The Advent Herald, and Signs of the Times Reporter [Himes], vol. 7
April 17, 1844
Vol. VII. No. 11. Boston, Whole No. 155
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. 11. Boston, Wednesday, April 17, 1844. WHOLE NO. 155. HST April 17, 1844, page 81.1
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 April 17, 1844, page 81.2
Terms.—One Dollar per Volume, of 26 Numbers. Five Dollars for 6 Copies, Ten Dollars for 13 Copies. HST April 17, 1844, page 81.3
Dow & Jackson, Printers, HST April 17, 1844, page 81.4
THE BELIEVER’S SONG
Joyfully, triumphantly
We’ll say to earth, farewell!
Like pilgrims, we are journeying
In the Eden land to dwell.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.5
There we shall see our Savior,
And like him we shall be,—
There qualf the living waters,
Fast by Life’s verdant tree.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.6
He’ll dwell with us forever—
Christ Jesus who was slain
To save his people from their sins,
That they may with him reign.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.7
Joyfully, triumphantly
We’ll bid the earth farewell!
We’re pilgrims, near our journey’s end—
In Canaan soon shall dwell.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.8
There Eden flowers will ever bloom,
There Eden songsters sing;
Again the Paradise of God,
Uncurs’d, will Jesus bring.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.9
For he hath died, to purchase back
The perfect Eden state;
And joyfully, expectantly
The New Earth we await.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.10
“The restoration of all things
By holy prophets spoken,“
We’re daily, hourly looking for—
God’s Word cannot be broken.
HST April 17, 1844, page 81.11
Rochester, March 12th, 1844. E. C. C. HST April 17, 1844, page 81.12
The Heir of David’s Throne
The grant of sovereignty, which was entailed upon the house of David, is graciously accepted, in his person as God-man Mediator, by him who conferred it, and who is at once the root as well as the offspring of David. When we reflect on this great and infinite condescension, we shall not be surprised that David, who as a prophet well knew the import of the blessing that was conferred upon him, should exclaim, in overpowering gratitude, “Who am I, O Lord God? and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? And this was yet a small thing in thy sight, O Lord God; but thou hast spoken also of thy servant’s house for a great while to come. And is this the manner of man, O Lord God? ... For thou hast confirmed to thyself thy people Israel, to be a people unto thee forever: and thou, Lord, art become their God. And now, O Lord God, the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, establish it forever, and do as thou hast said. And let thy name be magnified forever, saying the Lord of hosts is the God over Israel: and let the house of thy servant David be established before thee.” The original expresses, much more fully than our translation does, the idea that David’s chief joy arose in these pious exclamations, from his knowledge of its being the Messiah, the promised Savior, that was to sit upon his throne. Accordingly Peter says, Acts 2:30: “Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne.” HST April 17, 1844, page 81.13
Though there may be, and undoubtedly there are, as appears from Zechariah 12:12, some of the royal house of David yet in existence—they being there mentioned as among the first remnant of those that shall be settled at Jerusalem—yet as Christ, the eternal Son of God, in condescending to be born, and taking our nature, made himself the true and rightful heir to David’s throne, there appears to be no reason, when we remember the deep humiliation to which he subjected himself at his first coming, why the express language used by the angel Gabriel in announcing his birth should not be understood literally. It runs thus: “Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favor with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” HST April 17, 1844, page 81.14
In fact, it is much more analogous to the general course of the Divine procedure, that Christ, in thus making himself the heir of David, did intend to take possession of David’s throne, and to make himself literally—what he is and always was vitually—king in Zion. And from a passage in Ezekiel, it is difficult to understand anything else but that it is his intention to do so. “Thus saith the Lord God; Remove the diadem, and take off the crown: this shall not be the same: exalt him that is low, and abase him that is high. I will overturn, overturn, overturn it; and it shall be no more, until He come whose right it is; and I will give it him.” HST April 17, 1844, page 81.15
Besides, the comparatively short time that the house of David hath yet reigned, but ill comports with the language of this splendid grant. The present royal family of France has actually possessed the throne of that kingdom, in its direct and collateral branches, nearly double the length of time that the throne of Judah has yet been in possession of the house of David. The plea which the Lord puts into the mouth of his people Israel, in supplicating for his mercy, with regard to their future restoration, may as properly be applied to the sovereignty as it is to the land: “Return for thy servants’ sake, the tribes of thy inheritance. The people of thy holiness have possessed it but a little while: our adversaries have trodden down the sanctuary. We are thine: thou never barest rule over them; they were not called by thy name.” HST April 17, 1844, page 81.16
David certainly understood, as every one else would, from the language of this grant, that something more was promised than a mere temporary enjoyment of the throne, and a dominion that scarcely ever extended over more than two of the Twelve Tribes. The delight with which he oftens dwells upon the subject in the Psalms, appears to place it beyond a question, that he saw, through the long vista of ages, Christ, as his descendant after the flesh, reigning in Jerusalem with a splendor and glory of which nothing that the world has ever yet seen can give an adequate idea. “The Lord hath chosen Zion: he hath desired it for his habitation. This is my rest forever: here will I dwell: for I have desired it. I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy. There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed. His enemies will I clothe with shame; but upon himself shall his crown flourish.” And again, “In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth. He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth ... The kings of Tarshish and the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.” HST April 17, 1844, page 81.17
When the disciples beheld the Savior risen from the dead, and thus triumphant over the grave, their expectations revived that he was going to take possession of the kingdom; and hence they asked, “Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” He did not blame them for the question, nor did he contradict their hopes; his answer rather seemed to confirm them. “He said unto them, It is not for you to know the times and the seasons which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.” And the Psalmist tells us how he was received and welcomed. Angels are represented as calling out and saying, “Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors: and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this king of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.” HST April 17, 1844, page 81.18
After Jesus had thus disappeared from the sight of his disciples, “while they looked steadfastly towards heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” Thus did special messengers from God, (immediately after Christ had ascended into heaven, and while the disciples, who had just now seen this wonderful event, were still looking up, declare to them most plainly and distinctly, that He should come again in like manner as they had seen him go—that is, in a cloud, and that is confirmed in several other places in the Scriptures. HST April 17, 1844, page 81.19
In a subsequent chapter, Acts 3:21, Peter says, alluding to this subject, that he will remain in heaven “until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began;” which implies that when the times of the restitution of all things are come, he will not remain in Heaven. Here is a striking limitation, and in connexion with our Lord’s second coming to reign, it deserves the deepest attention. As it regards this time of general restitution, it can be no other than that so sublimely spoken of by Isaiah and the other Prophets; the same season of blessedness before noticed, which is prophesied of by Daniel (chap. 12:12,) and which, as will be hereafter proved, must take place at the same time as the termination of this present period. It is that happy time so beautifully described by Cowper in his “Winter’s Walk at Noon,” where he says:— HST April 17, 1844, page 82.1
“The Time of rest, the promised Sabbath, comes;
Six thousand years of sorrow have well nigh
Fulfill’d their tardy and disastrous course
Over a sinful world: and what remains
Of this tempestuous state of human things
Is merely as the working of a sea
Before a calm, that rocks itself to rest;
For he----
Shall visit earth in mercy; shall descend
Propitious in his chariot pav’d with love;
And what his storms have blasted and defac’d
For man’s revolt, shall with a smile repair.”
