(c) Copyright 2000 Research Applications International.

WATC
HERALD OF CHRIST’S PRESENCE.
“Watchman, What of fhe fivighf ?” “The Morning Comefh.“-Isaiah xxi. Il.

v PITTSBURGH, PA., JANUARY, 1884 No. 6

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

With the opening of another year we look backward over Call to mind the words: “My grace is sufficient for thee,”
the past and forward into the future. and, “Count it all joy when ye fall into temptations,” know-
The year just buried will be one long remembered by ing that if emcrcised thereby they will work out for us an ex-
quite a number of our readers, as the one in which they first ceeding and eternal weight of glory.
gained a knowledge of God’s word and the gracious plan The past year has made us acquainted with a larger num-
therein revealed. To some it has been full of trial, as the ber of sacrificers (Priests-l Pet. 2:9-the Levites did not
great Refiner and Purifier has had them in the furnace to offer sacr$ces) than WC had before known. Men and women
separate the dross from the gold, and to cause them to reflect who not only hazard but spend, of their consecrated time,
his image (Mal. 3:3). Happy are they who, being tried by money, talent and reputation, in spreading the “glnd tidings
the tire, have not been found wanting, but have had their of great joy, which shall be unto all people.” Through these
hearts more firmly established in the truth, and who have consecrated agencies the truth is reaching other sheep of the
let go of the traditions of men and taken hold more firmly flock, who were famishing and ready to perish by the way
than ever of God’s gracious favor in Christ Jesus our Lord. for want of its sustaining power. And these methods and ex-
Looking forward, we can but expect the same work to ertions are being abundantly blessed, not alone in feeding
continue until every part of our faith-building is tried, and and refreshing the hungry, but also in the growth and devel-
the wood, hay and stubble all consumed; for “the day that opment of those so engaged. Every exertion in the Lord’s
cometh [is now present] shall try every man’s work of what service, and done unto tWe Lord, is sure to bring a compen-
sort it is.” (Mal. 4:l; 1 Cor. 3:13-l%) If in the past your sating reward and blessing upon the heart of the laborer.
building has stood the test and not been destroyed, rejoice; The year commenced offers fresh opportunities for sarri-
but still with trembling, remembering that the trial is not flcing service. None should feel discouraged at opposition,
all over yet. “Be not high-minded, but fear.” “Let him that and because few will believe our report-our Gospel. It is the
thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” If there is in few who have “an ear to hear” that we should erpect to
your building anywhere that which will not stand the test of reach. If you at any time feel discouraged, rail to mind the
fire, it must go-replace it quickly by t,hat which will abide. Master’s experience. If the majority heard his words you
If there is anything lacking in your consecration-if in might expect them to hear yours; but if as a mass
anything you have a will not surrendered to and harmonized they rejected his words they will reject yours also. If they
with God’s will-take heed to it, for he will discover it. If, have calIed the Master Beelzcbub, what more should
as one of his jewels, you are being polished to radiate his we expect? It is sufficient that the disciple be as his
light, take heed that in you there shall be no self-will, which Lord. (Matt. lo:25 John 13: 16.) Then, with thanks
as a grit might cause a flaw and mar your beauty and ac- for the past and present, and earnest prayer and con-
ceptableness with him when making up his jewels. fidence for the future, let us go forth with the whole ar-
It is not probable, that trials, besetments and difficulties mor of God girded on yet more securely, with the girdle of
in the “narrow way” will be less in the year begun than in the truth and trust; and grasping yet more firmly our shield of
one ended. The furnace gets hotter rather. Yet, let us re- faith in his protecting care, and with the sword of the Spirit
member that the greater our difficulties the greater the sup- -his own Word-in hand, let 11s fight a good fight until we
ply of “grace to help in every time of need,” for which it is finish the work given us, that we may be of those accounted
our privilege to call at “the throne of the heavenly grace.” worthy to enter into the joys of their Lord.

A HAPPY NEW YEAR

“New mercies, new blessings, new light on thy way; New gifts for His treasures, new smiles from his fare;
New courage, new hope, and new strength for thy day; New streams from the fountain of infinite grace.
New notes of thanksnivina. new chords of delight: New stars for thv crown, and new tokens of love;
New songs in the m&ninE, new songs in the “night. New gleams of the glory that waits thee above;
New wine in thy chalice, new altars to raise; New light of His countenance, radiant and dear!
New fruit for thy Master, new garments of praise; All this be thy joy in the happy new Year !”

AN INTERESTING LETTER
Bru)!su&k, lfaine. ten days in the wilderness; but glory be to God I then en-
DEAR BRO. RUSSELL:-I have read THE TOWEB from Jan- tered Canaan. I am an evangelist and have been- preaching
uary last with absorbing interest. God bless and speed the the truth as I understood it for many ycnrs. 1 intend to
good work. I have long believed in a pure, consecrated and keep on doing so. God has been wonderfully opening to me
holy ministry and church. But never have I so fully en- the Scriptures of late. I find a fczo hungry ones ercrywhrrc
joyed my privilege as for the past few weeks and especially I go. Yours truly.
since Aug. 30, 1883. I spent forty years, five months, and --.
[5711 (1)
 THE SCHOOL OF CHRIST
In the hope of strengthening the children of God, who have their time and arrangements more at their own command,
placed themselves in the school of Christ, we would offer a but habit and early training prompt them to spend all avail-
few pracstical suggestions on methods of study and discipline. able time in care for many things which ought to be dis-
,4nd first we remark. that none should expect to make prog pensed with. Habits of close economy prompt many to do
ress in the truth who do not devote time and patient, persist- things which might be done by others, long after the necessity
ent effort to it. Who would expect to become progcient in for such economy is past. And so they garry burdens them-
any branch of mathematics, science, or philosophy without selves lone after their children are able to share them. That
smh study? And how much more important is Bible study. daughter “will be much better prepared for the after duties
The Bible seems to be an unfailing mine of wealth, at of I’fe who early learns to share -a mother’s cares; and SO,
least none have ever yet exhausted its treasures; and we also. that son who learn% earlv to feel and share the father’s
must give it patient, faithful study, if we would attain that cares. Thus, much valuable time may he gained and utilized
degree- of prdficicncy in it which” the Great Teacher has a in the study of the word of God.
right to esnect, and which the exieencies of the time in We know also that many have not formed habits of study
which wc live necessitate. If Paul &d we should need the and consecutive thought, yet all these difficulties may be
whole armor of (+od to be able to withstand the fiery darts overcome. It should be borne in mind also, that mere read-
and wily arts of the adversary in this evil day, in all probabil- ing is not studv. To take a Bible or a paper and sit where
ity we shall not be able to stand, with much less thaa the we” are subject to interruptions, etc., is not study. Your chil-
whole armor. dren could never prepare their lessons for school in such a
\Ve well know the difficulties and disadvantages under wav. How then, you ask, shall we study? First, we would
which many labor. We know the business, household and sai, have some ‘regular place, and time-also, if possible, as
family cares that press upon the majority. But did you ever free from interruntions as vou can make it. Let the helps for
think that this very pressure of seeming necessitv. is uer- study all be theie. Then”read critically, searching out ref-
mitted to give you an -opportunity to ove&ome and -to s&ri- erences, and endeavoring to bring the subject in hand clearly
fice? If all the hindrances were taken out of the way your before your mind. Take one subject at a time and master
privilege of running the na~you, way for the high calling would it before you leave it. Keep a file of your old papers on hand
be gone. The Lord says, Be not overcharged with the cares and within easy reach, and make an index of subjects. We
of this life (Luke 21:34.) and aeain Paul savs. “God is are sorry to find that some have given away hack numbers,
faithful who will not suffer vou t”o be tempted” above that which cannot now be replaced, but we hope none will do so
ye are able; but will with the temptation ah make a way in future. If you want sample copies for friends you can
to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 1 Cor. 10:13. send for them.
If, then. you are strongly tempted to be overcharged with After studying any subject, take pencil and paper and
the cares of life, know this, that such is not the will of God, write out your understanding of it. This will greatly aid
and look out for the wav of escane which he indicates. We vou in thinking and searching out all the evidence supplied
are all more or less the “creatures- of habit, and generally we in the Word 0; every subject As you thus study you-will
cling to them long after the necessity which fir& demanded he surmised to find how beautifullv the Scriptures will fall
them has nassed. The brethren penerallv have their hours into harmony-on the line of truth, “and how lack of harmony
of lahor fi;ed by the prevailing business”customs, and have will reveal and expose error. Some will think they cannot
their evenings left free from care for study, but if they should do this because they have not been used to so studying, but
find business demanding all their time and all their effort for the sooner you get used to it the better. It is pos$~~;;
any length of time, this is not the Lord’s will; they are being all, and your ability will increase with practice.
overcharged and oppressed of the devil for the very purpose then have a certainty of knowledge beyond the painful shift-
of retarding their spiritual progress; and a way of escape ings of doubt-a full assurance of hope well worth your most
by change of business, or otherwise, should be sought with careful effort. The Spirit also will help our infirmities and
the Lord’s assistance. lead such into all truth. “He that seek&h findeth.”
With the sisters the case is somewhat different; they have MRS. C. T. R.

THE LESSON TAUGHT BY A SWISS GUIDE

Sarah Smiley, in her account of a tour in the Alps, re- moment, kindly but firmly demanded that I should give him
counts a touching incident and gives a beautiful illustration everything but my alpenstock. Putting them with the ut-
of Scripture-teaching concerning the generous help of our most care upon his shoulders, with a look of intense satisfac-
great burden-bearer. “ln the summer of 1879.” says the tion he led the way. And now, in my freedom, I found that
writer, “I descended the Rhigi with one of the most faithful of I could make double speed with double safety. Then a voice
the old Swiss guides. Beyond the service of the day, he gave spoke inwardly : ‘0 foolish, nilful heart, hast thou indeed
me, unconsciously, a lesson for life. His first care was to given up thy last burden. 7 Thou hast no need to carry them.
put my wraps and other burdens upon his shoulder. In do- I saw it all in a flash; and then, as I leaped lightly from
ing this he called for all; but I chose to keep back a few for rock to rock down the steep mountain side, I said within my-
special care. I soon found them no little hindrance to the self: ‘And even thus will I follow Jesus, my Guide, my bur-
freedom of my movement, but still I would not give them up den-bearer. I will rest all my care upon Him, for He careth
until my guide, returning to me where I sat resting for a for me.’ “--Selected.

GOD’S RICH SUPPLY

Human nature is a mass of wants. The earliest cry of away where I put my LJ. 8. bonds, with a comfortable certain-
infancy means want of food, or sleep, or relief from pain. The ty of no defalcation. This passage is one of the “Govern-
silent appeal of old age in its arm-chair is for a daily supply ment Securities” of heaven. It is my God who issued the
of daily necessaries. Columns of our daily journals are filled promise; my own personal Father. He does not bind him-
with the catalogue of “wants.” The chief purpose of all trade self to give me all I may lust after; no not even all I may
manufactures and commerce, is to supply the various needs pray for. Many of my wants are purely artificial, and born
of humanity; and God’s grandest ministration of love is to of selfishness. I may crave wealth, and he may see that my
supply the endless necessities of his dependent children. soul would be richer if I were poor. I may ask for some
\Vhat a glorious promise that is which Paul records in promotion, and he may know that my way to holiness lies
his letter to the generous Phillippians. They had been kind through a valley of humiliation and disappointment. So he
to him, and he writes hack to them, “My God will supply all only agrees to give me what I need, which is a very different
your need according to his riches in glory, by Jesus Christ.” thing from what I may be craving.-2’. L. Cuyler.
That is a divine promise, made to be kept. I can put that

THE BLOOD FOR A TOKEN

God said to the children of Israel on that dark night carefully the account in Exodus xii.) The lamb’s blood
down in Egypt, that the blood should he to them for a token, pointed to Jesus’ blood to be shed long years after, and just
and when He should see the blood he would pass over. as the children of Israel were perfectly safe on the dark night
You will remember that the first-born in all the houses in sheltered by the blood of the lamb, so every one sheltered by
Egypt were to be killed, but God was going to pass over every the blood of God’s Lamb, Jesus, is just as safe as in the pres-
house where the blood was upon the door posts and lintels. ence of God. As many as received Him, (Jesus) to them
What blood 7 The blood of the lamh. They were to be per- gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that
fectly safe if the blood was there, for God had said it. (Read believe on his name.-8eZected.
(2) 15721
 STAND
When you can do no more, stand. “Having done a11 things easier to rush forward to the charge than to stand still and
stand.” But beware how and where vou stand. “Stand fast receive the fierv assault. The eood soldier must be readv for
in the faith.” Stand on covenant gr’bund. Stand with face both. They s<rve well who mirch and fight for their king.
to foe. Stand watching, waiting, victorious, Stand still and But “they also serve who only stand and wait.” Patience
see the salvation of God. Stand not in your own caprice, or and fortitude are precious in the sight of God, and “to ohey
by human order. Even though Red Sea barriers lie across is better than sacrifice.” Where patience ran have her pcr-
your way it may be the will of God that you go forward feet work, whether in the stress and strain of conflict, or in
without a halt. It is easier to march than to stand. It is the trial of waiting, there it is good to he.--rS’eZecled.

“BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD”

“Look at the time of Moses. Every morning, perhaps at same sermon daily repeated for 1500 years. I wonder what
9 o’clock, a sermon was preached, (We may say an object people would say if we gave the same sermon, the same heads,
lesson was given ) , of which the text was, The Lamb Slain. And the same illustrations, year in and year out? We need not do
there might be twenty other offerings going on at the same exactly that, for there is abundant variety in the Bible; hut
time, and others continuing al1 day. In the evening the same the subject for our preaching is one that never changes-the
sermon was preached from the same text. For we may re- Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world; the
gard the morning and evening sacrifice of the Iamb as the T,nmh in the midst of the throne.“--Dr. d. -4. Bonar.

CHRIST OUR ALL

A living Christ, of wondrous birth, A Chvist ascended-all is done,
Who trod the dreary paths of earth, A world redeemed, a victory \ton.
Shedding abroad his holy light, With angel hosts, a glorious throng.
Through the deep gloom of sin’s dark night. We’ll sing with joy salvation’s song.

A dying Christ, whose precious blood A Ziz+ng Christ our spirits nerd.
Seals the poor sinner’s peace with God; -4 Zocing Christ our souls to frcd;
And fills the soul with fullest love, A dying Christ, Our ransom he,
Like to the joy prepared nhove. A risen Christ to set us free.

This to cmr need-a Christ within,

A life with God, afar from sin;
A Christ whose love our hearts shall fill,
And quite subdue our wayward will.
--Selected.

HIMSELF TOOK OUR INFIRMITIES AND BARE OUR SICKNESSES

MATT. VIII: 1’7
Since it is repeatedly stated in Scripture that Jesus was reached manhood, and Dresented himself in consecration to
free from sin, both personal and inherited, that “in him was death, in the symbol of baptism. But he could not do so until
no sin,” (2 Cor. 5:21.) that no cause of death was found in then, for thoueh he had been comina to manhood all those
him (Luke 22:23), etc., some have wondered how these state- thiriy years, hue had not come until “thirty years of age ac-
ments can be reasonably harmonized with others and with the cording to the Law. There, finding himself a man, “he be-
tacts of Jesus’ life. came [by consecration] obedient unto death,” and conducted
We know well that death and a11 its accompaniments of himself in such a way also as to exhaust and use up his
pain and sorrow are the direct result of sin. and that if anv perfect life.
inan were actually free from sin, he would be free also fro& If this reasoning he correct and scriptural, it proves that
sin’s penalty, death. WC know that the same law which the man Jesus was a perfect being--a PIiRFIlCT AIIN; htww IIt>
guarantees that the disobedient shall die, guarantees also possessed not only vitality, but every other quality of body
that the obedient shall live. (Rom. IO:Fj; Gal. 3:12.) The and mind, in a way not possessed by the Adamic race cnsl:t~ctl
question, t,hen, is not an unreasonable one: If Mary’s child for centuries to sin and groaning under the bondage of cor-
did no sin and did not receive the imperfect and condemned ruption (death). In a word, Jesus at the time of his ronse-
Adamic life through a human father, but a perfect, unim- rrition must have had that perfection of form and feature, of
paired and uncondemned life transferred from his pre-existent mind and body, originally possessed by Bdam before sin and
condition, should he be born an imperfect, blemished. pained death blighted and withered his crown of glory and honor.
and dying human being? We answer, No, he should not; and (Psa. 8 :5 ; Heh. 2:7.) And the same glorious perfection must
if Jesus was thus born we should assuredly claim that it was have been in the man Jesus which will be found in all the
an evidence either that in him was sin, and over him death restored race when in the close of his glorious reign, their
had power and dominion because of sin dwelling in him, or Redeemer shall have wiped away a11 traces and marks of sin
that God’s law had been violated and the innocent compelled and pain and death. (Rev. 21:4.)
to suffer the penalty of guilt. But as either of these views We know that Jesus received a special anointing of the
would be opposed to the character and word of God. we re- Spirit at the time of his baptism, and it may not he nossihh
ject both ai* erroneous. for us to accurately determ&e ho& many of l& mirar~es wart’
Jesus being free from all sin was equally free from all pen- the result of this anointing, and how many of his nontlt~rfnl
alties or wages of sin. Were it otherwise he could not have works were merely the exercise of powers belonging to all
given himseii a ransom-an equivalent price-for the sin of po’fcct men, undegraded and in full fellowship with Got1 11-c
the first Adam and its conseauences. Had he come into the find today prodigies among men, some rcprrsenting to a
world under condemnation of. death he would have had no greater degree than their fellow-men, one or nnotbcr human
life to lay down for ours, as our redemption price. To be an quality; yet it must be apparent, that if one mnn conId bc
acceptable sacrifice he must have been (as shown in the tvnes Imagined, who possessed the great qualities and power:: of :111
alsoj a “Lamb without blemish and without spot.” ( 1 Pec.Ll : gre$i men, he could he no more than-a perfect ma;,. nnd doubt.
19.) And “the Lamb of God which taketh awav the sin of less then would be found very imperfect, if compared with
the’ world” (John 1: 29) was without blemish, an”d was there- either of the two perfect men, Adam and Jesus.
fore an acceptable sacrifice. And let it not be forgotten that Let us remember that the first man Iost great dominion,
this sacrifice was not made in the change of nature from snir- glory and honor, which belonged to human nature, when he
itual to human, but was made after he -had become a man--“A sold himself to sin. (Pm. 8:5; Rom. 7.14.) Let us remem-
bodv hast thou Drenared me” for the sufferinp of death. IHeb. her, too, that Jesus possessed that same humanity, and all its
10:5.) Hence ii sdould he clear to all, that zeath in no ‘sense crown of glory, honor and dominion, when hc became a man
had any claim upon him until he overed himself-a man for (Heb. 2:9.)
men ( 1 Cor. 15:21) , and “became obedient unto death.” (Phil. Before connidcring further ,Ttlsus’ power as a prrfrct m:ln.
2:8.) let us examine a scripture usiiaIIy snppo& to tmcli tb:lt
Doubtless the desire to snrrifire himself and thus redeem .Tcsus was one of the most disfi,nurcd and bidrnus of men
men, was in the mind of the youthful Jesus long before he without a trace of brRuty or anything to cause mrn to ad-
r573.l
(3) ZION’S WATCH TOWER

mire him. This view is the very opposite of the one we are accustomed to such conditions that they can laugh and sing
presenting. We claim that the-face- and form are the very and be merry, even there. The cause, is that their senses
index to the heart and life. So surelv and to the extent that and tastes are coarser, more depraved. than yours.
dissipation and sin have hold on a man’s mind and body, so Think, then, of how the world must have appeared to the
surely will his face declare it. And as surely as purity and perfect man Jesus, as he saw men grovelling in sin, misery,
grace reign within, the face will indicate it. If Jesus was a sickness and death. He had sorrows indeed, but they were
perfect man he must have been as far from physical deform- ours which his sympathy laid hold of, and by which he was
ity and imperfection as the east is from the west. Instead impressed more than others. In his sympathy and love he
of horrible, we believe him to have been “altogether lovely.” gave of his own vitality to many of those groaning, dying
The scriptures in question are found in Isa. 52: 14 and ones about him. It is a fact coming dailv to be more rec-
53:2. Please refer and read. Concerning these statements ognized among scientific men, that- some’ persons possess
we would say, that the translation of Isa. 52: 14 in the com- greater vitality, than others, and possessing more can com-
mon King James’ version is not as clear as in others. The municate it to others who have less; though such are liable
Douay translation of verse 14 reads: “So shall his visage be to feel for a time the weakness which is cured in the weaker
inglorious among men and his form among the sons of men.” one. Jesus being perfect had an abundance of sympathy;
Young’s translation has it: “So marred bv man, his an- consequently he continued to heal those who came unto him,
pearaice and his form by sons of men.” In-all, the passage though each time he was touched with a feeling of THEIB IH-
has evidentlv one of two meanines. It mieht refer to the FIBMITY while they were refreshed and revitalized by his
marring of “his beauty with the Thorns, nayls and sorrows. strength.
If he had no beauty he could not have it marred, and the Few seemingly have noticed, that this is the teaching im-
more perfect his feature and form, the more it co&f be plied in the Scripture narrative of many of Jesus’ miracles.
marred; hence if he was “altogether lovely” his beauty might We, therefore, quote some instances. A poor woman, who
be marred more than others because he had more to mar, and had been sick twelve years touched his garment and was
vet not be after all inferior to others in annearance. healed, and “Jesus, immediately knowing in himself, that
Or it may refer to his character, as sugg&&d by the Douay VIRTUE [power, &CL@/, strength] HAD GONE OUT OF HIM,"
translation. He was deficient in those aualities which the said, “Who touched me?” (Mark 5 :30.) (Luke 8:43-46, and
world esteems-inglorious and ignoble in their depraved sight. 6: 19) declares that “The whole multitude sought to touch
Depraved man has come to admire many things which in him: for there went VIBTUE [strength, vitality, power] OUT
his perfection would have seemed horrible, and he has come OF HIM, and healed them all.” Matthew 8: 17 gives the same
to despise that which is good and truly grand. The Jewish testimony: that when Jesus healed the sick it was in ful-
people- looked for the Sa’;iour and De&erer promised, but fillment of Isaiah’s prophecy which we are now considering,
looked from the denraved standnoint. Their conception wae “Himself took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses.”
a mighty warrior, *who, by plunder and butchery, ihould ac- What wonder, then, that such a man is said to have been
cumulate a great army, and with carnal weapons should con- a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief? But let us
quer the world, and thus save them from their enemies never forget that if sorrows and pain left its impress on that
roundabout. They overlooked the fact that their Saviour noble fat; and form, it was not bkcause of his own weakness;
must conquer death first, before subduing all things unto him- it was not because pain and sickness and death had hold of
self; in order that his might be an .evedustimg dominion. him. but that it had hold of our race, and he, full of love
Hence when Jesus and a few humble disciples walked and’sympathy, was bearing the burdens of others. Oh, how
through Palestine declaring “the kinerdom” at hand and Jesus far short of 8zr.chnerfect. boundless love do we find ourselves!
the k&g, and all eyes were attractzd to him, they DESPISFB It is onlv when wi measure ourselves by such a perfect stand-
him. He was a young man and most of, his followers the ard, thai we can realize how great was the fall which our
same. He had no army, and no wealth with which to collect race exnerienced through Adam’s disobedience. No wonder
one; neither had he any influence among the great. And we long for the restor&ion of mankind to such a condition,
when he said, “Love your enemies, do good to them that per- where each will love his neighbor as himself and be glad if
secute you,” “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon necessary to share each others’ woes; but it will not be nec-
earth,” and, “If thine enemy hunger feed him,” they concluded essary then; for when sin and its effects are all removed,
that such a one was the least likely to be the long-looked for its penalty, pain, sickness and death will be removed also.
DELIVEEEB. Our conclusion above, that the sorrow and infirmities
Even the purity and love and gentleness, blended with which Jesus bore were those of our race, and not his own, is
firmness and manly fearlessness, which marked his face and the testimony of the prophet, v. 4. “Surely he hath borne our
bore witness of his sinlessness, were to their depraved taste infirmities and carried our sorrows; and we have thought
marks of effeminacy. They would have much more admired him au it were, A L~EJC, and as one struck of God and af-
the deep set marks of sin, ferocity, passion, with words of flicted.,’ rLeDrOSV is in Scripture a tvpe of sin. The impli-
malice and hatred, coupled with boasts and threats against cation h&e %, ihat men considered J&us one contaminated
their enemies. So when they beheld him his “visage was in- with sin because he was bearing its penalties, not discerning
glorious among men, aged his form among the 8on8 of men.,’ that it was our8 which he carried. They thought him smitten
This last is our view of the meaning of this text, and it of God, righteously punished, and saw not that in him was no
seems to agree perfectly with the context succeeding, which we cause of punishment, and that 1Le took the infirmities of his
will now consider-we give the Douay translation (Isa. 53:2- own free will.]
12 )-our comments in brackets. “But he was wounded for our iniquities, he was bruised for
“And he shall grow up as a tender plant before him, and_ our sins. The chastisement of our peace was upon him, and
as a root out of a thirsty ground: [His appearance and sur- by his bruises we are healed.” (verse 5.)
roundings seemed unfavorable; he was an unlilcely king.] “811 we like sheep have gone astray, every one hath turned
There is no beautv in him nor comeliness: and we have seen aside unto his own way, and the Lord hath Z&d on him [the
him and there wa”s no sightliness that we- should be desirous willing burden bearer] the iniquity of US ALL." [“Jehovah
of him.‘, IWe found not in him those aualities eenerallv hath caused to meet on him, the punishment of us ALL."-
found in earthly conquerors, and preferredlto have “a robbei YOU?W'U t?WZUkZtiOW.
1
and murderer among us-Acts 3: 141 v. 2. “He was offered- because it was His own will, and he
“Despised and most abject [shunned] of men, a man of opened not his mouth. He shall be led as a sheep to the
sorrows and acquainted with infirmity: and his look was as slaughter, and shall be dnmb as a lamb before his shearer,
it were hidden and despised. [“As one hiding the face from and he shall not open his mouth.” [He shall be nonresisting]
us” (as in weeping)-Young’s translation,] whereupon we es- verse 7.
teemed him not.” [Jesus’s weariness and sorrow and weep- “He was taken away from distress and from judgment
ing, etc., were construed by men to result from weakness, in- [wickedness ] : who shall declare [to] his generation, because
stead of as it really was, from that perfection of organism [or why] he is cut off from the land of the living? For the
which enabled him to sympathize with the sufferings about wickedness of my people have I struck [smitten] him.” [His
him and to alleviate it, at his own loss. The more perfect death would be of so ignominious a nature, that few could
the organism, the more sympathetic; the finer its quality, the realize that he was suffering the iust for the unjust.]
more easily it is pained, and more deeply wounded. You who “And he shall give [himself a”mong] the ungodly for his
have never suffered severe privation,- but have things com- burial, and [be with] the rich for [in] his death; because [or
fortable and clean about vou, if YOU will PO into some of the although] he had done no iniquity, neither was there deceit in
garrets and cellars of the large” cities, ~711 meet with such his mouth; and the Lord [Jehovah] was pleased [willing] to
squalor, filth and wretchedness, that you would feel that bruise him in infirmity; [For] if he shall lay down his life
death would be far preferable to life, under such conditions; for sin, he shall see a long-lived seed, and the will of the
yet there you will find men, women and children who are so Lord [Jehovah] shall be prosperous in his hand.” [The ob-
[574]
JANUARY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (4)

ject of his sacrifice was two-fold. He desired to do the suppose that anything short of the blinding of the god of
Father’s will, and he desired to be the “everlasting Father” this world-the prince of darkness-could hinder them from
and to bring ‘many sons to life in the re-generation; bringing realizing that “he is altogether lovely,” “the chiefest among
them to freedom. libertv. nerfection and honor.] “Because his ten thousand.”
soul hath labored, he &ail see [the good results of his sacri- And even then, had he chosen to give them a reproving
fice] and be filled” [or satisfied], verses S-10. look-to speak and to rebuke their sin-again the multitude
“By his knowledge shall my just servant jl~stify many, and would doubtless have said, “Never man spake like this man,”
[or while] he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore [because and again they might have determined to “take him by force
of his faithfulness and sacrifice] will I distribute [or give1 and make him a king.” But he was there, not to clear him-
to him very many [inheritances; He becomes sole heir of the self and prove his innocence, but to suffer, to die, the just
inheritance of each one who he purchased with his own pre- for the unjust to bring us to God; hence he did nothing to
cious blood-very many-all men.] And he shall divide the interfere with his sacrifice of himself. “He answered him
spoils of the strong.” [The strong prince of this world has never a word.” (Matt. 27: 12-14.) He chose rather to give
obtained much spoil from mankind, leaving him destitute; but himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
this great deliverer shall not only bind the strong man, but Behold the perfect man, Jesus, and reflect that through
then shall he spoil his house (Matt. 12:29), and during his his ransom mankind in general has been redeemed from the
reign he shall divide or distribute the spoil to mankind, un- present lost condition of degradation and death, and may
til at its close they shall be very rich in glory, honor, and again reach perfection through “the Lamb of God that tak-
dominion of earth as at first. He shall be enabled to do all eth away the sin of the world.”
this] “BECAUSE he bath delivered his soul unto death, and If such be the glory of mankind-a little LOWER than the
was reputed [reckoned] with the wicked: and he bath borne angels-what must be the glory of that high exaltation to
the sins of many and prayed [interceded] for the transgres- which Jesus has attained as a reward for his obedience-the
sors.” Verses 11-12. divine nature “so much nhrr’rzn than the angels.” Then while
We conclude then, that this very prophecy which was trying to grasp God’s plan, remember that though we know
szlpposed to teach that Jesus had an ungainly, disfigured, and not what he is and what we shall be, we do not know that
hideous appearance-more than any other man, teaches the we shall see him and be like him as he now is-so much ex-
very reverse of this, that his perfection was ignoble in the alted above what he then was, grand as we have seen that to
sight of depraved men; and that whatever of care, or sor- have been. Nor would we be understood to teach that all of
row, or pain marked that perfect lovely face, was the self- Jesus’ wonderful works were performed by the powers of
imposed weight of our infirmities and sin. manhood ; many unquestionably were more than human
And, if we recall the various little incidents of his min- powers-the direct result of his anointing with the Holy
istry mentioned by the Apostles, as it were by accident, they spirit at baptism, the power of Jehovah in him.
all bear witness to the fact that he was a perfect man and In concluding this subject, we desire to lay before you
far superior to those about him. In childhood’s days he was another translation of Isa. 53. It is by a Hebrew, and la
a prodigy whose questions and answers astonished the Doc- the English translation accepted among that people. From
tors of the Law. -4s a public teacher he has never had an such a source one would not unreasonably expect that every
equal among men. What other teacher ever had five thou- item would be turned as far from fitting the general applica-
sand people leave their employment, and negligent of food, tion of it to Jesus as the language would permit; yet it is
follow him three days in the wilderness, marveling at the clear and strong, and it seems wonderful that in its clear
eracious words that nroceeded out of his mouth? (Matt. 14: delineation the poor Jew cannot read the life of Christ Jesus
y3-21, and 15 :29-39.)& our Lord. We give a literal quotation:
Call to mind the testimony of his enemies, when they ISAIAH LIII.
came back to report-“Never man spake like this man” (John “Who would have believed our report? And the arm of
7:46.) Mark the wisdom of his replies when they sought to the Lord-over whom hath it been revealed? Yea, he grew up
entrap him in his words. (Matthew 22:20-22; and 21:24, 25.) like a small shoot before him, and as a root out of a dry land:
Recall their remark “Whence hath this man this wisdom?” He had no form nor comeliness, so that we should look at
(Matt. 13:54.) Remember, too, the loftiness of his teaching: him, and no countenance so that we should desire him. He
although there have been great teachers in other days, and was despised and shunned by men; a man of pains and ac-
among the heathen, men who taught morality of a high type, quainted with disease; and as one who hid his face from us
yet never before was heard such perfection of teaching as was he despised, and we esteemed him not.
that of Jesus. The moralitv which teaches truthfulness and “But only OUR diseases did he bear himself, and OUR pains
lustice, keeping of covenant*8 and obeying of laws, had been he carried; while we indeed esteemed him strbcken, smatter of
taught; and it had been taught, also, “Thou shalt love thy God and afflicted. Yet he was wounded for OUR transgressions,
neighbor and hate thine enemy;” but none had ever gone so far he was bruised for OUR iniquities; the chastisement of OUR
as to say, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do peace was upon him; and through his bruising was healing
good to them that hate you, and pray for those who despite- granted to us.
fully use you and persecute you.” “If thine enemy hunger, “We all like sheep went astray; every one to his own did
feed him, if he thirst, give him drink.” Others had said, we turn; and the Lord let befall him the GUILT OF US ALL.
“Thou shalt not kill,” but none before had taught that to “He was oppressed, and he was also taunted. yet he
hate a brother without cause was a degree of murder. And, opened not his mouth; like the lamb which is led to the
with all his meekness and tenderness, he taught them as one slaughter, and like a ewe before her shearers is dumb, and
having authority, and not as the scribes. - he opened not his mouth.
And Jesus’ uhvsical form can have been no less nerfect “Through oppression and through judicial nunishment was
and beautiful than were his mental qualities. Crowned with he taken away; but his generation-who codd tell, that he
the glory and honor of human nature, he was by reason of was cut away out of the land of life (that) for the trans-
his nerfection a king among men, whose very look, calm and gressions of my people the plague was laid on him?
benebolent, impressed those %bout’him with reverential awe. “And he let his grave be made with the wicked and with
Call to mind how the soldiers who came to take him in the (godless) rich at his death. Although he had done no
the Garden of Gethsemane, overpowered for a time by the violence and there was no deceit in his mouth, but the Lord
majesty of his presence were obiiged to retreat before- him, was pleased to crush him through disease. When (now) his
though he rebuked them neither in word nor act. (John 18: soul hath brought the trespass-offering, then shall he see
3-S.)” It was much the same with another company sent to (his) seed live many days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall
take him, who came away without him. (John 7 :30, 32, 44- prosper in his hand.
46.) When Pilate was beset with the Jewish rabble, headed “(Freed) from the trouble of his soul shall hc see (the
and instigated by the priests, crying, “Crucify him,” he tried good) and be satisfied: through his knowledge shall nip
various methods to restore order and spare the innocent; but righteous servant bring many to righteousness, wirzlc hc will
as a last resort he brought Jesus himself before the people, and bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him (a portion)
as though confident that his glorious face and form would with the many, and with the strong shall he divide the spoil;
cantivate the hearts of the multitude, he said “BEHOLD because he poured out his soul unto death, and with trans-
THE MAN!” As though he would say, ‘Is that the man you gressors was he numbered, while Ae bore the sin of many; and
would crucify? If so, his blood be upon you. Nor can we FOR the transgressors he let (evil) befall him.“-rlecscr.

SEND the names of any to whom you think samples of the your neighbors-Free. Do not part with your own papers.
TOWER would be R blessing; or we will send you samples for you will need them for reference.

c5751
 PROPHETIC PEN PICTURES
OONSIDE~ WD’S WAYS used to represent the nominal church, so Ariel here and Zion
(Isa. 28 :23-29.) in verse 8 refer to the same thing. The prophet here declares
“Give ve ear and hear mv voice: hearken and hear mv that woe, distress, trouble, is about to come on the nominal
speech : both the ploughmah plouih all day [always] t’o church. But though the -nominal church, as a system, has
sow? doth he oDen and break the clods of his ground? When become corrupt, the Lord still permits her to add year to year,
he bath made plain [prepared] the face there;f doth he not to prolong her existence a few years, that his truly conse-
cast abroad the fltches aid scatter the cummin, and cast in crated children may complete their sacrifice. One important
the principal wheat, and the aDDOinted barlev. and the rve part of their sacrifice is to separate from the nominal systems
in tlieir piace? Fo; his God doi instruct hi& to discreti&, and to stand connected only with the true.
and doth teach him.” “Yet” Jehovah declares “will I distress Ariel, and there
Because of their short-sightedness, men are apt to think shall be) heaviness and so;row.” (Verse 2.) Althoueh the
of God’s works as aimless and lacking definite obiect and Lord will distress Ariel, the nom&al churcd, yet he Will re-
time; but the Prophet shows us that Go& times and seasons member that many within her are his own dear children;
and plans are definite and methodical. Here he Dresents the some of them weak, erring and negligent: and the verv obiect
familiar scenes of farm life, saying that as God i&tructs the of this distress is to awaken the& a\d to liberate them f;om
farmer to observe order in his work, so he also observes the their bondage and worldlv conformitv. The fact that God
same order in his plans and methods. He first Drenares the will thus regember his ow’n is clearly iaught in various scrip-
soil of humanity and breaks it up and makes it ;eady for tures, and is suggested in the latter c&use of this verse
the seed of truth. Then follows the sowinn of seed and the “and [although I will thus distress it1 it shall be unto me
harvest of each in its season. as Ariel” (Jgrusalem or Zion). His own children now held
This Gospel Age has been a sowing time. He that sowed in the bondage of the doomed systems are still dear to him;
the good seea is <he Son of Man (Ma’tt. 13:37), and his dis- and he will save them, though with the maioritv it will be-
ciples have assisted under his direction. It will be followed bv “so as by fire”-through “g&at tribulation.” ”
a “harvest,” as it was preceded by an age of breaking up an& The Lord here describes the overthrow necessarv to sen-
preparing men by the plow and harrow of bitter experiences arate the true Ariel-Jerusalem, or Zion-from tke m&i-
with sin and Law. So, too, there are as many harvests as tude of the worldly and unregenerate which she has received
there are kinds of seed ( 1 Cor. 15:38-44), but order governs as her children, and because of whose presence in her she is
all. sometimes termed Babylon, or confusion. He says: “I will
But while all recoenize that there is a Drover time to camp against thee rourid about [0 Babbler-You&g], and will
sow, it is generally foqgotten that a reaping iirn;, a harvest, lay siege against thee with a mount [camp] ; and I will raise
shall come. But for the same reason that God did not for- forts against thee [bulwarks to hide myself from thee], And
ever prepare the soil, he will not forever be sowing the seed, thou shalt be brought down. and shalt sneak out of the ground.
but in due time will give his attention to reaping and thresh- and thy speech &all be low out of t&e dust, and th; voice
ing. shall se & of one that bath a familiar spirit, out-of the
This is the point of the illustration: the time of trouble ground, and thv sneech shall whisDer out of the dust.”
Already the”pride of the nominil church begins to be hum-
coming upon the Church should be recoenized as the harueut. bled. Once she loudly and boldly proclaimed her teachings
the thyeskg time, the time for separatiig the real grain from of eternal torment, the damnation of non-elect infants, etc.:
the chaff and tares. The harvest renresents two general but now her voice is low, and she merely whispers these .teachL
classes, with some variety in each. T$e fitches and &mmin inge in her writings, or cautiously from the pulpit. She has
(verse 27 ) were small aromatic seeds used sometimes for food, been puffed up by what she esteems her success-her wealth
but more commonly for medicinal purposes. These grew in and members. - worldliness has filled her heart and the Spirit
little pods very easily crushed, and hence required gentle of Christ has been choked. Woe to Zion. for she shall 5nd the
threshing with a rod or staff to separate them. These, we Lord arrayed against her, and he shall’bring down her pride
presume, represent a class of eaints who, not being closely to the earth, that she may be humbled and cry unto him from
wedded to the world and its systems, can be quickly and easily the dust.
senarated from it.
“Moreover, the multitude of thy strangers shall be like
r The other grains mentioned, of which much larger quanti- small dust, and the multitude of thi terrible ones [tyrants-
ties are grown, all cling closely to the chaff some more so Leeser’s trans.1 shall be as chaff that nasseth away” : “and
than others ; and hence it was necessary to use rougher this shall be -at unawares-suddenly” (verse 5Lieeser’s
means to thresh it free. Cart wheels were passed over them trans. ) . The principal cause of nominal Zion’s distress is
repeatedly until the separation was effected.- So some of the her multitude of strange children-the children of the world,
Lord’s children cling so closely to the world, its forms and unregenerated, who compose the greater part of her numbers;
institutions. etc.. that thev must be Dut through the severe These she has come to consider her strength, her power.
ordeal; and eveiy true grain shall be-saved by \ome process. Their wealth, their influence and their standing in the world,
(1 Car. 3: 15.) she is trusting in; and by these she has been puffed up.
This is more clearly shown in another translation: “For the “Thou shalt be visited of the Lord of hosts with thunder.
fitches shall not be threshed with a threshing instrument and with earthquake, and with great noise, with storm and
[with saw-like teeth], neither is a cart wheel turned upon the tempest, and the flame of devouring fire” (verse 61. These
cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and are symbolic expressions of the great storm of trouble now
the cummin with a rod. But bread-grain [though it ulti- gatheiing and sion to break with-force on nominal Zion. The
mately] shall be broken small [or ground]; but- [yet] the thunder and ltoiae indicate controversy, and we find infidelity
thresher shall not thresh it forever. neither shall the cart in its most subtle form springing up in the midst of the
wheel hurt it, nor break it with its -[thresher’s] teeth. This Church. Its most marked feature is the denial of the ram-
also cometh forth from the Lord God of hosts to make his som given bv Christ our Lord. This error, which strikes at
council wonderful and magnify justice.” (Vs. 28, 20. ) the very fo&dation of God’s truth, is boldly proclaimed by
This shows us that though the Lord will use severer and some of the most prominent of the nominal church, and many
stroneer measures to seDarate some of his children than is are following their leading. Under the general and wide-
necesgary with others, y& it is not his design that the time spread spirit of doubt and unbelief, it will soon be discov-
of troubles shall destroy them, but rather to bless them by ered that none are able to give a reason for their hope, and
therebv making them fit for his future service. that much has been taught which is entirely without sup-
To- realize that such is God’s orderly $an enables us to port. Dogmas hitherto &questioned will be brought to t&e
understand the present threshing and 81 tmg among God’s test of reason. which. uneuided bv the ScriDtures. will surelv
children, and thereby to be co-workers with him, rather than lead to open h5deliti, an’d the nominal chirch systems, with
to be found 5ghting against his work, now due and in their clashing creeds, will become more and more light1 es-
ress. To realize this, is also to catch a glimpse I . of tii?i teemed, as men throw off the voke of superstition, an cl vet
goodness and justice. fail to. consult the Word of God, and to -recognize. the tiue
WOE TO ABIEL Church. A fearful storm and tempest is thus gathering and
(Isa. 29 : 1.) the condition of the mass of the nominal church, when it
fully breaks upon it, is here fitly symbolized by an “earth-
Here, again, the coming distress upon the nominal church qyake.” “The devouring fire” is an apt symbol of the cer-
is illustrated, its necessity is shown, and also God’s compas- tain destruction that in the end shall surely consume these
sion afterward. false systems.
“Woe to Ariel. to Ariel, the city where David dwelt! Add Before this fearful storm the multitude of strangers-the
ye year to year ; let them kill sacrifices.” (Ver. 1.) Jerusa- worldly-who come into the Church for respectability, society,
lem was the city of David; and as Jeruealem is sometimes business interests, popularity, etc., shall, as verse 5 shows,
(4-S) 15761
JANU~Y, 1884 ZIOh”S WATCH T O l~t’ER

be scattered like the fine dust. “And the multitude of the they have completely destroyed her stronghold, ~111 fmd only
terrible ones [tyrants--Leeser’s trans.-the leaders, priests, the wood, hay and stubble of human tradition gone, and the
rulers. or cleravl shall be as chaff that Dasseth away.” Many original bulwark impregnable. Their victory Will prove to
have kntered yhi ministry of the nom&al church for pop6 be but the delusion of a dream, when they shall hale accom-
larity, ease, money and respectability; and these lord it- over plished a work in which they are used ai the Lord’s instru-
God’s heritage, strengthen the bondage of fear, fetter thought ments.
and retard &wth in’ grace and knowledge, while they exact It is not surprising that in their blindne>+, the unfaithiul
and devour her revenues. But when these systems cease to children of God in nominal Zion mistake their most faithful
be popular and financially successful, these too will soon be friends, for enemies. Through some of his chosen ones “the
scattered like chaff. But while many of the clergy are of Lord hath a controversy with 111s people,” (Micah 6:2.) and
the stamp here described by the prophet, we rejoice to know these must obey his command-“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up
that among these, as well as among the laity, some true wheat thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their tran--
exists, yet few compared to the whole, and these are rapidly gressions.” (Isa. 58: 1.) These faithful reprovers are gen-
being separated. erally abused as enemies; and to oppose the false systems
Those who are not of the Lord’s true children shall be that fetter the true Zion, is generally looked upon as infidelity.
swept away, in the coming storm, when the Lord’s sharp But the Prophet draws the line clearly and distinctly,
threshing instruments shall have separated them as chaff from showing who are real enemies referred to. It is the multi-
the grail in this day of harvest and separation. The chaff tude of the nations not even professing to be the children of
and dust will be sneedilv removed from the chastened of the God, but who boldly, not only fight againat Zion (God’s chil-
Lord, who shall be bro;ght to the lowly and humble condi- dren, however strong or weak), but also against her munition,
tion from which they should never have departed. her bulwark-the Bible. This is just what the hosts of in-
“And the multitude of all nations that fight against Ariel, fidelity are endeavoring to do; not only to overthrow the
even all that fight against her and her musitiori [bulwark], nominal church systems (in which work they are utlrcittingly
and that distress her shall be as a dream of a night vision. It the Lord’s instruments), but they are also endeavoring to de-
shall even be as when a hungry man dreameth, &d behold he molish the Bible-the blessed fortress of truth in which even
eateth; but he waketh and his soul is empty; or as when a the weakest child of God shall find a sure refuge. To these
thirstv man dreameth and behold he drinketh, but he awak- enemies of Zion and of God, it shall even be, as described
eth a;d behold he is faint and his soul hath appetite [thirst] : in vss. 7 and 8.
So shall the multitude of all the nations be that fight against The valiant for the truth have ever been considered ene-
mount Zion.” (Vs. 7. 8.) mies by the nominal mass. Thus to Elilah it was said. “Art
In the Lord’s controversy with Zion the infidel and world- thou he that troubleth Israel?” (Kin,ns 18: 17.) He was so
I

Iv of all nations will be readv and willinrr instruments for considered because of his zeal for Jehovah and his opposi-
<er chastisement, and for the “overthrow ofu her errors. But tion to the worship of the Images of Baal. So Jesus was
though like Satan (another of his agent, whose wrath is made called bv those termed “orthodox” of his day. a perverter of
to praise Jehovah), they shall for a time seem to succeed, the peoile. Luke 23:2, 14 ; and Paul was -estce~nrd by the
yet it shall be only seemingly, for out of the nominal Zion same class “a Destilent fellow and a mover of sedition.” Acts
arises the true, stronger and better for her visitation and 24:5. Hence ill who endeavor to withstand error in its pop-
purification. And those who fought against her munition or ular forms must expect to bear the same reproach, and for a
stronghold-the Bible-and who for a time will think that time be esteemed the troublt>rs of Israel.

