Signs of the Times and Expositor of Prophecy [Himes], vol. 6
September 13, 1843
Vol. VI.—No. 4. Boston, Whole No. 124
Joshua V. Himes
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
AND EXPOSITOR OF PROPHECY.
Terms.—$1,00 per Vol. (24 Nos.) in advance Office No. 14 Devonshire Street, Boston. HST September 13, 1843, page 25.1
J. V. Himes, J. Litch, and S. Bliss, Editors.
Dow & Jackson, Printers, Boston.
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, 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 September 13, 1843, page 25.2
II. The only Millenium found in the word of God is the eternal state of the righteous in the New Earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. HST September 13, 1843, page 25.3
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 September 13, 1843, page 25.4
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. And HST September 13, 1843, page 25.5
V. There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, that extend beyond the year 1843. HST September 13, 1843, page 25.6
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 September 13, 1843, page 25.7
The New Earth
In the interpretation of the prophetic scriptures, there is one point which, to my mind, is of paramount importance; and it is so, because questions of momentous concern hinge upon this. From a misapprehension of this one point have originated the great errors that pervade the mass of the church in relation to a temporal reign of Christ on earth. This cardinal principle in the interpretation of prophecy, relates to the ultimate residence of the redeemed. If, as many of our dearly beloved brethren suppose, they are to be transferred to some remote portion of the universe, then all those enrapturing visions which delineate the triumphant state and glorious prosperity of the church on earth, must be referred to some time prior to the resurrection. If, on the other hand, the regenerated earth is to be the abode of the saints in light, then all those exceeding great and precious promises will have their ultimate fulfilment, their glorious consummation in the new earth. It is the good pleasure of our heavenly Father, that the grand purposes of his government should be gradually unfolded; and that light, on the great subject of human redemption, should be increasing, for the most part, from age to age; and thus the shades of moral night be, as it were, imperceptibly dissipated from the true Israel of God, till, at length, the opening twilight shall be lost in the overpowering blaze of heaven’s resplendent sun. Hence in the early history of the world, we have obscure hints of the Messiah’s coming and kingdom; then we have various symbols representing the blessings of the gospel, and the final salvation of believers; and as the time of his advent approached, the inspired penmen portrayed, in a clearer and more striking manner, his character and sufferings, together with the glory that should follow. However clear might have been prophetic vision under the Mosaic dispensation, be it remembered, the prophets ever spoke in the language of the age; consequently, in describing future events, however remote, their imagery was drawn from surrounding objects, and their descriptions corresponded to circumstances then existing, and to the ideas with which the people of that age were most familiar. Their implements of war through all coming time, were the shield and buckler, the spear and the bow, etc.—their strong position, a city protected by walls and bulwarks—their Savior was to sit upon the throne of David—the church, either militant or triumphant, was with them, Israel, Judah, Zion or Jerusalem—heaven was the land of Canaan or the holy mountain—the enemies of the church, were Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians or some other foe, which they regarded as most formidable to the Jews. In describing the enlargement of the church under the Gospel dispensation, camels and dromedaries were to cover the land, bearing gold and incense from afar; and the sons of strangers were to build the walls of Jerusalem, etc. Isaiah 60:6 & 10th. In the Old Testament, the resurrection is represented as the return of the Jews to their own land from all the nations whither they had been dispersed. In the New Testament, as the gathering together of the elect from the four winds—raising up believers at the last day, etc. In the one case, they are to be settled after their old estates; in the other, they are to receive an inheritance among the saints in light. In the one case, the Canaanite should be no more in the house of the Lord of hosts; in the other, nothing that defileth shall ever enter the new Jerusalem, Revelation 21:27. In the one case, the remnant of all nations are to “go up from year to year, to worship the King, the Lord of Hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles;” Zechariah 14:16. In the other, a great multitude, which no man can number, of all nations and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands, Revelation 7:9. In the one case, God’s sanctuary or temple was to be in the midst of the Jews for evermore, Ezekiel 37:26. In the other, “the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them and be their God.” Revelation 21:3. The Old Testament is full of the restoration of the Jews—their subsequent freedom from all sin, and deliverance from every enemy—their abundant prosperity, when an handful of corn upon the top of the mountains shall bring forth fruit, that “shall shake like Lebanon”—their entire security, when “they shall no more be pulled up out of their own land”—their harmonious songs, as they “sing upon the height of Zion,”—the everlasting kingdom of David, who is to be their Prince forever—and the triumphant reign of the saints, who will take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever even forever and ever.” HST September 13, 1843, page 25.8
The New Testament opens to our view the resurrection from the dead—the joys of eternal life—and a crown of glory—an inheritance undefiled, and that fadeth not away—a kingdom prepared for the righteous from the foundation of the world, etc. Now who cannot see that the former do but shadow forth the latter? they are but the figures of the true, gloriously symbolical of the spiritual world. Shall we, like the unbelieving Jews, grasp at the shadow, and lose the substance? Does any one expect to see the Jews return to the land of Canaan? Yes, be assured the Israel of God will soon come into possession of the promised inheritance, when “many shall come from the east and from the west, and sit down with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the Kingdom of God.” Do any expect the temple to be reared again? Yes, truly the temple will be reared in its magnificence and glory; and the topstone will be raised with shoutings, grace, grace unto it. But it will be a temple made without hands, and built of living stones. Do any expect Jerusalem to appear in her former beauty? Yes, glory to God, Jerusalem shall rise from the dust of ages, and her walls shall rise again in all their strength. But it will be the city of the living God, with its Jasper walls, its pearly gates, and golden streets. HST September 13, 1843, page 25.9
The above considerations may prepare the way for us to appreciate the evidence from scripture, that the earth will be the abode of the righteous after the resurrection. In fact the declarations of the word of God are so positive and unequivocal, that it would seem no one could doubt on this subject. The 21st and 22nd chapters of Revelation, by the almost universal consent, I believe, of all expositors of the Bible, describe the glories of the immortal state. Now, let us enquire, where is the scene of those heavenly realities laid? The first verse explicitly informs us that it is on the regenerated earth. He opens to us a view of the celestial scenery, so to speak, or the eternal abodes of the redeemed, by saying, and I saw a new heaven, or atmosphere, and a new earth; and, to make the subject more clear, he adds, for the first heaven, and the first earth were passed away, and there was no more sea. Here then we have the unequivocal testimony of John; and will any one, in the face of God’s positive declaration, deny that after the dissolution of the present mundane system, the earth will be re-created, and thus appear again in its purified, renovated and glorious form? Now this is not the metaphorical earth of which our opponents tell us; for, be it remembered, we have now passed the boundaries of time, and are viewing the scenes of eternity. Again, it is not the heaven into which Enoch entered so many thousand years ago, for after the present organization of things had passed away, it is created anew. Again, in the last clause of this verse, does the apostle mean gravely to inform us that there was no ocean rolling through the invisible, ethereal regions of the skies? No, the very idea seems absurd. The mansions of the redeemed being now fitted for their reception, the next view presented, was the descent of the New Jerusalem. This, in my judgment, is the church in its glorified state. This is evident from the fact, that in the 9th verse, the angel calls him to view the bride, the Lamb’s wife, which we all understand to be the church. In the 10th verse, she is presented under the emblem of the most precious and beautiful city, of which we can conceive. The materials of which it is constructed, are the most costly, brilliant, and enduring in the universe, beautifully symbolizing the preciousness and purity of God’s jewels, as also their immortality. Its form, like the “holy of holies,” was a perfect cube; which may represent its numerical completion—its vast dimensions show that it is a multitude which no man can number—its entire symmetry may represent the harmony of the blessed—its radiant beauty, their moral excellence—and its imposing grandeur, their exaltation in the kingdom of glory. It is built “upon the foundation of the apostles;” and its 12 gates represent the 12 tribes of the spiritual Israel; and it is encompassed with lofty and impregnable walls; for salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks. On the sounding of the last trump, the righteous will ascend to meet the Lord in the air; here they will be secluded in their secret chambers “until the indignation be overpast.” Isaiah 26:20. Then shall the descent of the New Jerusalem take place, however it may be interpreted; and O, with what ineffable glories is the bride enshrouded in her descent from God out of heaven: Who would not wish to have a portion there? Look at the city, radiant with gold, sparkling with gems, as it shines forth in the splendor of everlasting day. The throne of God and of the Lamb is in it. This shows their entire submission to God, and consecration to the Savior. Again, the Lamb is the light thereof; thus all the wisdom and glory of the church emanate from him. Now the celestial city did not possess a permanent location in the skies, for John saw it descending out of heaven. Yes, as the earth rises in all the freshness and beauty of a new creation, blooming as the garden of Eden, the wilderness blossoming as the rose, those, for whom the kingdom is prepared, will descend and enter the promised land—“the meek shall inherit the earth;” and “the righteous shall dwell in the land.” HST September 13, 1843, page 25.10
