fighting against God; destroying themselves; denying the Holy Spirit; rocking churches to sleep, and causing thousands to believe a lie, and be damned. There is great happiness experienced in receiving this doctrine, and powerful effects result from the preaching of it. Let those who will, see if these things are not so. The Lord will soon finish the controversy of Zion. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.10
I feel it my duty to cry aloud and spare not; to lift up my voice like a trumpet, and do what I can to show the church and the world, the awful condition they are in, and what they must do to escape the damnation of hell. O that more of Zion’s watchmen would arouse from their slumbers, and do their duty in the fear of God, lest those who perish be required at their hands. Awful will be their condition if found asleep, or crying peace and safety when the Lord shall come. I have no time to spend in idleness while so many are sleeping on the borders of damnation. My duty is made plain, and my work is before me; and I must do it or perish. The harvest truly is great but the laborers are few. There are men enough in the field, but they had rather reign than have Christ come and reign. They care more for the fleece than for the flock; are dumb dogs which cannot bark; and greedy dogs which can never have enough: looking every one for his gain from his quarter. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.11
Notwithstanding the thousands of ministers which are asleep over the truths of the Bible, yet the Lord is raising several good, holy, and useful brethren, to give the midnight cry in many different and distant places; so that the cry has been heard and great revivals have followed. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.12
This week Bro. Burgess and myself have been laboring in Lynn, Norfolk county; and the Lord was present to own and bless his truth. Sinners were converted, and backsliders reclaimed and made alive to God. The Lord has greatly blessed our labors in this town. Here are now many precious souls looking for that blessed hope and glorious appearing of the great God, and our Savior Jesus Christ. Many of our friends now see that the hand of God is with us, and crowds come flocking to hear. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.13
Extract from the Preface of Habershon’s Historical Exposition of the Apocalypse—An English Work
There appears little doubt but that events will soon transpire, which shall have the effect of imperiously and most solemnly turning the attention of all who have any respect for what God says, to more earnest inquiries on this subject, and to a deeper sense of its overwhelming and practical value. And how much better will it be, how much more reasonable it is, in our anticipations of the future, to bend the mind to this only true light “shining in a dark place,” than, as we are all but too willing and ready to do, trust to our own fancies or wishes, and to say, “Peace, peace, when there is no peace.” We are all of us naturally backward in believing that our own fond schemes, with regard to worldly or family affairs, or even with regard to our expectations in reference to the church, are to be broken in upon and frustrated. Nevertheless, we may be assured that such will be the case; and that few of us are at all aware, as it respects these things, of the precipice on which we stand. Who in the antediluvian world believed Noah, when he announced the flood? The inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah looked upon Lot as one that mocked: and none of the Jews, in the time of our Lord, believed Him when he announced the speedy destruction of their devoted city. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.14
It is the same voice that now speaks! And “God s not a man that He should lie; nor the son of man, that He should repent: hath He said, and shall He not do it? or hath He spoken; and shall He not make it good?” Therefore it is well to attend to the admonition, “Despise not prophesyings.” There can be no hesitation in saying, looking at the church in all its denominations, that they are yet, if not despised, neglected: so much so, that to many they are almost a prohibited subject. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.15
In addition to the arguments which are generally brought forward to prove that such conduct is both hurtful and anti-scriptural, there is one other consideration which appears to my mind most strongly to show the special value of both the prophecies of Daniel and St. John in the sight of God, and, by consequence, the greater sin of those who neglect them. This is, that both these eminent prophets are declared to be the peculiar favorites of heaven; for of the former it is said, “O man, greatly beloved;” and of the latter, that he leaned on Jesus’ breast, and received other marks of affectionate regard. The very circumstance therefore of such being chosen to have these great prophecies and revelations given to them, appears to be for the purpose of conferring the greatest of all honors upon them; and in that proportion to express their vast and unutterable importance; and in that proportion likewise to impress upon us, instead of neglecting them, how very greatly we ought to prize and study them. HST March 13, 1844, page 43.16
Well therefore may it be said in reference to the Apocalypse, as a motto to the whole book, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things that are written therein; for the time is at hand.” HST March 13, 1844, page 43.17
Opinion of Mr. Fletcher in 1755
He says:—“If we are mistaken in forming conjectures—the phenomena we hear of every where, are but common providences—if these things happen not to us, but to our children, (as they most certainly will, before the third generation is swept away) is it not our business to prepare ourselves for them, to meditate on them, and to warn as many people as we can prudently, lest their blood should be required at our hands, were they to fall because of a surprise. Let us pray to God more frequently, that for the elect’s sake he would still more shorten the days of the tribulation, and add daily to the true church such as will be saved. But let us not forget to rejoice with Abraham, in seeing by faith the glorious day of our Lord, and to hasten, by our fervent prayers, that glorious kingdom, those happy days, when narrow shall be the way of destruction, when saints raised from the dead shall converse with living saints, and the world of spirits be manifested, in a great measure, to the material world; in a word, when Jesus will be all in all.” HST March 13, 1844, page 43.18
“What a glorious prospect is this! let us often think of these words of our Lord, ‘Behold, I come quickly, blessed is he that mindeth the sayings of this prophecy. Let us join the spirit and the bride, who say, Come! O let him that heareth say, Come; and let him that is athirst come; for he that testifieth these things says, Surely I come quickly Amen! even so come Lord Jesus.” HST March 13, 1844, page 43.19
Advent Herald & Reporter
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, MARCH 13, 1844.
