Signs of the Times and Expositor of Prophecy [Himes], vol. 5
June 14, 1843
Vol. V.—No. 15. Boston, Whole No. 111
Joshua V. Himes
THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES,
AND EXPOSITOR OF PROPHECY.
Terms.—$1,00 per Vol. (24 Nos.) in advance Office NO. 14 Devonshire Street, Boston. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.1
THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
J. V. Himes, J. Litch, and S. Bliss, Editors
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 June 14, 1843, page 113.2
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 June 14, 1843, page 113.3
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 June 14, 1843, page 113.4
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 June 14, 1843, page 113.5
V. There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, that extend beyond the year 1843. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.6
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 June 14, 1843, page 113.7
Points of Difference between us and our opponents. 1. We hold that the prophetic days of Daniel and John, are years; as did Wesley, Scott, Clark, Fletcher, the learned Joseph Mede, Faber, Prideaux, Dr. Hales, Bishop Newton, and Sir Isaac Newton, with all the standard protestant commentators. Our opponents claim they are simply days or halt days! HST June 14, 1843, page 113.8
2. We claim that the prophecies of Daniel and John are historical prophecies, extending to the end of time, as all Christians have held, according to the undoubted testimony of historians, till our day. And we do not see that the end is brought to view at all if it is not in these prophecies. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.9
Our opponents, to say the least, leave us in doubt whether they have not all been fulfilled in the past. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.10
3. We claim that the ninth of Daniel is an appendix to the eighth, and that the seventy weeks and the 2300 days or years, commence together. Our opponents deny this. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.11
If the “EXCEEDING GREAT HORN” of Daniel 8. is ROME, as all standard protestant commentators admit, it follows that the 2300 days must be years. And as the 2300 days extend to the cleansing of the sanctuary, and the sanctuary is to be desolated to the end of the world; if they begin with the seventy weeks, it follows that we have approached the very consummation, and may look daily for the coming of the Son of God. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.12
Professor Stuart
We copy the following from “The Hierophant,” edited by Prof. Bush. It is a comment on an article written by Prof. Stuart on “The Number of the beast of the Apocalipse,” in No. 2 of the “Bibliotheca Sacra.” HST June 14, 1843, page 113.13
Prof. Bush says that “He (Prof. Stuart) undertakes to show that the “number of a man” means a number which, when expressed in letters, designates the name of a man; and here, of course, the name of the man who is symbolized by the Beast. But if the reader seeks farther to know the particular “man” who is thus symbolically represented, he will find himself engaged in a bootless quest, although it is obvious, as he expressly says, that he thinks Nero was symbolized by the Beast, that the name of Nero ought to be couched in the mystic number. But as the number obstinately refuses to yield this name, he consents, rather unexpectedly to us, to the prevailing Protestant solution, and considers the name to be “Lateinos.” But as the beast is by his own admission the symbol of the Roman or Latin empire, it is evident that “Lateinos” is the name of an empire and not of a man, and that it would be just as proper to say that “Americanus,” the national epithet of the American people, is the name of an individual. It avails nothing to say, as he does, that “in the case before us there hardly can be a question, that the name designated, although the ‘name of a man,’ must be a name that is common to many men.” It is, on the contrary, a point of very great question whether arithmos anthropou, (number of a man,) can possibly be understood as a national designation. We should have been glad to see a portion of the requisite ‘wisdom’ insisted on by the prophet in the attempt to solve this grand mystery, brought to establish the position which is here so gratuitously assumed. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.14
Again, Prof. Stuart remarks that “John, means to say, in an occult way, that the first beast is a symbol of heathen persecuting Rome.” This, we are aware, is the interpretation uniformly put upon the symbol by the Romanist expositors, in order to free themselves from the disagreeable necessity of recognizing a faithful portrait of their own Papal empire in the beast that comes out of the bottomless pit and ‘goes into perdition.’ But this is the first instance that has come to our knowledge of a Protestant writer’s complaisaintly conceding to them the very position which they have ever been so anxious to maintain, and from which they have been again and again so triumphantly driven. With the argumentative weapons by which this dislodgement has been achieved, as they have been wielded mostly by those who have used the English language, we have some doubts whether Prof. S. is at all familiar, or whether he would allow them any weight if he were. We cannot at present take it upon us to recite them, but we would respectfully intimate to Prof. S., that it has been found extrmely difficult by those who presume to think it worthy of the Spirit of God to shadow forth in this book those great historical events which have borne from age to age on the destitnies of the church, to understand how it is that the heathen Roman empire answers to all the conditions of this mystic beast. Especially they have not been able to satisfy themselves as to the import of the ten crowned horns, considered in this relation. While they have no difficulty in identifying the powers represented by the horns under the Christian Roman empire in the ten sovereigns (more or less) that rose out of the dismembered fragments of the empire after its overthrow by the Goths, they are utterly at fault in detecting any thing which shall correspond to the imagery, either in the person or the age of Nero; for to him the Professor’s eye appears to be exclusively directed upon every mention of the Apocalyptic beast. Thus he observes p. 348, “The persecuting, the bloodthirsty, the impious, the idolatrous, the blasphemous beast, is the Roman power, as wielded by Nero, that incarnate fiend who laid waste the church of God with unrelenting fury. I do not say that it is confined merely and entirely to Nero; but the description—the imagery of the whole—is drawn from him. He is the original of it.” Poor Nero! he was a sorry emperor and a great rascal, no doubt; and deserves little pity at our hands; but we had never before dreamed of dealing with him as he did with the Christians, of wrapping him up in the huge skin of this imperial beast, and then setting fire to him, as the prophecy certainly does to this unmitigable monster of the vision. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.15
But we wave at present any furthur remarks on the enucleations of Prof. S. If in his forthcoming work on the Apocalypse, he will condescend to bestow a few paragraphs on the solution of the difficulties above suggested, and tell us what particular form of the Roman empire the beast of John represents, and to which the mystic number applies, we shall perhaps be more ready to believe that we are listening to a true palmoni, or wonderful numberer. We shall at any rate wait with great interest to see with what implements he shall undertake to cut through the mountains of absurd consequences flowing from the position, that the beast of John represents the heathen Roman empire, whether under the headship of Nero or anybody else.” HST June 14, 1843, page 113.16
The Destruction of the Cities of the Plain
by e. w. chester, esq.