LIG H T IN DARKNESS
“And It was a cloud and darkness” to the Egyptians, “but it gave light by night” to Ibrarl. Exod. 14 2!).
How differently matters appear from different standpoints. waiting for another Waterloo, err It can hope to reattain d
That which reioices us as being evidence of our Lord’s pres- new epoch of equilibrium and p,ewc~b?
ence-the sepa”rating of wheat-and tares and the fall6g of “How humiliating, too, is the thought that, after all, and
some earth’s gigantic system, is to others a dark cloud. That when (as it may seem) we have all but perfected Law,
which to us is a token of dawn of the Millennial Day-the Government, and Society, the dangerous classes, and ‘dissolv-
unrest of nations-the raging of the tribulant waves of the ing forces’ are becoming more formidable than ever, tud that
sea, are to others dark clouds which put the time of blessing the ‘social revolution’-Atheistic Communism and lilhllism-
afar off. This is well illustrated in the following item clipped may yet shake to its foundations the entire system of clvillza-
from a secular naner. The writer and the world in general tie; -which modern Europe has been so slo6ly perfecting aa
look at the clo;d-from the standpoint of the Egypt&s-it the hiehest m-oduct of the Arvun Communitv of nations.
is very dark. Our readers we trust can see it from the “O ”n the ‘continent it is n; exaggeration- to say that there
standpoint of Israel. Since the storm is to scatter the powers 1s not a Cabinet, nor even a Parliament, that does not snllf
of darkness and let in the healing rays of the sun of right- gunpowder in the air, or does not quake at the thought of
eousness the sooner it comes the better. We quote as follows: secret plans and machinations of statecraft which are be-
EVIL OMENS. lieved at work in the dark, slowly or swiftly working to an
“Europe at the present time is full of signs and premoni- explosion-Governments are quietly but eagerly kccpmg watch
tions of a coming crisis. Visibly she is drifting upon another of upon each other, as If on ground which they suspect 1s under-
those cataracts of events which break the course of history; mined.
each one of them a series of rapids, down which the past has “How different this sonic twenty years age, when the great
descended into the present, and the present will plunge into Great h:xhibition of London was inaugurated.
the near future. Far be it from us to dispel the comfort- “lt was the ‘Palace of Pcitce’-theY’I’alace of all Sations,’
ing dream of that ‘Millennial’ time when the nations shall a ‘\Vorld’s Fair,’ where all peoples and races came togetlicr
rest in amity, cultivating the arts of war no more. Doubt- in peace and prosperity, making rivalry. War \\as to be
less it will come, but the world is a long way from that a thing of the past, and instead of the conquests of monarchies.
happy goal. and the flely collision of armies, there was to be a brother-
“Speaking of the thoughtful classes, it is no exaggeration hood of nations, and the only rivalry, a series of Great E\
to say, that all over Europe there is a sensation of disquie- hibitions all over the NorId.
tude,-iising in some quarters into anxiety and serious aipre- “Happy delusion ! fond dreams of statesmen and phlla11-
hension. In national as well as individual life. a vague and thropists, how rudely have they been swept away!
blind presentiment of evil has at times portended a disastrous “Nor arc the hizns of trouble all eltcrnal, or confined to
conclusion; but at present the presumptiin is not blind. There the attack of State-upon State, ot of race upon ral’c. Moat
are visible erounds for this disquietude; vet no man can tell pitiful of all is not Civilization itself upon Its trial? ‘l’hc
the exact &ape which the prevent wili issume: still lcss- fabric of society, ~111cb under the gu~diincc of Cliriatianitv
and this is the worst part of the disquietude-what will be Europe has bcel<slowly building up ai& our continent cmercch
its magnitude, or where will it end. That danger is ahead from the dark ages,-e\ en it-our boasted and bigheat achicve-
-danger to the peace of Europe, or more-hardly any in- mcnt-is not exempt from the coniili !: pcrilh-and tliough we
telligent reader of the newspapers can doubt. may recoil from ihc thought. that -061 modc>rn clvrll~atlan
“In these days, is not the thought too shocking to bc may perish as utterlv as Nlnc\ch ;III~~ U:tb\ Ion. oi the
entertained that, despite all our progress, and much vaunted Phara;hs, and of mlgll& Rome hrrs.c*lf : *till hc 1; an i<uolilnt
civilization, the closing years of the century may yet witness man who does not know that in the gti’tlrn of thr world, thelz
as bloody and momentous a contest as that by which the are no plants of percnni;ll growth---and ‘1 blind one, li he
century was ushered in ? Is it not to be told that Europe is dots not mark ho\v H ~dcly tl~c I cd !il cb. (11 dr.trnc*t 1011;Ilrrad.v
I-37 15771
(j-6) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA

allloulder.-threatening to burst forth and consume our social that supports such a conjecture. Yet hardly a whole continent,
civilization, the stately fabric of European society. or, even, as it now appears, a still larger mass of the varied
“Is it possible to conceive a greater contrast than that population of the globe ! But even assuming a well-nigh
between the Europe of 1851 and of 1883. Again we ask, universal insanity among the human race, as the explanation
What does it all mean? of the present startling phenomena, at least be it remembered
“Viewed in the most practical of fashions, what does it that it is an insanity of war, and one which is only too likely
imply and forbode? An English philosopher has suggested, to lead to and end in, a stern, and an appalling reality.“-
as a possibility, that a whole nation may become insane at Blackwood’s hfagazine.
times even as individuals do. And there is not a little in history

G R O A N ING CREATION
The Rev. Robert Laird Collier, formerly a prominent min- no philosophy can answer, except just one: Social revolution!
ister In Chicago, but now a resident of England, in a letter to “The wrongs of Ireland are venerable and heinous. England
a Chicago daily paper says, “England is panic-stricken. Dy- has been strong and confident. The wrongs of lreland have
namite, dynamite, dynamite everywhere. The queen dare not been recognized and redress promised. As far back as 1842
move from \Vindsor Castle, which is doubly guarded, and the a royal c;mmission reported io parliament in favor of certain
public for the first time in yeaxs are debarred entrance upon reforms in Ireland. Bill after bill has for fortv vears been
these royal precincts. You have heard of the arrests in Bir- introduced looking to reformatory legislation, alid -they have
ming!mm and London of the men who l>%ve been manufactur- either been defeazed or dropped.- -
ing nitro-glycerine in such large quantities, and who have been “Enelishmen own Ireland. These few thousand land owners
caught just in time to save London from wide-spread and have, up to now, exacted every farthing of rent in good years
horrible disaster. But you have not heard across 4,000 miles and bad years, and have spent their money in England. Ire-
of land and water the echo of the feelina in Eneland. The land has been villianously governed and socially ill-used. So
feeling is very complex. The public p&s suppresses this to the end, would Ireland have been governed and ill-used had
feelme. as it deems. in the interest of social order. All sober- she not made her voice heard in the land. But really the
mind& persons look upon this Fenian plot to carry on assas- Irish question, momentous as dvnamite is causing it to be,
sination wide-spread, with detestation and horror. The full is but-a small factor in this general European -revolution:
power and penalty of the law must be used and enforced. All “Within gun’s reach of Buckingham palace men and women
this goes without saving. But the dominant conviction is that are dying not figuratively, but actually-of starvation. What
we aie just at the beginning of a European political and social redress have the people? How can they make themselves
revolution. The old rcaime is drawing to its close. It is heard? Parliament is the legislature of the rich, and men who
given out, that never again will a cl-o& be permitted to be oppose these venerable wickednesses are counted as eccentric, a5
placed upon a head in Europe. Men who are sober and agitators, as dangerous.
prophetic as was Isaiah, solemn and as pathetic as was Jere- “There is no newsDaDer of influence in London, if in Ena-
miah, call the world to order, ‘Halt!’ All along the lines these land, that raises its h&ver against these legislative wrong:.
men are shouting ‘Halt!’ The tongues of the platform, and the press, and the pulpit
“Education, steam, electricity have introduced man to man are bribed by social considerations.
all over Europe. Man is in solemn conclave. In London- “Dynamite is horrible. Assassination hideous. These are
in its streets, its clubs, its galleries, among all sections of the ways that men are making themselves heard. The press,
society, men arc propounding questions in social statics that the platform, the pulpit are closed to their cause.”

THE MANNER O F THE SECOND ADVENT

To all who love and look for our Lord’s appearing, it is a spiritual body is not compodcd of flesh met bones. (Luke
of utmost importance to be acquainted with the Scripture 24:39.) It is a spiritual body, and “that which is born of tht:
teaching as to the manner of his coming, that we may know spirit is spirit.” But as to what a spiritual body is made of,
how to expect him, rememberina that Israel after the flesh we know not. “It doth not yet appear what we shall be; but
stumbled over his first advent, because they had false ideas we shall be like him,,’ Christ. ( 1 John 3 :2.)
of the manner of his coming. Briefly stated, we believe the Angels are spiritual bodies. Christ was raised from the
Scriptures to teach that Christ will not again as at the first dead a spiritual body, This was his second birth. First, he
advent appear in the flesh; for says P&l, (2 Cor. 5: 16) was born of the fle& a fleshly body-for, “as the children
“Thoueh we have known Christ after the flesh. vet now hence- are partakers of flesh and blood, He also himself likewise took
forth know we him [so] no more.” He is ‘r&w the highly part of the same.” (Heb. 2: 14.) He was “Put to death in
exalted spiritual being-a spiritual body (Phil. 2:Q; 1 20;. the flesh but quickened [made alive] it& the Spirit.” He was
15:44) the exDress image of the Father’s Derson.” (Heb. 1:3.) raised a sDiritua1 bodv. This resurrection was his second
We must not-expect him then to reappea; in the body which birth. He ‘was the “flr&~or~ from the dead,” “the first-born
he took for sacrifice, but in his glorious body. among many brethren.” The church are those brethren and
As a basis then for further investigation, we will inquire, will have a second birth of the same kind as his-to spiritual
What are spiritual bodies-what powers are theirs, and by bodies by the resurrection, when we shall arise in his likeness
what laws are they governed? We are here met by the 06 -being made “Like unto Christ’s glorious body.” But, this
iection-We have no right to Drv into the hidden thines of second birth must be preceded by a begetting of the spirit-
God; and, “Eye hat11 n’ot seen: xior ear heard; neither -have conversion-just as suiely as a birth of the flesh is preceeded
entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath bv a beeettine of the flesh. When begotten of the flesh we
DreDared for them that love him.” To both of these DroDosi- aie berg of t%e flesh in the likeness 03 the first Adam, the
iion’s we assent, but believe we cannot find out by &ulying earthly; but when begotten of the spirit at conversion, and
God’s Word-and our investieation will be confined to it- born of the sDirit in the resurrection, we shall be in the
what he has not revealed. The above quotation of scripture likeness of -th;‘e heavenly, the second Adam. “As we have
( 1 Cor. 2 :Y) refers to the natural or carnal man, and by borne the image 01 the earthly we shall also bear the image
reading it, in connection with the three verses following, the of the heavenly.” (1 Cor. 15:49.)
objection vanishes; for, says the apostle, “God hath revealed By examining facts recorded of angels, and of Christ after
them unto us by his Spirit,” which was given to us “that we his resurrection we may gain some general information with
might know the things that are freely given unto us of God;” regard to sDiritua1 bodies: First we learn that angels can
and in the last clause of v. 13, he gives us the rule by which be; and frequently are present, yet invisible: “The angel of
we may know, viz: “Comparing spiritual things with spirit- the Lord encampeth round about them that are his, and de-
ual.” We are very apt to change this rule and compare livereth them;” and “Are they not all ministering spirits,
spiritual things with natural, and thus get darkness instead sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salva-
of light. Let us, then, use the Apostle’s rule. tion P” (Heb. 1: 14.) Balaam’s ass saw the angel on the w&v.
There is a spiritual bodv as well as a natural body; a (Num. 22:23.) ’
heavenly as well- as an earthly body, a celestial as well as a Second, angels can and have appeared as men. The Lord
terrestial. They are distinct and separate. ( 1 Cor. 15:28-48.) and two aneels appeared as men to Abraham, who had supper
We know what the fleshly-natural body is, for we now prepared f& the& of which they ate. (Gen. 18.) An angel
have such; it is flesh, blood -and bones. “That which is born aDDeared to Gideon as a man. but afterward made himself
of the flesh is flesh.” and since there are two kinds of bodies. kKwn. (Judges 6:12, 22.) An angel appeared to Samson’s
we know the spiritual must be different, and Jesus said that mother and father; they thought him a man until he ascended
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up to heaven in the flame of the altar. (Judges 13:20, 21.) prophecy which shines as a light in a dark place (2 Pet. 1: 19))
Third, spiritual bodies are really bright and glorious in shall, because of its light, not be in darkness that that dav
their normal condition : The countenance of the angel who should overtake them as a thief. (1 Thes. 5:2-4.)
rolled away the stone from the sepulchre “was like lightning.” He comes “ as a thief” for the church-the waiting virgins;
(Mat. 28:3.) Daniel in a vision saw a spiritual body whose both them “that sleep in Jesus” and those “who are alive
eyes were as lamps of fire, his countenance as the lightning, and remain.” This athering time at his appearing is the
his arms and feet like in color to polished brass, hrs voice harvest time of the 8 ospel Age, and as in the harvest of the
as the voice of a multitude; before him Daniel fell as a dead Jewish Age, the prepared ones were gathered out to become
man. (Daniel 10 :6.) Saul of Tarsus saw Christ’s nlorious coworkers with the Lord in introducing the new dispensation
body. ‘It shone above the brightness of the sun at noonday. of the Gospel Ape, so those who are found readv and watchine
Saul lost his sight and fell to the ground. (Acts 26: 13; 1 Cor. at his second Appearing, shall likewise disce& his presenci
15:8.) and become coworkers with him in introducing the new dis-
Thus we find spiritual bodies truly glorious; yet without pensation of the Millennial Age. And not only are these
a miracle, either by the opening of our eyes to see them, or to be coworkers in introducing the new dispensation, but as
their appearing in the flesh as men they are invisible. This soon as thev learn of the special work of the hour, they are
conclusron is further confirmed when we examine the more engaged wi& him in comnletinrr the harvest work.
minute details connected with these manifestations. The Lord -But in all this change-of d&pensation the world will go
was seen of Saul alone, “the men that journeyed with him on as usual. Thev will sav. “Where is the uromise of his
stood speechless, hearing a voice, but see&g no man.” (Acts coming (Greek-pa;ou.sia-p&&noe) ; for since ‘the fathers fell
9 : 7. ) The men that were with Daniel did not see the nlorious asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning.”
bein& he describes, but a great fear fell on them and t’ley ran (2 Pet. 3:4.)
and -hid themselves. (Da< 10:7.) Again, this same glorious The second advent, like the first, covers a period of time,
being declares: (Daniel 10: 13) “The prince of Persia with- and is not the event of a moment. The first lasted nearly
stood me one and twenty days.” “Daniel, the man greatly be- thirty-four years. The second advent, as we have seen. lasts
loved” of the Lord, falls as dead before this one whom much longer. It includes the millennial reign, and as prophecy
Persia’s mince withstands one and twentv davs! How is foretold the object, manner, etc., of the first advent, so it
this? &rely he did not appear in glory t’, the” prince. No, also covers all the prominent features of the second adrcnt
either he was invisibly present with him, or else he appeared and reign. Christ comes to reign-must reign until he has
a8 a man. put down all enemies ; the last being death. ( 1 Cor. 15 : 25,26. )
Christ is a spiritual body since his resurrection. During In the application of prophecy to the events of the first
the forty days of his presence before ascension, he appeared advent, we recognize order. Christ must be the “chikl born
some seven or eight times to his disciples; where was he the and son given,“- before “the mnn of sorrows and acquainted
remainder of the time? Present, but invisible. Notice, also, with grief.” He must dae before he could rzse from the dead,
that in each instance he is said to have appeared, or he etc. So also in studvine nronhecv referring to the second
showed himself, language never used of him before his change advent we must recogiizg &de;. w’e must judge of the order
from a natural to a spiritual body;. now, as angels had done, somewhat by the character of the event. As tlie&fe is the
he appeared. Not only so, but he appeared in different bodies; glory of the husband, so the Bride’is the glorv of Chri&‘for
as the gardener to Mary; “after that, he appeared to the two we are to be “partakers of the glory that-shall be revealed.”
disciples as they went into the country” (Mark 16:12.) ; (1 Pet. 5: 1. 10) : and as the “alorv shall be revealed in us.”
afterwards he appeared in a body, either the same or like the (Ram. 8 : 18)) we know that Christ could not come in the
one crucified, having the marks of the spear and the nails. glory of his kingdom [church] until he hss first gathered
“He came and stood in their midst, the doors being shut.” it from the world. And in harmony wit11 this thought, we
On these various occasions he appeared and talked with them, read-“When ile shsll appear, we also shnll appear with him
then vanished out of their sight. He came and went, as in- in glory.” (Col. 3 :4.)
visibly as the wind; and they could not tell whence he came The Prophets foretold the sufferings of Christ [hcnd and
nor whither he went. “So is erery one that is born of the body] and the glory that should follow. If the suffcrin.gs
Spirit.” (John 3 :8.) When we are born of the Spirit (at were of the whole body, so is the gloq; we suffer with hrm
the resurrection) we can do so also. All spiritual beings that we mav be also “alorificd tocetlrcr.” (Rom. 8: 17.) “Enocb
exhibit this same power. But Jesus said: “Handle me, for prophesied.” saying--“The Lord comet11 u&h ten thousand of
a spirit [pneuma] hath not flesh. and bones, as ye see me his saints.” I Jude 14.), Acain. v
we read-“The Lord mvd God
have,” and he ate with them. True, I believe it. So did shall come and aZE the saints ?(;ith thee.” (Zech. l-1:.5) Thus
the angels [pneuma Heb. 1:7] appear as men in flesh and we learn that when he appears in glory we arc with him, and
bones, and they ate also; their spiritual bodies did not eat, of course, we must be gathered to meet him before thnt.
nor were they- flesh and bones, but the body in which they We have further evidence to offer nrovinp thst hr comes
nvveared was flesh and bones, and it ate. The discinles did unknown to the world; but attempt to answer t,hc two sup-
not see Christ’s glorious spiritual body, but they saw’ him as uosed obiections first. viz: “This same Jesus shsll so ronw in
he appeared in a fleshly body. like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven,” (Acts 1: 11) .
Paul teaches us distinctlv that Christ was raised from the and “The Lord himself shall descend from heaven with n
dead a life-giving spirit [p&uma, the same word used by our shout, with the voice of the archangel and the trump of God;
Lord.1 (1 Cor. 15:44. 45.) But where did he tret the various and the dead. in Christ shall rise.” (1 Thcs. 4: 16.) These
bodies in which he appeared? I cannot tell you; but I believe, texts are supposed to teach that Christ will come in a nlnnnrr
and you do also, other things which we cannot understand. visible to every eye, while the air is rent wit11 the blxst of
I cannot understand how that grain of wheat grows. Yet the archangel’s trumpet; at which. amid reeling tomhstoncs
I know that it grows. I know not how Christ turned the and opening graves the dead will come forth. It ccrtninly
water into wine, ‘br raised the dead, yet I believe that he did has that appearance on the surface. snd doubtlccs wns not
these thines. Can vou tell me where he eot the clothes he intended to be rightly understood until due; but look at it
wore after-his resuriection? “They parted %is raiment among again ; would that be coming in lil;e mannrr ss lhrr v\\-
them, and for his vesture they cast lots”-the old were gone, him go7 He did not go with the sounding nf a trnmpct and
and the linen clothes lay in the sepulchre. Is it more difficult outward demonstration. It doe< not say ?/OIL sltnll SW him
for spiritual beings, with their powers, to create a covering of coming nor that an?, ooze would see, but-lie slmll so coinc
flesh than a covering of cloth? No; the same power can and When IIC arrives it will be privstrly. Hc cnnws to pnthcr sntl
did do both. to set up his kingdom. He comes to be glorified in his saint;
Thus we have found Christ’s spiritual body like those of in that dnr. (2 Thes. 1 :lO.) Tl lc world saw him not. after
angels, glorious, yet invisible to mortals, with power to mani- his rcsurr&tidn ; tltcy did not FCC him ascend. And we I F
fest the glory, or appear as a man, or in any form he rnty member Chat Jesus said. “Yet n little while and t,he worlrl
choose. In the resurrection we shall be like the angels in qceth mc no more, but ye set mc *’ (John 16: 16.)
this respect, and “like unto Christ’s nlorious bodv.” Now What, then, does the trumpet mean, if there is to be no
bearing in mind that “though we have known Chris< after the open drmonstration? Let us sec. The church is to bc rc-
flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more,” after the warded “at the resurrection” : it surclv will not br rrwardc~l
flesh, with what we have learned of the powers of that spiritual or resurrrcted. more than once; Iwnrc’ we cnnrlndc that the
body, we are now prepared to understand other statements “Trump of God” (1 Thes. 4: 16) and the “Last Trump” (1 Cnr
relating to the manner of the second advent. 15:52), are the same, differently c\-pressed: the ssmc event<
To John, on Patmos, Jesus said, “Behold I come as a thief: are mentioned as ocrurring at cnrh, viz: the rrsurrrctinn nnd
blessed is he that watcheth and .keepeth his garments” ctcl reward of the ssints. And for tlic sirrnc rcsqnn wc hclicv~~
(Rev. 16 : 15.) He comes secretlv and unknown to the world fhc “Trump of God” and “T,nqt TI nmp” to lw the “SV\-PII~~I
but those believers who are taki”ng heed to the sure word of Trump” of Rev. si : 15-13 TJntlvr it ;llw the tlc~~tl arc jn~l~‘~~~I
[5i9]
(7) ZION’S WATCH TOWER

and the prophets and saints rewarded. Then the “Seventh (hlatt. 13.) “The harvest is the end of the world.” [aion,
Trump” is the “Trump of God.” and the “Last Trump.” rice].. “ln the time of harvest I will say unto the reapers,
There is a series of these trumpets evidently the same in ‘Gather together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to
kind. but what? “The seventh aniel Rounded.,’ A sound on burn them; but gather the wheat into my barn.’ ”
the air? So. no more than the six which meceded it. Thev Notice, this harvest is the end of this age, yet, like the
are each s&l to sound, and Sir Isaac Newton, Clark, a&l one ending the Jewish age, it is a period of time,-“In the
all commentators of note agree that five or six of these time of harvest.” Secondly, there is order-“gather first the
trumpets are in the Da&. Thev have been fulfilled in events tares.” There must come a time, then, in the end of this
upon’ the earth, eacli coveringUa period of time. They cer- age, when the reapers will be doing some sort of separating
tainly must all sound before the resurrection. for that is work in the church. That we are now in this harvest we
under the seventh. have abundant proof, and pet, as in the harvest of the Jewish
Tf the seventh trump were to make a sound on the air, it age, the mass of the church and the world are whollv uncon-
would be out of harmony with the other six of the series. sCious of it. The separating work is accomplished”in both
That it covers “the great day of his wrath,” the time of cases by the sharp sickle of truth and the spirit of sacrifice.
judgments upon the k;‘ngdoms”of the world and of the pour- Some may have confounded these remarks concerning the
ing out of the “seven vials” of God’s wrath. and the “time presence of Christ as a spiritual being with the presence
of‘ trouble such as was not since there was 8. nation” seems of the SDirit of Christ: but thev are auite distinct. The
more than probable, for we are told in the same sentence of latter ne;er left the chhrch: consequen& in that sense he
the wrath of God roming on the nations. could not “come again.” Of his presence by his spirit he
\\‘e see. then, that the sounding of the trumpets, and so said : “Lo, I am with vou alwavs. even unto the end of the
coming in like manner, do not ronflict but rather add force world.” tie refer to “the per&nil presence, which did go
to the fact that he comes “unawares,” “as a thief” and steals away, and will come again,--a spiritual body. (John 14:3.)
away from the world his treasure, his jewels. Remember The Greek word parousia frequently translated coming-
too that this is Christ, the spiritual body, that could not be invariably signifies personal presence, as having come, ar-
seen without a miracle, that was present yet unseen during rived, and never signifies to be on the way, as we use the
thirtr-three days after his resurrection. word coming. This fact is recognized by many who are look-
The world will not see the saints when gathered or gather- ing for the Lord, but the error under which the Church in
ing. When changed (in the twinkling of an eye) to spiritual general is laboring, is that of supposing that presence implies
bodies, like unto Christ’s glorious body, they will be as in- sight-manifestation-appearance. In thr Greek. however.
risible as he and as anrrels. The world will not see the graves other words are used to express revelation, appearing, and
open and the tombsto& thrown down, for a spiritual’ body manifestation, viz. : phaneroo-rendered shall appear in “when
is not of the rarth, earthy. Rut do not forget that only he shall appear”-and apokalupsis-rendered, shall be revealed.
the church is to 1,~ raiscrl spiritual bodies. All others are (2 Thes. 1:7.) “When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed.”
to hare a restitution, a restoration to human perfection. But we have Christ’s own words to prove that he will be
PRESENCE OF OHRIST BBFORE RAPTURE OF CHURCH nresent in the world. and the world ~111 know not of it. In
Christ’s personal presence and ministry of three and a i\latt. 24:37, we read: “As the days of Noah were, so shall
half years at the first advent, he called a harvest. It was also the parousia (presence) of the Son of Man he.” The
the fiarresting of the Jewish age. Christ was present as presence of Christ is not compared to the flood, but to the
the chief reaDer. and his disciDles as under-reaDers. Their days of Noah, the days that were before the flood, as verse
work was the gathering of wheat into the high& or Gospel 38 shows; as then they ate, drank, married, etr., and knew
diqpensation. That harvest was the end of that age. Jesus not, so shall also the presence of the Son of Man br. The
said to his disciples, “Lift up your eyes and look on the resemblance here mentioned is that of not knowi~7g----th~y will
fields, for they are white already to harvest,” “I sent you not lcnow of the presence of Christ. They may have been
to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labor; other men have wicked then, doubtless were, and may be similarly wirkrd
labored [the Drophets] and ve are entered into their labors” now, in his hresence, but wickedness is’ not the poin‘t of rom-
(John 4:38).- That work w& not general, nor for the world. parison. As then they ate, drank, married-proper cnouph
Jesus confined their labors to Judea. and the work to them things to be doing, not sinful, so shall it be in Christ’s
did not entirely cease until the end oi their harvest A. D. 70. presence, they will attend to the usual avocations of life
But after his resurre&ion .Tesus sent the disciples to “prearh unconscious of his presence, the harvest and change of dis-
the Gospel to every nation.” But this was no longer a harvest- Densation. Now, look at Luke 17:26. “-4s it was in the
ing but a seed sowing: Paul plants, Apollos waters, God hays of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of
gives increase, etc. But there is to be a harvest in the end man.” Verse 27 tells how it was in the davs of Noah; the-y
of this aEe, as illztstlated in the Darable of the tares and were eating, drinking, marrying, etc. “So {hall it be & tKe
wheat, an‘;1 taught in the explanation of the same. Notice daysr of the Son of Man.” Surely the days of the Son of
that both wheat and tares are in the kingdom of heaven-the Man are not before his days, any more than the days of Henry
church-and that this parable, as also The other six of the Clay could be days before he was born. No, the more we
series, refers not to the non-professing world, but to two examine, the more we are ronvinced that the world will go
classes in the church. on as usual. and know not, until “the harvest is past, the
The Son of Man planted the church pure, good seed. Dnr- summer ended,” and they are not in the ark, nor *with the
ing the days of the Apostles there were special “gifts of the little flock “accounted worthy to escape the great tribulation.”
Spirit” such as “discerning of sr’irits,” etc., by which they Watch therefore and take heed to the sure word of prophecy
w&e able to prevent tares get&g in among- the whe&- as unto a light in a dark place, that knowing of his presence
hypocrites getting into the church, (Instance 1 Cor. 5 :3.- and the changes then due, .you may be found in harmony with
“Simon Magus “-“Ananiaa and Sapphira,” etc.), but when the king, working wisely In his vineyard, that you and your
the apostles were dead, “while men slept”-the enemy began labor may be approved of him.
to sow tares amonn the wheat. Paul declares that the mvsterv Forget not the Master’s words: “Take heed to yourselves,
of iniquity had b&m to work even in his day. Now the? lest at anv time vour hearts be overcharged with surfeiting,
” Y

grow side by side in all churches. Shall we separate them. and drunkenness, and cares of this life, a<d so that day co&e
Lord? No; we might make some mistakes and pull up wheat upon you unaware. For as a snare shall it come on all them
and leave tares. “Let hoth grow together until the Ilwaest.” that dwell on the face of the whole earth. (Luke 21:34-30.1

IS ALL REALLY HIS?

Men and women sing, “My body, soul and spirit, Jesus, education shall be surh as shall most serve the purpose of
1 give to Thee,” and yet we see them living to themselves; your God? Are your household arrangements surh that they
they sing, “Were the whole realm of nature mine. t,hnt were are elastic when the work of God calls for a change of meal-
a present far too small,” and yet the offering which they make times, etc.? Ia your position in societv the Lord’s to 1~~used
to God is the merest fraction of their possessions. Reader, or neglected just as it serves God’s purpose? Do you make
how much do you give to the Lord? Have you ever taken a practice of being faithful to those in your own position in
the position of being yourself the Lord’s, and therefore all you life. letting them clearly see that God is first with you, caring
have His property? Then how much is it consistent for you nothing for the contempt in which they hold you? Is your
to appropriate to the Lord? Is your business the T,ord’s, money the Lord’s so that you practice the strictest economy
do you conduct it for Him or for the making of a name and in board, lodging, clothing and traveling, that you may have
a position for yoursrlf? Do ou train your rhildren for the all the rest for Jesus? If not. are you not keeping back
Lord, and carr your children Por the Lord, and care that their “part of the price?“-#elected.
[ 6803
 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Ques. Please explain Luke 12:-l, 5. “lt lb a faithful saymy, For if we be dead with him, we
das. These words are addressed to the “friends” of Jesus, shall also live with him.” (2 Tim. 2:11, 12.) “A3 many
to those who believe in a future existence secured through as are led bv the Suirit of God. thev are the sons of God;” and
Jesus, the life-giver. The killing of the body represents the “The Spirit”itself Leareth witness &it11 our spirit that we are
loss of the present measure of life, but casting into Gehenna the children of God.” [i. e., our willingness to suffer with
(translated hell) represents utter destruction and extinction. Christ proves our harmony with the Spirit of God, thus prov-
Because of God’s favor all are redeemed from the first or 1ng that we are the children of God.] “And if children, then
Adamic death, and those who believe and appreciate this will heirs-heirs of God and Joint 11cirs wit11 Christ; if so be that
realize that the present spark of existence is as nothing com- we snffer with him, that we may be ai\o glorified togethpr.
pared to the future life made possible through our Lord and For . . . the sufferings of this”present time are not Worthy
kedeemer. Therefore such shoild lightly esieem the present to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in UX”
life and fear not to lose it in any righteous cause. Should (Rom. 8:14, 16, 17, 18.)
such circumstances arise, as thev do. where the favor of men “And we know that all things work together for good to
and the welfare of this’ preseni life on the one side, stand tl1em that love God, to them wco are call&l accortllng to 1115
onDosed to the will of God on the other. we should seek God’s purpose.” (v. 28. ) “\I7110 shall separate u9 from the love of
fi;or at any cost, knowing that “in his favor is life” (ha. Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress or persecntion, or fam-
30 :5), the future existence, and that in his hands is the power 1nr, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? S?$, in all these thing?
of utter extinction. the “second death” represented here by we are more than conquerors througi1 him that loved 115. For
&henna. , . . neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities,
Ques. A brother writes saying, “I find so few who can nor powers, nor things present. nor things to come, nor height,
or will receive the truth, or what seems such to me, that nor depth, nor any other creat11re, sl1all be able to separate
I am left to do mv thinking and studying almost alone. us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Orthodoxy, so called, has leveled its guhs at me, and in (vs. 35-39.) “The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and
the church where I was honored and looked after mv name his ears are open unto their prayers. -4nti wl10 is he that will
has been cast out. But there is something of m&e im- harm you if ye be followers of that which is good? But if
portance to me than this. It is the question, I;( my experience ye suffer for righteousness sake, happy are ye, and be not
as an outcast in this nresent evil world fitting me for the afraid of their terror, neither be troubled.” 1 Pet. 3: 12-14.
Master’s service? I can bear this, if sure th& I will not For all the temptkd and tried ones-the faithful followers
be rejected also by the Master in the gathering of his jewels. of our Lord-our Fatl1er’s Kord is f11il of cheering and heip-
Fears sometimes arise within me that I have caught at the ful promises, which we should often call to mind for needed
shadow and missed the substance, and that would be loss strengthening and encouragement.
indeed. Help me, if you can, to answer to this question in Ques. Cannot the real church of Cllrist be identified? that
harmony with Scripture. Another question, Think you that is, Can we not tell where to t11aw the lines? Amain. Can a
the world can see the beauties set forth in the Scriptures? man be in the church of Christ anti not bc in Ch&t?
Ans. Unquestionably the world will in the coming age see Ans. The church of Christ in its widest sense inclltdes ail
much beauty in Scripture; for much of it is devoted to nat- believers in the “redemption througll his blood.” In a more
ural or earthly things, and it abounds in glorious earthly restricted sense it is such of the above a$ have made a core-
promises : and even now some who are not consecrated see nant to sacrifice earthly interests for heavenly interests. And
&uch beauty in God’s grand and benevolent plans. So, then, in the most restricted sense it is such onl,v of this last class
the fact that vou see in God’s character and nlan that which IIS fulfill their covenant and accomplish the sarrifire. who con-
is grand and “good is not a sufficient evidenci that you will stitute THE CHURCI~ which is HIS BODY (Coi. i :21) otherwise
be among his kwels. Not all who believe in him and pray to termed “The Bride the Lamb’s wife.” (Rev. Pi :9. )
him-“Not every one that saith. Lord, Lord. shall enter ‘into Each of us mav definitelv decide whetl1rr W C ha IX taken
the ki~lgdom o< heaven, but he’ that doeth ‘the mill of my the first two of t&se nt,eps. “and whether we are now fnk~rrg
Father which is in heaven.” (Matt. 7:21.) God’s will for this the third. We may know of each other’s position ~eparding
Gospel age is to select such as believe his promises for the the first two steps, by profession, and fr11it; hut regarding
future so fully that they will give up the present in sacrtfice the last step while we should know absolutely concerning
to obtain it. self, we should use great care not to decide without pos1tivc
The fact that you have already sacrificed one of your proof that any who have taken the two precceding steps. arc
dearest treasures-“a good name” for the sake of your love of not taking the last also: for there may be many circ11m-
the Lord and of his %rd marks you as having become a par- stances of which we may be ignorant. to obscure from our sight
taker of the Master’s sDirit: for no man will sacrifice for the fruit and evidences of their sacrifice, known only to God
such things without ass&a&e from on high. Peter said, “Be- and themselves.
loved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is During this age those who belong to any of these claqs~s
to trv vou as though some strange thing happened unto you. are reckoned as in the church. The church nominal is COXII-
But iej’bice, inasm&h as ye are -partakers ifA Christ’s su%er- posed not only of these genuine classes. b11t ai90 of hypocrites
ings; that when his glory shall be revealed ye may be glad also The harvest is the time for senaratinrr anti ,nathering tile
with exceeding iov. If ye be reproached for the name of grain, and then each class of thi genui;le a111 ‘be sepafatcd.
Christ, happy &-6 ye, for <he spirit bf glory and of God resteth In the day when the Lord shall make 11~ his jetoels, he will
upon you. . . . But let none of you suffer as an evil gather such as have comz&tcrE the covenant of sacrifice (PRR.
doer. or as a busy-body in other men’s matters. Pet if any X0:5), and these only will constitute “THE CHIJRCH whic,h is
man suffer as a Christian [for his adherence to the doctrines his RODY."
of Christ1 let him veiorifv I God on this behalf.” (1 Peter During the Millennial age, there will still be n citrcrch in
4:12-l&) - the wori&-a church of BEL~TRR in “the redemption which 1~
We hope that the Spirit of God may thus rest upon you in Christ .Jesus” ; and under the hirsscd and rniightcning influ-
to such an extent as to cause YOU to suffer the loss of ntanu ences of the reign of Ci1rist, that cl111rc,l1will spread ;1nd In-
other things once counted preiious, when you looked at thi crease and bring the entirc~woriti under the inilurncr of the
things that are seen. Remember when the Lord marked out truths then due. And the knowicdecL of the T,ord si~aii fill
Paul for special favor and special service how he said of him. the whole earth.
“I will shbw him how great things he must suffer for my Ques. When in Rev. 22.9, the angel said to do1111wiio wdi
name’s sake.” (Acts 9: 16.) Mav the Lord also show dailv ahout to worship, him: “Pee thou do 1t not. for I am thy fri-
both you and me and all that a& in Christ Jesus how mu& low servant ani of thy brethren the prophets,” does ii not
more-it is our privilege to suffer for his sake! prove that the prophets who died became angels, and that thla
If, dear brother. vou desire evidences of vour acccotable- angel who talked with ,Jobn was one of them?
ness with God, they are found in what he per”mits you to suf- Ans. No. the book of Revelation IS a symbolic book, and
fer for his and for his truth’s sake. Increase the sacrifice as shown in this Iournal snme time since, both John and the
daily, and you increase the proof daily that you are his; and angel reprcsevt cinss~s in the rliurch now living. ,John rrp-
such as are his he gathers. resents ihe disciples living at tl1c time ti1at tilc‘scencs of the
If you are suffering with him, and like him for the Millennial age hegin to 11nfoiti at the second prcsorcc of Jesus,
truth’s sake, you have many exceeding great and precious as was implied in .Jrsus’ word* concerning John, applicable not
promises. Some of these read as follows: to John h>mself, but to the rlasq whom ‘he rcp&&ts in licv-
“Blessed are ye when men shall revile you and persecute elation-“If I wiil that lie In?-r?/ TILT. 1 COW-." (Jno. ‘21 .ef 1
you, and shall say all manner of evil agamst you FALSELY While John represents tl1c c1;tirr co111p;\ny of i1v1nc saints’,
FOB M Y SAKE. Rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your the angel (mcsscnger) wbn sbowe’d tiir ihl~lgs to .Tnl;n, rcpre-
reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets which sentrd those of the John calnsn w110 arca 11*ctl as God’s instru-
were before you.” (Matt. 5:11, 12.) n1cntq in drawing attention to the c~~1111ng glnr>-, and causing
[581]
 ZION’S IVATCH TOWElK PITTSBURGH, PA.

all of the John class to set them with the eye of faith. As the true messengers of God will treat such honor. They will
John fell down to worship the messenger so there is always not be puffed up and receive the homage and praise, but will
a danger that human weakness in the John class might lead say, All wisdom comes from God, worship not us but Him. We
some of them to over-esteem, and almost worship those through are your brethren and fellore-servants, and fellow-servants
whom God has been pleased to send them a knowledge of his with the prophets, and with all that keep the sayings of God-
plans. worship God.
The nrtion and words of the angel, show the way in which

BE TRUE TO GOD
?l’hq hurt1 the praise of men more than the praise of God.”
The want of moral honesty is the p11nnpa1 impediment to cause them to remain through life in a false and hvpocriti-
.*
the progress of religious truth now, as in the days of the cal position-their life a con%nuous lie.
Nazarene. Many who heard him speak and beheld his prodi- Christ said to his discinles. “Ye are the salt of the earth:
gies. were convinced of the truth of his claims as a teacher but if the salt has lost it; savor, it is fit for nothing but t6
“sent from God”; but his doctrines so conflicted with the be cast out and trodden under foot.” Here we have the es-
popular customs that they rould be accepted only at the cost timate Jesus placed upon those Christians who suppress their
of social position. The In tear&/ of his hearers was nut to convictions for the sake of popularity-He compares them to
the test; and the honest among ihem made the requisiie sac- a man who lights a candle and puts it under a cover to con-
rifice, and publicly accepted his teaching; but those who loved ceal its light. He says, “Woe unto you when all men speak
the praise of men more than the approbation of God, sup- well of you; so did the fathers of the false prophets.” “Ye
pressed their convictions, and hypocritically adhered to the are they who justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth
popular multitude. It is just so now in regard to all at- your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men
temnts to reform the absurd and conflicting creedal svstems is abomination in the sight of God.” (Luke 10:15.) But to
of our age. A large majority of modern preachers, and”of the those who are ostracised for defending the truth he says,
intelligent lav members of the churches. are as fullv con- “Blessed are ye when men shall hate and revile you, scpa.rate
vinced-of the”fallary of modern theology, and the imp*otenry you from their company, and cast out your name as evil for
of modern pulpits in reforming the world, as the writer; but the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice, for great is your reward in
their love of popularity and ease, and lack of trust in God, heaven.” D. WINDER.

CHRIST’S GLORY IN HIS SAINTS

“He shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe.“--2 Thess. 1 :lO.
It IS necessary to remember the double meaning of that inaccessible light, is manifested forth, then will all that love
word “glorify.” Christ glorifies us by making us glorious. him shine forth, too. The light that was hidden below the
He sheds radiance and lustre from himself unon us. We obscuration and limitations of flesh-the life that was almost
glorify Christ by the exhibition of that reflected and derived smothered by this animal and natural life-the life that was
light. If we help any dim eye to apprehend his goodness and only faint and dim while in the world-that life shall blaze
truth, his perfect fairness and infinite beauty, then we glorify out free from all obscuritv and limitations, and with him be
God. In this latter sense the word is employed here where the manifested in glory. ”
apostle is speaking about the wonderful things that are to ac- The present is like a dark lantern with the slide scarcely
companv that great event. the coming of Jesus Christ. Like up at all, while that to which we are looking forward, is like
the eastern sun’ rising above the horizon, and compassed with the same lantern with the slide up. This is a wonderful
rose-tinted clouds that derive all their lustre and color from metaphor in which the Master himself puts it-“Then shall
his brightness, he in the midst of thousands of them that the righteous blaze out like the sun in the kingdom of the
love and serve him, shall pour out a flood of glory upon the Father.” You have seen the thing our Lord refers to, Some
waiting and wondering world. cloudy and dark day, with no color in the grass and flowers,
He shall come to be recognized as glorious, and to mani- the birds all silent, everything cold and gloomy, all at once
fest forth his glory in his”saints, a<d to be wondered at some gust of wind or some thinning of the air canopy comes,
amongst all them that believe, Such shall be the illustrious and out streams the glad light, and everything awakens,
beauty and strange perfectness of character with which scents and sounds; music of the birds, the grass gleams green
Christ’s servants shali be arrayed at his manifestation, that again, and the waves of the sea glance in the sun as it blazes
all the universe looking at them will receive a loftier im- out upon them. So says Christ-the hidden light we carry
pression of what Chris; himself is. That is the thought of shall gleam out in its true properties.
the passage put into more modern though far weaker words. All that we are in the depths of our desire, and the im-
The idea that runs all through the New Testament is this- perfect but often infinite aspirations of our better selves-all
that so absolutely and indissglublv one are Christ and Chris- that we are, shall blaze forth before all that are there to look.
tian people that- his destiny is their destiny and his cbar- In the manifestation of the sons of God, the depths of their
acter their character. There is a time coming when all who nature shall be brought visibly to all men, like the depths of
are in Christ shall be manifested in glory before the universe some pure sea where you can behold the sun at the bottom
as part of the manifestation of Jesus Christ. When the hid- sparkling upon every little bit of rock that may lie there.-
dm Christ, that is now lost in the blaze-the privary of that 9 lexander Mclaren.

POWER OF CHRIST’S LOVE

\\hcn St. Paul appeared so entranced and overmastered by flower, in every star, in every mountain and hill and valley, in
the claims of the Gospel that some accused him of being be- the purple clouds and in the deep-voiced sea-these are its
CIde himself, this, you*remember, was the only explanati& he articulate voices. And if you recall us from nature to the
offered for his sniritual intensitv: “For the love of Christ Bible, even there we take a broader range than you do.
ronqtraineth us, because we thus judge, that if one died for In the life and example of Christ in his works of mercy
all, then all died.” “Zf one died for all.” Oh, this is the fact and beneficience, and in the gracious words that proceeded out
in the historv of Jesus Christ that touches the heart and of his mouth, we find the highest exhibition of divine love,
draws it to G*od’ The life of Christ inspires us; the example Isn’t it somewhat narrow in Paul to shut himself up so close-
of Christ elevates us; the teachings of Christ convict us; but ly to the cross for the source of his inspiration and enthusi-
beyond all things else, it is the death of Christ that draws us. asm ? Isn’t it somewhat narrow in you to insist on the death
-and yet here is a point where evangelical religion finds a of Christ on Calvary as the great motive to love?” Narrow,
&harp i\que springing up between itself and other forms of I admit. But I remember, also, that sometimes narrow things
l,plief. “Divine love, we insist on as stronglv as you do,” are the most powerful. I recall a stream with which I am fa-
days the ohjpctor, “as the only true motive-p&&r for”drawing miliar, which at one point broadens out for miles into a wide
~o111~to God: bnt in dcfininn that love WC take a wider sween and beautiful expanse of waters. Nothing could be more
than you do. We find its p&encc and its inspiration in ever? lovely than the tranquil flow and calm, majestic sweep of the
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JANUARY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (8)

waters at this place. But a little farther down the stream nothmg could be more quickening to OUI love than the study
gathers itself up and plunges through a narrow gorge between of his works of mercy. But, after all, it is the cross where
the hills. There is far less of beauty here. But here is the the love of Christ culminates and manifests its greatest
place of power; here is where the huge wheels of industry are power. There the current of divine love gathers itself up and
placed; here is where the factories, with their ponderous ma- pours its mighty tide through one act-the greatest and most
chinery, have been reared. So we admit that nothing could powerful which the universe has witnessed. There is where
be more majestic than the life of Jesus Christ; nothing could great souls like Paul, have placed themselves to get the full-
be more beautiful and inspiring than his lofty teachings; est sway and sweep of the love God.--d. J. Gordon.

