General Conference Bulletin, vol. 4

THE CLOSE OF THE CONFERENCE

To sketch the inner history of the Conference just closed, would require the skilled pen of heavenly inspiration. Even that which has been apparent to beholders, has challenged their admiration to the verge of incredulity. From rumors that thickly flew across the horizon of every part of the field, a few weeks ago, hardly a delegate appeared at this session who did not anticipate worry, and even disaster more or less serious. Various theories were afloat, which most, if not all, had previously canvassed, and decided their merits or demerits. Whispers of disintegration were borne from ear to ear, and speculation as to the final result were rife. GCB April 25, 1901, page 457.6

In view of this condition of things, the Conference opened with some apprehension. The delegates sat in their seats with bated breath of expectation, watching for the first omens of indication to point out the trend of affairs. No real business was done for the first few days, but every sitting was one of meditation and devotion. Earnest prayer was offered for divine guidance, and soon light dawned. As the Lord revealed his will, the united demand was for a complete reorganization of the work on a more equitable basis. Defects were discovered in the old plan, which separated between the medical and evangelical branches of the great message of truth for the last days. So serious, indeed, were these defects that they threatened the very life of the organization. There seemed no other way, but to reconstruct the organic powers of the body so that the two great branches of the same work might naturally intertwine, and become one, to all intents and purposes. GCB April 25, 1901, page 457.7

As the effort toward reorganization progressed, the walls of prejudice and critical judgment, which had become insurmountable barriers to success, began to crumble, and in due time were leveled. As the opportunity was thus presented for each cabal to look beyond the narrow limits of its own imagination, there was revealed such a different condition of things that each seemed to wonder why he had so long permitted his view to be thus obscured. The printed business proceedings show the result, in the combination of medical and non-medical members of the various boards. GCB April 25, 1901, page 457.8

The hidden forces which wrought this victory, did it by operating upon individual minds. As the Lord’s word came solemnly from the lips of his aged and tried servant, hearts were softened, tears stole silently down faces unaccustomed to such tender emotions, and words came forth in a most subdued way. GCB April 25, 1901, page 457.9

Take it altogether, this has been one of the most peculiar, yet the very best, General Conference ever convened by Seventh-day Adventists. There has been no particular outward demonstration of joy, but a quiet, deep-seated calm has apparently attended everyone, producing an expression of the sweetest peace. All differences of sentiment, which had been the cause of more or less alienation, were buried under the gentle droppings of the Holy Spirit, accompanying the words of instruction from the servants of the Lord. From the first of the business meetings, not one unkind word was spoken on the floor, not a single rebutting argument was used. But all seemed to vie with one another in maintaining the rules of courtesy and Christian deportment. GCB April 25, 1901, page 457.10

The immense gatherings in the early morning meetings were seasons of spiritual feasting. Those who were privileged to attend them, will not soon forget their holy calm. There solemn vows were recorded, which we hope may prove the salvation of many precious souls. Every sentiment uttered breathed the missionary spirit, and many there dedicated themselves to do or die for the Lord. In the morning meeting of the last day, 225 testimonies of this sort were given in 45 minutes. GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.1

The afternoon of the last day presented a sight long to be remembered. The center body of the Tabernacle was reserved for those who were expecting to go abroad to distant fields of labor. One hundred or more of devoted men and women there presented themselves, ready for service. As their calm faces were upturned to the speakers on the stand, a heavenly light shone out of many faces as they listened to the voice of God’s servant in holy exhortation regarding their privileges in his work. GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.2

The meeting at night, the last of the session, was in some measure a continuation of the afternoon service. A multitude testified to the new impulses, and the quiet joy received from the privileges of the Conference. Solos were sung by Brethren Sheafe, Beardsley, and Waggoner. The words of some of these appear in this issue of the BULLETIN. Near the close of that never-to-be-forgotten occasion, Brother N. Z. Town, who goes as a missionary to South America, was set apart to the work of the gospel ministry. Elder A. T. Jones offered the prayer. Elder S. N. Haskell delivered a most impressive charge, and extended the hand of fellowship in behalf of the denomination. Thus closed the meeting which marks a new era in the history of Seventh-day Adventists and the work God has given them to do. GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.3

Gentle words are always gain.—Tennyson. GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.4

“Dare to be true. Nothing can need a lie.” GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.5

“Our place is kept ready for us to fill it.” GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.6

“The word of God reveals his character.” GCB April 25, 1901, page 458.7