In Revelations 5th, we have described the worship of heaven, and in the song of the redeemed, they gratefully acknowledge their indebtedness to him, who had purchased their redemption at the price of his own precious blood, and raised them to the dignity of kings, or in other words had prepared for them a kingdom. They had not as yet commenced their reign, for they speak in the future tense, “we shall reign.” Now where is the location of this kingdom? We are explicitly told “on the earth.” In Matthew 19:28, we read that those who have followed Jesus in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit upon the throne of his glory, they also shall sit upon twelve thrones. Some understand this to mean those who follow the Savior in conversion; but it is an entire misapprehension of the passage. Jesus was never converted, and therefore could not be imitated in that respect. The idea is this, ye who have followed me, shall in the new organization of things, or as the apostle says, the restitution of all things, when the Son of man shall sit upon his throne in the kingdom of glory, ye shall sit upon twelve thrones, or in other words receive the crown of glory, which the Lord the righteous Judge will give to all believers in that day. In Matthew 25:34, we read, “come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom, etc. The saints, then, possess the kingdom at the Judgment. True, it was prepared from the foundation of the world, but so also was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, that is in the purpose of God. It seems undeniable that the saints will begin to reign immediately after the decisions of the last day; consequently, their kingdom cannot be in the present, but will be in the regenerated earth; for, says the word, “we shall reign on the earth.” HST September 13, 1843, page 26.1
In the second Epistle of Peter 3rd chapter, the Apostle, replying to those who scoff at the scenes of the Judgment, reasons analogically thus: how wilfully ignorant are such men of the scriptures, and the power of God! There is an energy divine in the word, that spake into existence the solid earth beneath our feet, the beauteous canopy of heaven, and the rolling waters of the ocean. But, when sin had polluted the earth, that same powerful word which created the elements for the happiness of man, could convert them into engines of death. Almost the entire race were swept away—the atmosphere deteriorated—the period of human life abridged—and the original beauties of nature destroyed. Let now the scorner beware, for the same fiat of the great Omnipotent, that created the earth, and deluged the world, stands pledged to execute a more fearful doom, even a deluge of fire, that shall overwhelm his incorrigible foes. But O what a glorious consolation is it to us, beloved brethren, that the same resistless energy will be put forth, as we are assured by the prophet, to restore the order of nature in its pristine beauty and loveliness, and make it as the Paradise of God. In Isaiah 65:17, we find the promise to which the apostle here alludes. Now we are told that this new creation spoken of by the Prophet is a temporal millennium; but St. Peter directs us to look for the fulfilment of the promise after the destruction of the earth by fire. It must therefore be subsequent to the resurrection. But it may be said the prophetic writings are highly symbolical, and the writer of this article has thus regarded the Holy City; but is not such a view of the New Jerusalem eminently consistent with scripture and sound reason? John compares the city to a bride, Revelation 21:2, then the angel, in showing him the bride, shows him the city. Now how does the idea of a metaphorical heavens and earth harmonize with scripture? Let me ask the objector what is meant by the heavens which were of old? The firmament. What by the heavens which are now? The firmament. What by the new heavens in the same connection? Holiness! What is meant by the earth which was of old? The literal earth. What by the earth which is now? This too is the solid earth. What by the new earth? Holiness! Can any thing be more inconsistent with scripture? Bring the subject to the test of reason, and it appears equally inconsistent. It being admitted that John’s new creation has reference to a future state, and it seems equally evident in regard to that of Isaiah; then all that can be said against a literal interpretation, is that the spiritual world is compared to the earth. But, is it rational to suppose, that John was so enraptured with the world of light and glory, that he could compare it to nothing but the vale of tears? Away with such forced and sophistical modes of interpretation. Let us take the plain literal construction of God’s word, unless sufficient reasons demand the contrary. It would seem that the question is put forever at rest from the fact, that, in Peter, we have neither the poetic imagery or prophetic visions of John or Isaiah; but plain simple teachings of the apostle. HST September 13, 1843, page 26.2
In Isaiah 66:22, we read, “as the new heavens and the new earth which I will make, shall remain before me, so shall your seed and your name remain.” In various passages of the divine word, the Lord is pleased to give us an idea of the immutability of his promise, by comparing it to objects of the material universe, as the sun, moon, earth, etc. In this verse we have the promise, that the redeemed shall exist while the new creation endures. To such vast bodies of material nature, the mind instinctively attaches the idea of eternity. But if you abandon the literal sense, you take away the idea of permanence, and destroy all the force and beauty of the passage. There is no fixture, upon which the mind can fasten; and not only so, but there is no propriety in the sentiment. For if the new earth is but a state of moral purity, then the verse would imply simply that so long as the church continued in a state of holiness, so long would continue the holy people; and thus the passage would affirm nothing, for the existence of intelligent moral agents is essential to, and inseparable from a state of moral purity. But when taken in its true import, how sure, how precious, how glorious does the promise appear! It is as if he had said, as long as the firmament above their heads, and the solid globe beneath their feet shall endure, so long shall the heirs of the kingdom remain. And it is truly deplorable, to see one of the most gracious and sublime promises of eternal life in the whole Bible, expunged from the sacred record, by our dear brethren and teachers in Israel. HST September 13, 1843, page 26.3
In Isaiah 25:8, we read, “He will swallow up death in victory.” In 1 Corinthians 15:54, we are told that this prediction will be fulfilled after the resurrection. We find also, in the same verse containing the promise, it is added: and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth, or in other words “there shall be no more curse” on the face of all the earth. Is it possible for language to be more explicit than this? Observe it is not even mentioned that it will be a new (or as our divines will have it a metaphorical) earth, but simply the earth. Now if the earth were annihilated at the judgment, what propriety would there be in speaking of the earth as if it were inhabited after the resurrection? Thus we have this truth standing out in bold relief on the sacred page, inscribed there as with a sunbeam of heavenly light, and will our Teachers still affirm that the location of heaven is not even revealed in the Bible? If language can teach the doctrine, it most certainly is revealed, and in terms too intelligible to be misinterpreted. First, we have the prediction of the prophet, that God will create a new heavens and a new earth. Next we have the apostolic injunction to look for its accomplishment after the elements shall have been melted by the fires of the last day; and finally, we have the prospective fulfilment of the promise in the visions of John, at a period subsequent to the Judgment. And what can we ask more? I can conceive of but one thing more that we must seek, and that is faith to rest on the immutable word of Jehovah. HST September 13, 1843, page 26.4
Thus much for the scriptural argument. Let us now glance at the subject in a philosophical light. It is a well attested fact, that whenever man has penetrated into the crust of the earth, the thermometer rises as you descend beyond a certain depth. From these and similar phenomena, the interior of the earth is supposed to be a vast body of liquid fire, that is melting every thing before it, with the intensity of its heat. Were it not for volcanoes, which operate as safety valves, the earth would doubtless ere this have been disrupted into fragments, by the force of internal fires. In the providence of God, I doubt not those central fires will burst forth and deluge the world. Thus the waters of the ocean would be dried up, or as John says, there would be “no more sea;” and should the atmosphere become ignited, as it might be by a separation of the two gases that compose it; there would be instantly an explosion of the entire atmosphere, and thus “the heavens being on fire be dissolved,” and pass away with a great noise; and at the same time the elements of the earth would be melted with fervent heat. Be it remembered, that St. Peter does not intimate that any portion of the earth will be annihilated, but speaks only of the dissolution of the firmament, and the fusion of substances in the earth, and nothing can be more unphilosophical than to suppose, that the action of caloric can annihilate a single particle of matter. As applied to metals, its effect is fusion; to water, a conversion into vapour; to wood, a conversion into the forms of smoke, vapour and ashes. But every particle of the original matter still remains. True, he who created can uncreate at pleasure; but has he not told us that the earth abideth forever? Let me say in conclusion, that for myself, I desire no other heaven than that revealed by the prophets, when the “ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads;” when “they shall take the kingdom and possess the kingdom (or in other words reign in glory) forever, even forever and ever.” I. Merriam. HST September 13, 1843, page 27.1
Greenland, N. H. Aug. 18th; 1843. HST September 13, 1843, page 27.2
What is it for God’s People to come out of Babylon
by c. fitch.
“Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” To come out of Babylon is to be converted to the true scriptural doctrine of the personal coming and kingdom of Christ; to receive the truth on this subject with all readiness of mind, as you find it plainly written out on the pages of the Bible; to love Christ’s appearing, and rejoice in it, and fully and faithfully to avow to the world your unshrinking belief in God’s word touching this momentous subject, and to do all in your power to open the eyes of others, and influence them to a similar course, that they may be ready to meet their Lord. Christ has said, “Whoso is ashamed of me and of my words, in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him shall the Son of Man be ashamed when he shall come in the glory of his Father, with the holy angels. Who are you that you should be ashamed of what God has written in his word respecting the kingdom of Christ, and that you should wish to spiritualize it into some other meaning than God has expressed, for the purpose of making it more popular with those that fear not God? Stand up before the world and dare honestly to avow your believe in what the Almighty God has spoken. Give up the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life; wean yourself from the love of this present world, and be looking for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ. Be just as ready, also, to receive and confess all that God has been pleased to reveal touching the time of the establishment of the kingdom of Christ, as any other part of the subject. Why be ashamed of the time of Christ’s coming? HST September 13, 1843, page 27.3
Many are beginning to say, “We are satisfied that the usual notion about the spiritual kingdom of Christ and a temporal millennium, is altogether groundless, and that the coming of Christ is doubtless near;” but they feel a very great reluctance either to express or to hold any belief respecting the time. It is very popular not to know any thing about it, and a very convenient way of escaping reproach, to be able to say,” we know nothing about it.” Thousands are glad that they don’t know any thing about it, and are fully determined that they will continue to know nothing about it; and some, though they profess to have examined the subject, are hindered from getting any light respecting the time, by the conviction that if they receive the light they must avow it, and this will subject them to reproach. To escape reproach, therefore, they skulk away and hide themselves in darkness. Shame on these miserable skulkers! How will they bear the blazing light of Christ’s face at His glorious appearing! They will want rocks and mountains to hide them in that hour. HST September 13, 1843, page 27.4
By this many will begin to say with a sneer of contempt, “You are trying to make it out that none but Millerites can be saved.” Hold one moment, for your soul’s sake, and tell if you can, how he can be prepared for the kingdom of Christ, who is opposed to Christ’s reigning in person on the throne which God has sworn to give him, and who is ashamed to believe and avow what God has revealed touching the time of Christ’s appearing? If you can see any way into the kingdom of God for such a soul as that, I frankly confess you can see what I cannot. Do you still complain that I should try to make it appear that you are not a Christian? I have no such desire. I pray God that you may make it appear you are a Christian. But I do say, if you are a Christian, come out of Babylon! If you intend to be found a Christian when Christ appears, come out of Babylon, and come out Now! Throw away that miserable medley of ridiculous spiritualizing nonsense with which multitudes have, so long been making the word of God of none, effect, and dare to believe the Bible. It contains the wisdom of the infinite God as it is. And needs no alterations and emendations from men, as though they could tell what God means, better than He has been able to express it in his own language. He has sworn with an oath that he would raise up the seed of David to sit on David’s throne; and the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever! HST September 13, 1843, page 27.5
And now away forever with your miserable transcendental philosophy, that would make the throne of David a spiritual throne, and the coming of Christ to sit upon it a spiritual coming, and his reign a spiritual reign. Thanks be to God, His kingdom cannot be blown up into such spiritual bubbles as these, for a thousand, or even 365 thousand years, and then blown forever away into some etherial something, which some sneering infidel has defined, to be sitting on a cloud and singing Psalms to all eternity. No, no. Jesus Christ has been raised up in David’s flesh immortalized, and he shall come in that flesh glorified, “and there shall be given Him dominion and glory, and a kingdom that all people, nations, and languages shall serve Him: His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High; and the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom and shall possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever.” This is God’s word; and all the spiritualizers on the footstool cannot alter it. They may undertake to tell what God means by it; but God has given His own meaning in His own language, and He will make it good in fulfilling it as He has caused it to be written. If God had meant something else and not this, He would have told us what He did mean. Just as though when God had given us truth in symbolic language, and then interpreted it that it might be fully understood, He had after all left it for men in their upstart folly, to improve His own revelation. My soul is pained when I reflect how the word of God has been rendered powerless upon the consciences and hearts of men, by the attempts which have been made to altar it into something else. And now a multitude of ministers of all the multiplied sects of Anti-christ will begin to say, “Thus saying, thou reproachest us also,” and will perhaps accuse me of dealing in wholesale denunciation, when I refuse to acknowledge them to be the, true ministers of Christ. All I have to say is if you are true ministers of Christ, come out of Babylon, and no longer be opposed to the coming of Christ, as the Bible declares he will come, to take his seat forever on the throne which God has sworn to give Him. I do not say that you and your hearers may not have been converted to Christ; but I do say, if you have, it remains for you to show it by coming out of Babylon, and by standing no longer opposed to the reign of Jesus. God never will alter His word to suit your carnal desires. He has written it, and as he has written it he will fulfil it; and if you are ashamed of it, he will be ashamed of you. Dare you believe the Bible? dare you preach it? Dare you bring out its plain testimony respecting the manner, the object, and the time of Christ’s coming, and tell the world that it is truth, and meet the consequences? Or will you turn away with a sneer, and call it Millerism, and go on prating about a spiritual reign of Christ? I tell you, if you continue in that course you will be reckoned with Antichrist, when the glorious Son of David comes to take his throne. “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” HST September 13, 1843, page 27.6
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
J. V. Himes, J. Litch, and S. Bliss, Editors.
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, SEPTEMBER 13, 1843.
The “Hartford Secretary.”