The sun rose in his brightness. Nature smiled in her wonted loveliness. The heavens gave no portents—the earth bespoke no coming desolation. Far around Sodom and Gomorrah stretched the plains covered with rich verdure. The night had been spent in accustomed revelry, and now the exhausted sons and daughters of mirth were gathering from morning repose, strength for renewed debaucheries. All was quiet within the walls—no fears disturbed the careless dreamers. HST June 14, 1843, page 113.17
There is a state of society where the daily business is mirth, where care and serious reflection find no place. All live for the hour, heeding not the future in the reckless enjoyment of the present. It is a condition of society fraught with present evil and future danger. The soul rises not above earth in its aspirations, its tendencies are downwards, and intellect, which should elevate to heaven, only helps to a degradation to which brute beings can never reach. So it was in Sodom and Gomorrah. A mild clime and fertile country had produced wealth and luxury—these had come with no attendant refinement—no educated mind, no high mental endowment awoke that ambition which sometimes raises even the wicked above grovelling pleasures. Here the heart hardened by iniquity had no redeeming, no palliating virtues. Pleasure was sought in its grossest forms, and violence prevailed unmitigated in all its varieties. The kinder affections and better feelings of our nature found no home—not even amidst those relations which have some softening influence in savage life.—Parental affection and conjugal ties, and the decencies of social life, had become extinct in the midst of wickedness which alike defied God and nature. There was here the blackness of moral darkness—a darkness that might be felt, had not all the moral sensibilities become extinct. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.1
Such and much more was the condition of the cities of the plain, and its inhabitants wearied with pleasure, had retired to rest: some perhaps even after that sun had risen so brightly—expecting again to renew their nightly orgies. But the last day has dawned on their cities—the sun has arisen that shall see a yet more maddening scene—a scene not of mirth and revelry, but one at which hearts that had ceased to feel shall quake with terror. Of all who throng these streets by day or shout in the wild carouse at night—how many shall see that sun descend in the west? Where will be that multitude, but yesterday so gay, so thoughtless—where these cities with their wealth and splendor? HST June 14, 1843, page 114.2
Yet all is quiet—no cloud bedims the horizon—no lurid gale marks the coming desolation. To one alone has a warning come—to one, and to his family for his sake, worshipper of the living God—thou man who alone midst all this throng has been wont to bend the knee before the fearful Ruler of the universe—tarry not—judgment has been given against the place of thy habitation—the doom of these cities is sealed—the messenger has sped on his way—the kindly warning comes in happy time—but heed it—delay not in all the plain. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.3
And now the man of prayer is flying to the mountains, and he must not stay even to drop a tear over the sad fate of one, who instead of casting wishful looks back on the doomed cities, with hurried feet should have kept by his side. But just now a wife, now a lifeless pillar of salt, he must not stop to bewail her end. In the mountain only is safety—away!—away! Lot, from the polluted soil. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.4
He is safe, and stands on the mountain’s brow. Hark! what peal is that on the plains below?—Why changes the sun his face to lurid fire, bloody in its colors and vengeful with wrath in its seeming? What terrific flashes now dart across the Plain, now blot out the sun with a blaze of fearful brightness? The very elements are on fire—the earth heaves in agony—the ear is deafened with the thunder in louder and still louder roar, as if nature were in a deadly conflict with herself. But hark again! what, in the brief interval of the thunder’s peal, is that distant cry that in its shrillness pierces the far-off ear? That is not now the voice of revelry—there is no gushing laugh there—no music sends its notes across the plain—no mirth gives forth its shouts from yonder walls. It is a fearful cry—a cry more dreadful than the angry noise of the embattled elements—screams more terrific than nature’s wildest hoarsest voice, even when commissioned for destruction by the Most High. Let me shut my ears—let the thunder, in its mercy, drown that maddened cry—it is the terrified voice of man, of woman and child, when every limb is convulsed, and the very nerves shaking to dissolution. What now are the thoughts to which that phrenzied multitutde have awakened? Conscience from a lethargy long and death-like, springs up into the fullness of vigor. A thousand sins, gross and deadly, rush clustering on the startled memory—there is no time for repentance, but embittering remorse the minutes to seeming ages, but all too short for escape from the impending doom. Fear would give wings to their feet, but whither shall they fly? Nature itself comes armed with vengeance. Here—yonder—all around—the sky, the earth is crying against the guilty. Mothers turn aghast from the reproaches of children instructed from infancy only in sin—fathers would gladly escape the ghastly faces of sons in their very youth grown old in iniquity. They would willingly find among the terrified multitude the only man who could raise his hands and voice to heaven to ward off the coming destruction. But wherever the eye turns it is met only by a living mass of moral corruption, ripe for devouring vengeance. Hearts besotted with sensuality quake in deadly terror; and well they may, for it is a fearful thing to the unrepentant to fall, their sins uncanceled, into the hands of the living God. And around these scenes of wickedness is gathered and bursting forth vials of long-deserved wrath. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.5
And the lightning, to which the light of day is darkness, and thunder piled on louder peals on the deafened ear, palsy every nerve, and the limbs grow rigid with fear, when suddenly the sulphurous smell and scorching atmosphere give pressage of the last act of this mighty drama. And now a lurid flame, in one broad living sheet of liquid fire, descends on yonder cities.—The last fearful wail has gone up—the death scream from a thousand voices had reached the mountains—a broad gulf of burning sulphur covers the cities but yesterday teeming with life—mothers with their children—fathers with their sons—all, all have been engulfed—life and revelry had ceased together—all, all were sealed in a moment for a yet more dreadful day. They shall again come forth, but no city or abode of men shall ever again fill the places of these cities of the plain. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.6
Mother’s Magazine. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.7
Philadelphia Conference
Dear Brother Bliss.—I forward you a very brief notice of the late Second Advent Conference, and also some remarks relative to our association. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.8
The Conferential exercises commenced Lords day 14th inst., and continued until Saturday. 27th. Brethren Storrs, Litch, Plummer, Hervey, Brewer, Brown, Barry, Thomas, and Cook, were with us. The dormant feelings of the community as to the advent, were somewhat aroused, and we doubt not good has been the result of the varied exercises. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.9
The experience of the ministering brethren, as given relative to their experience as to the great subject, was peculiarly interesting. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.10
A mission to Virginia was proposed, and funds raised for that purpose. Brothers Brown and Barry to go. Brother Brown has just left. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.11
As to the association, I would say, that in March last, some of the brethren deeming it better to unite their efforts in behalf of the second advent cause, associated themselves by enrolling their names as members of the “Philadelphia Second Advent Association, for relative Missionary Purposes.” Their object being the diffusion of relative light through the medium of the various measures that might be found effective. Having no constitution, bye-laws, or anything bearing the stamp of organization, it could not be said we were forming a new sect; and confining our operations to advent missionary labors, no ground was given for animadversion. Consequently the brethren and sisters thus associated, though attached to all the different churches, not only have retained their influence and standing there, but have been able to act efficiently as a body, in favor of the great principles which we advocate. This course is also directly tending to keep us together in the faith of the advent near, while perfect harmony has reigned, and denominational distinctions been forgotten. A standing committee of twenty were appointed, to act as representatives of the brethren, and carry out, and fulfil their views and designs. Public meetings have been constantly held in the city, (the hitherto neglected colored population being particularly attended to,) while laborers have been sent to the adjoining states, and through the blessing of God, much good has been done. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.12
I will not however enlarge, but close by forwarding our kind greetings to the Boston brethren. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.13
Yours, for the cause of the Redeemer.
Charles Greene. Cor. Sec. of the P. S. A. A.
Philadelphia, May 31, 1843.
Letter from Brother S. Foster, Jr
Dear Brother Himes,—Although a stranger to you, permit me to address you a few words. I am one that the world call crazy, deluded, etc. But bless God, if I was ever in my right mind, I have been since last fall. I listened to a course of lectures delivered by C. Green, and have since heard brother H. B. Skinner and brother Caldwell, and have been convinced that we are on the eve of time, and the great day of the Lord draweth nigh. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.14
Brother C. Green and R. Hutchinson are now in Canada, and are doing all their means will allow them, to wake up the sleepy church and warn sinners to repentance. They propose printing a paper for a short time, and the first extra “Watchman” is going to press now. The printer must have his pay in advance, and the sooner you send me the receipts the better. We, in Canada, ought to be ashamed of ourselves that we cannot support the paper and the dear brothers that come to do us good; but money is very scarce, and but few of those that have money are believers in the coming of our dear Redeemer this 1000 years. A few of us have managed, by the assistance of good people from the States, to do what we have. May God add his blessing to all who have been so kind as to assist in this great cause. HST June 14, 1843, page 114.15
Give my best respects to brother Skinner and family, if you should see them; when he left here he was quite unwell. I hope and trust the good seed of the Lord has been sown, through the instrumentality of brethren Litch and Green, in Canada. Time alone will unfold the amount of good. May God add his blessing to all our dear friends that have been called to sound the Midnight Cry. Yours, etc HST June 14, 1843, page 114.16
Derby Line, May 16, 1843.
PLAN OF CALCULATING THE PROPHETIC PERIODS
SCALE OF TIME FROM CREATION
THE TWO THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED DAYS. Daniel 8:14
| 2300 | ||
| Begun B. C. | —457 Ezra 7:12-26. | |
| Ends A. D. | 1843 | |
| 2300 | ||
| Take 70 weeks | —490 Daniel 9:24, 25. | |
| 1810 | ||
| Add A. D. | 33 | |
| 1843 | ||
THE SEVENTY WEEKS. Daniel 9:25
| 7 | weeks | X7=49 days |
| 62 | ” | X7=434 ” |
| 1 | ” | X7=7 |
| 70 | ” | X7=490 |
| Began B.C.—457 Ezra 7:12-26 | ||
| A. D. | 33 | |
| 1810 | ||
| A. D. | 1843 | |
THE FIFTH AND SIXTH TRUMPETS. Revelation 9:5, 15
| Fifth Trumpet began, A. D. 1299, July 27. | |
| 5 months = 150 days = 150 years. | |
| Sixth Trumpet began, A. D. 1449, July 27. | |
| 1 year = | 360 days |
| 1 months = | 30 ” |
| 1 day = | 1 ” |
| 1 hour = | 1-24th ” |
| 391 1-24th ” = | 391 years 15 days. |
Sixth trumpet ended A. D. 1840, Aug. 11.