All communications for the Advent Herald, or orders for Books or remittances, should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass,” post paid. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.1
Post Masters are authorized by the Post Office Department to forward free of expense all orders for, or to discontinue publications, and also money to pay for the same. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.2
Subscribers’ names with the State and Post Office should be distinctly given when money it 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 13, 1844, page 44.3
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 be fore the fall, and is to be the eternal abode of the righteous in their resurrection state. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.4
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 13, 1844, page 44.5
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 13, 1844, page 44.6
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 13, 1844, page 44.7
V.—There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, extending beyond the [Jewish] year 1843. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.8
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 13, 1844, page 44.9
The Advent, the next Prophetic Event
I.—This is shown from the fulfillment of the prophecies
“They are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed lest he fall,” 1 Corinthians 10:11, 12. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.10
1. History informs us that Babylon, Media-Persia, Grecia, and Rome, the four universal empires, symbolized by the gold, silver, iron and brass of Nebuchadnezzar’s image, (Daniel 2.) have successively arisen as predicted; so that we are now at the very toes of the image, which symobolize the divided state of the Roman empire, in the days of which, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom, symbolized by the stone smiting the image on its feet and dashing it to pieces, and which will destroy all these kingdoms and stand forever. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.11
2. History not only shows a fulfillment of the predictions of these great kingdoms, which are also symbolized in the 7th of Daniel by four beasts, a lion, bear, leopard and nondescript beast; but also the fulfillment of the more minute predictions in that chapter respecting them—the division of the Grecian empire into four kingdoms, and the division of the Roman into ten, with the coming up of the Papal horn among the ten, which subdued three of them, and has continued its time; so that we only wait for the judgment to sit, when these kingdoms will be given to the burning flame, and the saints of the Most High will take the kingdom; to possess the kingdom for ever: even forever and ever. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.12
3. History shows the fulfillment of the same events predicted in the 8th of Daniel; so that we are only waiting for the exceeding great horn to be broken without hand at the end of the 2300 days. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.13
4. History shows a fulfillment of all the events to precede the judgment, predicted in the 11th and 12th of Daniel; so that we only look for the standing up of Michael, the time of trouble, the resurrection of the dead, and the glory which is to follow. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.14
5. History shows the fulfillment of all the events predicted in, the 24th of Matt., to precede the sign of the Son of man in heaven; so that we only wait for Christ to come, as the lightening shining from the east, even unto the west. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.15
6. History shows the fulfillment of the events predicted by St. Paul in 2 Thessalonians 2., to transpire before that day—the falling away, and the revelation of that wicked one—so that we only wait for the Man of sin to be destroyed by the brightness of Christ’s coming. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.16
7. We find by the historical fulfillment of the events predicted in Revelation 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, that we are living in the Laodicean state of the church, which is to be spued out of the mouth. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.17
8. We find by the historical fulfillment of the events predicted in Revelation 6th, that we are living under the sixth seal, at the close of which, the wicked will call upon rocks and mountains to fall upon them to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.18
9. We learn from the historical fulfillment of the events predicted in Revelation 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th, that we are at the close of the sounding of the sixth trumpet, when the seventh is to sound quickly; and when it shall sound the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.19
10. We find by the historical fulfillment of the events predicted in Revelation 12th, 13th, and 14th, that we only wait for the angels to reap the harvest of the earth, and to cast the wicked into the great winepress of the wrath of God. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.20
11. We learn by the fulfillment of the events predicted in Revelation 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th, that we only wait for the fall of Babylon, the gathering of the elect, and the destruction of the wicked. And, HST March 13, 1844, page 44.21
12. We learn by the fulfillment of all the discursive prophecies, but those which have reference to the scenes of the last day, and the glory to follow, that the Advent of Christ is the next expected event. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.22
II. The signs of the times, admonish us that the lord is at the very doors
“But can ye not discern the signs of the times?” Matthew 16:3. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.23
1. The gospel of the kingdom is now being preached in all the world; which was to be a witness to all nations that the end should then be—see Matthew 24:14. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.24
2. Many are running to and fro, and knowledge respecting the end is being increased, as was predicted it should be at the end, Daniel 12:4. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.25
3. The increase of riches, and heaping up treasures together, which was to be done “for the last days,”—James 5:1-3. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.26
4. The unwillingness to hear sound doctrine, and the substitution of fables, 2 Timothy 4:1-4. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.27
5. The multiplicity of scoffers, who walk after their own lusts, and say where is the promise of his coming, 2 Peter 3:3, 4. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.28
6. The perilous times spoken of in 2 Timothy 3:1-7. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.29
7. The departing from the faith, predicted by Paul, 1 Timothy 4:1-3. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.30
8. The multiplicity of false teachers who make merchandise of the gospel, 2 Peter 2:1-3. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.31
9. The abundance of mockers who walk after their own ungodly lusts, Jude 1:18. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.32
10. The universal cry of peace and safety, 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.33
11. The prevalence of wickedness, so that it is indeed as it was in Sodom and before the flood, Luke 17:26-29. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.34
12. The absence of faith that Christ will ever make his personal appearance, Luke 18:8. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.35
13. The wonders seen by this generation in, the heavens and in the earth, blood and fire, and pillars of smoke, Joel 2:30. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.36
14. The darkening of the sun, May 19th, 1780, and of the moon the night following, Matthew 24:29: Revelation 6:12. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.37
15. The falling of the stars, Nov. 13th, 1833, as a fig-tree casteth its untimely figs, when shaken of a mighty wind, Matthew 24:29: Revelation 6:13. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.38
III. The termination of the prophetic periods, also admonish that the coming of christ is the next expected event
“Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it that ye do not discern this time?” Luke 12:56. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.39
1. According to the most authentic chronologies, the 6000 years from creation, according to the Hebrew text, terminate about 1843. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.40
2. The seven times, or 2520 years, of Levit. 26., beginning with the reign of the Gentiles over the Jews, B. C. 687, terminate about 1843. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.41
3. The Great Jubilee, or 2450 years, commencing with the desolation of the land of Judea, B. C., 607, terminate about 1842. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.42
4. The 2300 days of Daniel 8, beginning with the 70 weeks of Daniel 9., at the going forth of the decree, Ezra 7., B. C. 457, terminate about 1843. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.43
5. The 1335 days of Daniel 12., beginning with the taking away of the Pagan daily sacrifice, in A. D. 508, also terminate about A. D. 1843. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.44
We must, therefore, if we read the Bible aright, be near the termination of all the prophetic periods. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.45
This combination of evidence—the fulfillment of the prophecies, the signs of the times, and the prophetic periods—admonish us that the end of all things is at hand. Let us therefore be sober and watch unto prayer. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.46