Bro. Burr,—In reply to our remarks on the course of your paper, you say, HST September 13, 1843, page 28.1
“The first sentence of which the editor [of the Signs of the Times] complains, is taken from a notice to ‘Correspondents,’ in which we stated that the immediate second advent of our Savior is not now the prominent theme of discussion, etc. In this statement he thinks we have misrepresented the views of the Second Advent believers.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.2
Now, Br. Burr, the charge was that you misrepresent us in particular. The following was the passage we quoted from your paper: HST September 13, 1843, page 28.3
“Already has the immediate second advent of our Savior ceased to be the prominent theme for discussion in their meetings, and in their paper printed in Boston; and the question now is, will there be a personal or a spiritual reign of Christ on the earth?” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.4
In justification of the above, you say,— HST September 13, 1843, page 28.5
“We would simply refer the editor to the columns of his own paper, for the last three years, for the proof of our assertion. The subject of the second coming of Christ in 1843, up to April of the present year, was the prominent theme of debate; but, since that time, other questions, and matter not immediately connected with the second advent, have occupied a prominent place in the columns of the Signs of the Times.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.6
We have looked over our files since last April, and we can find no questions not immediately connected with the Advent there made prominent. Our object, and our sole object, has been to fill our columns with articles immediately connected with this subject, as laid down in our Fundamental Principles In the pursuit of this object we have endeavored to obtain light from the whole field of prophecy and history; and any light which can be obtained from any source, on the fulfilment of God’s word, cannot be disconnected with the Advent. So conscious are we of having pursued our object with an eye single to the immediate advent of Christ, that we can freely invite any one to point out any question disconnected with the advent, which has been made prominent. If such topics cannot be pointed out, then Br. Burr is wrong in his position. HST September 13, 1843, page 28.7
Should you not, Br. Burr, consider it unfair if we should claim that you do not make the question of religion the prominent subject of your paper, because you occasionally speak of baptism, Puseyism, Episcopacy, regeneration, etc. etc.? You would reject the charge at once; and plead that any such question was intimately connected with the Christian religion. Even so do we claim that the new earth, the signs of the times, the corruptions of society, the disunion in churches, the fulfillment of prophecy, etc. etc. with the prophetic periods, are all intimately connected with the immediate advent. Again, you say,— HST September 13, 1843, page 28.8
“We are next accused of misrepresentation, in some remarks which we made upon the following sentence which appeared as the caption of an article in a late number of the Signs of the Times, viz. ‘The great question at issue between us and the church, viz. Is the curse to be removed, and this earth restored to its Eden state, to be the eternal abode of the righteous in the resurrection state?’ We inferred from the foregoing sentence that the believers in the Second Advent had relinquished that part of the system which relates to the year 1843, and were now striving to make an issue with the church upon the nature of the millennium. This we supposed to be a fair inference, inasmuch as the time fixed for the second advent had nearly or quite expired, and now in the latter part of the year 1843 they say that the great question at issue between us and the church is, ‘Is this earth to be restored to its Eden state,’ etc.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.9
To show how unfair such an inference is, we will quote the following sentence from the article of which that was the caption. “It will also follow that as this glorious day is all that delays the coming of Christ in the minds of the church, if it is the new earth, then we are to look for it as the NEXT event, and expect it at the end of all the prophetic periods, when in the ‘fulness of times’ God ‘will gather together in one all things in Christ;’ ‘when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord, and he shall send Jesus Christ which was before preached unto you.’” In the same paper, Aug. 2, you may also find the following sentence: “There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, that extend beyond the year 1843.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.10
How, then, you could legitimately draw such an inference from an article written to prove the advent in 1843, or how you could innocently publish such an inference, is more than we can harmonize. HST September 13, 1843, page 28.11
Again, you say you suppose it a “fair inference inasmuch as the time fixed for the second advent had nearly or quite expired.” Our time will not expire till the Lord comes, however much we may mistake in the nearness of that event; none but God has fixed the time. The decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem is fixed at one end of the prophetic chain, and the coming of Christ at the other end; and those events are 2300 years apart. We shall therefore look for the Lord till he comes, knowing (see Matthew 24:32, 33) “that it is near, even at the doors.” But have we any right to infer because the year has partly expired, that the Lord will not come within the year? If you were invited to a wedding, and the bridegroom did not arrive at sun-down, would you consider it a fair inference to conclude that the wedding would be “given up?” No; you would wait even till “midnight,” with your lamp trimmed and burning, that you might enter in to the marriage feast. The tarrying of the bridegroom till that late hour would be no “fair inference” of the wedding being “given up.” Then, says our Savior “shall the kingdom of heaven be thus likened.” Again, you say, HST September 13, 1843, page 28.12
“This certainly looks to us like an abandonment of the question of the appearance of our Savior in 1843; for, if that doctrine is still firmly believed by the editor, we should suppose, now, when the last sand in the glass of time has about run out, he would advocate this topic alone with all the energy of which he is capable. The question whether the saints are to inherit this earth in the resurrection state, or some other part of this vast universe, is a matter of no sort of consequence. It is enough for us to know that “in the resurrection we shall be as the angels of God.” Then why not, if you fully believe the consummation of all things will occur during the ensuing fall, (as you have more than once intimated within the last few months) why not sound the alarm with redoubled vigilance, instead of discussing the comparatively useless question as to the place of the future residence of the blessed?” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.13
Now, as we do “fully believe” “the last sand in the glass of time has about run out,” you will bear with us if we exhort you, with all the energy you say we ought to advocate this question. We would entreat you and beseech you to throw away the fanciful interpretation of God’s word that would put far off the day of the Lord. You are aware that all that can defer the Lord’s coming is a temporal millennium, which was never the belief of the church till the last century. O why will you reject any part of the truth? Believe that every jot and tittle of God’s word will be fulfilled, and that to the letter, and then you will not believe in the destruction of the Man of Sin till he is destroyed by the brightness of Christ’s coming, or that the tares will cease out of the field before the harvest. Is not the language of our Savior clear and explicit, that when the righteous will shine as the sun in the kingdom of their Father, it will be at the end of this world? Then why not receive the truth as a little child? You say if we believed thus and so, we should do thus and so. If such is our duty, then such would be your duty if you believed, and is the duty of all, if we are in the right. According to your own acknowledgement, you are not doing as you would if you believed this doctrine, nor as is your duty if the doctrine is true. If, then, the doctrine we advocate proves true, will you not plead guilty to the charge of having neglected your duty? And will not your readers have been unwarned by you? Because it makes Christians more active and faithful in warning their fellows, is the reason we want you and all others to see the truth. And with this admission you can never say, “It is enough to be ready to die.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.14
Where is your authority from the word of God to say, as you do, that “the question whether the saints are to inherit this earth in the resurrection state, or some other part of this vast universe, is a matter of no sort of consequence?” If it is “of no sort of consequence,” why was it revealed? Is it “of no sort of consequence” whether the meek inherit the earth, whether the people of God are taken out of their graves and placed in their own land, and reign on the earth, and dwell therein forever? Was that glorious world that John saw a matter of no sort of consequence? Do not, my brother, thus speak of any portion of that “sure word of prophecy” which was written for our learning by holy men as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. All that God has seen fit to reveal to us is of the greatest consequence; and when God speaks we should lend a willing ear. HST September 13, 1843, page 28.15