HST April 17, 1844, page 82.2
The Savior himself, speaking of the manner of his second coming, says, “Then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud, with power and great glory.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.3
At his first coming, which was to satisfy Divine justice, to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to work out a righteousness by which sinners might be saved, he came to suffer. He was as a root out of a dry ground—a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief: he had no form nor comeliness in the eyes of the world; and his poverty was so great, that he could say, “the foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” The royal house of David had long before been suffered to sink into obscurity and poverty, that He, in these his days of humiliation, might “in all things be made like unto his brethren; for it became him for whom are all things, and through whom are all things, to make the Captain of their salvation perfect through suffering.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.4
But at his second coming everything of this kind will be totally changed; he will then come, not to suffer, but to triumph; he will come as he went—“in a cloud, with power and great glory.” What the full meaning of these words is, we must wait to see. The magnificent scene is thus described in the Revelation: “And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in Heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.5
The Jews have done right in expecting their Messiah to come as a king; it is an expectation for which they have the strongest Divine sanction. The fatal mistake they made—the rock on which they split—was their overlooking the Messiah’s first coming; and, as is done in our day respecting his second coming, perverting every thing that was said respecting it. They were wilfully ignorant; it was contrary to their pre-conceived ideas, their wishes, their schemes; and hence the very thought of it almost drove them to madness, and continues to do so up to the present moment. Yet, after all this opposition, this wilful rejection, this determined unbelief,—after all, He verily was their long expected Savior—the burden of their prophecies—the end of all their types and shadows. Independently of His sufferings and death, their bloody sacrifices had no other end, no other object; and many of their clearest prophecies could have no other fulfilment: still they could not, or would not, see it. “He came unto his own, and his own received him not.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.6
Such was their mistake; and we are guilty of a similar one, if we reject the equally clear predictions of his second coming, which speak if him as a king. To say that all these unequivocal expressions merely signify a spiritual reign, appears an unwarranted and an unnatural forcing of words from their plain straight-forward meaning; for a spiritual reign comports not with our ideas of a sovereign. David himself had no doubt a spiritual reign in the hearts of the Israelites long before he possessed the throne; but had he never possessed more than this, had he failed of obtaining that throne, we could never have viewed him in a regal capacity—he would have been no king. In like manner, unless Christ take to himself his great power, and reign in like manner, I do not see how, speaking after the manner of men, we can view him as reigning in the place of David. We see him in his life, as a prophet; and we see him as a priest; and we worship, and adore him, as our Savior and our God:—we say, To Him let every knee bow; but until we see him as a king, we can neither view him in this character, nor conceive how the analogy of fulfilled and unfulfilled prophecy respecting him is to be preserved. It was his own question, and deserves our serious consideration, “Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.7
There can hardly be a doubt that Nebuchadnezar’s dream, in the burth chapter of Daniel, of the tree which grew and was strong, whose height “reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth;” whose leaves “were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all; the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of heaven dwelt in the boughs thereof, and all flesh was fed of it,” etc., etc., represents the sovereignties of the world during the 2520 years. And this appears to be confirmed by the frequent repetition of the very term, seven times, which in this place is unquestionably chronological, and runs parallel with the same term in the 26th of Leviticus for the moment in which Judah was dethroned, and lost its regal honors, that moment was Nebuchadnezzar, the head of gold, invested with them. When therefore the house of David again assumes the throne in the person of Christ, “David’s greater Son,” and forms what has been the object of so many conquerors from Charlemagne to Bonaparte, a fifth general monarchy, then will every other rule and authority cease, and men shall know that the Most High ruleth over all; and then will commence that reign of righteousness (Isaiah 32:1,) of the glory of which we have but a faint idea; but in the prospect of which, those who look for him, may well lift up their heads with joy, for their redemption draweth nigh. HST April 17, 1844, page 82.8
That the Gentile monarchs are represented, in Nebuchadnezzar their head, as persons insane during this long period of 2520 years, is as much as to say that their governing principles and maxims have been totally at variance with the reasonable principle of the Gospel, and the high commands of Heaven; for no one can strictly be said to be in his right mind, whose heart is not right with God. Hence, in the second Psalm, the following exhortation is given—and happy those to whom God gives wisdom and grace to attend to it: “Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.9
Habershon’s Work, pages 157—161, 163—167, 170.
Pilate & Herod made Friends. Part 1
By Miss E. C. Clemens.
Our Gotham city has during the past winter been characterized by unusual gayety. HST April 17, 1844, page 82.10
The professing thousands, perceiving that the world has a spirit allied to theirs, deem that their high standard has been reached—not that they have leveled themselves down to the world’s requirements. Accordingly great rejoicings have celebrated this seemingly very desirable state of things. HST April 17, 1844, page 82.11
Grand festivals have been held, the proceeds of which have been appropriated to defraying church debts—and at these merry-making seasons, different denominations have united, not that they have admitted that the walls of the different sects should be pulled down—but having engaged in the project individually, of making our church great. In many things they have a common sympathy—the same worldy policy moves them, and any truth which shows up the corruptions of one, must necessarily exhibit those pertaining to others.—Hence in opposing the truth which God has brought to light, (first by humble instruments, those that did not receive honor from men—that no flesh should glory in his presence,) the representatives of the different denominational sects are almost unconsciously brought over to common ground, as were Pilot and Herod. Their personal envy and hatred quite subsides, and makes room for the more enlarged sentiment of bitter opposition to the truth that disturbs them—the advocates of it, and those measures which would bring the craft into danger. The cry seems to be among the latter day clergy, [of whom the prophets have warned us,] “these that have turned the world upside down have come hither also, and they will, unless efficiently opposed and successfully misrepresented, take away both our name and nation.” HST April 17, 1844, page 82.12
The ladies, who are prone to be doing either a great deal of good, or a great deal of evil, have been quite zealous in their attempts to have the Gospel supported by the getting up of attractive feasts and fairs, as if God’s cause could not be supported without worshipping mammon. HST April 17, 1844, page 82.13
And among the festivals that have enlivened our city during the past winter, must be mentioned, that of the renowned St. Peter’s Church, as it was there that a very interesting union of sentiment took place among the clergy of no less than seven denominational societies. All, before the cry, “Fear God and give glory to him, for the hour of his judgment is come,” at swords points among themselves, now pacified into unity by the unwelcome and afflictive sound that falls so discordantly on their ears. HST April 17, 1844, page 82.14
See then the brilliantly illuminated and gorgeously decorated church, filled with a most interesting assembly on the appointed evening. All is gaity and good cheer—there is the supper arranged for the epicure’s eye—there is the music for the ear—in short the senses are tempted for the good of our church.—Do evil that good may come, is the motto for the evening. How very like the old fashioned husking bees, these church festivals are—quite as much hilarity and making merry without the redeeming simplicity—in the former the farmers would get together and help each other to husk their corn, and partake of a repast after the work was done—but here the labor is to “eat, drink and be merry,” to earn money for the church by the indulgence of appetite! How fallen from primitive simplicity! What would our Puritan ancestors have said could they, in prophetic vision, have seen these things! Would they not have expressed their sorrow and abhorrence of the unchristian feasts in the language of the prophets, “Oh that mine head were waters and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughters of my people.” For God has said, They shall roar together like lions: they shall yell as lion’s whelps. In their heat (of roaring) I will make their feasts, and I will make them drunken; that they may rejoice and sleep a perpetual sleep, and not wake, saith the Lord. My people go ye out of the midst of her, (Babylon) and deliver ye every man his soul, from the fierce anger of the Lord,” Jeremiah 1. The words of the Lord are, that he will “deliver my people out of your hand (daughters of Babylon) and they shall be no more in your hand to be hunted: and ye shall know that I am the Lord. Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad: and strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked ways, by promising him life: therefore ye shall see no more vanity, nor divine divination: for I will deliver my people out of your hand; and ye shall know that I am the Lord.” Ezekiel 13. HST April 17, 1844, page 82.15
But the feast of which we are speaking was held at St. Peter’s, the Methodist Church—Presiding Elder, Rev. Dr. Proudfit. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.1
The following clergymen were present:— HST April 17, 1844, page 83.2
Rt. Rev. Bishop Black, of the Episcopal church, HST April 17, 1844, page 83.3
Elder White, “Baptist” HST April 17, 1844, page 83.4
Rev. Dr. Green, “Presbyterian” HST April 17, 1844, page 83.5
Professor Brown, D. D. “Congregationalist HST April 17, 1844, page 83.6
Rev. Mr. Evans, “Universalist” HST April 17, 1844, page 83.7
Father O’Connor, “Catholic” HST April 17, 1844, page 83.8
At an early hour the assembly began to come together, and as some individuals, desirous of getting the clergy together, had given them tickets, with pressing invitations, they are introduced one by one. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.9
Prof. Brown, the Congregationalist, is first introduced to the Rev. Dr. Proudfit, when the following conversation ensues. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.10
Dr. Proudfit. Happy to see you Prof. Brown. You are right welcome to this festive scene. How truly are the words of the prophet verified, that in the last days the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and all nations shall flow unto it. These are the prosperous times for the church. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.11
Prof. Brown. They are so indeed, if we may judge of the interest in religion from the festivals in our churches. I suppose this is the way the Millenium is to be ushered in—by these enthusiastic expressions of opinion on the subject of religion. The people seem to say with one consent, “Out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.” A very general presentiment of a glorious age has taken possession of the Church. and aside from the undoubted Bible testimony in the case, I ask if this is not proof that it will be so? God would not disappoint and confound so many good Christians, right in the face of the world, by ordering it otherwise, as the lookers for the Lord suppose. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.12
Dr. Proudfit. Certainly not, you are right, my brother. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.13
Prof. Brown. I have been particularly interested in your new work, “Death of Millerism.” It is really refreshing now and then to get hold of a work where the arguments are so conclusive. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.14
Dr. Proudfit. I am glad you are pleased with it—what do you think of the project of having it sold at the fair to-night? HST April 17, 1844, page 83.15
Prof. Brown. Excellent! Excellent! you will then build up you church in two ways—By getting money for the sale of the book and by putting down error. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.16
Dr. Proudfit. You have expressed my views exactly. I have been particularity interested in reading, in the last Tribune, a beautiful and eloquent oration of Dr. Bacon, your great congregational light, delivered at the immense gathering of the Whigs at the Tabernacle in New York city, last week. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.17