CORRESPONDENCE
We have received a communication from brother Francis Whitton, in relation to a statement in the Christian Herald, No. 42, Vol. 9, by Moses Howe, that the vestry of the second Christian house, in New Bedford, was granted to the Adventists, to hold meetings in once a week, and that the church passed a unanimous vote that the Adventists had the right to express their views freely upon any religious question in all their meetings; but not being satisfied with this, they withdrew and established meetings of their own. Brother Whitton gives as the facts in the case, that the church were holding two meetings in a week, and that at his request it was voted by the church unanimously, that there might be another meeting each week, called a Second Advent meeting. Soon after those meetings commenced, they were informed that it would be proper for them to pay $1 per week for the use of the house in addition to their share of the expenses of the church. To this the brethren agreed. The other members of the church then began to consider the Advent meetings as separate from the church; and the advent brethren also, who were obliged to hire the house, for that cause considered them so. Soon the introduction of it into the church meetings was objected to. Upon this the brethren held their meetings in private houses, which so affected the congregations of the church meetings, that the vote referred to, giving them freedom, was passed by the church. These meetings however being commenced, were continued. For this they were summoned before the church, and the result was a disconnection from that body. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.47
He adds. We have a band of brethren and sisters here, who are bound together by that love which death cannot separate. HST March 13, 1844, page 44.48
Logic—The species of logic which is unusually put forth to disprove the nearness of the Advent, is sad evidence, that however the heart may be affected, the head has very little to do with such reasonings. There is so little of “Scripture or reason” in the defence of the Anti-Adventists, that it is seldom we find an argument to comment upon. We have however found the following; and on which its author is doubtless willing to rest, or he would not have presented it. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.1
“This business of finding out when the world is coming to an end, is likely to prove an unprofitable one People would be much better employed in mending their own ways, and doing good to others, than by striving to find out the precise time of an event which, it is plain from the contradictory conclusions at which men have arrived, God has no where revealed in the Bible.”—Chris. Sec. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.2
Now if this argument is a good one, it follows that no truth can be revealed in the Bible, respecting which men entertain contradictory opinions. As there are no truths but what are thus contradicted, it would follow from the reasoning of this editor, that the Bible is a fable. Why will men advance, arguments contrary to “Scripture and reason,” which a moment’s reflection would show to be fallacious? HST March 13, 1844, page 45.3
Notice.—Friends in the vicinity of Portsmouth, N. H., who may wish for publications, may find them at the store of Daniel Andrews, corner of Congress and Vaughn streets, Porsmouth. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.4
Extract from a Letter
About fourteen months since, a friend put into my hand the “Signs of the Times.” This I read with a careful and prayerful attention, and I learned from God’s word, that this world’s History is portrayed in that sacred volume, and that as certain as God sits upon his throne in heaven, when those 2300 years expire, a voice out of the temple in heaven will be heard saying, It is done; the mystery of God is finished. In that hour, all earthly monarchs will loose their crowns; their thrones will be cast down, at the majestic appearance of him whose everlasting kingdom is to be set up. The gold, the silver, the brass, the iron and clay will melt away like wax before the sun. Oh happy hour! then will be heard the universal shout! the voice of the archangel, and the trump of God. Then will the parting cloud reveal to us our friend, our elder brother, our captain, our spiritual Joshua, our prophet, priest and King, coming with all the pomp and majesty of a God, with a retinue of angels, in flaming fire, speaking with a voice that will be as a voice of many thunders, as the voice of many waters; a voice that the dead will hear and obey, and who will come forth. He will come and not keep silence; a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous around about him. Oh! Behold him coming, not as a babe in Bethlehem, not as a man of sorrows, not as a condemned criminal at Pilot’s bar, not as one sold for 30 pieces of silver, the price of a pagan slave, or as one rendered below Barrabus, a seditious murderer; No, but as one before whom every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess him to be Christ to the glory of God the Father. Oh! joyful hour in which this mortal body is to be changed, and in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, fashioned like unto the glorified body of him who is the brightness of the Father’s glory, and the express image of his person. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.5
J. Ricketts.
Webster, Ms. Feb. 25th, 1844.
Letter from Michigan
Messrs Editors;—In taking up your paper of Jan. 24th, my eye rested on the following passage. “Brother O. Eastman has gone to the ‘GREAT WEST’ to labor in the vicinity of ROCHESTER.” Now although it is true that Rochester and western New York are west of Boston, and help to make up the immense regions of country this side of you, yet it sounds strangely to persons brought up in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, etc., to hear Rochester called as belonging to the great West, and even here, people who have come from beyond Rochester, hardly dare to think they have found the west, much less the “GREAT WEST.” But let it be known to ministers of the gospel who are desirous of sounding the Midnight Cry in the “Great West,” that there are villages and cities scattered over the states of Michigan, Indiana, Illinois a greater part of Ohio also, Iowa and Wisconsin Territories, where the people are willing to hear, and to whom great good might be done, were some of those able, talented and efficient ministers in the east to come among them. I know the time is short, and perhaps too short for any one to come to these regions; but I would suggest that these more peculiar western states have been peopled within a few years by what may be called the cream of the whole world, in respect of enterprise, intelligence, and what the world calls worth; that as a consequence, we have represented all the classes of society to be met with else where, though in a far less organized state; and that a man, to attract much attention, must be one who can acquit himself handsomely in the East, or who has a name there, and that these states have not to any extent been visited by ministers who believe, look for, and love the coming of our Lord. An uneducated man may attract some attention in the back and smaller places, but there are numerous places; where by such little, can be affected. While feeling this to be the case, and reading of the numbers of ministers and lecturers who are striving to affect something in those eastern cities, to whom the Midnight Cry has been proclaimed, until they have become perfectly case hardened, I am led constantly to enquire, why do not the ministers with you come West? To be sure last spring, brother Fitch preached in Detroit; and four and a half years ago brother Miller travelled in this state; but except these there have been very few persons who have lectured in this state, who have possessed sufficient note to call out many of the people in the large places. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.6
Were such individuals to come, in many of the large places, they could have crowded houses, and in many instances they might, I think, get access to the churches, when a small man cannot. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.7
Would it not then be better if the ministers who lecture to those who have heard before, or in places where the people are too aristocratic to come out at all, should visit these western cities, and make it a point to hold protracted meetings in cases where it is practicable. As for myself I am but one individual, and I suppose the only individual in this whole state, who make it a whole and constant business to sound the Midnight Cry. Brethren Poor and Sargent crossed into Canada yesterday; they have been traveling in this state for the last six weeks, lecturing and scattering publications. I have been lecturing in the country and vicinity for the last 2 months, as I can get opportunity. Many have heard me joyfully, but “the wicked mock.” I frequently have crowded houses. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.8
There are many in these regions who are looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord, and who, I trust, also love the appearing, who, though they cannot be brought to exercise faith in the doctrine of the coming of Christ this year, yet are very friendly, and are willing to take sides against the scoffings of the wicked; and there are a few generally where I go, who seem to believe with their whole hearts that Christ will come this year. For my own part I think it cannot but be so; and I say, even so, come Lord Jesus, come quickly. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.9
Michigan, Feb. 3rd, 1844. Henry Hudson.