The explanation of the sentence respecting the Israelite is as I supposed—you had never seen the paper. This shows us that it will not answer to publish every scrap we find in newspapers, as expressive of the whole truth. HST September 13, 1843, page 28.16
You say you felt disposed to show us that you had not intentionally misrepresented us. You certainly did so very kindly; and we cheerfully acquit you of all such intentional disposition. But we feel that you have not been careful to do us full justice; not that you would withhold it, but you neglected to do it; and thus the glorious doctrine of the Advent of the King of Glory has suffered at your hands, as it would not, had it been a subject near your heart. You close your article with,— HST September 13, 1843, page 28.17
“There are errors enough connected with the 1843 doctrine, if we felt dispose to combat them, without misrepresenting their views; but we prefer to wait and let time explode a theory which, to say the least, has been attended with many serious evils.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.18
If there are errors connected with this doctrine, it is easy to point them out. If they cannot be pointed out, it is reasonable to conclude they do not exist. Now, my brother, what single error in doctrine or practice have we ever advocated as connected with this doctrine. Can you point out one? We do not ask you to point out what others may have tried to engraft on this question, but which, if we have not advocated, are not necessarily connected with it. Those who have embraced this doctrine are from all religious persuasions; you can therefore find individuals whose belief on many points you would not consider orthodox; but inasmuch as all of us are not of the same opinion, it proves that those opinions are not a part of this doctrine, any more than they are a part of the doctrine of immersion, or than were the excesses of anabaptists in Germany a necessary appendage of the Baptist denomination. We ask others to judge us as they wish to be judged by us, and apply no mode of reasoning to our views that they would be unwilling to have their own views gauged by. “With what judgment ye judge ye shall be judged, and with what measure ye meet it shall be measured to you again.” HST September 13, 1843, page 28.19
The cause in Utica—We perceive by the Midnight Cry, that Brother Hawley is holding grove meetings in the vicinity of Utica of only a Sabbath’s continuance. The churches are closed against the doctrine in that vicinity; but thanks be to the Lord, we can do as the Savior did when shut out of the synagogues; he sat down on the green grass, he ascended the mountains, he taught by the sea shore, he stood in a ship a little way from land; any where, but in the synagogues of the Jews; even so at this present time, the truth, although shut out of so many cushioned churches, and gilded desks, is not obliged to remain unheard; the broad canopy of the heavens is still over our heads, and we can join the merry songsters of the woods in praising our common Father. May the example given by our Savior be extensively followed until every grove, and hill, and vale, shall re-echo the joyful sound. Brother Hawley writes that a great change has taken place in some sections in that region. In the town of Floyd was Satan’s abode, but now the Lord reigns there, the place being purified, transformed, regenerated. HST September 13, 1843, page 29.1
About two hundred of the most hardened wretches have been converted in that one place. Those stand by themselves, not joined to any of the sects, but are a living, thriving band, while those who join an opposing church, become cold and lukewarm, and dead. It is almost suicide for an advent convert to be connected where the advent doctrine is hated, and they cannot let their light shine. Let every one be faithful to sound the alarm in the ears of every slumbering church; let them hear the cry; give them no excuse when the Lord shall come. While thus employed we do our duty, and may save some in the churches; then if we are thrust out of the synagogues for righteousness sake, happy shall we be. But let no unwarned professor point to an advent brother in that day and accuse him of having refused to give the needful admonition. O let us be faithful, if by any means we may provoke to emulation those that are in the church, and thus save some of them. HST September 13, 1843, page 29.2
Religious Papers Beware!—The Symbol says of a scoffing article published in its columns a few weeks since, entitled “Destruction of the World,” and in which various individuals spoken of in the scriptures are made to figure in a ridiculous manner, “it may be well to mention that the article alluded to was copied from a moral and religious paper, published in Maine.” Many are the moral and religious papers of which it might be said by the secular press, such, and such scoffing and slanderous articles were copied from them. Say not that the doctrine of the Advent will make infidels so long as the once fair pages of so many religious journals are thus sullied. Let none accuse others who would be condemned were they to cast the first stone. HST September 13, 1843, page 29.3
Another very religious paper is being sold by the boys in the streets in connection with the “Saturist,” so that the boys cry out “Saturist and Olive Branch.” Thus are two papers, one professing to be a satirical, and the other a religious paper, yoked together to the disgrace of each other. When the Olive Branch came to us a few weeks since with one clean blank side, we wished it could be a permanent improvement; but subsequent numbers have come, polluted with the usual amount of stale and fictitious trash, showing that it has returned again to its former state, having been only half washed. HST September 13, 1843, page 29.4
Subscribers, who wish to discontinue, should send their paper back, marked discontinue, or request the Post Master to do so for them in a letter. Those who receive, or have received bills, will do us a great favor by punctual remittance of what is due. Or if there is any mistake, we shall be under much obligation to them to have it corrected. We only seek to have things right. Let none be offended, let all explain, and all will be well. We thank those who have made their remittances punctually. Let all take heed now in the beginning of the volume, to send us what is due. In time past we have not been so particular whether subscribers paid punctually, or at all, while we had the means to support it. But now, we need every subscription, to meet our bills. J. V. Himes. HST September 13, 1843, page 29.5
How great is the Most High God.—Thus saith the Lord, Isaiah 40:10-18, 21,—23, 25, 26, 28. “Behold the Lord God will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young. Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance? Who hath directed the Spirit of the Lord, or being his counsellor hath taught him? With whom took he counsel, and who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him knowledge, and showed him the way of understanding? Behold the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance: behold he taketh up the isles as a very little thing. And Lebanon is not sufficient to burn, nor the beast thereof sufficient for a burnt-offering. All nations before him are as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity. To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him? Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretched out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in: That bringeth the princes to nothing; he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity. To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names, by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.” HST September 13, 1843, page 29.6
Can Man reason with the Almighty?—Thus saith the Lord. Isaiah 41:21-24. 42:8, 9. “Produce your cause, saith the Lord; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob. Let them bring them forth, and show us what shall happen: let them show the former things, what they be, that we may consider them, and know the latter end of them: or declare us things for to come. Shew the things that are to come hereafter, that we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together. Behold ye are of nothing, and your work of nought: an abomination is he that chooseth you.” “I am the Lord: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. Behold the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.” HST September 13, 1843, page 29.7
The Lord’s Servants that will not hear are blind.—Thus saith the Lord. Isaiah 42:19, 20. 43:8-13. “Who is blind, but my servant? or deaf, as my messenger, that I sent? who is blind as he that is perfect, and blind as the Lord’s servant? Seeing many things, but thou observest not; opening the ears, but he heareth not.” “Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears. Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and show us former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified; or let them hear, and say It is truth. Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses; saith the Lord, that I am God. Yea, before the day was, I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it? ’ HST September 13, 1843, page 29.8
Where does the money come from?