Prof. Brown. Charming! was it not? HST April 17, 1844, page 83.18
Dr. Proudfit. I pronounce it inimitable. In chasteness of style, and vigor of language it is not excelled by any production of the day. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.19
(Enter Rev. Dr. Green, Presbyterian.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.20
Prof. Brown. Ah brother, how are you? Dr. Green, Dr. Proudfit. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.21
Both shaking hands—how are you Sir? how are you Sir? HST April 17, 1844, page 83.22
Prof. Brown. We were just speaking of the Whig address, in a late number of the Tribune. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.23
Dr. Green. Splendid effort that, decidedly. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.24
Dr. Proudfit. Introduced so beautifully. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose. Just taking the words out of the mouth of those who would insidiously say, that there was not a time for an ambassador of Christ to give a Political oration. Capital! HST April 17, 1844, page 83.25
Dr Green. It is highly gratifying that Dr. Bacon taken the ground he does, now, when there is so much heart failing and perplexity among the people. It will have the effect to calm the public mind, by considering that the age has its “great duty to perform—its great purpose to achieve—its great problems to solve—its great truths to proclaim.” HST April 17, 1844, page 83.26
Dr. Brown. Yes, and he so ingeniously alludes to the truth so much battled in these days, that the earth will long remain, and that there is much glory in store for the nations of the earth. He thus beautifully expresses it, “The first great epoch was in our history like the chain of the Alleghanies.” “The present brings us to a longer, wider and loftier range. We are scaling the summit of a Rockey mountain chain, whence we look back over the broad valleys and turbid rivers we have traversed, to the peaks on which our fathers stood, now brightening with the rays of our late day, and beyond them to the ocean of time past, while before us is the vaster illimitable sea of time to come!” What, I ask can be more truly sublime than that? HST April 17, 1844, page 83.27
Dr Proudfit. It deserves to be stereotyped. on every soul under heaven. What a death blow to Millerism. How can any one in his senses, after hearing such an assertion from such a quarter, dream longer of the speedy destruction of this world? HST April 17, 1844, page 83.28
Dr. Green. How can any one ever dream of it at all when “all things remain as they were from the beginning,” when from the dealings of Providence, and the unfailing indications of the times, we can see that the project of this age (of the church) is now accomplished in a moral renovation and not a physical change. But these vain delusions will soon. I am happy to say, pass away and be forgotten “like the baseless fabric of a vision, and leave not a wreck behind.” HST April 17, 1844, page 83.29
(Here they are interupted by a burst of martial music from the band.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.30
Prof. Brown. Very appropriate this music, I consider. It is in good keeping with the purpose, time and place, and will give the people an idea of the victory our church is achieving. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.31
Dr. Proudfit True, True, (aside, our Church, he should have said, we are 3,000,000 strong and rapidly increasing, our Church will gain the victory) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.32
Dr. Green. (Aside, our Church truly! The Presbyterian Church, he should have said, as that is destined to be the true Millenium church, having already upwards of 3,000,000 communicants, and is, with unprecedented strides, marching on to universal dominion.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.33
(Enter boy, peddling tracts opposed to the Advent.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.34
Dr. Proudfit. Ah gentlemen, here are the jewels! These are the little messengers that will bring people back to reason and to duty. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.35
Dr. Green. Ha! Ha! happy thought of yours to get out this valuable little work just as the ladies of your congregation got up the fair. Quite opportune. Truly comme il faut! HST April 17, 1844, page 83.36
Dr. Proudfit. Why yes, I hope so. I always was accused of having an appropos way of doing things. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.37
(The music continues. Gaily dressed and fashionable people continue to crowd in.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.38
Drs. Green, Proudfit and Brown seat themselves at an oyster table. While in another part of the apartment are seen Elder White, Rev. Mr. Evans, Bishop Black, and Father O’Connor mingling in the crowd, evidently highly pleased with the attractions of the evening. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.39
(At the repast the subject is resumed.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.40
Dr. Proudfit. Such are the delusions of the times, so many have wandered away from my Church, that I felt I could not remain longer without expressing my views, and be guiltless. I have not gone into the theological merits of the question of the Advent, for time will most effectually and convincingly dispose of that—but I have held up to light some of the most prominent characteristics—the most striking features, so as to provoke as much disgust as possible in the minds of the people. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.41
Dr. Green. Right, right; I hesitate not to say that you have the correct view on the subject. We have all of us suffered so much in a pecuniary point of view from this Millerism, that I am sure we should hail any antidote that promises to abate its wild fury. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.42
Dr. Proudfit. I do not say but the end may be very near, even at the door. We ought always to be ready for death and the Lord’s coming—still neither is to be courted. We are guilty as if we committed suicide, if we wish either to come. My opposition to Millerism is not so much because I know that the Lord cannot come this year, as that I think the believers of the doctrine are a poor mean set of people: and presumptuous in the extreme. “Altogether born in sin, are they to teach us?” My position is, that the Miller theory does not prove that the Lord is at the very door—that the arguments urged by the advocates of it, furnish no more reason to expect it, than we should have without. At least they have no influence to produce conviction in my mind. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.43
Dr. Green. I may say that I fully concur in your views—yet it must be admitted, that since we are commanded to give heed to the sure word of prophecy, “as to a light that shineth in a dark place,” the devout study of this part of the divine oracles is to be commended where there is sufficient knowlenge of the original to justify a search into the hidden mysteries. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.44
Dr. Brown. Very true. In order to get at the occult and double sense of prophecy, it is necessary to be well skilled in the languages, for “the wise shall understand,” not the unlettered—and prophecy, as a general thing, cannot be understood until fulfilled, hence it seems a waste of labor to “take heed to the sure word of prophecy,” beyond a given extent. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.45
Dr. Green. If I mistake not, our views of the Little Horn in Daniel 7:25, are about the same. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.46
Dr. Brown. Undoubtedly, I believe that horn speaks great words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his bond, until a time, and times and the dividing of time. The first passage is so clear as to leave no reasonable doubt. In verse 24, the rise of Antiochus Epiphanes is described. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.47
(Enter Father O’Conner.) HST April 17, 1844, page 83.48
Father O’C. Glad to hear you say that—you express my views exactly. We are brethren. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.49
Prof. Brown. Antiochus Epiphanes is represented: for the 4th beast described in Daniel 7:7, 8, 11, 19 to 26, as all must concede, is the divided Grecian dominion of Alexander the great. From this dynasty springs Antiochus, verse 24; as one who shall speak great words against the Most High, etc. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.50
Dr. Green. Just my sentiments. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.51
Father O C. I cheerfully concur in the same. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.52
Dr. Proudfit. Most appropriate construction. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.53
Dr. Green. It must be admitted that the prophetic numbers of that apostle of prophecy, Mr. Miller, are correct. Pity a man of his splendid mind, to cap the climax, could not have hit upon the real event which is to transpire, “at the end of the days,” viz., that it is to be a moral renovation, instead of a physical destruction. Peter’s account in his 2nd Epistle, 3rd chapter, does not convince me, as it has done many well meaning, but easily deluded minds, that literal fire is to be employed in the purification of this earth—that must be spiritually understood. It is to be interpreted with a great deal of limitation. HST April 17, 1844, page 83.54
I will allow that the exposition of the 2300 days in Daniel, according to the Adventists, is right. But we are to look for an entirely different event from what they teach us. And although they give the Scripture for it, we must remember, that the Bible is a highly metaphorical book, and to be spiritually and figuratively understood. For example, where Peter speaks, in his 2 Epistle, of the old world being overflown with water, it must be a figure in order to permit us to understand the next verse figuratively, “The heavens and the earth which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire, against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.” This is a grand moral renovation. The exposition of the dates of the Adventists are right, and the earth is to be renovated at the end of the prophetic periods, by “gradual steps,” and a “new order of things, intellectual, political, and moral,” to be introduced. “Although there is doubtless a sense in which Christ may be said to come, in connection 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” These are the views of the Rev. Geo. Bush, Prof. of Hebrew and Oriental literature, in the New York city University, and I am happy fully to concur in his able and satisfactory explanation of the question at issue. This is the universal belief of the Christian world, with a few exceptions, and therefore must be the true one. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.1
Prof. Brown. I beg pardon—if you refer to the interpretation of the prophetic periods, it is not the belief of all Christians. Prof. Stuart, will not allow that a day stands for a year; he says, “It is a singular fact, that the great mass of interpreters in the English and American world have, for many years, been wont to understand the days designated in Daniel and the Apocalypse, as the representations, or symbols of years—and he has found it difficult to trace the origin of this general and almost universal custom.” It is evident, therefore, that the German religious world do not so receive the prophetic days, and as I believe we are commanded to be replenished from the east—it is the more amazing that all do not adopt the very valuable researches of the Orientals. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.2
(Enter Elder White and Rev. Mr. Evans.) HST April 17, 1844, page 84.3
Dr. Proudfit. We were comparing notes on the prophecies and giving the views of our respective churches. We should be pleased to hear of the views of your standard authors, gentlemen. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.4
Elder White. We shall agree in the essentials doubtless, that is, in proving by some means that the Adventists are wrong. Culver thinks decidedly that the unlearned cannot understand the Bible. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.5
Father O’C. I am fully of his opinion, it has ever been the teaching of the church. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.6
(Enter Rt. Rev. Bishop Black.) HST April 17, 1844, page 84.7
Bishop Black. We have been happily entertained, gentlemen in listening to your discourse, and can unhesitatingly say, that it is in accordance with the views of our church, that the people shall be in subjection to her expositions and views of the sadred page—but I will not interrupt the Elder. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.8
Elder White. Culver thinks the unlearned cannot understand the Bible—they must depend upon the “correct knowledge of Biblical interpretation,” which is only “intelligible to the intelligent.” HST April 17, 1844, page 84.9
Rev. Mr. Evans. True, true, but the Adventists, who are certainly very unreasonable, say, that “the intelligent” do not agree among themselves. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.10
Dr. Proudfit. They never could have the presumption to say that, if they were present this evening, and saw the “untramelled sociability,” which prevails among us in the amicable adjustment of our differences—never could they say it again, if they were aware with what a Christian spirit we “agree to disagree.” HST April 17, 1844, page 84.11