Letter from Brother J. Lenfest
Dear Brother Himes:—I know of no reason why we should give up our hope, even supposing the time had run out, and we were really living in 1844, Jewish time. When coming in from sea, we often run out our reckoning some days before we make the land; but I never knew a ship’s crew to jump over board, because they did not make the land just as soon as they expected to; neither did I ever know a ship’s crew to put about and return to the port from whence they came; but they always keep on until they make the land. This is just what we must do: continue to look for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The nearer a ship gets to the land, the more danger there is. When a ship is out at sea, thousands of miles from land, they are in comparative safety; and the crew often times may be seen laying about deck, fast asleep in their night watch; and even the officers sometimes indulge, although it is against the rules of the ship. But when she draws near the coast, every man is required to be on the alert; every duty must be attended to with faithfulnes and fidelity; and the few days before making the land, are not unfrequently days of anxity and fatigue; and sometimes the crew are almost worn out with continued watching and labor. But by and by they gain the harbor; the ship is safely moored, and the weary crew are reposing safely in the bosom of their dear friends, and all their toils and hardships are forgotten. So it is with us; for some years past the churches have been sleeping; but now the word is given that we are rapidly approaching the heavenly coast, and every child of God is called upon to practice in his service. This is no time to sleep. Let not any one suppose that the victory is gained until we see our blessed Lord and Master coming in the clouds of heaven. There are rocks and shoals to the very gate of heaven, and the nearer we are to the heavenly port-the more active and vigilant we should be, lest after all our labor, we make shipwreck of our faith, and at last lose ourselves. There are some who complain that they do not make any head way in the good way; they seem too at the same time to associate with those that are filled with the spirit, and the sweet heavenly breeze is blowing around them, and the sails of their vessel are filled with the breeze; and yet they scarcely move. Now I will tell you what I think is the trouble; here is a ship bound across the Atlantic: her sails are all loosed; a smart breeze is filling them; the crew are all aboard, and the sails trimmed; but still she does not move. They look aloft and all around, and wonder what is the reason she does not move. You look astern, and there is the cause; they have a strong cable made fast to the wharf; and in order for the ship to go, this must be cleared. Well, some of them try to cast it off, but in vain; the rope has become entangled and all that they can do is to cut it. They do this, and the ship bears away on her course. This is the case with some of those that complain they do not get along in the good way so well as they desire. They have started, and are determined to go to heaven; the sails of their vessel are filled; and they wonder that they do not move. But perhaps if they would look closely at their hearts, they would find there is some cord that binds them down to earth. Now it makes but very little difference what this cord is made fast to, if it holds them. But we must forsake everything that serves to take our affections from God and heavenly things. May God help us to cut the last cord that binds us unduly here to earth. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.10
The time has arrived when those that live religion, must make a sacrifice of every thing to God. This is no time to fold our arms in sleep; if we do, we shall, like Bunyan’s pilgrim, sleep the sleep of death. Our motto should be, eternal life! eternal life!! Neither is it a time to hold on to our money; If ever there was a time when Christians should be active, it is now. Standing as we do upon the last crumbling inch of time, and millions around us going on to destruction as fast as the wheels of time can carry them, shall we look on unconcerned? Shall we hold on to our money with an iron grasp when there is so much that we can do? Shall we not rather take some of this money and scatter light and truth throughout the length and breadth of the land; and make an mighty effort to wake the sleeping virgins? The Lord is coming to reckon with his servants! Oh let us so live that when he comes, we may hear the welcome applaudit, well done good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Yours in hope. HST March 13, 1844, page 45.11
James Lenfest.
“The Dark Day.”
Dear Brother Bliss:—I have been thinking of the strait to which the opposers of our blessed hope are driven, in order to evade the evidence of a coming Judgment; and the more I think upon it, the more grateful I trust I feel to God that I am not one of their number. If I err, let me err in receiving and proclaiming the Word of God as I find it, instead of being exposed to the dangers of the dark vale of mysticism. They believe, (being compelled so to do, in order to support their position,) that “for ever, even forever and ever,” denotes only 1000 years, or, at the longest, (in order to case their conscience a little,) 360,000: and, that the angel that stands upon the sea and upon the earth, with hand lifted up to heaven, who swears by Him that liveth forever and ever, that there shall be time no longer,” and, that “the mystery of God is finished,” and, that then, at the sounding of the “seventh trump,” (and consequently “the last,” and if “the last,” then, as Paul says, “the dead will be raised, and we shall become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever; and the four and twenty elders will give him thanks that the nations are angry, and his wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that he should give reward unto his servants, and destroy them which destroy the earth;” they believe I say, that all this, and many more equally strong expressions denote, only the beginning of their temporal Millennium, or as Daniel terms it, “forever and ever.” Thus, whilst “swallowing a camel,” they will “strain at a gnat,” and tell you that the year, and nothing about the time will be known, “because of that day and hour knoweth no man;” forgetting what they read, (if read it they did, instead of receiving it by tradition in their utter neglect and contempt towards this doctrine,) before they came to this, that we are there exhorted, if not commanded, to KNOW that one generation from the first sign, the darkness of the sun, will not pass away till Christ will be seen coming in the clouds of heaven with his holy angels, and a great sound of a TRUMPET, (John’s “seventh,” and Paul’s “last one,” I reckon,) to gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other; and, they were to “KNOW” it too, as sure as we do that “summer is nigh, when we see the fig tree put forth its leaves.” HST March 13, 1844, page 45.12
But to be brief;—I have before me a manuscript. Sermon by the Rev. Elam Potter, M. A., upon the “Dark Day of May 19th, 1780,” delivered upon the 28th of the same month, before the first society in Enfield, Con.—Text, Matthew 24:29, 30. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.1
After mentioning some of the signs that preceded the destruction of Jerusalem, and stating that he considered that as a type of the end of the world, he mentions some of those that refer to the end of the world, and speaks of the “darkening of the sun,” as follows:— HST March 13, 1844, page 46.2
But especially, I mention that wonderful darkness on the 19th of May, inst. Then, as in our text, “the sun was darkened;”—such a darkness, as probable was never known before, since the crucifixion of our Lord. People left their work in the house, and in the field. Travellers stopped; schools broke up at 11 o’clock; people lit up candles at noonday, and the fire shone as in the night. Some people, I have been told, were in a sort of dismay, and thought whether the day of Judgment was not drawing on.” HST March 13, 1844, page 46.3
A great part of the following night also, was singularly dark. “The Moon,” though in the full, ‘gave no light,’ as in our text.” HST March 13, 1844, page 46.4
“Perhaps some, by assigning a natural cause of this, ascribing it to the thick vapor in the air, will endeavor to evade the force of its being a sign, but, the same objection will lie against earthquakes being signs, which our Lord expressly mentions as such. For my part, I really consider the darkness as one of the prodiges foretold in the text; designed for our admonition, and warning,” etc, etc. Yours in the blessed hope. W. Barber. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.5