THE TIME, TIMES AND A HALF. Daniel 7:25
| 3 1-2 times. | |
| 12 | |
| 42 months. | |
| 30 | |
| 1260 days. | |
| A. D. | 538 Papacy established in Rome. |
| A. D. | 1798 Papacy lost civil power. |
| 45 time of the end. | |
| A. D. | 1843. |
THE SEVEN TIMES. Levit. xxvi
| 7 times. | |
| 12 | |
| 84 months. | |
| 30 | |
| 2520 days. | |
| B. C. | —677 begun. 2 Chronicles 33:11 |
| A. D. | 1843 |
THE 1290 AND 1335 DAYS. Daniel 12:11, 12
| Begun A. D. | 508 |
| 1290 | |
| Ended A. D. | 1798 |
| Time of the end | 45 |
| 1843 | |
| Begun A. D. | 508 |
| 1335 | |
| Ends | 1843 |
ISRAEL’S CAPTIVITY
| Under Babylon | 140 |
| Media and Persia | 205 |
| Grecia | 174 |
| Pagan Rome | 666 |
| Kings | 30 |
| Papacy | 1260 |
| Time of the end | 45 |
| 2520 | |
| Begun B. C. | —677 |
| 1843 |
Note. The design of the above chart and tables is to present at a glance the methods of computing the various prophetic periods, for a full explanation of which reference must be had to “Miller’s Lectures,” “Life and Views,” etc. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.1
The chart at the head of the page gives a scale of time for 6000 years from creation, with the average length of the prophetic periods, the dates of their commencement termination, etc. For proof of the age of the world being 6000 years, see Miller’s Life and Views, p. 30. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.2
The seven times of Levit. 26. give us the 2520 years that the people of God are to be trodden down by their enemies till the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled, and which began when Manasseh was taken captive and carried to Babylon, B. C. 677. The various periods that the Church have been subject to different powers, is shown under the head of Israel’s Captivity. See Sec. Adv. Library, No. 14. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.3
The 2300 days of Daniel 8. extend from the going forth of the decree of Artaxerxes Longimanus, B. C. 457, to the consummation of all things; and denote the length of the vision in that chapter. These days are proved to be years, by the fulfilment of the 70 weeks in 490 years, A. D. 33—in just as many years as there are days in 70 weeks. And the 490 years terminating in 33, the 2300 must terminate in 1843, or 1810 years from the end of the 490. See Miller’s Lectures, p. 39. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.4
The 1290 and 1335 days of Daniel 12., began with the abolishing of Paganism in A. D. 508, when also the abomination of desolation was set up; for in that year was the first ecclesiastical war, and Papacy was pushing as a horn, but did not gain the supremacy till Rome was conquered by Justinian, and the Arians were given into its hands, A. D. 538. The 1290 days reached till the time of the end, when the king of the south (Egypt) pushed at Bonaparte, 1798; and the 1335 reach to the end itself, when Daniel and all the redeemed stand in their lot and shine as the firmament forever, even forever and ever. See Miller’s Lectures, p. 100. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.5
The time, times and a half, began with the supremacy of Papacy, in A. D. 538, when the Pope first had power over the lives of Christians to put them to death for heresy, and terminated with the overthrow of the Pope when taken prisoner by Berthier, a general of Napoleon’s, in 1798, at which time the inquisition was abolished, and since which the Papists have had no legal power over the lives of Christians; or have not dared to execute it. See Sec. Adv. Library, No. 6. p. 45. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.6
The Fifth and Sixth Trumpets are two of the three woe trumpets of Revelation 9. The Fifth Trumpet began to sound on the 27th of July, 1299, when the Turks made their first attack upon the Greek empire; and continued five prophetic months, or 150 years, to 1449. when the Greek monarch made a voluntary surrender of his power into the hands of the Turks, but continued on the throne by permission till 1453, when Constantinople was besieged and taken. The Sixth Trumpet began to sound when Decaozes asked the consent of Amureth to reign, in 1449, and continued “an hour, a day, a month, and a year,” in prophetic time, or 391 years and 15 days from the end of the 150 years, and terminated on the 11th of Aug. 1840, when the Sultan made a like voluntary surrender of his power into the hands of the four powers of Europe; and now reigns by their permission, the same as did the Greek monarch when this trumpet began to sound in 1449. See Sec. Adv. Library. No. 20, p. 151. HST June 14, 1843, page 115.7
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, JUNE 14, 1843.
The Conversion of the World
It is strange that the church should be so blind to her true interests, and amuse herself with a bawble when there are such substantial realities within her grasp. If she would but preach the coming of Christ, as did the apostles and primitive Christians, her labors would be as signally blessed as were the labors of those self-denying martyrs, and as has also been the labors of all in these last days who have gone forth on the same errand of mercy to a slumbering world and sleeping church. Wherever the advent at hand has been preached, sinners have been converted in multitudes to God; but where the conversion of the world has been prominently presented, it has served to lull sinners to sleep, and caused them to forget that a day of vengeance is coming. It is truly a matter of astonishment that they are unwilling to believe the plain simple word of God. If they would take that word as it is, they would see that the heathen, instead of being converted, when they are given to Christ are to be broken with a rod of iron and dashed in pieces like a potter’s vessel. If the church could see this, and could feel that what is done must be done quickly, they would no longer lull the world to sleep with opiates of peace when there is no peace, saith the Lord, but would put forth all their energies to arouse the world, that sinners might forsake their sins while yet there was hope. Now is the only acceptable time of which we have any assurance, and if this truth was preached with all its fearful import, by those who are looked upon as guides, how many would turn to God, who now care for none of these things. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.1
Aside from the declarations in the word of God, it would seem that the present aspect of the world would entirely preclude such an idea. There is no outward indication of any such consummation. In heathen lands schools are being closed, missionaries are being withdrawn, and the hearts of the natives are becoming more closely joined to their idols. In more Christian lands the HORN of Rome is making war with the saints, and prevailing against them, as he is predicted to do till the Ancient of Days shall come. Infidelity is also increasing with gigantic strides; while the very church herself is fast losing sight of many of the most precious doctrines of the word of God. The glorious doctrine of the resurrection is now but little more than an empty sound; and the Advent itself, of which Isaiah sung, and Daniel and John marked the time of its gloryse expressly denied by many, and disregarded by others. Immorality, and every species of crime are fast increasing in communities the most moral; and man is beginning to lose all confidence in his fellow-man. Thus, while heathenism is progressing in our land faster than Christianity does in heathen lands, there seems no outward token of the world’s conversion. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.2
One reason why so little advancement has been made in checking the spread of iniquity, is found in misdirected effort. As the church has become wealthy and popular, pride has crept into it, and was manifested itself in the construction of georgeous temples of worship, velvet cushioned, mahogany pulpits and pews, while the heathen have perished for lack of knowledge. If the millions of money which have been thus sacrificed to pampered pride, had been seat to heathen lands, what good, might have been effected. Again, the style in which Christians have lived, has been a libel upon the name of Him who had not where to lay his head, and who has commanded us not to lay up treasures in this world. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.3
Also the money which is spent in sustaining the useless machinery of many of our benevolent societies might have been of vast amount of good in the, advancement of benevolence. Thus in the “Foreign Evangelical Society,” more than ten thousand dollars were raised the past year, and all but four thousand were expended in agencies and miscellaneous expenses; not one half of what was raised reached! its destination. A contemporary says it reminds him of the story of a man who gave one dollar to send the gospel to the heathen, and then handed out a ten dollar bill as he said to pay its expenses to those for whom it was intended. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.4
In 1839, twenty-three thousand dollars were expended by the “American Board” for a palace called “Missionary House,” in “Pemberton Square,” Boston. Had this money been expended for the purpose those expected, by whom it was contributed in widows’ and orphans’ mites in fractions of a dollar, much good might have been accomplished. The plea for such an expenditure was, that it would be needed as their operations became more extensive. They expected a millennium when this pile of brick would be a kind of Vatican; but instead of their operations becoming more extensive, its in come has fallen off more than one third during the past year. To pay the salaries of four secretaries alone six thousand dollars are every year appropriated, besides the salaries of all the various agents and clerks who are in various ways connected with it. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.5
These are painful truths, but justice demands that the truth should be known. Why will not the church arouse from her stupidity, and prepare for the Bridegroom’s coming. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.6
Christian Union
The devil is never better pleased than when he can get Christians at enmity with each other. He is therefore highly delighted that the church of Christ is sub-divided into so many sects. He then knows that the world will not believe, for true Christians are one. For many years the sects have verily believed that they could not see eye to eye: but the doctrine of the advent has shown to the world that Christians can forget all sectarian differences; and where true advent believers are found there they will be found of one heart and one spirit, waiting for the coming of the Lord. Such a state of things the devil will always try to destroy, and it becomes all Christians to guard against his wiles in that respect. Therefore, says the apostle, “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 plain 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.” Romans 16:17-20. The servants of the Lord have nothing to do with divisions; for such come from without, from those who are carnal, sold into sin. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.7
The Adventists have found that as they all worship the same Lord, and are loooking for his coming, they can love each other as brethren, and love is the fulfilling of the law. This practical “union” is one cause why our labors have been so signally blessed. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.8
We have labored together without organization, but yet have lived in each others hearts. Now and then, as was to be expected, individuals have gone out from us, but they went out from us because they were not of us; had they been of us they would doubtless have continued with us. It is a matter of congratulation that all those who have labored together so long, have labored so harmoniously, and are still actuated by the same glorious purposes. The devil has predicted that the word of the Lord will fail, and that Adventists will turn infidels. Doubtless the faith of all who look for the Lord will be thoroughly tested, and any false-hearted will turn away again to the weak and beggarly elements of this world, but they that endure to the end the same shall be saved. Let us therefore hold last the profession of our faith without wavering, mark and avoid those who seek divisions, be of the same mind one towards another, and watch unto prayer, with our lights trimmed and burning. Let none draw us away from our allegiance. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.9
“To the law and to the testimony.”