Elder White. It is true there is some little disagreement, but our standard authors all prove in their different ways that the end is not to be expected at all events. Culver says, the little horn is Nero. While professors Stuart and Chase, with Mr. Dowling, maintain quite as ably that it is Antiochus, a tributary Syrian prince. Culver agrees with Prof. Stuart, whose echo he is, that the 2300 days are literal days, not symbols of years, and they certainly make them come into the neighborhood of fitting Antiochus. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.12
Dowling also, who is prime Baptist authority, extensively believed in, and universally quoted, says, “sometimes we are to understand in prophetic language, a day for a year. I am willing to admit that we are so to interpret the seventy weeks, the forty and two months or 1260 days of Revelations, and probably the other periods named in the last chapter of Daniel. But there is a peculiarity of language employed in the original Hebrew of this term of 2300 days. It would be rendered literally 2300 evening mornings. (Heb. a-rav boker.) Thus is the Geneva version, deux mille et trois cents soirs et matins, i. e. 2300 mornings and evenings; and still more to my satisfaction in the Latin version of Junius and Tremellius, usque ad vespertina matutinaque tempora bis mille trecenta, i. e. unto 2300 morning and evening seasons. So that literal days or half days are meant. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.13
Rt. Rev. Bishop Black. (Aside.) Profound, truly, when we use a little common sense, I remember that the evening and the morning were the first day.) HST April 17, 1844, page 84.14
Elder White. Professor Chase agrees with Mr. Dowling that the 2300 days are half days, and with him is enterprising enough to make them somewhere near fit Antiochus. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.15
Prof. Brown. Prof. Stowe of Cincinnati, in his interesting work, “The utter groundlessness of all Millenial Arithmetic,” agrees with Prof. Stuart that the prophets never use a day as the symbol of a year. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.16
Elder White. A very sensible and judicious conclusion. Extremely destructive to the Advent theory. The Rev. Nathaniel Culver (before named) holds the same intelligent views, and in his valuable pamphlet. “The Prophecy of Daniel Literally fulfilled,” he shows, to a demonstration, beyond all question to the intelligent, that the little horn mentioned in Daniel seventh, is no other than Nero, the Roman Emperor. For example, “A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: (the Ancient of days) thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set and the books were opened. This means, in Mr. Culver’s view, the death of Nero,—and he also very consistently maintains, that the time of trouble (Daniel 12:1, 2.) such as never was since there was a nation, even to that same time; when God’s people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book, is only a great national deliverance of the Jews. That helps to dispose of the resurrection, for in the same connection we read. “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall wake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.” HST April 17, 1844, page 84.17
Rev. Mr. Evans. Those are the views in which we can fully concur. The Jews have been quite too much neglected by Christians generally. I am disposed to give them the greater part of the predictions of the prophets—as well as much of the New Testament, particularly all of the 24th of Matthew, the great key stone of the Second Advent. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.18
Father O’C. But I have been particularly interested in remarking the striking coincidence of views brought to light in this discussion. That the learned author of the “Exposition of the Prophecies supposed by Wm. Miller to predict the Second coming of Christ in 1843,” should adopt and do homage to the opinion of Jahn, my father in the Catholic faith, is in the highest degree gratifying. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.19
Elder White. To what do you refer! I do not understand—Jahn! Jahn! the name is familiar. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.20
Father O’C. Rev. J. Jahn, Professor of Oriental Language, and Biblical Archeology in the University at Vienna. Well known in all the Theological Seminaries in the world, as his works are allowed by all Protestants to be invaluable. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.21
Dr. Green. Great writer, decidedly. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.22
Prof. Brown. Throws great light upon the Scriptures. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.23
Bishop Black. His erudite works are in accordance with the teachings of our church. Great religious light unquestionably. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.24
Dr. Proudfit. Certainly, of course—these eastern writers, seem destined to bear the palm in theology. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.25
Rev. Mr. Evans. We read in the times of great prosperity to the church, that it “shall be replenished from the east.” Isaiah 2. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.26
Father O’C. Very true, and I may add very true to nature—the solar light—the source of life and heat rises from the east and illuminates the west, and so it seems to be a figure of the great moral light which is beaming on this western world from the east. But, the passage to which I referred in the exposition of which Mr. Dowling has followed Prof. Jahn, is the following—It is the Hebrew phrase found in Daniel 8:14, “Ad creb boker alpagim ushelosh meoth,” unto two thousand three hundred days,” should be rendered two thousand three hundred evening and morning sacrifices. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.27
Prof. Brown. But I could not receive such an interpretation, except in an emergency as a last extremity: The Adventists say, with the right use of common sense, that a day is made up of evening and morning, for the evening and the morning were the first day. Another thing, Prof Stuart, (who is great in the Hebrew) does not deem the position tenable, consequently I cannot lay much stress upon it, much as I would like to agree with my brethren. Prof. Stuart, it must be admitted, is the great apostle of interpretation. He it was that first started the bold theory, that a day does not stand for a year, in opposition to all the old lights of the Protestant Church, for instance, Wesley, Scott, Fletcher, Kirby, the learned and venerable Joseph Mede, Faber, Prideaux, Eeith, Dr. Hales, Sir Isaac Newton and Bishop Newton, all standard Protestant commentators. No ordinary man would have the independence to make such movement. He doubtless was wise and far sighted to see that if the point, a day for a year, was admitted, we must also receive the belief of most of the authors I have just mentioned, with that of the Adventists that the Lord is to appear about this era of time. Consequently the stream being interrupted by the Prof. near the fountain, it takes another course. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.28
Rt. Rev. Bishop Black. This is a season of viality highly gratifying. I propose that we adjourn from the theological world for a little while; and enjoy this happy scene. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.29
Dr. Proudfit. Certainly, gentlemen—excuse me, If agreeable I shall be happy to see you at my house to-morrow, when we will continue our conversation. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.30
All. Most happy to call on you. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.31
(The Rev. Clergy join in the hilarity of the scene, and after a most charming evening disperse at 10 o’clock. They close with a short prayer from Prof. Brown, who prays that the world may be converted and the Millenium be ushered in.) HST April 17, 1844, page 84.32
To be continued.
Advent Herald & Reporter
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, APRIL 17, 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 April 17, 1844, page 84.33
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 April 17, 1844, page 84.34
Subscribers’ names with the State and Post Office should be distinctly given when money is forwarded. Where the Post Office is not given, we are liable to misdirect the paper, or credit to the wrong person, as there are often several of the same name, or several Post Offices in the same town. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.35
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES on which the SECOND ADVENT CAUSE IS BASED
I.—The word of God teaches that this earth is to be regenerated, in the restitution of all things, and restored to its Eden state as it came from the hand of its Maker before the fall, and is to be the eternal abode of the righteous in their resurrection state. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.36
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 April 17, 1844, page 84.37
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 April 17, 1844, page 84.38
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 April 17, 1844, page 84.39
V.—There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, extending beyond the [Jewish] year 1843. HST April 17, 1844, page 84.40
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 April 17, 1844, page 84.41
False Teachers the anti-types of the False Prophets
2 Peter 2:1-3. “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the (“coming of the”) Lord that brought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction; and MANY shall follow their pernicious ways, by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of; and through covetousness shall they, with feigned words make merchandize of you; whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.” HST April 17, 1844, page 84.42
It would seem, from this, that immediately preceding the time when the damnation of those who cause the way of truth to be evil spoken of, slumbereth not, there are to be false teachers like the false prophets. It follows, then, that those false prophets were the types; while the false teachers are their anti-types. By turning back to the writings of those “holy men of God,” who “spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost,” we find that the Lord’s Prophets were continually warning men of the impending judgments, and admonishing the people to be prepared for them: on the other hand, the false prophets were continually crying “peace and safety.” It therefore follows that the false teachers, the anti-types of the false prophets, would not be found in the ranks of those teachers who warn the world of the approach of predicted judgments: but, among those, who in view of such predictions, assure the people of “peace and safety;” and Paul assures us that “when they shall say peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh.” HST April 17, 1844, page 84.43
By again referring to the false prophets, we find them prophesying the failure of the vision. Ezekiel 12:21-23. “And the word of the Lord came unto me saying, Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, “The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth?” This proverb of the false prophets is responded to by their anti-types, the false teachers, of whom Peter predicted, 2 Epistle 3:3, 4, that “there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, where is the promise of his coming?” We are at no loss to find those who are thus inquiring at the present moment, and proclaiming that the days are prolonged, and that the vision has failed. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.1
To all such we would say, as the Lord commanded Ezekiel 12:23-25, “Tell them therefore, thus saith the Lord God; I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel: but say unto them, the days are at hand and the effect of every vision. For there shall be no more any vain vision nor flattering divination in the house of Israel: for I am the Lord; I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall no more be prolonged, for in your days, O rebellious house, will I say the word, and will perform it, saith the Lord God.” HST April 17, 1844, page 85.2
Again; another class of false prophets were continually deferring the accomplishment of events to some future time, as in Ezekiel 12:26, 27. “Again the word of the Lord come to me, saying, son of man, behold, they of the house of Israel say, the vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times afar off.” As were the types in this respect, so also must be their antitypes, predicted by Peter. We accordingly find a numerous company who, like those of old, say that the scenes which are about to be consummated have reference to the days after the millenium: while by others they are indefinitely postponed. To such we may also say in the language of the prophet Ezekiel 12:28. “Therefore say unto them, thus saith the Lord God, there shall none of my words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done, saith the Lord God. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.3
Another class of the false prophets we find by Ezekiel 20:49, were continually saying, “Ah, Lord God! doth not he speak parables?” These we find responded to in the Neological teachers of our day, who make the Bible mean just about nothing at all. Thus we might go on with all the classes of false prophets; and we should find that in every respect Peter’s prediction had proved true; and that as there were false prophets among the people, even so are there false teachers now. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.4
“Will you give it up Now?”