S. Hadley Canal, Mass. Jan. 26th, 1844.
Southwestern and Western Virginia
Dear Brother Bliss:—I have been preaching to crowded houses at Winchester and at Woodstock. Here I commenced in the Court House. There was at first a most bitter opposition; but God opened the hearts of some of the most influential of this place, who procured me two churches; so they heard the cry, then I came to New Market, where the house was crowded. Next I went to Harrisonburg, where the Court House, churches, and all the public places were locked, bolted and barred, but I gave a short lecture in the tavern at night by wick light. This broke into some of their chaotic hearts who succeeded in getting me a place to speak the next night, to a crowded house. We must attribute the deadly opposition manifested to the Second Advent cause, mainly to the clerical and editorial scoffing; but I find after the truth has been presented, and discriminating persons hear, there is great reverse in the favor of truth. O how prominent is that one feature among the black ‘catalogue’ in 2 Timothy 3rd. chapter and middle of the 3rd verse, false accusers. My prayer is, the Lord have mercy on the Watchmen, and those seemingly very pious editors who have taken away the key of knowledge, Luke 11:52. I am now preaching to crowded houses in this place; great and serious interest is manifested. The peace and safety criers have not commenced their soothing strains, 1 Thessalonians 5:3. O what a contrast between God’s servants and them, compare Joel 2nd. chapter, first verse. The large Court House is a perfect jam. I have circulated some hundreds of publications all along the valley for nearly two hundred miles in every village, to travellers and many families. Yours in the hope of soon seeing the King. S. S. Brewer. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.6
Staunton, Va. Month. Adan. 24th, 1843. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.7
“Offend not in Word.”—James 3:2
We make the following extracts from a lengthy communication, which are worthy the consideration of all who “are looking for their Lord.” HST March 13, 1844, page 46.8
We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Let us not, therefore, judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling, block, or an occasion to fall, in his brother’s way. “With what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged.” Your course is plain. It is this, “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in piety.” Let us always fear to “speak grievous things contemptuously against the righteous.” “What hast thou to do with another man’s servant—to his own master he standeth or falleth.” Let no communication proceed but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Let all bitterness and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you with all malice, and be ye kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Foolish talking, [and] jesting are not convenient. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.9
What heart was ever softened by a sarcasm? What soul was ever brought to submit to Jesus Christ by words of levity? Not one will trace his convictions to such a cause. All are hardened by it. But some might say, “You must reply—you must repel attacks—and convince gainsayers.” Yet show I unto you a more excellent way, “Resist not evil, but overcome evil with good.” Refer your controversy to the blessed Savior, Psalm 43:1; 31:1., and 1 Samuel 24:15. Never wish to retaliate? It is the spirit of man’s fallen nature. Here is a specimen. Lord wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven and consume. He turned, and rebuked, and said, ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. My brother, take no heed to all words that are spoken. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.10
The spirit of this world is, “I will give my adversary a good sharp thurst.” To this, inspiration answers, Be not conformed to this world. Its very friendship is enmity to God. Charity suffereth long and is kind. Charity enyieth not—vaunteth not—is not puffed up—doth not behave itself unseemly—is not easily provoked—rejoiceth not in iniquity—but rejocieth in the truth—beareth all things—hopeth all things, endureth all things—never faileth. What a treasure-house is this charity. I wish our hearts were full of it. Leave even slightly evil, or doubtful words to the children of this world. Presumptuous are they—self-willed; they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusations against them before the Lord. Let your heart, full of tenderness, respond to them, while they speak evil of the things that they understand not. We have no permission to use a word even slightly injurious. Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said—The Lord rebuke thee. God holds out the “sun.” In his flood of light we will know more clearly, than you imagine, how the matter is between yours and the other camp. Let your “shield” ward off their bitter words. The “reward” is sure if you keep the word of his patience. Now, my brother, this world abounds with rancour. Let us have none of it. Noah was singular. He stood alone. O that we could sufficiently imitate his example. Censure as little as possible. Condemn none. Remember Him who said, Vengeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord. Let your conversation be with grace, seasoned with salt. Let your conversation be yea, yea, nay, nay, for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Utter the soft answer that turneth away wrath. We must account, not only for every pernicious word, but even for every idle, unkind or useless word. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.11
If your opponents place themselves in an awkward attitude, by their injudicious attacks, then make a self-denying use of their imprudent positions. What relationship have we to their course? For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves. Let your decision be not to answer again most of their attacks. For if you should, then you would be diverted from your appropriate work, by turning aside to vain jangling. Take one glorious rule. Being persecuted, we suffer it. Being reviled, we bless. Being defamed, we entreat. Salute no man by the way—still less jangle—when your proper business is, to proclaim—Behold the bridegroom cometh. Christ’s example divinely shines. Let it be sought—contemplated—transferred to your heart—and infused in your soul. He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the streets. Likewise, the servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient. All may suffer from unrighteous allegations. Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God, commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator. The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation. Endure chastening submissively, meekly, sweetly. You have no more right to murmur against the rod—than against him that appointed it. He says, as many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. If you are reproached, take it patiently. If you answer again, and scourge the opponent, then you take the decision out of the hand of God. Then you sit in judgment on the case. Remember that all judgement is committed to the coming King. To the pure and spiritual, all things shall work together for good. Meddle as little as possible with the distorted pratings of the enemies of truth. They may try to make merry—with their groundless accusations, sporting themselves with their own deceivings; but their feet will slide in due time. Never stoop to throw back their idle charges. For our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lard Jesus Christ. Let him find our hearts full of the meekness of his wisdom. If ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses. If ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them, for this is the law and the prophets. Love your enemies—bless them that curse you—do good to them that hate you—and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you. Give every one his portion of meat in due season. While you pray, Give us our daily bread, remember who said, the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life. Evermore give us this bread. Blessed is that servant, whom his lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing. Socrates V. Williamson. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.12
Geneseo, N. Y. Feb. 24th, 1844.
Letter from Bro. Darius Sessions
Dear Bro. Himes:—The seed sown in this place by you and brother Litch two years since, was not in vain. Although some seed fell by the way side, and some among thorns; yet we have reason to bless God that some fell on good ground, which has brought forth fruit to the glory of God. There are a goodly number in this vicinity, who are strong in the faith, looking for the coming of the Lord. We meet by ourselves, having had to separate from the church, in order to enjoy our faith, in looking for and speaking of the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ; but the Lord has been with us and blessed us. Our meetings are well sustained, and we have the unity of the spirit in the bonds of peace. There are more Advent believers in this vicinity, than there was one year since; and the cause is on higher ground. We are determined to wait for, and look for the coming of the Lord, until he shall appear. We are blest by the labors of Dr. Huntington, of Brooklyn, who is an able expounder of the word of God, and a theologian: and we hope to be able to sustain our meetings, until the Lord shall appear. We have no thoughts of turning back, or giving up our faith. We feel that we are established on God’s everlasting truth, which will stand when the earth shall melt with fervent heat, and the works that are therein shall be burned up. We regard the fundamental principles of the Advent faith to be too firmly established, ever to be overthrown: they stand like a rock in the waves of the ocean, which defies the surging billows. We defy the opponents of this doctrine to overthrow it; it is so clearly written in the word of God, that the opposers are obliged to acknowledge that there is a strong ground for our faith. Many no doubt think we shall soon give up our faith, and go back to the churches from which we have separated; but such I apprehend will be disappointed. We have no more thought of turning back, than Lot would have had of returning to Sodom, had its fate been spared a short period. The Lord deliver us from a cold, lukewarm, and infidel church. May the Lord sustain you, in your noble efforts to sustain this glorious cause till He shall come, whose right the kingdom is, and the Lord shall give it him, is the prayer of your friend, Darius Sessions. HST March 13, 1844, page 46.13
Pomfret, Ct., Feb. 21st, 1844.