“If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them,”—Isaiah 8:20. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.10
This text should be engraved as a motto upon the tablet of every heart, and as a frontlet between the eyes, and upon the palms of our hands. It should be “graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock forever.” It should stand as a beacon to warn us of the rocks over which so many have stumbled to perdition. And it should draw us from the precipice, from which we surely will fall, if we leave the sure word of God. The Lord hath spoken, and we should heed his word. When he speaks, he heavens should hear, the earth should give ear to his word, and all creation should stand in awe before him. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.11
If the word of the Lord is not a sufficient assurance to any, such would not believe though one should rise from the dead; or if they should believe, in a time of trial they would fall away. But those who are builded and grounded on the word of God, have a rock upon which they can stand forever, and which can never fail. Though the rains descend, and the floods beat upon it, a will remain unmoved. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.12
We should measure all truth by this word, and if it will stand the test of the law and the testimony, receive it into pure and honest hearts. And if it will not abide that test, we should reject it as unworthy of reception. A simple “thus saith the Lord,” should always be a sufficient reason for his children. And we should believe it because the Lord hath spoken. Abraham, we are told, believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. “He staggered not at the promises of God through unbeleif; but was strong in the faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that what he had promised, he was also to perform.” Here is where we should all stand. We should first enquire “what has God promised?” and then we should believe it. We should not stagger at his promises, but should be strong in the faith, giving glory to God, knowing that what he has promised he is able and willing to perform to the very letter. For though heaven and earth shall pass away, not one jot or little of his word will ever fail. HST June 14, 1843, page 116.13
Do the Universalists believe their doctrine?—We answer No. If proof is wished for, we will point to every paper published by them. We find them all bitterly opposed to the Advent doctrine, and unwilling it should prove true. Now if they believed that they and all men would be saved, not a soul of them would have the least objection of all going to heaven this year; and their opposition to Christ’s coming, proves that they have nothing to hope from his coming, and do not expect to be saved if he should come. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.1
To Correspondents.—We have received quite a number of articles on the 24th chapter of Matthew; but as we have published so many articles on that portion of scripture, and intend to give brother Storr’s view in our next paper, our correspondents will excuse us if we are obliged to omit their favors. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.2
Brother L. M. Brown, writes us that in Newbury, N. H. many have been made to rejoice in the prospect of soon seeing the Savior. There are those there who like Simeon of old are waiting for the consolation of Israel. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.3
Daniel Sharp, D. D.—This distinguished minister, long Pastor of the Charles street Baptist church in this city, preached last Sabaath June 4th, at Mr. Neal’s church at the corner of Hanover and Union streets. His sermon consisted in some very severe animadversions on the Adventists. Besides severe and reproachful remarks on our doctrine, he gave us the charitable title of “scoundrels,” which he repeated with emphasis. The Lord have mercy upon him. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.4
Foreign Evangelical Society.—According to their report at the last anniversary, the total expenditures of that society, during the past year, have been $9,777,00. The expenditures of the Romanists during the same period, have been much larger’ than that sum, even in our own country, to establish the Roman supremacy here, besides the thousands that have been expended in other countries for a similar object. At this ratio it would require a long time for the Protestant religion to get the ascendency over Romanism. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.5
Spread of Papacy.—Is there no danger of the Pope’s getting the supremacy? Read the following from Rev. Mr. Kirk’s remarks before the Foreign Evangelical Society. He says: HST June 14, 1843, page 117.6
I feel that I am called upon to denounce the Papal system. I deprecate the growing indifference of Protestant churches, as to the spread of this system. There are reasons, deep as hell and high as heaven, why we should oppose this system. Rome and hell are joined in hellish league against Christianity. If we are wrong in such a conclusion, may God forgive us. There are, to my own mind, indications that trouble is near, even at the very doors. This is enough to crush my spirit. I believe that we are approaching serious times. I believe that the times require that we should be men of prayer zeal benevolence. I believe there will be a mighty effort to make this land a Catholic land. The Jesuit is among us—sly, hypocritical, and grasping as ever. He is here too, in this very house—and mark it, Rome shall hear the story of this night—mark it well. The great question is, who is for Christ? The Jesuit is among us. If you are fond of pleasure, he will weave a silken web around you—if you are fond of logical disquisitions, he will reason with you—if of poetry, he will be poetical. It is not that Protestant children will I go to Jesuit schools, that we have reason to be alarmed. But he will come asking for a portion of the school fund—then for remuneration for a convent, which probably he had as much hand in burning as anybody else. He will ask of the people, all very kindly, when did he ever feel unkindly toward Protestant heretics? He will ask, all very gently, smoothly, softly—does not mean to startle anybody—has a great liking for the fleece, and a little of the mutton along with it. I respect the great body of Catholics—the laity, many of them, are unsuspecting as the infant of the designs of the priesthood. But I ask them to take warning. When they can get the poor Irishman down, it will not be long before they will have the American down also. What I dread is our half-Protestantism—half-Puseyism. Unless we are Protestant to the core we are gone. When the last speaker said that the Professors in our Theological Seminaries did nothing by way of instruction and warning in regard to this contest, he spoke according to his own experience. When I was in Princeton, Dr. Alexander—than whom there is not a more far-sighted man—said, Young gentlemen, prepare yourselves for the Roman controversy, for you must meet it. Said I, that is the dotage of an old man. But the contest is begun. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.7
The Catholics intend to have possession of Boston, of our Faneuil Hall, of our State House—and I should not respect them if they did not. Said a gentleman to me, the other day, if it were only fashionable to go to Catholic church on the Sabbath, you would be astonished at the names and numbers of those who would go. Rome is going about among us, with her witchery, and charms, and politeness, to secure patronage and favor from just such as these. She wishes to make it very unpopular to speak against Rome. It is, then, the nominal Protestants whom I fear—not the Catholics, not them—nor Rome, if she were to plant a chapel on every acre of American soil, and a splendid cathedral in every ten miles square. I confess—when I think Protestants in America are in danger of becoming Catholics; that Protestant America is going to pray to the Virgin Mary, and confess her sins to a priest, and burn wax candles in her temples of worship, and make the sign of the cross, and count I the beads in her rosary—the very idea makes me laugh, as being so supremely ridiculous. And then I weep, because I fear that it may be so. Protestantism is not thoroughly Protestant. What a pity it is that Luther did make so much trouble, and the reformers too—many will say—and many do say. I do believe that many of the middling classes will go over, because they do not believe that Rome is what she is. Let them go to Rome, and see how abject, how degraded Romanism makes them there, who are in the same ranks in life. Let them see them crouching at the feet of Roman power, and kissing the toe of St. Peter, cut out of stone, and then come back to free, Protestant America, and be, Catholics if they can. We are an unsuspecting people. We will not believe that we have any grounds for fear. We cannot believe that there is a traitor among us, that would betray us into the power of a tyrant. Romanism does not come to abridge our sinful tendences, to interfere in our wrong courses. What does Rome say? Let me keep your conscience—get drunk, run riot as you please, be a mere automaton, to pull trigger and fire when you are bid, and as for the rest, do as you please. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.8
