Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]

The WCTU Misjudged

[In the latter part of 1899, there appeared in one of our periodicals a series of articles pointing out the relation sustained by the W. C. T. U. to the National Reform Association, and critically analyzing the statements of some leaders of the W. C. T. U. with respect to their attitude toward Sunday legislation. Mrs. White sent to the author of these articles a letter of caution, showing the danger of repelling those whom we might, by kindness and cooperation, win to the truths that God has given to us. We quote a portion of this letter]: 1MR 123.3

My attention has been called to your articles in our papers in reference to the Women's Christian Temperance Union. In the work of temperance, all church members are supposed to stand upon the platform of union.... You are building up barricades that should not be made to appear. After reading your articles, will those who know not what our faith is feel inclined to make an attempt to unite with us? The tone of your articles savors of Pharisaism. The man who expects to enlighten a deceived people must come near them and labor for them in love. He must become a center of holy influences. One concession made on their part would prepare the way after patient enlightenment for a second concession.... 1MR 123.4

If far more earnest, devoted, determined efforts were made for such associations as the W. C. T. U., light would shine forth to souls who are as honest as was Cornelius. It was the Lord's design that work should be done for the Women's Christian Temperance Union, that those who are seeking the light might be gathered out from those who are so bitterly opposed to the message God is giving to the world. 1MR 124.1

The ideas expressed in your articles savor so strongly of antagonism that you will do harm, more harm than you can possibly conceive. Remember that if by the injudicious use of your pen you close the door to even one soul, that soul will confront you in the judgment. Letter 17, 1900, pp. 1-4. (To Elder A. T. Jones, February 6, 1900.) 1MR 124.2

[A few weeks later, she gave added counsel to this writer, as follows]: 1MR 124.3

Light has been given me that there are those with most precious talents and capabilities in the W. C. T. U. Much time and money has been absorbed among us in ways that bring no returns. Instead of this, some of our best talent should be set at work for the W. C. T. U., not as antagonists but as those who fully appreciate the good that has been done by this body. We should seek to gain the confidence of the workers in the W. C. T. U. by harmonizing with them as far as possible. We are to let them see and understand that the foundation of the principles of our doctrine is the Word of God.... 1MR 124.4

My brother, do not represent truth and the situation of things as so formidable that those belonging to the W. C. T. U. will turn away in despair. There are vital truths upon which they have had very little light. They should be dealt with in tenderness, in love, and with respect for their good work.... Withhold your condemnation till you and our people have done all that can be done to reach them, not by the learned arguments of ministers, but through women of influence working as Sister Henry worked. Letter 59, 1900, pp. 1-4. (To Elder A. T. Jones, April 18, 1900.) 1MR 125.1