Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)

The 1873 General Conference Session

Friday morning was occupied with the organization of the conference and the appointment of committees. Following this, Butler and White each made some remarks, thought by J. N. Andrews, editor of the Review, to be timely and appropriate. He noted the evident presence of the Spirit of God in an unusual measure. Since Uriah Smith's confessions and reconsecration of heart and life to the cause a few weeks before, [The precise cause of smith's disaffection and the unfortunate consequences that brought a blight upon the cause is not revealed in available documents, but there are several inferences here and there that three factors were present: James White's letters, which he felt were unjustifiably severe; messages of counsel from Ellen White that he felt were not really called for; and open criticism of James and Ellen White, which had a baleful harvest.] the atmosphere in Battle Creek was changing. Everyone seemed to sense it, and it was to become more evident as the meetings of the session got under way. 2BIO 393.6

At two o'clock Friday afternoon, James White gave what might be considered the keynote address, explaining that the conference was called early to consider such pressing matters as extending the work on the Pacific Coast, sending a missionary to Switzerland, and undertaking the establishment of a denominational school. 2BIO 394.1

Sabbath services were deeply spiritual services, setting the mood for the whole session. J. N. Andrews reported: 2BIO 394.2

Sabbath morning we met at nine o'clock for social worship. But Brother White was led out to speak at length words of exhortation, instruction, encouragement, and admonition. The Spirit of God especially attended them to all present. 2BIO 394.3

At ten thirty Sister White spoke on the temptation of Christ. The discourse was full of instruction and of the deepest interest. 2BIO 394.4

In the afternoon Brother White preached on the unity of the people of God, the perpetuity of spiritual gifts, and the sacred nature of our work. All hearts were deeply touched. 2BIO 394.5

Then followed an hour of testimonies, in which the Spirit of God rested down in a very special manner. The remarks of Brother Uriah Smith cheered all hearts. 2BIO 394.6

In the evening Brother Butler read an essay, a portion of which appears in this number of the Review, setting forth the fact that in every important work which God has committed to His people to perform, He has raised up and qualified men to lead in the accomplishment of the same, and showing the duty of the church to strengthen the hands of those upon whom such responsibilities are laid. There was perfect unanimity of opinion and of feeling in the discussion of this subject.—Ibid., November 18, 1873 2BIO 394.7

Butler cherished a high regard for James White and greatly admired his vision and unique leadership. As Butler's message was turned over in the hearts of the delegates, they gradually saw that he was taking the position that one man, regardless of his title, was to be recognized as the visible leader of Seventh-day Adventists, as Moses was the visible leader of the Hebrews; this, of course, pointed to James White. The perils of this philosophy were not at the moment seen, but in time they would have to be reckoned with. White was now riding the crest of the wave of popularity, and Butler was quite willing that he should. 2BIO 395.1

One of the early actions of the session read: Resolved, That we fully endorse the position taken in the paper read by Elder Butler on leadership. And we express our firm conviction that our failure to appreciate the guiding hand of God in the selection of His instruments to lead out in this work has resulted in serious injury to the prosperity of the cause, and in spiritual loss to ourselves. And we hereby express our full purpose of heart faithfully to regard these principles, and we invite all our brethren to unite with us in this action.—Ibid., November 25, 1873 2BIO 395.2