THE GOD OF ABRAHAM. j. c. stoddard
1. The God of Abraham praise, Who reigns enthroned a-bove; An-cient of ev-er-lasting days, And God of love; Je-hovah, Great I Am! By earth and heav’n con-fess’d; HST March 13, 1844, page 47.1
2. The God of Abraham praise, At whose supreme command From earth I rise—and seek the joys At his right hand: I all on earth for-sake, Its wisdom, fame, and power,
3. The God of Abraham praise, Whose all-suf-ficient grace Shall guide me all my happy days, In all his ways: He calls a worm his friend, He calls himself my God!
I bow and bless the sa-cred name, For-ev-er bless’d.
And him my on-ly portion make, My shield and tower.
and he shall save me to the end, Thro; Je-sus’ blood.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.2
4
He by Himself hath sworn,
I on his oath depend,
I shall on eagles’ wings upborne
To Heaven ascend:
I shall behold his face,
I shall his power adore,
And sing the wonders of his grace
Forevermore.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.3
second part
Though nature’s strength decay,
And earth and hell withstand,
To Canaan’s bounds I urge my way,
At his command:
The watery deep I pass,
With Jesus in my view;
And thro’ the howling wilderness
My way pursue.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.4
6
The goodly land I see,
With peace and plenty bless’d!
A land of sacred liberty,
And endless rest;
There milk and honey flow,
And oil and wine abound;
And trees of life forever grow,
With mercy crowned.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.5
7
There dwells the Lord our King,
The Lord our righteousness,
Triumphant o’er the world and sin,
The Prince of Peace,
On Sion’s sacred height
His kingdom still maintains;
And glorious, with his saints in light
Forever reigns.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.6
8
He keeps his own secure,
He guards them by his side,
Arrays in garments white and pure,
His spotless bride;
With streams of sacred bliss,
With groves of living joys,
With all the fruits of paradise,
He still supplies.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.7
9
Before the Holy One,
They all exulting stand,
And tell the wonders he hath done,
Through all their land.
The listening spheres attend,
And swell the growing fame,
And sing in songs which never end
The wondrous Name.
HST March 13, 1844, page 47.8
Belshazzar’s Feast
God had set the time. Jeremiah 25:12. It had been the theme of much prophecy. The learned of Babylon were not ignorant of this prophecy. They feared the God of Israel. They knew that he had accomplished wonders for his people. Babylon was made secure by three walls. The outer one 360 feet high and 80 feet through. The river Euphrates passed through this great metropolis of the world; and they had arched the wall over it. Why so much caution? such high and strong walls? They had conquered the nations and carried their gods away captive to their temple in Babylon. They feared Israel’s God. Though they had carried away the vessels of his temple at Jerusalem, and reduced his people to bondage, they had not carried him away. The seventy years were nearly up. They had made great calculations on a feast if Babylon passed this prophecy; for then they would have nothing to fear. But Cyrus had heard of the design of this, feast; and he laid his plan to enter in the midst of the confusion it occasioned, and subdue Babylon. He cuts a new channel, to turn the water-course of the river another way, that he might enter with his army under the arch, in the bed of the river. On the last day of the seventy years—the sun had set, and all was safe. “Belshazzar, the king, made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand.” Daniel 5:1. The common people followed the example. Their fear was over; and the guard laid down their watch, and joined in the general feast. It was a festive night. They felt that the word which had gone forth from Israel’s God had failed. That night Cyrus, the nephew and general of Darius, let the water from the river into the channel, and entered the city with his army under the wall. Instead of finding a strong guard to contend with, he found the people wrapped in one scene of revelry and drunkenness, paying their devotions to their idol gods. HST March 13, 1844, page 47.9
What is now passing in the palace of the proud monarch of Babylon? HST March 13, 1844, page 47.10
The mighty golden palace is lighted with unusual splendor, where the host of the high ones are assembled. What thoughts of future greatness are now passing in the minds of the lords and nobles; while their proud monarch, whose grand-father had reduced Israel to slaves, to show his contempt of their God, orders the vessels once consecrated to the service of Jehovah, in the holy temple at Jerusalem, that they may together profane them, in drinking to the honor of their gods, and triumph in their uncircumcised hearts over the God of Israel. Exultingly they exclaim! What power shall harm us? None dares dispute the mandate of thy will, O Belshazzar. Thy reign shall be a triumphant and glorious one. The nations shall obey thy command, and pay homage at thy feet. Thy name shall be exalted with the holy gods. “Babylon is the glory of kingdoms.” We had none to fear but Israel’s God, and his word has failed, and we have subdued his people. HST March 13, 1844, page 47.11
Where are God’s suffering people, the Hebrews, during this feast? They took no part in it. “By the river of Babylon there we sat down; yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.” Their enemies now tauntingly inquire of the prophecy of the seventy years; demanding of them a song, in their merriment. “For they that carried us away captive required of us a song, and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, sing us one of the songs of Zion.” (Read 137th Psalm.) “How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land? ... O daughter of Babylon, who art to be destroyed; happy shall he be that rewardeth thee as thou hast served us.” The poor Hebrews are now the servants of the servants, who carry the vessels of their Lord’s house from the idol temple where they had been kept sacred, that “the king and his princes, his wives and his concubines, might drink therein,” in this triumphant feast. O what a proud night for Babylon. In the height of their joy—“In the same hour came forth fingers of a man’s hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king’s palace; and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.” HST March 13, 1844, page 47.12
Silence reigned throughout the palace. All eyes are fixed upon the wall. O what has that unearthly hand written? Consternation filled every breast. Has not Israel’s God awaked to fulfill his word? None of the king’s wise men are able to read the writing. But Daniel, the Hebrew captive, is sought. He comes with the dignity becoming a prophet of Israel. He disdains the king’s gifts and rewards, but boldly reproves him for his sins—and reads in the hand-writing before the king and his proud assembly (now chilled and deadly pale) the king’s death warrant and Babylon’s doom. That night Belshazzar was slain, and proud Babylon was humbled at the feet of the prince of Media. HST March 13, 1844, page 47.13
Reader, would you be glad to have the vision fail? Remember that those who love his appearing receive a crown of life. Are you calculated to take a part in that triumph? I know of but one sign to appear before “the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God.” That sign will not be mistaken. Matthew 24:30. “And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn.” Is not the last sign reserved for the hour of your triumph? When MENE will be written in the palaces of every monarch on earth. “God has numbered thy kingdom and finished it.” And will not TEKEL be written upon thy forehead in the hour of thy triumph? “Thou art weighed in the balances and found wanting.”—But “beloved,” who love his appearing, “think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad with exceeding joy.” That we may be partakers in that joy, is the prayer of one who is expecting him who is our Life soon to appear. HST March 13, 1844, page 47.14