DID NOT KNOW IT WAS THERE

A well-to-do deacon in Connecticut was one morning ac- in time of trouble.
111111 The Lord will preserve him and keep
costed by his pastor who said: “Poor widow Green’s wood is him alive, and he shall be blessed up011 the earth; and thou
out. Can you not take her a cord?” “Well” answered the wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord
deacon, “I have the wood and I have the te;m, but who is will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing; thou wilt
to pay me for it?” The pastor, somewhat vexed replied, “I make all his bed in his sickness.”
will pay you for it, on the condition that you will read the A few days afterward the pastor met him again. “How
first three verses of the forty-first Psalm before you go to much do I owe you, deacon, for that cord of wood?” “Oh!”
bed tonight.” The deacon consented, delivered the wood, and said the now enlightened man, “do not speak of payment; I
at night opened the Word of God and read the message: did not know those promises were in the Bible. I would not
“Blessed is he that considereth the poor; the Lord will deliver take money for supplying the old widow’s wants.”
- -
VOL. v PITTSBURGH, PA., FEBRUARY, lSS4 so. 7

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

Accounts of widespread and destructive floods of this past dominion of Satan, the prince of this world, until he whose
month, with their accompanying distress, have ere this reached right it is, shall have come and established the kingdom of
you through the daily press. Such like events as floods, God under the whole heavens.
fires, earthquakes, tornadoes, pestilences, cyclones, etc., have While remembering that God has used calamities, such as
always elicited much comment both from press and pulpit the Deluge and the destruction of Sodom, as punishments
regarding their cause. The most commonly attributed cause and examples of an overthrow of the ungodly, it should not
is, that God has sent the calamity as a special punishment for be forgotten that those were examples of those who should
supposed greater wickedness of the people of the suffering afterwird live ungodly. And these examples are not examples
districts, and as a warning to others. of God’s dealings in the nresent time. but are examnles of the
Another and growing view is that it just happened so from punishment or zestructioh awaiting the finally incoriigible dur-
natural causes ; and that, if there is a God, he either cannot ing or at the close of the Millennial judgment period, or day.
help such things, or does not care to do so. That Peter so applies those calamities as examples of the
For our part, we cannot endorse either of these views. future, see 2 Pet. 2 :4-9.
W e quote from the daily press notices of some of the sermons In Jesus’ day some had the same impression, that great
preached in this city. The editor’s comments we consider disasters indicated God’s special displeasure; but Jesus cor-
good : rected them, saying: “Suppose ye that these Galileans were
sinners above all the Galileans because they suffered such
“THE FLOOD IN THE PULPITS. things 0 Or those eighteen up011 whom the tower of Siloaxn
“The flood, which lapped the doorsteps of a number of fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above
churches last week, overflowed into several of the pulpits yes- all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay; but except
terday. Quite a number of preachers found tex6 ior &eir ye repent ye shall all likewise PERISH.”
sermons in different phases of the disaster. The lessons thev These words of Jesus contain the key to what we bcllevc
drew were various. kev. Mr. E a t on rejoiced that the wors’t is the correct view of this subject in the last word, pwtsl~
is past without involving us in total hestruction; pictured The fact is that the great calamity, DEATH, of which pcstilenrr~,
man’s impotence to combat the pitiless force of natural ele- earthquakes, floods, etc., are only inczde~~tals, has pas>cd upon
ments, and drew a parallel with the floods of temptation ALL MEN, because all are sinners. (Rom. 5:12.) W e have be-
which threaten all of us and overwhelm many. Rev. Mr. come so .accustomed to death, the great calamity which 1s
Prugh dwelt upon it as. a proclamation of God’s personal rapidlv swallowine UP the whole race. that it, the cIcreateat
presence and power. Rev. Mr. Sands, while giving due recog-
& ” .I I

of all losses, and the cause of all others, is looked up011 as R

nition to the potency of a heavv rain, combined with the sud- proper and natural matter. If, however, Things ~e~tf properly
den thawing of a deep snow, as’ flood&reating factors in their considered, death as a whole would be seen as the great cnhm-
way, maintained that God was back of it all, with a purpose ity, and the floods, etc., which only hasten it to a few, would
of his own in the calamity. The exact design of Providence be of comparatively little importance.
he did not presume to fathom. Rev. Mr. McCrory took alto- As death, the great calamity and curse, wab c,,lus;ed b\ s;ln,
gether a sterner view of it. He saw in it a visitation of so all these cala&ties spring from the same VHIIZC, nnd are
Divine wrath for the multiplied sins, and called upon us to under the control of him that has the Dower of death. that
take comfort in the thought that we have not been given is the devil (Heb. 2: 14)) whose dominion and power. th.ink
nearly the chastisement we deserve. God, is soon to be taken away and given to the 1’1 IIU of
“There is no question but this last will be the most popular Peace. As death is the result of sin, so :UC pzhtllence*, tor-
view of it-in the hill wards. To those who dwelt upon the nadoes, etc.
high ground, and so escaped the flood, it will be positive By one man’s disobedience, rlca tlr. with it5 nnnlc’101i~ cliiln-
satisfaction to know that the deluge was a punishment sent nels of sickness and disaster passed upon all men, and thoce
up011 the lowlanders on account 07 their desperately wicked who meet it in one way avoid it in others; but all meet it 111
hearts. The folks who never have water in their cellars. how- some form.
ever, will probably cling to a more materialistic viewLthat This will be apparent when we remember that when Adam
the high-water line was drawn in accordance with the natural became a sinner, not only did the curse of dcnth fnll upon him.
topography rather than comparative depravity.” but the entire dominion of his kingdom-the cal tll-sulfrrrd.
The reasons which led people in general to supDose these and is in a cursed condition. (Gen. 3.17.) For :I time Gtan
calamities to be “special j6dgments”are founded,-we believe, is permitted to usurp the dominion of earth, ant1 wlllle srcm-
mainly on the dealings of God with Israel. unon whom he sent ingly working out his own plan 8, he at the sonic time acts as
calam&ies, captivitie;, etc., as national sin;. But let us re- the agent of justice, to esecute the penalty ;f sin. Th~a being
member that Israel was a peculiar people, chosen of God for true, he is the one who by permission eselc’lscs the dcrtruc.rlve
a special purpose, and, like the saints of the Gospel age, dealt power upon the earth; and Jehov;lh does not interfere be-
with in a peculiar manner, different from the world. To them he cause mankind has justly come untlcr the C W ~ V of d violated
said, “You only have I known of all the families of the earth.” law, death ; and because man is gainintr :L vnlu.ible lrs~~>t~
(Amos 3:2.) Israel was the only nation which Jehovah under the present dominion of evil LLIKI dcnth, wll~<*h will brne-
directly governed: therefore he chastised their sins, and made fit him when the curse is lifted not only legallv, but trdu(clZy,
his promises to them, while other nations were left under the by the Redeemer who for this cause was mani’fested “that hr
15331 11’
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA

might destroy DEATH [the great catastrophe in all its forms] the source of his trouble was Satan (Job 1: 12)’ whom God in
and him that bath the Dower of death, [and who brings to wisdom perlnitted to have power over him. As then the whirl-
pass the various calamit;es] that is, the’ dkvil.” wind, etc., was the agent of Satan, so we claim it is today. So,
As soon as the new prince, Immanuel, takes possession of too, it was in Jesus’ day. Jesus did not go about opposing
the kingdom a great change will begin, both in the world of the Father’s will. If the Father had caused the death of La-
uature &l of mankind. l&e curse being cancelled will be re- zarus, would Jesus have opposed him by undoing his work? If
moved. and the blessines Durchased bv the “Drecious blood of Jehovah had caused the storm on the Sea of Galillee. which
Chr& will be bestowid. A So great Gill be ihe change under nearly overwhelmed the Lord and his disciples, would Jesus
the new administration, that in symbol it is callea a new have been justified in stilling that tempest? But if the sick-
heavens [new sDiritua1 ruline Dowerl. Behold he will make ness and death and storms which Jesus counteracted were the
all thing; newt he will re-neg or r&tore all things to har- work of Satan, the present “prince of the world,” then all is
mony with God, and to a condition which from God’s stand- clear, and we and ali creation groan and travail ‘and wait for
point, is “very good.” for the glorious reign of the new prince, whose relief is fore-
Hence we regard those disasters, not as special punish- shadowed by the acts of his earthly ministry, praying, “Thy
ments, but as parts of the general curse, results of sin,; but kingdom come, thy will be done on earth.”
all working out in harmony with God’s design an ultimate When the night of sin and suffering and weeping is over,
good to those rightly ezer&ed thereby. We %ave heretofore and the Sun of Righteousness arises wi;h healing-in lhis wings
seen that the DroDhet Job was made a tvDe of mankind: that for the various troubles of man and of earth, the mists of
the disaster an’d irouble and losses whicl; hefel him illustrated ignorance will be dispelled, and it will be seen that not Jeho-
the losses sustained by mankind, and that his restoration to vah, but man’s sin and his present prince, Satan, has been
favor and after-blessing, foreshadowed the “restitution of all the direct cause of earth’s woe and sorrow.
things” to mankind. (Acts 3:lQ). And we call to mind that

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS

Hillsboro, Oregon. for twenty years. I know he must be earnestly seeking truth,
lIR.5. C. T. RussEr.L-Dear Sister: I have some precious but how far he eoes awav from it. When he got his team
names to place before you, to whom please send samples of ready, he came yn and aiked me if I could go out to his
the TOWER. Yes, I think truly God sent me here to break the place and stay a few days and teach them in our way. He
chain* of poor caDtires. About two weeks aeo I heard of a said he would bring his wife and the hack and take my boy
lady in this place who was a Bible student. -I called, found Robbie and me if my husband could not leave. Oh how
a plain, quiet, middle-aged woman in the midst of her family. earnestly I pray that my words may be blessed. Oh, to bring
In the corner of the chief room was a stand with a large joy and gladness into the regions of darkness.
Bible and some histories, showing me instantly that mind a:d It seemed almost like inviting persecution to introduce
heart were at work. I cautiously introduced the burden, I the subiect of Restitution in the “DisciDle” Draver-meeting. I
should say joy, of my life-the better way-and found she earnestly prayed that if I was to speak the;e ihe Lord w>uld
was of the Christadelphian flock, I did not in any way con- open a door for me. Elder led, and read Matt. 11:
demn them, but after gaining her heart by my appreciation 20-30, and spoke somewhat on the subject referred to. Then
of her student life in the midst of cares I took up her Bible, he very nobly and earnestly invited all present to present
well marked in the direction of a night of eternal darkness their views. I waited until almost all present had done so.
from a material standpoint, and I quickly found some dawning nearly all reflected what the leader had said. Dare I let this
light and sunshine. I brought smiles to her face, and tears, rare opportunity go? I did not, and God gave me strength
not of sorrow, but of joy, to her eyes-Oh how gladly she and clearness of expression.
drank in the goodness of God. Love is so much better a I find Jonah’s prototype in preachers of today. How of-
master than fear. fended they get to think God is going to be so good to the
Since then she comes to see me, and we feast from the great mass of mankind. The East wind is blowing. Thank
deep unfailing fountain in the great storehouse. I have loaned God it comes from sun-rising and not from sunset, and all
and given away most of my WATCH TOWERS. This lady wants shades feourds) will wither and blow awav. even though the
to studv these things now, and she is a rapid student for sun beai%n the’intellect of these college owis who blinkrn the
she is so earnest. -She wishes now to go tb her brethren, sunshine.
some fifty miles away, and tell them what great things the I gave a copy of 2. W. T. to a missionary of Alaska and
Lord has done for her-God willing I will go with her. In will get the address of some men in Portland, whose homes
my weakness my Master will show his power. are in Abvssinia. Greece and Sandwich Islands.
Yesterday a farmer brought us some produce ana toOK Dear lovely ‘Texas (my former home) I pray the truth
dinner with” us. I found hi& quite scholarly, but without will find a voice there. I will write to a friend in Brownswood
faith in the God of resurrection. Nature is his book. I im- -She is an EDiscoDalian but not satisfied. Who knoweth if
proved the time in showing the goodness of the God whom we she be come i&o t6e kingdom for such a time as this? She
love and serve. He was surprised that I did not get angry is good, strong, and true with a ioyful spirit but painful
or defend popular theology, and said he had not read a Bible body. I am lovingly your sister in Christ, MRS.

OUR NAME
Sew readers in all parts of the country are constantly of Calvin’s teachinrs. therefore thev were not called Calvin-
inquiring: By what names do you call yourselves? Are you ists; because they w”eie not follower; of Luther’s teachings and
‘*Primitive Baptists”? Are you “Missionary Baptists”? Are example, therefire they were not called Lutherans; bit be-
vou “Universalists”? Are vou “Adventists”? Are vou “Prim- cause thev followed the ONE examDle and teachings of CHBIST
itive Jfethodists”? e.t+, et& We have several timks tried to only, therefore they gladly ackndwledged it wh& they were
make clear our posltlon, and now endeavor in a few words called “Christians.”
again to do so. What think you, do we not occupy the only ground for
We helong to so earthly organization; hence, if you should union? Or suppose that all man-made creeds, and forms, and
name the entire list of sects, we should answer, No, to each prayer-books, and liturgies, and names were laid aside, or that
and to all. We adhere only to that heavenly organixation- all Christians met in the one name of Christ, and in earnest
“whose names are written ih heaven.” (Heb. 12 :23; Luke 10: simplicity studied HIS words under the direction of God’3
20.) All the saints now livinr. or that have lived during SDirit
.* and the exDlanations furnished in the ADostle’s writ
this age, belonged to OUR CHURC; ORCANIZATIOX: such are afi mgs, would there llong be serious differences e&n of opinion
ONE Church, and there is xo OTHER recognized by the Lord. in the Church?
Hence any earthlv organization which in the least interferes Was not that old saint. John Bunvan, who lav for vearE
with this-union oi saints is contrary to the teachings of Scrip- a prisoner in jail in Bedfbrd, Englan”d, because fie preachec
ture and opposed to the Lord’s will-“that they may be ONE." the doctrines of Jesus and the Apostles, in oppositjon to ce1
(Jno. 17:ll.) tain doctrines of the Episcopal Church, right when he said.
By what name may this Church be called? We answer, By “Since you would know by what name I would be distinguished
the name of its founder and institzcter-Christ. Hence it is from others, I tell you I would be, and hope I am, Christian;
the “Church of Christ” or “Church of God,” for God founded and choose if God should count me worthy, to be called a
it on the Rock Christ Jesus; or “Christians,” as they were Christian, a believer, or other such name which is approved
known in early times. (Acts 11:26 ; 26 :28, and 1 Pet. 4: 16. ; by the Holy Ghost. And as for those faction (or sect) titles
But because Paul and the other disciples were not followers of Anabaptist, Presbyterian, Independent, or the like, I con-
[5841
FEDRUARY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER
elude that they came neither from Antioch, nor from Jeru- edge of God th.rougk sanctification of spirit and hrlief of thra
salem, but from Hell and Babylon, for they tend to divisions.” truth. (1 Pet. 1:2; 2 Thes. 2:1X) Some call us ArlyPntl31,
But is it asked, Was not Bunyan a Baptist? We answer, because we find taught in the Scriptures, and thercforr hr.-
Yes, in the same manner that we are Baptist. He was a lieve, that the heavens received Jesus, only ttntil the reytitll-
“Christian” and because in God’s Word he was taught im- tion of all things. And so, by whatsoever names men may call
mersion, or baptism, and not sprinkling, and because he US, it matters not to US; we acknowledge none other name than
practiced with other humble saints his faith, therefore by “the only name given under heaven and among men”-.Je,ll-
Episcopalians or the worldly such were, in derision, termed Christ. We call OUrSdVes Simply CHRISTIANS and we raiif
“Baptists,“- tc. So some now say that we are Baptists be- no fence to separate from us any who believe in the fountlatlon
cause we believe in the doctrine of baptism. Some incline to stone of our building mentioned by Paul: “That Chri\t (lied
call us Calvinists because we believe what we find taught in for our sins according to the Scriptures”; and those for whom
Scripture, that the church is elect according to the foreknowl- this is not broad enough have no right to the name Christian.

“BRETHREN, PRAY FOR US”

In the midst of all the cares, vexations and trials of pray, hut also for the work of spreatllng the Gospel In th,t
life, how blessed the assurance that some of the saints are face of the current of opposition brought to bear against it.
bearing our names before a throne of heavenly grace! We How strengthening to those laboring in public ways. and thrrcl-
should never forget that this is our judgment day, and that by facing the full force of the current against the truth. to
we have almost-reached its final h&r.- Let eahh one ask know that here and there and yonder are saints upon their
himself. How do I annear before God? It is comforting to knees praying for their success-that they bc not nvrrcorne 1,~
know that we are n’oi being judged by the actual success the foe in open conflict; that they be not surprlwtl an’1
of our efforts, but by the efforts themselves and the motives overcome by sudden and overwhelming forces; that they hc
which inspire them; the actual fulfilling of the law being not deceived and taken in a snare at some unfortifird point.
accomplished by our Redeemer and Substitute, in whom we Do all the saints indeed realize the active conflict now
trust. waging with the powers of darkness. and the great iskuc*.
The searching eye of our Judge is now scanning us each, at stake? If you do not, ask God to help you to realize it:
with a view to the final decision, soon tonbe pronounced- to sleep or be idle at your post of duty is dangernu~ indcrtl.
as worthv, or unworthy, of the glorious reward of the faith- Our unseen foe is subtle and wily: therefore let ub 1)~ ~ohcl
ful. It “is a close, just scrutininzing gaze; who can stand and vigilant, ever watching unto prayer, but remembering that
before it? None need fear because their best efforts produce our cravers. as well as our faith would be vain if accomnanied A
imperfect fruit; but they have abundant cause for fear who by indolence and inactivity.
discover in themselves a relaxation of effort, or that motives Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord
of a worldly character begin to supplant the true. Not one of may have free course and be glorified: nravinn also that
the saints who is still running for the prize of our high call- Goh would open yet a wider door-of utter&ce, io hlake known
ing should expect to be exempi from the- Refiner’s testing now. the mvsterv of Christ. 2 Thes. 3: 1: Col. 4: 3.
As we each realize our own and each other’s position, and A& th& we pray: That your l&e may abound yet more
the great possibilities that hinge on the present moment, .how and more in knowledge and in all judgment. That ye may
earnest and unceasing should be our prayers, both for our approve things that are excellent: that yc may be sincere and
selves and for our fellow-nilnrims. Let us watch thereunto without offense in this day of Christ: being filled with the
with all perseverance, and ‘supplication for all saints. fruits of righteousness w&h are by <Jesus Christ unto tht=
But not only for our own personal welfare should we glory and praise of God. Phil. 1:9-11. 1IRP. c. T. R.

WHAT GOD WOULD HAVE US BE

Be sound in the faith. Be without dissimulation.
Be established with grace. Be not wise in your own conceits.
Be ye doers of the Word. Be not deceived.
Be not unfruitful Be led of the Spirit.
Be ready to every good work. Be instant in season and out of stwm~
Be filled with the Spirit. Be ye also patient.
Be a vessel unto honor, sanctified. Be of good courage.
Be an example of the believers. Be strong in the Lord
Be holy and without blemish. Be not weary in well-doing.
Be not conformed to this world. Be gentle unto all.
Be dead indeed unto sin. Be discreet and faithful.
Be it unto thee even as thou wilt. Be diligent and sober.
Be not overcome by evil. Be blameless.
Be ye therefore sober. Be dead with Christ.
Be not high-minded, but fear. Be found of him in peace.
Be not entangled again. Be ye also ready.

PRAYING AND LIVING

“Now we know that God heareth not sinners, but if any avoiding the occasions and temptations thereto : for otllcr-
man be a worshiper of God, and doeth his will, him he wise you will fall before it. Having praved for holiness
heareth.-John 9 : fl. of Iif&, labor to live holily. Harini’ p;a$ed for humillt~-.
“If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear lahnr to walk humbly. Having prayed for sobriety and
me.“-Pe. 06 : 18. temperance, labor to iive soberly and trmprrately. Hn\lng
Ever labor to live suitably to thy prayers. It is to no prayed in the Spirit, labor to walk in the Spirit. Ever bear
nurnose to be the dav with God and then snend it to the in mind that to nrav for one thinrr and live for anothrr IP a
hevh; to be a saint fn the morning in thy closet, and then contradirtion anti al; impiety. Thk whole (‘nurse of one’< lift
a sinner all day in the world. should savor of one’s pravers. He who hath all 111s rcllpiou
Having prayed against sin, be sure you watch against it, in his prayers, hat11 no reiipinn at all.--Rclrc+ctl.

ONE of the keenest replies ever given by a liberal religious who failed to accept the gospel in this life. The r.t.rr I)I, )I,-,
newsPaDer. to a bigoted advocate of future nunishment was denounced this liberal doctrine and declared there WJC no
lately given by the ‘Christian Register to the kxaminer. Rev. hope for those who failed in this life to accept the ~o~pcl
Joseph Cook, in one of his lectures, declared that no living The Christian Register thereupon, in reply, suggtxste’d th:lt the
man knows anything about the theory of probation, and ex- Examiner print its edition on black paper with sm,lll margin
pressed an opinion that the charitable view of the question of white, that its color might cnrrcx-pond with its tll~~~~l,~:\
was. that probation after death would be granted those and doctrine --SfI.

“THOSE who are weary and are heavy laden in any sense, of sin. nnfl are r(*;ltly lo 11tui gliltl t idiri,oG. c.111 licnr t11~>1n
who are tired of the world, and of false teaching, and long from Him. Ollly to Sllc*ll Cilll tll(l gO~pPl Iltb gl:ld 1 Irllllg-. or
for the truth; they who have consciences burdened by a sense g:ontl up\\ $. Only to nwli call it civc i wt.”
[5863
 WRATH
The wrath of God is love’s severity The wrath of God is a consuming fire,
In curing sin-the zeal of righteousness That burns while there is evil to destroy
In overcoming wrong-the remedy Or good to purify; nor can expire
Of justice for the world’s redress. Till all things are redeemed from sin’s alloy.

The wrath of God is punishment for sin, The wrath of God is love’s parental rod,
In measure unto all transgression due, The disobedient to chastise, subdue
Discriminating well and just between And bend submissive to the will of God
Presumptuous sins and sins of lighter hue. That love may reign when all things are made new.

The wrath of God inflicts no needless Dain, The wrath of God shall never strike in vain,
Merely vindictive or himself to please; Nor cease to strike till sin shall be no more,
But aims the ends of mercv to attain. Till God his gracious DurDose shall attain.
Uproot the evil, and the good increase. And earth To righte&ness and peace restore.
-F. B. Wilson.
THE CURSE LIFTED
A curse signifies an opposition, an evil, a bitter punish- In these sacrifices there was remembrance or acknowledg-
ment. Ever since the representative of our race was tried in ment of sins, and since they were repeated it proved that they
Eden, and transgressed God’s commandment, the curse of that never reallV took away sin (Heb. 10:3, 4), never reallV re-
hroken law has rested upon him and upon all whom he in trial moved the curse; but these were typical of -a better sacrifice,
represented-all the Adamic race. That this is so, we need not which God himself Drovided in due time, which did once for
stop to prove at length; we merely refer you to the many all and forever, remove the sin, the curse, and the enmity
ccriptures which declare it, and the many others which de- on God’s part (vs. 5-10.)
clare that it will be removed. The idea that the enmity is all on man’s part, carried to its
But if the Scriptures were silent on the subject, our expe- legitimate end, leads to the very absurd conclusion that
rience proves that a curse rests upon mankind. The anguish, man got angry with God and went out of Eden full of enmity;
sorrow, distress, and death which attend us from the cradle that he would not commune with God, etc., etc.; God remon-
to the tomb, all tell us that a curse rests upon us. Surely strates and pleads with him to return and have his communion
we would be iustified in reasoning, that if man were in full and fellowship; man refuses, and turns his back on his Maker.
harmony with” his Creator, somethrng much better than he has, God sends prophets and teachers, but man spurns them.
would be his Dortion. And lookine into God’s Word this Finally God concluded to make a great sacrifice to men to
thought is corioborated. We find chat when man was sin- appease TREIB wrath and to win their love. This theory would
less and in harmony with God, there was no curse, no sor- have God say: I have been too severe, if I had it to do again
row, no weary laboring, no pain, nor dying, but joy, peace, I would not be so strict; I would forgive instead of condemn-
life and communion with God. All this distress is included in ing you; I would bless instead of cursing; my love for you
the term death, because they all surely lead to it. And this has conquered my justice. Come, now, see what an evidence of
curse-DEATH-Dassed uuon all men in that all had sinned my repentance I am willing to give. My son shall die merely
in the person of their rgpresentative Adam. to show and assure vou that Vour sins are pardoned, and that
It w-as God’s law that cursed us. And since the law is the I am anxious to have your good will and esteem. What a God
expression of God’s mind, or decision, it was God’s curse that would be! Both men and angels would have in contempt
that was on us. Every law, to be of any force, must contain such laws and such a lawgiver.
a penalty or curse for its violation. It is the penalty or How different from this is the truth on this subject!
curse of God’s law that is causing so much misery and dis- Jehovah declares his JUSTICE as unalterable as his LOVE. and
tress in the world, because all are subject to its curie through that infinite wisdom and power make possible the harmonious
its violation bV Adam. This curse is elsewhere termed bv the operation of both. He assures us that justice is the very foun-
Apostle an "E<BIITY?" which word has much the same meaning dation of his throne; that the empire of the universe, and
as curse. Enmity signifies an opposition to-a resentment. the laws for the government of the same are upheld by justice.
Let us look at the subject fairly and fully, for not only has Righteousness and justice are the prop of thy throne. (Psa.
God and his law a just and righteous opposition and enmity 80: 15. Leeser.) While Justice was reading to Adam the
against sinners, but the sinners have since come to have an penalty of the broken l&W-THE cunsx-Love was telling him
opposition or enmity toward God. Cast off from communion that there would be a deliverance. Man might have supposed
and fellowship with his Maker, man went headlong into evil, that God would relent, and not long enforce the penalty;
and the more evil he became, the more opposition and enmity they might have supposed that God’s enmity or opposition
he had toward that which is good and holy and right. “The to sinners expressed by the curse of the law would be forced
darkness hateth the light,” and the darker the hearts of aside by his love; but if they did thus imagine, the long
men became, the more enmity they felt toward God. years of death’s reign must have shattered such hopes, and
Now, if God and man ever again come into harmony, and when finally God declared that he changes not, and will never
are made at-one, he who makes the at-one-me& must remove clear the guilty (Mal. 3:6, and Exod. 34:7), such a false ex-
entirely this enmity. The enmitV of man toward God and his pectation might well be extinguished. If God’s iustice could
law can be removed by making known to men the real ‘never yield, how could his loie help them? thei might well
character of God and of his law. They will then see and have asked.
admire the righteousness and justice of both. This work Infinite WISDOM was equal to the emergency, and God re-
toward the world will be accomplished during the next-the moved the enmity of his own just law by providing a ran-
Millennial age. The knowledge of the Lord shall 611 the whole som, a representative or substitute to take man’s place be-
earth, and all shall k~tow him. And it is of that time that fore the law, to suffer the just for the unjust; and thus
we read: “There shall be no more curse.” (Rev. 22 :3.) while he did not destroy that law which was just and holy and
But what will bring about this abolishment of the curse good, Jesus destroyed its enmity or opposition to the Adamic
of the law? What will compensate for man’s violation of the race, by himself enduring its enrnitu and curse. as it is written:
Law which brought the curse? Some would have us believe “He was made a curse 1;. e., he was cursed or bore the penalty
that the only curse is that opposition which man has against of the curse-death-destruction1 for us.” (Gal. 3: 10-13.)
God and his law, the only enmity, that which man feels in op- Because Jesus was our representative or substitute, [See
position to God and righteousness; but such surely see but Webster’s definition] therefore the curse belonging to us fell
one side of the subject. What ahout God’s opposition to the on him, and the enmity or opposition against us, was reckoned
sinner, which drove him from Eden into sorrow and death? against him. He was cast off to die out of communion, as
Any theory which fails to recognize tkis, fails entirelv: for an enemy, as a sinner, and we recall his dying words, ?fy
there have been some of the race in all ages who felt no God, my God, why ha& thou forsaken me”? Yes-‘He is
enmity toward God, but desired the blessines of his favor- our peace who bath made both (Jew and Gentile) one and
Eden -life and joy. in his fellowship; yet “such never were hath broken down the middle wall of Dartition. having
brought back to the original condition, and any with whom abolished IN 1118 FLESH the enmity.“--“Thai he might recon-
God designed at all to commune, were made to fee2 that His cile BOTH unto OLod [Jew and Gentile needed to have a work
enmity, his opposition, his curse as a barrier still separated done for them which would make them right before God; not
between them as sinners. and himself as holy. This was to make God right in their eyes; not to atone for an injustice
shown in various ways, but in nom more emphatically than in on God’s part, but for unrighteousness on man’s part] in one
the enrlrifice for sin which each must offer before he could have body by the cross-having slain the enmity [opposition of the
anv communion with God. law gninst both Jew and Gentile] thereby.” “For through Mm
15861
FEBRUARY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (3-4)

we both have access, by one spirit unto the Father.” (Eph. ing his law, which because so erased from their heart3 wa5
2: 14-19.) expressed to them in commandments on tables of stone. But,
There was no “access unto the Father” as long as the as God foreknew, the law in stone only condemned, for none
enmity (opposition) of his just law barred us out as-sinners; could render full obedience except with it written in their
but when Jesus became our substitute. and suffered the con- hearts, as a part of their very being. They must be constn-
demnation or enmity for the unjus&absorbed it all-received tutionally right ant1 just and loving, “else they would be con.
its full measure on the cross, he thus abolished-destroyed- stantly warring against themselves and unable to obey.”
all claim axid enmity of the law against us on account of (Rom. 5:20-25.) But that law served to give them an idea oi
Adam’s disebedience. “Now therefore ye are no more strangers their need of divine help-the need of having the penalty
and foreigners, and outcasts from the Lord and his com- paid for them, and then having the law rewritten zn the&r
munion, but are “made nigh BY the blood of Christ.” (vs. hearts. (Gal. -3:23-25 and Gal.‘-4:5-7.)
13, 19.) Thoueh Satan and sin have done a terriblv denracline work
Jesus offered himself as a sacrifice, not for God, unto men, in man,-putting darkness and error for ligl& aid tru&, yet
to appease their enmity or opposition, but unto God, for men, we may still find traces of the original law in the most de-
to remove the righteous enmity and curse of God’s law which graded of men, the world over. Even barbarian salape> have
was against men because of their sin. some ideas concerning right and wrong, justice and l:juatice,
But note, the LAW has not been changed; right is still however crude they may be. Paul testifies to this al<o, saying
right and wrong is still wrong, and will ever so remain; but of the heathen: “These having not the [written] law ale
mankind has been purchased out from under the dominion a law unto themselves, which &ow the work [some evIdencei
and curse of the la<. Mankind is reckoned as now belonging of the law written in their hearts. their conscience also bear
to him who bouaht them with his own precious blood. The ing witness.” (Rom. 2:14, 15.) ’
claims of the la% being all settled by hi&, the entire control It is because this law has been so nearly blotted out oi
of men is delivered to the Lord who bought them. What- the once perfect human nature, that it will require so lone
ever now shall be done with them he shall do it. He may to restore-it to perfection. This law must gradu&lly be agal;
do what he will with his own-thenceforth “the Fathel interwoven into human nature before it will again be an
judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the image of God, and at one with him. \Vhen so restored to God’-
Son”-“He is Lord of all.” (John 5:22; Acts 10:36.) image, all doubts as to what is right and what wrong, and all
Having delivered mankind from the dominion and curse of I
nreference for the wrong. will be at an end. With hi, uhulc
-I

the perfect law, and abolished the legal opposition-the curse nature right, the law of God written all o\er him, as the
of death which was against them-the next work of Messiah is law of his being, man will be prepared to do right, not irom
to men, and not tow&d God; and for this work he takes to fear, nor from reward, not because some one would see or some
himself aeat power and will reign. The obiect of his reign one would not see, but because right is right-the \erv
will be t’; destioy man’s enmity 6God and his law, and to r’- same motive of righteousness and justice which governs all ;r’
engrave that law upon their consciences. The work of rec- our Maker’s actions.
onciliation toward God for man’s sins, was quickly accom- Then God and men will be entirely at one, in perfect
plished, for the Lord waited to be gracious, b& towards men harmonv. I
Then it will be seen that God’s laws are onlvI blezs-
it will require an age-the Millennium-to accomplish it. ings, and the only prevention of evil which is a source oi
The reason of this is apparent: It will require all of the misery. When thus harmonized, Christ the mrdlcclor who
Millennial age to rewrite the law of God upon the hearts of died to redeem, ?nd reigned to restore men to God, will “de
men. When perfect, before the fall. the law of God was so liver up the kingdom to God, even the Father.” ( 1 Cor. 13.2-1. )
thoroughly &printed in man’s mat&e that no written law All enmity and curse will have been destroyed. The ennuty 01
upon tables of stone was needed. Man, a moral image of God’s law having been met and settled, and man’s enmity to
God, had a conscienre so delicately adjusted that it would the law removed by a restitution to original perfection, the
decide instantly what was right and what wrong. His diffl- image of God.*
culty, as we have already seen, was that he did not appreci- In harmony with this is another Scriptural statement:
ate the evil or curse which was the penalty of wrong-doing. “While . . we were enemies, we were reconciled to God [and the
But cast off from the fellowship and communion of God by opposltlon and curse of his violated law was lifted] by thcl
reason of sin. the law became more or less obliterated. and death of his Son, much more being reconciled \\e sh(tZl ZW
instead there’ sprung up an enmity or opposition to the law SAVED [brought back into that co<dition of perfcctlon ,UU~
which they acknowledged as good, but found themselves less harmonv with God and His law where we WIII be no Ion~c~i
and less able to observe. Paul refers to this blotting out condemied but approved] by his lafe.” (Ram. 3. 10.) Thl; I.
of the image and knowledge of God and his law, saying: another brief statement of the same glorious truth by thta
“When thev knew God thev glorified him not as God. neither Apostle. When the work of Christ is fully acconlplishetl
were thankful; but becams Fain in their imaginatibns. and “Then there shall be no more curse;” “for the folmcl thing.
their foolish heart was darkened.” And even ai they did not [the evil incurred through Adam’s transgression] are pab.etl
like to retain God in their knowledge. God eave them over to away.” (Rev. 22:3; 21:4.) put away Iegall~ by the “s:~(.r~-
a reprobate mind.” (Rom. 2:21, 28:) ” fice of himself (Christ) ;” and put away ‘in fact bv 111.
About two thousand years after the fall. and when the glorious reign. “Behold the Lamb of God that takcth ‘a\i:l\
original law was well nigh erased, Cod selected a small nation the sin of the world.” For “Chiist hat11 rcdeemrd us from t&
-Israel-and made covenants with them based on their keep- curse of the law, being made a curse for us.”

THAT THOU DOEST, D O Q U ICKLY

“Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the long. Alrrady the masses are waking up to their right>; and
night? The watchman said. The morning cometh. and also when fullv awake. thev will rise lil,c a maddrncd r.rl<lnt. and
u

thi night.” We have been particularly in;erestd in the first woe to the puny a~ ni tbat ~111 ol)po~~ them then !
part of the watchman’s answer; but is there not also in the When the conflict failly opens, WC’may chpect to h(~ a
second part a message for us? repetition of the reign of terror which ha< charac*tcr1/,(~~1
The night cometh. For about ten years we have heard the su>h outbreaks in the past. In fact, c\ en if propllcsc*y tIltI
cry, “The- night cometh.” We see the signs increasing day not clearly portray the terrible scenes, we ought to *cc th.lt
bv dav. “On the earth distress of nations, in DerDlexitv for outbreaks in the nast would 1~ t;lmca ~o~~t~~;~lctl u It II t 111,
tie roiring of the sea (restless and unrestriinagle &nn.a&ty ) grand final conflict. Not only will this ol;c be univer>.\l.
and the billows (the active and impetuous leaders) ; men spreading itself over the civilized world, and possibly c~\er!--
fainting for fear (witness the crowned heads of Europe today ) , where, so that there will bc no placc of I efugc, but thkt
and for expectation of the things which are coming on the clestluctive agents whic$ will bc used will make it seven-iold
inhabited earth: for the powers of the heavens (gover:l- worse. 1)vnaniite and nitroKlycci inc. ill (1 no\\ tl~,s i,l\ 01 II~’
ments) shall be shaken.” They are shaking everywhere. Why 1 agents. To them conflagration. with all its horrors, ia ii.
They have ruled by oppress&. In many cases’ they trample nsthinp. It is like comp&in, (r thr electric8 tclcgr:lpb with thcl
on human rights. Their subiects are their slaves. If thev stage coach, or the work of the thunder-bolt u ith the <lo\+
choose to ma;e war, these slakes must either go out and kiil
their brothers or languish in prison-fortunate if they escape
with their lives. In peace thev must Dav to keen UP a vain
pomp, and a small a;my of courtiers anh useless pe;lsioncAI h.
The manv must live without
Y
life’s comfort’s and frcaucntli
A
even without its necessities, that the few may live like hogs
Surely only the blind may fail to see that this cannot last
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, Pa

Pittsburghers remember the results of two days of destruc- go of it, and turned your back upon it? Do you count it
tion in July. 1677. Scores of locomotives and hundreds of cars no more yours, but the Lord’s ?
were pillaged and burned ; travel was suspended and all business The time to rest is not at the beginning of the work, but
was demoralized. Imagine this condition in all the great cen- at the other end. If these bodies get used up, we have better
ters-railroad, telegraph and mail communication all cut off. ones waiting. The present life has duties that cannot and
NO letters from e&&r friend or foe. No papers-not even should not be avoided; but let the earthly be subordinate to
%10x's WATCH TO~EX. then. So provisions, except as the Lord the spiritual.
&y provide for his own. All chaos, tumult and terror. Remember, we are now living in the day of the Lord.
What opportunity will we then have either to study to- It has come as a thief in the night. Soon, as Peter describes,
rether or to snread the light already received? Probably “The heavens (governments) will pass away with a great
;lothing to coipare with ihe presen”t. What we do, we noise (moral as well as physical dynamite), and the ele-
must do quickly. Now we have every facility. Let every one ments (component parts and principles of the governments)
ieel the responsibilitv of the position. shall be dissolved with fervent heat (Jer. 23 :29 ; Mal. 3:2 ;
The ca&e needs ilelp. Thire are but few who have the 1 Cor. 3: 13-15)) and the earth (organized society) and the
lieht. Let everv one earnestlv nrav, “Lord. what wilt thou works that are therein (oppression! fraud, deceit, pride, etc.,
hzve me do ?” “Keep praying,- ahd keep doing; but see that and probably including also social institutions and business,)
you are directed of the Lord. Let neither time, talents nor shall be burned up. Seeing that these things are thus to be
money be uselessly employed. The truth and the time demand dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in holy
sacrifice. The Lord requires a sacrifice. The way to the living and godliness 1”
cross-the only way-means a sacrifice. Are you sacrificing? “That thou doest, do quickly.” “The night comet& when
Is nil on the altar? If you have laid it there, have you let no man can work.” W. I. M.

WHAT IS YOUR JUDGMENT?

..l’nr the love of Christ constraineth us, because we thus judge: That if one died for all, then were all dead; and that
11~ tlietl for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose
ag"ill."--t! COY. 5:14, 15.

Paul here offers a reason for his zeal for God. Some dantly in Scripture, though translators have not happened to
thought his mind unbalanced because he endured so much for use these words in translating. The thought is generally con-
the sake of preaching Christ and him crucified, but he assures veyed by the words ransom, redeem, bought, etc., and, by this
us that from his point of view he did none too much. His word “FOR” *, one of the meanings of which and the princi-
reasoning and his ideas of right and justice demanded all pal one is, inkead of, as a substitute or representative stands
that he was doing, and more, if he were able. Then he tells FOR or instead of those whom he renresents.1
us the process of reasoning from which he judges thus: When the reading of the two oldest Ma&scripts (Sinaitics
“Christ died for all”: , if so. then all must have been dead. and Vatican) is observed, the force of this word for is clearly
either actuallv dead and buried, or else under sure sentence manifest. Those MSS. read it thus: “Because we thus judge,
of death, which would ultimately be executed. If Christ died that one died FOB all, consequently all were dead.”
to purchase for all the right to return from death, then, Nor should we fail to apply the lesson of verse 15. tltat
argues Paul, it is evident that the purchased life belongs to since Christ died for all, they which live by his purchase
the purchaser; and I “thus judge” that all such should not should render life-service to him? It is not enough that we
henceforth live unto themselves, but should render that life in call ourselves by his name and say we are his servants, but
service to their Redeemer. His servants we are TO WHOM we render service.
Do we agree with Paul? was his reasoning or judgment Let US remember that faithfulness and obedience are quali-
good ? If so. let it be our excuse also for earnestness and ties absolutely necessary to a good servant. While we mav or
sacrifice in the service of our Redeemer. Paul regarded it should be anibitious to”render” important service to our cord,
as a matter of simnle iustice. and not a favor on his part to let us ever remember to heartily say, Thy will be done, 0
render service; he-judged it’ right to do thus. * Lord. If the Master has placed you in such position that
This scripture shows clearly the doctrine of Christ Jesus you canno& render great service, do not neglect what he har
being a substitute or representative for all in death. [We given you, to do that which he has not given you to do. Remem-
might remark that neither substitute nor representative are ber that his method is, to test us in small things before com-
words which occur in the English translation of the Bible. mitting to us greater, on the principle that he ihat is faithful
but let us remember that the %ible was not written in En& in that which is least, will be faithful also in that which in
lish, and that in translating there is a certain liberty accorded greater. To him who’improves the talents and opoprtunities
the translator. which nermits him to select such English words given, comes a blessing and increase of opportunity, and finally
as he may chdone, to ;?xpress the meaning of the oryginal text. the “well done, good and faithful servant thou hast been fadh-
The meaning of substitute and representative is found abun- ful ozler a few things, I will make thee ruler over many.

PROPHETIC PEN PICTURES CONTINUED

THE SEALED BOOK-ISA. 29:9-14
“Stay but still and wonder; turn your eyes away, and “For the Lord hath poured out over you the spirit of deen
he blinded ; they are drunken, but not with wine; they sleep, and hath closed iour eyes: (over) the p;ophets, a&
stagger,
.., but not with strong drink.” (V. 9, Leeser’s trans.) your chiefs, the seers, hath he cast a vail.” (V. 10. Leeser.)
With a touch of irony Ehe Lord ‘here. addresses nomi- Since t6ey have turned their eyes away irom the trutl;,
nal Zion. The unfoldmgs of his truth as the time God permits -them to sit in darkness and td be overcome with
here referred to (the time in which we are living) are sleep. Who cannot see the spirit of letharw and drowsiness
so marked, forcible and clear to faithful students of the regarding spiritual things which pervades nc&inal Zion. They
Word. and observers of its fulfillment, that onlv those could are not asleep on temporal subjects; they are awake to all
be blinded, who deliberately turn their eyes aGay from the worldly ambitions-to the rivalrv of numbers. of nulnit or-
truth, and determine to sit still, enveloped in the darkness atory, -church music, imposing edifices, etc.-b& to ihe* teach-
of human tradition. ;Ind in their darkness they wonder at ings of God’s Word they are asleep. Over the teachings of the
what they think the strange course of the Lord’s dealings. Prophets, and of Jesus and the Apostles a vail is cast. “And
Their staggering is the staggering of indistinct vision and the vision of everything [the revelation of God’s truth
weakness. the halting and vacillating of bewilderment and con- through these] is become unto you [nominal Zion] as the
fusion. They are not drunken with wine. The wine here words of a book that is SEALED." (V. 11, Leeser.) This they
referred to is that which svmbolizes their consecration-that themselves admit, and therefore seldom attempt to expound
of which Jesus said, “Drink ye all of it,” and “Are ye able the Scriptures, but merelv take an isolated nassaee. and
to drink of the cup that I shall drink of ?” (Matt. 26:27; from it draw some moral l&son. Nominal Zion ias d&Larded
and 20:22 ) While this wine of sacrifice exhausts the human the teachings of the true Prophets and Seers of the church.
nature, it invigorates, and makes strong the spiritual na- and has taken instead the decrees of human councils and
ture. It is not because of this wine or strong drink of sacri- synods, while the decrees of the real Head and teachers of the
fice, then. that nominal Zion staggers, but because, as shown church are neglected. Hence they know not what to think of
in the preceding chapter (verses 3-7), they have partaken the present, and are still more confused if they think of
of the intoxicatinrr <pirit and pleasures of this world. the future.
C588J
PEBRUARY. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (4-5)

“Which [book-the Bible] men deliver to one that is with, the Lord’s plans. Yea, a man may also deceive even
learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee; and he saith, Z can- himself thus (2 Tim. 3: 13) ; but he cannot deceive God. He
not, for it is sealed. And the book is delivered to him that knows that the controlling principles of sectarianism are
is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee; and he saith, I earthly and selfish. He knows of the dark works and secret
am not learned.” (Verses 11, 12.) conspi!racies in wrong, not only of the Jesuits, but also, in a
The nrophecies of the Old and New Testaments are sealed less degree. of Protestants. who to accomn1ish their z&n8 are
against -their learning, for they have studied only at the willing- to,’ and do resort’ to, many schimes and devices to
feet of science and sectarianism, and have neglected the raise money and to have their systems seem to flourish,
school of Christ and the study of its text-book,-the Bible; which they would not care to have generally known among
hence their learned ones lack the true wisdom, and the true men, and which they seem to think God seeth not. How
snirit. which alone will enable any to appreciate the deep often reports are doctored to make a good impression. How
things of God. (Compare 1 Cor. -2 :5-14.-)- The unlearned, often subscription lists are headed with prominent names
accustomed to look to earthlv learning for instruction in and large sums of money only for effect, and-never expected to
heavenlv things, and not to the testim&y of Prophets and be naid. (This not infreouent custom was illustrated re-
Apostle;, will-not even attempt to understand. - cenily by the course of the’officials of a prominent Brooklyn
“Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw church, freely criticised by the public press.) All this is
near to me with their mouth, and with their lips do honor ostensibly to forward the Lord’s work, but really to accom-
me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their plish their own plans.
fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: therefore, “Who seeth it? Who knoweth it?” The Lord seeth in
behold I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this secret; in vain do thev hide it, and tell him that thev are
people, even a marvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom laboring for him. Woe unto these, for their counsel “shall
of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their come to naught; their cherished plans shall fail, and their
prudent men shall be hid.” (Verses 13, 14.) - pride will be humbled in the dust. The woe, distress and
Formalitv of worship and service has taken the place of irouble coming upon the nominal Church will be in reality
heart servick. When <he service was from the heart, the a blessing in disguise to the individuals that comnose it: but
Lord’s plans were searched for, as for hid treasure. His it will bi consid&ed as calamity and trouble, u&l they are
Word was studied that the mystery of God might be ap- brought to understand and to come into harmony with God’s
preciated as fast as his ripening and unfolding pians would plans.
’ It was a longing such as Daniel experienced when But all this schemina will not succeed: for the Lord savs.
Ltr%.rched and fasted and prayed for weeks, that he might “Surely your turning oyf things upside down [perverting ‘of
know whatever of God’s plan-he-was pleased to reveal. - the Lord’s plans and doctrines] shall be esteemed as the
It was the longing desire to comprehend with all saints [effort of the] potter’s clay [to oppose the potter]. For shall
the length and breath and depth and height, and to know the work say of him that made it, He made me not? Or
the love of Christ. and be filled with all the fullness of God. shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He hath
(Eph. 3:18, 19.) no understanding?” Surely the Church is God’s creation; it
But the worldly spirit soon cast out this thirst for truth and is “his workmanship” (Eph. 2: lo), but the spirit of the
knowledge. as the heart became interested in worldlv aims nominal Church is to look to others framers. Some look
and plans.a ’ Though the forms of godliness have coitinued to Peter, some to Luther, some to Calvin., Knox and Wesle
and increased, the real worship and submission to God has And indeed, as they at present stand, this is true, for whl.i’e
ceased. and interest is bent to man-made plans. While they THE CHURCH is God’s workmanship, the division of that
draw ‘nigh to God with their lips, saying, “Thy kingdom Church into fragments is the work of men, and may say to
come.” and “Thv will be done.” thev are endeavoring to have God. Thou hast not made me. And the fact that men today
their own wills done, and to establish their own -sectarian argue that the division (sectarianism) of the Church is an
dominions in the world. Their fear of God and their unrest ad?antage, and to the advancement of the truth, is the equiva-
in view of his sunnosed decrees is not the result of the studs lent of the thing framed saving to God. “Thou hast no
of his Word, b&l is taught by the precept of men. Alas, understanding” ; we know better how to frame and organize;
how pitiable this condition! Pet they are ignorant of it, you said that we all should be one, and that there should
and sav. We are rich and increased in goods and have need be no division among us (John 17 : 11, 22; 1 Cor. 12 325) ;
of nothing, and know not that they are-poor and blind and but we have learned better-that divisions are a great bless-
miserable and naked. (Rev. 3: 17.) ing and advantage.
Seeing it is thus, what shall the Lord do with them? Will Verily the great Potter shall have the schemes of the
he utterly cast them off 1 Will he leave them in their clay in derision, and shall break in pieces their workman-
blindness? No. He savs. “Therefore. behold I will proceed ship [the systems or organizations, not the people] as ves-
to do a marvelous work” among this people, even a ma>velous sels of wrath fitted for destruction, and shall show forth in
work and a wonder; for the wisdom of their wise men glory of kingdom power his vessels of more and of less honor.
shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men \Vhat if God, willing to show his wrath and to make his
shall be hid.” (V. 14.) power known; endured with much long-suffering the vessels
As this already becomes evident to many, what a marvelous of wrath fitted to destruction; and that he might make known
thing it seems to those accustomed to look to the professed the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy which he had
leaders and teachers of the nominal Church. As the light of afore prepared unto glory? Surely the pres;?nt overturning
truth begins to dawn upon many minds from other sources, of the Lord’s arrangements shall be brought to naught.
how often we hear the remark, “How strange that we do not “Is it not yet a very little while, and Lebanon shall be
hear these things from our ministers!” But the Prophet turned into a fruitful field; and the fruitful field shall be es-
makes answer: “The wisdom of their wise men shall perish, teemed a forest?” (Verse 17.) Mount Lebanon. with its tall
and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.” and stately cedar trees, will ‘here represent the majesty and
The heavenlv wisdom is hidden from those who are wise and dignity of the nominal Church, and the reverential esteem with
prudent aft’er the world’s fashion, and revealed unto those which its ministrv is regarded. The fruitful field might
who are babes in simplicity and meekness. (Matt. 11:25.) well represent the humble and lowly saints. In “a very like
God will not leave his erring children; he will attract while” things shall be reversed: that which is now nroud and
their attention back to his plans, causing all their plans to majestic shill be cut down and plowed, and become humble
wonderfullv miscarrv and fail. Thus thev shall see the follv and fruitful, while that which is now humble will be exalted
of attempting to liy plans for God; an”d when their plan> as Lebanon to heavenly conditions, majesty and power.
fail, they will look up, and lo! the Lord’s plans, which in This change, and this overthrow of the present systems.
their “haste” (Isa. 28 : 16) thev discarded. will, like the cen- is at the time of the exaltation of the saints to spiritual
tury plant, suddenly burst forth in glory and beauty and glory and power, at the introduction of the Millennium. In
perfection. harmony with this we read: “In that day shall the deaf hear
Meantime while the “marvelous work” Iv. 14) of over- the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see
throwing the present great systems of men ‘(which, like the out of obscurity and out of darkness.” What a blessed nros-
tower of Babel, is an attempt on the part of men to work pect is this for those who at present are so stumbled by
their plans regardless of the Lord’s) is in progress, the Lord’s Babylon’s confusing traditions! Not only will it bring bless-
warning is, ‘Woe to them that seek deep to hide their counsel ing to those whose vision is obscured, but also to those
rschemes. nlans.1 from the Lord. and their works are in totally blind and deaf and utterly ignorant of the precious
the dark, ind they say, Who seeth us, and who knoweth information of God’s Word. “The meek also shall increase
us?” (v. 16.) their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoicle in
It is possible to deceive fellow-men, and convince them the Holy One of Israel: for the terrible one [Satan] is
that certain plans are not different from, but in harmony brought to naught. and thcb scorner is consumed, and all that
15891
(5) ZION’S WATCH TOWER

watch for iniquity are cut off: that make a man an offender shall not now [at that time] be ashamed, neither shall his face
for a word [spoken contrary to them], and lay a snare for him wax pale. But when he seeth his children, the work of my
that reproreth in the gate [publicly], and turn aside the hands [the Christ, the spiritual seed] in the midst of him,
just [the righteous] for [or, as] a thing of naught.” (V. 21.) they [fleshly Israel] shall sanctify my name [Jehovah], and
This is in that same “D-4~" that fleshly Israel shall be sanctify the holy one of Jacob [Christ], and shall fear the God
restored to favor under the direction of glorified spiritual of Israel.” (Verses 22, 23.)
Israel, their holy one. “Therefore, thus saith the Lord who “They also that erred in spirit shall come to understand-
redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: Jacob ing, and they that murmured shall learn doctrane.” (V. 24.)