This is the question which we now hear from every opposing mouth. “Well, the 21st of March has gone by, and will you give it up now?” Give up what? we inquire. “Why, this Millerism,” say they. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.5
Yes, we will give up any thing, you will show us is wrong: for it is truth, and not error, we seek.—But what do you mean by “Millerism?” HST April 17, 1844, page 85.6
Will you give up that the Lord will not come in ‘43? HST April 17, 1844, page 85.7
We will give up that the Lord has not come yet, and that he will not come between March 21st ‘43 and March 21st, ‘44—Mr. Miller’s published time. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.8
But will you not give up the idea of Christ’s coming? HST April 17, 1844, page 85.9
No: we can never give up that blessed hope.—No. Never. It was that for which faithful Abraham looked; he saw the day of Christ afar off and was glad, with his seed, also, as many as the stars of the sky, and as the sand upon the sea-shore, innumerable, the heirs with him of the same promise, who all died in the faith of a glorious resurrection, when they should come in to possess the promised land. It was the faith of the whole house of Israel, who died with the promise that God would open their graves, cause them to come up out of their graves, and place them in the land of Israel, when he should gather them out of all countries, sprinkle clean water upon them, and cleanse them from all their inquities, and from all their transgressions. It was the faith of holy Job, that at the latter day, he should see God in the flesh, when the wicked should be chased out of the world. It was the faith of Isaiah, who, with eager anticipations looked forward to the time when his dead body should arise. It was the faith of Moses and Gideon, of Barak, of Samson, and of Jeptha, of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets, who would not accept of deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. In this faith the holy apostles and goodly army of martyrs fell asleep in Jesus, who counted not their lives dear unto them in view of the crown of rejoicing they are to receive in the day of the Lord Jesus. It was the faith of the reformers, who took their lives in their hands, that they might escape the corruptions of Papacy. Yea, in all ages of the world, those of this faith have suffered bonds and imprisonments, have been stoned and sawn asunder, have been tempted and slain with the sword, have wandered about in sheep-skins and goat-skins, in deserts and mountains, in caves and dens of the earth, being destitute, afflicted, tormented, of whom the world was not worthy, and who received not the promise, God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect. Seeing, then, we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, we purpose to continue to look for the coming of Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.10
Well, says the tempter, admit that the Lord will come some time or other, but will you not give up looking for him now? HST April 17, 1844, page 85.11
By no means. We are commanded to live in continual readiness and watchfulness, for his coming; and to lay down our watch for a single hour, would not be heeding the injunctions of our Savior, and that day might overtake us as a thief. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.12
But will you not give up that you know nothing about when the Lord will come? HST April 17, 1844, page 85.13
By no means. The scriptures, which were written for our learning, and which we are to search and give heed to have given us the most prominent events with their order, which were to transpire previous to the last day; and history shows the fulfillment of every event which was to precede the judgment; the prophetic periods, reckoned in accordance with the most approved chronologers and the standard Protestant commentators, bring us down to about this time; and the signs of the times, the predicted precursors of that day, all testify that it is at the very doors, and cannot be long delayed. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.14
Then you will not relinquish your notions about the prophecies and the prophetic periods? HST April 17, 1844, page 85.15
We have had as yet no occasion to. The prophetic periods have been interpeted as we understand them, in accordance with the universal consent of all the English and American commentators, as our opponents themselves allow; and, in the interpretation of the prophecies, we have not departed from what our fathers and the reformers understood respecting them. It is our opponents who have departed from the “standard interpretations,” and “long established opinions,” which “have been supposed to be settled beyond a doubt.” They have given up their old opinions, and have departed from the faith: we stand on the same ground that the evangelical church has ever occupied. Our opponents have thus far failed to point out any essential error in our views. The doctrine of a terrene Millenium has been exploded and scattered to the wind; the fabled restoration of the carnal Jews has been shown to have no place in the Word of God. The fourth beast has never been disproved to be the fourth kingdom; and the connection between the 8th and 9th of Daniel,—the latter an explanation of the former—has never been invalidated. Sneers, and scoffs, and sarcasm, and ridicule, and falsehood have been hurled upon us in thick profusion, but the word of God still standeth sure: our arguments have remained untouched. While, therefore, we are frank to acknowledge a disappointment in the exact time, our faith is unwavering respecting the reality of these events being already to burst upon us at any moment. And this we can never give up. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.16
Another “Prophet.”
By a notice in the “Mail” of Thursday, April 4, of “A new reading of the Prophecies,” by “the Rev. Mr. Shimeall,” which we are told was read in one of the pulpits in our city, on Fast day, with this remark by the officiating clergyman—“That is just right,”—it appears that Mr. S. has predicted that the “final subversion” of the Millerites “will take place between the spring and fall equinoxes of A. D. 1844.” HST April 17, 1844, page 85.17
It also appears by this notice that Mr. S. “has published a sermon,” the text of which is taken from Daniel 2:14, “Also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision, but they shall fall.” The design of this sermon, it appears, is to show that “the rise, progress and failure of these prognosticators (not only Mr. Miller, but all other modern expositors, from Profs. Stuart, and Bush, and Bishop Hopkins, down to Mother Ann Lee, Matthias and Joe Smith,) are predicted by Daniel and the Revelator.” HST April 17, 1844, page 85.18
So it seems that the “Rev. Mr. Shimeall” has placed himself fairly among the “prognosticators,” in reference to “Millerism.” Others have predicted that we should “burn our Bibles,” “turn infidels,” “put off the time,” etc., after 1843, but we believe all these have failed; and now we have a prediction that their final subversion is to occur as early as “the Fall equinox of 1844. Really, we begin to think “the public,” will take it for granted that this “Millerism” which has been “dying” and “dead” so long and so often, is to live forever! (so we think at any rate) or will they look upon the “predictions” of Mr. S. to be like those of Mad. Adolphe, “predictions of the past” as well as the “present and the future.” HST April 17, 1844, page 85.19
It is, however, remarkable that a man who claims to be so well acquainted with the prophecies as Mr. S. should apply a portion of Daniel to this age of the world, for the sake of “beating” the Millerites, which all the old, as well as the new writers on Daniel, have applied to events which took place more than one hundred years before Christ. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.20
It is also remarkable that he should charge the Millerites with having “declared the covenant” (with Abraham) “abrogated, and robbed God’s people of their inheritance.” HST April 17, 1844, page 85.21
The Millerites declare no such thing, they have committed no such robbery. Br. S. may need to be a little cautious, or he will find himself among the “ false teachers” of the last times. We say to him and to all others in his line, “Do thyself no harm!” H. HST April 17, 1844, page 85.22
Who would love to see the Lord
By the delay which there has been in the termination of the prophetic periods, we are enabled to know who would have loved to have the Lord come. While all the sneers, and witticisms, and scorn, and contempt are breathed forth by the unbelieving, yet, not a soul who would have been saved had the Lord appeared, will ever be seen to point their finger or curl their lip, by way of rejoicing over the disappointment of those who loved the Lord’s appearing. Every true child of God would rather shed a tear, that the Bridegroom should tarry. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.1
No one will question the soundness of this test.—And yet this applied to the churches, and religious press, and how sad would be the result! HST April 17, 1844, page 86.2
Cause and Effect
Some of the Religious papers seem to have very crude perceptions of the relation of cause and effect: or else they desire to shake off every consistent Advent subscriber from their respective papers, and Advent believers from the various churches.—Those papers who take a decided stand in opposition to the doctrine of the speedy coming of the Lord, like the Christian Herald, Christian Secretary Puritan, Trumpet, and Olive Branch, manifest any thing but love for the Lord’s appearing, or friendship for those who are looking for the Lord. We have received several communications on this subject, from those who have done much to sustain the different papers, but who have been obliged, in consequence, to withdraw all present aid from them. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.3
Continual Watchfulness
“And what I say unto you, I say unto all, watch.” HST April 17, 1844, page 86.4
If it was necessary, in the days of the apostles, that they should continually watch for the coming of the Lord, how much more important it is that we live continually in the same waiting attitude, living as we do on the very verge of the judgment. Unless we take heed to ourselves that day will yet overtake us unawares; so let us pray always that we may be guarded from all the wiles of the Devil. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.5
