Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Ms 9, 1863

Testimony Regarding the Young

1863

Portions of this manuscript are published in HP 218.

Sabbath, June 6th [1863], I was shown some things in regard to the young. Those who decide to be on the Lord’s side, and have made up their minds understandingly, have commenced a good work. Yet the work has but just commenced. They have but just enlisted in the army. The conflicts and battles are before them. With the young it is yet to be proved who has received the gospel seed in good soil. 1LtMs, Ms 9, 1863, par. 1

The Sower has been sowing the gospel seed. Some of the seeds fell by the wayside and the fowls came and devoured them up. This parable applies to the young as well as to those older. Jesus explains the parable to His disciples. “When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart.” Matthew 13:19. The young, I saw, may hear the truth but do not scoff at it or oppose it. They think all they hear true, but do not investigate for themselves. They look to some other one. “If he embraces the truth, I will also.” They do not think seriously upon the worth of the soul and the worth of Jesus’ love. They merely desire heaven but do not choose it. A few jesting remarks from foolish companions whose life is folly are sufficient to destroy the few transient thoughts they have had in regard to their eternal interest. [Manuscript was not finished.] 1LtMs, Ms 9, 1863, par. 2