GUIDANCE
Should not God’s own word satisfy every inquiring mind Again. How recognize the voice as God’s voice amid the
touching divine guidance all the way through life? confusion that comes from another spirit than the good
Has He not said, “Acknowledge Him in all thy ways, and Spirit of God. John bids us “try the *spirits, whether &ey
He shall direct thv naths.“-Prov. 3 :6. are of God,” and in referring us, in the trying, to the Word
“The Lord wili iuide thee continually.“-Isaiah 11: 58. itself, we are told that the Spirit’s confession of Christ-
“He will be our guide, even unto death:“-Psalm 48 : 14. exaltation of Christ-in the exhibitions of His love, unerr-
“Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel.“-Psalm 73:24. inelv declare it to be of God’s aood Spirit. so moving the
The meek will He guide in judgment.“-Psalm 25:Y. he&t that the voice will be known-as God’s voice. God s;eaks,
This guidance in Judgment will be God’s guidance for then, not only by His Spirit, but by His Word, and with the
the knowme of His will. As we honor him by perfect eye single and the heart fixed on knowing His will, it will
obedience aid submission of spirit, he takes into” h[s own be revealed as His voice through the light the blessed Spirit
hand the direction of our way, and calls on us only to follow sheds upon the Word.
the Leader, who will make plain paths for our feet through If, then, there be in the heart a desire for guidance in
all the journey. any of the relative duties of life, divine light will be shed
How shall I know the voice as God’s voice? upon every step of the way through the Word, under the
9s well ask, How know the voice of a most intimate illuminating power of the Spirit. God’s words are made living
friend or companion? Has not intimacy with that friend words, and will be spoken afresh as His voice expressing His
in familiar converse, as YOU have walked in companionship will, as certainly as we ask, expectine to know it. In sinele-
together, made the voice “to be as well known as iour own-? ness of eye for God’s glory the Holy spirit purifies the visiin;
Cultivate, then, like intimacy with God, walk with him and the scales fall : we see clearlv:u x we know God’s will. for the
talk with him hour by hour, and in the freedom you have voice is His to us, and in the consciousness our steps are
with a personal friend. Cultivate such a sense oP His liv- ordered of the Lord we testify that “He leadeth us.” -
ing presence that you will learn to speak to Him, as well as of The result, then, of carrying “everything to God in prayer,”
Him, most freely and without embarrassment. Living thus in everything pertaining to this life, that you may know His will,
companionship ivith God, for companionship implies converse, desiring obediently to do it, will beget such a susceptibility to
vou will learn to know God’s voice when He sneaks; and as hear the sliehtest whisner that YOU will learn to know it as
;ou bring all your thoughts into captivity to &e obehience of clearly as tge father of- our race- knew God’s voice, spoken to
Christ, habituating yourself to speak to Him of all that you him in the cool of the evening, as he walked in the garden
do, holding nothing back, you will find it most easy to lay of Eden.
down the task in which you may be engaged, at any moment, And then, in the depth of your consciousness, you will
to hold intercourse with Jesus as your loving friend. Living find yourself learning to catch the reverberation of His voice
thus, you will not fail to know God’s voice when He speaks in every sound of nature, in the intervals of thought, as
to you. they come in the occupations of life. If you have the first
Then, again, with your soul baptized in love-in the love lessons to learn in divine guidance, read the eighth and
of the Lord Jesus-you will live in such an assurance of tenth verses of the 143rd Psalm, and with those on your lips
God’s love to you, &at there will be no questioning in your take the matter on which you would have light to G%d. Aik
mind as to his resnondine to the lonninn desire of vour heart Him to auide YOU: and with no will of vour own. no choice
to know his will. a Thus: thus, youYwin be at re&, assured as to thepathkay; trusting everything to’ God, while silently
He will no more fail in this than in giving you your daily waiting to hear His voice, as God is true it will be given you
bread. As well may you question your receiving salvation as to know His will. You will hear it saving. “This is the way:
divine guidance, and that up to the full measure of your walk ye in it.” As you enter upon thk dvding of it, opposihg
faith in His own words of promise, for they are as full obstacles will disappear, for the voice of God’s providence
and complete. is in unison with that of the Spirit and the Word.-#elected

FLIGHT IN W INTER
MATT. 24:20
From inquiries which we now and then hear made regard- Then again the contraction of these necessary comforts
ing duty, we are made aware that to “line upon line,” ‘an- of a cold winter’s night becomes the more apparent as they
other line should be added. come to “understand doctrine.” (See Isa. 28: 19, 20, margh. t
It is dreary work to take a journey-on foot-in winter; However strange and unreasonable this dissolution of the
but under some circumstances, it becomes necessary; never- nominal Church system may seem to some, the Lord will
theless, it is desirable to avoid it if possible. “bring to pass his act, his strange act. Now therefore be
If we know we have a journey to perform, it is much bet- ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong.” (Isa. 28:
ter to attend to it when circumstances are most propitious. 21, 22.)
Jesus, when speaking to the disciples conce&ig the de- There has come to be so much “vain worship,” because
struction of Jerusalem, says, “Pray ye that your fheht be “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men,” (Matt.
not in the winter.” ‘The- careful” ahd unprejudiced- Bible 15 : 19)) that the removal of the “candle-stick out of his Dlace,”
student sees that the destruction of ancient Jerusalem is has become a necessity. (Rev. 25.) “The light of a -candie
a type of the dissolution of the nominal Christian Church; that shall shine no more at all in thee: and the voice of the
the latter is due at the end of this age, according to prophecy, bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all
even as the destruction of Jerusalem was due at the close in thee.” (Rev. 18:23.)
of the Jewish age: that what was an historical fact regard- Who are they that get uneasy in the churches? Are they
ing the former,.- 13 a spiritual fact, further on, conce%ing those who do not study their Bibles much? Mind, we say
the latter; that the latter is the counterpart of the former, and study; not look over the S. S. lesson and prepare one’s
30 treated by Jesus in the 24th of Matthew; so much so that self to answer the geoaraphical and historical auestiona.
many have found it difficult to tell where his nredictions but who wish to know -wfiat is “between the l&es,” ani
con&rning the one ended and the other began. “under the letter.” Are not the uneasv “troublers of Israel”
How many, recognizing that the summer of “the Church’s” the ones who “inquire and search d%igently”P Searching
prosperity is ended, and the “harvest past,” are getting uneasy what or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was
as the winter approaches and the love of many waxes cold; in them (the prophets) did signify, when it testified be-
and their unrest is increased in proportzon as they come to forehand the sufferings of Christ and the glory that should
realize the shortness of the bed, and the nurrow)tess of the follow”?
cozering. Is it not plain enough to all of us, that anyone who, in
Ftsauan~, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

the Church, shall persistently make such inquiries will be Do I love more the one who stands at the door knocking, or
reproved for “prying into things which are not for us to the Church who is refusing him admission, and who is say-
know”? Now it is not for us to tell individuals what is ing, “My Lord delayeth his coming, and shall begin to beat
their personal duty. It is our place to speak of principles the men-servants and maidens, and to eat and drink and to
in their general application and each must judge about the be drunken ?” “The lord of that servant will come (HERO, BE
particula; applicat%n to himself. Jesus spoke -very plainly IIEBE) [will have come. Rotherham’s trans.1 in a day when
about the condition of the Jewish Church in that time, and he looketh not for him. and at an hour when he is not
of a certain class, but seldom or never of any one individual in AWARE." (Luke 12 :45, 46.)
it. His condemnation was of corrupt principles and corrupt The drunkenness referred to is of the spirit and mind,
classes, and wae in public. and its effects are described in Isaiah 29: 9-16.
He says concerning his teaching, “In secret have I said However “the Church” may question “the presence” of
nothing.” (John 18:20.) But why should Jesus, or we, con- Christ, if you who are inquiring as to duty have studied
demn the Church, either Jewish or Christian? Did not God the Old and New Testament prophecies carefullv,_. ”YOU have
institute the Jewish Church? Yes, and for a purpose. That a strong conviction of what is-truth.
purpose was to shadow forth, through the law, which was You understand that the word come in Matt. 23 : 36 : 24 : 14 :
committed unto them, “good things to come”; for they “could 24~50; Luke 12:46; Heb. 10:37; Rev. 3:3. and some others:
never with those sacriflcee which they offered year by year is in the Greek heko, and signifies “to habe come, be here,,’
continually make the comers thereunto perfect: for then not future tense. but nresent. And in Matt. 24 :3. Parousia.
would they not have ceased to be offered . . . . for it is not a being along&& presence.
possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away What shall be the sign of thy coming? (presence.) “WHEEE
sins.” (Heb. 10: 1, 2, 4.) “The way into the holiest of all is the promise of his coming?” (presence.) This very inquiry,
was not yet made manifest while as the first tabernacle was prophetically given by Peter (2 Peter 3 :4), is most literally
yet standing; which was a figure for the time then present, in fulfilled; almost the exact words being used by those who
which were offered both gifts and sacrifices that could not sneer at his presence.
make him that did the service perfect as pertaining to the They see no evidence of his presence; “all things continue
conscience.” Heb. 9 : 8. as they were.” They profess to be spiritually-minded, but
But there came a time when the Jewish Church should reason according to the fleshly mind. Professing spiritual
have known that its mission in that particular phase was sight, they reason ( 9) about seeing Jesus with their physi-
ended; bdt, owing to its pride, love of self, having an imposing cal sight.
ceremonial service and love of the “applause of men,” it over- If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” Do
looked God’s purposes, and “knew noi ?he time” of its “visita- not imagine that the winter is over, because we have had
tion,” and Jesus, in sorrow. said. “If thou hadst known. even some cold weather (do not forget that we are speaking of
THOiJ (mark well the words, “even THOU") at LEAST in this spiritual things) ; for be ye assured it is just coming on; and
THY DAY, the things that belong unto thy peace, but now they though you may have put off “your flight,” yet the longer you
are hid from thine eves.” Luke 19:42. 44. defer it, the harder it will be for you.
The nominal Christian Church, instituted by Jesus, is in a One of the greatest trials will be the desire, augmented by
similar condition of unconsciousness regarding the time of the exhortation, to look after spiritual children (proselytes
her visitation, and for similar reasons. to “the Church”) ; but Jesus said, “Woe unto them that are
She has purposes of her own, and thinks, or suppose8 they with child, and to them that give suck in those days. A
are God‘s purposes, but so intent is she upon self-aggrandize- failure to observe God’s orderly method brings disaster, even
ment, that she cares not to review the lessons of the great if it is a desire to make a nice sacrifice to him. See 1 Sam.
teacher, lest she should be under the necessity of modiiying 15:15-17, 22, “To obey is better than 8acrifice.”
her views. and that would wound her nride. SHE modifv her Our choice was, that as he could not come in, we would
views! ! ‘Is she not infallible? “As ‘is the mother, d are “go out to meet him,” for we loved him best. It cost us a
the daughters.” hard struggle, but it was a struggle once for all, and we
Undutiful children, they speak lightly to the gay world have not seen an hour in which we would undo it if we
of the egotistic assumptions of their aged mother, while their could. How much we see now in connection with him. which
assumptions are in some respects greater and fully as absurd. we never could have seen but for nearness to him. We’had no
They are not slow to speak of a certain aged woman as ill-will for anv individual in “the Church.” and that made
a “mother of harlots,” while everybody knows that that same it all the harder. But “the Church” was “making the Word
old lady is their mother. The same record that tells us of the of God of no effect” through their tradition, and we knew it.
disreputable character of the aged matron, gives us no Should we stay, and by staying say to the world that we
intimation that she had any daughters of a different character. endorsed its teaching?
And while they are thus traducing the character of their In conclusion we would say to any who are inquiring,
mother and expatiating upon their own purity, the gay “What is my duty?” that if you believe “the Church” is
world turns its face aside to avoid the corrupt breath, and teaching ‘present truth,” and is approved of the Lord, we
takes a furtive glance at the scanty garments that scarce would advise you to remain in it; for under such circum-
hide the shame of their nakedness. (See Rev. 3: 18.) stances you would be as well in it as out of it, and temporally,
Some may say as they read these lines, “0 what bitter- probably better. If you belong to the Church in spirit,
ness and hate of the Church,” to which we answer: Not at there is no reason for leaving it. It all depends upon which
all: fur from it. We are saying, in the same way, in the life you are most desirous to save. If you desire, above all
same spirit, and for the same purpose, that which the Spirit things, to save your present social and ecclesiastical life,
said through John “unto the churches.” In fact, we believe including reputation, then by all means stay where you are, for
the same Spirit prompts us to repeat the same ttiings, and that is the way to do it (Matt. 16:25), but should you
though plain and straight, they are in love. Rev. 3:19, 20, count these as Paul did, “but loss for the excellency of the
21, 22. knowledge of Christ Jesus,” you must expect to have your
The same “head of the corner” is present and being name cast out as evil, but with this will be connected a
“rejected” by the builders now, that was rejected by the blessing. (Matt. 16 :22. ) Then you can fulfill, as we do, the
builders Before. To be sure, they did not know that they following verse, 23d.
were rejecting Him, (Luke 23:34) but they did not walrt to In connection with this subject let us study carefully the
know. They “desired none of his ways.” If anyone who is 18th chapter of Revelation, with parallel Scriptures, and
still in fellowship with any of the “daughters” referred to see that we get an understanding of them. “After these
and is becoming aware of “the pleasure” of Him in whom things.” (1st verse.) What things? After all the things
his “soul delighteth,” think we are in error about the churches related up to that point had been &complished. Now, study
rejecting Him, just let them announce that He is present, the whole chapter, and be sure to rret the “mind of the
“at the door”; let them offer to “open the door,” and all Spirit.” But -should some one say & you, “There is no
uncertainty will soon vanish. Such will soon discover not use studying Revelation, no one understands that; there is
only what is duty, but what is necessity, for they would no use reading it”’ then read to them the third verse of the
have to hold their peace or change their relation, that is, first chapter of the book, and tell them that by the grace
if the past is an example for the future. of God you will at least TRY to get an understanding of it,
The question, ‘What is my duty?” resolves itself into this: for you are after that blessing. J. C. SUNDERTIN.

SPARE NOT
TheChristian Church as a witness for God in the world There is a little flock, there is a true Church, but its members
has failed, like the Jewish nation, and became apostate. are scattered abroad and almost invisible in the great
C5911
(6) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSRURGIX, PA.

Babylon; they are the seven thousand who have not bowed he has sent, in which life eternal lies. Like the Pharisees
the knee to Baal; they are called, and chosen and faithful, of old, it stands as the great obstruction, neither itself enter-
who follow the Lamb; they are those who have turned to ing the kingdom, nor suffering those who would to enter in.
God. from idols. to serve the living and true God. and to The name of God is blasphemed among the nations, by reason
wait for His Son from heaven; they are those who have of the corruption of the professing church; the light that
not the form only, but the power of godliness; those who should have been in it is become darkness, and great is that
keen themselves unsnotted from the world, and overcome darkness ! The Church is confounded with the world, and the
through faith. They-are found in every section of the pro- true saints are strangers in its society. It is no longer the
fessing church, and the Lord knoweth those that are His- pillar and ground of the truth-it is the hot-bed of heresy,
“They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in the day false doctrine, and corruption of every kind. What contrast
when I make up my jewels.” can be more complete than that between the Church as Christ
But for the rest-for the vast nrofessina bodv which bears intended it to be, and the Church as it now exists in the
the name Christ, it has not continued in th> goodness of God; world! An end must come to all this ! Not only does the
it has turned his grace into licentiousnessj its sentence is Word of God predict it, not only does our own sense of
cone forth. it must be “cut off.” The loner-sufferine of God righteousness demand it, but the solemn analogies of history
has been abundantly manifested; it is right that “his holy distinctly intimate it. Let the undeniable fact that past
severity should be again revealed. The professing church apostasies brought down the judgment they deserved, fore-
has lone been unworthy of the sacred name it bears, and warn men what must be the end of existing apostasy of the
of the ‘high and holy responsibility of becoming God’s professing people of God. Babylon must fall ! Great Babylon
witness on earth. which belones to it. It is time it should must come in remembrance before God, who will give unto
cease to hold the position Tt has so fearfully forfeited. her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath. for
Instead of being the instrument of spreading the truth of her sins hake reached unto heaven and God hath remembered
the Gospel among men, it is the worst hindrance to their her iniquities--H. G. GUINNESS.
attaining that knowledge of God, and of Jesus Christ whom
-

THE DAY OF THE LORD*

l The article in last issue entitled THE MANNER OF THE SECONDhVENT, should have been headed, DISCOURSE No. 4.
DISUOURSE No. 6
“The great day of His wrath is come; who shall be able to stand?” (Rev. 6: 17.)
The “Dav of the Lord” is a term which, strictly speaking, We expect that this distress and trouble will all come
refers to the whole period during which Christ will-be-present, about in a very natural way. Very many Scriptures seem
or the entire Millennial Ace. But it is eenerallv annlied in to teach that the kingdoms of the earth will be over-
the Scriptures to the co&g or beginning-of that” da?.; to the thrown by an uprising of the people, goaded to desperation
period of time during which the Gospel and Millennial Ages from the sense of injustice, and seeking relief from oppression.
lap, the one ending and the other commencing. Such an uprising and overturning, Socialists, Nihilists and
Concerning it we read, “The day of the Lord is darkness, Communists of today would gladly bring about if they could.
and not light.” (Amos 5: 18.) It is “the great day of his Though the Scriptures recognize wrong and oppression as
wrath.” This dark day is at once the closing scene of the existine in the eovernments of the nations. and foretell this
night of weeping and the dawn of the morning of joy. And to be %he means of their overthrow, yet’ they do not au-
we would invite your attention, not merely to the scri tural thorize God’s children to oppose them. They show us that
evidence that there will be such a day, but especia Ply to some agencies not in themselves good, will be made use of
the events that will transpire during that day, and their in destroying present evil governments, thus accomplishing
chronological order. the Lord’s purpose, though they will not be aware that they
This time of trouble comes Arst upon the Church, and are being so used. “Surely the wrath of man shall praise
afterward upon the world; but in our-examination we will thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.” (Psalm
consider first the trouble of the nations durine the dav of the 76:lO.)
Lord. This trouble will be the natural con&quenci of the In harmony with this are the words of the Anostle
transfer of rulership from the Devil, who is the prince of this James (6: l-4,- Diaglott)-“Come now, ye rich, weep and
world, (John 14:30) to “him whose right it is”-Christ howl for vour miseries that are anDroachinn. Your riches
(Ezek. 21:27.) And referring to that time, it is said, (%t\d have decayed, and your garments -have becgme moth-eaten.
the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come.” ‘. Your gold and silver have become rusted, and the rust of
11:18.) them will be for a testimony against you, and will eat
Unquestionably the kingdoms of this world are loyal to your bodies as fire. [The rich will share in the trouble
their prince. They are mainly controlled by selfish, and fre- of the nations because so closely identified with them].
quently by corrupt men, who, though unconsciously, have be- You have laid up treasures for the Last Days. Behold !
come the representatives of the prince of darkness working that hire which you fraudulently withheld from those labor-
his will. But when the rightful King takes control, he de- ers who harvested your fields, cries out; and the loud cries
clares, “I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms, and I will of the reapers have entered into the ears of the Lord of
destroy the strength of the kingdom of the nations.” (Hag. Armies.”
2 :22.) And thus “the kinedoms of this world shall become Rev. 6: 15-17 describes the distress of that time, saying,
the kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ.” (Rev. 11: 15.) “The kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich
First they must be brought to submission by chastisement, men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men., and every
and then we read that all people, nations and languages shall bond man, and every free man, hid themselves m the dens
serve him (Daniel 7: 14, 27.) and in the rocks of the mountains; and said to the moun-
The trouble is graphically described by the Prophet: tains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of
“That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the
a day of- wastene& and desolation; a day of darkness and Lamb: for the great day of his -wrath is come, and who shall
eloominess. . . . . I will brine distress unon men. that thev be able to stand?” The nowers of earth will seek to make
ihall walk like blind men, because they have sinned again& alliances with one anothir for self-protection, and to hide
the Lord. . . . . Neither their silver nor their gold shall be themselves from the sure-coming storm. And individuals will
able to deliver them in the day of the Lord’s wrath.” (Zeph. seek to be covered and nrotected bv the ereat mountains
1: 15-18.) “Therefore wait ye upon me, saith the Lord, until (kingdoms) of earth, and ‘to be hid ii the g;eat BOOKS (pro-
the day that I rise up to the p>ey : for my determination is tective secret societies). But they shall not be able to deliver
to gather the nations. that I mav assemble the kingdoms. to them in the dav of the Lord’s aneer: for all the kinedoms
pour upon them mine indignatioi, even all my Aerze anger; of the world shall be thrown d&n,* and instead of-these
for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy. the kingdom of the Lord becomes a great kingdom, and 511s
For then will I turn to the people a ure language, that the the whole earth. (Dan. 2:35-45.)
may all call upon the name of the I! ord, to serve Him wit 4 Malachi (4 : 1) describes the coming day of trouble, and
one consent.” (Zeph. 3 :8, 9.) So extreme is the trouble sees the anger of the Lord there displayed-the 5re of
here described that the world is figurativelv said to be burned God’s jealousy : “Behold the day cometh that shall burn
up by the Lord’s anger. Yet the effect “is good, for after as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly,
this indignation aeainst and destruction of kinzdoms. the shall be stubble: and the dav that cometh shall burn them
people remain. and”are so affected by the troublewthat ‘%hey ” Here the wicked are symbolized by stubble God’s wrath
serve the Lord with one consent.‘, $-fire, and the righteous by calves of the stall ‘(verse 2).
c3921
FERRVARY. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (7)

Peter describes this day of the Lord (2 Peter 3: lo), and harvest is in the day of the Lord-after Christ has come pcr-
under the symbol of heavens refers to the governments- sonallv a second time.
the higher or ruling powers. “But the day of the Lord will The. parable of the wheat and tares (Matt. 13) gives us
come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall a sketch of the Church’s history from beginning to end.
pass away with a great noise [overthrow of governments, with Jesus and the Apostles planted the good seed (truth,) which
great confusion] and the elements shall melt with fervent sprang up and brought- forth whea;. But while men elept
heat; the earth also, and the works that are therein shall the enemv brought in tares. until now the Church nominal
be burned up.” The elements of the (heavens) govern- abounds with t&es, and a great separation becomes necee-
ments, as well as of (earth) society in general, will be sary, that the true. wheat rniy be separated from the false.
dissolved in the great trouble (fire) of that day. And this separating and gathering time is termed a harvest.
The Scriptures also teach that while other nations fall The Lord foresaw and intended that wheat and tares
during the day of the Lord, the long cast off nation of should grow together, for he said, “Let both grow together
Israel will gradually come into prominence and be established until the harvest.” In the time of harvest the senaratine
in the land nromised to their forefathers. They will doubt- work is to be accomplished. W h e n the division is’ accom”-
less go to Palestine, not through respect to promises of God plished, the wheat alone will represent the kingdom or Church
of national restoration. but with true Jewish nercention of Christ, while the Church nominal will fall and be broken.
they will realize before ‘others the danger to which- roperty, W e are led to believe from various Scriptures that this
Bc., will be exposed, and choose to be far away 4rom the fall of the ereat mass of the Church nominal. will be caused bv
strongholds of communism. Persecution and various other the spread%f infidelity, which seems to be described, in Psalm
circumstances will also serve to drive them thither. 91, ai a great pestilence. There will be but one ‘class that
Yet even there they will not long remain secure, for the will be exempt from its evil influence. and that will be those
Lord shows us through the Prophet Ezekiel (chap. 38) that Christians who have made the Most High their habitation, and
when gathered out of all nations and dwelling safely, having who are acquainted with the Word of God. A thousand shall
silver and gold and cattle and goods, many nations shall fall at their side, and ten thousand at their right hand; but
come UD aaainst them to take a snoil and a prey; but the the pestilence shall not come nigh them, because they have
Lord shall Deliver them with a maiked deliverance; -as in the taken HIS TBUTH, and not human tradition, as their shield
dav* of battle in former times. And in this deliverance thev and buckler.
shall recoenize his hand and the Messiah, their deliverer. ” This answers the question of our text-“W h o shall be able
Zech. ‘14: 1-4 describes the battle then fought. “Behold to stand 7” This is the company, but it is only a little flock,
the daw of the Lord cometh. and thv snails shall be divided in as our Lord foretold it would be. These shall be accounted
the midst of thee. For i will gather all nations against worthy to escape all those things coming on the world, and
Jerusalem to battle; and the city shall be taken and the shall STAND in the presence of the Son of Man. (Luke 21:36.)
houses rifled, and half of the city shall go forth into captivity.” “And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that dav
Here God interposes and defends them, and here they come when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them as k
to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. “Then shall the Lord man spareth his own son that serveth him” IMal. 3:17.)
eo forth and fiaht against those nations as when he fought Bui there is a class mentioned, and I fear they are not
yn the day of b&tle,,Las he fought for them in olden times. few, who, while servants, are not faithful servants, waiting
Thev will recognize the Lord in their miraculous deliverance for the Lord, but who are engaged in revelry, eating and
from their enegies. He shall be revealed in flaming fire taking drinking with the world. “The Lord of that servant shall
vengeance. (2 Thes. 1:s.) come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour
In Zech. 12:3. God declares that he will deliver them. that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder and
though all the people of the earth be gathered against them: appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be
Verse 10 describes their recognition of Him whom they have weeping and gnashing of the teeth.” (Matt. 24:51.)
nierced. and their sorrow when. in that dav. God “nours unon These are not hypocrites, but unfaithful servants. who
ihem the spirit of grace and supplication? - ’ thereby lose the reward to ‘which the faithful attain; but
THE DAY OF THE LORD TO THE OHUBOH through the Lord’s mercy they may come up out of great
The Church’s trial or iudement. which has been eoina on tribulation by washing their robes (Rev. 7: 14) ; and though
during this age, ends in *this-day of the Lord. Pa<1 p&its not privileged to be the bride of Christ, to which high office
to this day as the time for the consummation of the Church’s they were called, they are invited to the marriage supper
hope, saying : “He which hath begun a good work in you of the Lamb. (Rev. 19 :Q.) Alas! it would seem that there
will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Phil. 1:6.) are many such t&-gins, but not wise-wheat, but not ripe
He expected to rejoice in the day of Jesus Christ that he had wheat, not ready to be garnered. They are living far below
not run in vain. neither labored in vain: and he ureed the their privilege, and will suffer great loss.
Church also to so labor and so run, that they mighx share Unlike these will be the “little flock” who obey the Master’s
in the same rejoicing in that day. (Phil. 2:14-l&) And when injunction to “watch,” and who follow his example of self-
about to die he aointed forward to the dav of the Lord as sacrifice. He did not tell us just when the dawn of the day
the time when he might expect his reward, “saying: “I have would come, for he wanted to keep us continually on the
fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept watch. But when the time should come, he shows that such
the faith: henceforth there is laid UD for me a crown of watching ones would know it. Referring to the signs of
righteousness, which the Lord, the righieous Judge, shall give his coming and the end of the age, he said, “W h e n ye shall
me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.”
that love his annearing.” Matt. 24 : 33.
Again this ‘i’s callzd the Day of Redem tion, and the Paul says, in 1 Thes. 6: 1, 2, “Of the times and seasons.
saints are said to be sealed unto the dav of re z emntion. fEnh. brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you, for your-
4:30.) And the Holy Spirit of promise Which we rkeived‘aflter selves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh
that we believed, is the earnest of our inheritance, until the re- as a thief in the night”-to the world, as the next verse
demption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his shows. The world will know nothing of what is coming,
elorv. (Enh. 1:13, 14.) and will be taken unawares; and many of the Lord’s aervants
What i’s the purchased possession? It is all that Christ having fallen asleep, are not watching as commanded. Some
boueht with his blood: it includes the world of nature- are overcharged with the cares of this life, and some are
“I “will give thee the uttermost parts of the earth for thy intoxicated with the spirit of the world; only a few are
pO88C88iOTL” ( PSa. 2 : 8.) watching. W ill these know? Yes, ‘Ye brethren are not
It includes the world of humanity, who are brought back in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye
bv the Second Adam to all they lost in the first; for “Jesus are the children of light, and the children of the day; we
Christ, by the grace of God, tasted death for every man.” are not of the night nor of darkness. Therefore, let us not
But evidentlv the nurchased nossession here referred to is sleep as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” (1 Thes.
the Bride of ChGistc%hrist lov6d the church, and gave him- 5:4-t%)
self for it, that he might present it to himself i glorious W e have a steady lamp to guide our feet, a sure word
church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing.” (Eph. of prophecy unto which we do well to take heed as unto a
5 :27.) This is the special possession, which he purchased, light shining in a dark place until the day dawn. Let
which still awaits redemption-for “we ourselves goan us keep our lamp trimmed and burning and ourselves
within ourselves, waitine for the adontion. to wit: the redemv- awake and watching. Our lamp shows that the great
tion of our body,,-the body of which ‘Christ is the head. day of the Lord has already come, that the harvest
(Rom. 8:23.) work is progressing under the direction of the Lord of the
The end of this dispensation to the Church is a harvest harvest, now present. The faithful bride is even now making
whirh chronologically precedes the world’s troubles. This herself ready and soon will enter into the joys of her Lord.
l-311 c5931
 DECLINE OF FAITH
The invisible, the supernatural, the divine, seem to be un- do we believe ? We deal in make-believes, and fill up the hol-
loosing themselves from our grasp, dissolving into unreali- lowness thus created with pleasant dreams, for thorough be.
ties and uncertainties, which we are fain to call mysteries in lieving would be limitation and finality, unworthy of intel-
order to persuade ourselves that we have not quite lost all, ligent humanity-subjection to a superhuman will and a mind
or at least that we have got something in their place! In- outside of our own. The recognition of anything as true
visible personalities lose all reality, and Him who is infinitely beyond the circle of our senses would land us in the super-
nersonal. the Kinn eternal. immortal and invisible. we often natural ; and the supernatural is fast becoming to multi-
Bnd the ‘most di&ult of all to realize. tudes, but a wondrous da-V-dream-a fable of the mystic
Faith thus ceases to be faith, even when retaining the name; ages, .like Homer’s Olympus, -or Virgil’s Elysium.
for faith is the recognition of truth as certainty, not as The believing faculty of the age seems to be undergoing
probability. It is no longer the substance of things hoped a change, or as our modern thinkers would say, “undergoing
for, or the evidence of things not seen. At the best it is but repairs.” Its sphere is considered to have been too wide on
a struggle to believe, a struggle against some adverse power some sides. and too narrow on others. Is it safe to credit
that is unconsciously drawing us backward. With manv it what lies beyond the sweep of scientific vision ? is the question
seems rather a desire not to-believe, a secret preference. for that has broken in upon us with much earnestness. To de-
doubt, as nobler and more indenendent than faith. We grone. liver oppressed humanity from the trammels with which the
and pray, and strive, and weip, but the reality comes” n&f faith of centuries has fettered it, is reckoned the chief mis-
nay it seems to recede farther from us every day. sion of modern culture. This deliverance is to be achieved by
The age tosses, like a fevered man upon his sick-bed, seek- first landing us in doubt, that out of that or unbelief a truer,
ing rest but finding none. It tries variety, as men in quest nobler faith may grow. The Christendom of the past has been,
of health try change of air. It rejects finality or complete- it is supposed, the Christendom of credulity; the Christen-
ness, as associated with mental weakness, boasts are into dom of faith is now dawning. The credulity of the middle
the region of uncertainty, not of certainty; into the domain ages accepted miracles in thousands without evidence. Will
of hypothesis, not of induction and demonstration. They the new faith of the nineteenth or twentieth century signalize
vanish successively in vapor, and leave only pestilence behind itself by rejecting miracles, though certified by all the proof
them. The guesses at truth, numerous as they are, often that the most trusted history has to rest upon? The
plausible, sometimes beautiful, are the results more of founders of the new Christianity, the introducers of the
fermentation than of life or growth. Christ that is to be, think the supernatural a defect
Along with the believing heart the desire for its return or blot upon the Bible. The defenders of the old Christianity,
has gone out with many, and the materials for faith are the believers in the Christ that is, cannot conceive of a Bible
silently disappearing. Faith itself is regarded rather as without the supernatural and would deem the absence of
a prison-house than a palace-a restraint upon thought, not the supernatural from any professed revelation a sufficient
an instrument for its development--linked with bondage, not proof that it could not have come from God.--H. Bonar.
with liberty. We see, and hear, and touch, and taste, but

INFIDELS NOT MARTYRS

Modern infidelity waxes eloquent over the Romish and Domitian and Caligula were infidels, and every histonan
sectarian uersecutions. We have no obiections to this when is aware of the fact that panoramic views of their reigns are
the tran&ctione are properly located; and duly credited horrible companion pieces. to the reign of Nero. Says Prof
where they belong. But there is a wholesale way of throwing Tvndall. “The sufferines of the earlv Christians and the extra-
all the iniquity in one direction, and quietly appropriating all o;dinary exaltation 07 mind which enabled them to triumph
the honors of martyrdom, which is not only unjust, but abso- over the diabolical tortures to which they were subjected,
lutely untruthful. must have left traces not easily effaced.”
How ouietlv, for instance, the French revolution with its And yet a prominent skeptic declares in the face of an in-
unparalleled h-&rors is slipped over by infidel orators and telligent public, “You have burned us at the stake, roasted us
writers. The evident reason for this is that it was solelv the upon slow fires, torn our flesh with irons; you have covered us
work of infidelitv. The infidel legislature of France declared, with chains, you have filled the world with fear, you have
“There is no God but reason.” They wrote upon the church: taken our wives and children from our arms,” etc.
vard gates. “Death is an eternal sleen.” and nroclaimed Zibertv We ask in the name of simple truth and common justice.
if cokw&e to all; but, inside oi’ forty-iight hours, with Who is it that have suffered these things? The answer comes
genuine infidel consistency, they began to lead to the rack or from every page of history, that it is the followers of Christ
the illotine every one who dared to assert that liberty. who have clung to him through the fires of persecution and
‘%fldelity is liberty;” yes, liberty to destroy, liberty to floods of misfoitune. They w&e believers in. the Bible who
defame, liberty to crush all true religion; and when it holds went to the stake. else whv were Bibles burned with them in
the reins of Dower here as it held them in France. the nurest the flames ? Men do not “submit to have their tongues cut
blood of the’ nation will run through our streets as it ran out, to be thrown to wild beasts, or to perish in slow fires,
through the streets of Paris in 1792 and 1794. History de- in preference to recanting from a position which they have
clares that 2.730 murders were committed in the name and never assumed.
for the sake of infidelity, during the space of sixteen months. C&us was not crucified. Porphyry was not banished.
Sero was an infidel, and we commend the history of his Julian did not suffer. save at the hands of his own conscience.
reign to the attention of every man and woman. Tacitus tells Voltaire was not thrown into a caldron of boiling oil.
us that Nero inflicted the most exquisite torture upon the It was men, women, yes, and children who clung to the writ-
Christians. He says they “died in torments, and their tor- ten Word, when fire and flames and irons and lash were the re-
ments were embittered by insult. Some were nailed upon ward for .their fidelity. They have been driven to mountains
crosses, others were sewed up in skins of wild animals and and caverns, to wander in sheep skins and goat skins, they of
exposed to the fury of dogs, -others again were smeared over whom the world is not worthv.
with combustible material and used as torches to illuminate It is still the “pillar of cl&d” by day, and the “pillar of
the darkness of night.” Says Gibbon, “The most skeptical fire” in the nightime of persecution, and thus it will ever be
criticism is obliged to respect the truth of this most extra- until the weary feet of God’s little ones find rest upon the
ordinary fact, and the integrity of this celebrated passage.” evergreen shore of eternal life.--dirs. H. V. Reed.

BISMA~CK has taken many a long step toward practical labor shall have a larger share of business profits than it now
socialism; France has tried more than one fearful experience receives, or the laborers will tube it by forcef
to save herself from the dangers of communism; American This is one of the initial problems of the present; it will
cities are trembling in the presence of a growling imperative be the dangerous problem of the future, unless we begin to
proletaire. We may now close our eyes and ears against the study it and to solve it at once. The pledge given in the Re-
claim of the laboring man, but we cannot do so long. Labor- publican platform to labor that “the American workingmen
ers may be unreasonable, may “strike” and fail as signally as shall have a fair day’s wages for a fair day’s work” is as
the telegraphers did a few weeks ago, nevertheless they will essential as any other in that platform, and it will be as
yet force capital or State to hear them and to hear very faithfully kept. It is a point of honor and of safety on which
thoughtfully, too. The property of the country is passing in- there will soon be but a single voice and purpose among the
creasingly into the hands of the few; the voting power IS in American people. We are now in the period of discussion, we
control of the many. The time will probably yet come when shall soon be in the midst of experiment and of action.-gel.
either the State or the parties themselves will determine that
[594]
 MY PRAYER
Being perplexed, I say, Being in doubt, I say,
Lord, make it right! Lord. make it niain !
Night is as day to Thee, Which ‘is the trui, safe way,
Darkness is light. Which would be vain?
I am afraid to touch I am not wise to know,
Things that involve so much. Nor sure of foot to go;
My gembiing hand may shake, My blind eyes cannot see
Mv unskilled hand mav break: What is so clear to Thee-
Tgine can make no mistake. Lord, make it clear to me.

THE UNION OF PROTESTANTS AND CATHOLICS

In the February number of the Century magazine, just pub- stand up against the current of modern skeptical thought. It
lished. there is a suggestive article in the editorial depart- requires the aid of the more steadfast and uncompromising
ment hiscussing the p&biiities and probabilities “of a re;nion body the more because many of its leading exponent.8 and
in the future between the Roman Catholic and Protestant some of its chiefs who have hitherto been most trusted, are
bodies.” opening the gates of the fortress of faith to the hosts of in-
The discussion of that subject in such a place is peculiarly fidelity. Even if they are not doing that, they are parleying
sienificant. because the Centuw. though a secular Deriodicai. with them, when there can only be war to the knife between
h& always been conducted wit’d speciii reference t’o meetina the two.
the tastes and steering clear of th< prejudices of the average There is no possible compromise between theology and
Protestant Dubiic. Its original editor. Dr. Holland. was a modern infideiitv. The Church must understand that. at
strict Caiviiist, and its chkf owner ahd manager, h;Ir. ROS- the beginning. dne or the other must triumph, and its victory
well Smith, is a prominent and pronounced Presbyterian. will mean the utter destruction of the conquered. While the
The Century takes for its text the celebration of the four great contest is going on, intestine divisions must weaken the
hundredth anniversary of Luther’s birth, which, it says, arm of faith, and we are not surprised that intelligent Prot-
brought to view the fact that “the religious reformation of estants desire to heal them.--iv. Y. Sun.
the last four centuries has not been confined to the churches The above we clip from The CathoEzc, of this city. It goes
of the Reformers. A constant reformation in discipline, if to substantiate the teachings of the TONED that the difference
not in doctrine,” it thinks, “has been going on in the Church between the various daughters and the “mother” is more in
assailed by Luther.” forms, ceremonies and intereets rather than in real differences
So premising, this Protestant exponent shows that bonds of faith. The daughters have adhered so closely to the gen
of sympathy are now joining Catholics and Protestants to era1 plans. precepts and methods of the “mother” in their
a degree which twenty-five years ago could not have been an- housekeeping that you can readily recognize heI “marks”
ticipated. It sees especially the growth of a feeling that throughout. (Rev. 13: 16.)
these two great bodies of Christians need to be united to As for reform, while there has been some moral reform
resist the onset of modern infidelity. and advancement in the nominal Church, as well as in the
“As a conflict with Materialism and Agnosticism has been world, yet so far as doctrinal reform goes, there has been prac
waxing hotter and hotter,” to use the words of the Century, ticaiiy none. The creeds of the daughters. as well as of the
“it must have become evident to intelligent Protestants that moth&, are cast-iron-they cannot b&d; they must break, or
they have in the Roman Catholic theologians a strong body else those held by them continue in bondage to the views of
of allies, with whom they ought to maintain friendly relations. the sixteenth century. Under such circumstances a doctritlal
It is not the Papacy, nor Calvinism, nor Trinitarianism, nor reformation is impossible, both to Protestants and Roman
any other secondary Christian dogma, that is now on its Catholics. That which is absolutely true and perfect cannot
trial,” it says further, “but whether there is any such thing be reformed; and is not every creed of every sect held up as
as religion-whether there is a conscious God and a life be- being the truth in full? If not, why make it a test of feiiow-
yond the grave, and a free will, and a moral law.” ship at ail ? n’hy subscribe to and bind yourself to believe
The Century also renders just tribute to the exalted ethical and sustain that which does not claim to be the tru tk!
standards of the Roman Church, and also to its courage and It is for this reason that we (and God’s Word also) are
consistency in maintaining them against ail efforts at compro- opposed to formulated creeds. They fetter and bind the chii-
mise. It acknowledges, for instance, that “the Roman Catho- dren of God, preventing growth “in grace and knowledge,” and
lic doctrine and practice regarding divorce are much closer to thereby hinder the reformation of doctrine, which should
the law of the New Testament than those of the Protestant continue until we ail come to a full appreciation of the rere-
Churches have been.” It speaks also of the “earnest effort at iation of God to man. Thus alone can we walk in the path
the present time to bring the practice of the Protestant of “the just,” which “shineth more and more unto the PERFECT
Churches a little nearer to the Roman Catholic standard.” DAY.”
Ail this is in line with what we have repeatedly said. It On the contrary, as heretofore shown, the doctrines taueht
becomes more and more evident every day that the civilized by Luther on miny subjects were far in advance of th&e
world is dividing into two classes, the believers and the un- held by the body of Christians calling themselves by his name.
bohevers, the Cl&istians and the Agnostics. The separation Unknown to the majority of Lutherans, several Points of
between them is not like that between Catholics and Protes- Luther’s original PRO&ST-nailed to the church doe; of Wit-
tants, which is caused by difference of dogma and ecclesiastical temburg are intentionally omitted by the “authorities” in that
practice, while both agree on fundamental points of theology. sect from the articles now handed them as the original teach-
1 t is total; for modern unbelief does not attack portions of ings of the HEAD of their Church.
the faith only, but rejects the whole, abandoning faith aito- Doctrinally and practically, Protestantism has been draw
gether. In its view, Christianity has no more supernatural ing closer and closer every year to the parent system. TiltlJ
basis than the mythologies which it has succeeded. have made “ala image” (Rev. 13: 14) which so closely rtx-
The ultimate union of ail the forces of faith and theology sembles the original that few points of difference are tils;c~rrn-
to meet such an enemy, steadily increasing in numbers and ibie, either by themselves or by the world. But what a wid<b
audacity, seems therefore to be inevitable. Protestantism difference exists between both these systems and the doc~trlnc,
needs an alliance with Roman Catholicism to enable it to and practices of the Apostles’ day!

MINISTERIAL AUTHORITY OF TODAY

We doubt whether any change in the training of clergymen the man in the pew. Presumably the c~it~rgymnn IS struggilng
will enable them to take that position of authority among to find the right road upward. If he has found it he is ac-
men which would have been accorded to them unsought fifty repted as a guide. If he has solved any problem of the day
years ago. People hare learned in the meantime to prove ail his words will be listened to with respect and gratitude. But
things and ail men ; to look through ail fictitious claims; to it will he because he has solved the problem. not bec.~uar he
go below costumes and oflice and rank, to the human soul un- stands in the pulpit. -4uthority has ii~rp~~l~ left the otlice.
derneath. They will not learn the lesson. The man in the but it has descended with double force upon the man.-&-
pulpit will be to them always, as now, a fellow-sinner with chungr.
[695] (8)
- __-- -
YOL. 1 PITTSBURGH, PA., MARCH, 1884 No. 8
A~ -- .__ ~- -__

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

The “lenten season” as observed especially by the Roman We purpose commemorating the Lord’s Supper on its anni-
Catholic and the Episcopal Churches, is upon us, and despite versary this year also; and suggest to the saints everywhere
the extravagant excesses practiced by these ceremonious observance of the Master’s words-“THIS DO in remembrance
friends, the season calls before the memory of all thoughtful of me” (Luke 22: 12). We can assure ‘you it will be a blessed
saints pictures of the last days of Jesus. One thing is cer- season of communion to all the houseliold of faith, and espe-
tain, the remembrance of that time and of our Lord’s suffer- ciallv to those who are of the “first born” class. Around
ings and death are not calculated to overthrow faith in the that”hour the memories of the year w.ill cluster while the heart
r:&som, nor to lead men to deny that the Lord bought them. sings :
It was the custom of the earlv Church to celebrate the “Sweet the moments rich in blessing
Lord’s Supper and death on the aniiversary of the same, every Which before the cross I spend,
year, and the observance yet of “Good Friday,” by some, is Life and health and peace possessing
what yet lingers of the original custom of the Church. From the sinners’ dying Friend.”
We can but recognize the appropriateness of celebrating any
event on its annioersary, and for several years past we have The Jewish “Feast of Passover” commenced on the fifteenth
enjoyed the privilege of thus commemorating the antitypical day of their month Nisan (answering this vear to our April
Passover Sacrifice-the Lamb of God which taketh away the 9th) and lasted seven days. This lye do iot commemornte,
sin of the world. but the acts of a day preceding it-the killing of the lamb on
The appropriateness of the time has always heightened the the 14th of Nisan, which beginning at 6 o’clock Tuesday eve-
interest and rendered it more impressively solemn and real. ning April 8th, will end with 6 o’clock Wednesday evening,
As we nartake of the emblems of his shed blood and broken April 9th, 1884.
body, it’ impresses upon us the words and scenes of the first The church at Pittsburgh will meet at 7 :30 p. m. Tuesday
Supper, and of the sacrifice for sins which it illustrated, and evening in the upper room of No. 101 Federal Street, Alleghevy
aives us to realize more fully the value of the “precious blood” City, and break the bread and drink the fruit of the vme 111
ihat cleanseth from all sin. - remembrance of our Lord and Redeemer, and go forth remem-
The Lord’s Sunner is a reminder of his death. as the Pass- hering Gethsemane, and Pilate’s court, and Herod’s soldiers and
over was a type oi’it. Jesus fulfilled the latter and instituted Calvary, where the sacrifice was “FINSIIEIP at 3 o’clock p. m.
the former in the same night in which he was betrayed., and following (April 9th) over eighteen hundred years ago.
told his disciples that henceforth they should DO THIS In re- For a more detailed account of our view of this matter
membrance of him-not now in remembrance of the typical we refer you to the TOWER of April last year. We trust to
Lamb’s death and its results, but in remembrance of ME-the hear of the enjoyment of this season by the ones and twos and
true Lamb of God whose sacrifice procures still a greater pass- tens scattered everywhere, for “even Christ our Passover is
over and deliverance for the Church of the first-born. sacrificed for us” ( 1st C’or. 5 :7 ) .