The Olive Branch is very anxious to know of Brother Himes where the money came from to defray the expenses of the great tent at the west, above what was contributed at the west? As Bro. Himes is absent at Cincinnati, we will answer for him. It was paid by the subscribers of the Signs of the Times, in sums of $1, for which each receives a vol. of this paper. HST September 13, 1843, page 29.9
The man again inquires how long Bro. Himes “can find means to sustain such a losing business?” We answer, as long as God shall see fit to send him the means, and raise up those who love the appearing of Christ, and will aid in spreading light on this subject. We have received about fifty new subscribers the past week, while there have been fewer discontinuances since the close of the last vol., than there were the same time at the close of the preceding one. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.1
He again enquires what is the great truth which Mr. Himes speaks of diffusing? We answer, that contained in the “Fundamental Principles” on our first page, which will hold good till the Lord comes. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.2
Again the man of the Olive Branch says that “they” we, “affect to receive a great deal of gospel consolation from the fact, that our opposition confirms and strengthens their faith, because there were to be scoffers in the last days,” and claims that “as it is always right to give the devil his due, if we are instrumental in advancing your happiness in any way, we really think it no more than fair that you should give us the credit of it, and solicit a continuance of our favors.” HST September 13, 1843, page 30.3
We have always given the Olive Branch, and devil, their due. And though a continuance of their favors would strengthen our faith, yet it would give us more pleasure to have the devil chained, and have all scoffers repent of their scoffing, that they may receive the forgiveness of their sins, before the door of mercy is closed against them forever. May God grant them repentance and forgiveness of their sins. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.4
Union is strength.—Romans 16:17. “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences, contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” HST September 13, 1843, page 30.5
Exeter Campmeeting. A notice of this meeting will be found under its appropriate head. We hope that all our friends in this region will make a rally to attend this conference. We bespeak a large gathering; and trust that the friends will remember it in their prayers, that it may be blessed to the eternal good of many souls. Let all go up to worship the Lord of hosts, and keep the feast of tabernacles. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.6
Mr. Miller. Wm. S. Miller writes us, dated Low Hampton, Sept. 5, 1843, that his “father has started for Springfield, Vt. Then, if his health continue, he will go on to Boston. Brother George is with him. He remains very feeble, yet we hope he will have proper care, and not exercise too much so but that he may still continue to gain. He is quite low, yet he is anxious to be out in the field once more before the final gathering takes place, which we all think will be soon, as the field ripens very fast i.e. the world is growing worse and worse.” HST September 13, 1843, page 30.7
Again Exploded.—The doctrine of the Advent has again been exploded by S. W. Lynd, D. D., of Cincinnati. We have however received an able review of it by brother J. B. Cook, who is now laboring in that field. Dr. Lynd is shown to be as sophistical in his reasoning, as his brother D. D’s. It must be that this species of men never completed their education. They would however need to go through a collegiate course many times before they could disprove the plain declarations of the simple word. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.8
A Pamphlet in French.—La Voix des Ecritures Saintes, touchant L’Avenement De Nortre Seigneur Jesus-Christ, Par. N. N. Whiting. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.9
[Translation] The voice of the Holy Scriptures concerning the Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. By N. N. Whiting. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.10
This important work contains 44 pages, mostly occupied with brief propositions and Scripture proofs, in the style of Br. Miller’s Synopsis. It is designed for circulation among the French in our large cities, in Canada, and Europe. Price, single only 10 cents. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.11
New Works on Sanctification.-Brother Hervey has just published a little work on the scriptural doctrine of Sanctification; And brother Skinner has published one on Gospel Holiness. The design of each of the above, is to present the scriptural view of this interesting and necessary attainment disunited from the vagaries of men’s opinions. For sale at this Office. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.12
The New Earth.—We have received a well written work with the above title, by David Plumb, Utica, N. Y. Many are running to and fro, and knowledge on the prophecies is being increased. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.13
“Come out of her my People.”—A Sermon by C. Fitch. This excellent and faithful sermon, is published in a neat pamphlet of 24 pages, and is for sale, wholesale and retail, at this office. Price, single only 4 cents. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.14
Bound Sets of the “Signs” and of the “Cry.”—Bound sets of the last and previous volumes of the above publications can be obtained at this Office. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.15
We hear respecting Father Miller, that his health is quite favorable. He is expected to preach on Andover, N. H. next Sabbath; from thence he will proceed to the camp-meeting at Guilford, N. H. and may be expected in Boston the last of this month, say from 25th to 30th, if nothing prevents. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.16
There will be a Camp-Meeting at West Randolph, Vt. to commence on Tuesday 19th inst. (if time continue.) Br. I. Shipman and M. Chandler are expected to be present: a general invitation is extended to all to come and bring your Tents. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.17
For Committee. J. D. Marsh. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.18
To the Point
We like to receive such as the following. It is short, to the point, contains a word of encouragement, and a proof of interest in this good cause, we have to acknowledge several such. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.19
Dear Brother Bliss,—I enclose you two dollars, one for the “Signs of the Times,” which I wish you would continue to send me as usual; and one for the spread of light on the second coming of Christ, by your publications, where you think it is most needed. I feel that time is short, and what is to be done must be done quickly. O may every Second Advent believer do what he can to sound the Midnight Cry, Behold the Bridegroom cometh. I rejoice in the hope of soon seeing my dear Savior, for I verily believe that he is near even at the doors, and if I am faithful here until he come, I shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. O may this be the happy lot with us all, when he comes, to be caught up together to meet him in the air. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.20
Liberty Bullough.
Newton Corner, Aug. 22, 1843.
Wesley’s Advice to Methodists
John Wesley was an ardent Adventist, and was looking for the Lord to come about this time. He was the founder of a powerful and respected sect, whom he cautioned against departing from the letter of the Word, as follows: HST September 13, 1843, page 30.21
Brethren,—“Beware of that daughter of pride, enthusiasm! O keep at the utmost distance from it; give no place to a heated imagination. Do not hastily ascribe things to God. Do not easily suppose dreams, voices, impressions, visions, or revelations to be from God. They may be from him; they may be from nature; they may be from the devil. Therefore “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they be of God.” Try all things by the written word, and let all bow down before it. You are in danger of enthusiasm every hour, if you depart ever so little from Scripture; yea, or from the plain literal meaning of any text, taken in connection with the context. And so you are, if you despise, or lightly esteem reason, knowledge, or human learning: every one of which is an excellent gift of God, and may serve the noblest purposes. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.22
I advise you never to use the words wisdom, reason, or knowledge, by way of reproach. On the contrary, pray that you yourself may abound in them more and more. If you mean worldly wisdom, useless knowledge, false reasoning, say so: and throw away the chaff but not the wheat, HST September 13, 1843, page 30.23
One general inlet to enthusiasm is, expecting the end without the means; the expecting knowledge, for instance, without searching the Scripture, and consulting the children of God: the expecting spiritual strength without constant prayer, and steady watchfulness: the expecting any blessing without hearing the word of God at every opportunity, HST September 13, 1843, page 30.24
Some have been ignorant of this device of Satan. They have left off searching the Scriptures. They said “God writes all the Scripture on my heart, therefore I have no need to read it.” Others thought they had not so much need of hearing, and so grew slack in attending preaching. O take warning, you who are concerned herein. You have listened to the voice of a stranger. Fly back to Christ, and keep in the good old way, which was “once delivered to the saints.” HST September 13, 1843, page 30.25
The very desire of growing in grace, may sometimes be an inlet of enthusiasm. As it continually leads us to seek new grace, it may lead us unawares to seek something else new, besides new degrees of love to God and man. So it has led some to fancy they had received gifts of a new kind, alter a new heart, as, 1, The loving God with all our mind; 2, with all our soul; 3, with all our strength; 4, oneness with God; 5, oneness with Christ; 6, having our lives hid with Christ; 7, being dead with Christ; 8, rising with him; 9, The sitting with him in heavenly places; 10, the being taken up into his throne; 11, the being in the New Jerusalem; 12, the seeing the tabernacle of God come down among men; 13, the being dead to all works; 14, the not being liable to death, pain, grief or temptation. HST September 13, 1843, page 30.26
One ground of many of these mistakes is, the taking every fresh, strong application of any of these Scriptures to the heart, to be a gift of a new kind; not knowing that several of these Scriptures are not fulfilled yet; that most of the others are fulfilled when we are justified; the rest, the moment we are sanctified. It remains only to experience them in higher degrees: this is all we have to expect. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.1
Another ground of these and a thousand mistakes is, the not considering deeply, that love is the highest gift of God; humble, gentle, patient love; that all visions, revelations, manifestations whatever, are little things compared to love; and that all the gifts above-mentioned, are the same with, or infinitely inferior to it. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.2
It were well you should be thoroughly sensible of this: the heaven of heavens is love. There is nothing higher in religion: there is, in effect, nothing else: if you look for any thing but more love, you are looking wide of the mark, you are getting out of the royal way. And when you are asking others, have you received this or that blessing? If you mean any thing but more love, you are wrong: you are leading them out of the way, and putting them upon a false scent. Settle it then in your heart, that from the moment God has saved you from sin, you are to aim at nothing more, but more of that love described in the thirteenth of the first epistle to the Corinthians. You can go no higher than this, till you are carried into Abraham’s bosom. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.3
I say again, beware of enthusiasm. Such as imagining you have the gift of prophesying, or the discerning of spirits, which I do not believe one of you has, no, nor ever had yet. Beware of judging people to be either right or wrong, by your own feelings. This is no Scriptural way of judging. O keep close to the law, and to the testimony.” HST September 13, 1843, page 31.4
Letter from C. Wines
Dear Brother Himes,—The ministry in this region, almost universally, are opposed to the Advent doctrine, and they have almost as much influence over the people, as the Pope of Rome has over his churches; the members of the different churches, are, I should think, more than nine tenths, opposed to the doctrine. The greatest wonder is, that any under such opposing circumstances and influences, should be waiting, looking, and longing for the coming of their dear Savior. And there is but one reason why they are thus looking and waiting, that is, God has purposed it. He has said, let us be glad and rejoice, for the marriage supper of the Lamb has come, and the wife hath made herself ready. Strange, a bridegroom and bride, the wife ready, the marriage supper prepared, and the parties entirely ignorant of the time, it cannot be so. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.5
Again, the closing up of time and setting up of the kingdom of God, is said to be as if a man should cast good seed into the ground, and should sleep and rise night and day, the seed spring up and grow, and he know not how, but when the fruit is brought forth (he knows it,) for it is added, he immediately puts in the sickle because the harvest is come. Again, the same event is represented by ten virgins, five wise, and five foolish. The foolish are said not to be ready, having no oil in their lamps and none to put in, while the wise are said to have oil in their vessels with their lamps. The Bridegroom is said to come while both parties are in this state of waiting, one party represented as being ready and going in with him to the marriage, and the other shut out. With these plain directions and thousands of others. The teaching and preaching is, that there is a bridegroom and bride, that there is a time that they are to be married and become one, that there is a seed-time and consequently a harvest, that there are wise and foolish virgins, that the wise only will go into the marriage, that they only will partake of the marriage supper, yet at the same time they tell us we can know nothing about the time. Pray God to forgive them their folly and blindness. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.6
My confidence in God’s word remains unshaken, my prayer is, God’s grace and spirit assisting, though the vision tarry to wait for it; it will certainly come, it will not tarry (beyond God’s time) it is true as Paul has said, we have much need of patience after we have done the will of God in order to receive the promise, “For yet a little while and he that shall come will come and will not tarry.” HST September 13, 1843, page 31.7
There are a goodly number in this region that I believe will be ready for the wedding, ready for the harvest, wise virgins. O that you and I may be thus ready, thus waiting, thus looking, and finally go in and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Paul, Peter, James and John, to go no more out for ever. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.8
Yours truly. Vergennes, Aug. 22, 1843.
