Signs of the Times and Expositor of Prophecy [Himes], vol. 2
December 15, 1841
VOLUME II.—NO. 18. BOSTON, WHOLE NO. 42
Joshua V. Himes
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
AND EXPOSITOR OF PROPHECY.
SECOND COMING OF CHRIST
From the Carthage (Ohio) Evangelist. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.1
NEW GOVERNMENT AND NEW SOCIETY
PREDICTED BY THE PROPHETS.—NO. VIII. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.2
Behold, I create new heavens and a new earth.—Isaiah 65. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.3
Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! Go ye out to meet him.—Matt. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.4
Being, some years ago, dissatisfied with the modern and popular doctrine of a Millennium, because it seemed to us to interfere with the proper hope of the gospel, namely: the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ from heaven, and the resurrection of the dead, and because it taught professors to look for a triumphant state of Christianity in the present evil world, before the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, we entered with great care upon the consideration of this subject. We made out the following two propositions as summarily comprehending the doctrine of the holy scriptures touching the hope of the gospel, viz: HST December 15, 1841, page 137.5
Prop. 1. That our Lord Jesus Christ will come again to this world; that he will come from heaven, with his angels, in flames of fire, seated on a throne, to a cloud, suddenly, unexpectedly, like lightning, and every eye shall see him. His dead saints shall be raised, and his living ones changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and at the sound of the last trumpet; and both of them shall be caught up together to the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and to be forever with the Lord. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.6
Prop. 2. The scriptures speak of three globes, or rather of one being and to be moulded into three habitable worlds, viz:
1. The Primitive or antideluvian world.
2. The Present secondary world.
3. The New and future world.
HST December 15, 1841, page 137.7
The first was given to Adam, the second to Noah, and the third was promised to Abraham and will be that New Heavens and New Earth to be created at the coming of Christ, and in which will dwell only righteous men. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.8
These two propositions, which are amply demonstrated in the preceding volumes of the Evangelist, contain the true doctrine of the apostles and prophets on the hope of Christians, that is, HST December 15, 1841, page 137.9
1st. We, according to the promise of God, look for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ from heaven with all his saints. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.10
2nd. According to the same promise, we look for a new heaven and a new earth, wherein dwell righteous men. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.11
The Millennium of St. John is identical with the kingdom of Christ in its second or mountain form, as spoken of by Daniel; and both the apostles and prophet represent the Messiah as coming from heaven with all his saints before the kingdom goes into its second and millennial form, and not after it. So that if Christ does not appear at his kingdom, i.e. at the beginning of his kingdom, he is no where represented at all as appearing at the conclusion of it. Again, the coming of Christ precedes the creation of the new heavens and the new earth; the kingdom in its mountain and millennial form is, therefore, identified with the coming of Christ to create the new heavens and the new earth, and give to Abraham and his seed the world of which he was, by the promise of God, made heir. The coming of Christ, the Millennium, the kingdom in its mountain form, and the new heavens and new earth are an assemblage of promises which are to have a co-etaneous fulfilment, that is, they will all be accomplished at the same period of time. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.12
We have already submited to our readers the views of many eminent interpreters of prophecy, from Sir Isaac Newton downward; but amid the conflicting views of interpreters, we feel compelled to cling to the doctrine of the two propositions above stated—that the Lord Jesus Christ will come from heaven and put down the present opposing and incompetent governments, powers and principalities, by destroying them, and creating a new heaven and a new earth for the righteous. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.13
Jacob’s Ladder
The following are the remarkable events, with their dates, which connect the first and second coming of our Lord Jesus:
1. Birth of Christ, A. D.
2. John’s ministry, 26
3. Christ’s ministry, 30
4. Crucifixion, 33
5. Resurrection and ascension, “
6. Descent of the spirit, and beginning of his kingdom, “
7. Conversion of the Gentiles, 37
8. Jerusalem destroyed, 70
9. First at the ten persecutions,
10. Last of the ten persecutions, 312
11. Rome exchanged for Constantinople, 330
HST December 15, 1841, page 137.14
Ten Horns
12. Huns settle in Hungary, 356
13. Ostragoths in Mysia, 377
14. Visigoths in Pauonia, 378
15. Theodosius divides the Empire, [original illegible]
16. The Franks in France, 407
17. The Vandals in Africa, “
18. The Sueves, etc. in Goscoigne “
19. The Burgundians in Burgundy, “
20. The Heruli in Italy, 476
21. Saxons and Angles in England, “
22. Lombards in Lombardia, 483
HST December 15, 1841, page 137.15
3 Horns fall before the 11 th period of settlement, 127
23. The Heruli by the Ostragoths, 493
24. Vandals by Belisosius, 534
25. Ostragoths by Belisosius, 538
HST December 15, 1841, page 137.16
First period of destruction, 55:
26. Pope made Universal Bishop by the Emperor Justinian Const. 538
27. Conversion of the ten Kings, “
28. Church enters the Wilderness, “
29. Mahomet born, 569
30. Date of the Pope’s temporal power, 755
31. Ottoman Empire, 1299
32. End of the Greek Empire, 1449
33. Constantinople destroyed, 1453
34. Luther, 1517
35. Huguenotts murdered, 1562
36. Pope captured, 1798
37. Napoleon, [1st Abdication,] 1814
38. Napoleon, [2nd Abdication.] 1815
39. Ottoman Empire ends, 1839-40
40. Destruction, by Jesus Christ of the ten horns or kingdoms, the Pope Mahomet, and the infidel power of France, also of all idolatry, and all power and authority and rule, and all his enemies, political and religious, with the introduction of his kingdom in its mountain and millennial form, the salvation of all his people, and the creation of the new heavens and the new earth in which only righteous men shall dwell.
HST December 15, 1841, page 137.17
The prophetic word up to the coming of Christ, etc. is now exhausted with the exception of only one event, namely: the return of the Jews. Will this take place, and Jerusalem be rebuilt? Many answer, “Never.” At the destruction by water of the primitive world, Paradise with all things else perished. At the destruction by fire of the present world, will not Jerusalem perish? Is not the Jerusalem which is from above the capital of the Christians? Or have we an abiding city? HST December 15, 1841, page 137.18
The Resurrection
In the 1st Epistle (4:3,) John says, “Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus is come, (eleluthota already come) is not of God, and this is that Spirit of Antichrist,” etc. And in this 2nd Epistle he says, “Many deceivers are entered into the world who confess not that Jesus Christ is come (exhomenon is coming) in the flesh; this is the deceiver and the Antichrist. Second Epistle, 7, v. There is here in the apostle’s language ‘a Change’ says an eminent writer, ‘which should lead us to tremble at the idea of in any way denying a future coming of our Lord to our world in the flesh.’ Most extraordinary! surely, if Christ is coming again to our world in the flesh, the world and the church equally are ignorant of it. Who believes that Christ is coming in the flesh? [original illegible] the reason why he retains the appellation [original illegible] “When the Son of Man shall come in the glory of his Father,” etc. “Then shall they see the Son of Man coming in the clouds,” etc. “The Son of Man coming in his kingdom,” etc. Is it because he is to come again in the flesh that the angels say “This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven?” Acts 1:11. Yes, Christ will come again in the flesh; but as St. Paul says, “All flesh is not the same flesh.” Our present flesh is corruptible, dishonored, weak and natural; but the resurrection flesh, like that of our Lord Jesus Christ, will be incorruptible, glorious, powerful and spiritual: so says Paul, Cor. 15. Still the flesh and blood of Noah’s earth, in which men eat and drink, marry and are given in marriage, cannot inherit the new earth, in which they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like the angels. We shall all be changed, [not annihilated] the animal flesh for the spiritual, the weak for the powerful, the humble for the glorious, and the corruptible for the incorruptible. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.19
We have one instance of flesh in glory, in the transfiguration of the Lord Jesus on the holy mount He had said, six days before it, that some standing with him, meaning Peter, James, and John, should not taste of death till they had seen the Son of man coming in his kingdom, that is till they saw the Son of man as he would appear in his kingdom when he came a second time. He was accordingly transfigured before them. “And his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as light. Moses and Elias, the one changed and the other raised from the dead, appear with him as first fruits of that great harvest which will be reaped when he comes to raise the dead, and change the living of his people. The whole scene is intended, doubtless, to teach us that he will come in the flesh glorified to organize his kingdom, and assemble in one, all the dead and the living who have feared God since the world began. HST December 15, 1841, page 137.20