H. F. Hill.
Close of the Lectures at the Navy Yard in Washington. Mr. Miller closed his course of lectures at the above named place on Sabbath, P. M. Eternity alone will reveal the good accomplished; but some of its fruits are already apparent. The strong prejudice which existed against Bro. M. and his views of prophecy, have given place very generally to those of deep interest, and a fixed determination on the part of very many to search for themselves and know wether these things are so. During the week, a number of persons found peace in believing, and are now rejoicing in hope of the coming of that Savior, whom, having not seen, they love. The sound has gone out from thence to various parts of the land, and will, if time continues sufficiently long, be heard of by many who never before knew anything of the subject, but the scoffing and lying reports circulated by the public press. Several sceptics, who have rejected the Bible, have become fully convinced that it is a revelation from God, and now read its pages with delight. At the close of Bro. M’s lectures, at the suggestion of the pastor of the church, Bro. Tindal, the crowded congregation, by a unanimous rise, gave expression to their thankfulness and gratitude to Bro. Miller for his course of lectures there, and of their confidence in his integrity in publishing this doctriue. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.1
Southern Midnight Cry. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.2
The late Rev. Charles Buck, in his valuable Theological Dictionary, published above thirty years ago, under the article, Mahomet says:—“The four angels were loosed, says the prediction, verse 18th, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and a year, for to slay the third part of men. This period, in the language of prophecy, makes 391 years, which being added to the year when the four angels were loosed, (prepared) will bring us down to 1844, or thereabouts, for the final destruction of the Mahometan empire.” HST March 13, 1844, page 48.3
Correspondence
The State of the Cause. From every direction we hear most cheering intelligence of the faith of the friends and progress of the cause. For the encouragement of friends abroad, we would inform them that there is a good degree of interest in this city. The Tabernacle is well filled on the sabbath, and the prayer meetings during the week are well attended. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.4
New York City. We learn by the Midnight Cry that the interest continues, and the places of worship are fully attended. In Philadelphia the cause is also onward. And in Baltimore a good work is commenced. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.5
Holliston, Ms. Bro. A. Warfield writes,—“I think the Advent cause is manifestly on the increase here. A few of the Congregational Church are giving up the doctrine of a millennium in time. Opposition is also on the increase.” HST March 13, 1844, page 48.6
Troy, N. Y.—Bro. C. Hersey writes,—“We are now in this city, giving a course of lectures at the Ferry St. Baptist Church, in connection with Bro. G. C. Chandler, with the flattering prospect of doing much good. May God bless us. Pray for us. We have just returned from Petersburg, where quite a number were led to give their hearts to God.” HST March 13, 1844, page 48.7
Newark, N. J. Sister R. Cross writes,—“There is a happy band of Advent believers in this place, who are opposed by all the denominations, and many of the ministers.” HST March 13, 1844, page 48.8
Toronto, C. W. Bro. W. Hacking writes,—Bro. Caldwell is now in Toronto, lecturing to crowded houses, and God is manifesting his approbation by the awakening and conversion of many souls. All the large chapels have been closed against him, but God has put it into the hearts of those who love his appearing, to build a house which will contain about 1000, and it is filled to overflowing every night, with 20 or 25 forward for prayers.” HST March 13, 1844, page 48.9
Cincinnati. We learn from the Western Midnight Cry that the cause, by the blessing of God, is onward in that city and vicinity. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.10
Rochester. The “Voice of Truth” reports a good state of things in that region. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.11
Montreal, C. W. Bro. R. Hutchins has again returned to that field of labor. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.12
Jackson, Mich. Bro. J. Whitmore writes,—We have a few in this place who are firm believers in the doctrine of the Advent; others, who are partial, and a mass of scoffers. We need a good lecturer in this region. He would be an instrument of much good.” HST March 13, 1844, page 48.13
Hamonsport, N. Y. Bro. J. Lewis writes, Feb. 21,—“I live on Independent Hill, where God is pouring out his Spirit copiously, and we are at this present time rejoicing in hope, and looking for the coming of our blessed Savior. We meet on Tuesday and Friday evenings, and on Sabbath morning and evening, for Social prayer; and of a truth God is with us, and our faith is strong in the belief that the end of all things is at hand. Bro. Gillet is preaching about ten miles from here, in Avoca, and the Lord is with him, and the whole village is alarmed. Christians are praying for a deeper work of grace, and sinners are crying for mercy, the lukewarm are stirred up, and the backslidden are reclaimed.—Mid. Cry, HST March 13, 1844, page 48.14
Rice Creek, Mich. Feb. 8. “The Second Advent interest is increasing in this place. Your paper has thrown much light on the subject.—Ib. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.15
Belvidere, Ill. Bro. C. C. Jenks writes,—“There are a few here who are daily looking for a new heaven and earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness, Eld Wm. Roberts is occasionally with us, but his health is such that he cannot labor much; yet he is strong in the faith; and could he have help, souls might be rescued, and the cause sustained.” Ib. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.16
Saugerries, N. Y. Bro. L. Seightmyer writes,—“I bless God for the benefits I have received from the perusal of those copies of the Midnight Cry you so kindly sent me. I hailed them as a message sent from heaven. I have perused them with intense interest, and the benefits that I have received from them I would not exchange for worlds. O how sweet the thought that Jesus is soon to appear to save those that love his appearing, and to gather together his elect from the four winds of heaven into his everlasting kingdom.” Ib. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.17
Patchougee, L. I. Bro E. H. Whiting writes, Feb 20,—“We have glorious meeting in this place. Bro. Gamage, (Congregational minister) has embraced the doctrine fully, and preaches powerfully.” Ib. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.18
Albany, N. Y. G. S. Miles writes, Feb. 19,—‘Elder Burnham lectured here three times yesterday, and baptized 15 happy converts in the Hudson.” Ib. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.19
To Correspondent. The continuation of the article “Our Church,” was received too late for this paper. It may appear in our next. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.20
For the Advent Hera’d. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.21
That thou doest, do quickly
I have thought of the importance of those of our brethren who live in the vicinity of Rail Road depots, to go to the cars and distribute some of the little tracts to the passengers. In this manner much good may be done. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.22
There are some brethren probably living near all our depots, if they are not able to buy and distribute, let some who have the means, send them the tracts to distribute. Let no one say, it will do no good. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.23