Letter from Low Hampton
Dear brother Himes:—I have just returned from Hubbardton, to visit the greatly afflicted family of brother Miller. He has been very low for the last two weeks, in addition to the numerous carbuncle biles, he had caught cold which brought on a fever, and all together, have brought him to death’s doors. This fever greatly enraged his other complaints, but now, though very low, we think there is a fair prospect of his recovery. His physician decides that he is better of his disorder, that his blood is cleansed, and that he will soon be better than he has been for years past. This long confinement, excruciating pain, and great debility, has almost discouraged him, but still his trust is in God. He is still firm in his published views that Christ is near to deliver his saints from pain and sorrow. His trembling has greatly decreased, his sores are healing, and his symptoms are all good. We feel that our Father in Heaven has heard our many prayers, and will yet accomplish much through him. The rest of the family are all enjoying a good degree of health, considering their great anxiety and labors. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.9
I have been lecturing for this ten days in Hubbardton where I feel good has been done by the truth of the Advent near, many of the slumbering Virgins are aroused, and sinners are fleeing the wrath to come. Also in Benson, the Lord has quickened and comforted his saints, and we hope brought some to feel their need of a Savior. There the line seems to be drawn. Most of the Congregationalists and Methodists are opposed—and O the dearth! Brother M. Williamson, a Methodist brother, has had his license to preach, taken from him because he would give the cry, behold he cometh. He withdrew and joined the Baptist church, and is now preaching again. He has the sympathy of the community, is a worthy brother, and will do much. He is bold and fearless. I have baptized 10 Good also has been effected in West Haven, where I spent four days; and in all these places the prejudices have given way, which have arisen from the thousand and one lies put in circulation by a hireling priesthood, worldly church, and the avowed enemies of God and Zion. I commence a course of lectures to-day at Fair Haven, two miles east of this. O how great the ignorance on this momentous subject, so near the residence of him to whom we are all under God, so much indebted. But so it is to be, none of the wicked shall understand; may the Lord have mercy on them. I some expect to go to Glen’s Falls in case brother Miller should not be able soon; but I have tarried so long to accompany him, that I begin to feel that my family may think they are neglected. I cannot bear to leave Father Miller in so low a state; and I still hope that he will be able to accompany me to the east. He wishes me to go with him this summer, if life, health, and time should continue. I feel that the Lord is with me, and sustains me, body and soul, under the constant labors and trials incident to a lecturer on this subject. You, my dear brother, know what they are; but how blessed to labor and suffer for Christ, in hope of that rest that remains for the people of God, in his glorious Kingdom. I hope that you will write me as soon as possible, giving any advice, which you may think proper. Yours in the blessed hope of our soon meeting the glorious Savior in the clouds of Heaven. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.10
Chester Tilden.
Low Hampton, May 31st, 1843.
Letter from R. T. Hancock
Dear Brother Himes;—I have come to the conclusion that there is no millennium before the coming of Christ, to set up his glorious everlasting kingdom, in the “new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness.” HST June 14, 1843, page 117.11
I have mentioned it in my preaching for seven or eight months past; and the Lord has greatly blessed me in so doing. A number of the people here are looking into the subject for themselves and are praying for light on this momentous subject—but we have plenty of opposition from those in high places. Peter says, 1 Peter 5:12, “Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing had happened to you, but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are made partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy; blessed be the Lord for the prospect of so soon dwelling with my blessed master. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.12
I am resolved to declare what I see, whether the people will hear or forbear, for I must stand or fall for myself. Yours in the bonds of peace. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.13
Dansville, May 25th, 1843. HST June 14, 1843, page 117.14
Letter to a Brother at the West. No. 1
Dear Brother.—I have so frequently addressed you by letter, that if I were within speaking distance, I think that you would be ready to exclaim, Sister, you have written so many scores of letters to me on the Second Advent that I really believe that you yourself do not know the number of them; I think that you had better begin another volume. Well, this I can do on condition that you will allow me to continue the subject, the importance of which I deem an apology for me, for truly it is a subject on which I cannot, nor I dare not keep silent. When I take into consideration that the last sands of time, as I believe, are running out, I feel as if I could not rest without making every possible effort that is in my power to arouse a slumbering brother, who, I fear, is saying in his heart, “My Lord delayeth his coming.” I see no promise that such an event as the Savior’s return shall take place this year, therefore I will give myself no trouble about the time when he shall return, as long as the Bible teaches me, that “of that day and that hour knoweth no man.” Hark, my brother, what means this language of the Savior, “Now learn a parable of the fig-tree, when his branch is yet tender and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh, so likewise ye when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near even at the doors.” Look now, my dear brother at the face of smiling nature, can you doubt for one moment that if time should continue, that summer is near, although you may not have looked in the almanac to see what day and hour it may come, yet I doubt not that you are already making preparations for what you term the coming season. The children of this world are sometimes wiser than the children of light. Again listen, my brother; has not the Midnight Cry gone forth into different portions of the world, “Behold the Bridegroom cometh,” and shall we not attend to it, shall we not trim our lamps, will you not go out to meet him merely because the friends of the Bridegroom may not know the day, the hour of the day, nor the watch of the night wherein he shall come? O be careful, my dear brother, that you do not frame an excuse in time, that will fail you when the final decision shall be made at the judgment day. O then be entreated NOW, if you have not already done it, to make your peace with God, and that you may be found in every sense of the word, watching for the Savior, is the prayer of your affectionate sister. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.1
Dear brother,—say not that I am enthusiastic because I so soon send you another letter; one reason for writing so often, is, my hope is still buoyant that I may win your attention so far at least that you will give the subject of the advent at hand a candid and fair investigation; could I do this, methinks that I should at least in imagination, hear the soft whisper of a much loved brother saying to me, Sister, I have received the different packages of second advent books which you have sent me heretofore, I have looked at them, but now I will read them, I will now give the subject a candid and impartial investigation. O that I could secure your promise to do this, then I would with mingled joy and hope kneel before my heavenly Father and say, I thank thee heavenly Father that thou hast again heard me, leave not this my brother until thou hast sanctified him wholly, enable him to say, “Whereas I was once blind, now I see.” HST June 14, 1843, page 118.2
Believe me, my brother, I have great faith in the efficacy of prayer. Did you not say in one of your affectionate letters to me, “Sister, your letters have again awakened the spark of gratitude to God that was not entirely extinct, but slumbered in my bosom, I will seek religion now.” This resolution was certainly made in answer to prayer. Nor would I be like the nine leprous persons who returned not to give God the glory. I blush not to say that I poured out my soul in thanksgiving to God, who had manifested himself thus, in answer to prayer; I saw that the language of your heart was, “almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” In a moment I wished to echo back the response, HST June 14, 1843, page 118.3
“ALMOST PERSUADED, didst thou say
Why will you longer wait?
Come near to Christ without delay,
Before it be too late.
HST June 14, 1843, page 118.4
Almost persuaded? Why not quite,
Ah why will you delay?
Why grasp the fleeting joys of earth,
The pleasures of a day?
HST June 14, 1843, page 118.5
Come consecrate your life to God,
And join that happy band,
Now marching to celestial joys,
To Canaan’s happy land.”