Peter, at the end of his life, recurring to his glorification of the flesh of Christ, says in his 2nd Epistle, “for we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of his grandeur. For he received of God the Father honor and glory, when there came to him such a voice from the excellent glory, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, hear ye him.” And this voice which came from heaven, we heard when we were with him on the holy mount; so we have the prophecy [touching the grandeur of his future kingdom] made more sure,” etc. The Jews and the apostles were disappointed at the humble appearance which the kingdom put on in its present form; but Peter felt that all the grand sayings of the prophets would be yet realized when Christ came in the flesh glorified, as he saw it on the holy mountain. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.1
2 Peter 1st chapt. At his coming, therefore, the whole earth will be filled with glorified humanity, having a capital called the Beloved City, in Daniel 7th ch. and John, Revelation 19, show that this power or coming of the Lord Jesus is anterior to his kingdom in its everlasting, mountain or millennial form, and not posterior to it. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.2
Seeing the prophetic history up to his coming is now most certainly almost exhausted in any view which we may choose to take of it, may we not with the greatest propriety raise the midnight cry, and shout. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.3
“Behold, the Bridegroom cometh!” HST December 15, 1841, page 138.4
In short, the Lord Jesus is speedily coming in his own proper person, body or flesh from heaven to raise the dead, change the living, reorganize his kingdom, and spread it in all its grandeur around the world. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.5
Brethren, let us go out to meet him; the first appearance of man will be “in the clouds.” Keep your eye from this time forward on the clouds, for you know not what hour the Master cometh. Eternal life, and eternal death hang upon that eventful moment, and he has said to all, “Watch.” W. S. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.6
Communication of Eld. L. D. Fleming, read at the Gen. Con. in New York city, Oct, 27. 1841. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.7
Dear brethren:—In the providence of our heavenly Father, who does all things well, I am permitted to meet with you on this occasion, which to me is faught with deep interest. Were it practicable I should be happy to say much. But, deprived as I am of the power of speech, and having as it were but a few moments to commit my thoughts to writing, I shall on this occasion offer but little. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.8
The theme that has called us together, is one of unutterable interest and importance; and to enter into the merits and spirit of it as its character demands, especially in this fastidious and unbelieving age, requires not a little faith-not a little moral courage—not a little self-sacrificing devotion, and uncompromising zeal. Entertaining the faith we profess, of the very near approach of the Savior,—the Lord from Heaven, it seems to me, that, most emphatically, what we do, we must do quickly. What our hands find to do, we must do with our might. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.9
We are, commanded to stir up each others minds by way of remembrance, and so much the more as you see the day approaching. The might and force of this expectation is accumulating every hour. Yes, more and more as we see the day; approaching. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.10
Brethren, it is most strikingly befitting us to heed this command. And, in assembling on this occasion, and all similar occasions, we are, I apprehend, stirring up each other’s minds, and at the same time giving the midnight cry, “Behold the Bridegroom cometh.” But, it is a lamentable truth, that amid all the Signs both in heaven and earth, the deep slumbers that sit upon the church and the world are too slightly broken. But, does the apathy of a slumbering church, or the infidelity of a mercenary world, lessen in our minds the evidences of the near approach of the Savior to take vengeance on the ungodly, and receive his weary bride home? By no means. Such a state of things is in perfect character with prohecy. God has ever taught by analogy and still continues to teach thus. At the first advent of our Lord, the Jews were governed, in reference to it, by a carnal view of the subject. They were looking for the appearing of an ambitious Prince, who should establish a temporal kingdom, and subject the whole world to them as a nation. In this they were disappointed. Their ambitious and selfish views blinded them to the truth, and incited in them a distaste for the gospel and its glorious promises. They loved their own chimerical notions better than the wisdom and goodness of God, as revealed by the True Messiah. When the Apostles reasoned with them from the Scriptures, to show them that the life, and death, and resurrection of Jesus, were the precise fulfilment of prophecy, they treated the subject with utter contempt. They rejected the council of God [original illegible] themselves. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.11
How is it with the church, as a general thing, at this time? There is a singular analogy between the spirit and expectations of the church at the present time, and the Jews, when Christ first appeared. The Church is now entertaining [original illegible] and ambitious views of a temporal millennium. It is calculating that the Savior will soon make a spiritual appearance through the influence of which, the whole world will be brought into subjection to its reign. But, I ask, does this expection comport with the declarations of scripture on this subject? By the sacred oracles of God we are informed that “the wheat and the tares are to grow together until the harvest.” That it shall be as it was in the days of Lot, of. Noah, of Sodam and Gomorrah, etc. Things will proceed in an ordinary manner, qualified by, until, suddenly, in an unexpected hour “the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven in flaming fire, taking vengence on them who know not God and obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Is it not strange that with all these admonitions standing out in bold relief on the admonitory pages of the New Testament, staring us as it were full in the face at every step, I say with all these, is it not singular professed Christians, the church, can calmly receive the opiate that deepens her slumbers? Oh! what a strange delirium will sit upon her, when the shrill trump of the Arch Angel shall arouse her from her stupor, to realize the awful realities of the truth of the midnight cry. Too many, I fear, will awake, finding their lamps without oil, and be wholly unprepared to enter into the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.12
The coming of Christ in his glorious kingdom, was a theme that consoled the apostles and first churches amid all their tribulations. That the warfare of the church will be ended before the appearing of the Savior, we have no promise. To that event, the primitive christians all looked for the consummation of their hopes and their sufferings. The circumstances as contemplated in a temporal millennium, are wholly inconsistent with a state of discipline and probation. There can be no virtue without conflict—no victory without a struggle—no triumph without an engagement. The promises are made to none but those who fight the fight of faith, and overcome. The Master says, to him that overcometh, will I give to eat of the hidden manna, etc. Revelation 2:17.—He that overcometh and keepeth my words unto the end, and verse 26—He that overcometh shall be clothed in white raiment. “Behold I come quickly” Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God—To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me on my throne, even as I also overcome, and am set down with my Father on his throne. Did Christ live our example? As such then, it was adapted to the wants of his people in the midst of temptation and conflict. Hence that example would be wholly useless and inappropriate to a millennium Church. For these, there could be nothing to overcome, hence we could not be overcomers, so no promise would extend to us. But no, brethren, we are to live in conflict till the Master return. And to him that overcometh will he give a crown of life that will never fade away. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.13
By anticipation we can now adopt the words of God by the prophet Isaiah. Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, for the warfare is (nearly) ended. Yes—behold the Judge standeth at the door. The prayer that has so long been offered up ‘thy kingdom come” will soon be answered. Hence, dear brethren, we [original illegible] have our conversation in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. And when Christ who is our life shall appear we shall also appear with him in glory. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore, comfort one another with these words. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.14
Yes, to those who love his appearing, he will come the Second time without sin unto Salvation. If we are faithful our own eyes shall behold him. We shall see him for ourselves and not another. O, transcendent thought. Shall we see that head that was once crowned with thorns?—Those feet that Mary washed with her tears, and wiped with the hair of her head? Yes beloved, if we are faithful we shall soon see him, for he saith “Behold I come as a thief.” “Behold I come quickly! He which testifieth these things saith, surely I come quickly—Amen.—Even so Come Lord Jesus. HST December 15, 1841, page 138.15
Newark N. J. Oct. 26, 1841.