The Cry in Ireland
The following is an extract from a speech of Mr. Dobbs, on the second coming of the Messiah, delivered in the Irish House of Commons June 7th, 1800, during the discussion of the bill uniting England and Ireland. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.9
In the 2nd chapter of the book of Daniel, there is a most concise, sublime and comprehensive description of the four greatest empires that have ever been in the world, under the figure of a great image in the shape of a man. It is agreed by Sir Isaac Newton, and every commentator of eminence, that the head of gold was the Assyrian and Babylonish empire—that its breast and arms of silver were the Medo-Persian empire—that its belly and thighs of brass were the Grecian empire—and its legs of iron the Roman empire,—but Sir Isaac well observes, that by the legs of iron were only meant Italy and those countries which never composed any part of the three first empires; and when the Roman empire was divided into eastern and western, under two distinct emperors in the 4th century, the western was made up of those countries accordingly. The feet and toes of the image, which relates to the western Roman empire, are described by Daniel to be partly iron, partly clay, partly strong, and partly broken—and as iron and clay do not unite, neither were they to unite. The exact accomplishment of this is highly worthy of attention. By the ten toes it was predicted that it should be divided into ten kingdoms, and Sir Isaac proves that it was so in the year 408. It was, after this division, to be in part strong, and so were these kingdoms, for the followers of Mahomet and the Turks could make no permanent conquest within the bounds of the western Roman empire. It was also to be in part broken in its power, and so were these kingdoms, for they in vain poured forth their millions of crusaders into Asia, without being able to make any permanent conquest there. As iron and clay do not unite, neither have they been united from the year 408 to the present day. In vain did Charlemagne attempt it—in vain did the emperor Charles the 5th attempt it—in vain did Lewis the 14th attempt it; no, the God of Heaven had declared it should remain in a divided state, till the time should arrive when a universal kingdom was to be established on the earth. Kings and their ministers, without knowing it, have accomplished the fulfillment of this astonishing prophecy; and that balance of power, which has for so many centuries been attended to in Europe, is neither more nor less than keeping up that broken state of the western Roman empire HST September 13, 1843, page 31.10
After having described the image, Daniel proceeds, and says he beheld a stone cut out without hands, which smote the image on his feet, that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces; then was the iron, the clay, the brass, the silver, and the gold broken to pieces together, and became like the chaff of the summer threshing-floors, and the wind carried them away, that no place were found for them: and the stone that smote the image, became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth. To know more exactly what is meant by this stone, we have only to read the 7th chapter of Daniel. There the four great empires are more minutely treated of, under the description of four beasts, and instead of the ten kingdoms being described by toes, they are made the ten horns of the fourth beast; and when their destruction is mentioned, it is in these words—I saw in the night visions, and behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of Heaven, and came to the ancient of days, and they brought him near before him; and there was given him dominion and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. There cannot therefore be a doubt, but that the stone, and the personage thus pointed out is the Messiah, and so does Sir Isaac, and all the best of the commentators explain those passages. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.11
We read in the 23rd chapter of Jeremiah Behold, the day is come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous branch, and a king shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.—In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely, and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. Therefore behold the day is come, saith the Lord, that they shall no more say, the Lord liveth which brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt: but the Lord liveth, which brought up and which led the seed of the house of Israel out of the north country, and from all the countries whither I had driven them, and they shall dwell in their own land. Thus, sir, all the Jews, all the commentators, and I will be bold to say, all the best informed Christians unite in the opinion, that the Messiah is to come in power and glory, and to be actually and in person, the King of the kings of the earth. HST September 13, 1843, page 31.12
Sir, before I sit down, I think it right, publicly to declare the conduct I mean to pursue, should this bill pass into a law—I mean, sir, to submit to it without a murmur, until it be repealed, or until the sun shall miraculously withhold its light, and announce the appearance of Christ. Should this bill receive the royal assent, I mean to inculcate into the minds of all those who are sprung from me, or over whom I have the least influence, to pay it the most implicit obedience, till the Messiah shall demand their allegiance.—Acting under the strong conviction that I feel of its certainty, I say, sir, to you and to every member of this house, no matter on what side he sits; or how he has voted, if he in his heart love Ireland, let him rejoice! for her happiness approaches! I say unto every man in this house and out of this house, if he love virtue, let him rejoice! for the triumph of virtue is at hand! I say unto every man within and without these walls, if he be the friend of Christianity, no matter of what sect he be, let him rejoice! for its glorious Author is about to unfold all that is mysterious, and to remove every difficulty. I say to every man within and without these walls, whether he be a Christian or not, if he sincerely love his fellow creatures, let him rejoice! for that Messiah who suffered on the cross, is now about to accomplish all the objects of his mission—he is now about to take away the curse that followed the fall of Adam, and to renovate the earth. He is now about to establish a kingdom founded in justice, in truth, and in righteousness, that shall extend from pole to pole, and which shall place this hitherto wicked and miserable world upon the highest pinnacle of human happiness and human glory. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.1
The Maine Methodist Conference
We learn from the Bath Enquirer that the following resolutions were passed at the Maine Conference. They savor a little of the little horn; almost enough to come from one of the old woman’s daughters. They seem to require obedience to the church first, to God afterwards. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.2
1. Resolved, That every minister of the M. E. Church has virtually pledged himself, and every Elder has emphatically pledged himself to God and his church, always to minister the doctrines and discipline of Christ as the Lord hath commanded—To be ready with all faithful diligence to banish and drive away all erroneous and strange doctrines contrary to God’s word. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.3
2. Resolved, That the peculiarities of that theory relative to the second coming of Christ and the end of the world, denominated Millerism, together with all its modifications, are contrary to the standards of the Church, and we are constrained to regard them as among the erroneous and strange doctrines which we are pledged to banish away. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.4
3. Resolved, That though we appreciate the motives of those among us who have been engaged in disseminating those peculiarities, we cannot but regard their course in this respect as irreconcilably inconsistent with their ecclesiastical obligations, and as having an immediate and more particularly an ultimate disastrous tendency. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.5