INTERESTING LETTERS
Pittsburgh, Texas, March 3, 1884. Evil Was Permitted,” I became deeply intrrrsted in it. It
DEAB BRO. RUSSELL:-I am always thirsting for the litera- seems very good for thinking sinners as well as Christians.
ture of the TOWER before it come8 to me every month. Having I am a reformed man now, having been down in the gutter
been excluded from the nominal Church about eight months many a time through intoxicating drink. though I have not
ago for endorsing the doctrines as advocated by you, my com- tasted any now for over a year. May God help me to keep from
fort is in reading the Bible with the helps published by your- it. Having just read the little book, I see that you will send
self. others, and by so doing you will oblige me. I would like to
As a young minister of the Baptist Church, my preaching lead a better -life, and 6ecome a Christian. I cannot see fully
was verv accentable until I saw the glorious doctrine of resto- into the realitv of religion, but mav the Lord onen mv heart
ration, &d p&ached it, when I was excluded from the Church and eyes to tge great iove he has ior them that’ fear ‘slim. I
which I was serving. I pray earnestly, “Thy kingdom come.” will try to make good use of anything you send.
Mav God bless vou (as a Dart of the new mouthpiece, the old Brooklun. N. P:
be&g spewed o& ) in you; effort to spread the- glad tidings DEAB SIR AND BRDTHER :-I thank you for sending me the
of great joy which shall be to all people. I get a very clear TO~EK Jt has eiven me much lieht*. and comfort. I nresume
1
view of the glorious teachings of the shadowy service, believ- my time for reiding will soon close, as I have entered my
ing its glori&. “The TaberGacle” tract is unsurpassed as an eighty-fifth year; but if you will be kind enough still to send
exnlanation of the Bible on that subiect. Still I have doubts it, I shall be much pleased, and will pray for God’s blessing
of’m$ being among the priesthood-ihe way is so exceedingly to attend you in your labors of love.
narrow. Yet I often rejoice when my doubts temporarily re- I would gladly circulate tracts or leaflets that you may
move with joy inexpressible and full of glory. I think I love have on hand if sent, as I have not much to do at present,
my Bible better, since the light of the “due time” begins to and would like to work a little in the Lord’s vineyard while
shine on its sacred pages, than ever before. here, bv circula.ting that light which is so freelv offered. If
My humble prayer and burning desire is that I may be you ‘hive any tracts on h&d, I should like m&h to get a
nmong that immortal band. I praise the name of God for few. I have lent and eiven awav all that I had to narties
the possibility of such. that will make good u& of them’: and there are othe;s that
Yours in brotherly love, I should like to have read them. I always use caution “not
Chicago, 111.9~ to cast pearls before swine” to trample on or destroy.
DEAR F~r~~~s:-Having picked up one of Tour little books I am, dear sir, yours truly, in the bonds of Christian love.
on the street, called “Food for Thinking Chriqtlans,” and “Why

“THE UNION OF PROTESTANTS AND CATHOLICS”

We quote from The Catholic of this city, its reply to the wind it is at last reaping the whirlwind. Thoughtful minds
editorial under the above caption in the Century Magazine are beginning to see and recognize the dimensions of the com-
which we noticed in our columns last month. Truly the gath- ing storm, and are anxious to save themselves from its
ering storm is bringing to the Nominal Church fearful aipre- strength and fury, by an alliance offensive and defensive, with
hensions of danger and utter wreck. The loud boastings of the Catholic Church. In the Februarv number of the Centurzl
both these hoar) headed and decaying systems of error are Magazine, there is a very suggestive article in the editor&
only the efforts of each to conceal their unrest and to guard department, discussing the possibilities and probabilities of
against what the fearful forbodings of some term “a religious “a reunion in the future between the Roman Catholic and
panic.” Protestant bodies.” There is a peculiar significance in the dis-
“The Catholic” says : cussion of such a subject in a periodical, which though secular
Protestantism, which was and is, a revolt against the in tone, yet has for its original editor, Dr. Holland, a strict
divinely established authority of the Catholic Church, is seri- Calvinist; and its present chief owner and manager, Mr. Ros-
ouslp alarmed hv the revolt of one of its own very legitimate well Smith, we understand, is a prominent and pronounced
children-Jfaterialiqm. Agnosticism, Infidelity, or whatever else Presbyterian.
the thing may be known by-against itself. Having sown the We can forgive the “Century” writer, because of his ear-
(l-2) [5961
MARCH, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (2)

nestnesa and honesty of purpose, which can be traced from nor Calvinism, nor Trinitarianism, nor any other secondary
the beginning to the end of the article, the many serious errors Christian dogma, that is now on trial,” proclaim8 the writer
into which his ignolnnce of Catholic teaching and practice has further on, but “whether there is such thing as religion-
doubtless led him. whether there is a conscious God and a life beyond the grave,
The four hundredth anniversary of Luther’8 birth, and the and a free will, and a moral law.” For the last four cen-
discussions that its celebration called forth, supply the writer turies, Catholic theologians and writers have been in vain
with a text. He says that the Lutheran celebration brought telling Protestants that their principles would land them ex-
to view the fact that “the religious reformation of the last actly here. The early so-called reformers denied free will, and
four centuries has not been confined to the Church of the re- by their doctrine of justification by faith alone, practically
formers. A constant reformation in discioline, if not in doc- discarded a moral law.
trine,” he thinks, “has been going on in ‘the Church assailed The “Century” readily acknowledges and pays a just
bv the German ex-monk.” We need hardlv remind our readers tribute to the exalted ethical standards of the Catholic Church.
o> the two very grave errors in this pa*ssage. There can be and to its courage and consistency in maintaining them against
no reform of doctrine in the Catholic Church. Catholic faith all efforts of c&promise.-For instance, it openly lays-down
is unchangeable, whilst a disciplinary reform is always in that “the Roman Catholic doctrine and m-actice resnectina
order, not only during the last four centuries, but constantly, divorce are much closer to the law of t6e New Tes’tameni
from the very beginning. than those of the Protestant Churches have been.” It also
But we are more interested, if possible, in the admissions speaks of an “earnest effort, at the present time, to bring the
which the writer makes, and the present tendencies of Prot- piactice of the Protestant Churchis a little nearer to the
cstantism that he notes, than in dealing with the well-mean- Catholic standard.” Luther and Henrv of Ensland made short
ing mistakes he falls into on the Catholic side of the ques- work of the New Testament law regulating t’he marriage con-
tion. This Protestant exponent shows that the bonds of sym- tract. And whilst leading Protestant ministers openly counte-
r>athv are now ioinine Catholic8 and Protestants to a degree. nance and recognize the looseness, not to say, shamelessness,
&hi& twenty-fi;e yeays age could not have been anticipitedl of modern divo;ce law and practice, there is little reason to
He sees the growth of a feeline that these two bodies of Chris- hope that the Protestant Churches will be brought any nearer
tians need tg be united to resyst the encroachments of modern to the Catholic standard.
infidelity. Protestantism, twenty-five years ago, was boastful Whilst we fully recognize the kind disposition and earnest-
and disdainful of the Catholic Church, todavY it is Dowerless
1 ness of the writer, who is, doubtless, alarmed by what he, in
and helpless, when its own children-modern infidels-are common with many others, is daily witnessing in Protestantism
using against itself the very weapons which itself has been and its tendencies, it is simp!y folly to think of any feasible
using for the last four centuries against the Catholic Church. plan of union between Catholics and Protestants, such as this
This makes all the difference in the world, and our Protestant well-meaning writer would propose. The only union that can
friends are desirous, quite naturally so, of calling to their as- be effected, is for our Protestant friends who are desirous to
sistance the aid, sorely needed, of their Catholic neighbors. escape from being submerged by the deluge of modern infidel-
Hear the language of ihe “Century” editor: “As the conflict itv. to seek safetv in the divinelv fashioned ark-the Catholic
with Materialism and Agnosticism has been waxing hotter 6&rch. Against” this stately, winderfully, supernaturally con-
and hotter, it must have become evident to intelligent Prot- structed vessel, the winds and the waves, and the fierce storm3
estants that thev have in the Roman Catholic theoloeians a of nineteen eventful centuries have beaten in vain, because of
strong body of theologian8 with whom they ought to n&ntain the abiding presence of Him therein, “whom the winds and
friendly relations. It is not Protestantism, nor the Papacy, the sea obey.”

ASSEMBLING TOGETHER
“Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.
as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Heb. 10:24, 25.
The necessity for assembling together for mutual edifica- without attaining the object sought, because God was shut out.
tion, encouragement and strengthening, has been very general- Again it is the aim of some in their undue desire for har-
ly acknowledged among ChrisGans, y& we doubt if -th<s most mony, to avoid the investigation of any subject which might
desirable end is verv freouentlv attained, because we think, in provoke controversy. This, we think, is manifestly wrong.
most cases, God is “not krmitied to speak among them, 0; if Shall we sell the truth to purchase harmony ? and are we sn
so, he is limited. The assembling5 together most frequently nuffed UD as to be offended if God’s word should overthrow
A I

take the form of prayer and experience meetings, unless there our former convictions? Or shall we limit God to five or ten
is one of the number who is able to preach, and then the minutes, and take the remainder of two hours to listen to
tendency is to depend upon that one to a greater extent than each others’ experiences, which in nine cases out of ten would
is profitable. We think that in meetings of Christians, much be better untold? Why not open the doors wide. nnd let the
t&e should be given to the study of >he Scriptures. blessed Master come in and lead our meetings?
The writer attended one of these experience meetings It matters not whether there is any one learned or tal-
among those professing the higher life, whe;e God was almoit ented among you. Let each one bring his own Bible. paper
shut out, and poor, weak humanity, ignorant of its weakness and pencil, and avail yourselves of as many helps in the wn)
as it always is, had abundant opportunity to boast itself. At of a Concordance, Em. Diaplott, old and new versions of the
the beginn-ing of the meeting, o& text of Scripture was read, New Testament, etc., as po&ible. Choose your subject: a+k
the context of which all were ignorant of, and conseuuentlv for the Soirit’s guidance in the understanding of it ; then rr.ltl.
its true application could not b’l understood. The dear ol& think, co&pare Yscripture with scripture, an;l vou fill a+hu~
book was closed and reverently laid aside, and a prayer was edly be guided into truth. “And the truth &III make \ OH
offered, after which. one after another told how he or she felt free”-free from error, superstition, and the corruption of ;u1
and acted. One told how before rising in the morning she perverse nature, and. the Holy Spirit (mind of God and
received her morsel of food (a single text of Scripture) on Christ 1 if entertained will liberate rou. from folmnlitr as
which she fed all day. How many do so-taking a text that well ai from self-exaltation.
happens to be store-d in memory, often interp:eting it out Our prayers need not be long or vain repetitions of the
of all harmony with the context, because thev fail to examine same thing, since we are not heard for our much speaking.
it closely, taking a little crumb bf comfort w&en the Lord has In few and simple nolds ae can make knotIn out wants no
spread his bountiful table and invited them to feast at it. far as we can estimate them: but God h;iq so much mow to
Over an hour passed, and the human spirit had magnified tell us than we linw to tell him. Let kf 1)) spctrk niucli nnd
itself greatly, while the Holy Spirit (Godlike mind) of the long and often throtcgh Itis Il-ord. ‘*S;lnctif$ them tliroug!
“new creatures” (for such we believe they were), was almost thy truth; thy word is truth,” was Jesus’ prayer; and 111s
quenched. A brother seemed to perceive that something was admonition. “Search the Scriptures, for these nrc they thnt
wrong, and said, “What these meetings want is more prayer,” testify of me.” (.Tohn 17:17 and 5:39.) So will we lc:irn to
and then proceeded to pray for everything he could think of, delight ourselves in God’s Law: it will be our medit:ltion Iby
ignorant of the fact that he asked for many things in direct night and by day. (Ps. 119.97.) So. also. will lie work III
opposition to God’s expressed will. And so the meeting closed us to will and to do of llis good plensulc. ( Phil. 3. 1’1 1
R. W.

[597]
 THE DAY IS AT HAND
Poor, fainting spirit, still hold on thy wny- The night of life is mournful, but look on-
The dawn is near! The dawn is near!
True, thou art weary; but yon brighter ray Soon will earth’s shadowy scenes and forms be gone;
Becomes more clear. Yield not to fear!
Bear up a little longer; wait for rest: The mountain’s summit will, ere long, be gained,
Yield not to slumber, though with toil oppressed. And the bright world of joy and peace attained.
“Joyful through hope.” thy motto still must be-
The dawn is near!
What glories will that dawn unfold to thee!
Be of good cheer!
Gird up thy loins ; bind sandals on thy feet:
The way is dark and long; the end is sweet.
--Selected.

WHEN W ILL CHRIST COME?

DISCOURSE No. VI
In our last two discourses we think we proved scripturally that Christ was born on time-“Zn the fulness of time” God
that our Lord’s second coming will be of such a character that sent his only-begotten Son, (Gal. 4 :4). ‘Not before, nor after,
at first it will not be recognized bv the world. They will eat, but iust when the time was full. Christ’s first sermon was on
drink, build, marry, etc., ai usual,“and will not know that the time”. He came preaching and saying, “The time is fulfi&~
dnv of the Lord hss come. Since his presence is that of a repent and believe the Gospel.” (Mark 1:X).
spiritual body invisible to human eves, he cannot be discovered due’ ime, Christ died.” (Rom. 5 :6). He rose aeain the third
by the sight -of the eye. And to guard against the deceptions day, according to the S&iptures.” ( 1 Cor. 15:4). During
of antichrist, Jesus warned the Church not to expect him in his ministrv thev freauentlv soueht to take him. but could not
any such way, saying, “Wherefore, if they shall say unto you, ‘Lbecause his ho\r w’as no’t yet”come.” And just as surely
Behold he is in the desert: PO not forth: behold he is in the there is a due time for the Second Advent; and if now be the
iecret chamber, believe it ho%,” because he does not so come. due time. the Spirit will guide God’s faithful children into the
How important to bear in mind the manner of his coming, truth on. this subject. First, however, as we shall go largely
as we considered it last Lord’s day. to the Old Testament Scrintures. we ston for a moment to in-
At the first advent he did meet with them in the secret quire : Have we anything io do ‘with thkse Scriptures, or are
chamber and in the wilderness; he was then the Word made we to derive all our instruction from the New Testament? I
flesh; he was then in the form of a servant for the suffering am almost ashamed to raise such a question, and would not,
of death. But at the second advent he comes in the glory but that I am satisfied that many Christian people hold this
of his Father (a sniritual bodv) which no man hath seen. opinion. One of the pastors of this city, a few days since, re
nor can see. (1 Tim. 6:lG.) ”’ proved a member or the flock for quoting as of anv force a
Jesus said. “-4s the lightning, so shall the Son of man be etatement of the prophets. For shame ! ‘0, for shame ! ! To
in his day,” (Matt. 24; 27 ; Luke 17 :24). Man can see bv what did Jesus refer, when he said, “Search the Scrintures”?
the destruction it leaves, where the lightning has been: so, in Surely to the Old Testament, since’not one word of ihe New
the day of the Lord. men will come to recognize by the na- was then written. What Scriptures did the Bereans search
tional trouble and overturning that the great day of his daily? The Old Testament. What Scripture did Christ ex-
wrath is come. plain to the disciples going to Emmaus when their hearts
But while the world moves on in ignorance of the fact that burned within them while he onened unto them the Scrintures?
the Lord is again present, should we expect the Church of The Old Testament. In whiih was “Apollos mighti,” and
Christ to be in the same darkness with reference to a fact of of which did Paul say to Timothy, “From a child thou hast
such interest to them? Certainly not. We should expect, how- known the Holy Scri tures”? And again, “All Scripture, given
ever, that the great mass of those claiming to be of the Church, by inspiration of Go B , is profitable; that the man of God may
vet unfaithful to God. would be under the same veil of ieno- be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good work.” And
rance that covers the world. Those who are faithfully wat&ing one reason why some men of God are so imperfectly furnished
unto the “sure word of prophecy” will know of his presence. is that they lay aside more than two-thirds of God’s Word, the
“Ye brethren are not in darkness that that dav should come Old Testam.ent, which Paul savs would be m-of&-de to them.
upon you as a thief.” ( 1 Thes. 5: 1-5). So highly did Peter esteem thelprophecy of the’Old Testament,
We have already answered objections against inquiring into that he considered it better evidence than his own sight; and
the time of Christ’s coming; and merely remark now that after telling of Christ’s transfiguration “on the holy mount,”
whereas neither Christ’s disciples, TKW angels, “neither the and that it was given him as an evidence of the coming king
Son,” knew of the time of his coming when Christ spoke dom of Christ. he savs. (2 Pet. 1:19) “We have a more sure
those words, yet, when “he comes, with all his holy angels,” word of propheoy; whereunto ye do ‘well that ye take heed,
those angels will know, Christ himself will know, and all of ;;~,4” a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day
the Church who are not in darkness, shall know. But “if
thou shalt not watch, thou shalt not know.” The Chriitian Peter corroborates Paul’s statement that it is profitable;
who does not watch will be overtaken of that day just as the and informs us that it will continue to be useful “until the
world is overtaken. day dawn.” The Old Testament is a great treasure-house in
The prophets foretold things which they did not themselves which God has locked up and sealed %ems of great interest
understand: for instance, Daniel, having seen a vision reach- and value to his children. and the New Testament is the kev
ing away into the future, upon making inquiry as to the by which we gain access to them. Let us now examine whit
time, was told: “Go thy way, Daniel, for the words are closed the sure word of prophecy says on the time of Christ’s com-
up and sealed till the time of the end;” then “knowledge shall ing. There are several prophetic claims to which I desire to
be increased, and the wise shall understand, but none of the call your attention-one shows the length of the Gospel dis-
wicked shall understand.” (Dan. 12:9; 4:lO) ; neither shall pensation; but not directly; it does not read right out, The
the unwatching servant and the unwise Virgins, adds our Lord. Gospel dispensation will close in A. D.-. No, that would not
(Jiatt. 25). Peter speaks of this, and said that the prophets have been “sealed up” at all, and not only wise and watching,
inauired and searched dilinentlv as to what time, or what man- but all could understand that without difficulty.
& of time the Spirit did signify [i. e., whether the time No, it is not told so, but while just as plain as that, yet
given them was literal or symbolic time], unto whom it was re- it is under cmer. and vou will see that it could not be under-
vealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us [the Gospel stood without the New Testament key.
Church] they did minister. (1 Pet. 10, 12). They were u&d God has linked together the history of the Jewish and
as God’s mouth-pieces simply, and laid up treasures of wisdom Gosnel Churches bv the peculiar tie of tvpe and anti-tvne:
and knowledge which are developed and made manifest during and-this typical character’of the Jewish dikpensation was” ire-
the Gospel age, a little at a time, as “meat in due season”, by quently referred to by the Apostles under the direction of the
the Holy Spirit sent down from heaven, whose office is to Holv Spirit.
guide the faithful Church into all truth. From them we learn that it was typical in all its features
Our God is a God of order. Evervthing that God does is in
Y v
-its laws (Heb. 10 : 1) . its ceremonies (Heb. 9 : 9), its sac-
accordance with a definitely pre-arranged plan, and the times rifices (Heb: 10: 11) . it& sacred days, its times and seasons
and seasons are no msigmficant part, of that plan. Notice (Col. 2 : 16, 17 ) , and also its duration, as we shall see.
(3) [598]
MARCH. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (3-4)

If God has thus, in the Jewish dispensation, given us an their fathers; and first (before I so bring them back) I will
exact nattern of the Gosnel disnensation. that uattern is itself recompense their iniquity and their sin I&BLE”-Verse’ 18.
a prophecy. And what ‘a clea; revelation of iruth should it The word here translated double is the Hebrew word mishneh
be to us, who stand amid the closing scenes of the Gospel age, and signifies, a repetition. The repetition can refer to nothing
when nearlv all of that nronhecv has nassed into historV! With else than the time. It was not a repetition of the same method
the keys furnished in the New Testament, the faithful-student of dealing with them; for he just states that he will deal dif-
may now clearly read the times and seasons indicated. ferently-he will cast them off and show them No fmor, etc.
Paul shows that the blind, cast-off condition of Israel is to And it is now a fact of history that the time of their cast-off
continue until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in (Rom. condition has been an exact repetition in length of their time
11; 25). Their casting off from God’s favor, and consequent of favor, that is 1,845 years ending in 1878. They had 1,846
blindness, began at the end of the Jewish age, and will termin- years @or and 37 years fall. They have had 1,845 years with-
ate at the end of the Gospel age. So if we find the time of out favor, and will have 37 years of rising. But, some may
returning favor to fleshly Israel clearly indicated, we may think we base a great deal upon that one prophetic statement,
know that the fulness of the Gentiles has been gathered in. and inquire, Are there other evidences? Yes, there are; but I
[Into what or where will be a question for future considera- dare to trust to one statement, of one prophet; for he is a
tion.] In other words, the end of the Gospel age will have mouthpiece of God, who cannot lie.
been reached. Let us hear Zechariah (9:9), who will tell us the very da\
We have already seen the teaching of the word of God to they were cast off. Just five days before his crucifixion, Jesus
be that in the next, commonly called the Millennial age, Israel rode into Jerusalem on an ass in fulfillment of this prophecy.
is to be restored, Jerusalem rebuilt and reinhabited, and that “Rejoice greatly, 0 daughter of Zion; shout, 0 daughter of
t,he Jewish nation is to become the chief nation, and “Jeru- Jerusalem: Behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just,
salem a praise in the whole earth.” When will this be ? Do and having salvation; lowly and riding upon an ass and upon
the prophets tell 7 Yes. The prophets teach that Israel, once a colt the foal of an ass.” Nationally, they did not receive
God’s specially favored people, who had “much advantage every Him with shouts of rejoicing; but the multitude shouted,
way, to whom were committed the oracles [O. T.] of God,” Hosannah! For “if these should hold their peace, the very
would reject Christ, and, in consequence, would become out- stones would cry out.” The prophecy demanded shouting and
casts from God’s favor as a chastisement for their national must be fulfilled. “Turn you to your stronghold, ye prisoners of
sin, and for the same length of time that they had had his hope : ” Christ was their stronghold, had they but received
special favor ; after which time they should again return to Him; but they rejected Him, and therefore comes the denuncia-
God’s favor and forgiveness. Now let us briefly glance at their tion. “Even today do I declare that I will render double unto
history and then I will refer you to the prophecy which so thee.” [Literal--The other half.] This agrees with Jeremiah,
predicts. and tells us the very day the favor toward them ended. Yes,
The nation began its existence at the death of Jacob, in says Paul, “because of unbelief they were blinded.” Jesus wept
Egypt. While he lived theV were not counted a nation, but a over them, and said “If thou hadst known, even thou, at least
family, and in his dying blessing for the first time they are in this thy day, the things which belong to thy peace, but ~EOIU
called tribes. The promise of national blessing and favor was they are hid from thine eyes.” This was their blindness. Then
given through Judah. “The sceptre shall not depart from he begins to foretell the trouble coming. (Luke 19:41-44).
.Tntlah. nor a law-giver from between his feet, until Shiloh But another prophet has a message on this subjec&Isaiah
[Christ] come.” This God fulfilled, and though he often chas- 40: 1. Here are the three principal prophets, all explaining to
tised them, and allowed them to go into captivity for their us about Israel, but they take different standpoints of oh-
sins: yet he always showed them favor, brought them back, servation. Jeremiah says, looking down future, “I will cast
and preserved their national existence through Judah, as he you out,” etc. Zechariah’s standpoint of prophecy was beside
hxd promised, and did not utterly cast them off from him until .Jesus on the colt, and he says, “Even t0da.y.” Isaiah takes
thev had reiected and crucified the Lord of elorv. a neriod of his stand away down here, where you and I live, after thev
1 .Ak5 years.” Since that time, as they themse”lves ‘say-bitterly, have had their equal time of punishment. Hear him: “Com-
God has shown them IIO favor; they have been outcasts “a re- fort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God; speak ye com-
proach and a hissing among all neoole.” (Jer. 29 : 18). Since fortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her that her appointed
their chastisement was to be of &the same length, as the favor tzme [margin] is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned;
nreviouslv shown, it will be 1.845 vears. It began with the for she hath received of the Lord’s hand double for all her
crucifixion of Christ. A. D. 33. and the 1.845 V”ears of their sins.”
punishment, consequently ended in 1878. But we must not ex- “Believest thou the prophets?” I do. And when Jeremiah
pect too much in a das. ,43 thev were 37 vears in falling na- foretells that because of sin and iniquity they would have
tionally-from A. D. -33, to A.” D. 70, w-hen their natIona double, and Isaiah that that double having been ended the sin
existence terminated: so their rising again to favor and na- and iniquity is pardoned, I cannot help believing it. But let
tional prominence will require the same length of time, and us inquire whether 1878 brought any outward sign of God’s
will therefore not be complete until 37 years after 1878, or returning fccvorl I answer yes. The fig tree, which was with-
until the close of 1914. We also find another and distinctlv ered up from the roots (Israel), is beginning to “put forth
separate line of prophecy (which we will give at another time )“, leaves.” The year 1878 witnessed an end of Turkish oppres-
teaching that they wrll not obtain full control of Palestine sion in Palestine, and by the treaty of Berlin a Hebrelo, as
until A. D. 1914. which gives a period of 37 Vears for their Prime Minister of one of the greatest of nations, assumes its
rising, or a parallel to th; time of their falling. Where is the protection and guarantees its peace. And recently the state-
Scripture which proves that their chastisement is equal to the ment is published that the Rothschilds, Sir Mont&ore, and other
favor that they once enjoyed ? you ask. Turn with me to Jer. wealthy Hebrews, have arranged for the purchase and coloniza-
16.13-18 and read: “Therefore [because of sins before men- tion of Palestine. And Russian persecutions are now driving
tioned], will I cast Vou out of this land into a land that ve many thither. Truly, favor seems to be returning.
know iit, neither yenor your fathers; and there ye shall serve Bub where is the measure of the Gospel dispensation? Paul
other nods [rulers1 dav and night: where I will not show uou furnishes us the key for this in the text before mentioned
favor.” This was not “the Babylonian captivity, for Abraham (Rom. 11:25) : “I would not, brethren, that ye should be
came from Ur of the Chaldees. Neither could the Syrian cap- ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own
tivity be thus referred to, for Jacob was a Syrian (Deut. conceits ; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until
26 : 5 ) , and this was to be “a land that ye know not, neither do the fullness of the Gentiles be come in”-that is, Iirael will re-
ye nor your fathers.” This was to be their punishment: They main blinded until the full company of the Gospel Church-
were to receive no favor from God, but were to be driven out the Bride, being taken out from the Gentiles for His nnme-
of their own land, and, as the next verse shows, were to be- have been selected, or have come into covenant relation with
come exiles in every land, just as we now find them. him, and thereby separated from the world. To express the
They have always looked back to their deliverance from same thought differently : while the Jews were cast off as
Egypt as a great and marvelous sign of God’s favor to them; a people for 1845 years, from A. D. 33 to A. D. 1878, was the
but their deliverance now soon to be consummated, will be so time appointed for the selecting of all who will be part of the
much greater that it will quite eclipse the former one. Let us Bride of Christ.
readJ‘ Therefore, behold t‘he days come, saith the Lord, that But as favor continued to individual Israelites, after that
it shall no more be said. The Lord liveth that broueht UD the house as a whole was rejected, so after the rejection of the
children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; but”the-‘L%i Gospel house (the nominal Church) as a whole, special faVor
liveth. that brought up the children of Israel from the land of to individual saints is still continued. The Apostles and earlv
the North [Russia, where the greatest number of them are disciples, the “remnant” of Israel (Ram. 9:27) received the
found], and from all the lands whither He had driven them ; increase of knowledge and high privileges then due to the
and I will bring them again into their land, that I gave unto Gospel age, while all the rest of Israel were blind to them.
15991
(4) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PmssuacH, Pt.

So here, the same class, the meek and faithful of the Gospel the Jewish house, as a whole, with reference to its high priv-
house, receive the increase of knowledge due in the dawn of ilege. But as a people their ears were dull of hearing, and
the Millennial Age, and by means of this clear apprehension they “knew not the time of their visitation.” Though this was
of the truth are being completed and perfected for their place true of that house as a whole, yet there were scattered indi-
in the glorious kingdom shortly to be made manifest. viduals here and there among them who were ready to believe
Since the two houses of Israel-the Jewish and Gospel and follow the Master as soon as the truth could be made clear
houses-stand in relation to each other as type and anti-type, to them. To this class the remaining three and a half years
let us notice some of the parallels: of harvest work was devoted. The sickle of truth nresented to
The law was a shadow of good things to come, and in the them separated them from the rejected and bliided Jewish
C-me1 dispensation we find the substance which cast those house, and brought them under the Gospel dispensation of
shadows. We must bear in mind also that the shadow is not favor.
the substance, but that it has marked features of similarity. This seven years is the “seventieth week” of Danl. 9.
The Jewish house was a house of servants-“Moses was Seventy weeks (symbolic time, weeks of years instead of days,)
fsithful in all his house as a servant.” The Gospel house is a or 490 years, were set apart or determined upon Daniel’s peo-
house of sons-“Christ as a son over his own house, whose ple, the Jews. Sixty-nine of these reach to Messiah, the prince.
house are we.” (Heb. 3 :5, 6. ) The founder of the typical (Christ came as the Messiah at the time of his bantism. when
house was Jacob, surnamed Israel; the founder of the anti- he began his ministry, being thirty years old.) r~Ih the midst
typical house was Christ, the true Israel of God. The typical of the week [the seventieth] Messiah shall be cut off [die]
house was founded on the twelve sons of Jacob, the anti-typical but not for himself.” (“He was wounded for our transgres-
on the twelve Apostles. sions.“) But, though cut off, and though their Church was
In worship also they are pattern and reality. The pattern left desolate, yet, as the prophet had predicted, “He shall con-
had a tabernacle into which the typical High Priest went every firm the covenant [seventy weeks’ agreement] with many for
vear to make a tvnical atonement. We have the true one week,” i. e., until the full lim it of the promised seventy.
iabernncle, into whi<h- the true High Priest has entered for Accordingly, Jesus charges his disci les to “begin at Jeru-
US. ( Heb. 6 : 20. ) And. as in due time the tvnical High Priest salem” with the Gosnel messaee. an 8. rt was confined to the
came‘out to bless the people typically, so th;‘real High Priest Jews until the seven6eth week-ended-three and a half years
will in due time come out to bless all the world. after Jesus’ death.
There were under-priests there, who wore bonnets to indi- So the Gospel dispensation is the anti-type of all this. Its
cate that they were not the head, or High Priest, while Aaron, harvest also is seven years, plus thirty-three, beginning in
their head, wore none. So we are told that the true Church, 1874, where another line of Scripture proves Christ’s presence
the bodv or bride of Christ, is likewise a priesthood, and that to be due, and continuing seven years, in which the ripe wheat
Christ Jesus is the head or High Priest of our profession. is being- garnered
-. and separated from tares, and thirty-three
(Heb. 3 : 1.) As thev offered tvnical sacrifices. SO we mav of consummg and removing the nominal system. The fullness
offer up spiritual sacrifices, holy: ‘acceptable to God by Jesui (the elect number and membershin) of the Gosnel Church was
Christ. 1 Pet. 2:5. due to come into covenant relation with God-in 1878, when
They had circumcision of the flesh; we, says Paul, have Israel’s time of favor was due to begin; and yet, although the
circumcision of the heart. (Rom. 2 :29.) They had a temple nominal Church was then cast off, and that house left desolate,
in which God’s presence was represented; and Paul tells us the chosen vessels yet ilt that house must be separated and
that we, the Church, are built together a holy temple for the gathered into the barn, a position of safety and security, above
indwelling of God through the Spirit. (Eph. 2:22.) In fact the trouble which is coming on the Church nominal. That
everything that they had was a type of what we have on the favor, ending in the fall of 1881, found all true wheat sepa-
higher, spiritual plane. rated, at least in spirit, from the rejected, lukewarm, fallen,
Their dispensation ended with a harvest, in which harvest- nominal Church. And all such gathered into this separate
time Jesus was present in the flesh as Lord of the harvest, and condition, will be ready to separate from it in name and per-
the faithful disciples who followed in his footprints were son as they discover this to be the Lord’s will.
privileged to be co-workers with him in reaping the fleshly The time of trouble coming on the Church nominal is for
house and gathering the ripened grain into the Gospel gamer the nurnose of gathering out of his kincrdom I Church) all
-into the privileged condition of the Gospel saints. In the things that offend. (Malt. 13:41.) They shall be swept out
beginning of that harvest Jesus said to his disciDles. “Lift UD by the incoming flood of infidelity, overthrown by the winds
vo”ur eve”e and look on the fields, for they are white already & of false doctrine, and flnallv burnt UD bv the scathing re-
harvest. I send you to reap,” etc. John 4 ~35-38. - proach of the world when it “comes to fully- discover Babylon’s
Just so the anti-tvnical or Gosnel disnensation ends with a hvnocrisv. Blessed is the man who has built his house unon
harvest, at which t&B Jesus is again due to be present, not t&6 rock-with the gold and silver and precious stones of truth.
now as then in the flesh, but in glory, a spiritual being, in- The floods may come and the winds may blow and beat upon
visible to human eves. Sav not now that there are yet manv that house, and the fire may test it, but it shall stand. Thus
years and then cometh hawest; but, ye faithful children &f shall long-established and corrupt systems, claiming to be the
God. lift UD vour eves and look on the fields now. for thev Church of Christ. PO down in comnlete wreck. and above its
are ‘white already to” harvest. And every faithful disciple whb ruins the real, the-true and faithful ChurchLa “little flock”
now follows in the Master’s footprints has the privilege now -shall with Christ their head establish the glorious reign of
of being a co-worker with him in reaping this harvest. Such righteousness.
are the-angels or messengers referred’ to-in Matt. 13 :39, who If these things are so, we are living in an important time,
are reaning under his direction. And he directs them throueh and upon our present decisions and actions the weighty in:
the Word by opening their understanding to discern the times terests of our future hinge. It behooves us. then. to take
and seasons there indicated, and the work to be accomplished heed lest our hearts be ove&harged with the cares of this life.
therein. Let us lay aside every weight and run with patience. And see-
Their harvest was a period of seven years, beginning with ing we look for such things, what manner of persons ought
our Lord’s ministry ; and up to the time of his death (a period we to be in all holy conversation and godliness-as the pros-
of three and a half years) special effort was made to enlrghten pective bride of Christ making herself ready.

HAS THE MASTER NEED OF MY SERVICE?

It is a part of the economy of God, as well as of all right- he has a definite purpose to accomplish through us. Since
thinking men, to seek to accomplish desired ends with the there is actual service to be accomplished, and God has chosen
smallest possible outlay of expense. While in God, and in to use human inst rumentalities in accomplishing it, there is
all his perfect creatures, there is a beautiful balancing of this then actual need of faithful service, though God’s resources
principle with that of justice and benevolence, in fallen man are by no means exhausted when you or I refuse the privilege.
it has generally overleaped the bounds of love and justice. In that case the loss is ours, not his. When the toil and weari-
But in the proper use of this principle of our nature, it is ness and sacrifice are ended, we will have no need to say, I
right to inquire, Is there any use or necessity for this or that have labored in vain; I have spent my strength for naught.
course? Recognizing this rinciple, God does not call upon us Because there is need for actual service, we are exhorted
to do anything that is use Pess. Though we may not always be to be faithful, diligent, obedient servants, always abounding in
able to discover the design of his commands, it is a sufllcient the work of the Lord, to make full proof of our own ministry,
guarantee of their necessity and good to know that he com- to so invest our one or many talents as to secure the greatest
man&. lf then, he has called us into his service, it is because possible advantage to the Master’s cause. It was because
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MARCH, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

Paul and others of similar mould realized the necessity and his all. Ah, say they, the Lord has no need of that little; he
privilege of such service, that they so boldly undertook the is rich, and can accomplish his work without it. Well, that is
great work of stemming the popular tide, and proclaiming the true with reference to others, but without your full and com-
glorious Gospel at the risk of life and every earthly good. plete sacrifice of all, he cannot accomplish the work of bring-
Ah, says one, that is placing too high an estimate upon ing you to the glory to which you are called. And so far as
human effort. God is able to accomplish his work if I never others are concerned, he will raise up some other human
touch it. Yes, that is very true; but, if you do not touch agency through which to minister to them.
it, some one else will, and you will lose the privilege. Did It is his purpose to accomplish the great work in hand,
you ever think of that? Beware! Let no man take thy largely through human agents, under the direction and lead-
crown! 0, how easy it is just here to fall short of over- ing of his Spirit. And if one human instrument withdraws
coming! from the service, another will fill the gap. Whether the Lord
One will say, Well, I have only this one talent, and I have could have accomplished his work through other means is not
need to use that for myself. It would not bring a very large for us to surmise; but since this is the method that infinite
interest if I should invest it for the Lord. If, lrke some oth;r wisdom chose, who are we that we could devise a better? Let
brother or sister, I had many talents, it would seem to be of us see to it then that we work in harmony with his plans,
some use, and I would heartily invest nearly all for the Lord. faithfully utilizing every available talent in his s&vice.
Another, with more talents, will cheerfully render much, but “Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when he cometh shall
hold back part of that which he covenanted to give, which was find him so doing.” Matt. 24:46. MRS. C. T. R.

“SAY YE NOT, A CONFEDERACY’*

ISA. 8 : 9-20
A confederacy is a league or covenant, a compact or alliance look to the Word of God for instruction. And that instruc-
for mutual support or common action. “In union there is tion is given plainly and clearly-“For,” says the Prophet,
strength,” is everywhere the expressed sentiment of today. taking his standpoint down here in our time, “the Lord spake
Confederacv-Union-is the watchword in civil, social, and thus to me with a strong hand, a.nd instructed me that I
religious circles. This sentiment now so common, has bown should not walk in the wai of this peo le, saying, Say ye not,
out of the felt necessities of the times, and the fear of coming A confederacv, to all them to whom t Ifi*1s people shall say. A
trouble and danger. confederacy; -ieither fear ye their fear nor be afraid. Sanctify
The prince gf this world (John 12:31) sees the approach- the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let
ing storm. He believes and trembles at the sure word of him be vour dread. And he shall be for a sanctuary.”
pr&hecy which indicates the overthrow of his power; but Thus instructed we should have nothing to do with these
with chiracteristic genius, energy and presumption, he arrays confederacies either civil. social or relidous. We are to walk
himself to onDose. and if uossible to thwart the plans of the separate from all these, ‘joined only to”the Lord and loyal to
Almighty. rt present ana for some time past he has been the kingdom of God a.s yet unrecognized by the world. We
actively engaged in planning, organizing and arranging his are to have no confederacy, no union with any other. The
unconscious forces. We are glad in one sense to say uncon- Lord’s Prophet speaks most emphatically concerning the out-
scious, for to be the conscious and willing servants of Satan come of all these confederacies.
would imply a fearful state of depravity. And yet we would Thus we read (Isa. 8 :9. 10) “Associate yourselves, 0, ye
that men were not so blinded as to be unconsciously led by people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all Ye
their wily and deceptive foe. of far countries: gird vourselves and ve shall be broken in
Leagues or confederacies are forming all over the world. pieces. Take co&&e1 t;gether and it ihall come to naught;
The kingdoms are forming alliances for mutual protection speak the word and it shall not stand.” How plain and forci-
against the increasing independence and power of their sub- ble these expressions ! They need no comment; and only the
l&s. while communism or socialism is secretly plotting and unbelief in the Word of God-the spirit of infidelity-in the
jorming its world-wide confederacy to resist enihioned power. church nominal, prevents them from understanding their im-
Caoitalists are forminn alliances with each other to mote& port.
the’ir interests, while the laboring classes are also conibining In the Lord of hosts alone is our sanctuary, our defence,
their forces for self-protection. and all who would walk with him must walk separate from
In religious circles we see the same policy pursued. The the world. Those who thus walk with the Lord are so led
two great classes most bitterly opposed to one another are into the knowledge of his plans, that those things which
so-called 01 thodoxy and Infidelity. Each is struggling for cause fear and trembling to others, are to them but the in-
supremacy and power. On the orthodox side are Papacy and dications of the development of God’s glorious plan.
Protestantism, while the non-religious world stands in opposi- “Behind his frowning province
tion. All the various sects of Protestantism have formed a They see his smiling face.”
confederacy--“The Evangelical Alliance”-for mutual support While the Lord is thus our defence and rejoicing, he is a
and common action, agreeing to almost entirely ignore doctrine, stone of stumbling and a rock of offence to both the houses
and to preach simply morality, and the necessity of union of Israel-Israel after the flesh and the nominal Gospel church,
with them, in order to be saved. And now friendly relations “And many among them shall stumble and fall, and be broken,
and proposals of union are beginning to be thought of even and be snared, and be taken.” They stumble and fall over the
between Papacy and Protestantism. The latter is losing all truth and are. taken in the snare 01 the adversary, their faith
Gight of do&r&e and sees no special hindrance to union-in a shattered and broken: and the great flood of infidelity will
lower standard of moralitv. while the former is not slow to engulf the church nominal. -
speak of itself as one of &e Christian denominations, and of But the prophet continues, “Bind up the testimony, se:11
others as their “Methodist and Presbyterian friends, etc.,” the law among mv disciples.” This is equivalent to Daniel’s
while both agree and unite in branding as Infidel all who Op- prophecy. “T%e &se r&all understand” -(Dan. 12: 10) ; and
pose their s&em, no matter how fi&ly their faith may he David’+-“They shall walk 0 Lord in the light of thy counte-
rooted and grounded in the Word of God. Infidels are also nance” (Psa. 89: 15) ; and Paul%-“Ye brethren are not in dark-
uniting fo&ng liberal leagues, and banding themselves to- ness.” ( 1 Thea. 5 :4.) Yes, to those consecrated ones who
gether to resist superstition and to advocate morality and walk with God senarate from the world and worldly alliances.
benevolence on a basis of common sense and expediency. the- law land the ‘testimony is precious-a constanlly unfold-
While all this seems expedient and necessary to these ing treasure-house of blessed promises, inspiring s&h with
various classes in the world, while human reason says, Surely glorious and blessed hopes which dispel all fearful apprehen-
in Union there is strength, shall we as Christians who are by sions. But it is bound up and sealed among these, and none
no means less interested in the final issues than others, act of the unfaithful shall understand their glorious import.
contrary to such reason, and battle singly and alone with the “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.”
mighty powers of darkness? In this aa in all matters, we MRS. C. T. R.