ONE THING LACKING
“Sell whatsoever thou hast and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven. Christ. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.1
John Wesley is a faithful witness to the Gospel-doctrine of entire consecration of property, as well as of soul and body. Though dead, he yet speaketh. Happy, that the faithful dead can speak, when there are so few living witnesses! From the writings of that man of holy teaching, holy living and abundant labors, and mighty instrumentality in the salvation of men, we make the following quotations. They afford both a testimony to the duty of entire consecration of property, and an explanation of the manner in which it is to be done. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.2
“Must we not rank among those that desire to be rich, all that, in fact, “lay up treasures on earth,” a thing as expressly and clearly forbidden by our Lord as either adultery or murder. By riches I mean not thousands of pounds; but anymore than will procure the conveniences of life. Thus, I account him a rich man who has food and raiment for himself and family, without running into debt, and something over. And how few are there in these circumstances that are not hurt, if not destroyed thereby? Yet, who takes warning? Who seriously regards the awful declaration of the apostle; even, “They that desire to be rich fall into temptation and a share, and into divers foolish and hurtful desires, that plunge men into destruction and perdition!” HST December 15, 1841, page 139.3
“Do you that possess more than food and raiment, ask, “What shall we do? shall we throw into the sea what God hath given us? God forbid that you should. It is an excellent talent: it may be employed much to the glory of God. Your way lies plain before your face: if you have courage, walk in it. Having gained, in a right sense, all you can and saved all you can; then, in spite of nature and custom and worldly prudence, give all you can. I do not say, Be a good Jew; giving a tenth part of all you possess. I do not say. Be a good Pharisee, giving a fifth of all your substance. I dare not advise you to give half of what you have; no, nor three quarters—but ALL. Lift up your hearts, and you will see clearly in what sense this is to be done. If you desire to be a faithful and wise steward, out of that portion of your Lord’s goods which he has for the present lodged in your hands, but with the right of resumption whenever it pleaseth him, 1. Provide things needful for yourself, food to eat, raiment to put on, whatever nature moderately requires for preserving you in both health and strength: 2. Provide these for your wife, your children, or any others who pertain to your household. If, when this is done, there is an overplus left, then do good to “them that are of the household of faith.” If there be an overplus still, “as you have opportunity, do good unto all men.” In so doing, you give all you can, nay, in a sound sense, all you have. For all that is laid out in this manner, is really given to God. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.4
We ask the reader to examine the testimony of Scripture, and learn if the most terrific woes are not denounced against those who lay up earthly treasure and withhold from the needy—and if the richest blessing and eternal happiness, are not promised to those who faithfully distribute to the necessities of their fellowmen, doing good to all, according to their ability and opportunity. And will not men regard the word of the Lord? Let it be remembered that the laying up of earthly riches is practical Atheism and spiritual idolatry. It is the indulgence of a principle which is both wicked in itself and the productive source of most of the sins and sufferings of mankind. Disciple. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.5
REIGN OF THE SAINTS
Messrs Editors:—As there appears to be on the part of many of the advocates of the doctrine of the Advent at hand, as well as of those who hold to a temporal millennium before the Advent, a great misapprehension of the fact, viz: in that there are nations in the flesh on earth over whom the saints after the dashing in pieces of the nations and separation of the righteous from the wicked are to reign; a want of ability to understand this mystery, is one of the greatest causes why many of our watchmen do not acknowledge the Advent near? It is a part of the subject in which I take a great interest, for the reason that I believe that a removal of the veil would open the eyes of many watchmen, and induce them also to proclaim the “midnight cry.” And also it would enable those who do believe in the Advent near, to put on the whole armor of faith, so that none could prevail against them. Indeed, by a hope, I might at least present an argument, which would reach the minds of some of your readers; I shall comment a little upon the 25 chap. of St. Mathew. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.6
Our Savior in this chapter, in the 31 verse says, “When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.7
Now the first question to be asked, and answered in this verse is, who are the holy angels whom our Savior represents, as accompanying him when he shall come in his glory? St. Paul answers this for us: he says, “When Christ, who is our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory,” Colossians 3:4. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.8
Hence it appears that the saints are the angels spoken of in this verse. In further proof of this St. Paul says, in the 6th chap. 1 Cor. 2, 3 verse “Know ye not that the saints shall judge the world,” and in the 5th chap. 1 Timothy 21 verse he calls them the “elect angels.” HST December 15, 1841, page 139.9
Our Savior also in the 19 chap. St. Matthew 28 verse, says “ye that have followed me, in the regeneration (or resurrection) when the Son of man shall sit upon the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” This promise, it will be seen, is at the same period as the one in the text, and that the promise is general to all the saints, we have the testimony of our Savior, in Revelation 3:21 verse; “To him that overcometh, will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame and am set down with my Father in his throne. Also in Revelation 2. chap. 26, 27 verses. “He that overcometh and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations, and he shall rule them with a rod of iron, as the vessels of the potter, shall they be broken in shivers, even as I received of my Father.” St. Paul says, speaking of the crown of glory. “Not to me only, but to all them that love his appearing. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.10
Our Savior still further identifies all the children of the first resurrection, as being as the angels: in St. Mark 12 chap. 25 verse “They neither marry, or are given in marriage, but are as the angels which are in Heaven. The prophet Zach. in the 14 chap. 5 verse says “And the Lord my God shall come and all the saints with him.” Furthermore, Dan. tells us in the 7 chap. 22 verse “Until the ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High.” So also St. John in Rev. speaking upon this point says, in the 20 chap. 4 verse “I beheld thrones, and they sat upon them and judgment was given unto them;” the same as in Dan. The psalmist David also, in the Psalm 122:5 ver. says “For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David;” by the house of David he means the saints, as the reader will see by consulting St. Paul in the 3 chap. Hebrews 6 ver. “as being of the house of the Lord.” HST December 15, 1841, page 139.11
From this mass of testimony we learn, that the saints are what St. Paul says they are, joint heirs with Christ in the kingdom and judgment. In the parable of the tares and wheat, Math. 13 chap. 41 ver; our Savior says “The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them that do iniquity, that the angels here spoken of are the saints, we have the positive assurance of the psalmist David in the 149 Psalm 5 ver. “Let the saints be joyful in glory, let them sing upon their beds, let the high praises of God be in their mouth (Revelation 15:4 ver.) and a two edged sword in their hand, to execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people, to bind their kings with chains, and their nobles, with fetters of iron, to execute upon them the judgment written: this honor have all his saints, Praise ye the Lord.” HST December 15, 1841, page 139.12
According to the psalmist’s testimony, then, the angels who are sent to gather out of the kingdom all things that offend, and them that do iniquity, are the saints. The question being fully settled that the angels spoken of in the 25 chap. of Mat. 31 ver. are the saints; it follows as a matter of course that the nations therein spoken of, as assembled before the judgment seat of Christ, are men in the flesh, and agrees with St. Paul’s testimony in 4 chap. of Tim. 1 ver. that he shall judge the quick (men in the flesh) and the dead at his appearing and kingdom, the quick at his appearing, and the dead at the end, when death is swallowed up in victory to all, as in Revelation 20. chap. 12 verse; “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God,” etc. The argument then is this, that those accounted amongst the righteous, are yet in the flesh, and remain so, being yet subject to natural death, and they live generation succeeding generation under the dominion of Christ and his saints, as in Revelation 20. chap. Satan being bound, so as that he cannot deceive them until the thousand years are finished, he then is loosed, and deceives the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth. The reader need be, on this mode of understanding things, at no loss to judge how the nations came in the four quarters of the earth, they being the descendants of the remnant of the nations that escaped at the beginning of the 1000 years: neither need he be at a loss to account for what the prophet Isa. in the 11th chap. says about the suckling child and the weaned child; nor in the 65th Isa. about the child’s dying at mature age instead of in infancy as now: the cause being revoked, and a covenant being made with the beasts of the earth as in Hosen 2nd chap. 18 verse, “Righteousness covering the earth, as the waters do the sea, all is peace and harmony. “Then comes to pass the saying, in Revelation 14th chap. 13 verse, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, from henceforth, yea, saith the spirit that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.” St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 chap. says that “death is the last enemy that is destroyed;” and Isa. also says the same thing in substance in the 25th chap. 6 to 8th verse, “It is in the government of the Lord, and his saints that death is swallowed up, not out of it.” HST December 15, 1841, page 139.13
By the parable of the tares and wheat, we learn that at the coming of Christ, the wicked are separated from the righteous, and according to the testimony of Isaiah in the 29 chap. after speaking of the blindness of Judah, and the casting of them off, says of the period when all that watch for iniquity are cut off, was at the second Advent. “Is it not yet a very little while, and Lebannon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be esteemed as a forest? And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness. The meek also shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. For the terrible one is brought to nought, and the scorner is consumed, and all that watch for iniquity are cut off: that make a man an offender for a word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and turn aside the just for a thing of naught. Therefore thus saith the Lord, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob, Jacob shall not now be ashamed, neither shall his face wax pale. But when he seeth his children, the work of my hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctify my name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, and shall fear the God of Israel. They also that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine.” This passage, by the fact of the wicked being cut off, is evidently in the kingdom, and our millennist brethren, if they choose to examine and reflect, would see it. It accords with Micah fourth and fifth chapters also with Jeremiah 23 chap. 2nd to 8th verse, as the events therein spoken of did not take place at the first advent, they must at the second, for not one jot or title shall pass from the law or the prophets till all be fulfiled. I shall continue my remarks upon this head, in my next communication, and show further my views of the Kingdom. HST December 15, 1841, page 139.14
A. MYRICK.
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, DEC. 15, 1841.
EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE
Newark, N. J. Nov. 22, 1841.
Dear Brother Himes. As I have a little leisure I will improve it in giving you a little sketch of my course since we parted at Low Hampton. As you know I left that place for Sandy Hill with the expectation of lecturing that evening in the courthouse; but on our arrival we found the courthouse had been previously engaged for a lecture on another subject, and that no appointment had been given out for me. I was invited, however, by Brother Ewer, to attend a Baptist weekly prayer meeting, and improve the time in a lecture upon the second coming of Christ, which was accepted, and lectured to some 25 or 30 persons, I trust, not without fruit.
HST December 15, 1841, page 140.1
The next morning I took stage for Troy, where I spent the Sabbath, and lectured in each of the Methodist congregations, and found quite an interest excited in reference to the subject; but the way did not open for a course of Lectures. Seed however was sown which may yet spring up. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.2
From Troy I came to N. York city, where I had an opportunity for Friday evening in the Methodist church in Seventh st. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.3
I found the interest excited by our late conference in that city still spreading. Several pastors of churches are aroused to an examination of the question, bible classes have taken it up and are discussing it with a great deal of interest, and what is more, they are encouraged in it by their pastors. A Society of gentlemen has also been recently organized in N. Y. for the discussion of moral and religious questions; and the millennium is the first subject introduced; and to the surprise of all, with one single exception, they were all on one side of the question, believing in the personal reign of Christ during the millennium. Multitudes, I learn, who stood aloof during the conference and refused to attend, since they have learned from Bennet’s Herald and the Tribune, the character and interest of the occasion, deeply regret it. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.4
I commenced my course of Lectures in this city a week yesterday. Everything seemed set against us, no church in the city except the Universalist would open their doors for the lectures. At length our respected friend, Mr. Grummernel, who has the control of an unoccupied Baptist church, rather one side of the city, gave us the use of the house as long as we pleased to occupy it for the purpose of lectures. We began Sabbath evening, and although none of the ministers in the city except the free Presbyterian, would give a notice of the meeting, we had a good audience, and a good impression was made. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.5
Meetings were continued each evening through the week, increasing in number and interest each evening. Yesterday (Sabbath) we had service three times, with a good audience all day; but in the evening we were crowded; and what was best of all, the Lord was with us in the majesty of his grace, and a work commenced which we trust and expect will sweep the city. At the close of the services an opportunity was given for any serious persons to rise for prayers; one gentleman above middle age, a lottery dealer, arose and came forward bowed down under the weight of his guilt and backslidings, confessed his sins before God and man, and asked forgiveness and the prayers of Christians. He was followed by others nearly his age. The effect was electrical on the congregation, and we are looking for greater things than these. (This Monday) evening, notwithstanding a heavy rain and the city flooded with mud, we had quite a full house almost entirely of men, and the deepest interest prevails. Scarcely an individual left until our prayer meeting closed, which was considerably past nine o’clock. From these facts you may judge something of the interest which prevails here at present. I have also received an invitation to go to Philadelphia and give a course of lectures. Bro. Wait of this city, I think will soon give himself up to the work of publishing the midnight cry. And “let Zion’s Watchman all awake.” HST December 15, 1841, page 140.6
J. LITCH.
SPALDING’S LECTURES, AND THE CHRIST-JAN WATCHMAN
The Christian Watchman, of Nov. 12, notices the Exposition of 24th of Matthew, by Mr. Miller, and Spaulding’s Lectures, left by us on his table, in a spirit, distressed “to witness the wresting of scripture, to suit it to a theory already formed, which is so apparent throughout both these books.” We sympathize with our Christian brother in his distress, seeing that the plainest commands and promises of our blessed Lord, who is taken up from us into heaven, relative to his absence but “a little while,” and to our watching for the coming of the, Son of man, are perverted, wrested, and emptied of their power, by the Watchman, “the Christian Watchman,” to suit “a theory already formed.” The “disgust and contempt” which our “Christian” brother supposes would arise in the bosom of most readers on perusing the Exposition of 24th of Matthew, had its rise, we hope, in no worse state of things, than the Watchman’s own troubled spirit, under a sense of his inability to maintain, in view of that exposition, certain “wrestings” of his own, in support of the doctrine of a thousand years peace and safety “in the present evil world.” “Such assinine effrontery” is quite excusable under these circumstances, and the conscious foredooming of himself “among the scoffers of these last days,” which the Watchman betrays in his last sentence, is a sign of better things, showing that he is not yet seared in unbelief, beyond the reach of holy truth, though presented by the humble “Chardon-street man.” HST December 15, 1841, page 140.7
The knowing way in which he speaks of Spaulding’s Lectures, betrays the confidence of the Watchman. He says not a word of the learning of Mr. Spaulding, his eminent singleness of heart in the service of his Master,—the great purity of his life, and the high esteem in which he was held by a large circle of friends in Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York; but of the “merited oblivion, from which this [reprint] will prove a vain attempt to rescue” his Lectures, the Watchman is free to speak out of the fullness of the heart. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.8
It is not strange that one should refuse the Lectures of Mr. Spaulding, who has been accustomed to harden himself against the Holy Word, in the matter of “the blessed hope and glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ.” That spiritual pride which rejects the love of his appearing and kingdom who is “the Lord of our righteousness,” is quite excusable for despising the lectures of the Rev. Joshua Spaulding; half a century ago, the honored pastor of the Tabernacle, in Salem, Mass., which lectures are dedicated to all them that look for redemption in the world,” and are a most faithful, lucid, and powerful exhibition of the doctrine of the coming and kingdom of Christ. If it would induce the Watchman to re-examine them, we could add, that men of learning and piety, in this generation, have had their attention first awakened to the hope of the explicit answer to our Lord’s prayer: “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, in earth, as in heaven,” by the perusal of Spaulding’s Lectures; and many hearts, embracing the doctrine, have been greatly refreshed by them. They show, in a clear and satisfactory manner, that the expected Millennium will, according to the scriptures, be in the new heavens and new earth, with the resurrection of the dead in Christ, and the Lord Jesus on the throne of his glory. “Amen: even so come Lord Jesus.” HST December 15, 1841, page 140.9
REIGN OF THE SAINTS
We publish in another column, an article on this subject, which it will be perceived advocates the doctrine of a mortal and immortal state commingled. The idea we gather from it is this: that at the second coming of Christ, he will raise, change, and glorify all his saints, and make them like unto the angels. These glorified saints are to have left, of the heathen world, a race still in the flesh, and unconverted, over whom the saints are to reign as kings, and govern them 1000 years. We confess ourselves utterly unable to understand this theory of the Literalists, as advocated by Bible Reader and our present respected correspondent. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.10
We read Daniel 7:13-14, that when the Son of man comes in the clouds of heaven, there will be given dominion, 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. This is explained verse 18. “But the saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, even forever and ever.” The kingdom here spoken of, our correspondent understands to be the dominion of Christ and his saints 1000 years over men in the flesh. But if it is so, and they cannot reign unless they have subjects over whom to reign, still in the flesh, and mortal, then flesh and mortality must eternally endure to furnish them with subjects, or the dominion will pass away and be destroyed at the consummation, when the wicked will all be destroyed. We hope our correspondent will explain this point definitely before he proceeds further, for he cannot make much progress until he does. HST December 15, 1841, page 140.11
CORRESPONDENCE
LETTER FROM CALVIN FRENCH