At this time the Adversary will be more than ever active, as he knows his time is short; and we shall encounter new and various forms of his attempts to throw us from our watch. It becomes us therefore that we look to God continually to give us wisdom from on high, and grace to guide us; so that whether temptations come from within or without, whether Satan appears as a friend or as an-enemy, he may not find the citadal unguarded. It is of the utmost importance that we continually watch our every thought, and word, and action, and avoid the dangers on the right hand, as well as those on the left. We need to continue in an humble and devout frame of mind, manifesting in every daily walk, all the fruits of the Spirit, and giving no place to the allurements of the Devil. We need to cultivate a spirit of forbearance toward all secret or avowed enemies, returning all their malice with love, and looking to God to turn them to himself. We need to keep our eyes continually fixed on the end of our hope, the appearing of the Lord: for one of Satan’s wiles, is always to present some false issue, if by any means he may cause some to turn back to perdition. We need fervent charity towards all men, speaking the truth in all plainness and sincerity. We need to labor with redoubled dilligence for the souls of those about us, showing them, by humble and godly lives and conversation, that ou hope is a present good, as well as future glory. We need to live at Jesus’ feet, and avoid every thing that may be a reproach on the cause of God, or peril the souls of men. And we should remember that the eyes of a world are upon us, and many may be saved or lost, as the lives of believers commend the religion of Jesus. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.6
The Cry in England
Some of the most learned and able works which have been given to the world in our age, on the prophecies, have been furnished by our English brethren. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.7
On the nature of the events predicted,—that the Advent is to be personal—that the earth, renewed, is to be the future and everlasting abode of the glorified saints—that all the prophecies which relate to the history of the world, and the signs of the times are now fulfilled, and of course the day is at hand,—on all these points their writings have almost invariably been of the most scriptural, eloquent and impressive character. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.8
Some of them also agree with us in the termination of the prophetic periods. But their remarkably unscriptural notion of the natural Jews, (that they are to be restored to their own land) has, as we might expect, an almost fatal neutralizing effect upon these parts of truth. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.9
We have been much gratified in receiving, by a late arrival, a publication of a more satisfactory character. It is entitled “The Voice of Warning, to this Nation and to the world, or the Second Advent of Christ; by E. Micklewood. Tadcaster, Yorkshire, Dec. 1843. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.10
After quoting at length the “First Principles of the Second Advent Faith,” as published by us, (S. A. Lib. No, 43,) he speaks of them as as follows:— HST April 17, 1844, page 86.11
“Such are the views of our American brethren, and I see in these, yet, no clash of doctrines, no discordance of meaning, therefore am disposed to hold and maintain the same.” HST April 17, 1844, page 86.12
The “Warning” closes with this very suitable and affectionate appeal. H. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.13
“See my friends, the position in which you stand—on the very thresh-hold of your everlasting salvation or damnation; and since Almighty God has favored me, his servant, with this clear understanding of his revealed will, and made me the harbinger of warning to (I hope) many thousands, hear me out, and I do most positively assure you, that this is the kind of warning which you may expect, and this only: Read Matthew 25:1-14, and be assured that now the midnight cry is raised ‘Behold the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him.’ Paganism has fallen, Popery is fallen, Mahomedanism is fallen, and they only require to be gathered together, with all the wicked to the final scene of struggle, and all is over; I warn you further, that if you prepare to meet the Bridgroom, you shall be caught up out of the way of the conflict, and be forever with the Lord; but if you do not prepare, it will be said of you immediately, ‘be that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy let him be filthy still:’ and you will be ‘shut out’ forever.” HST April 17, 1844, page 86.14
“Allow me, finally, to lay before you the clear events to be fulfilled immediately upon the wicked in this third woe, that is just upon us.” HST April 17, 1844, page 86.15
“The seventh trumpet sounds at the beginning of the third and last wo, and then the saints, both quick and dead, are gathered home, and admitted into the New Jerusalem, to the marriage supper of the Lamb. Ch 10:7. 1 Corinthians 15:51, 52. 1 Thessalonians 4:15, 18. Then the overwhelming and universal woe descends upon the wicked. But the process of sealing the servants of God in their foreheads is even now going forward, ch 7:1-9, and Daniel’s visions which reach to the spring of 1844, indicate a speedy end; but do not think the danger past should not the end arrive in spring, for the evidence is sufficiently strong to show that it is even at the door, and we may even die before it come, though it were distant but a day or an hour; beside which, salvation is always best to live with, and therefore cannot be wrong now. Oh think, my dear friends; think before it be too late; make haste aud come to Christ before you be cast out forever.” HST April 17, 1844, page 86.16
The Cry of Peace.—“All who have doubts of their final salvation are requested to write to us, and state the circumstances from which their doubts arise, and we will endeavor to give them peace. If there is any thing that gives us real comfort, it is the reflection that we have been instrumental, in the hands of God, of extracting the sting of sorrow from some few hearts. This is the appropriate duty of a minister of Jesus. ‘Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.’”—Universalist Trumpet. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.17
“For when they shall cry peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, and they shall not escape.”—St. Paul. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.18
Hard to deal with
The churches are greatly troubled with these “Millerites.” And not the least of their trouble, is the fact, that the committees which are usually sent to deal with their “deluded brethren,” find themselves so utterly ignorant of the prophetic scriptures, that their mouths are closed, and they are put to silence by those whom they hoped to silence. We have heard many amusing cases of this nature. An instance occurred not a thousand miles from Boston:—A committee having found themselves unable to defend their unbelief by the Bible, and having very little reason at their command, were dismissed, and a more “intelligent” committee sent, consisting of the minister and one of his leading men. On the first visit, after a little conversation, the minister remarked to his delegate, that it was surprising how sophistically these “Millerites” would pervert scripture. Why, said he, when God promised that the children of Israel should possess the land of Canaan, don’t you think the Millerites claim that it was a promise to Abraham that he should possess it! But, said the sister, is there no promise that Abraham himself shall possess that land? No, said he, not in the Bible. But said the sister, does not Stephen, in Acts 7:5, say that God gave Abraham none inheritance in that land, no, not so much as to set his foot on; and yet promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him? Why do you not see, said the minister, that it expressly says it was promised to his seed after him? True was the reply, but it is also promised to him as well as them, and he with them will come up and possess it. There, you see, replied the minister, it is useless to argue with them. Here is a plain declaration of scripture, that the promise was to Abraham’s seed, and yet she will have it, that it was given to Abraham. We must cut her off as a withered branch. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.19
A Nut for Mr. Culver
If the resurrection spoken of in Daniel 12:2., has reference to the final Judgment, why does Mr. Culver in his learned illustrations of Daniel’s prophecy apply it to the times of Antiochus? HST April 17, 1844, page 86.20
Again, If it has reference only to the times of Antiochus, why does Mr. Culver in the articles of faith of his church, quote it as one of his proof texts to establish the resurrection at the last day? HST April 17, 1844, page 86.21
Again. If Mr. Culver can apply a passage of scripture to one thing on one occasion, and to its opposite on another, when he wishes to oppose the doctrine of Christ’s immediate advent, what assurance have we, that for the same purpose, he would not with the same facility dispose of every proof text in his articles of faith; or even in the Bible itself? If he can blow hot and cold at the same time, is he to be trusted as an expositor of prophecy? HST April 17, 1844, page 86.22
The above queries will be “intelligible to the intelligent.” Will Mr. Culver solve them? We shall see. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.23
Special Notice to Subscribers
Individuals are frequently sending us notices in regard to their paper, simply furnishing their names, omitting the town and State, which causes us much trouble. As our alphabet has reference to towns only and not to names, when a subscriber sends a notice, and omits the town and state, we are at a loss where to find it, and cannot, without looking our books, all over, when would occupy a day at least. Our friends will please hear this in mind. HST April 17, 1844, page 86.24
Office Agent. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.1
Obituary
Fell asleep in Jesus at South Gardner, in hope of a glorious resurrection, on the 6th of March, Anne Perley, aged 52; and on the 25th of March, her husband, Allen Perley, aged 61. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.2
They both died full in the faith of the speedy Advent of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to raise the righteous dead and change the living, and to clothe them with immortal glory. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.3
Advent Depot. Friends in Worcester and vicinity, will find our Books and Publications at the shop of Witherbee & Warden, one door North of the U. S. Hotel, Main St. Worcester. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.4
Eld. Elon Galusha’s Address, as published in our last, is now printed on an extra sheet, and for sale at 50 cents per hundred, or $4 per thousand. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.5
Letter from Bro. Litch
We are unable to see with Bro. Litch how the time can expire before the events, or before the present spring, our reasons for which have been previously given. We however agree with Bro. L. in having no definite time in the future. We believe the events will be delayed only such time as human reckoning may vary from God’s time. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.6
WHERE ARE WE?