CLABKE says in his comment on 1 Cor. 15: “One remark it. And their successors in the present day seldom mention it’
I cannot help making; the doctrine of the resurrection appears So the apostles preached, and so primitive Christians believed;
to have been thought of much more consequence among the so we preach, and so our hearers believe. There is not a doc-
primitive Christians than it is now!” How is this? The trine in the gospel on which more stress is laid; and there is
apostles were continually insisting on it, and exciting the fol- not a doctrine in the present system of preaching which ir
lowers of God to diligence, obedience, and cheerfulness through treated with more neglect.-flel.
I6Oll
 NO MAN BUYETH THEIR MERCHANDISE ANY MORE
REV. lY:2
There are already evidences of consternation and forbod- The Rev. Wm. Lloyd in a sermon (which we quote below)
ings of disaster in the nominal Church, because of the gen- preached on the same day and published in the New York
eral apathy and indifference of her membership and the falling Herald, Feb. 4, takes a different and wider view of the situa-
off of-att&dnnce at her services. We hear &ports far rea& tion: he regards, we think truthfully, the misrepresentation
in,o of focks without pastors. and castors with rapidlv dimin- or malreoresentation
I
of God in the horrible domatic theology
i&p flocks. and thii state ‘of things exists not bnly’ in this of the dark ages, as the chief cause of all that i$ now transpri-
country. but nlac in Europe and elsewhere, as the following ing within the walls of that “great city, Babylon.”
clipping from the New York Herald of January 6th will show:
HINDRANCES TO UHRISTIANITY
PASTORS WANTED
Dogmatic theology driving people out of the Church and pre-
“Much is printed in the religious newspapers on the other venting its growth
side of the -Itlantlc regarding the scarcitv of ministers in the “Rev. Wm. Lloyd, in the pulpit of the Central Congrega-
I-nited States and Canada. 3t appears chat the disease com- tional church, spoke with more than his ordinary vigor. His
plained of-pastorless flocks-is not confined to this continent congregation was a large one, for it had been announced that
alone, From a recent publication giving some religious the pastor was to talk very plainly upon the position of the
statistics for France it is gathered that not less than 60.000 Church and its relation to the public at large. Christianity,
Protestants-nearly one-tenth of the whole Protestant pop;la- he declared, had not made the progress which it ought to have
tlon of the country-belong to churches which are without pas- shown. Today, after nearly twenty centuries of existence, the
tors. One of their churches has been without regular pastoral Christian Church had failed to make more than the slightest
superintendence for twelve years. Eighteen churches have been impression upon the world. The vast majority of the in-
deprived of their pastors during the year just ended. There is habitants of the globe were strangers to it, and even in coun-
surely room for improvement here.” tries where Christ was officially recqgnized fully seven-eighths
Kot many months ago it was stated in the WATCH TOWER, of the people were not connected with the Christian Church.
as quoted from some other publication, that the Presbyterian The intellectual and cultured classes had withdrawn almost
Church was 500 ministers short, and from the Cleveland wholly from the Church, and those who kept without its pale
Leader of Oct. 25, 18S3, we quote’the following report of the were not people to whose immoral habits and tendencies the
1’. E. Conference: “There are now in the United States 48 teachings of the gospel were obnoxious, but people of the most
dioceses and 15 missionary jurisdictions, 67 bishops, 2,500 blameless lives. These people refused to accept the assertion of
other cler,gy, 3,000 organized parishes, and more than 353,000 the Church that Christ was really the Son of God, and that
communicants : the report referred to the inadequate number through Him there was salvation. They accepted the teach-
of candidates for holy orders.” This report shows the num- ings of morality, but rejected all that was of real pith in fix-
ber of bishops to exceed the number of dioceses and mission- ing the divinity of our God and Sariour. The thinkers of
sly jurisdictions, while the number of pastors to parishes the age, here and abroad, have in almost every instance held
5hon-s a deficiency of at least five hundred. to these skeptical views, and now, in place of writing their
That there has been a much larger decrease in membership views only for the few who read books of philosophy and
and attendance at services, we believe, but these cannot be obstruct thinking, these thoughts were embodied in the popular
arrived at by figures. Observation, however, and the state-
novel and through the current works of fiction strongly put
ments of ministers and others go far to prove it to be in a and attractively worded. There is no failure of Christianity
very demoralized condition. The Rev. Dr. Collyer evidently in itself, but there is a failure of Christianity to get a secure
thinks we are on the verge of a religious panic. We quote hold upon the popular heart and become a guide and mentor
from his sermon preached on Feb. 3d, and published in the
in the daily life of the people.
Yew York Herald of Feb. 4:
“In conclusion Rev. Mr. Lloyd considered the causes which
PANICS IN RELIC+ION AND LIFE had brought about this state of-affairs. They were, he said, to
Rec. Dr. Collyo. 011 11~ havwk done by faithless men in the be found within the Church itself. God had been mnlrepre-
Church sented. In place of the forgiving Father for all, he had been
“I notice,” said the Rev. Dr. Collyer, in his sermon yester- held up in the frightful dogmatic theology of the past cen-
day morning in the Church of the Messiah, “that when I talk turies as a Creator of countless millions of human beings who
with those who watch the world’s great markets, they say that were from birth doomed to an eternity of suffering and woe.
when there 1s an e\er growing fever in the centers of business, Christianity had suffered, too, from the secularization of the
if this continues we a& going to have a panic. And I answer Church and from Church quarrels. One such dispute did more
‘God forbid.’ for I know of but few things in this world and to hinder the progress of Christianity than a thousand skep-
life of ours’s0 cruel and ruthless 0s a pa%ic, or that take the tical tracts scattered abroad over the land.”
manhood so completely out pf men, leaving only a mob of Infidelity, skepticism and apathy to religion are but natural
poltroons and monsters. It makes no matter what form the results of the bad representation of God by the nominal
evil and ugly thing may take, in a public hall or a theater, or Church, notwithstanding that God has little bg little, “line
in a church where men go to worship God, or in Wall street; upon line,” made know; his true character as kxemplified in
and it is no matter what our conduct may have been down to a .!rreat and grand nlan for the redemption of all his human
I

the day when we were confronted in a moment by this last and cr&&es from the consequences of Adam’s transgression. The
most terrible test of our manhood. If we have lost on that different sects, Protestant and Romanist, have so distorted and
dav the oualitv Herbert Spencer insists on as one of the falsified it at every stage that God, whom they say is all-wise,
choicest biessinks we can possess-‘the supremacy of self-con- is made to appear unwise: and, though they proclaim him a
trol’-it is all over with us the rest of our lives. God of love, they make his acts appear those of a cruel and
‘.I notice that my brethren in their conferences deplore the vindictive monster, to be feared rather than to be loved.
deadness in their ch;rches. I do not wonder at this, but I do This, together with the gathering unto her, as into a cage,
\\onder a little that thev should even bv inference lav the everv “unclean and hateful bird.” and the love for and con-
blame on God and talk “sometimes as if “they believed- with for&y to the world of her members, in church matters and
the priests of Baa1 that he was asleep in his heavens or had in social life, have caused the Lord to spue her out of his
gone on a journey. Because if they only look deeper they will mouth, and to leave her desolate. She is unfit to be any
see that the whole trouble lies with the Christians themselves. longer his mouth-piece. In her conformity to the world, and
I venture to observe, that with no mean spirit, God knows, departure from the narrow way, she has sought out many in-
that the most cruel and ruthless blows ever struck against ventions-many questionable modes for raising money, osten-
our common faith have been made, not by men like Robert sibly to pay the Lord’s bills, but really to gratify worldly
Inrrersoll. but bv deacons of good standing in their churches, Dride in erecting costlv edifices, fine organs, and in general
a& prominent i)ersons in Chr‘istian associ&ions. Where men &splay. Her &isteri delight’ in high%ounding titles, con-
I will not name do things I will not name under the mask of trarv to the exmess command of Him who onlv is the Head of
xelldon-the safest mask I know of-it is no wonder so the “Church--“- Neither be ye called masters, ?or one is your
magy should go apal t and say, if this is the fruit I do not be- master, even Christ,” Had these men whose significant re-
lieve in the tree. T\‘o wonder that so many should leave the marks we have auoted. taken heed unto the words of the
churches and that we should have what \:re may call a re- Master, they woulh have been able to discern the signs of the
ligious panic. And \\hen this panic occurs no words of mine times. and would not be walking now as blind men. “Thev
or of anv one else can estimate the damage it does to the shall look unto the earth and bvehold trouble and darkness.
world : for it meatis that men throw aside all religion, all dimness of anguish; and they shall be driven to darkness.”
moralitv. all that is reallv DreCiOUS in this life. But such (Isa. 8:22.) “And he shall be for a sanctuary [to the sheep
panic; &d desertions from”reiigion will invariably take place that hear his voice], but for a stone of stumbling and rock of
when we see unworthy men who have no real religious life in offence to both the houses [Jewish and Gospel] of Israel.”
thcam ayyurne the high places in Christian councils.” (Verse 14.)
(5) [602J
MARCH, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

Jesus said the tares, the children of the wicked one. and nations then shall the end come,” i. e., the end of the Gospel
the wheat. the children of the kingdom. would grow together age. Every nation under heaven has heard the Gospel, and it
until the harvest, and he explained-that’the harvest is tKe end was so declared bv the Bible societies a$ far back a9 1866.
of the age-consummation of the age (Revised version). And That the nations *have not received the GoyDel testimonv is
Paul says: “In the last days perilous times shall come; for true, but witnessing to nations is not-witness&g to individ;lalq
men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, -not one in a thousand have heard, nnd most of those n-ho
. . . . high-minded, lovers of pleasure more than lovers of have heard have not accepted it.
God, having a form of godliness but denying the power; . . . . The nominal Church. in looking for the conversion of thp
evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving world before Jesus romes. is totally at variance with the
and being deceived.” (2 Tim. 1:5-13.) And again he says, Scriptures. This falsification of the truth. and adulteration of
“The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, that which should be the children’s meat, has brought hpr to
but will heap to themselves teachers having itching ears,,’ i. e., her present condition of barrenness and confusion. “Bxhrlnn
teachers taking pleasure in hearing the praise of men. the &eat is fallen, iq fallen, and is become the habitation of
Peter, referring to this same time, says, “And there shall devils. and the hold of everv foul spirit. and a case of every
come in the last days scoffers, in scoffing walking after their unclean and hateful bird .“. . . Tl;e merchants f$vmbolic-
own lusts, and saying, Where is promise of his presence?” (2 the clergy] of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for
Peter 3:4, Sinaiatic MS.) We have here the testimony of rshortlvl no man buveth their merchandise any more: . . . .
Jesus, Paul and Peter as to what would be the condition of the light of a candle” [lamp-the Word] shall “shine no more
the nominal Church in the harvest, or last days, and we find at all in thee: and the voice of the briderrroom rJesus1 and
this inspired testim.ony to exactly correspond with its present of the bride [the Lamb’s wife] shall be h&rd no -more at all
condition. And added to this we have the words of Jesus in thee.” Rev. 18: 2, 11. 2.7. These are not our words, but
(Matt. 24:14) literally fulfilled now: “This gospel of the king- God’s denunciation-the final doom of :I false system.
dom shall be preached in all the world, for a witness unto all s. 0. BLuxnEr

LOST AND SAVED

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that whichwas lost.“-LT:r<I I!): IO.
Nrnrly ta-o thousand years ago Jesus, then present, af- *Jesus would thus save the lost? However crude and indefinite
firmed this to be his mission: but as vet no visible evidence of the ideas of the Jews and the earlr disciDle- at first wprc
its accomplishment appears. ‘The wo;id moves on in its down- concerning the promised salvation.. thev had learned hnth
ward course now, as then. Sin and misery triumph still, and from the DroDhets and from ,Jesus’ teaching, that it would
century after century plunges successive generations into be accompiisl&d when the kingdom of God svhould come. And
death. Have we failed to understand the import of the when Jesus stated that he had now come to save the lost.
?(raster’s words 1 or has he been unable to accomplish his pur- thev at once concluded that the kingdom of God should im-
pose ? or may it be that his purpose is so far-reaching as to mediately apDear.
hc of future fulfillment? With these queries in view, let uq Because they had drawn this inference, and, to correct
consider the subject before US. their false impression, Jesus spoke a certain Darable. the im-
The words lost and saved have a common significance port of which-was, that he mu&, first go away* and receive for
known to all: A thing lost is a thing once possessgd, and a himself the kingdom, and return; and that they, in the mean-
thin-n saved i.q a thinn once Dossessed and then lost and finallv time, should, as faithful servants, occupy till he would come,
rero&ed. Jesus sa;d the ‘thing he came to save was thk using the talents entrusted to them acrdtding tn his directions,
thing that men had lost; and the implication is, that since he and in the interest of his cause and of his coming kingdom,
had Come to save the thing lost, men were unable to save it patiently waiting for their reward at hi4 coming.
for themqelres. which experience and many scriptures clearly But Jesus im.plied that in somp FCI’V he came at that
prove. Now if we can determine just what man lost, we will time, to save the lost-“The Son of JIan is come,” etc. ,4nd
know just what .Tesus came to save. Man could not lose what in one sense it was true, for he then purchased them with his
he never had. Sdam. who stood as the representative of our own Drecious blood. and thourh not vet liberated from the
race, had a perfect human organism, and a right to everlasting prison of death. they may be tr;lly reckoned as saved ever since
continuance of life, on condition of obedience to God. He WRS their ransom was paid, for their raiqing out of death was from
privileged to enjoy all the delights of his Eden home, and the that moment made sure. JnSt as you might sap of a pardoned
communion and blessings of God; in short, all the privileges criminal that he is a saved man, although even he himself
that everlasting life under perfect human conditions is capable mav not yet know of his pardon nor have yet cxperiencctl n
of enjoying and looking forward to. release.
All this Adam lost through sin, both for himself and his Though no one is actually saved now. yet the Scriptures
posterity. Home, happiness;’ communion with God, health, sneak of believers as now saved bv hope, that is. bv acceptinc
. I_ . I
and life itself. were lost. Consequently, mankind lies in utter of God’s promises as unquestionably sure. they may ~ccl;o~r
wreck and ruin, dead and dying. In having lost his right to thmmselves as already fully saved; not as merely awakened
life he fell under the dominion of death, whose successive steps from death. but as saved from the last vestige of death and
of miserv. deDravitv. sickness and Dain, end in total extinc- sin-as made perfect. “We are saved by hope: but hope that
tion of d&g, from”&hich he can never ‘recover himself. is seen is not hope, for what a men seeth why doth he vet
Jesus came then to save and restore that which was lost; hope for ?” We do not SCP our salvation get. except hy faith.
to restore man to his original (human) perfection, and to com- “Bnt if we hope for that wc see not, then do wc with patience
munion wit,h God, to give him back his paradise restored, and 11xlit for it.” (Rom 8 21. 2.5.) Our hope and faith ~nnld
nil the pleasing prospects of future blessings that accumulat- indeed be I-nin unless salvation means much more than we nnw
ing ages can bestow, and that the powers of perfect humanity enjoy.
will be capable of enjoying. What! does some one say, Is so The Apn<tle’s statement that “God is thr Sn\-inur of nil
much imDlied in those words of our Lord? Yes; this is one men, espc~inll?/ of those that rnnwl believe.” and that Gnd
way in \;hich our Lord foretold the restitution of all things. “will hfz7~ all men to hc sn\ctl nntl cnmc to n knnwlr~lrc nf
-411 this is imDlied in the word saved. Think of it: could the the truth.” n< wr11 ns many other SCI ipturcs. prnvr to u+’ that
words mean iessthan this? Certainly not ; and,’ from this all men are to be saved br Christ fInIll the dcrrradntinn. miG:crr
and many other scriptures, we have learned to trust in the liv- and death now upon all through Bd:~ln’q disnhedicncc. .tnt1 n-2
ing God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that they show us twin classes of iaved nnrq-all mnnkind :~nd ill,>
believe. ( 1 Tim. 4: 10). There is a special salvation for some, Church. n’hilr all are saved. one rl:l$< iq snccinllrl iavcrl.
as well as a general salvation for all men, as Paul here in- That is. hp special arrnllgernent. senir (all hrlievcrs of tlic
timates, but we are not considering the special salvation now. gospel age) are reckoned sawd in scaqnn to run for the pri7c
In the above text Jesus was speaking of the general salva- offered during this age. One class is not more snretl thnn the
tion of all men-the saving of that which was lost. For God other: both the Church and the n-nrlql are and will be mm-
“till have all men to be Laved, and to come unto the knowl- pletely saved from sin and its pennlt? : and the mass of the
edge of the truth.” (1 Tim. 2:4). When men are actuallv world will realize this in due time in their restoration to pcr-
saGed, their restored existence wili be as at first, dependent o$ feet human life, while those rcckojlcd saved now. as thouyh
obedience for its continuance. which obedience will be easy and thev had already received the Derfcct humnn life, are privile,rred
Droductive of constant happiness when evil and temptation are to relinquish th’kir new claim nnd titlr to it, presenting it a.s n
&lIy removed, and the gr&t deceiver and tempter is-bound and sacrifice to God. hnlv and nrcrDtahlr to him whrn offered in
finailv d&roved. and when the law of God is written in their the acccptablr timr <thr gnsprl kc) . .tnd being thus sacrificed
hear&. (Jei 3i : 33). with Christ, they mill br pririlrgrd to partake with him of e
But, we might inquire, when does our text indicatr that new nature. (2 Pet. 1:4.) Thesr will receive glnry, hnnnr
[603]
(6) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH,
PA.

and immortality-the divine nature; while the world in gen- vent, that the plan of God had so far developed that the
eral will receive the glorv. honor and blessedness of the per- promised Messiah had actuallv come to save men bv the sac-
feet human nature, \chicg ’is an image of the divine. (hen. fifice of himself. But it is &ill more glorious now’to realize
1:27.) The former class is thus specially saved, severely dis- that our Lord has come the seoon& time, to apply the benefits
ciplined and highly exalted that through them the blessings of that sacrifice, to claim and restore his purchased Dosses-
of restitution may flow to all the world when God’s due time sions, to actually and completely save that hhich was lost.
shall come. While we have thus stated what we believe to be the Scrin-
We see, then, that while the full import of our Lord’s ture teaching concerning the salvation of men, we would y&
words has not been understood bv manv. and while many be- more particularly answer the inquiry of some-
lieve that he is unable to save tge 1ost”as he promised t’o do, WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED.
the fact is that his plan was so far-reaching that short- Perhaps the reader already sees that he has nothing to do.
sighted, dying men could not measure or comprehend it. As All that was necessary to procure pour salvation was done
n&v seen, the-truth uttered in those few words-required nearly long ago, before you w&e bdm; and-in consequence of the re-
three thousand vears for its full accomDlishment. At his Arst demption provided, all mankind, whether they ever knew it,
advent Jesus gabe himself a ransom to-save all ( 1 Tim. 2:6) ; or believed it or not, are going to be brought to life again,
during the centuries since, he has been developing the class are eoine to be saved from the Adamic death. God will have
who have in this time followed him in sacrifice, and who are all &en “to be saved; and though they may never have known
to share with him in the work of saving or restoring all things, him before, to be then brought to a knowledge of the truth.
and within the coming thousand years the work of saving men Well, we seem to hear some one sav. that is a strange an-
will be completed. “If,” then, “when we were enemies we were swer. i thought you would tell me & pray or to get-some
reconciled t% God by the death of his Son, much more being Christian friends to nrav for me. that I must trv to realize
reconciled we shall be saved bv his life.” (Rom. 6:lO.) that I am the chief lf sinners, that I must *kneel at a
Because in God’s order me; could only ‘be sclived by’ a pay- mourner’s bench, or something of the kind, but you have not
ment of their penalty which would be the BASIS of their recon- even told me to repent or believe. You simply say that I am
ciliation and atonement with God, therefore, as a means to an saved, and that I have had, and can have nothing to do with it.
end, we see that Jesus’s mission at his first advent was to No, friend, we do not say that you are saved, but that
save in the sense of redeeming, while his second advent will xou urill be saved: and that vou have had, and can have
complete the work by restoring to perfection all thR redeemed nothing to do with the means” which procuied your salva-
-all for whom Christ died, and bv the mace of God he tasted tion. It is a free nift of God. in conseouence of which vou will
death [sin’s penalty] for eiery man. (Reb. 2:9.) be saved in the &ming agei but yo; are in no se&e saved
There is one other thought of special importance in this now unless you have corn; to belikve in Christ as your Re-
text. It is that the Son of Man came to seek that which was deemer. If you do believe this Bible truth, then vou may
lost. Now we inquire, Is there any evidence of very earnest through that” faith reckon yourself as saved’ now-iaved bi
seeking of lost ones on the Dart of our Lord? Some would houe: but vou must m& for the actual salvation until God’s
think ‘;lot. All men were l&t, and this text implies, while dui time. “(2 Thes. 3:5.) Of course faith in and reliance on
John 12:47 clearly declares his purpose to save all; but he Christ as your Redeemer implies a realization of your need of
said, “I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of a Redeemer, and a repentance and turning from sin. You may
Israel.” (Matt. 15:24.) He did not seek o& any of the lost have been one of the very chief of sinners, or you mny not
Gentiles, and charged his diSCiDkS not to do so for some years. have been so bad as so&e others; however, ybu were bad
But JesLs did seek out a ceriain class-the meek-whd were enouah to merit the iust condemnation of God’s law, for he
waiting for the promised salvation; and it was his purpose to who %ffends in one point is guilty of all. (James 2 : lb.) He
begin with Jerusalem, to save such as would believe, and to is a violator of the law, and as a consequence is under con-
g&e to those of the seed of Abraham who believed, &he first demnation. If you have always lived just as morally and a3
offer of the high calling. And during the centuries since, he carefully as you could, you have fallen short of perfection, be-
has only been seeking out and saving (reckoning saved) the cause of the weakness of vour nature. inherited throunh
same class (the meek) among the Gentiles, and making to Adam’s fall. (Rom. 5:12.) ” But though nothing that yen
such believing ones the same offer of the divine nature-a have done or could do could save vou from death. that which
heavenly calling. Christ has done procures your &ease from it. ’
But-a grander time of seeking is yet to come, for all the Paul said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou
millions that are comDletelv lost in death are vet to be sought shalt be saved.” This is the condition on which we receive
out and saved. And’ where shall they be f&nd 9 Notwgh- the reckoned salvation now, and it will also be the condition
standing the theories of men to the contrary, the Scriptures on which the world will receive their actual full salvation in
plainly teach that in death man’s being is dissolved. that he is the ages to come. We must bear in mind that the awakening
destroyed, blotted out of existence, &at he is nowhere to be of men from death is only the beginning of their salvation.
found. And with this fact in mind we might inquire with the Not until they have, under the discipline of the next age,
Prophet Job, “If a man die shall he live again ?” With men reached Derfection. are they fully saved. Although we might
such a thine seems auite imnossible. but “Whv should it be truly eai men are saved “when- first awakened -from de&h,
thought -a tiling incrldible t<at God’ shoild raise the dead?” thev are not “saved to the uttermost” until broueht to full
(Acts 26 :8.) He that was able to create is also able to re- per&&ion of being. But none will be thus “saved to”the utter-
create those once completely destroyed. And through the most” who do not accept of their release from death as the
Prophet Isaiah the Lord speaks of the restitution as a new direct result of the sacrifice of Christ. And realizing this,
creation, saying, “Behold, I create new heavens and a new they must repent of past sins and turn to God. Otlierwise
earth”-not the Dhvsical earth. for that abideth forever-but thev die the second death. from which there is no release.
the world of maikiid is to be re-created. And the Lord says: “Well, says our inquirer, this seems true and Scriptural,
“Be ve dad and reioice forever in that which I create.” (Isa. but what advantage is to be gained by being reckoned saved
f;Fi.l?.l s”.) That dhe restored or re-created being will &cog- now t Would it not be as well to wait and give ourselves no
nize himself and also his neighbors of former acqiaintaince, is concern about it, but let God’s plan take its course ? 0 no,
unquestionablv Droven bv manv scriptures (Ezek. 16:61. 63: we answer. there is an advantaee. a ereat advantage to be
26:h3; 36:31”; iech. 12110; I?sa. 22:27), and illustra& in gained by prompt faith and obedyence a”s soon as we “can gain
the few cases where the dead have been measurably restored, sufficient knowledge on which to base our faith and obedience.
as Lazarus and others. The sDecia1 Drivilege of those iustified by faith (or reckoned
Job answers our uestion very clearly when he says (chap. saved) &ring the goipel age, ht& been thkir right to present
7:21), “Now shall 1 sleep in the dust; and thou shalt seek themselves as accentable sacrifices to God-ioint-sacrifices
me in the morning, [the morning of the resurrection or restitu- with Jesus Christ, aid thereby to become joint-l&s with ‘him
tion] BUT I SHALL NOT BE"~ shall be destroyed, blotted out of all things. That privilege, we believe, began with the day
of existence. But nevertheless, though thus destroyed, he says, of Pentecost and ended in October, 1881.“ While this special
“Thou shalt call and I will answer thee.” (Job. 14:15.) Like privilege was not offered to any before or since that time, an-
Lazarus, at the call of Jesus, earth’s dead millions shall again other special privilege was granted to believers before this
snrine into existence. David declares the same truth when he age, and we see no reason why a similar privilege may not be
says,“#(Thou turnest man to destruction and [then] sayer&, granted to believers since the gospel age ended.
returq ye children of men.” And with him we must say, Those justified by faith in past ages will have no need of
“Ble99 the Lord, 0 my soul; who redeemeth thv life from trial and discipline in the next age, for their judgment is
destructionI” (Psa. 90: 3; 103 ; 1, 4.) 0 that all the world
l It may be proper, to guard against misunderstanding, to say that
could now realize the glorious import of those words of our though all bad sactificed to the extent of CONSECRATION at that time,
Lord. “The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which all have not yet completed the sacrifice and will not till actually dead.
was lost.” It waa a glorious truth to realize at his first ad- t [See Vol. III, Scripture Studies, for later light on this point.]
[6041
RlnRcH, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (7)

past ; and consequently in the instant of their resurrection prayer be healed from sickness, etc., but they cannot hc
they will be raised to perfect human existence. broueht to full nerfection until the saints are first dorified:
A similar blessing, we believe, is in store for those of the for % ‘hey without us shall not be made perfect.” (Hebl
world who now repent of sin, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ 11:40.)
as their Redeemer and rightful Lord, and wholly turn to God. Probably very few will come to realize their privilege now.
As heretofore frequently shown, we find that we are now liv- The tendency of the world is more and more towards skep-
ing in the Day of the Lord, in the beginning of the Millennial ticism, and few can claim this privilege; nevertheless; we
Age-the Times of Restitution. And since our Lord is pres- believe it to be the privilege of any such who have faith to
ent for the very purpose of restoring life and all things, we claim it.
think it possible for such to remain without ever passing into In answer, then, to the question, What must I do to be
death. It is just as easy when God’s due time comes to keep saved? we would say, “Believe on the Lord ,Jesus Christ and
men from going into death as it is to raise them out of it. thou shalt be saved.” Your salvation may begin now, and
This is not possible in the case of those who are to change progress until you are restored to the perfection of your be-
their nature and become “new creatures” ; it applies only to ingrsaved to the uttermost. For “he (&list) is cLb6 to save
those justified ones who never started for the high calling. to the tcttermost all that come unto God br him.” (Heb.
Therefore we should expect that such should in answer to 7 :25.) En. D:R.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Question. Please explain Mark 16 : 15-20. ing on the earth, and the cloud, which continues to grow
Ansmr. It is very important to observe the times and darker, is fast overspreading the whole heavens. Before many
seasons indicated in the Scriptures. This commission was years the storm will burst in all its fury, “and there shall be
given in the spring-time of the Gospel Age, when the all- a time of trouble such as never was s’inre there was a na-
important work of the Church was seed sowing. The com- tion.” Dan. 12: 1.
mission, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every Jesus tells his disciples that they will hear of many wars
creature,” indicated that it was no longer confined to the and rumors of wars, but tells them not to be troubled about
Jew. it, for all these things must come to pass. As long as Satan
But seed sowing was not the only work of the Church. They rules the world strife and war and confusion must reien. and
had somethina to do in the way of cultivating the tender you shall be hated and affiicted and killed for my name& $ake.
plants which ipring up from the-sown seed. - But amid all these troubles the saints, knowing that these
The spring-time and the summer of the Gospel Age are things must be so for a time, and that “the end is not yet,”
hoth past, and the autumn with its harvest work is here. “Lift must patiently endure until “he comes whose right it is” to
up your eyes, and look on the fields, for they are white already take the kingdom from the usurper and reward his faithful
to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages and gath- saints.
ereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that sozoeth and he So also famines and pestilences and earthquakes nre not
that reapeth. may rejoice together. And herein is that saying to be reearded sneciallv as siens of the end. Though ther will
true, One soweth and another reapeth,” etc. doubtleG be frequent; and ierhaps more so in The t&e of
Jesus spoke these words with reference to the harvest of the end, like wars have beena pa& of Satan’s policy from the
the Jewish Are. but since that age was a pattern of this, it first. It is not to be nresumed that the mince of darkness
is as emphat&aily true here. Th< princi ai part of the SOW- will suffer the binding i-nfluences of the new’ Prince, which are
inp of this see was done bv the earlv c R urch. while all the
0 ‘7
now at work, to fetter his power without a stru.ggle. Without a
reaping is our special privilege. But”when thh golden grain doubt his rage will spend its force in distressing mankind in
is all gathered in the faithful sower and the faithful reaper, various ways, for he knoweth that he hath hut a short time.
who diligently observed the times and seasons, shall rejoice Q. If the punishment of the wicked is merely a blotting
together. out of existence, how do you understand that, the punishment
Paul’s counsel, “Do good to all men as you have oppor- of the wicked is equal to the reward of the righteous?
tunity, especially to the household of faith,” should be con- A. The Scriptures nowhere state that there will be such
tinually borne ih mind. While about our special business of equality. They do not teach that the misery of the wicked
renping in presentinK advanced truth to consecrated saints. we must tally with the glory and blessedness of the saints. That
should improve every opportunity for dropping some seeds of idea was promulgated by the adversary through Papacy, but
truth among others with whom we come in contact. has no existence in the Word of God. All other punishments
But we should not make the mistake of expecting this new except that of the second death are designed a4 corrective, and
seed to flourish and come to maturity in this-age. -There are this-final punishment shows that God in-merry takes awai the
a thousand vears ahead of us for this work, and it will be the being which could only be a source of misery to itself and
special wo& after this harvest is ended. B& it is consecrated others. In mercy God will blot such out of existence. But,
believers only who may be developed and perfected now. He “As I live, saith the Lord God. I hare 110 pleasure in the
that believeth and is baptized with the baptism that Christ death of the wicked.” (Ezek. 33 : Il.)
was baptized with-into death-shall be savgd now to the high Q. Please explain 1 Pet. 4:17. I%--“For the time is come
calline offered in this we. But he that believeth not shall be that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first
damnzd (condemned) G utterly unfit for the high office to begin at us, what shall the end he of them that obey not the
which those saved in this age are called. But though thus Gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where
condemned now, they will have abundant evidence for faith, shall the ungodly and the sinner appear ?”
and ample opportunitv to be saved and brought to human A. The ierG judgmmt may hb-properly applied to the
perfection in the coming age, when the blind eyes shall he process of trial, or to the result of trial-the decision or
opened and the deaf ears shall be unstopped. verdict. Tn the former sense the iudament of the Church be-
Verses 17 and 18 mention certain signs which should gan over eighteen hundred years aio. ‘and hnq heen prr,grcsiing
accompany believers, and verse 20 shows that the Lord did ever since. But in the latter qense. it is due In the end or
thus work with the early Church, cojoining their word with harvest of the Gospel Sge. Hence thk separating of wheat and
the promised signs. But Paul shows us (1 Cor. 1.3:8-10) that tares, and also of the ripe and unripe wheat. now going on.
when the necessity for such signs is done away they no longer And if the iudement of the Church, as to who is fit or
continue. They were a necessity in the introduction of Chris- unfit to receive ihe‘&spel prize offered to uq, has henun. what
tianity, but we have now abundant and substantial evidence shall the end or decision of this iud-rrment be conce&inr them
on which to rest our faith without them. that obey not the Gospel of God’&ot concerning the& that
Q. Does Matt. 24:6 teach that “wars and rumors of wars” never heard. or thnt hnd no cars to hear it (Rev. 4: 11). but
are a sign of the end of the Gospel Age? concerning them that had n hearing ear, that did once hear
A. No; we think not. Wars and rumors of wars have with gladness and apprecintr the Go+, and then. for ynrionr
characterized earth’s history, with varying frequency and reasons, did not obey it-the ungodly. not necessarily vicious
cruelty, ever since the fall of man. But the Scriptures assure and in direct opposition and defiance of Cod. hut those claim-
us th& the time of the end of the Gospel Age, & end of the ing to be his aid yet not fully obedient. Thcrc are very many
dominion of the “mince of this world.” will witness a more such. What shall the end of this iudemcnt hc to them 9
general and wide-spread warfare than &as ever known before, Let the Psalmist nnswcr: “Th& A;e like the chaff which
involving all the powers of earth. The indications of such an the wind driveth nway. Thrrcfoie the ungodly shall not
uprising we now see in the rapid and world-wide development stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congrrgation of the
of the principles of Communism. Already men’s hearts are righteous.” (PsA. 1 :4. 5.) T,ikr thr chaff they will be carried
beginning to fail them for fear of those things that are com- away by the winds of false doctrine, or the storms of oppo-
(7-P) ZlOi’V’S WATCH TOWER PITTSRURGH, PA

sit 1011 : they \\111 not he ahlr to stand the test, or counted be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in un-
u ot thy to be gathered with the faithful. But, “blessed is the righteousness.” (2 Thes. 2:11, 12.)
man that wnlketh not in the counsel of [such unfaithful ones] A. The preceding verses show that the reference here is to
the ungodly. nor standrth in the way of [these] sinners, nor the develoument of the “Man of Sin”--Papacy. But all who
sitteth 111the seat. of the scornful. Rut his delight is in the have been -deceived by the great Papal sys&m”were not of the
law of the Lord: and in his law doth he mediate day and class who had vleasure in unriahteousness. The deceptions
night.” Though in this judgment a thousand unfaithful shall and errors of Pa&y, still promulgated through Protestaitism,
fnll at his side. and ten thousand at his right hand, he shall even todav continue to fetter many of God’s children to some
stand. and in due time will receive the great reward. extent. But, however. since were many of the imorant and
Verse IS shows that the righteous, or those who pass the deceived ones who afterward formed a part of the Papal sys-
ludpment of thiq ape and win the prize of the high calling, ter. its “COMINQ was after the worlcina of Satan. with all
uili smrcrly. or merely, be savrtl--tilnt is, with dif%culty. rt p&i-e, and signs and lying wonders, ani with all heceivable-
will reonirc all their faith. and all thrir effort: those who do ness of unrighteousness.” That is, those who were instru-
not e\-drrisr faith and put forth all their effort will not be mental in introducing this system where men who, though
nhle to stand. they knew the truth, received it not in the love of it, but had
($. Please compare I,nke 6 :2O. XI. with 1 Tim. 5 :8, and pleasure in unrighteousness. They sought to pervert the truth
tell me how both these principles can be carried out. There is for their own selfish ends, and in so doing they found able
a miserly and idle class who would completely strip the frugal support in Satan, “the god of this world.”
and industrious if they n-nllld literally obey Luke 6:29, 30; -For this cause God left such, as he always does. where they
and before long we would find the command of 1 Tim. 5:s nlaced themselves. in the hands of the enemy, who strongly
impossible, while the class referred to would be encouraged in &luded them intd believing the lies they sought to propag&&
indolence and improvidence. What is duty? that they all might be condemned who had pleasure in un-
A. This is a-very practical question, ;nd one not unfre- righteousness. We have often heard it lightly remarked that
quently forced upon many. We think, however, that Luke if-one tells an untruth several times he-begins to believe it
6.31 settles the difficulty. It reads: “And as ye would that himself. This is indeed a fearful fact. and an evidence of
men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” Mark, it the increasing power of Satan over such.’ What a fearful con-
does not say, as they would have you do to them., but, as dition to be in, especially for any whose judgment is in the
you would have them do to you. This makes quite a dif- Dresent age. and whose trial must be completed in this life.
ference. You. as a true child of God. are controlled bv the i See art&$ “The Judgment,” in Decembe; issue.] Perilous
highest principle9 of lore and justice, and would therefore only indeed is the condition of those who at ang time pervert tlw
desire the Same of your neighbor. Love and justice would, truth of God for selfish ends: though they do it at first with
if possible. feed and clothe your neighbor if he is unable by trembling and fear, they will-shortly do i‘t with boldness, ant1
industry.and economy to do it for himself. But neither love with a degree of sinceritv which gives evidence of their strong
nor justice to him nor to yourself would encourage indolence, and awfui’ delusion. ”
prodigality nr meanness. Q. (4) “Thou believest that there is one God: thou docst
V&ses‘ 27 to 30 arc not in opposition to the principle es- well: the devils also heliere and tremble.” James 2: 19.
Dressed in the golden rule. but teach what should be our atti- A. Though it is true that “without faith it is impossible
tude towards &r enemies who hate and despitefully use us. to nlease God.” Paul here shows that faith is not the onlv
Their simple teaching is. Don’t strike back or try to get even thing necessar; to please him. To believe that there is a G&l
with them. Show them that vou are willing to endure hard- is wvll; that is a step in the right direction, but that is not
ness, and even to suffer viol”ence and inj&tice if need be. enouph. There is no snecial virtue in believing an evident
Verses 30-X teach us to show a snirit of liberalitv that will truth; but it is lying anh self-deception to disbeli&c any truth
shame their meanness, nnd a love’ and mercy th& will win of which we have clear evidence. The devils also hclieve and
their secret respect even while they openly bppose us. The tremble at the word of the Lord because they know his power.
kingdom of hrnren suffereth violence now, but in due time Faith must be accompanied by obedience to-God in so lar as
the reward will he realized. the imperfect earthen vessel is able to render it. The daily life
Q. Please exnlain the followinP texts: ( 11 John 3 :36- must give evidence of faith in all God’s promises. and of a
“He-that believeih on the Son ha& everlast&& life; and he love and gratitude which humbly and gratefully accepts his
that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of favors.
God abideth on him.” One other thought might be noted here, viz: thnt the faith
A. It is proper to say that we have a thing either when of devils can onli inspi% trembling, dread and fear, for hav-
we are in actual posqcssion of it, or when we have a clear ing presumptously sinned against God in the fact of truth and
deed or title to it. Thus you might sag YOU have a Diece of knowledge, so manifest to those dwelling in his actual presence,
property in Europe, thougl<gou ar’ not ih&e to possess it, but _..~~. remaineth
t,here ~~~~. no more onwrtunitv for them. That was
you hold the deed signed and sealed and made out in your their iudament dau, and in i’t’theg decided their final destiny,
name. Just EO he that now believeth on the Son of God, the which* is “destruct&n. And know$ it, they tremble as tile
Redeemer who purchased us with his own precious blood; has t.ime draws near. (Luke 4:34: Matt. 8: 29.)
now everlasting life: not that he is in actual possession of it, But because of ‘God’s gracious promises our faith inspires
lmt he holds a clear title to it, signed by Jehovah himself and us with hope and joy; for our judgment day is not yet past.
sealrd with the precious hlood of Christ. But it is a solemn thought that it is passing with those who
Jn the next age, when brought to a knowledge of the truth, hare been brought to a knowledge of the truth. And there-
all the world must likewise recognize Christ as their Re- fore it becomes us, while rejoicing in hope, to “take heed lest
deemer and Lord and trust in and submit to his authoritv, else we fall.”
tiler shall ne\-er see life in its fullness and perfection”;’ and Q. (5) “Then he [Jesus] said unto them [the disputing
God does not recognize as life anything short of perfection. Phqriseesl. I eo mv wav, and ve shall seek me and shall die
The wrath or condemnation of God abideth on all others, and in your sins: ‘;hitGer I”io ye iannot come.”
will end in final destruction, if not removed, either in this age 9. Jesus was eoing awav to the Father to a higher con-
or the next. Only a few are yet free from condemnation (1 dition. the divine Gat;re. l?ad these Pharisees a&d differ-
.Tohn .5 :19), and many blind eyes must be opened and deaf ently,‘they might have followed him to that high exaltation.
car3 unstopped before the mass of the world can believe, come The privilege of following him was soon to be offered to the
Into harmonv with God, and have life everlasting. meek and lowly of heart. And as a mark of special favor
Q. (21 e “He that believeth and is bapti;ed shall be it. wau to he offered to the Jew first: but these Pharisees. in
Gavrtl : hut he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:16. iheir pride--and unbelief, lost their opportunity. Not having
A.’ He that helieveth and is baptized in the likeness of faifh in Christ, they were not even justified, and therefore
Christ’s death shall be of the special class saved during this they died in their sins.
ape. The advantage to the class saved during this ape is the But being blinded-at least partially SO, as Jesus said they
hyih exaltation to”a new nature-the spirit&l. But-he that were (Mntt. 15 :14)-in the coming age their blindness shall
hc~llcvrth not shall be damned, or condemned, as entirely unfit he tyken awav. their Dride will be humbled, and then will they
to receive the favor offered during this age. Nearly all the seek Him wilbm the; with wicked hands had crucified ana
world is so damned, or condemned, but they are not irrecover- slain. and will humhlv acknnwledpe him as both Lord and
ahlr damned as unfit for any service; for we have seen that Christ. And the foriiveness sou& in Jesus’ dying prayer
God haa glorious favors in store for them when they shall will be granted; but the opportunity of following Jesus to
have hewn brought to knowledge, faith and obedience-even the divine nature will have forever passed.
restitution. Q. (6) “And as many as were ordained to eternal life
Q. 131 “And for this rause God shall send them strong believed:” Acts 13:48.
delusion. that thcl should believe a lie: that they all might .4. To ordain means “to set in order,” “to arrange ac-
I SOS]
kfARCH, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOLVEK (8)

cording to rule.” (See Webster.) To ordain, or set in order, cruted, and who, therefore, are not ?lelo creatures, but still
for et&al life, is. partly our work and partly God’s work. of the human nature and heirs with the \rorld of those prom-
God’s Dart of the work was to provide the necessary sacrifice ises of restitution and blessing which shall flow to the natural
for s&, and to make known to-us its efficacy and -our privi- man.
lege of sharing its benefits. Our part of the work is to be- Among all these, light, knowledge, truth shall increase and
lieve God, to accept these benefits, and act accordingly. bring attendant blessings and happiness. FOl a further
If, when men hear, they are not disposed to be- sincere answer to your first question, we refer you to article entitled
and honest with themselves, but rather love darkness than “Sanctifying the Lyorld,” in the T O W E B for Feb., 1883.
light because their deeds are evil, they have not taken the From y&r second question we judge that you do not fully
first step toward the setting in order for eternal life. If appreciate DEATH. Death has passed upon all humanity, and
they are not even disnosed in favor of truth and righteous- all are in death and under its control, even before the last
nesi, how can they be&eve ? The sense of the passage, then, spark of life becomes extinct. Strictly speaking, everything
is that as manv as were disuosed. or inclined. toward truth is ii~ death which is DerishinP: hence onlv two men ever were
and righteousne”ss, believed. $he idea is clearly expressed in fully alive--4dam tlirough & brought heath. The sentence
Rotherham’s translation-“As many as had become disposed against him was, “Dying; thou shal‘i die” (Margin), and a3
for age-abiding life, believed.” soon as the sin had been committed the Denaltv beaan to take
Q. W a s the promise to Sbram, Gen. 13:14-17, ever ful- eflect. ,411d Jesus when he became a man, l&e &darn before
filled? If so, when-if not, when will it be, and how? the fall. had neither death nor cause of death (sin) ,- in him.
A. In Acts 7 :5, we read that God gave to Abram none but “in’ him was life” which he gave as a ransom for ours.
inheritance in the iand of promise; no,-not so much as to All others have been in the dead or dying condition.
set his foot on. vet he Dromised that he would eive it to him Likewise we have seen that resurrection does not merelv
for a p’ossessi&“, and to his seed after him. -And in Heb. mean to lift men from the tomb with only a spark of life, bu”t
11: 13, we read: “These all (Abram and others mentioned) includes this and all the process following it, which brings
died in faith, not having received the promises, but having them up entirely out of the dying condition to the perfectiotc
seen them afar off were persuaded of them, and embraced of their human nature.
them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims Thus seen, there will be no occasion for others to enter
on the earth.” As heretofore shown, the promise will be lit- the tomb when the kingdom of heaven has been fully estab-
erally fulfilled to Abram in the incoming hfillennial Age, and li3hed in the earth. [Which we understand will be about 1914
will soon be realized: for already the fig-tree begins to put A. D.1 The Great Physician-the Christ-will then be
forth whereby we k&w, even if” we hal no other evidence, among men in power and- the work of healing and restoring
that summer is nigh. all things. but faintly foreshadowed bv Jesus’ earthlv miracles.
0. I have read in "FOOD." page 98, the answer to part will co&ence. The”resurrection work will progresl both witI;
of ; query which arose in my *m&d while learning of- the those who are in their graves and also those uot so far down
coming restztutton, viz.: \\-ould there be room for them on in the dark “valley of the shadow of deatn.” and all will
the e&h if the Gillions of the dead were resurrected? But have the strength and help provided, by which thev mav re-
while that is fully answered, I still query, H O W would SO aain the mountain ton of human Derfection and iife \~~hich
large a wvulation subsist? Adam lost the right t; through sin: but which right was re-
-A. I&n if we could think of no way, it should be no deemed for all by Christ.
obstacle to reposing faith in the positive promise of God. Re- Q. What am I to do? I am a Baptist. I cannot no\\
member Abraham, God’s promise to him was most improbable agree with them, and cannot see how I can consistently re-
(Gen. 15.10, and 22:2; 17:21), yet he “staggered not” at main in the Baptist Church-giving my influence and sup-
that, but belieled Uod-so should we. But foreseeing this port to what I now see to be error, even though there are
query on our part, our Father has explained how it shall be good people in it, and some seeming- good morar influence id
accomplished, saying, “The earth shall yield her increase;” beiner exerted bv it. Yet there is no Church here holding the
“The wllderlless and the solitary place shall be glad, and the vie& which tge WATCH T O W E R maintains. Should I yvith-
desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose.” “In the wil- draw ?
derness shall waters break out and streams in the desert.” A. W e can only repeat to you the word of the Lo~tl.
(Isa. 35: 1-O.) Thus we see that the changes which God has quoted and expounded in other issues of the TOWER. If his
in contemplation, indicate that he has foreseen all the neces- iommand, “Caine out of her (Babylon) my people,” be not
sities of his nlan. and will make Drovision for the needs of his sufficient for YOU. what could tee sav that would have more
I

creatures in ‘what is termed a n&uraZ way, and at the same weight with fou 1
time let us remember that he shall be there to superintend W e believe the “Baptists” to have as little error as per-
who turned water into wine. and with two loaves fed five haps any of the sects. ‘Back in the days of Bunyan they were
thousand. evidently very near the Awstolic arrangement of the Church,
Q. Since we read that God can “by no mecGns clear the hut it ilas irifted into &e popular sectarian channel with
mllltv,” how shall we harmonize that with other statements the others-it now has its creed, boundaries and its titled
of S&ipture which show that our sins were imputed to Jesus ministry, and ignores the teachings of the Scriptures to teach
and he died for them: while his riahteousness was imputed human” tradition, and is now as much a member of the
to us, and we shall jive on that &count, or as elsewhere “Image” (Rev. 13:14-17) as any other sect. W e wn see
stated by his (Jesus’) stripes we are healed? no o&er \i.ay for you to ‘do than “to withdraw your name, in-
A. Suppose a man found guilty of some crime is con- fluence and support from the institution.
demned to imnrisonment or $1.000 fine. He has no money, Tou are probably mistaken about there being no menlber~
and is imprisoned. His friends go to the Governor asking of the Church of Christ [whose names are written in heaven 1
his pardon, and get his reply thus: I cannot and will not in your place; and as a member of that Church to wllo~n C:otl
pardon anv man who is really guilty. If you can show that has given greater light. it is your clutv.. ns it should be ~OIII
the law was bad, or that the decision of the court was unjust, joy, Ito lct‘iour 1iglZ shine . and” tbrarrbv bless the otller me111-
that would be a reason why I should do him justice by par- bers. There may be SOIIK’ of them with you 111 the Bnptlbt
doning him, and setting aside the penalty. But if it is ad- (!hurcb, some in the Mcthotlist. Prt~sbvteriau. and other sect-.
mitted that the “law is good,” and the decision and penalty who, while really consecrated to the Lord, have been drcei\ta~I
just, then I can by no means clear the guilty-1 cannot pardon as you were into rendering to sc~ctnrinnisrii the +t~ivice lttc’u/rf
him. for God. Remember that Elijah once tbougtlt hinlself alone.
Suppose, then, that you sold your property, and securing and supposed that all Israel wns \vorshiping B.ral’s imn~e. but
the amount of the fine. went and vaid it FOR the guilty one. God informed li~ni that there \\erc seven tliou-;;lntl wlio li.1(1
Would not this illustrate the sinner’s case? *Jehov& do& not not. So it is today. the truth is dally seeking out those ~110
cleav or pardon them, but redeems them by providing the are faithful and feeding them. All such will heed God’s Word,
ransom for sin. and are willing to face the flown of tire popular sentiment
Q. W h e n the Millennium begins, what becomes of those of the nominal Church, and confess Christ and Iris teachings.
who are not Christians? Are all to die and then to have a It should be our constant endeavor to seek out such. You
resurrection, to be brought to Adamic perfection? know not how many starving saints may be hungering for
A. As you are do&less aware, w6 understand Scripture the breatl \\hich you can supply. Don’t expect to find them
to hold out verv different Dromises to the true Church of among the most popular Christians-the Ott1rnently pious-
this age, from t’hose to the world to be fulfilled in the Mil- though tberc may*6 some such, but as a gcaneral thing it iz
lennial Age. Hence we answer, Your question supposes that now as it was in Jesus’ day, that the 1Joor of this world arr
you ask concerning the world, which, however, includes many the rich in faith. May God bless the hunlblc messengers and
nominal Christians who are in a general way believers in receivers of bin glorious truth.
Christ, but who never have sanctified themselves, never COIN’- Q. 111 the .July issue you say “the Jew . . . . could not
I6071
19) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, Pa.

keep the Law.” Please tell us what portion of it they could A. See “Food for Thinking Christians,” pages 61 and 62.
not keep ? You also mention “the life promised under that If you have none you can get a copy free by addressing this
Law covenant.” TVhnt life was promised under that Law? office.
d. The Law is one whole law with ten divisions. To Q. Please explain Isa. 11: 11. “And it shall come to pass
keep the Law was to meet the requirements of each of the in that day that the Lord shall set his hand again, the second
ten items The promise of life waa to any who could keep time, to recover the remnant of his people which shall be left
the whole perfectly, and he who offended or violated one part from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathos, and from
was a violator of the Law, and had no claim on the life prom- Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath,
laed to the obedient. (Jam. 2 : 10.) The Apostles and Jesus and from the islands of the sea.”
assure us that none but Jesus ever kept that law inviolate, A. This prophecy of Isaiah seems parallel to that of Jere-
therefore he was the only one who had a right to life, hence miah 16: 14-17. “Behold the days come, aaith the Lord, that
it is that the Law did not demand his death, but when he it shall no more be said, The Lord liveth that brought UP
died it was willingly a sacrifice for OUT sins. (See 1 Pet. the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; but the Lord
3.19. 1 John 3.5: John 6:51; 10:18.) liveth that brought up the children of lsrael from the land
The life promised was a right to continue to live-human life. of the north (Russia, north of Palestine, where the greatest
Q. Please explain Rom. 8:14-17. You teach that the number of that people are now found, and from which they
Spirit is not received by any until sanctification, but these are now being driven by fierce persecution), and from all
brethren here addressed were seemingly unsanctified as shown the lands whither he had driven them; and I will bring them
by Rom. 6: 19. again into their land that I gave unto their fathers.” Yes,
d. These two Scriptures are in harmony with our teach- the deliverance from Egypt of the remnant of Israel, who
ing, and with each other. Rom. 6 :4, 8, 11, 12, 18, and 22, lived to see it, was a deliverance they never forgot, but that
show that the persons addressed were truly consecrated in deliverance will seem insignificant when compared to the
heart and mind to the Lord. The “presenting” vs. 13 and 19, great deliverance which the Lord will accomplish when he
refers not to consecration, but to the carrying out or fulfill- sets his hand agoin, the second time, to recover the remnant
ing of the covenant already made. They had covenanted to of that people living in the dav of the Lord, here referred to.
render, or had presented their minds to the Lord, now they For proof that the day of the Lord is now upon us, see “Food
must not forget to spend the life and strength of every mem- for Thinking Christians,” and note that these things are al-
ber of their bodies in his service. ready beginning to come to pass. This day is this Scripture
Q. What became of Jesus’ flesh when he aa a spiritual being fulfilled in your ears-whosoever hath an ear, let him
being ascended to heaven? hear.
_---
\.OL. T PITTSBURGH, PA., APRIi- AND MAY, 1884 No. 9

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

THE DELAY of the last two issues has been unavoidable; a shown in the supper, we commune with or share with him as
variety of circumstances rendered it so. We hope the read- members of the body broken, being made members or parts of
ers will excuse it. The same circumstances will still further the aame loaf. We heard his words to those who asked for
delay the long-promised book, MILLENNIAL DAY DAWN, but we a place in the kingdom, “Are ye able to drink of the cup that
are doing the best we can. I shall drink of?” And with them we answered, By the help
\T’e have removed our business office to No. 44 FEDEIUL of God we are able; and we heard the Master’s response, “Ye
ST., ALLEGIIEKY CITY, PA. Hereafter all mail matter should shall indeed drink of the cup”-ye shall indeed share in my
be directed to the new office. but M O N E Y ORDERS should be sufferings and be privileged to fill up that which is behind of
made payable at Pittsburgh. Pa. the afflictions of Christ: “Drink re all of it.”
Our removal and other circumstances have so far delayed We tried to realize the privilege we enjoy during this
us that we think it nrudent to omit one number and let this Gospel age, in that we are pckmitteh to share in the sacrifice
one do for the two zmontlls. This will help to get matters without which we could not hope to be accounted worthy to
straight in our office, and each subscriber can reckon his sit with him in his throne. (Rom. 8:17.) After supper
quhscrintion aa paving for one month ahead so that it will we sang a hymn and went to our homes, remembering the
he no pecuniary-lo& io any of you. scenes and incidents of the night and following day over
The central noint of interest durine this month was the eighteen hundred years ago, and’ rejoiced to realize that the
commemoration bn the night of the 8th inst., of the death of sufferings of Christ are nearly ended and the glory to follow
Christ our Passover--slain for us. This has always been almost begun.
an interesting occasion, and this last was no exception, as Many letters recently received ask for preaching, and
indicated by ‘our own experience here and the letters received truly the laborers are few. Pray ye the Lord of the harvest
from everv direction from those of like nrecious faith. to send forth laborers into his vineyard, and as you earnestly
In some places only two or three &assembled, in others pray you will come to the point where you will say, “Lord,
more, and some isolated individuals alone, but the general cannot I do something?-Lord, send me.” Whoever seeks will
testimonv is that the Master was present at least in spirit; find, and to those who knock a door of opportunity will open.
and for ‘aught we know was personally present. All seem to Unwillingness to serve in an obscure and small way is the
have felt. “It is eood for us to be here.” trouble with many. In the Lord’s army as in earthly ones
The church at this place had a precious season, several there are more privates than captains and corporals needed.
from other parts making it convenient to be with us. The Let us fall into line, put on the uniform of a Christian life,
little rompany numbered about a hundred, and while we and engage in whatever branch of the service we find opportu-
ljnrtook of the symbols of the botlv and blood of the Lamb of nitv. If faithful in lesser things we mav be advanced to serv-
clod-“our Passover”-we called to remembrance the import ice” requiring still greater aelf-udenial and sacrifice. Let each
of the ccren~ony-the necessity that whoever would be of the seek to put into active service whatever talents he possesses;
first-born must be under the blood and must eat or appro- thus he will prove himself a good and faithful servant, and
priate the slain Lamb. The thought was impressive, too, enter the joys of his Lord.
that we not only partake of Christ Jesus’ merit, but that, as

AN INTERESTING LETTER
Passaic, Co., N. J., March Sl, 1884. will be a new subscriber. Meanwhile please continue aend-
DEAR BROS. :-The WATCH TOWER for this month has not ing the paper, for it furnishes me more food than any read-
reached me, and I think the subscription may have expired. ing matter I can get, explaining to me Scripture, and increas-
Sister - paid it last year, I think, and it seems I ought ing continually my interest in God’s W ’ord. And in almost
not to be among “the Lord’s poor” when I have the comforts every case where I become puzzled or troubled over some text,
of home, etc.; but I am flatly refused the amount for a paper the next paper (by direction of God I am sure, not chance,)
that ha\ been the means of my withdrawal from the M. E. furnishes the solution. I am compelled to suffer because of
Church, and even my postage and change are watched so my non-relation to the nominal church, being accused of self-
closely that I have not been able to save even the small price righteousness, etc., but I endeavor to count it all joy, treading
of the subscription. However, I have the prospect of some alone, like Jesua, the wine-press. Pray that God may keep me
change by washing, which I will send as soon as accumulated, in all humility, makin my calling and election sure.
with that of an acquaintance who is reading my “Food” and f oura in .Jesus, -.
(1, [GO81
 WATCH YE THEREFORE
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.” I Cor. 16:13.