Bro. Himes:—Realizing as I do how few the months are in which we can labor for this perishing world, I felt it duty to deny myself the privilege of meeting my beloved brethren in their Conferences at Portland, New York, and Low-Hampton. It is possible that some who met with us in our conferences at Boston and Lowell, will not meet with you to confer any more on the subject, their faith having failed them, they not walking in the light given them, what they had was taken away; but be assured, Brother, it was not my lack of faith or interest in the cause that caused my absence, but my firm belief that we so soon shall meet all the redeemed in the immortal state, that makes me anxious to improve all my time to bring the subject before the people. I spent most of this month in Brooklin and Thompson, Ct. in both of which places I lectured and distributed publications to a large amount. I found many of the people desirous to hear and examine the subject, while some of the clergy refused even to read, others, like the noble Bereans, I believe will search the Scriptures to see if these things are not so. The most common and weighty objection to the particular time now is, what if it does not come then? what will you do? If all those who have asked the above question, will with candor ask themselves another, viz. what shall we do if it does come then? will they ask the first question again, until they have satisfactorily, to their own minds at least, answered the last? Is it unreasonable to suppose that the same species of unbelief prevailed in the days of Noah, and that he was often asked what will you do with your ark if the flood does not come at the time you think it will? We cannot for a moment suppose that [original illegible] and questions of [original illegible] effect, but to confirm his confidence in God’s warning voice, Hebrews 11:7. Let us then who “have also a more sure word of prophecy: whereunto we do well that we take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in our hearts, be stedfast, for at the time appointed the end shall be. Having received a letter from Brother S. Chapman, of Hartford Ct. by permission I make an extract for the “Signs of the Times.” He writes, “Obtaining as we did a suitable place to give our citizens an opportunity through your lectures, to listen to the mid-night cry, has been a source of peculiar comfort and peace to my own mind. The part which I acted in this matter has of course associated my reputation with yours, and having offered no apology or excuse for it, but on the contrary having endeavored to meet the objector with a degree of fairness and stability, and exhorting all, both the wise and unwise to search the Scriptures, and see if these things are not so, I am consequently considered by the public a true convert to your doctrine, or rather branded with the appellation of Millerite, and by means of this I have had access to some sincere inquirers after truth, of whose views and feelings on this subject I should have otherwise; been ignorant; and my prayer is that I may become more and more enlightened, that I may communicate knowledge to others. Br. C. visited some friends in North Stonington Ct. he adds, “while in North Stonington I repeatedly introduced this subject. In conversation with a sister of my departed wife I found that she had anticipated my coming, and being aware of my views, she had prepared herself to meet my arguments on this subject. I arrived there at 12 o’clock on Saturday eve. and retired of course without much delay; in the morning early she could not forbear to Introduce the subject herself; after giving her and other friends present a mere sketch of my views, I gave them opportunity to reply, with the understanding that they should not interrupt me in my closing turn, and without being particular, will only say, I had a free time, and so far answered their objections, that sister W. seemed to fear that my views were correct, and inquired of me, how it was that I should appear so happy with this prospect before me, knowing as I did hat there were millions in the world not yet concerted? I replied that I could not but be happy n the thought of soon meeting my Savior (whom I so ardently loved,) and of being permitted to dwell with him, and that while I lived in this state I should do all in my power to admonish sinners of their danger, and persuade them to be reconciled to God, and consequently be prepared for the coming of their Lord. But if they would continue to harden their hearts through unbelief, my skirts would be clear of their blood, and he wrath of God might as well fall on them, and all others associated with them in unbelief, in the year 1843, as on those who might inhabit the earth and live in unbelief say fifty years hence, should the Lord delay his coming till that period; and besides that, the probability was that should the world stand fifty years longer the number of sinners to be destroyed at that time, would be at least two fold, as our population is so rapidly increasing, and, beside, the Savior had said that at his coming it should be with the people as it was in the days of Noah. The night before I left North Stonington, I spent nth this sister, and in the morning I gave her the parting hand, telling her that I considered it doubtful whether I [original illegible] until 1843, and hoped that we should at that time meet again to part no more; but in about half an hour, to my surprise, she again met me at another sisters in the village, as I was about to leave, she then informed me that she had introduced this subject to their physician, a pious man, (opposed s she had thought to my views,) requesting him to investigate the subject closely, and communicate with her from time to time, and said he was now examining Mr. Miller’s writings on the subject. Well, I said, I am glad to hear that, and what does the Dr. say of Mr. M.? “I dont know, said she, but he will be as much of a Milerite as you are, he says that he is now giving it the second reading, and he dare not say a word against it, and added, if Mr. M. had made no mistake in the starting point, he certainly proves is doctrine in a masterly manner.” and so I [original illegible] our friend then investigating the subject, and hope some good may result. HST December 15, 1841, page 141.1
After speaking of several encouraging circumstances in the city of Hartford, he adds, “When you came to this city, in Aug. last, the inhabitants were as unbelieving in regard to your views, as were the citizens of Sodom to the faithful warning of righteous Lot, but here and there a single individual disposed to listen for a moment to conversation on the subject. But there are now I presume hundreds in this place inquiring in their hearts whether these things are not so, a few have professedly adopted our views as their own, while several, I think I may safely say, are opening their eyes and heart to the subject. HST December 15, 1841, page 141.2
Needham, Oct. 30 1841.
A GOOD EXAMPLE
Dear Bro. Himes: I want to send a shrill echo of the western “Midnight Cry” across the Atlantic ocean, where there are some whom respect, and my Master loves, who are groping their way, as I once did, believing “Fables” because the Pharasees teach them; and at every gleam of “Light,” or sound of “Truth,” and clashing therewith, ask ever and anon “have any of the Pharasees believed?” and consequently are looking too high, in the realms of modern religion—transcendentalism, for the simple truths which the Bible teaches; and they call us poor simpletons, “fools,” “fanatics,” etc. forgetting that as it was in the days of Noah, and Lot, when they appeared as men, that “mocked,” so shall it be in the days of the coming of the son of Man. Therefore, I want you to send 2 copies of the Signs of the Times by each Mail (Cunard line) addressed thus:—England,—and place them to myacc’t. HST December 15, 1841, page 141.3
Hoping that the small sheet may be blessed of God there, as it has been in many cases here, and He have all the glory, is the prayer of your humble Brother in the Hope of the gospel HST December 15, 1841, page 141.4
J. WOLSTENHOLMN.
Providence, Nov. 13, 1841.
A NEW CORRESPONDENT
My Dear Brother:—Your good and acceptable letter of Oct. 23rd came duly to hand, but not in time for me to make a communication during pour session at Low-Hampton, which I should have gladly done, had it been otherwise. Indeed, it would have been gratifying could I have been present on that occasion; I trust the [original illegible] will come, when I shall have an opportunity to be thus favored. The great subject is making its own way [original illegible] wise? Many a holy and good minister of Christ has decreed (not the holier nor the better for such a decree!) that the doctrine of the Second Advent should not be [original illegible] within the sound of his folds: but I perceive that this opposing spirit is giving away: and some weekly papers, a little while since, but against this theme, are opening their pages to communications on this subject. It is done by some I am afraid, to save their credit, or to keep pace with the popular demand. Well, let it be so for a while, they will come to alter their mind, and to better motives in due season. It would have afforded me no small gratification, could I have seen that community of Christians, with whom I am connected, taking the lead in this glorious and heaven approved work. Some of its ministers, however, are awakened by the cry, others have made in their ears, and they are beginning to think seriously of what appears to them a serious matter, to say the least of it. You must know, my brother, that some, not a few, are exceedingly startled at Mr. Miller’s boldness, and confidence in 1843, as the era of Christ’s personal appearing; for myself I am somewhat in fear lest he should have asserted too much, and that with too much assurance! HST December 15, 1841, page 141.5
I am pretty well satisfied that the 2300 days (years) will be fulfilled, on or about that year; but whether the “Sanctuary being cleansed” at that time includes Christ’s Second advent, is not so clear to me: and then I am a believer in the calling, and gathering, and return of the whole house of Israel, before or about the second coming. Now, there does not seem to me to be time enough for such a work to be accomplished by that year. Observe, Mr. E, I am not controverting, I will have no dispute with any man on this sweet and delightful subject. If I am permitted to write for your columns, it will be with a view to state my opinions positively, not to negative the opinions of others, and therefore I am prepared for no litigation in this matter. There may be, nay, there must be a diversity of opinion or the circumstantials surrounding this vast subject; but great uniformity will prevail on the main question viz: will Christ come in person? and may he be expected shortly?—I perceive that there is a spirit of bitterness prevailing among some of the watchmen, they almost loose their temper, and call bad names; I am sorry for it, and the more especially when I consider the quarter in which this appears. Well, Mr. E. do you not return railing for railing, no, nor one bad word for another. “The servant of the Lord must not strive” etc. 2 Timothy 2:24, 25, 26. You will be at liberty to insert this brief letter, if you think right so to do; and as the season is becoming more friendly to home and fire-side privileges, I shall count it a privilege to offer you a few thoughts on this subject direct, with a few others also not remotely connected. HST December 15, 1841, page 141.6
JACO. BAS. ENI.