Philadelpaia, March 28, 1844. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.7
Dear Br. Himes:—While the brethren have freely given their views of the prophetic periods, and especially of the ending of the 2300 days of Daniel 8:14, for a year past I have forborne to say any thing through the press, because I thought quite enough had already been said, and a sufficient variety of views were before the public. But I have had my own views, and freely expressed them in my preaching and conversation; and on the coming events, I have given my views in writing to the public. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.8
The prophetic times, as we have understood them, may now be fairly considered as at an end. Bro. Miller’s time which was between March 21st, 1843, and March 21st, 1844, is gone. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.9
I will now come to what I wish to say. I now firmly believe, as I have for the last six years, that the 2300 days only reach to the spring of A. D. 1843, I think the anniversary of the ascension. I come to this conclusion:— HST April 17, 1844, page 87.10
I. Because the last event which was to take place in the 70 weeks, was the anointing of the Most Holy, or literally, the Holy of Holies, the Sanctum Sanctorum. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.11
The import of this service in the Tabernacle made by Moses in the wilderness, may be learned from Exodus 30:25-31. “And thou shall make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil. And thou shalt anoint the tabernacle of the congregation therewith, and the ark of the testimony, and the table and all his vessels, and the candlestick and his vessels, and the alter of incense, and the alter of burnt-offering with all his vessels, and the layer and his foot. And thou shalt sanctify them, that they may be most holy: whatsoever toucheth them shall be holy. And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister unto me in the priest’s office. And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations.” And from Leviticus 8:10-13, “And Moses took the anointing oil, and anointed the tabernacle, and all that was therein, and sanctified them. And he sprinkled thereof upon the altar seven times, and anointed the altar, and all his vessels, both the layer and his foot, to sanctify them. And he poured of the anointing oil upon Aaron’s head, and anointed him, to sanctify him. And Moses brought Aaron’s sons, and put coals upon them, and girded them with girdles, and put bonnets upon them; as the Lord commanded them.” HST April 17, 1844, page 87.12
This anointing took place immediately previous to and preparatory for the presentation of the blood of the sin offering in the holy place. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.13
That ark built by Moses, was a perfect pattern of the tabernacle in heaven, whither Christ is for us entered with his blood as the sin offering, which he shed without the camp. See Hebrews 7th to the 10th chapters. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.14
What, therefore, Moses and the High Priest did in the pattern, Christ our prophet and priest did in the true tabernacle, heaven itself. That must have been anointed immediately after his ascension into heaven, and before the Pentecost, because the peaceful answer then came, the evidence that he prevailed before the Mercy seat. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.15
2. It seems to me that the eclipse of the moon which immediately preceded the death of Herod the king, which was 1847 full years preceding the 13th of the present month, and must have been some months after the birth of Christ, proves that if he was not more than 30 when he began his ministry, the 69 weeks must have ended in A.D. 26. Then 30 years, the Savior’s age, when he commenced preaching, from 1847, leaves 1817. We now want 7 years more to make 70 weeks. Take this from 1817, and we have 1810 left, after the 70 weeks end. Then add the one week to A. D. 26, where the 69 ended, and we have A. D. 33, for the end of the 70 weeks of 490 years, which is just where Ferguson’s astronomical argument places the crucifixion. True, some doubt the correctness of that argument; but I have never seen sufficient evidence yet to skake my confidence in it in the least degree. If he was crucified in the spring of A. D. 33, and ascended into heaven 40 days after his resurrection and apointed the Holy of Holies, that is the last moment to which I can trace the 70 weeks. Leave that landmark as forming one extreme of the 70 weeks, and we are upon a wide sea without chart or compass. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.16
The only question now remaining to be settled, is, the meaning of the word midst. I freely admit all that is contended for as to the primary meaning of the word, signifying middle. But then I do not admit that it has that signification here. But the sense in which the word is used frequently in the Bible, is, within a thing The sense and subject requires this meaning in Daniel 9:27. “He shall confirm the covenant with many for one week and in the midst of the week,” within it, before it ends, “he shall cause the sacrifice and oblation to cease.” If this was done at his crucifixion, 43 days before he ascended, it would be in the midst of the week. The fact that the Holy of Holies was to be anointed as the last thing in the week, shows that the period could not be protracted three and a half years after that was done. I believe that anointing marked the last hour of 490 exact years from the decree to restore and build Jerusalem. And that 1810 full years from that event, which ended in May, 1843, A. D. terminated the 2300 years, and the Justification or pardon of the Sanctuary or Jerusalem. And that from that moment she has stood innocent, preparatory to her deliverance from the Gentiles and her glorification at the coming the Lord. I am the more convinced of this from the fact that immediately on the expiration of that period, as I have formerly shown, the Lord began to scourge Jerusalems desolator, Rome, and has continued and increased those troubles ever since. I am fully persuaded that before the Lord comes in the clouds of heaven, the fourth beast of Daniel 7th will be put to death, and his body, the capital or seat of empire be burned with fire. I am not certain that we shall hear the news of its fall, but whether we do or not, I believe it will go to ruin. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.17
I have looked upon the 1335 days of Daniel 12:12, as extending beyond the 2300 days and reaching to the resurrection. Their termination cannot be far distant. I have looked with great interest for some months past, to the anniversary of the captivity of the Pope, which took place March 27th, A. D. 1799. The papal government was abolished Feb. 15, 1798, but the Pope was not led into captivity until 1799. I have thought that might have been the end of the 1290 days, as 1798 was of the 1260. But the day has gone by, and I have no more time to count. I do, however, expect, if we have time to hear from Europe, that the anniversary of that captivity is marked by some important event. I have not time or room now to give you all my reasons. I may soon give a full view, in a separate work, of the 2300 days and the book of Revelation, from the 12th chapter throughout. J. Litch. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.18
Episcopalians departing from the Faith
In the Southern Churchman, we find an article from the Theological Seminary in Virginia, in which our Savior’s last discourse is paraphrased so that where he speaks of coming again, it is made to read “I will return at your death, and take you to myself.” Thus a part of that church are on the road to Germany. The following extract from the N. Y. Protestant Churchman, however, will show that another portion of that church are on the road to Rome. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.19
What Next? How much will Churchmen bear?—In an editorial notice of A New Edition of the Homilies, by Edward C. Biddle, of Philadelphia, the editor of “The Churchman,” after an allusion to “the earnest recommendations” of this edition by Bishops Chase, Hopkins, and McIlvaine, remarks, “thank God, these Bishops could not, if they would, (and we trust they would not if they could,) prevent us from agreeing with them in the Bible, the Prayer Book, and the homilies; and while we cheerfully echo their commendations of them, as a good means to keep a Churchman’s head from ‘turning over his shoulder to Rome, with longing eyes for her abominations,’ (Bishop Chase,) we are free to add here, (what we did not think it would be quite decorous to say, in a recommendation intended to be circulated with the work,) that we commend the Homilies for the high doctrines which they teach in regard to the Sacraments, especially with reference to the gift of regeneration in baptism, and the Real presence in the Eucharist; for their judicious inculcation of the efficacy of good works to wash away our sins, and to reconcile us to God; for their recognition of the inspiration of the Apocrypha” (The italics are our own, with the exception of the word “judicious,” which is italicised in “The Churchman.”) We have read this paragraph with surprise, grief, and mortification—and if these have not been the emotions of all who have perused it; if even they who have hitherto sympathised with “The Churchman in its main views, have not been surprised and shocked at a development like this, it will argue either that the ultimate objects which it contemplates, have been known by some to have been more objectionable than was ever laid to its charge, or that it has more thoroughly diffused the poison of Romish error, through the body of the Church, than ever our worst fears had led us to anticipate. HST April 17, 1844, page 87.20
Mr. Miller’s Views.—Some of the popular opponents of Mr. Miller’s views have done as great in justice to the prophets, in my humble opinion, as Mr. Miller, or any others. Ought Mr. Miller or his friends to receive more severe censure for being in error, than ourselves, or others, for our or their errors? I have no doubt that the writings of Prof. Stuart, on the Prophecies, where they are credited, will ultimately do as much mischief as the views of Mr. Miller. I have written some against the views of Mr. Miller. I have reasoned honestly, and see no reason to retract. Still, If I have been honestly mistaken, I know not but a mistake in me is as great a crime as it is in Mr. Miller or his friends, where they are equally honest. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.1
They, however, from the nature of the question they have agitated and the position they have taken, must expect scorn and reproach for their mistake after the time is fully past.—Genius of Christianity. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.2
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, APRIL 17, 1844.
New Work
The Anti Annihilationist, by J. Litch, Philadelphia.