The careless, indifferent, and luke-warm may lightly heed done? 0 how we need to watch here, and to guard against
the words of warning, and scarcely discern the necessity which the roots of bitterness which may spring up!
prompted them; but the faithful saints earnestly aspiring to Has our love for God and our desire for that goodness
attain that whereunto they are called, realize the necessity which so shines in his character drawn us often to his Word ’
and thankfullv heed them. and has our faith so laid hold upon its precious pronuses as
We should” bear in mind that our foes are unseen, wily, to fill our hearts with joy and peace. We know this is the
and deceptive, and that if there is a weak or unfortified lace case with many, but this joy and peace may grow yet more
that is where the enemy will make the attack, We need t K ere- by constant feeding on the Word of truth. Watch here that
fore to study well our position, and to know every avenue by you do not neglect to feed upon the word, and watch that in
which the enemy may approach. First, last and all the time coming to it you may come with meekness, a simple child-
we need to watch that the Spirit of Christ in us is not dis- like desire to learn God’s ways, and not to establish your own.
olaced bv the snirit of the world which so continuallv
1 ~~
sur- While thus exhorted to set a vigilant watch over our
rounds r&d allures us from our chosen course. We n&d to Christian character lest it be dwarfed, withered or utterly
watch that we be not entangled with the cares of this life; destroyed, we are also told to “stand fast in the faith”; and
we need to watch that no root of bitterness springing up may in order that we may so stand fast, to equip ourselves and be
trouble us. We need to watch that the fruit of the Spirit of strong, as men arm and prepare themselves for the battle.
God is manifest in all our actions. Have we got them, and Many make a great mistake in supposing that it is not a
are they being cultivated and developed in us daily? Let us very important matter to stand fast in the faith; but Paul
read slowly and bring not our neighbors, but our own hearts esteemed it of utmost importance. It is po?sihle for every
to the test of God’s Word-“ The fruit of the snirit is love, iov. student of the Scriptures to have a clear, definite, positive
peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meek&&; faith, symmetrical and harmonious; and to be able to-give to
temnerance . . . . And thev that are Christ’s have crucified everv one that asketh, a reason for the hope that is in him.
the kesh with the affection; and lusts.” If o&r faith is not thus definite and clear, we are just in con-
What a glorious character yours must be if you have dition to be blown about by every wind of doctrine. 0 how
all these fruits in their perfection! But that I know you we need to watch here. Only those strongly supported by the
have not. The soil of your heart and mine is too poor to truth will be able to stand in this evil day.
expect so much from it, but are we pulling up the weeds and Finally, not only must we keep a vigilant watch over our
doing the necessary pruning and cultivating; and in conse- faith and character ourselves, but if we would be strong, we
quenve are these fruits developing toward perfection? Is our must watch unto prayer, and thus keep constant and open
love broad enough to make us patient with those whose Chris- communication with the heavenly grace and secure the neces-
tian graces have not developed so rapidly as ours may have sary help in every time of need. Mrs. C. T. R.

WHAT IS IT, AND WHEN AND HOW?

nEA4R SIR: Please explain in your next issue the follow- ings are all filled up. ‘Since, then, this age fills up or com-
ing sentence in the March WATCH TOWEB, page 6, middle of pletes the sufferings of Christ, a share in which is the corcdi-
second column, viz: “Those reckoned saved now, as though tion on which the new nature is bestowed, it follows that
thev had alreadv received the perfect human life, are privi- the attainment of divine glory is limited to the Gospel age.
ledged to relinqkish their clai& and title to it, presenting it Now is the ACCEPTABLE year [or time] of the Lord, i. e., who-
as a sacrifice to God, holy and acceptable to him when of- ever during this time, while the sacrificing is in progress, pre-
fered in the acceptable time. And being thus sacrificed with sents himself a sacrifice to God, will be ACCEPTABLE, provided
Christ.” &c. This relinauishinn their claim to salvation. and he is one of those “called”: and none are called but those
heing~sacrificed with Christ, W-hat is it, a& when and how? who are JUSTIFIED by faith in Jesus as a propitiation or
Dear Sister: It affords us pleasure to endeavor to make satisfaction for their sins.
still nlainer the noint referred to. Former ideas of salvation That only justified believers in Christ are acceptable sac-
were ‘so vape and indefinite that when now we speak as the rifices, and that only such are %aZZed” or invited to become
Apostle did of a “common” or general salvation, and of a heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ” by suffering
special one, many are confused. The central thought in sal- with him (Rom. 8 : 17 ; 1 Pet. 2:20, 21)) is proved by many
vation used to be to us, as with most Christians it yet is- plain statements, and forcibly illustrated in the typical cir-
an escave from everlastina torture. But now we have learned cumstance of Abraham calling a bride and joint-heir for his
that salvation is an es&pe from death, and that it will be son. That is unquestionably an illustration for the calling of
fully accomplished by a resurrection. And we find that while the Gosnel Church as a chaste virgin (2 Cor. 11:2), to be the
salvatioa has been purchased for ALL MEN by the precious Bride, help-meet, and joint-heir with the true Isaac-Jesus.
sacrifice of Jesus, and that consequently all men will be saved It has before been shown that Eliezer. the servant sent to se-
out of death [which includes a release from all present imper- lect her, typified the Holy Spirit of God by which the Church
fections of body and mind], yet we find that there is a special is “called” and “led” to her journey’s end. But the point to
salvation to be shared onlv bv the few. and that the salva- which we now call attention, is the particularity of Abraham
tion [resurrection] of these is”called’ a ihief or first resurrec- about the class of people from whom this bride of Isaac was
tion, and that it is attainable only by a class, aho, during this to be selected. The servant might not go anywhere-“Thou
Gospel ape follow the example set bv Jesus in the beginning of shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the
the ‘age-who suffer distress and reproach during th% age-for Canaanites . . . . but go unto my country, and unto my kin-
Christ’s sake. dred, and take a wife unto my son.” The teaching of this is
To come more particularly to your questions: What is clear-sinners (typified by Canaanites) are not called to be
this special salvation? we answer, It is a salvation from death, the Bride of Christ, no, the invitation is sent to those who
and in that respect like the “common” salvation; but it is are by justification esteemed to he related to God. In a
more, for while mankind in general get back “that which was word, it is those who by faith in the ransom have become
lost” (Luke 19.10) . . viz . *. human nature (a fleshlv image of justified as human beings-these are invited to a still cloqer
the d&&e) in all its beauty and perfection’ of mind and body, relationship, to become joint-heirs.
and a right as such to live forever, these esteemed worthy of Your third question 1s: Ho/o may this chief salvation bc
this chief resurrection, this special salvation, will receive ever- obtained ? We answer: It can be obtained only by the saeri-
lasting life as new creatures of the divine nature. Thus it is fice of the human nature. It must he “workc~tl out.” “1 un
seen that salvation to both is from death and to everlasting for” and “fought for;” we must suffer with Christ it: we
life, but life as human beings to one class, and as divine be- would reign wyth him. We must give up, surrender, sacri-
ings to the other. fice. the human nature and its rights and hones purchnscd
-To answer your second question: When may this chief for’ us by our Redeemer, if in exchange we would* have e\;-
salvation be obtained 1 we answer, In the Gospel age. The in- istence of the same duration, everlasting, but on a higher
vitation to run the race for the prize of our high calling was plane of existence, the divine nature. Though we must w 011;
never made before the Gospel age began. In fact Jesus was it out and sacrifice to obtain it, yet when it is remcn~bt~red
the first one to run the race. He was the first or fore-runner, that the human nature as we inherited it through ~1~lam \\:Is
and we seek to follow in his footsteps, as he hath set us an forfeited and that the justified human nature which \\e cs-
example. This is the age in which as a FAVOR some are cnllecl change was a free-aift of God through Jesus, then it would
to “fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ,” he hit proper ‘to e&em that divine -nature which 11c get III
and to enter into his glory, which is to follow when the suffer- exchange for its sacrifice-as a GIFT also.
I-39 C6091 (I-2)
 DON’T UNCHAIN, THE TIGER
“Don’t Unchain the Tiger!” was the trumpet blast that warning, is not, “Don’t unchain the tiger,” but don’t breed the
terrified triflers at a perilous neriod of the late war. It was t&m-: don’t raise him to life : don’t stir the hot-bed out of
the title of a fly sheet of warning which was not unheeded in which he grows; don’t let us have a tiger among us that
those days. needs to be chained; let us have neither tiger nor chains ;
The warning has again been heard: Don’t unchain the away with the wrongs by which he is generated. Sure as
tiger ! death, in the long run, he will be here if they are not put
-4 warning to the fools of fortune, squatted on their golden away.
piles amid the surging hordes of starvelings: Don’t unchain But what of the men who, in the interest of mankind,
the tiger! ought to vt them away? Congress and the Legislatures are
A warning to the ruck of millionaries whose millions have full of SCK emers who reck not of aught but their own ends,
been racked out of the men by whose muscle they were and think of naught but the bribe-giving corporations upon
created : Don’t unchain the tiger! which they fatten.
A warning to the huge, g&ding, swindling corporations, The people themselves must take things in hand. Chain
which disregard all right and every man’s rights in their up wrong, and chain it strong, before it breeds the tiger.“-
vampirish lust: Don’t unchain the tiger ! John Bwinton.
A warning to the gamblers in men’s food, men’s toil, men’s The above words by a well known representative of the
land, and men’s lives, who grind the faces of the people that labor interest, contain much truth. The Cincinnati riots dur-
fall in their tracks. Don’t unchain the tiger! ing the past month have added another illustration to the
A warning to all who live by the organized brigandage of ferocity of the “Tiger” when brought to life.
the times: Don’t unchain the tiger! But though wise men and good men may cry aloud and
The tiger is gaunt and hungry, as he restlessly trails his warn of the dangers ahead, yet the warnings will not be
chain. heeded. The love of money will still further grind and the
The tiger got loose for a moment in New York, in the sum- love of power will lead to still greater frauds until the Tiger,
mer of ‘63, and we who remember the week of the draft riots bred of almost despair, will devour and destroy his adver-
are not likelv to ever forget it. saries.
The tiger got loose again in the summer of 1877-the Yet this, with other evils, will work out ior mankind a
vear of the continental railroad strike-and it took a hun- deliverance and under the euidine hand of the New King
dred thousand armed men to scare him back to his lair in will prepare the way for the rule of righteousness, when
the jungle. Don’t unchain the tiger! Justice shall be recognized and the GOLDEN BULE govern among
The tiger is not mankind, though he may lurk in the men.
heart of the community. He is bred xhere by wrong; raised to That present government will be overturned by this
life by it he would have no being but for it. “Tiger” is the united testimony of the prophets. Thus God
The right thing to say to the wrong doers now under often causes the wrath of man to praise Him.-EDITOR.

JOY UNSPEAKABLE
.4 good story is told of a little blind child who once had out upon all the beauty there was around her, realizing in-
a surgical operation performed that resulted in restoring her deed as no words could ever show “that the light is truly
to sight. The oculist had skillfully pared off the integu- sweet, and that it is a pleasant thing for the eyes to behold
ment which had prevented the light from passing through to the sun,” cried out with delight, “0 mother, why did you
the retina, and then the eyes were bandaged for awhile, until not tell me it was so beautiful ?” The mother, bursting into
the wounded parts should be somewhat healed. At length the tears, replied : “I tried to tell you, my dear, but the words
hour arrived when the bandage, which had from time to time wouldn’t make you understand.” Precisely; and so, withal, is
been partially and temporarily removed, was to be removed it with the Christian when he attempts to tell what is the
altogether. Ah ! what a moment of supreme interest and joy unspeakable and full of glory, the peace of God that
anxiety to all her friends, but more especially to the little passeth understanding, the love of God shed abroad in the
patient herself, who as yet had never seen. This child, when heart by the Holy Ghost, and what is the excellency of the
her eyes could bear the light, and she was permitted by her knowledge of that Christ for whom he would, if necessary,
kind physician to open them, and for the first time to look joyfully suffer the loss of all things.-gel.

INFIDELS AND THE BIBLE

A German writer relates that at a literary gathering at have said, and undoubtedly with good reason, of this book,
the house of Baron von Holbach, where the most celebrated I do not believe that you, any of you, could compose a narra-
infidels of the age used to assemble, the gentlemen present tive so simple, and at the same time so elevated and so affect-
were one day commenting on the absurd, foolish and childish ing, as the narrative of the sufferings and death of Christ-a
things with which the Holy Scriptures, as they maintained, narrative exerting so wide an influence and awakening so
abound. But the French philosopher and infidel, Diderot, who deep and universal feeling, and the power of which after so
had himself taken no small part in the conversation, suddenly many hundred years would still be the same.” This un-
put a period to it by saying, “But it is wonderful, gentlemen, looked for remark filled every one with astonishment, and
it is wonderful ! I know no man in France who can write and was followed by a protracted silence.-Selected.
speak with such ability. In spite of all the evil which we

CUMBERED W ITH MUCH SERVING

Christ never asks of us such busy labor Well, God loves atience; souls that dwell in stillness,
As leaves no time for resting at his feet; Doing the litt Pe things, or resting quite,
This waiting attitude of expectation May just as perfectly fulfill their mission,
He ofttimes counts a service most complete. Be just as useful in the Father’s sight,

He sometimes wants our ear. our rapt attention, As they who grapple with some giant evil,
That he some sweetest secret may impart; Clearing a part that every eye may see;
‘Tis always in the time of deepest silence Our Saviour cares for cheerfu! acquiescence
That heart finds deepest fellowship with heart. Bather than for a busy mmlstry.

We sometimes wonder why the Lord has placed us And yet he does love service, where ‘tis given
Within a place so narrow, so obscure, By grateful love that clothes itself in deed ;
That nothing we call work can find an entrance; But work that’s done beneath the scourge of duty
There’s only room to suffer-to endure. Be sure to such he gives but little heed.

Then seek to please him, whatsoe’r he bids thee,

Whether to do, to suffer, to lie still;
‘Twill matter little by what path he leads us,
If in it all we sought to do his will.
--Selected.
(2) [‘5101
 FLESH AND BLOOD
“Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink his giving properties of the thing eaten. Now, let 113 see, how does
blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh and it harmonize to say, Unless you oppropriu/e to yourself Jesus’
drinketh my blood hath eternal life.” “The words that I speak human nature given, broken, and laid tlo~n for that very pur-
unto you are spirit and are life.” “It is the spirit that quick- pose, you have no life in you. This j, in perfect harmony.
eneth, the flesh profiteth nothing.” Jno. 6:53, 54, 63. Humanity lost all right to life through Mnm, hrnce are now
It was a custom with Jesus to express truth under cover, dying and dead, having in them no right to life; and though
in “dark sayings”’ and to many this is one of the darkest. the ransom has been given, though the body has been broken,
When they heard it the Jews wondered, saying, “How can it is a part of God’s plan that no man shall cvrr reach human
this man gjve us his flesh to eat?” and many of the disciples perfection (life) again, except by a full recognition of thp
murmured, and said, “This is a hard sayin@ Who can hear it?” rarrsom mice and an awzwoariation bv faith of these rights
And to-day, while it is generally recogmzed that Jesus did which &e man Christ jeiui secured cy giving his flcih (hu-
not mean that they were to eat his literal flesh, few have a man nature) for all. And as fast as we appropriate, God
clear idea of what he did mean. imputes; and thus the righteousness of Christ and its right
Some have hastily concluded that because the Master said of life everlasting, are imputed to us.
his words were spirit or spiritual, that therefore to appreciate Thus by faith we eat or appropriate to ourselves that
them they must seek the very opposite of the literal meaning which was sacrificed for us. Unless we thus eat or appropriate
of the words: and such have concluded that the expression to ourselves the rights and merits of the man Christ Jesus,
“flesh and blood” means a spiritual nature. They overlook who was sacrified FOB us, it is evident that we would have
the fact that Jesus did not say that the flesh was spiritual, but no life, nor right to life ‘in us. It is in or by or through
the words. him that we obtain back aeain the life lost for us bv the first
That the Lord did not refer to a spiritual nature when he Adam-niether is there sal&tion (life) in any other; for there
used the words “flesh and blood,” is easily seen when all of is none other name under heaven given among men whereby
his words are remembered. Did .he not say, “My flesh . . . I we must be saved [from death], Acts 4:12. How dangerous,
will give for the life of the world?” (ver 51.) Did he mean then, is the position of those who deny the ransom and its
that be would give his spiritual nature? If’ so, if he gave necessity and value as the life-restoring power given for the
that for us, then he has not a spiritual nature now; for we whole world. Neither they nor any shall ever have life until
remember that he “pave all that he had.” (Matt. 13:44.) It they do eat or appropriate that which was sacrificed. Hence
cannot be that he give away all that he h&of the divine’na- the Apostle marks as one of the most serious offences any at-
ture for the life of the world. Speaking of the same thing tempt to depreciate that sacrifice, or deny its necessity, say-
again he said, “This is my body broken for you . . . and my ing, “Of how much sorer punishment suppose ye, shall he be
blood shed for manv for the remission of sins.” Who can for thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of
a moment suppose that the divine nature is here meant? Was God, and bath counted the blood of the covenant wherewith
it the s iritual that was broken and shed, or was it the human he u’as sanctified an UNHOLY [common or ordinary] thing?”
-the 4 ody prepared” for sacrifice (Heb. 10:5) and taken for So, then, the eating or appropriating to ourselves of the
the suffering‘of‘death (Heb. 2:Q) 1 Which thihk you? “flesh and blood” [human nature] of Jesus, JUSTIFIES us
In view of these and other statements of Scrinture. let from sin and its penalty death-justifies us to human life and
none interpret these words of Jesus to mean that hiss iritual its privileges. (Rom. 5 18. 19.) This is the “common.” that
nature was broken, and that all are to eat it. Better 4ar con- is tb say; general salvatibn. ‘(Jude 3.) But to the. “little
fess as did some of the Jews, “We cannot tell what he saith” flock” beinn selected or elected out from amone the saved
But some one else suggests that possibly “flesh and blood” world-callsd to be saints, joint-heirs of God “with Jesus
here is used as referring to MORAL PERFECTION, and that all Christ, there is a special salvation mentioned by the Apostle.
must eat or receive moral perfection from Jesus or they have (1 Tim. 4:lO.)
no life. This is as far from the import of Jesus’ words as the
other suggestion, for while it is true that to have everlasting These called’ to this “high calling,” and to become “par-
life all must have moral quality, yet such is not the meaning of takers of the divine nature”’ not only eat or appropriate life
the words of our Lord now under consideration. Let us test by appropriating the value of Jesus’ sacrifice, but THEY do
it and see. Was Jesus’ MORAL PERFECTION “laid down,” more. Having been justified to life as men i. e.. having ob-
“given,” or “broken” for us? Assuredly not; to “break ” or tained back again (in faith) the rights lost for them b;v
give up, or lay down moral perfection, would be to be’come Adam, the call or privilege of this class during THIS AGE IS
MORALLY IMPFBFECT. Hence it is clear that the “spirit” that they may sacrifice or “break themselves, laying down
or MEANING of Jesus’ words was not that we are to eat his their lives as Jesus did, thus becoming “dead rcilh him” in
divine nature nor yet his moral qualities. hope that thereby the shall be accounted worth of the prom-
What, then, is the spirit or import of the words “blood and ise made to them, t E at thev shall live with Kim, and par-
flesh” here used ? We answer, The same spirit or sign% take of the divine nature b&towed on him as a reward-for
cance should be attached to these words here as elsewhere. the sacrifice of the human nature.
Flesh and blood uniformly represent HUMAN NATURE, as many It is thus that the Anostle refers to this class, not onlv
Scriptures prove.* as having eaten or approp’riated Jesus’ sacrifice to themselves,
Now, let us trv this definition of “flesh and blood.” and but also as having become associated with him in the sacri-
see whether it will” fit and flll all the conditions. Was ‘Jesus’ fice. He says of the Lord’s Supper: “The cup of blessing
human nature “laid down,” “given” and “broken” for the which we bless, is it not the communion [shnring] of the blood
life of the world? Yes, verily; he took our human nature, of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the com-
which is a “little lower” that the nature of angels, that he munion [shnring] of the body of Christ? [Is it not thus that
might give it as a ransom for all. He gave his human nature we illustrate the “filling up of the afflictions of Christ?” Col.
as a ransom for our human nature; he bought us with his 1: 24.1 “For we being many are one bread [loaf] nnd one
own precious blood; he “gave all that he had” (Mktt. 13:44) body [the body anointed]” 1 Cor. 10~16, 17.
for us. And thus “as by a man came death, by a man alao So, then, in a word-one loaf of life-giving bread has been
came the resurrection of the dead.” (1 Cor. 15:21.1 It was provided from heaven for all mankind, and during the Gos-
the man Christ Jesus that became our ‘substitute or rkpresen& pel age an opportunity has been offered to some of joining the
tive, giving his human nature a ransom for ours. body of Christ and sharing with him in sacrificing the human
If then, this definition is found to meet all the conditions nature and inheriting with him the divine nature.
under which the expression is used, it is thus proved to be Thus we see that while to have eaten Jesus’ flesh literally
the correct meaning or spirit of the Master’s teaching. would have profited nothing, yet to appropriate the rights
But we inquire: In what sense can we eat Jesus’ human which he wssessed and laid down for men. is to have a right
nature? We m;st still remember to look for the spirit or mean- to perfect ‘human life and all it privileges. ’ “Escept ye eat jhe
ing of the words, for the EATING is as much a svmbol as the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink his blood, ye have 110 Ilfc
flesh and blood. To eat is to appropriate to one’s”self the life- in you.”

THE times are critical, not here alone, but all over the selves, seriously menacing the solidity of all established in-
world. Prospering in purely material interests, as I fully stitutions. Even that great conviction, ever chcriahed as
believe the people at large have never done before, the ele- the apple of your eye, and which really is the rock upon
ments to bring on the gravest moral changes are simulta- which our political edifice rests, the durability of represcnt:j-
neousely at work everywhere. The problems now lavishly pre- tive government, bids fair to be sooner or later drawn into
sented for agitation touch the very foundation of religious question on solid grounds. The collision between the forces
faith, of moral philosophy, of civil government, and even of of associated capital and those of associated labor iq likclr to
human society. New forms of power are developing them- make itself felt throughout the wide extent of human civili7:1-
l Matt, 16:17; Jno. 1:14; Col. 15’2; Phn. 16; 1 Cor. 1550; 1 Pet. tion.-Charles Frmcis Adorns.
I:24 and 3:18, and 4:l.
CSlll (31
 “WHO ART THOU THAT REPLIEST AGAINST COD?”
Ron:. 9: 20.
It is the mistaken idea of some that iustice requires that that it is purely of favor that they have existence in any con-
God ehould make no difference in bestow&g his favors among dition.
his creatures : that if he esalts one to a high position, in jus- But let us confine ourselves to God’s elections among men.
tice hr must do the same for all, unless it can be shown that None, we presume, would question the fact that the election
some have forfeited their rirht. in which case such might of Isaac rather than Ishmael, of Jacob rather than Es&u,
justly be assigned to a lower-poition. and of Israel rather than other nations of the world. to enioy
If this principle be a correct one, it would show that God the special favors of God, were unconditional elections. Anh
had no rinht to create .Tesus hir*her than aneels and then to Rom. 9 : 11 makes the verv Dlain and uositive statement that
exalt hlmc to the divine nature,“unlcss he i&ended to do the the election of Jacob over”E$au was m‘ade before the children
same for all the angels and for all men. And to carry the were born, so that it might be evident that the election was
principle still further. if some men are to be highly exalted to not because of the merit or demerit of either. but of God’e
he partakers of the divine nature. all men must eventually unconditional choice. So also Isaac and the &ion of Israel
he elevated to the same position. And why not carry the were chosen before they were born.
principle to it< cxtrrnle limit, and app!p the same law of pro- “So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that
greeion to the brute and insect creation. and say that since runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy,” or favor. (Ram.
ther are all God-5 creatures thev must all eventually attain 9: 16.) It was not because these chosen ones were better than
llnt'o the very higheSt phe Of &iSb?nCe-the DIVINE "NATURE. others that God selected them, but it was because God hnd a right
Perhaps none would he inclined to carry the principle-if to do as he pleased with his own, and because he chose to ex-
principle it is-so far. Yet if it is a principle founded in ercise that right for the accomplishment of his plans. If you
simple justice, where could it stop short and still be just 7 owned a number of buildings, and chose to use one as a dwell-
And if such were indeed the Dlnn of God, where would be the ing. to turn another into a store. and another into a factorv.
pleasing variety in all his w&k47 All nature, both animate why;, could dispute your right to bo so, since the buildings a&
and inanimate. exhibits the rrlorv and diverqitr of divine Dower your own property? So God asserts his right to do what he
and wisdom. The modest \;i’olet does not del’elop into a’ rose, pleases with his various creatures. And “Who art thou, 0
the blade of grass does not develop into a tree, a bird does not ban, that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say
develop into some other creature. But if progression from unto him who formed it, Whv hast thou made me thus? Hath
lower ‘to higher natures werp a part of God’s <Ian, how in- not the potter power o&r ihe clay to make one vessel unto
ferior that plan wnnltl hr to what it reallv is! If everv blade honor and another unto dishonor rwithout honor1 1” Rom. 9:21.
of grass w&e to become a tree, or ever); flower a roie, and From nothingness all were created by the same divine power.
every forest warbler had ceased itq song, what a weary, mo- “Thus saith the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, his [man’s]
notonous picture we should have! maker: ASK me of things to come. Concerning my children,
But s&h is not God’s plan; for as “the heavens declare and concerning the work of my hands, command ye me? I
the glorv of God. and the firmament showeth his handiwork” have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, even my
in \condkrful varietv and glorv, much nzore shall his intelli- hands, have stretched out the heavens. and all their host have
gent creation e\-hiGit the variety and superior glo of his I commanded.” “Thus saith the Lord that rreated the heav-
power. So we conclude from reason, from the ana‘9 ogies of ens: God himself that formed the earth and made it: he hath
nature, and from the express teaching of the M’ord of God. established it, he created it not in vain, hc formed it’ to be in-
It is very important that we should have right ideas of habited. I am the Lord. and there is none else.” (Isa. 45:
justice. -4 fn~or shonld never be esteemed as a justly-merit- 10-12, 18.) None has a ‘right to dictate to him.
ed reconipen%r. Tf you Iwstnw n favor, and it is received as If God has established the earth, and if he formed it not
nn act of +nple justice. as nothing more than you ought to in vain, but made it to be inhabited bv restored, perfect men,
do, vou feel disappointed. An act of simple justice is no oc- who are we that we should replv a&in& God and sav that
rasi& for special *gratitude. nor is it ani pr;of of love; but it is unjust not to change the’ir’ ni~ure and make thim all
God commcndeth his rrrext love to his creatures in an endless Dartakers of a &ritual nature like unto the angels. or like
train of unmerited &rors. which call forth their love and into his own d&ine nature? How much more iecbming to
praise in return. come humbly to God’s Word and “ASK concerning things to
God had a rinht, if he chose, to make us merely the crea- come,” than to “command” or assert that he must carry out
tures of a brief-space of time. even if we had ne;er sinned. our ideas !
Thus he has mnde snme of his creatures. He might have per- “Lord, keep back thy servants from presnmptous sins: let
mitted us to eniov his blessings for a season, and then blotted them not have dominion over us.” None of God’s children, we
us out of existence. It is oniv of his favor that we have an believe, would knowingly dictate to the Lord; yet how easily
existence at all. but how mu& greater favor is the redemp- and almost unconsciously we may fall into such an error. We
tion of the existence once forfei&d bv sin. need to look into the glass frequently, lest such dispositions re-
And further. it is nurelv of God’s’favor that vou are a man main undiscovered.
and not a hea&; it i6, pu&lp of favor that an&la are angels, The human race are God’s children bv creation-the work
a little higher than men; and it is purely of God’s favor that of his hands-and God’s Dlan with referhnce to them is clear-
.Jesus is made a partaker of the divine nature. Tt becomes ly revealed in his Word. ’ Paul says that the first man (who
all his intelligent’ creatures, then, to receive with humble was a sample of what the race will be when perfect) was of
gratitude whatever God mnr hcstow. Any other spirit justly the earth, earthy; and his posterity, with the exception of
merits condemnation, and if indulgrd will md in abasement the Gospel Church, will in the resurrection still be earthy-
and destruction. It is a mark of grnss ingratitude to say, human-adauted to the earth. I1 Cor. 15:38. 44.) David
“1fv favor is of less value t,hnn mv neiehbor’ci.” and to asDire to says that rnin was made only a little lower than tie angels,
attain a favor not promised. A m& hi9 no right to aspire to be and crowned with glory and honor, dominion, etc. (Psa. 8:
an anprl. never having hem invited to that position; nor has 4-S.) And Peter, and Jesus, and all the Prophets since the
an angel a right to aspire to tlw divine nature, that never world began, declare that the human race is to be RESTORED to
having hcpn offered to them. This was the crime of Satan that dorious Derfection. and are aeain to have dominion over
which hrnu~ht his abasement. and will end in his destruction. earth”as thei; represeitative, Adaurn, had.
(Tea. 14. 14 1 “Whoever cxnltcth himself shall be abased; and This what God has elected. or chosen. the human rare for.
he that humhleth himqelf -hall he exalted,” (Luke 14:ll). And what a glorious portion! Close go& -eyes for a moment,
hut nr>t nrcesarilv to the highest position.’ if you can, to the scenes of misery and woe, degradation and
Pnrtlv from tfiis false idea of in&ice. and nartlv from oth-
1 Y
sorrow, that yet prevail on account of sin, and picture be-
cr rfaa&ni;. the subject of elcctinn RS taught in the Scriptures fore Tour mental vision the glory of the perfect earth. Not
11n; hwn the occakiun of much dispute and misunderstand- a stam of sin mars the harmony and peace of a perfect so-
inv That the Frrintnrrs trarh rlcrtinn few would dens, but ciety; not a bitter thought, not an unkind look or word, but
<!I; ill&t nhnt principlr thr elrrtinn or selection is basea. is a love welling up from eveyy heart to meet a kindred response in
matter of rnn~idrrnblr diffcrrncr of nninion. some claiming every other heart; benevolence marking every act. Then there
that thr rlrctinn is an nrhitrnrv. nnronciitinnal one, and otheri shall be no more sickness, not an ache, nor a pain, nor anyevi-
that it ic conditional. Thrrr’ is a measure of truth we be- dence of decav-not
Y
even a fear of anv such thine.‘I Think of
Y

lieve in hc,th of thcsr rirwi. all the pictures of comparative health and beauty, of human
-in clertion cln God’& part is thr rxprrsqinn of his choice for form and feature, that you have ever seen, and know that
a rrrtain I
nurnosc. ofirc. or condition.
2
11-c have iust seen perfect men and women will be of still surpassing loveliness.
that Cod ha7 elrrtrd n1 rhnsrn that snmr of his “creatures The inward purity and mental and moral perfection will
~hnuld he anprls. that I;nmr should he mrn, that snme should stamn and glorifv everv radiant countenance. Such will
hc hPacts, birdq. insert<. rtr , and that snmr should be of his earth% society hei and &ping, bereaved ones will have their
own divine nature. Wr also see that their rlrction to these trara all witid away when thus they realize the resurrec-
rnnditions is not hecause of their own merit or demerit, but tion work complete.
(3-4) C6121
APRIL AND MAY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

And this is only the change in human society. We call to a pre-determined thing on God’s part; but mark, it is not an
mind also that the earth which was “made to be inhabited” unconditional election of the individual members of the
bv such a race of beings, is to be a fit and becoming abode for Church. Before the foundation of the world God determined
ian. It shall no m&6 bring forth thorns and kriers, and that within a soecific time (the Gospel Age) hc would offer
L

reauire the sweat of man’s face to vield his bread, but “the
A
a special favor to those living during ihat tyn& And the clrles
earth shall” easily and naturally “yield her increase.” “The he then intended to favor (and no otllers) he al<o detrrmined
desert shall blossom as the rose,” and the lower animal crea- to conform to the image of his Son, who is “the expr~~s~
tion will be perfect, willing and obedient servants. All the image of the Father’s person”-that is, he determined to
grasses will not develop into trees, nor every modest flower change the nature of this class from human to spiritual, and
into one monotonous form of beauty. No; nature with its the highest form of the spiritual, the “divine nature.” (2 Pet.
pleasing variety will call to men from every direction to seek 1: 4.)-
and know the glory and power and love of God, and mind and And whom he thus determined to favor hc c:~llrd: hut all
heart will rejoice in him. who receive the call do not appreciate it. Sonic fail to make
Think you that with ungrateful heart man will turn from their calling and election sure, and therrfole of the many
such loving favor to envy an angel’s estate? No, not for an called only a few are chosen. The class who actually receive
instant. We call to mind the expression of gratitude from an the great favor offered “are &led, and fnrfhfltl and chosen”
only child when Christmas morning displayed the special evi- (Rev. 17:14.) Their being called or invited to the high pofii-
dences of n mother’s love. Viewing his treasurers with child- tion is mentioned to show that thev do not presunptuously
ish delight, he said, “Mama, did vnu do all this for one little aspire to it without invitation. ”
boy?” #uch will $e the gratituile of perfect human hearts. “And whom he called, them he also justified.” The claim
Men will not then, a3 they now do, with restless, feverish pulse whom God calls to this high Dosition he first q-crlce,j1ed and
and morbid desire, crave and long for exciting change or great- justified through Christ. ‘au& believers as appreciate and
er vnrietv. No. thev will have learned and nroven that “God- accept the invitation to the high position, w-eie first JI-STIFIEII
liness [@od-likeiessj with contentment is gre’at gain.” 11 Tim. through faith in the Redeemer-reckoned free flom sin. sin l’e-
6 :C,. ) This restless desire for something new, that now pre- ing no longer imputed to them. Being thus divested of all
vails, is not a natural, but an abnormal condition, due to our condemnation, they are free to so run that they make their
imperfection and to our present unsatisfactory condition. It calling and election sure. As long as UC \\CIP In bondage to
is not. God-like to restlessly rrave something new. Most things sin and death we could not move, but hn\inz bv faith passed
arc old to God. and he rejoices most in those things which from death unto life, we are reckoned as fr& f&m1 sin kq the
RYP old. and have attained their perfection. So will it be world will be when actually made perfect, and therefore we
with man, when restnrrd to the image of God. may strive lawfully for the prize of our high calling. Rince
Well, saps some one, will not Abraham and the Prophets, the privilege of running for the great prize n-ns the only ad-
and nthers of past age’;, who were so faithful to God, and who vantage to be gained by being justified during the Gospel Apr.
sufferctl sn much for conscience sake. have a right to feel those who disregarded and did not appreciate the call are
cnrious of the Gospel Church, some of \vhom have n’ot suffered not reckoned justified.
hnlf so much. and yet will be so much more highly exalted? “And whom he iustified, them he also glorified” (Gr. dox-
Not at ~11. They will recognize God’s right to do what he a.zo, honored.) Thei are hdnored now by being set crpart for
will with his own. and thev shall he satisfied when thev this snecial nosition. seuarated from the world. and marked or
nn-ake with God’s alikeness a\ Adam had it.’ (PC 17:EU: sealedX with &his Spirit i and in due time they will be more
X:8: 63:5: 104:13: Jer. 31:12-14.) The perfect man will highly honored in the full realization of the “erceeding great
not know nnr understand the spiritual glory, that being wise- and precious promises.”
Iv hitltlpn from him ; and he will be so absorbed and en- All this wealth of favor predetermined on the Gospel
raptured with the glory that surrounds him on the human Church was wholly unconditional-of God’s own free nil1 and
plpnc. that he will have no aspirations for things unseen and choice. We never should have thought of seeking such a
;lot revealed. A glance at piesent experience iill illustrate thing, nor dared to claim it on the strength of merit, nor to
this-for how hardlv. with what dificultv do those who are aspire to it without invitation.
rich in this world’s ~&rls enter into the kingdom of God. The But as to whether you and I shall be of that favored class
fern p-ml things possessed even under the present reign of is suite another matter. That is cmd~ficmnl. and if wc would
evil nnrl death so capt,ivate the human nature that we need be hounted in this class we must fulfill thnsr rontlitions. all
special help from God to keep our eye and purpose fixed on the of which are well known to us. “Ilet us thcrtfore fear lest
spiritual promises. a promise being left us of entering into his rest, au? of you
We r&ice alsn that the election of the Gospel Church is should seem to come short of it.” (Heb. 4:l.) Whilr the
in a sense an unconditional election: for we read (Enh. 1 .4. great favor is not of him that willeth, nor of him thnt run-
5) that it was chosen or elected “ beiore the foundaiioh of the neth,” it is to him that willeth, and to him that runncll~.
world”-long enough before they were born, to prove that it Having thus, we trust, clcarlp vindicated God’s :~h+olutr
was not of merit, but of favor. And moreover we read that right and purpose to do what be will with his own, wc \\nllltl
“whom he did foreknow he also did predestinate to be con- call attention to the fact that. the principle which chnrnrtrl i/c<
formed to the imare of his Son: . . . and whom he did ure- the bestowment of all his favors is the drqign of rnrh for the
destinate them he ilso called: and whom he called, them’ he general good of all. The highest exaltation is for the ;ie:lt-
also justified : and whom he justified. them he also glorified,” eat service and blessing of all. Let meekness. humilit!- ant1
This shows that the election or choice. of the Church was benevolence make ready the snnc, of God for their hi;11 cclvicc~

“AS” AND “SO”

XEWELI, w. GlbLl)h.