Nov. 7, 1841.
LETTER FROM MOSES CHENEY
Mr. Editor:—Until of late I have been ignorant of your paper. One of your numbers fell into my hands a few days since, which I looked over with a good degree of satisfaction. I have been an old preacher in the Baptist connection, for more than thirty-five years past. In this whole time, my prayer has been “Thy kingdom come.” And I hope my preaching has corresponded with my prayers; “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” HST December 15, 1841, page 142.1
But, sir, I was not brought up at the feet of Gamaliel; I come up in the wilderness of New Hampshire. I commenced preaching before I could read the Bible intelligibly, or pass a sentence of it grammatically; nor do I pretend to any thing better at this time of my life, only what little I may have gained, with very limited advantages. And if I have made any improvement, experience has done it. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.2
But I have adhered to the Bible. In that book I learned that the burden of the inspired prophets was, to proclaim the coming of the just one: the Lord Jesus Christ. And, in addition to that, to call on all people to prepare for his coming. And, in that same Bible, in that part called the New Testament, I find the burden of the evangelist was to back up the prophets, and to declare that Jesus Christ has come, and that he came into the world just as the prophets said he would come. Isaiah said, “Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son.”—See chap. 7:14. And Matthew said, The virgin Mary did conceive of the Holy Ghost, and did bring forth the Son of God; and Luke tells the same thing. The four evangelists, in joint union, tell us how he grew up—lived—was baptized—preached healed the sick—raided the dead—cast out devils—suffered, and died—was buried, and rose again; and how he appeared to them after his resurrection, and sent his disciples into all the world, to publish all things whatsoever he commanded them. Then, how he ascended up into heaven, and what, his office is now in that holy place. And that he will come again without sin unto salvation, to glorify his people. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.3
These holy apostles, also, not unlike the holy prophets, before his first advent, cry unto us to be ready for his second advent. About eighteen hundred years ago, they made use of the most stirring language, to wake all up to the overwhelming, subject of the coming again of the Lord Jesus. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.4
And, Mr. Editor, notwithstanding all that the, prophets have said, and all that Jesus Christ himself has said, and all that the holy apostles have said, yet, even among ministers of the gospel, there still remains a striking diversity of opinion on the subject. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.5
For one, I have long thought on this subject, and not without the deepest anxiety. When I was young, much was said about a “millennium.” But, when I come to read the Bible for myself, I was disappointed; I could not even find the word, then, much less the subject. I found, however, by close reading, that Jesus Christ has left promises that he should, and would come again; and that all the apostles did rejoice in the belief, that he would do just as he engaged to do. This fixed a belief in my mind, that Christ would come again into this world; but will he come mystically, or personally? This was the question. To decide this problem, I only had to consider how he first came into the world, was it personal, or mystical? I found he was a real, personal child. And was called, “the young child,” nine times in the second chapter of Matthew. I found he grew up like other people. That he did eat and drink—sleep and wake—rejoice and mourn—walk and set still—talk and hold his peace—ride and go on foot; and all this was done personally. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.6
In a word, He was personally born; He personally grew up; He personally preached; He personally died; He personally laid in the grave three days; He personally rose from the grave; He personally appeared to his disciples forty days; He then, personally, in plain sight of men and angels, went up into heaven; and there he is now, as real a person as he ever was, with the exception of blood. And He is in personal company there. Enoch is personally there. Elijah is personally there, and I expect Moses is there, likewise; and also all the saints that rose from their graves after his resurrection. So I learn there are holy bodies in heaven, as well as holy spirits. I hope I am not writing light words about my Holy Savior, for with me he is all and in all, God blessed forever. Nor do I think that in calling him Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace, any more alters his personality, than it alters my personality, to call me a saint. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.7
Now, then, if Christ is a person, and if he again comes into this world, it must be personally. And if he shall reign again on this earth according to the scripture, then it will be a personal reign. And if the saints shall-reign with him, in person, also, as sayeth the scriptures; and if the coming of the Lord draweth nigh, as sayeth the scriptures—then ye saints of the Most High God, it is time, and high time to awake and trim your lamps: for, “Behold the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him.” HST December 15, 1841, page 142.8
For one, I wish all men to know that my full and fixed belief on this subject is, that Christ Jesus, the Lord, will come again the second time, on this earth, and will chain satan, and shut him up—will change his living saints to immortality in a moment, and will at the same time raise his dead saints, and reign with them one thousand years. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.9
In this belief, I call no man Father. I have not learned it of men. I have had one short, though agreeable interview with Brother William Miller; have examined his book, and am happy to say, that in the main, there is an agreeable union betwixt his book and my own manuscript, which I now have on hand, and was written years before I had heard of the man. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.10
If I recollect right, as to the main difference between us on this great concern, it is in the fire that will burn up the wicked, at the beginning of the reign of Christ. Whereas, I find no such fire at that time. But at the end of the thousand years, I find a fire, that will burn up all earthly things. In this thing, I suppose, we must be two, until I can get my eyes open, to see as he does. The great thing for us all is, to be right; just right. This, I think, is the desire of every good man. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.11
As it respects Bro. Miller’s date of A. D. 1843, I have no more to say than this: let that thing be to himself. I say thus much, because I have no definite knowledge on that part of the subject. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.12
And, now, Mr. Editor, I pray God that I may be delivered from two things. The first is, from pressing any scripture to my use which was not intended for the place. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.13
And the second is, that I may be delivered from ridicule. I mean, of being set forth, by others, who may not see as I do, in a ridiculous way and manner. If I am not much mistaken, there is in almost all controversies, too much of the spirit of trying to render one another mean, ignorant, and contemptible. If any of us who write are weak, help us by strengthening; if any are ignorant, help them by enlightning their eyes; not by beating them out. For, how can any one, with a bad spirit, give good proof that he believes that the coming of the Lord draweth nigh? HST December 15, 1841, page 142.14
And, now, dear sir, if you think that such communications as this will do any good in the world, you will please give this a place in your paper, and thereby much oblige your friend and brother in the kingdom of our Lord and Savior. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.15
MOSES CHENEY.
Derby, Vt. Oct. 21, 1841.