HST June 14, 1843, page 118.6
I will close by adding to you, my brother, the well known signature. Your affectionate sister, May 24, 1843. A. W. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.7
Dear Brother Himes:—Permit me, although a stranger to you, to address you, on this (of all others,) the most interesting subject. The Second Coming of our Lord and Savior.—Three years since, I had the privilege of reading Father Miller’s Lectures. Since that time I have considered the subject (if true) not only important, but fraught with awful consequences; and ought to be treated as such, by this wicked world. But not having any farther means of instruction, and the “lecturers being condemned by our preacher, of course I did not then become a firm believer in the Advent near. O what an account can our Watchman give, “if it does come?” when thousands of souls shall have perished for the want of “meat in due season.” But for several months past, I have had the pleasure of reading the “Signs of the Times,” in connection with a closer examination of the word of God, and I have become fully convinced that a second Personal Advent of Christ, and that Advent yet future, is taught, in, and proved, and supported by the word of God. And as the seventy weeks carry us down to the crucifixion, over all the disputed ground in the chronology; and as 1810 years more carry us to the end of the 2300 days (or years,) I think we have sufficient ground of evidence that “at the end of the vision, the sanctuary will cleansed,” The Son of man come in the clouds of heaven, raise the righteous dead, change the righteous living: destroy those that destroy the earth,” and reign King of kings and Lord of lords. We had the pleasure, a few weeks since, of hearing a course of lectures delivered in this vicinity by Father Billings; some ten or twelve precious souls were brought from darkness to light, and still rejoice that they ever heard the Midnight Cry. Although sometimes taunted with the oft repeated questions, what will you do if it does not come? When are you going up? etc. Yet while we enjoy a blessed anticipation of that day, we will calmly wait the appointed time, “Though it tarry,” we will “wait for it,” because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Yours in hope of speedy deliverance. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.8
C. Y.
Slatersville, R. I.
Letter from Brother J. B. cook
Dear Brother Himes.—I am making rather slow progress, at least it may appear so to some, yet no time has been lost. We had a blessed time in Philadelphia, praise the Lord, Hallelujah. It is a green spot in the past which it will give me delight to revert to often. Surely I never expect to see and commune with more heavenly beings this side the better world. The good people seemed full of love, full of God, as it is written, “He that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.” My heart burned within me while talking with them and having the Scriptures open. The good spirit seemed to pervade all our conversation and dilate our hearts with delightful anticipations of the glory to be revealed. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name. Amen. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.9
I addressed the congregation in North Market Street Bap. church on Lord’s day morning. On Monday, set off for this place with an overflowing heart, my family sharing in all my emotions of gratitude and praise HST June 14, 1843, page 118.10
The papers you furnished me were all distributed, save some that were overlooked, most were very glad to get them, though very few appeared conscious that their unbelief was not only a token of perdition but a fulfillment of Scripture, “when the Son of man cometh shall he find faith on the earth?’ At one place they talked very wickedly; I told them kindly that I asked nothing of them, wanted nothing but to have them ready for what the Scriptures plainly reveals, so on we came, having a new testimony that we are “not of the world.” The chart was exhibited and explained, prayer followed, and the captain bought the chart. This side the mountain, men seemed to dread me as one who was going to hurt them; but the passengers seeing there was nothing so immediately dangerous in my presence, got to feel quite at home with me. On the whole we had a pleasant passage, some good was done, some Christians whom we met were made glad at heart. We arrived safely at nine o’clock Thursday evening. Friday morning found brother Philips, who seems to be a good man, doing what he can amid many discouragements. Two invitations came for me to lecture. One from the Grand Street Baptist Church, another from the disciples, both were accepted. On Lord’s day, brother Williams asked me into his pulpit, so that three times on Lord’s day, and each day since I came, the good people have heard “the blessed hope.” The interest has been gradually rising. Two requests were last evening presented to have the lectures continued, but from circumstances which I need not name I have determined to proceed to day. A very kind family relative met us here, who urges us to attend him to Bethany, Va., and thence through N. Lisbon to Warren, where the good brethren think that more may be done in circulating books than in Cincinnati; they say that Ohio is overstocked, brother Hinkley is just from that city. As I desire to see my family located, and to comply with the request to visit those unvisited towns, my purpose is to go with my friend. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.11
I have hoped and prayed that the great event predicted, Daniel 8:13, 14, would be witnessed at the termination of the period in strict time, which would bring it at about the close of this week. I look for it with delightful solemnity daily, and nothing but the lapse of time, can, with my present knowledge, erase the conviction that we are on the last year of probation. If it be delayed till the afternoon of the prophetic day, well, but nothing diverts me from daily expectation. Lord forbid that I should join the prevailing cry “My Lord delayeth his coming.” Let me sooner die than incur the doom of the unfaithful servant! As I am on the winds of Providence, you need not wonder that I go in the direction of the strongest current. Affectionately yours. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.12
Pittsburgh, May 30, 1843. HST June 14, 1843, page 118.13
Faith
“By faith,” says the apostle, “Noe being warned of God of things not seen as yet, prepared an ark to the saving of his house, by the which he condemned; the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.” HST June 14, 1843, page 119.1
Faith, you see, was the principle that moved him to the task; and O, what need was there for it when we consider the powerful opposition he had to; encounter and overcome! “The difficulty of procuring a sufficient number of oceans for the purpose of deluging the earth, would immediately occur The seeming impossibility of constructing a vessl within the given dimensions, which should be capable of containing the creatures destined for the preservation of their respective species, together with the various” provisions necessary for their support, would be another formidable objection. The care the labor, the time, and the expense requisite to go through a work of this kind, would afford no very agreeable prospect; and then the circumstance of being shut up in such a place with such company could not but be terrifying. But, above all, it must have been a very severe trial to withstand the incessant scoffs and insults of the antediluvian free thinkers, who, without a doubt, would be frequently assembling to see how the work went on; expressing, perhaps, how very ambitious they were to be present when the lions and tigers should be hunter into the ark, and minutely inquisitive as to the precise method in which it was proposed to navigate the vessel, thus filled, over hills and mountains. In some such manner as this, it is highly probable that modern test and touchstone of all truth, ridicule, was applied to Noah and his undertaking.” 17 But nothing moved the righteous patriarch, “According to all that God commanded him, so did he. Being once well assured, upon sufficient evidence what the will of God was, he suffered no appearances of things or opinions of men to discourage him from accomplishing it. Resting on God’s word am promise, he built the ark, and thus condemned the unbelieving world by the undertaking; inasmuch as being a public testimony of his faith, it will at the last day rise up in judgment against their infidelity and prevent them putting in the plea of ignorance He fearlessly entered into his house of refuge, and amidst the unavailing shrieks of drowning millions sat composedly in its dry cabin until the same hand that shut him in opened the door and led him forth. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.2