Resolved, That those who persist in disseminating those peculiarities, either in public or private, and especially those who have left their appropriate work for this purpose, be admonished by the Chair, and all be hereby required to refrain entirely from disseminating them in future. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.6
CAMPMEETINGS
Second Advent Camp Meeting
At Exeter, N. H. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.7
A Second Advent Campmeeting will be held at Exeter, N. H., in a pleasant grove about 2 1-2 miles from the village, on the road leading to Dover, on the same ground occupied by the Methodists the present month. The meeting will commence on Tuesday, Sept. 26th, and continue one week. Brn. Miller, Cox, Marsh, Cole, Jones, Hervey, Haselton, Stockman, Churchill, and other efficient lecturers, are expected to attend. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.8
Passengers will be conveyed from Boston, Lowell, Portland, and the intermediate towns, at half the usual prices. Lecturers and preachers will be furnished with tickets by the committee. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.9
A large boarding tent will be provided for the accommodation of those who cannot furnish their own tents: but it is recommended that all who can, to bring their tents with them. Companies who wish for board and tents, can be furnished by addressing a line to the chairman of the committee. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.10
Board on the ground at $1,50 to $2,00 per week, 37 cts per day, and from 17 to 25 cts for a single meal. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.11
As the meeting will continue over the Sabbath, the cars will leave Portland and Haverhill in the morning and return in the evening. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.12
Brethren and friends are earnestly invited to attend the meeting. For Com. S. SWETT Chm. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.13
Sept. 7, 1843. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.14
ADVENT CAMPMEETING
There will be a Second Advent Meeting on land owned by Mr. Phillip Davis, (known as Davis’s Grove, on Tartle Hill,) about half a mile east from the Boston and Taunton Rail Road, three miles north of New Bedford, 17 south of Taunton, and 4 north of Fairhaven village, to commence Wednesday Sept. 20, at 2 P. M. Bro. White, of Wrentham, Mass., and Bro. Snow, of Brooklyn, Ct. are engaged. Bro. T. Cole and I. Taylor are expected, and all other lecturers, who can attend, are invited. All necessary provisions will be attended to for the accommodation of friends abroad. Come one, come all, and bring your tents. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.15
Per order, Z. BAKER. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.16
CAMPMEETING AT WINDSOR, CONN
There will be a Second Advent Campmeeting, if time continue, in Windsor, Ct. on land owned by Richard M. Brown, to commence Sept. 13, and continue one week or more. All Second Advent believers, and others that wish to enjoy the privileges of such a meeting, are requested to come with their tents. Good accommodations for board and horse-keeping can be had at a reasonable price. Arrangements have been made with the steam boat company to carry tent companies or families at 25 cts each from Springfield to the ground, and also from Hartford to the ground. The regular price is 37 1-2 cts. Able lecturers are engaged to attend, and we hope there will be a general attendance. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.17
AN ADVENT CAMPMEETING
Will be held on Davis’ Island, in this town, commencing the 18th of Sept. next, and continue thro’ the week. Bro. T. Cole and S. Jones are expected to be present. All Advent Lecturers, that can, are invited to attend. We hope our brethren, that can, will come with tents. Provision will be provided on the ground at reasonable rate for all that wish. The meeting will be held on the west side of the Island, near the bridge that connects with the main shore. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.18
Per order of the committee. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.19
Com.—J. M. Smith, F. Davis, I. A. Cole. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.20
Guilford, N. H. Aug. 24, 1843. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.21
ADVENT CAMPMEETING
Will be held, if the Lord will, in Winchendon, to commence on Thursday, the 14th of Sept. Let the saints come trusting in the God of Daniel, with tents. Board can be had on the ground on reasonable terms. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.22
Concord, N. H. Sept. 1st. 1843. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.23
The Campmeeting to be held in Concord, Sept. 15th. will be dispensed with, in consequence of other meetings in the vicinity. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.24
For Committee, C. S. Brown. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.25
J. S. Busswell. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.26
SECOND ADVENT CAMPMEETING
There will be an advent campmeeting, if time continues, in Exeter, Maine, about 20 miles from Bangor, near the road leading from Bangor to Dexter, on the same ground where it was held last Sept, to commence Wednesday, Sept, 13th, tents erected on the 12th, to continue a week or more; HST September 13, 1843, page 32.27
A New and Valuable Work
“This world to have no other Age or Dispensation. The present Organization of Matter, called Earth, to be destroyed by Fire. Also, Before the Event, Christians may know about the Time, when it shall occur. In a letter to a Friend. By L. C. Gunn.” HST September 13, 1843, page 32.28
This is a closely printed pamphlet, of 40 pages, published at 40 and 41 Arcade, Philadelphia, and for sale at this office. Price 12 1-2 cts. It presents a powerful array of Scripture proofs, clearly stated, and well arranged, which must convince the candid reader that all the propositions of the title page are true. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.29
Letters received to Sept. 9
Note.—Post Masters are authorized to send money for publications gratuitously; also to order and stop papers. Subscriber’s names, with the State and Post Office, should be distinctly given, when papers are ordered or discontinued. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.30
We find that some of our subscribers suppose our terms are $1 per year. They are $1 for a volume of 24 numbers, (6 months.) HST September 13, 1843, page 32.31
From Post-masters
Troy Me; West Prospect Me; Brookfield Vt; Brattleboro Vt 1; Middletown Ct; Woods Hole Me 1; Oneida Lake NY 2; Hartford Ct 1; Newark N J 1; Meriden Ct; So Gardner Mass; W Prospect Me 1; Orrington Me; Harvard; Meredith Centre N H 2; Northfield Ms 1; Newbury Vt; Tunbridge Vt; Deerfield N H; Gardner Ms 1; S Reading Vt; Rochester Vt 1; S Dover Me; Greensbury Ia 2; Lancaster N H. S Ware N H 1; E Sheldon Vt; Hartford Ct; Wellington Ct 2; Walpole Ms 1; Fairfield Corners Me; W Boscawen 1; E Washington N H; Levant Me 2; Mason; Taftsville Vt 1; Portsmouth N H 1; Landaff N H 2; Low Hampton N Y 4; Middletown Vt 1; Vernon Ct; Washington DC; Jacksonville Ill. 2; Hudson N Y 1; Saratoga Springs N Y 1; Sharon Vt; Derby Line, Vt 1; Rockford Ill 1; No Fairhaven Ms 1 HST September 13, 1843, page 32.32
Individuals
Dea Woods, Groton, by the hand of sister K, $7 for Signs of the Times, and $6 for Mid. Cry; Jno Baxton, cannot furnish those numbers; T L Tullock; Geo W Peavy 10; L Boutell; R Tilton 1; S Himes; D W Gilchrist; Wm I Hart 5, the letters were not received at this office; Prosper Powell 1, postage 50 cts, the postmaster should frank all letters containing money for newspapers; Laporte Ind 1; Wm L. Phipps 2; Geo A Reed, your papers are still sent, the one to Mason O is paid to No 72; $2 due to the end of Vol 5; the one to Guildhall is paid to 128; there will be $4 due on your three papers to the close of Vol 6.—D H Gould 1; J Bricknell; B Perham; John Pierce 1; Olive Ross 1; Mary Langley; Mary Dutton; E S Loomis 1; C Fitch; Jane Lang 1; H A Dickinson; I Williamson; One letter dated Rehoboth Sept 7, stating that the ‘Signs’ is not received, but has no name to it; will the writer please explain? S Atwood 1; E Furguson; G Summers 1; Z Baker. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.33
Bundles Sent
J V Himes 9 Spruce St NY; W B Start, Camden, Me; Elisha Ferguson, Starksboro’ Vt.; J V Himes, 9 Spruce St NY. HST September 13, 1843, page 32.34