THE LATE CONFERENCE AT THE BROADWAY TABERNACLE
A Convention was held in the Tabernacle on the 27th of October, in reference to the Second Coming of our Savior. The object of the Conference is understood to have been to awaken the attention of the Christian public to the hopes, which the Gospel everywhere holds out to believers, that the coming of the Lord draws near. The need of such a public meeting was urged in view of the fact that the hope of a temporal Millennium in the church, has usurped the place of the primitive faith and hope; and in this day believers have come to say openly, “My Lord delayeth his coming” which is a sign of an evil servant, so much as in his heart to say. For the preparation of the public mind, public exercises were held in the Vestry of the Tabernacle on the 26th, and in the morning and afternoon of the 27th. On the evening of the 27th, a large audience assembled. The Rev. John Lindsey, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, a well known and highly esteemed pastor in this city, took the chair, and announced the sentiment to be presented by the speakers in the following words:—“The Kingdom of Heaven preached in the Gospel is a future dispensation near to come.” Rev. Josiah Litch, of the New England Conference, illustrated the sentiment pronounced by the Chairman, with particular aim to show the nature of the kingdom preached in the Gospel; that it is not the Gospel dispensation itself, nor is it the church in this world, nor is it the state of things ever to be in this world; but it is the glory in which our Savior manifested himself to Peter, James, and John, in the moments of transfiguration, even His excellent majesty displayed overall the new heavens and earth, in the resurrection of the dead. He was followed by Henry Dana Ward, of this city, who illustrated the sentiment presented by the Chairman to the meeting by particularly considering that it is a future dispensation: as the Gospel was future in respect to the Mosaic dispensation, so the kingdom is future in respect to the Gospel dispensation, and is not concurrent with it: but is “the dispensation of the fulness, of time,” and of the restitution of all things, in the restoration of Israel, and in the resurrection of the dead; the same for which believers daily pray: “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven;” and which prayer it may be credited the Almighty will hear and fully answer in his own appointed time. HST December 15, 1841, page 142.16
Elder Joshua V. Himes, of the Chardon-street Chapel, Boston, concluded the exercises of the evening by considering the sentiment presented by the Chairman in respect to the nearness of the kingdom to come, and in a very eloquent and emphatic manner presented his own opinion, that the coming is nearer than is usually believed. The times of Daniel, the Prophet, limit a period of 2300 days, which are taken by Christians for so many years; and those expire in 1843. The period of Antichrist is accounted to be 1260 years, and that is thought to have commenced in the reign of Justinian, and to have expired in the overthrow of the Pope by Buonaparte. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.1
The meeting was profoundly attentive, and the remarks of the speakers were received with unequivocal approbation, save only the fixing a time, [original illegible] the earnest and power [original illegible] eloquence of Mr. Himes, failed to convince and satisfy the audience. But as far as the awakening of public attention goes, the Convention has been attended with the happiest results. The pastors of churches, direct their studies toward the interesting theme, in many cases with new emotions; and many Christians read the Bible, with an inquiring mind, to learn whether these things are so; and some are becoming daily more and more convinced of the truth, and importance of the sentiment expressed by the Chairman, and made the theme of the evening’s discourses.—New York Tribune. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.2
LETTER FROM ELD. W.B. CURTIS TO WM. MILLER
REVIVAL IN GALWAY, N. Y. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.3
Dear bro. miller:—Agreeable to my engagement, I sit down to give you some information in relation to the progress of the good work of the Lord in Galway. I have been with them as much of the time as my other engagements would allow; and I am happy to inform you, that the glorious work is still in progress: for about three weeks after you left, thus, continued meetings every evening at the Meeting house. Scores of anxious sinners came forward every night for prayers, and every day added to the number of joyful converts. It is not definitely known how many have embraced the hope of the Gospel, but those best informed on the subject, judge, there are between fifty and sixty new born souls. Methinks I hear you exclaim, “Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me praise his holy name.” It is a matter of joy, also, that they all seem to be strong in the Lord, and willing to tell the people what the Lord has done for them: It is quite common to hear after sermon, fifteen or twenty, tell with great joy, what the Lord has done for their souls. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.4
The 2nd or 3rd week after you left, the church called Bro. Parmalee to ordination; the services were all conducted under the influences of the revival, and with strict reference to its promotion. Many of the delegates, said they never attended an ordination so pleasant. After the services were over, Bro. Fletcher, and the newly ordained pastor, baptised eight willing converts. Last Lord’s day, Bro. Parmalee baptised twenty-five more, and received two from the Methodist on experience, making thirty-five, that received the hand of fellowship at once; several more have told their, experience to the church; and stand as candidates for baptism. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.5
It is deeply to be regreted, that the work does not generally extend into all the churches, and societies in town: but that cannot be expected, when so much prejudice and acrimony prevails. The Presbyterians and Methodists have put on their armor, not the Gospel armor, but a sectarian armor; and that armor is not mighty, to pull down the strong holds of Satan. Oh, when will Christians know nothing but Jesus Christ, and him crucified, and love one another as children of one common parent. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.6
At our last Covenant Meeting, I laid the subject of your coming here, about the first of Jan. before the church, and an invitation was voted by the church, for you to come, so that I hope you will meet with no opposition; and I am quite sure you will not from the Baptist church. I intend to give a general invitation to the other societies in town, to come in and hear your lectures, and I think you will have a full house throughout your whole course; the house will hold eight or nine hundred. Oh come then, and may the Lord come with you, and pour us out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.7
I remain yours in the bonds of the Gospel,
W. B. CURTIS.
Broadalbin, Nov. 16th, 1841.
HST December 15, 1841, page 143.8
EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM J. ANDREWS
Revival in Claremont, N. H. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.9
Dear Brother Miller: The Lord is with us in very deed. Three weeks ago, if any one had predicted such a state of things, as we now have, he would have been accounted insane. Then all was coldness and indifference. Now, all the town is aroused to the subject of religion. The Baptist, Methodist, and Congregational societies, are all united in this work. Some are converted, and from 60 to 75 are anxiously seeking the Lord. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.10
Dear Brother, we are anxious that you should visit us again. You can have your choice of four chapels in this town. Do come again, if possible, and visit us. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.11
THE DOCTRINE OF THE SECOND ADVENT
There are many objections brought against this doctrine, which, at first thought, seem reasonable and even scriptural, especially in regard to the times and seasons—some say that the scriptures affirm “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, wherein the Son of man cometh;” and therefore we ought to say nothing about the time. We believe that no man knoweth neither the day nor the hour, but that does not disturb the belief that the time is revealed, so that we may know when it is nigh even at the door; and we believe that the year is revealed, and that it is for man to know about the time these things shall take place, and this belief is founded upon the word of God; for, “as it was in the days of Noah, so also shall it be when the Son of man cometh;” I ask, was Noah ignorant of the time that God would send the flood upon the earth?—No: we are informed that he proclaimed it to the people, more than a hundred years previous to the time, and when the time was far spent, and the years nearly fulfilled, God revealed the day to Noah, saying, “yet seven, days and I will cause it to rain on the earth.”—Again, the inspired writer says, “Ye brethren, ye are not in darkness that this day should come upon you as a thief, for ye are children of the day, ye walk in light,” etc. And again he says, “The wicked shall not understand, but the wise or the righteous shall understand.” And I ask, did God ever leave his people in the dark with regard to the time when his judgment should be poured upon the earth? How was it in the days of Lot—were the people without warning?—Lot declared that God would destroy their cities with fire from Heaven, unless they repented of their works.” Again—how was it when God threatened to lay Nineveh in waste—there was a cry made in the streets and public places, yet forty days and Nineveh shall be destroyed.” And again, in the times of Jerusalem how was it—did God leave the people in ignorance of the time of its destruction? We are told that her streets rung with the voice of one crying, Wo—wo unto Jerusalem;” and a dense cloud hung over the city, as though the vengeance of God threatened them; this awful calamity was prophesied of for years before it took place, and many signs were given so that the inhabitants might know, when it was near, and so it will be when “the Son of man cometh,” the warning will be given, [original illegible] right [original illegible]” will be sounded throughout the earth, “Behold the bridegroom cometh.” God will not deceive his people: he never has, he never will. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.12
Another objection often brought up by the objector is, “that the carnal Jews are to return to the land of Palestine, rebuild Jerusalem, and again be distinguished as an independent nation.” To destroy this erroneous idea, I will first quote the language of the prophet, where he says, “Jerusalem shall be trodden down by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.” And now I ask what is meant by the “Times of the Gentiles?” If it means anything, it means the last time; there are no other times referred to for the Prophet goes on and says, “and then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.” But what is meant by the “sanctuary,” asks the objector—I reply, it is the church of God,—the church will then be cleansed. “But how will it be cleansed?” All wickedness shall be destroyed “by the brightness of his coming”—then I say the “Gentile time,” are the “last times,” and Jerusalem shall be laid waste, until these “times” be fulfilled—Jerusalem will not be rebuilt—God declared that the Jewish race should be scattered abroad into all the nations, “he will know them no more as a people”—they will never return to the land of Palestine. HST December 15, 1841, page 143.13
A third objection is, “that the church is to enjoy a millennium (a thousand years) of peace and prosperity previous to the “Second Advent” of “Christ—all the world are to be converted, etc.” This is an idea very prevalent in the church at the present day; but a few words will show that this doctrine is not substantiated by the scriptures of divine truth, and a few quotations will overthrow it. First, St. Mathew says “the tares and the wheat shall grow together, until the harvest,” and he says, to explain the parable, that “the tares and the wheat are the wicked and the righteous, and the harvest is the end of the world.” The wicked and righteous shall live together, until the end of the world,—and that passage is sufficient to satisfy a believer in the Bible, that the doctrine is entirely without foundation, but there are numerous paralell passages, I will repeat some. “Wicked men and seducers shall wax worse and worse.” Mathew in his 24 chapter says that “because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold:” again he says that “there shall be great tribulation such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be,” and many others might be named, showing that we are to look for no time when all wickedness shall be done away, previous to the revelation of Jesus Christ, who shall destroy “the wicked” “by the brightness of his coming.” HST December 15, 1841, page 143.14
L. S*******
Portland, Oct. 29, 1841.