In applying my text to the interesting history thus explained, I would first make the many in the days of Noah the subject of a practical address. What a warning lesson does their fate hold out! Still does this globe of ours bear witness to God’s vengeance on them. Above, the hills formed by the subsiding of the waters wherein thousands perished; beneath, the valleys hollowed out by their overwhelming rush; around, the relics of animals involved in the like calamity—are imperishable memorials of Divine retribution, and solemn calls to unrighteous men “reserved,” if so continuing, “unto the day of judgment to be punished.” For, though God’s temporal judgments do not always keep pace with men’s iniquities, this, so far from emboldening us in presumptuous confidence, should lead our minds to the prospect of that awful day when he will assuredly “render to every man according to his works.” However the wrath of heaven may at present seem to slumber, the time is irrevocably determined in the counsels of eternity, which will consign over all the workers of iniquity to their deserved punishment. Compared with the fire that then kindled with the breath of the Lord, like a stream of brimstone, shall burn up the universe, the devastation of the deluge sinks into nothing. “The earth shall be utterly broken down, the earth shall be clean dissolved, the earth shall be moved exceedingly; the earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage, and the transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it, and it shall fall, and not rise again.” The sufferers in this fiery visitation will envy even the victims of he flood of waters; for this only swept away men’ lives from earth, but that will sweep their souls no eternal torment. If then the Almighty knows how to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished,” how necessary is it to live in a spiritual frame of mind, lest the hand of death surprise us while immersed in business or pleasure, even as a thief in the night, so that we find ourselves overwhelmed with irretrievable destruction, while we cry “peace and safety!” Know ye not that your last week, last day, last hour, will soon come upon you unawares, if you be not always watching, and with no less terrible accompaniments and fatal consequences than those of the deluge in the time of Noah? Know ye not that, though “the Lord is slow to anger and of great kindness,” yet his spirit will not always strive with men; and that when they persist in sin, in defiance of his word and the convictions of their own consciences, he will at length totally withdraw from them, and permit them to be hardened to their ruin? Know ye not that every preacher of righteousness, like Noah, slighted, every pious example disregarded, every word of admonition thrown away, will condemn the unbelieving world, and increase their load of judgment? Dare then to be singular, like him. Let his conduct benefit you under the heads of instruction and encouragement, as that of his irreligious contemporaries have, I firmly trust, served by way of warning. “Be blameless, and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom shine ye as lights in the world.”—Extract of a sermon by the Rev. H. A. Herbert, B. A. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.3
Obituary
Died in Lowell on the 22nd May last, Deacon Tilton Clark, aged 38 years. He was a member and an officer of the 2nd Baptist church in this city. The occasion and suddenness of his death were peculiarly afflictive. He had been an agent of the merchandise department of the Boston and Lowell rail road, about 10 years. He left his house on Monday’ morning as usual, for the depot at 7 o’clock; but in consequence of a remarkable and unlooked for accident he was, in about one hour, carried back to his house and family, a mangled body; yet living, and in possession of his senses for the most part he continued about 6 hours, and then tell asleep in Christ. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.4
He was an intelligent, consistent and firm believer in the Advent of Jesus Christ in 1843. He commanded the respect and good feeling, in an unusual degree, of all acquainted with him. Indeed the I whole city gave signs of deep affliction at the departure of so worthy a citizen. As a business man he was correct, prompt and upright. As a Christian and officer in the church, he was faithful to his trust. He left his testimony for Christ at the vestry meeting on Sabbath evening last before his death: and little did we who heard him think that in about 12 hours he would receive the summons of death. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.5
It was found after his death, that he had been in the habit of expressing on paper his devotional feelings. A very large number of sheets are found; some addressed to Christians, some to sinners, Frequent warnings are found written on the back side of business papers belonging to the counting room. A short extract from one of his papers is here given, relating to his views of the Advent. It is headed “Millerism.” After defining and giving the origin of the term, he says, “I am constrained to believe the end is near. If Mr. Miller is in an error, it is possible to prove him so, but not by vulgar and blasphemous witnesses and ribaldry. These are not arguments. That Mr. Miller is a man, mighty in the scriptures, it is folly to deny. He presents the Bible as his authority. He is a calm, dispassionate reasoner; and not a fanatical bigot. Let him be fairly confounded, and I will be satisfied. That has not yet been done: and to treat a subject of such overwhelming majesty and fearful results, a subject which has been made the theme of prophecy in both Testaments, sealed by God’s own unequivocal avowment, with puns and vulgar wit,is not merely to sport with the feelings of those who propagate the truth, but it is to make a jest of God’s solemn! solemn!! solemn!!! day of Judgment! to scoff at Deity himself; and to continue the terrors of the final retribution. That God will give this world warning before the execution of the judgment, I doubt not. That he is now giving it, I doubt not. A cry has gone forth, “Behold the Bridegroom cometh:” and this cry has gone through the length and breadth of the earth. Dying sinner, are you asleep on this subject of your eternal destiny! Jesus waits to be gracious; he now offers you pardon through his blood. O arouse; and by repentance and turning to God seek a refuge from the storms of indignation that are now gathering: that refuge is the Rock of Ages: O seek it now, for even this night thy soul may be required of thee. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.6
Worldly minded professors, God has something against you! Awake; break off the love of this world; confess and turn from your backslidings, and make a full and entire consecration of yourselves and all your powers unto the Lord, and seek that durable riches which cannot fail you. If you do not soon awake, it is fearfully probable you will awake a moment too late! And let all who love our Lord Jesus Christ and his appearing, hold fast: “Blessed is he that waiteth and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days.” HST June 14, 1843, page 119.7
To these last words, penned by our dear brother, God, by his providence has added as he did to Daniel, “Go thy way till the end be for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days.” This extract from the pen of brother Clark, was written on the Sabbath week before his death. It was not intended for any human eye, but merely to give vent to his own pious feelings; and yet its general style, and even punctuation, scarcely needed amendment to prepare it for the press. Though dead, he yet speaketh.—[Communicated.] HST June 14, 1843, page 119.8
Lowell, June 5th 1843. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.9
The Boston Tabernacle.—This building erected by the ‘43 brethren in Boston, is one of the most spacious, convenient, and pleasant houses of worship I was ever in. On entering it I was greatly disappointed. I expected to see a rough, uncouth affair, which would end whether the world did or not, with the exciting cause to which it owes its existance. But not so. I beheld a neat, spacious room, capable of seating over 3000 persons, so constructed as to be easy to speak in, and to be so substantial in its structure as to promise to vie with Marlborough Chapel, (should the world stand,) as a lecture room and house of prayer, for at least one generation. It is indeed a model of neatness, simplicity, comfort and frugality. It cost, exclusive of the land, I am informed, about $4000. Those brethren who are in want of chapels, and have but little money, will do well to visit the tabernacle—learn a good lesson and go home and build on the same plan. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.10
Christian Herald. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.11
Wm. Miller.—What has Mr. Miller done worthy of death or of bonds, or worthy of the violent denunciations heaped upon him? Like the noble Bereans, he has “studied the scriptures daily to see if these things are so” This he has done for many years; and being an intelligent, honest-minded farmer and devoted Christian, he has dared, without having the fear of “learned ministry” before his eyes, to publish the result. “Dost thou, being ignorant teach us,” say they? “Are our learning, our foresight, our faithfulness, all to be brought in question by the researches of one man, and he an unlearned farmer? Are the weak things of the world [thus] to confound the mighty? Forbid it, all our pride and selfishness. Let us all unite in crushing this son of a Nazerine. Away with him, crucify him.” HST June 14, 1843, page 119.12
Boston Post. HST June 14, 1843, page 119.13
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, JUNE 14, 1843.
THE GREAT TENT
ADVENT CONFERENCE AND LECTURES
At Rochester, N. Y. June 23. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.1
A campmeeting will be commenced at Rochester, N. Y. on June 23, 1843, (if time continue). Brn. Charles Fitch, T. F. Barry, and others are expected to be present, and give lectures on the coming of Christ this year HST June 14, 1843, page 120.2
The citizens of Rochester, and people generally in that vicinity, are respectfully invited to attend. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.3
J. V. HIMES.
Boston, June 3, 1843.