This work is a periodical, Svo., 32 pages, and can be obtained at the office of publication. 41 Arcade, Philadelphia, also, at No. 14 Devonshire St., Boston, at No. 9 Spruce St. New York, and at S. W. corner of North and Fayette Sts., Baltimore. Terms: Single copy, stitched and covered, 10 cents; 12 copies $1; 100 copies $6 67 cents. Persons from a distance sending $1, post paid, will have 14 copies sent them, without being stitched, newspaper postage. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.3
Our readers will have observed that we have stood aloof from the discussion of the question of the intermediate state of the dead, and end of the wicked. We have given notice of Bro. Storr’s works on this subject; and in justice to Bro. Litch we give the same notice of his work, that those wishing may have an examination of both sides of this question. The first Number is already published and contains two articles entitled “A Conversation Between George Storrs and J Litch,” on these subjects. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.4
We feel more than ever the importance of keeping to the great question of the Advent. We cannot turn aside from it to discuss other questions. We have one distinct and all important work before us—to give the Midnight Cry And by all the motives arising from the speedy coming of the Lord, to persuade men to get ready. On this subject we have no new views to present, but being more strongly than ever convinced of the advent of Christ as the next event, and that it may come at any hour, we wish to exert such an influence upon all as will prepare and keep them in constant readiness for the glorious Advent. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.5
If these or other questions must be discussed among us, let the brethren do it on their own responsibility. And though we may differ in our views, yet let us remember that we are brethren, and keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. J. V. Himes. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.6
Boston, April 17, 1844. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.7
Correspondence
Tuftonborough, N. H. Bro. T. W. Piper Writes: “There is a large band of believers here, who are daily looking for their Lord and master. We meet in different parts of the town every evening, and God meets with us. Never did I enjoy such heavenly seasons as I have the past winter.” HST April 17, 1844, page 88.8
Montpelier, Vt. Bro. W. E. Desper writes:—“The cause in this state is in as prosperous state as in any other, perhaps. The brethren and sisters who love the Lord in spirit and in truth, are strong in the faith that our King will soon come for their deliverance.” HST April 17, 1844, page 88.9
Liberty, Me. Bro. Wm. B. Start writes:—“The Advent cause was never more prosperous in this region than at the present time. There is a good band of Advent brethren in Camden, also in Lincolnville, and in Liberty God has permitted me to baptise ten since the Camp-meeting. Also nine in Camden, hoping that others are ready to follow Christ at the first opportunity. There is quite a revival in the village of Montville at this time.—Several have already been converted, and some backsliders reclaimed. We have had much opposition from the Universalists, but their ranks are rapidly thinning. The leaders in the opposition have been converted one of whom was a very wicked man. In all this region the Universalists love us so well, they have voted us out of the school house where we were wont to meet. And the brethren meet to-day to fit up a hall, which will be much more convenient, and hold at least one-third more.” HST April 17, 1844, page 88.10
Extract of a letter from sister E. Wetherbee.—“Should this fall into the hands of any unconverted friends, in love to God, and to your souls, let me warn you to be careful how you treat the momentous truths of God, by whom we are soon to be judged, according to the deeds done in the body. Oh, sinner, I warn you to flee from the wrath to come; tarry not to hear the cries of peace and safety, my Lord delayeth his coming; remember sudden destruction awaiteth. O Come to Christ with all your heart, that you may have eternal life Behold the lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world; who left the courts of Glory and become poor, that we, through his poverty might become rich. O that men would praise the Lord for his wonderful works to the children of men. Dear sinners, behold him who was despised and slandered, and rejected by an ungodly world, and in His fervent cries for us poor sinners, sweat, as it were, great drops of blood, and last of all, was led as a lamb to the slaughter; behold him nailed to the cross, who in agony bled and died; all this to save our lost and perishing souls. He is now interceding in your behalf, and waiting to receive you. He says, come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Again; if any man thirst let him come unto me and drink. Sinners, I warn you in the name of the Lord Jesus, to harden not your hearts now in the accepted time, and the day of salvation. My prayer to God is, that you ultimately may share the riches of his grace with all the blood-washed millions in the everlasting kingdom of glory. Bless the Lord for salvation and redemption through Christ. I live in sweet anticipation of soon seeing Him whom my soul loveth. Yours in the blessed hope of a speedy and glorious resurrection. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.11
Emily Wetherbee. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.12
Epping, N H., March, 1844. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.13
The Cause in Utica.—The glorious Advent of our Lord seems to be a matter of no interest to the people of this city. Indeed, a degree of indifference truly astonishing, pervades all classes; and in many instances the most perfect hatred and contempt are manifest. Our citizens are comfortably reposing under the syren lullaby, of “peace and safety,” from their spiritual guides and leaders, and it puts them into a dreadful passion to have their slumbers broken by the unwelcome cry, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! The gloom of midnight reigns supremely through all our streets!” Only here and there a soul where the lamp of ‘faith remains unextinguished. The vessels of the foolish virgins are emptied of oil, and their lamps have gone ont! It is a lamentable truth, however painful to write it, that scarcely a fractional part of our fellow-citizens love the appearing of Christ. It has been stated to us by some of our brethren, and it seems to be really true, that there cannot be found in all this city, out of a population of some 13,000 souls, more than ten or twelve who are willing to commit themselves fully on the time, by confessing that they really expect to see the Savior within the limits of the present Jewish year. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.14
Brn. Patten, Swartwout, Wright, Yates, and a few others, are firm and faithful. Br. Patten is absent in Jefferson county, sounding the cry. There are some eight or ten faithful souls here, who feel determined, by the grace of God, to obey the blessed injunction, “forsake not the assembling of yourselves together, and so much the more as ye see the day approaching.” We meet at Br. Patten’s house, on three evenings of the week, to exhort and admonish each other, and to “pray for one another,” that God may apply the healing balm to our souls, and gird us with grace to stand unscathed amidst the shafts of the enemy. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.15
The brethren here would be greatly rejoiced, if some faithful servant, skillful in the word of righteousness, could visit our city and make yet one more effort for the salvation of our relatives, neighbors, and friends, who are still out of the ark whilst the fiery flood is just ready to beat in upon them. Dear brethren and sisters at the cast, pray for us of the west. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.16
Word of Warning, Utica, N. Y. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.17
Romanism in America.—On Sunday, the 10th of March, the Rev. William Quarter, Rev. Andrew Byrne, and Rev. John McCloskey, were consecrated Bishops, in the Cathedral of this city. Bulls have been received by the Bishop of Quebec, erecting into an apostolic curacy the whole territory beyond the Rocky Mountains lying North of California, and appointing M. Francois Norbert Blanchet, Apostolic Vicar, with the title of Bishop of Philadelphia in partibue infidelium, one of the most ancient sees established in Asia Minor. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.18
Protestant Missions.—A tabular statement of protestant missions throughout the world, prepared for the Foreign Missionary Chronicle, gives the following general results—no females being included in the number of missionaries or assistant missionaries; ministers or preachers being classed is missionaries, and physicians, teachers, catehists, printers, etc. as assistant missionaries: viz. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.19
Stations, 709; missionaries, 975; assistant missionaries. 131; native assistants, 4098; communicants, 146,886; scholars, 163,658. If we omit the returns from the West Indies, the statistics of the other missionary fields will be:—Stations, 457; missionaries, 701; assistant missionaries, 131; native assistants, 2132; communicants, 44,750; scholars, 91,169. Ch. Almanac for 1844. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.20
Brethren will remember the Advent Conference at Exeter this week. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.21
Tabernacle. Meetings every evening as usual at 7 1-2 o’clock. Br. Meyers will lecture Wednesday and Friday evenings. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.22
Bro. Hale lectured in Lynn last Sunday to good audiences. Bro. Himes lectured at the Tabernacle all day. Meetings full and solemn. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.23
Advent Library, No. 44. Miller’s Letters to Bush, will be out in a few days. Price, single, 6 1-4 cents. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.24
To Correspondents.—An article on “The third Heavens,” by W. E. D. is received. We think our brother is incorrect in his application of it. By the third heavens, the heaven of heavens, etc., the Jews always understood the more immediate presence of God—the atmosphere being their lower or first heavens, and the region of stars their second heavens. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.25
There are some defects in the calculation of Bro. W. T. H. so that it would only confuse instead of enlightening. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.26
We have received a communication from John F. Cole, stating that the Olio and Fair held in Webster, as published in our last, was on Monday evening, and not Sunday, as we stated. We wish to do no injustice to the parties concerned; but in their printed Notice sent to us, of which we gave a copy, it was advertised to be held on Sunday evening. Whether it was a misprint we cannot say. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.27
We have received a very interesting letter from “O W. S.;” but we are obliged to defer its publication, as we are not in possession of the writer’s name. We wish all correspondents would accompany their articles with their proper signature. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.28
Lines from C. M. B. are received. The rhyme is imperfect; and they are very deficient in rhythm, which is a very necessary quality in all poetry. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.29
The article of Bro. J. T. was received too late for this paper. As the subject is presented we cannot see that it would advance the cause to publish it. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.30
Letters received to April 13, 1844
David Washmood; Sarah Pierson $1; J G Crandall by pm $1; Albert Hardy; Martha Lamb by pm $1; C S M; E C Clemons 2 fo; Wm Miller; S L Miller by pm $1 J Day by pm $1; Miss M Chuster by pm $1; Fanny Clark by pm $1; G W Whiting by pm $1 $1 now due; pm Bristol Ct; H Hanniman; S G Miles; S Chapman; W B Statt $3; Jno Smith by pm $2; N Alger by pm $1; D Messinger $1; C M B; pm Collins Centre; pm Braintree Vt; J Damon, did not rec. the dollar referred to; pm Bethlehem NH; Wm Miller Macorok Mich. by pm $1; pm Greenville, NY; pm Troy. NY; R Pendleton by pm $1; Mrs Everett $2; and S Smith by pm $1; D Lovell $1; D R Williams $1, and O Beers $1 by pm; R Matthewson, $1, D Williams $2, and J Albrow $. all by pm; L S & E B Fuller; Miss E C Clemons 3 fo; Wm Walker; pm Earl Hamilton N Y; J E Eayrs by pm 50c; Wm Mentzer by pm $1; A Beech by pm $5; L D Parks by pm $1; Wealthy Snow by pm 50c; O G Terry by pm $2; E A Dickinson $5; J J Potter $2; J V Himes; pm Akron O; R Bronson by pm $1; A M Clark by pm $1; L Slayton by pm $1; J Friend; J Clark; D C Tourttelott; Luther Jones; J A Tourttelott; and AC Tourttelott by pm $3; L C Peasely by pm $1; G A Williams by pm $1; A E Phelps by pm $2; O Ahen; O Hazen by pm $5; how shall the money be appropriated; S C Chandler and others; Silas Gowe by pm 50c; H A Paul by pm $1; L Bruce $1; J H Pratt Contoocookville NH; pm Three Rivers Ms; L R Everett $2; J Fassett by pm $1; S S Snow; H A Fisk pm; Wm Miller; W C Neff; E P Warrall $20; Miss L M Dowell by pm $2. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.31
Packages Sent
J V Himes 9 Spruce-st., N Y, J Litch 41 Arcade Phila; G S Miles 67 Green-st. Albany; T M Preble Manchester, N H; E Walker West Becket, Ms. HST April 17, 1844, page 88.32