Those brethren who travel should always be supplied to offer to each passenger. I have practised this manner of distributing tracts for more than a year, and I think they have never been rejected but twice—One minister and one professed infidel refused to take a tract, but the infidel afterwards requested me, and I gave it him. My manner has been, as soon as the cars start, to pass through the cars and ask each gentleman and lady if they will accept of a tract? When a way passenger gets in, I go and offer him one. Go thou and do likewise. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.24
W. C
A SECOND ADVENT CONFERENCE
Will be held, if he Lord will, in Lowell, to commence on Wednesday, March 20 and continue over the Sabbath, at the house where Elder Cole preaches. We shall try to entertain all of the friends who come to assist in giving the cry, Behold the Bridegroom cometh. Brethren Himes, Jones, Churchill and Plummer are especially invited to come and preach to us on the occasion, and all others who have the salvation of perishing sinners at heart. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.25
By request of the brethren,
OBITUARY
Died, in Springfield. Vt., Sister SATIRA MILLER, wife of brother John Miller, Tuesday, Feb. 27, 1 4, aged 50 years. Her health had been feeble through the winter. She has finally fallen asleep in Jesus. Her husband very unexpectedly found her a corpse at his side in the night. My heart was truly affected while calling on Bro. Miller and his little family of five children, to see them how around the family altar, calm and serene, patiently waiting the return of the Bridegroom, and all the saints with him. This blessed hope bears us up under every trial. Sister Miller was firm in the faith of soon seeing her blessed Lord. We sorrow not as those who have no hope. I. H. Shipman. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.26
March 4, 1844. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.27
NEW PUBLICATION
Origin, Nature, and Influence of Neology. By N. N. Whiting. This is No. 42 of the Second Advent Library, and is just published. Price, 10 cts. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.28
This work is designed to present, in a clear and concise manner, the rise and progress, in the church, of Neology and kindred fruits of the German Schools of Theology; with their effect on the churches of our own land. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.29
It was not until the blessed hope of the glorious appearing of the Great God and our Savior Jesus Christ was presented as an immediate event, to the professed followers of Him, who promised to come again, and was rejected by such with scorn, that it was even dreamed that the great body of the church had departed so far from the belief of our fathers, and from the “faith once delivered to the saints.” But the strong, Neological ground which the anti-Adventists have been obliged to assume, to ward off the doctrine of the immediate appearing of Christ, and the manner in which such views have been received, unrebuked by the great body of the church, have served to exhibit the extensive spread and deep root which the phylosophy of Germany has attained among the churches of our own land. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.30
These principles have crept in so insidiously—till now almost unnoticed—that their sudden maturity has caused a great call for information respecting their origin and progress, with the causes of so extensive a reception of them by the church. This call has here been most successfully met; and we cheerfully recommend it to all, as a work worthy the serious perusal, not only of those who love the appearing of Christ; but also of those who have drank deeply at the poisoned fountain. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.31
Letters received to March 9, 1844
Daniel Snow jr by pm $1; pm New Market N H; Ruth Cross; pm Gilford NH; R E Ladd $2; Wm H Stat; P. Burnap $1, and C. Burnap $2 by pm; A N Bently, by pm $; pm Hillsborough N H; J Weston $1; H Childs; N. R. Morse $5, papers mailed regularly per order; Wm G Churchill by pm $1; E C Clemens; S Howland $10; J Loring by pm $1; I Chadwick by pm $1; N Laport by pm $1; Elder B Cilley by pm $1; pm Sharon Vt; Wm B Mason by pm $1; P Clough by pm $1; N T Withington by pm $2; A G W Smith by pm $2; R Miller by pm $1; Dr Smith by pm $1; S Mallory by pm $4; E Roberts $1; W Milton $1; Safford & Park; J A Barret $7; T L Tullock; B Lillibridge; T Cole; C Clapp by pm $5; Wm J Hart by pm $5; C A Gale by pm $1; Geo. Welch by pm $2; O Tillson by pm $1; S Cook by pm $2; J V Himes; S P Flanders by pm $1; pm Vienna Me; pm Dedham Ms; pm Waterville Vt; Elder Morse by pm $2; Alman Whiting and Silas Bowen by pm $3; C R Hamlin by pm $1; Stephen Gates and E Edgarton by pm $1 each; Eli Fisk by pm $1; I H Shipman; Susan Farnsworth and R B H Gould by pm $1 each W T Morse $3; J D Proctor $1; Jno Buck by pm $2; A Wand and A H Smith by pm $1 each; L D Thwing $1, postage 25 cts; Wm M. Reddington by pm $1; Z Dellano by pm $2; S D Howard by pm $1; Levi Wiswall $10; W Rutherford by pm $1; S Melton by pm $2.50; T L Tullock; E C Clemens; J Dean; R Polly by pm $1; S Silkworth by pm $2; T W Titus by pm $1; Wm Lathrop by pm $1; D Austin by pm $2; S S Snow; pm Reading, Ms; B H Albee $2; T Smith $1; S Weeks $1; J Towle $1; O W S Newport; A Lyford; J Patten by pm $1; Chas. Chase by pm $1; C Aldrich and J Aldrich by pm $1 each: L Wooster and Mary Bump 50 cts each; S Flagg by pm $1; N F Withington by pm $1; J W Stewart by pm $1; F Wheeler and Amos Kimball by pm 50 cts each; E Straight by pm $1; D Smith Jr by pm $1; pm Louden N H; Geo Atkinson. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.32
Packages Sent
Jno. Starkweather, Worcester Ms; J Weston, New Ipswich NH; F G Brown, New Ipswich N H; G S Miles, Albany; J V Himes, New York; J Litch, Philadelphia, 40 Arcade; N Bishop, Greenville NY, care of G S Miles, 67 Green st Albany; S Howland, Topsham Me; N T Withington Springwater NY; J O Barrett, Townsend M; J V Himes, New York; A G W Smith, Castleton Vt; C Clapp, Akron, O; T Cole, Lowell; Elder T Smith, care of L Johnson, pm Vienna Me; pm Yorkville, S C; S D Howard, Barre, Vt; Silas Bowen, Felchville, Vt; L Wiswell, Montgomery, Vt; Wm T Moore, Smithford, SC; C R Hamlin, Hudson, O; B H Albee, East Machias, Me. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.33
SECOND ADVENT DEPOTS
Boston, Mass.—No. 16 Devonshire Street. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.34
Address J. V. HIMES. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.35
New York City—No. 9 Spruce Street. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.36
Address J. V. HIMES. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.37
Albany, N. Y.—No. 67 Green St. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.38
Address G. S MILES. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.39
Rochester, N. Y—No. 17 Arcade Buildings. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.40
Address E. C. GALUSHA. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.41
Utica, Y.—(Agent please give street and No. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.42
Address HORACE PATTEN. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.43
Philadelphia, Pa.—Nos. 40 & 41 Arcade, HST March 13, 1844, page 48.44
Address J. LITCH. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.45
Cincinnati, Ohio—Third Street, few doors east of Walnut, south side, add. J. V. HIMES. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.46
St. Louis, Mo.—No. 88 Market Street. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.47
Address H. A. CHITTENDEN. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.48
Louisville, Ky.—Jefferson House. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.49
Address Dr. NATH’L FIELD. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.50
Montreal, C. W.—No. 158 Notre Dame Street. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.51
Adress R. HUTCHINSON. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.52
Portland, Me.—Casco St.—address J. PEARSON. HST March 13, 1844, page 48.53