Advent Depot at Rochester, N. Y
Will be opened about the 20th of June, where Books on the Advent in 1843 may be obtained, written by Messrs. Miller, Litch, Fitch, Storrs, and others, together with Hymn Books, Papers, Tracts, Charts, etc. All letters, or orders, should be directed (post paid) to J. V. HIMES, Rochester, N. Y. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.4
THE GLAD TIDINGS, OF THE KINGDOM AT HAND
A paper by the above name, will be commenced in the city of Rochester, N. Y. about the 20th of June, 1843. Thirteen weekly numbers will be published (if time continue) for fifty cents. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.5
It will be sent by mail to any part of the country designed. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.6
Seven copies to one address for $3, thirteen copies for $5. J. V. HIMES, Editor and Publisher, HST June 14, 1843, page 120.7
Boston, June 3, 1843. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.8
The natural result.—We learn of two individuals who listened to Dr. Sharp on Sunday, when he denounced the Adventists as scoundrels, that one of them was a professor of religion who had examined the doctrine of the Advent, but was kept back by the confidence he had in the knowledge of the clergy. He however was convinced by the Dr’s sermon that the Dr. was in the wrong. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.9
The other was an impenitent sinner, whose mind was anxious for the condition of his soul. The effect on his mind was to drive off all religious impressions, and restore him to his former carelessness. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.10
This is the effect of preaching against the coming of Christ. Those who love the Lord’s appearing are confirmed in their belief of his coming, and those who hate his appearing are confirmed in their wickedness. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.11
Norfolk, Va.—We copy the following from a letter brother Storrs received on his return from the south. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.12
“You can imagine our disappointment in not hearing the lectures for which we had so long looked, and upon which our hearts were so fixed. Truly we have been grieved and depressed, but our faith fails not. Though you were not allowed to lecture in our town, yet we believe the very opposition, and the very course which was taken to put down the doctrine has spread it far and wide. Much more interest has been manifested since, than before you came; so that beside comforting our hearts, and encouraging us in this good work, we do believe that the doctrine has also spread.” HST June 14, 1843, page 120.13
Brother Luther Cole writes from Montgomery, Vt., that he is strong in the faith of the Advent near. He wishes to say to his friends who live in the western part of New York state, and from whom he has not heard for a long time, that such is his faith; and if they see this, he wishes them to communicate to him their views respecting this “blessed hope. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.14
Campmeeting at Athol
Dear Brother Bliss.—I have just returned from the Athol Campmeeting. Though the weather was unfavorable, yet there was a good attendance, and our meetings were orderly and very interesting. With the exception of a few rowdies—and they did us but little injury—we had as orderly a campmeeting as I ever attended.—On the Sabbath we had a congregation of some 2000, and the most of them very attentive to listen to the truth. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.15
We did not have any meetings on the ground in the evening, except the brethren who stopped on the ground; they had prayer meetings. It was thought by some, if our meetings had been holden in the evening as usual at campmeetings, we might have been broken up by the wicked. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.16
I am of the opinion—all things taken into account—that a great amount of good may be the result of our meetings, if they should be conducted in this manner. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.17
I wish to say to my brethren and sisters who are daily looking for their Savior, and also to an unbelieving world, that though my enemies according to their reports—have had me in the grave—in the prison, etc, etc, yet I am alive, glory to God, and expect to be, to give the Midnight Cry, till Christ shall come, with all the holy angels with him, to call his people home. Yours in the blessed hope. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.18
T. M. Preble.
Nashua, June 7th, 1843.
P. S. My correspondents will be likely to get a wrong impression, as you have noticed, in the last two numbers of the Times, my place of residence as being at Lowell. T. M. P. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.19
CAMPMEETINGS
SECOND ADVENT GROVE MEETING
Providence permitting, will commence at West Boylston, near Beman’s Bridge, 7 miles north of Worcester, on Saturday, June 17th. to continue several days. In behalf of the committee, HST June 14, 1843, page 120.20
W. S. CAMBELL,
HENRY FLAGG.
SECOND ADVENT TENT MEETING
The friends of the cause in the south west part of Wrentham are about to erect a tent on “Jerald’s Hill,” as a place for Second Advent meetings. They propose, if the Lord will, to commence a series of meetings on Sunday, June 25. Per order, HST June 14, 1843, page 120.21
No. Wrentham, June 7. J. S. WHITE. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.22
AN ADVENT CAMPMEETING
Will be held, if time continues, near the line between Cato and Lysander, Cayuga co. New York about one mile west of the Christian Chapel, at Plainville, to commence Saturday, June 24, and continue till July 3. Some of our efficient lectures of the East are earnestly solicited to attend, and ministers and brethren in general. G. W. PEAVEY. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.23
Prentis, N. Y., May 30, 1843. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.24
Letters
from post-masters, to June 10, 1843
Woodstock Vt; S Salem Me 1, 121; Auburn Me; Attica NY $1; S Scituate RI $2; E Bethel Vt $1; Washington DC; Wales Me #1; E Randolph, Ms $1; Lowell, Ms; Stillwater N Y; Lippit, HI; Lincolnville. Me; Good Hope, Ia; Suncook NH f1ag; Grantham; Windsor Vt; Barnstead NH; Corners Vt; Waterford Ms; Frost Village, Canada; Flag Creek, Ia $1; Holden, Ms $2; S Orange, Ms; Stillwater, NY; Lyndon Centre, Vt $l, 19; Lowhampton NY $1. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.25
individuals
Charles Mulford, $5, E B Crandall, J B. Cook, A H Brick, Chs Green, T Cole books sent, W H Alden, Stephen Atwood, S E Lincoln, box of books etc F Thorp, $1, G F Cox, G N Gale, Jno Allen Jr, D H Reed $5, T E Careless $2, J N Sherman $1, C Wheedon $1, H B Skinner, J Read, H Manchester, I H Shipman, Johnson Vt; E Bridges, $1, C J Kee $5, J Litch, M M George, T Smith $2,50, T L Tullock, Luther Call, J S White, J Harsh, $21. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.26
Bundles Sent
C S Brown, Concord NH—H B Skinner, Sudburry Ms—J H Vinal, Scituate, Ms—2 boxes H B Pratt, Pittsburg, Pa—4 do. J V Himes, Rochester NY, care of Mr George A Avery—36 Park Row, N Y—C J Kee, Lewisville S C—T M Preble Nashua, N H—G W Peavey, Syracuse, N Y. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.27
CHEAP LIBRARY
The following Works are printed in the following cheap periodical form, with paper covers, so that they can be sent to any part of the country, or to Europe, by mail. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.28
The following Nos. comprise the Library. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.29
1. Miller’s Life and Views.—37 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.30
2. Lectures on the Second Coming of Christ.—37 1-2cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.31
3. Exposition of 24th of Matt, and Hosea 6:1-3. 18 3-4 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.32
4. Spaulding’s Lectures on the Second Coming of Christ.—37 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.33
5. Litch’s Address to the clergy on the Second Advent.—18 1-4 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.34
6. Miller on the true inheritance of the saints, and the twelve hundred and sixty days of Daniel and John.—12 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.35
7. Fitch’s Letter, on the Advent in 1843.—12 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.36
8. The present Crisis, by Rev. John Hooper, of England—10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.37
9. Miller on the cleansing of the sanctuary.—6 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.38
10. Letter to every body, by an English author; “Behold I come quickly.”—6 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.39
11. Refutation of “Dowling’s Reply to Miller by J. Litch.—15 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.40
2 The “Midnight Cry.” By L.D. Fleming. 12 1-2. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.41
13. Miller’s review of Dimmick’s discourse, “The End not Yet.”—10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.42
14. Miller on the Typical Sabbaths, and great Jubilee.—10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.43
15. The glory of God in the Earth. By C. Fitch.—10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.44
16. A Wonderful and Horrible Thing. By Charles Fitch. 6 1-4 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.45
17. Cox’s Letters on the Second Coming of Christ—18 3-4 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.46
18. The Appearing and Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ. By J. Sabine 12 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.47
19. Prophetic Expositions. By J. Litch. Vol. I. 31 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.48
20, ” ” ” ” ” Vol. II. 37 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.49
21. The Kingdom of God. By Win. Miller. 6 1-4 HST June 14, 1843, page 120.50
22. Miller’s Reply to Stuart. 12 1-2 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.51
23. Millennial Harp, or Second Advent Hymns. Price 121 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.52
24. Israel and the Holy Land,—The Promised Land. By H. D. Ward. Price 10 cts., HST June 14, 1843, page 120.53
25. Inconsistencies of Colver’s ‘Literal Fulfilment of Daniel’s Prophecies,’ shown by S. Bliss. 10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.54
26. Bliss’ Exposition of Matthew 24th. 121 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.55
27. Synopsis of Miller’s Views. 61 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.56
28. Judaism Overthrown. By J. Litch. 10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.57
29. Christ’s First and Second Advent, with Daniel’s Visions Harmonized and Explained. By N. Hervey. 183 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.58
30. New Heavens and New Earth, with the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. By N. Hervey. 121 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.59
31. Starkweather’s Narrative. 10 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.60
32. Brown’s Experience. 121. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.61
33. Bible Examiner, by George Storrs. 183 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.62
34. The Second Advent Doctrine Vindicated,—a sermon preached at the dedication of the Tabernacle, by Rev. S. Hawley, with the Address of the Tabernacle Committee, pp. 107. 20 cts. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.63
35. A Solemn Appeal to Ministers and Churches,—especially to those of the Baptist denomination By J. B. Cook. 10 cts HST June 14, 1843, page 120.64
36. Second Advent Manual, by A. Hale. 183 HST June 14, 1843, page 120.65
This Library will be enlarged from time to time, by the addition of new works. HST June 14, 1843, page 120.66