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
BOSTON, DEC. 15, 1841.
Boston Conference.—The session of the Conference held in this city, has just closed; the meetings were very fully attended, and were of the most thrilling, and interesting character. As our paper goes to press very early, we are unable to give the proceedings; and in the midst of present cares, we are able only to give this brief notice. A full account in our next. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.1
The General Conference, in Dover, N. H. will commence on the 14th day of December, at 10 o’clock [original illegible] St. Baptist Church. Bro. Wm. Miller, Charles Fitch, and others, will be present, and address the meeting. Bro. Fitch, will give his views, and the reasons for embracing the doctrine of the Second Advent. Mr. Miller, will give a course of lectures evenings, to commence the Saturday Evening proceeding the Conference, and continue during the session. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.2
Rev. Ethan Smith, is lecturing in New York, in opposition to the views of Mr. Miller, and others on the Second Advent. He is also writing in the N. Y. Evangelist, what he calls a review of the late Conference on the advent near, held at the Tabernacle. His lectures, and his review, we believe, will be of essential service to the spread, and prosperity, of the doctrine of the Advent nigh. Our friends in New York, will find an antidote if needed, for Mr. Smith’s poison, at 126 Fulton St. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.3
Bro. Charles Fitch.—This dear brother has come into the full faith of the Second Advent, both as to the manner, and the time. As his views are to be published in a few days, we forbear to say more at this time. It will be published in a pamphlet, and will be for sale about the 10th of the present month, at this office. Friends will send in their orders without delay. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.4
Mr. Miller, is now (Dec. 4th,) lecturing at Boylston Hall, in this city, to listening crowds. The Lord has given us the victory. A large number are under deep conviction, and several have professed hope. The lectures will continue every Evening, till the 9th inst. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.5
Bro. Litch.—It will be seen is still in Newark, N. J. The Lord’s blessing attends his efforts in a wonderful manner. Brethren, pray that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.6
New Work.—A new work by Mr. Miller, on Matthew 5:5. “The true inheritance of the saints;” and the 1260 days in Daniel and John explained. It will be but in a few weeks. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.7
Important Works
ON THE PROPHECIES OF THE SECOND ADVENT OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.8
For sale at No. 14 Devonshire-street, (up stairs.) HST December 15, 1841, page 144.9
Miller on the Second Coming of Christ.—In one volume. This work contains nineteen Lectures; to which is added, a Supplement, containing a Chronological Chart of the prophetic periods, with in explanation. Price 50 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.10
Miller’s Life and Views.—In one volume. This work contains a sketch of Mr. Miller’s life, his chronology, the chart and exposition, eleven new lectures, reviews, letters,—with a likeness. Price 50 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.11
Bible Student’s Manual.—This is a little work compiled from Mr. Miller’s works, designed for a pocket note book and manual. It contains the chart, rules of interpretation, etc. with 32 pages of blank paper, for notes, etc. Price 25 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.12
Signs of the Times, Vol. I.—This work is neatly bound, with a likeness of Mr. Miller. It contains a history of the rise and progress of the doctrine of the Advent near in the United States, and in other parts of the world. It is a very important work for all interested in this cause. Price $1,50. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.13
An Address to the Public, and especially the clergy, on the near approach of the glorious, everlasting kingdom of God on earth. Price 25 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.14
No. 1 Second Advent Report of General Conference, held in Boston, Oct. 14th, 15th, 1840. This is a very able and important document, it contains two discourses from Mr. Litch on the Second Advent—Chronology of Prophecy. One from Rev. Henry Jones, on the Restoration of Israel. Two from Mr. Miller on Chronology of he Prophetic Periods—Judgment. One Discourse, in three parts, by H. D. Ward, on the Millennium. 174 pages. Price 37 cents, in boards, 25 cents in pamphlets. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.15
No. 2 Second Advent Report of General Conference, held in Lowell, June 15th, 16th, 17th, 1841. This is a very able and important document, it contains the proceedings of the conference, circular address, dissertation on Christ’s second coming, Signs of Christ’s second coming, quickly, by Rev. Henry Jones. The kingdom of God on earth at hand; the fall of the Ottoman Empire, and dissertation on the Millennium, by Rev. Josiah Litch. Price $20 per hundred, and 25 cents single. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.16
Scriptures Searched.—By Henry Jones. This is truly an evangelical work; and will be read with profit. Price 50 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.17
Miller’s Works.—In one volume. New edition. $1,00. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.18
Thoughts on the Second Coming of Christ. Just published. An Irish work, first published in Dublin, in 1831, Price 12 1-2 cents, $8 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.19
View of a Literal Interpretation of the Prophecies. By a Bible student, Boston. Price 25 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.20
English Works
Essays on the Millenium.—By Rev. Henry Woodward, A. M. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.21
An Apology for the Millenial Doctrine.-By Wm. Anderson. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.22
A Millenarian’s Answer.—By John Cox. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.23
Pre-millennial Advent of the Messiah.—By Wm. Cunningham. In one volume. Price 62 1.2 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.24
Thoughts on the Scriptural Expectations of the Church.—By Bassilicus. Price 50 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.25
Political Destiny of the Earth.—By Wm. Cunningham, Esq. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.26
Sermons on the Second Advent. By Rev. Hugh McNeile, A. M. Price 50 cts. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.27
Prospects of the Jews.—By Rev. Hugh McNeile. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.28
The Time to Favor Zion.—By Rev. E. Bickersteth. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.29
Future Destiny of Israel.—By a Clergyman. 1 vol. Price 62 1-2 cts. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.30
A Brief Inquiry into the Prospects of the Church of Christ.—By Hon. Gerrard T. Nole, A. M. Price 50 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.31
Essays on the Advent and Kingdom of Christ.—By Rev. J. W. Brooks. In 1 vol. Price 50 cents. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.32
Second Advent Libraries.—Consisting of all the works to be had on the subject of the second coming of Christ. This library is designed for Second Advent Associations, and Bible Classes. Price from $3 up to $10. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.33
Second Advent Tracts
The following tracts are taken from the first and second Reports of the General Conference. The only difference is in the new form in which they are put, for a more general circulation. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.34
No. I. Proceedings of the Conference, on the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, held in Boston, Mass. October 14th, 15th, 1841. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.35
No. II. A Dissertation on the Second Advent. By Josiah Litch. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.36
No. III. A Dissertation on the Chronology of Prophecy.—By Josiah Litch. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.37
No. IV. Dissertation on the Restoration of Israel. By Henry Jones, of New York City. Price $3 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.38
No. V. A Dissertation on Prophetic Chronology. By William Miller. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.39
No. VI A Dissertation on the Judgment. By William Miller. Price $2,00 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.40
No. VII. History and Doctrine of the Millennium. A discourse delivered in the conference on the Second Advent near, at Boston, Mass. Oct. 14, 1840. Price 6 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.41
No. VIII. Proceedings of the second session of the General Conference of Christians, expecting the Advent of our Lord Jesus Christ, held in Lowell. Mass. June 15, 16, 17, 1841. Price $2 per hundred, HST December 15, 1841, page 144.42
No. IX. Dissertation on the nature and manner if Christ’s second coming; together with the events attending and preceding it. By Henry Jones, of New York, before the 2nd General Conference on he Advent, at Lowell, Mass. June 15, 16, 17, 1841. Price $4 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.43
No. X. Dissertation on the glorified kingdom of God on earth at hand. By Josiah Litch, delivered at Lowell, Mass. June 15, 16, 17, 1841. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.44
No. XI. Dissertation on the fall of the Ottoman man Empire, the 11th of August, 1840. By Josiah Litch. Delivered before the 2nd General Conference on the Advent, at Lowell, Mass. June, 15, 16, 17, 1841. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.45
No. XII. The Doctrine of the Millennium. The order of the resurrection and order of the judgment, By Josiah Litch. Price $2 per hundred. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.46
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
Is published on the 1st and 15th of each month at No. 14 Devonshire Street. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.47
Joshua V. Himes, & Josiah Litch, Editors. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.48
Terms.—One Dollar a year, payable in advance, Six copies for Five Dollars, Thirteen copies for Ten Dollars. All communications should be directed to “J. V. HIMES, Boston, Mass.” post paid. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.49
Dow & Jackson, Printers, 14 Devonshire Street. HST December 15, 1841, page 144.50