“As thv davs. so shall thv strength be.” Deut. 33:25. “As the living F‘ntllrr 11alh scnl. me. and I li\r 1~~ the
“AS th”e heaien is high above i%e earth, so great is his Father; so he that eateth me. eve11 he shnll live by me.” .Tohn
mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from 6:57.
the west, so far hath he removed our transgresions from us. “As by the offence of nnp jlltlgnlcnt cnmc upon nil nlc11 to
Like us a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them condemnation ; even so hy the ~i,ohlcnll~ncss nf one the free
that fear him. ” Psalm 103:11-13. gift came upon all men unto jn~tificntion of lift. For f7P I)y
“Bs the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the Lord one man’s disnbedicncr man\- \frrc mntlc sinnelq, .so 11~ the
is round about his people henceforth even forever.” Psa. 125:2. obedience of one shnll man;. hc mndc ri~htcnns.” Rnnl. 5
“AS the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways 18, 19.
higher than your ways. As the rain cometh down and the “As in Adam all die, ercu so in Chri*t sllall all he mndr
snow from heaven, and returneth not thither. but watereth alive.” 1 Cor. 15:22.
the earth, and miketh it bring forth and bud, that it may “As ve have therefore rrcrivctl Cl~li-t .Tc~u< the T.nrd. so
give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater, so shall my walk ve’in him.” Cal. 2:(i.
word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not re- As Christ fnrgavc you. so nlin do ye.” co1 R:lR.
turn unto me void, but it shall prosper in the thing whereto “He that snith he nhidrth in him nngllt hilll+clf nlso $0 tt)
I sent it.” Isa. 55:9-11. walk. even as he walked.” 1 .Tolln 2 :K
“As the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden “Herein iq our _.love _ mndr pcrfcct.
_ that _wr ml\- 11:)~~ hol,l-
causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the ness in thr tlnp of jud,mrnt: brcnllsr ns tic 1’. so nir we in
Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth this world.” 1 John 4: 17.
before all the nations,” Isa. 61:ll.
16133
 “THE LETTER KILLETH, BUT THE SPIRIT CIVETH LIFE”
“\\‘ho also bath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth,
but the spirit giveth life.” 2 Cor. 3 :6.
A reckless application of Scripture without due consider- feated in our purpose to glorify God. But, blessed thought1
ation of the contest has ever been a fruitful source of error though we may sometimes thus fall, we shall not be utterly
among Christians. and not unfrequently proves a stumbling cast down, for “the Lord upholdeth with his hand.”
hl~ck even to those considerably advanced in the knowledge of But without a full conviction that we are reallv doiner
the truth. A single expression of any writer or speaker, the Lord’s will in that which we strive to accom$lish, i’t
when isolated from his line of thou&t or arrmment. mieht would be unwise thus to strive against opposition, and
be construed to prore the verv oppos%e of wh& he &en&d. therefore we would inquire, Is there any way by which the
This if done inteitionally wo<ld b;! dishonest. But as a gen- soldiers of Christ may know and fully recognize the com-
eral thing it is merely the result of a reckless habit. A single mand of their Captain? In other words, How may we know
text occurs to the mind from memory, and a meaning is at- when our steps are ordered or directed of the Lord, and that
tached to it without consulting the context to see if the line we are not being deceived by the enemy? The Psalmist, me
of thought there pursued will bear it out. think, gives the key to the answer, when he prays, “Order
For this reason, a peculiar, and we think hurtful con- (direct) my steps in thy Word.” (119:113,) Yes, just so
clusion. has been drawn by many from the above words of the we find it; the steps of a good man are all ordered or directed
Apostle Paul. 11-e would therefore inquire-the letter of in the Word, and with “the law of his God in his heart, none
what, killeth? and the spirit of what, giveth life? of his steps shall slide.” Psa. 37:31.
Many presume that it is the letter of God’s Word and are The Word of God furnishes principles, precepts and ex-
therefore inclined to esteem the nord lightly, while they at- amples broad enough to indicate the Lord’s will in the minut-
tach all imnortnnce to the snirit. But the Word is the voice est affairs of life. but we must have coustant recourse to it;
of the spir%. An esteemed Christian friend expressed the and with full purpose of heart we must not only seek to know;
sentimeni of this class as follows: “I look for divine guid- but to obey it.
ance in three wavs: throueh God’s SDirit. his Drovidences. and Seeing. then. that God has thus honored his Word as the
his Word! which”1 esteem’& the order named.” And some evi- channel ibr communicating his will to men, we cannot con-
dently mistaken leadings, entirely out of harmony with the clude that it is his Word that kills. while his Snirit. acting in-
Word, gave sad evidence that the supposed leadings of God’s dependent of it, and as a superio; guide gives life. If -this
Spirit mere merely the fancies of the %umalz spirit.- “Sanctify were our belief, we should cease to study the Word, and look
them through thv truth, thv Word is truth.” was Jesus’ urav- for the leadings of the Spirit through dreams and visions and
er; and his corn&and, “Se&h the Scriptures. . . . for-they circumstances.
are they which testify of me.” Again he says, The spirit shall But referrin again to 2 Cor. 3:6, we notice that Paul is
receive of mine [those things written in the Scriptures] and comparing the d ewish dispensation with the Gospel dispensa-
shall show them unto you. - tJohn 16:14. tion. He shows that the law given to Israel, which was in-
We have no intimation in the Scriutures that the Suirit of deed ordained unto life. i. e., which eruaranteed life to the
God leads his children through any &her medium than that obedient, was found to’ be &to deat”h, because Israel was
of his Kord. In fact we have the express statement of our totally unable to keep it. The only condition of the law was,
Lord to this effect, in John 16:13-“He will not speak from Obey! and he who fails in one point is guilty of all. If
himself; he will speak whatever he may hear.” (See Diaglott, you can obey it perfectly, then you can have life. But though
R. V., Rotherham and Young.) Israel with united voice said, “All that the Lord bath spoken
To speak from htmself, would be to speak independently of we will do” (Exod. 19:s)) doubtless greatly rejoicing <n the
the Scriptures and to render them of only secondary import- respect of everlasting life, yet not one was able to keep it.
ance. God could speak to his children now in visions and iv hy? Because they had only the letter of the law engraven
dreams, as he did b;fore the Scriptures were completed, but on the tables of stone, and not the spirit of the law (which is
since these, his “two witnesses,” the Old and New Testaments, love) written in their hearts. Therefore as death had reigned
were prepired, he has honored them as the medium for the from Adam to Moses, so it continued to reign, for all wereun-
communication of his will. able because of inherited weakness to keen God’s nerfect law.
We do not doubt that God sometimes impresses some And so that glorious law ordained or ar;anged td perpetuate
scriptural truth or principle upon the mind both in our waking life, was found to be “the ministration of death.”
and sleeping hours, to thus arouse and quicken us; but if we But since the Son of God took our nature. being born under
have any strong impression that is not in harmony with the the law, fulfilling all its requirements, and th& having a
Word of God. we mav be sure that it comes from another srdrit. right to life. gave his life as a substitute or ransom for ours,
and not from the S&it of God. “To the law and to the iesti: we” are intrc&ced into a new dispensation. We are no lon,ae;
many : if they speak not according to this word, it is be- under law, but under grace. (Ram. 6: 14: ) God’s reqmre-
cause there is no light in them.” Isa. 8 :20. ment is not now, “Do if you would live,” but the good news
Just so we would also scrutinize the circumstances of life, is, that “there is now no condemnation to them that are in
lest that which is on1 a device of Satan might be mistaken Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit.”
for the providence of 6 od, and an indication of his will. We In our present imperfect condition, no matter how much we
should call to mind the fact that in this age “the kingdom endeavor to keep the law, and thereby merit life, we fail; it is
of heaven suffereth violence.” that we are opposed bv the impossible. The letter of the law condemned or killed every
powers of darkness at every step. How often- for instance man that ever lived, except Jesus; and very many, ins ired by
when we would make some special effort to advance the its promise of life, tried to keep It in all sincerity. VPerily, it
truth, do we find one or a variety of circumstances conspiring has been abundantly proven that the letter of the law killeth.
against us. And if the adversary can only delude us into the But since we have been freed from the letter of the law
idea that these circumstances are the providences of God indi- by the death of Christ, he having fulfilled and settled our
rating his will, how easily will he accomplish his purpose and obligation, we have a new offer of life on a new condition, viz.,
our hindrance : whereas if we recognize their true source, as if we walk after or strive to keep the spirit of the law. To
+oldiers of Christ we will battle against adverse circum- such there is no condemnation. They may thus have life
stances, and plant the standard of the heavenly kingdom in through Christ. The spirit of God’s law is love. As Jesus and
view of the norld. Paul taught, “Love is the fulfilling of the law.” (John 22:37,
We should not expect to conquer circumstances without ex- 40, and Rom. 13: 10.) We are as unable to fully keep the spirit
rleriencinc suffering. deprivation. and loss of earthlv things; of the law as Israel was, but we are only required to walls
tften ne“shal1 be %o&ded, and sometimes partially defeaied after or strive to keep it, and in so far as in our weakness we
and greatly discouraged. But if our purpose is founded in fail, the merit of Jesus supplies our deficiency.
the truth, don’t let us be deceived into the idea that the It is then the spirit of the law (love) manifested in us,
providence of God is against 115, but let LIS look to the Cap- which, through Christ, gives or guarantees life. Even though
tain for direction as to how we may master the situation. that spirit he not fully developed, “he that has begun the
While thus hearing in mind the policy and deceptive arts of good Gork in us is a$le to complete it.” Our de&e and
our rrrpat onnoser. we also rcmcmber the comfortinp assurances effort to keep the very spirit of the law is reckoned as a per-
that’>‘“The Etbpi of a good man are ordered by theYLord,” and fect keeping of it, while our ability to do so is compensated for
that “Thoueh he fall. he <hall not be utterlv cast down. for hv the sacrifice of Christ. When men are restored to wr-
the Lord nl;‘holtleth him with his hand.” Psa.*37:23. 24. ’ $&ion the law of God will be written in their hearts (ser.
Yes. ci&mstnncc~s which are now largely in the hand of 31:33), and its spirit of love will permeate their whole be-
thr enemv-“the mince of this world.” such as sickness. busi- inn. and its retention will be their guarantee of everlasting life.
ness perp’iexities, ioss of friends, strong opposition by tde ene- Ti& letter of the law killeth, but ‘the spirit of the law $veth
mies of truth, and many things which may appear merely life. “Thanks be unto God who eiveth us the victorv throuah.,
accidental, may even cause us to fall for a time partially de- our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Car, 16:57.)
(4-S) 16141
 THE PRINCE OF THIS WORLD
When Adam was created it was that he might be the Lord act of the spoiler. Frequently it is just the opposite. The
of this world. To him was given “the dominion” [Gem 1: 281 widow and orphan in their anguish doubt the love and good-
after “the likeness” of God: to be an “image” or miniature ness of Him whom they blame for robbing them of their
representation of the Lord of all. When Adam fell., he,H;i loved protector. This is just what the deceiver wanted.
course, lost his birthright-if we may so express rt. ’ When the prophet of the Lord would comfort the stricken
dominion and possessions passed into the hands of the crafty he said, “Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyei
conqueror. Since then Satan has been the Prince and God of from tears.” Why, Jeremiah? Are they in heaven, trans-
this world. ported there as our and the Lord’s jewels, to draw our hearts
Paul calls him “the god of this world,” “the prince of the there, and lead us to follow them, thus putting aside Jesus
power of the air,” etc. Jesus recognized his position in the as our Leader and Desire? No, the prophet of the Lord says:
words of the title of this article. (John 14: 30.) In the “They shall come again from the land of THE ESE1\IY."
great temptation (Matt. 4: l-11 ) , when Satan could neither When the hidden shaft suddenly strikes some one who had
make our Lord to doubt nor temnt the Father. his last des- been apparently well before, ignorance delivers the verdict
perate stake was “the dominion? He evidently knew that “Died by the hand of God,” when a promising and useful mem-
the mission of the Christ was to win back “the kingdom” ber of society falls by the hand of a hell-inspired rutRan, we
which he (Satan) now held and ruled through his minions, are told to bow to the decision of the All-wise.
the blood-thirsty kings of earth. This offer was no farce; it If our Lord set UD his kinedom eiehteen hundred Years ago
was the climax of the temptations, the lust resort of a baflled and has been ruling ever since, woild there not de an &-
enemy. cuse for the citizens who sent the message: “We will not
Hades is-not the place, but-the prison-house of Satan. have this one to reign over us?” Can any one look calmlg at
His castle is in the air. his dungeon is the prison-house of the misery of the past six thousand years’nnd not discern who
death. Into this he has been pack&g his victims since Adam’s has been the ruler of this world? Surely they would ex-
fall. Into this Jesus himself entered, but he captured the claim with Job: “The earth is given into the hand of the
kings, and will yet bind “the strong man,” “spoil [rob] his wicked one; he covereth the faces of [deceivethl the judges
house,” and lead forth “a multitude of captives.” thereof: if not, where and who is he” [the ri htful ruler] 1
Sickness, disease, accidkmts and other mysterious dis- Let those who have the truth stand up f or the character
pensations of Providence (so-called) are but the instruments and glory of the Father and of HI ‘s Soil, who is about to take
of Satan; and the messengers-not of light but of darkness- to himself His great power al?d reign.
by which he gathers in his harvest. Then. when the battle is over. we shall see a different or-
Tbe grim reaper, death, is Satan’s Rrigadier-General-not der of- things; when earth’s sons’ may each sit fesrlesslv and
the Lord%. Can a house be divided against itself? Jesus was peacefully under his own vine and ?lg-tree, rejoicing in the
manifested that he might destroy death, and him that hath fruit of their own nlanting. (Micah 4: 4.)
the power of desth, THAT IS the DEVIL. (Heb. 2:14.) Then there will be no more appalling accide,,ls [ 71 a4 are
The arch-deceiver, he who was a liar from the beginning, now so common-caused frequently by a refusal to bear the
has carefully instructed his messengers to blame the God of expense of safeguards and preventatives.
love for all the misery that exists and comes upon the world. Death is everywhere. Carelessness, recklessness, covetous-
When the cherished little rose-bud baby is secretly strick- ness, drunkcnesss, or devilishness may each be the instru-
en by the arrow of the arch-enemy, it is said to be the Lord’s mentalities, but Satan is the director of all. Let us give the
hand who has trnnsplanted it in Paradise. A very pretty Devil his due in the fullest sense, and bravely stand for the
thought, if there was snr truth in it. although even this Ac- honor of the name of our Lord, praying, "THY KINGDObl
tion (ns wns intended) does not reconcile the parents to the COME."
vi’. I. 5%.
JEWISH HOPES
Referring to the future of Palestine and the hopes of the German unity grew the German Empire into actual fact. pro-
Hebrews centered therein, the N. York Herald says: claimed to the world in Verssillcs, with French cannon to
“While the great Christian Powers stand with mail-clad answer amen to Germsn prayer for its welfare. From the
hnnds to grasp the coveted snd tempting bit (Palestine) when cry of ‘Ttalia irridenta’ was born the new Italy of today,
the moribund Turk lets go his hold, a historic Agure steps whose thunder will again wake Mediterranenn shores. From
forward and declares, ‘The land is mine!’ And when the the tradition of ancient Greece the modern Greece was created.
Powers turn to look at the Speaker they recognize the Jew- So Christians understand how the long cherirhed aspirations
the child of the patriarch who lived in Palestine when it was of the Jew may yet be realized; and while they fully con-
first invaded and who would himself fain be present to re- cede that while to the Jew nbove all belongs Palestine, while
ceive it as his own when its possession is disputed thirty-six he above all is specially qualified to develop the future of
centuries after. that teeming countrv. while his uossession of it wnuld solve
“What a wonderful coincidence! ‘Not so,’ says the Jew, the fears of the jealous Powers’, the establishment of the
‘it is not coincidence, it is my destiny.’ Let us now briefly Jew in it would be an act of justice, and a worthy atone-
glance at the position of the Jew in this question of the future ment for the fearful wrongs perpetrated upon him-the mar-
Palestine. Nations are born from ideas. From t,he idea of tyr of history.”

THE PROPHECY OF RESTORATION

“As for the Jews themselves, to say how they long for res- the exiles returning by all manner of conveynncrs. among them
toration is hardly necessary. On the 9th of their month what he calls ‘kirknroth.’ The F;nglish version trsnqlates it
Ab, they fast for the destruction of their temple and the na- ‘swift beast*,’ whirli is of course. too indefinite. or ‘dromr-
tional calamities attending those events. There is not a morn- daries,’ which is rrrtniuly incorrect. Philologists nre not
ing or evening but what they pray, ‘Gather us together from wanting who derive the \vord knr. ‘R fnruacc, nnd kar-knr ‘to
the four parts of the earth’; ‘Restore our peoples as of old’ ; swap.‘-ssserting thnt the prophet sought thus to cnin R
‘Dwell Thou in the midst of Jerusalem,’ and these words are word for what was <ho\\n him in his vision, n trnin in r;rpid
uttered in every city where the Jew is found-that menns motion. ‘When Nicholas reigns redemption comes’ is in al-
throughout the world. Such constancy is almost beyond be- lusion to Isaish 63: 4. from which verse Hebraista evolve, by
lief. Their patriotism is beyond all bounds, and to this dny what they term ‘Raise Tehotlr.’ the sentence, ‘All ,Tudslr ~11.111
the Spanish Jew in sll lands (even in this distant country) 1 hear and behold the fall of Nicholas, emperor of hIuwov\-, on
put some of the dust of Palestine or ‘tierra Santa,’ as thcp nccount of the opprc+ion of the children of Judah, nnd aftrr
call it, on the eyes of their dead-a pathetic evidence of therr happening our fall w111 hnpp~n our real redemption. :~nd ncsr
love for the sacred soil. st hsnd for thr rhiltlrrn of ~Tutl:~b will bc the good tidings of
“‘When the railway reaches Jerusalem, Messiah comes,’ al- the Gichbite prophet. Thrse nnd SU~L as these are import-
ludes to Isaiah 013: 20, where the prophet in his vision sees nnt inasmuch as they indicate ,Tewish thought.”

THE LIBERTY OF THE SONS OF GOD

“The creature itself
also shall be delivered from the bondagr of corruption into the glorious liberty of
the children of God.” Rom. 8 :21.
At present none have liberty; the entire human race is captives along the pnthwny of suffering, dorm to the prison
under a fearful yoke of bondage. A bitter, relentless and of death. Rp reason of this“ the whole creation groaneth
merciless enemy holds the dominion, and leads his unwilling and travaileth together in pain.”
[6161 (S-6)
16) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

Eut. the earnest expectation of the creature wait&h for than the angels” (Heb. 1: 4; 2 Pet. 1: 4) that is, the bondage
&liverance. Will it ever come? Six thousand years of ty- of corruption, or death. As Jesus was delivered from the
I :lnny and suflering has not obliterated earnest expectation bondage of death, and as the church will be delivered from the
:lnd longmg hope. All do not hop for deliverance because of bondage of death, so likewise will the whole creation be de-
the plonnee of God. \\.ith many the hope is begotten of de- livered from death. “Now Christ has been raised from the
ail c. From the very earlic3t ages of history men have hoped dead, a first-fruit of those having fallen asleep.” And just as
for n good time coming, a “Golden Age,” in which a balm for sure as the first-fruit came. so surelv will all the after-fruits
life’s v.i~ious ills should be discovered. Groaning in pain, they appear. All will enjoy the $ame libe”&y from death, and from
~.llted and hoped, though they knew not, and know not yet, all its accompanying distress and sorrow. All tears shall be
how their earnest expectation shall be more than realized. In wiped away.
some hope has nlmoit died out in despair, or has become vague But there is still something more implied in this expres-
and uncertain; but believers in the Word of God, clinging to sion. “the glorious libertv of the sons of God.” It carries
his promise. &siously inquire. How long, 0 Lord, ho% i&g witi it the ydea that the liberty which God will grant will not
must ne n nit for its fulfillment? To this inauirv the inspired be license to follow the bent of a depraved nature, but that it
Apostle replies, that mankind must wait the-m&ifestati& of will be a blessed liberty that depravity, and full freedom to
the Sons of God; and the saints must wait until the entire follow the inclinations of a nature free from sin and in har-
“body” of Christ, of \\hirh they are members, is compZete and mony with God, where the good of self and others will receive
adopted to the higher plane. due and equal consideration. Surely that will be glorious lib-
Again \\e incluire of Paul, Who are these sons of God, and erty. Men sometimes call that liberty which is only Satan’s
ho\\ ~111 they be manifested? His answer is that all those license to trample on another’s rights; but how different will
who are now led by the Spirit of God, and who consequently be the glorious liberty of the sons of God ! Though Jesus and
received the smrit of adoption, are the sons of God, for whose his bride will be of the divine nature. while the mass of man-
manifestation’ the groaning creation waiteth (vi. 14, 15). kind will have a restitution to the ‘perfection of the human
These adonted sons-adonted into the divine familv. made nar- nature, all will enjoy the same blessed liberty from the bond-
takers of ‘the divine nnt;re, and joint-heirs with “iesus-ihall age or corruption (death), and the privilege of following the
be manifested together with him. When he shall appear, inclinations of their perfect being, which will be in harmony
then shall thcv also annear with him in glory. Col. 3:4. with and well pleasing to God.
For this $lorious ippearing of the &vine sons and heirs One other statment of Paul in this connection-‘The
of God the groaning of creation must await. But thank God! creature [mankind] was made subject to vanity [frailty-
we have thg glorio<s message to bear that the manifestation Diaglott], not willingly, but by reason of him who hath sub-
and the blessing are just at hand. At present the world does jected the same in hope.,’ (v. 20) That is, God, through the
not recognize the sons of God, for now they, in following the penalty of Adam’s transgression, placed the entire race under
footsteps of their Lord, are as he was, despised and rejected of death’s dominion and bondage-made them subject to it. Not
men. But shortly this will be reversed, and mankind will that man willingly came under the control of his captor, death,
recognize their exaltation and glory. Already their Lord and but contrary to his will and choice, God nut him under it as
head has come to gather and glorify his chosen ones. a penalty f& transgression.
The deliverance of the groaning creation, we are told, is Yet it was not a hopeless bondage, for when God condemned
to be into the same glorio& liber’iy that these sons of God and gave mankind into death’s control, he planned his redemp-
will then be enjoying. It will be a complete deliverance from tion and ultimate deliverance acain to the former libertv-
the bondage of corruption. When all are fully delivered “there the liberty or freedom from death and pain which is the c&l-
shall be no more death. neither sorrow nor crvine. neither shall mon privilege of all God’s sons on evefy plane of being. In
there be any more p&n, for the former t&n& are passed hope also that his experience under bondage would be of future
away.” Rev. 21:4. benefit, and forever thereafter deter him from evil.
It is the mistaken idea of some that deliverance into the For this very purpose-the delivering of the groaning
liberty of the divine sons of God means a transforming into creation-the sons of God, now being prepared, are shortly to
the same nature and condition. But deliverance, or liberty, be exalted to that nature and consequent position of power,
has reference simply to a common bondage, in which both which will enable them to accomplish the glorious work-a
classes had been held, and from which both classes will be re- “RESTITUTION of all things s oken by the mouth of all the
leased, one class to the perfection of life as human beings, “a holy prophets since the wor Pd began.”
lztlle lower than the angels,,’ (Psa. 8: 6, 6)) the other class MRS. C. T. R.
to perfection of life in the divine nature-“so much better

NO USE
There is no use in putting up the motto, “God bless our liberal man deviseth liberal things,” while the money clinks
home,” if the father is a rough old bear, and the spirit of in the pockets of “the head of the household,,’ groaning to get
discourte>y and rudeness is taught by the parents to the out to see the light of day. In how many homes are these
children. and by the older to the younger. There is no use mottoes standing-let us say hanging-sarcasms, which serve
in putting up a motto, “The Lord will provide,” while the only to point a jest and adorn a satire! The beauty of quiet
fntllcr ii +hiftlc+s. the mother is shiftless, the boys refuse to lives, of trustful, hopeful., free-handed, free-hearted, charitable
work, and the girls busy themselves over gew-gaws and finery. lives, is one of surpassmg loveliness, and those lives shed
There IS no u\e in putting up the motto, “The greatest of their own incomparable fragrance, and the world knows where
the-e i3 charity,” while the tongue of the backbiter wags in to find them. And they shall remain fresh and fadeless when
that fnlllll~, and silly gossip is dispensed at the tea-table. the colors of pigment and the worsted and the floss have faded,
The 1~’i- no use in placing up conspicuously the motto, “The and the frames have rotted away in their joints.--SeZ.

SPIRITUALISM AND THE CHURCHES

Dr. Sprecller. \\hile pastor the First Presbyterian church spiritual existence between death and the day of resurrection,
In Oakland, Cal., pre:lclietl against Spiritualism, or at least in during which period the soul was conscious, but in a differ-
-uch a manner that Spiritualists could not claim him as one ent state from that upon which it would enter after the final
of their fraternitv. But a sermon of his on Sunday evening, judgment. This caused some doubt, but it was dificult to see
February 24th, i;l Calrarv church, San Francisco, of which the reason why. The Scriptures speak of angels and minis-
he i- pastor, pre-ents lliln’in quite another aspect. It is true tering spirits, and there are also instances mentioned therein
that in thiq icr1tton. or lecture, as it was called, he speaks of the spirits of the departed reappearing, while there is not
:Ig:linst spirit mc~l~ums and mnterialization ; but Spiritualists a word which prevents a belief in the power of a spirit to
‘\111 cn~e littltb fur that while be endorses and pleads for all revisit the earth if it so desired. The probabilities were all
tliat i, e-sential to the existence and growth of Spiritualism. one way, and it was not at all unreasonable that if in the
‘1‘11:1 t u e are correct in this statement every reader must admit spirit world we retain the affection for those we leave be-
!\ 11~111:t. any I\nc~ulctlge of s%~Jirltua~im and of the claims upon hind, which we entertained while on earth, that we should
\\III~ 11 it ii JJ:I,u~, \\hen he reads the following, which we clip desire to see them again. The speaker believed that the af-
from thr Vhron,rle’s report of this lecture: fections did not die with the body, and that our friends,
“The bul,icAct of Dr. Sprecher’s lecture last evening was, either as disembodied spirits or as spirit bodies, may visit
‘Do the: spirit-, of the departed revisit this world, and do they and minister to us. This belief was not Spiritualism, as the
rrmnife-t them-elves to men at this day?’ There was, he term is generally understood, and was not incompatible with
4d, 311 alnlo-Jt unirerzal belief in an intermediate state of Christianity, and a Christian who held such a belief should
C61’51
APRIL AND MAY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (6-T)

not fall into the error that he had forsaken his faith and appliances. The speaker had no faith in the habitual appear-
must therefore seek refuge in Spiritualism.” ance of spirits, but there was one case in which it did seem
We record our emphatic dental of the assertion that the possible for the spirit of one to communicate with another-
Scriptures give any instances of “the spirits of the departed at the hour of death. Manv instances have occurred u here
I

reappearing,” and we invite any one to point out to us t.he a person has been apprised of the death of some dear rela-
texts wherein such reappearing is su posed to be given. tive or friend in that manner, and the fact of the death and
We will examine them in our columns Por the benefit of our the very hour and minute has been suhsesuentlv confirmed.
readers. together with the circumstances as they appeared”at the time:
Put, aside from this, we remark that the doctor is right The power of the mind and will of one unon I another in cloie
in saying that the belief he announces is “not incompatible sympathy of thought and feeling was very great, and it was
with - Christianity”-as he and his associates und&and possible that the soul in its extreme experience might com-
Christianitv. But we insist that it comprises all that is municate with a kindred soul. These occurrences could not
vital to t”he existence of Spiritualism. ‘And Spiritualists be coincidences. But this was not Spiritualism. The com-
would no doubt rather have the doctor remain in his church munications came direct without the aid of a medium. The
and bring up the members to a recognition of spirit inter- speaker concluded by warning his hearers against the danger
course and spirit ministration, than to leave the church and of being led into grave mistakes by listening to the advice of
nrofessedlv “seek refuge in Sniritualism,” where his influ. mediums, who are often in collusion with those who soueht
lnce in f&or of the aisumed iacts of that belief would not not their welfare.”
be so great as it now is, as pastor of a popular orthodox We cannot think he has shown his reasonine nowers to
church. great advantage, according to this report. First,-e;ery prob-
And SpiritualrCits will not care much for his avowed dis- ability, and facts of Scrinture. he claims as nroof in favor
belief in the reliabilitv of mediums. They are always ready of the .spirits of the departed reappearing. Then he states his
to admit that there are impostors among the mediums, and belief that the interest of the departed in the welfare of the
this admission robs the doctor’s indictment of its force. But living is not lessened bv their death. And next he attacks
when he claims that his statements will apply to all mediums, the mediums, clairvoyants and materializers as humbugs, and
then they confront him with some millions who oppose their finally claims the vossibilitu of one snirit communicatinn with
observation and cxperienre to his, many of whom have put the another at the hour of de”ath. Bud “possible” has nc more
mediums to the severest tests, and are fully convin&d that place in this connection than in the other cases, as phenomena
there was no collusion or trickerv in the manifestations. We are presented under other circumstances which can be ac-
give the doctor’s position on this”point as reported: counted for only by admitting their supernatural origin. And
“He then turned to the second head of his discourse, and if his premises are correct. then all the phenomena shown
said that whether or not spirits did manifest themselves at by the most pretentious mediums mny be true or genuine.
the uresent dav. was a auestion of fact which could be put To admit his premises is to admit the possibility of every
to tire proof. I ‘The modern Spiritualists assert that they claim of the Spiritualists to be iust.
can materialize spirits, and volumes on the subject have Not long since we saw the belief expressed by a writer
been written bv men of science and of no science. If such that Bishop Bowman is a Spiritualist. We heard the Bishop
a thing were irue, it was the most stupendous subject of speak of the presence and ministrations of his departed rn
the age. It was a subject to which the speaker had paid a such a manner as to lead us to believe that he was a full
great deal of attention, and after carefully following up the believer in Sniritualism
I
: and his disclaimer. immediatelv
records of all the most celebrated mediums of the world, he made, did not change our opinion, if he meant ‘just what hiUs
was unable to recall one who had not, sooner or later, been words expressed.
proven a fraud. Whenever any one was bold enough to seize These positions of well-known ministers are the positions
the materialized snirit. it had turned out to be either the of hosts of ministers in the land who are making Snirit-
medium or an accomplice. This had occurred so often that ualism popular, and preparing the way for its gen’erai RC-
there was no room for doubt in the mind of any one that ceptance by the churches. The chwches and the rSpiritzca2ists
the whole thing was an imposture. Again, if a medium could are draloing more closely together. In a “reception” recently
call up the spirits of the mighty d;ad .they could tell us given to a Mrs. Lord, in Boston, she said, as reported in
somethine new ; but. although the spirits of the great masters the Bamner of Light:
of poetri and prose; great scientisti and inventours, have been “She remembered that in the audience before her were
trme and again materialized. thev seemed to have left all some who had not yet seen their way clearly to accept the
their genius” behind them, and know no more than the least light which was shining unon the nathwav of mortals to-Oav.
gifted of mortals. And this could not be laid to any lack of But why should the Christian Church deny the possibility of
expression or want of education on the part of the medium. present as well as past inspiration. Though human tongues
fo; a great as well as a small thought could be expressed fall out of speech, would immortal love send bark no echo
in defective language.” across the waves of death? Could he who promised the full
Thousands upon thousands have with him concluded that harvest forget the weenine sower? If such a bridre as that
A v

“if such a thing were true, it was the most stupendous sub- of Brooklyn could be reared hy feeble human means across
ject of the age.” And the great majority, having a rester the pulsing tides, could not angel-minds plan and spirit-
love for popular error than for unpopular Bible trut f , will workers build a bridge of communion over the soundless
take the -p;emises assumed and laid aown by Dr. Sprecher, waters of death? Spiritualism enme to take away no one’s
and lorricallv conclude that the thine is true. We do not faith, but to pive Bnozcledce to eaclr and all-to make assur-
believe -that” mesmerism, psychology ‘;r clairvoyance can be ance’doubly sire that theYcourse of human life is an upward
explained upon natural principles. We are aware that pro- one, and the chain of being stretches through an eternity of
fessed scientists have their explanations of these things, but, progress.”
_ -
as one said to us when closely questioned on the subject’ This profession that Spiritualism came to take away no
“That is our theory of the matter; but whether or not it is one’s Christian faith. but rather to rive I;~‘o~~Zcdae of that
0

true we cannot positively say.” Hut the number who have which before was only belief, is “a new denarture” -’ for Snir-
heard inexuerienced and illiterate mediums. while entranced. itualists, but they are all ‘fast, sdrancing’ to that position.
sneak in l’anguage which they could by no means command All now claim that Spiritualism is a religlorz, while very many
in their normal conditions, is so large-that the last part of claim that it is the christian religion perfected. This
the narapranh ouoted above will have no effect at this dav is their Dart of the “comnromise.” while the churches
in o;erthuo&ng*their claims to “spirit inspiration.” The foi- are admit’ting the return of the ’ spirits of the dead.
lowing paragraph concludes the report. As it is a noteworthy and their intercourse with mortals, which is all that Spirit-
discourse on the subject, we thus give the report in full: ualists ask them to admit, and the members are assured that
“There were many who believed in Spiritualism because they need not leave their communions because of their en-
they saw wonders which they could not account for on natural tertainina such belief. If anvthine more is needed to nlnce
principles. But that was simply folly, for no medium had the chur~hea and Spiritualists on”common ground, we ’can-
ever performed tricks equal to those of the nrofessional iug- not imagine what it is. These main points admitted. minor
glers bf India, who disclaimed the agency of any supernat% questions will settle themselves.
Dower. Thev are simulv illusions.
I
Mesmerism and clair- These things are not unexpected to us. He who knows
voyance and mind-reading, which are agencies of mediumism, “what is man,” and “who knows the end from the hrein-
are all explainable upon natural principles, as is also the be- ning,” has placed on record in the “sure word of prnph&y ”
lief that many persons have that they see spirits. Medical just such a state of things. Miracles to deceive. vet profes-
works abound in instances of the latter, and prove that it sing a pious intention, are plainly spoken of 111 licv 13 and
is the result of an abnormal condition of the system, and 16. as beine done in the last dnvs Our Pnviour. in %tt.
that these supposed visions can be produced by mechanical 24: and Pail in 2 Thess. 2, speak of these t,hinga, and all
C6171
(7) ZION’S WATCH TOWER

place these deceptions just before the second advent of the way, and choose darkness rather than light, we pray that
Lord. \\‘hy, oh why, will not Bible readers and professed God will give zeal and power in the proclamation of the mes-
Bible believers look at these matters candidly, and accept sage, that a little flock, a remnant, may accept it and re-
the warning message which heaven sends for our instruc- ceive the kingdom as their reward. (Luke 12:31-37.)-
tion at this time? If the multitude will follow in the broad Selected.

WHAT SIN W ILL DO

There was but one crack in the lantern and the wind has but by the weakest link, for if the weakest snaps what is the
found it out and blown out the candle. How great a mis- use of the rest? Satan is a close observer, and knows exactly
chief one unguarded point of character may cause US! One where our weak points are; we have need of very much watch-
spark blew the magazine and shook the whole country for miles fulness, and we have great cause to bless our merciful Lord
around. One leak sank the vessel and drowned all on board. who prayed for us that our faith fail not. Either our pride,
One wound may kill the body. One sin destroys the soul. It our sloth, our ignorance, our anger, or our lust would prove
matters little ho\\ carefully the rest of the lantern is pro- our ruin, unless grace mterposed; any one of our senses or
tected, the one point which is damaged is quite sufficient to faculties might admit the foe, our virtues and graces might be
admit the wind, and so it little matters how zealous a man the gates of entrance to our enemies. 0 Jesus, if thou hast
may be in a thousand things, if he tolerate one darling sin. indeed bought me with thy blood, be pleased to keep me by
Patan will find out the flaw and destroy all of his hopes. The thy power even unto the end.-C. H. Spurgeon.
strength of a chain ia to be measured not by the strongest,

THE TRADITION O F THE MEHDI

Oddly enough Mohammedans are the most stubborn of But these lesser tokens only lead up to the greater signs,
adventists, looking forward with full assurance of faith to without which the end of the world will not come. Promi-
the second coming of Christ. Closely connected with this nent among these greater signs is the appearance of the
article of Moslem belief is the doctrine of the Mehdi, who Mehdi, or “Guide.” He will be of the family of the prophet
is to prepare the way for the coming of Christ and is to and his name will be Mohammed, son of Abdulla. He will
assist him in conquering an evil world. The universal ac- be a perfect man, full of holy knowledge, and he will come
ceptance of this doctrine by all Moslems is the source of the at a time when there is no longer a Caliph. This provision,
attention now paid in the Moslem world to the claims of by the way, the Soudan Mehdi avoids by declaring that the
any adventurer who calls himself a Mehdi. Turks are not true Mohammedans, and that, therefore, their
Since the fame of the rebel chief of the Soudan has ex- Sultan cannot be recognized as Caliph. The Mehdi will be-
tended to the ends of the earth, it may not be amiss to group come the center about whom all true believers will be
together the prmcipal traditions accepted among Moslems grouped. He will himself believe that which is true in the
as to those last days of the earth, of whose approach the faith of all religious sects, and all true people of God will be
coming of the Mehdi is to be a sign. united in him without sectarian difl’erences. All these peo-
The Koran forms but a small part of the basis of the ple he will lead to Jesus Christ. For about the same time
Moslem faith. It is explained and extended by a vast array with the coming of the Mehdi, Moslems believe that Dejjal
of reputed sayings of the Prophets, These traditional say- (Anti-Christ) will appear. Some seem to regard him as a
ings are authenticated by a long chain of evidence, and have beast, but the best authorities among the Turks declare that
among most Moslems equal force with the Koran itself. this Dejjal will prove to be a one-eyed Jew from Khorasan.
It is in these traditions that one must look for the full de- On his forehead will be written the word Kiufir (blasphemer)
tails of the prophecies by which Moslems are taught to fore- in letters which all true believers-and they alone-can read.
cast the approach of the end of all things. It is true that Seventy thousand Jews will follow after him, and he will
the traditions are often conflicting and abound in wonders. go through the whole world, visiting all countries, during a
A Moslem divine once said to me frankly: “I am ashamed space of forty days. It should be remarked, however, that
to speak of these things; for when men set about making a of these forty days the first is to be as long as a year, the
religion they always forget that their work will be criticised.” second as long as a month, the third as long as a week, and
But the traditions are accepted by the masses in Turkey; the rest each twenty-four hours long. During the time of
and he who should openly reject them would be accounted this Dejjal Moslems expect that Jesus Christ will descend
as worse than a blasphemer. The traditions are the main from heaven for a period of forty years. He will slay Dejjal
source of the Moslem religion as expounded in Turkey. with a iavelin. and then the whole earth will be filled with
Mohammed is reputed to have said that the world was al- righteou&ess. . Neither man nor beast will any more know
ready in its last period when he entered upon his ministry. hate, but everywhere happiness and equality will reign. So
“Comparing your times with the times of past revelations,“’ shall begin the last stage of the earth’s existence. Then other
he said, “your epoch is the time between mid-afternoon and great srgns and wond&s will occur. Gog and Magog will
sunset.” The Jews had the morning, the Christians the overrun the earth, and by their oppression of the people of
noon, and to the Moslems was given the perilous period of God will usher in the last day. Then they will be miracu-
the decline of light. The duration of the Moslem era is lously destroyed, and God’s true people will be translated
fixed by tradition at more than one thousand and less than in the twinkling of an eye, so as to escape the horrors of the
fifteen hundred years. age of fire.
These signs of the end are to be of gradual development. Such is the tradition of the Mehdi and its chronological
There will be an increase of ignorance among the peo le. importance to Moslems. In Turkey, pious souls point out
The exposition of the holy law will decline and cease. Ifoc- that the demoralization of the people is fully up to the mark
tore of the law will be wicked and oppressive. The people that has been foretold. Immorality is rife. Men are crushed
will drink wine. The fool and the son of a fool will become for speaking the truth. The one fixed rule for business is
a ruler of the people, and men will give bribes to be daliv- fraud. Ignorant men are put in high places. Courts of the
ered from his wickedness. Men will obey their wives and holy law sell their decrees to the highest bidder. Women are
disobey their parents. It can easily be seen that the time of the discontented with their state of subjection, and they hate the
end cannot be far off if these are its signs. New Yorkers had uncouth envelopes which the law forces upon them in the
best look around them as they read among other tokens that nlace of a eraceful dress. The vear 1300 of the Moslem era
“very high houses will be built, and love for musical instru- has passed.” According to the traditions, the world has less
ments will increase,” in the wicked last days ! than two hundred years to live, and it is high time for the
There will be so great a scarcity of honest men that every Mehdi to come. With an eagerness that arises from sincere
trustworthy man will be famous far and wide, and those faith in these prophecies, the Moslems of Turkey watch every
who are accounted wise and brilliant will not possess the obscure man who seems inclined to rise up and become a
smallest atom of faith in God. The people will hate! and leader of the people. Any such man they are ready to hail
try to deitrov all who speak the truth, and missionaries of as the Mehdi, if they can find for their faith the shadow of an
Anti-Christ \<ill preach, in all the world, lies acceptable to excuse.
men. Finally, most terrible of all, women will become. re- There is something pitiful in the sight of these multi-
helliou;, and will begin to put various sorts of curiousd:t;rey tudes, conscious of hopeless corruption, so enervated that they
on their heads. and will begin to wear tight-iittin l . have hope of renewal only in a direct intervention of God,
11-c 111sy. prrhaps, agree with the pious old MOR7 em who, and yet so convinced that this intervention can only be
long \(.arc azo. grouped these “signs” together- “My breth- through some visible agency that they are content mutely
ren, ihe most of -these evil customs are already in full vigor to drift along just as they are rather than risk taking steps
among you.” which might be disapproved by him that is to come. But
APRIL AND MAY. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

pitiful ae the spectacle is, there is in it much to stir the sword all the Christians of the present day; modify the
Christian’s heart. picture of the faith of these people by all such considerations,
The followers of the false prophet are at last arriving at and still you have the fact that the waiting millions of
an epoch in their history when they are taught to erpect en- Islam believe the time to be drawing near when Jesus hhall
lightenment through Jesus Christ. Discount, because of their teach them the truth. To the Christian there is something
wrong idea of Christ, all we choose from this expectation thrilling in the thought that even now the Moslem nations
of the Moslems; allow for their supposition that Christ will are anxiously watching for a “guide” to lead them to Christ-
come to enforce the Koran upon the nations; remember their H. 0. Dwight, of Constantinople, i,l iv. Y. Zvsdependent.
5rm hope that Christ’s first act on earth will be to put to the

TENT-MAKING IN CORINTH
Among the Jews in early times it was customary to teach not suppose that Aquila and Priscilla were Christians pre-
all the children the full details of some useful calling . . . . vious to Paul’s arrival at Corinth. . . . Probablv Paul wa$
And here now in a verse we learn that Saul of Tarsus had the instrument in their conversion. Think of ihe glorious
been reared to the trade of a tent-maker in his early years, talks they had together!
and resumed it as an occupation when, as Paul, the apostle, II. So now we reach a second question: What was the
some necessities fell upon him to understake the work of er- effect of this apostle’s working at his trade upon his pro-
sonal support. There will be profit in our contemplating Ii-lrn fession as a Christian preacher? \I’e answer, It gave vast
in this altogether new character as a working-man about his force to it.
business. 1. For one thing? it illustrated his often-repeated maxims
I. Let us begin with a careful examination of the singu- concerning the dignity of honest, labor. If an able-bodied
lar artisan life he lived in Corinth. follower of Jesus Christ refused to work, he had no right
1. Our earliest point of notice is found in the fact that to eat. 2 Thess. 3 :7-13. This vigorous and busy apostle
he chose a decent aid reputable calling. This trade was an evidently believed that there remained no room whatsoever for
honorable one for the craft was composed of industrious citi- drones in a Christian hive. . . . If any further illustration is
zens, and then products were usef;l and valuable. Note needed than is furnished in these words already quoted,
this- explicitly. Some occupations there are which no one think of his address down there by the lonely seashore, when
can follow, and keep his Christian profession clean and clear. be bade farewell to the elders of Ephesus, Oh, how that
2. Then we must observe that Paul sought consistent scene rises on our minds! See the worn man as he stands
partners in his business. God guided him when he “found” there on the sands; every line on his face shows labor and
such amiable people as Aquila and Priscilla already estab- care : he is true and genuine, and can be trusted. Acts
lished there in the strange city. . . . . 20 : 32-35.
3. But most of all, in these degenerate times of ours, 2. But now let us lay alongside of this another considera-
we must notice that Paul pursued the work of his calling tion: Paul’s tent-work in the shop of Aquila added immeas-
honestly. . . . . As this small, tired man sat there, in the urable force to his ministry, because it removed all ground
midnight and the noon, sewing industriously till his feeble of cavil as to his making a gain out of godliness. There
eyes ached with the overstrain, talking meanwhile with Aquila was some reason for his peculiar solitude in this vain and
and his bright wife, we have not the slightest doubt that he fastidious city ; we know he did not refuse money bent him
always knotvted his .thread when he took- up his needle, that from other places. It is worth our while to ascertain ex-
he Dulled each stitch through conscientiously as in the actly what was Paul’s whole doctrine on this subiect. 1 Cor.
sight’ of God, and that he faitened the end 03 it when he 9:4-i4. We understand from a passage so este&ive and so
Anished the seam. For we do not see how those people could explicit as this that Paul never intended to prejudice the
have had family prayers, unless they knew they had been rights of others, or surrender his own. He instructed his
“doing successful business on Christian principles.” young friend Timothy to preach on this point. 1 Tim.
4. Once more: We must observe that Paul held his 5: 17, 18. But when indiscreet men caviled, Christians must
business cautiously in hand. No doubt his tents brought ex- avoid the very appearance of evil. So this cheerful-hearted
cellent prices, and it is likely the trade increased. But he preacher laid bold of his needle, pulled the silesia up over
looked on tent-making as a means to an end; and he did his knee, and went, on sewing tent-coverings Rve days in each
not set himself just to gain money. He never let his busi- week. He afterwards told them frankly that he used some
ness run away with him, or interfere with his religious life. of the Philippians’ gifts to him to help out. that season. 2
5. Hence, we are not surprised to discover that Paul used Cor. 11:7-12. And he seems rather proud and glad 21s he
his opportunities wisely even when hardest at work. We do tells them so.-Chas. S. Robinson.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Mechanicsville, Ill;., April 13, lY84. all my disciples who follow me, as parts of the first-born,
“DEAR BRO. RUSSELL:- . . . . The Auostle. in writing shall be passed over. delivered from death, in the resurrec-
about the Lord’s Supper, says: ‘Ye she; the Lord’s den& tion. Therefore, as oft as you eat this-commemorate the Pass-
till he come’ (1 Cor. 11:26). And the Lord said: ‘Do this in over-look beyond the type and realize in me the anti-type
remembrance of me, evidently meaning, Remember me in of the lamb. Do this in remembrance of me, and no longel
my a,bsence. To me the inference seems strong that the com- in remembrance of the typical lamb.
memoration should now cease, because the Lord is now prcs- 0. Are Enoch and Elijah dead or livinp*
entk,%ze;t think you ?” A. Of Enoch very littie is told us, es&t tbnt he \\nlked
. A careful reading of Paul’s words quoted above, with God (Gen. 5:24). and thnt, God rerenletl to him hO111~
with the context, fails to indicate to us any prohibition of things relative to the kingdom of God. will I)c VVII br lefer-
the observance after the Lord has come and is present. On ence- to ,Jutle 14. 15. CA. 5 .24 tells 11s that “hr ;\2is mt
the contrary, the Apostle’s argument here is, that when we Ifoundl. for God took him:” and Hrb. 11 :.i nroves that he
break the loaf, etc., we show our communion or participation did not die. How, or where, Goti took him: or for lrllil t
with Christ in death, as members of the one loaf, the one body. purpose. is not revealed. This srfw~ to be one of the *rrlrt
Hence it is quite proper that we should. So long as we are things which Moses says belong unto God. Deut. 29 :“I).
in the flesh, and so long therefore as the sufferings of the body Elijah. we are told, went III) l)y 11 11birlwiiid irl fo hca ,‘(‘)t.
of Christ are not ended, and the measure of his afflictions not The word here translated benven is shnnur!/inl. UI~‘U,IIJI~
dlled, it is both prope; for us to fill them up and share the “heaved up,” or “high things.” It is sometimes applied to
cup, and also to symbolize it. the firmnment or region of the air (C~II. 1 :S) , nnd sometixnes
Concerning our Lord’s words, “Do this in remembrance of to the throne of God. Wbeii the latter iq referred to. tlir
me,” we do ‘hot think he meant, Remember me during my term “heaven of heavens” is frequently used. ( 1 Kings S :2;. \
absence. He was uresent at the first supper, and if it be im- We must .’iudge I’.
of its meaning . . in this case bv its llnrnlon~
proper to remember his death except- &ring his absence, with other Srrlpturcs. Jesus, after his rcsull&tion. went t;,
it was equally improper to remember it before his absence. heaven, the throne of God; but John saps (chap. 3.13). *-So
What Jesus did mean we think was this: The Passover man hat11 ascended up to heaven but be tllnt cn111~~do\\ II
as a type and a part of the law shall surely have a fulfillment. from heaven. even the Son of hlnn.” Hence \i-e must ~tm-
The fulfilling of it is now commencing. I am the anti-type clutle that the atmospheric benvpns \\tlr(s the he.~ren~ illto
of the lamb that was slain and eaten. and every other feature which Elijah ascended..
must be fulfilled-the entire tvpe will be ful5lled when the It is no\\ here stntwl thnt l?liiah did not die: md th:tt he
kingdom of God shall have full; been established; when you, ascended into tbr nir until lo-t to sight does not provtx that
I6191
(8) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PlTTsBUkoH,
PA.

he did die. Neither does the vision on the mount of trana- day of the week as a substitute for the seventh. Is this true?
figuration prove that he is, or was then alive, since that was A. The claim of Romanists in this matter as in others,
only a v&on-as Jesus said, “See thou tell the vision to no, stands or falls with their other claim, that their Church was
man.” As Elijah was a type of the Church, his ascension established in the first century by the Apostles-Peter being
was also typical of the ascending bride, soon to meet her their first Pope. All this we deny, and claim that the Church
Lord in the air-not the literal air: air is symbolic of the whose “names are written in heaven,” was the original and
universal kingdom. Heretofore Satan has been the prince only Church established or recognized by the Apostles, and
of the poller of the air; now Christ has come to reign, and that is OUB CHUBCH. Romanism was an apostasy from OUR
Satan will shortly be dethroned. Soon the overcoming Church, CIIURCH,as are also all other sects. As to the observance of
being changed from human to spiritual conditions, will meet the first day by our Church in early days and the teachings
her Lord in the kingdom. of the Apostles on the subject (who are the STANDARDSof
What became of Elijah’s body we do not know, neither our Church,) see article “The Ten Commandments,” in the
do we know what became of the body of Moses. Things not October, 1883, issue. So, then, if the early Church was the
revealed belong to God. Church of Rome, they say truly; but if not, the claim that SHE
Q. A class of people called Sabbath or Seventh-day keepers, instituted the change from the Seventh to the First day, Sab-
claim that the Roman Catholic Church established the First bath, is false like many others she puts forth.

LIFE AT HOME
For all of US our life at home must constitute a great part during the greater part of the day find occasion in their
of that life in which, by patient continuance in well-doing, home-life for forms of well-doing and ill-doing that are not
we have to seek for glory, honor and immortality; for many possible elsewhere. I like a broad and rich life for myself-
of us it practically constitutes the whole. full of varied interests; and I should like to see the lives of
There are millions of women, millions of girls, to say most men, and of most women too, animated by the inspira-
nothing of little children, who have no life worth speaking of tion and refreshed by the free air of activities and interests
beyond the boundaries of the family. Whatever fidelity to outside their own home. But no shining achievements else-
God, whatever love for Christ, whatever justice, whatever where can palliate the guilt of coldness, injustice, ill-temper
kindness, generosity and gentleness they are to illustrate In in the family; and the noblest public virtues have roots in
their spirit and conduct must be illustrated there. And even the gentleness, the industry, of self-sacrifice and the truth-
men who have their business and their profession to follow fulness of which only those who are nearest to us know.

IMPORTANCE OF BEING ABLE TO DESPISE RIDICULE

I know of no principle which it is of more importance to able point of morals, do it, however rustic, however anti-
fix in the mind than that of the most determined resistance quated, however pedantic it may appear; do it, not tor in-
to the encroachments of ridicule. Give up to the world, and solence, but seriously and grandly, as a man who wore a soul
to the ridicule with which the world enforces its dominion, of his own in his bosom, and did not wait till it was breat,hed
every trifling question of manner and appearance? It is to into him by the breath of fashion. Let men call you mean,
toss courage and firmness to the winds to combat with the if you know you are just; hypocritical, if you are honestly
mass upon such subjects as these. But learn from the earli- religious; pusillanimous, if you feel you are firm ; resistance
est days to insure your principles against the perils of ridi- soon converts unprincipled wit into sincere respect; and no
cule; you can no more exercise your reason, if you live in the after-time can tear from you those feelings which every man
constant dread of laughter, than you can enjoy your life if carries with him who has made a noble and successful eser-
vou are in the constant terror of death. If you think it right tion in a virtuous cause.-Bible Banner.
to differ from the times, and to make a stand for any mlu-

WESLEY ON DRESS
If you could be as humble when you chose rich apparel ful to God and man; more abundantlv clad (like men and
(which I flatly deny) yet you could not be as benetlcent, as women professing godliness) ztith gobd works. I conjure
plenteous in good works. Therefore every shilling which ‘YOUall who have anv regard for me. before I ao hence, that
you needlessly spend on your apparel, is in effect stolen from I have not labored, e;Ten &r this respect, in vainyfor near half
the poor! For what end did you want these ornaments? TO a century.
please God 7 No!-but to please your own fancy or to gain Let me see, before I die, a Methodist congregation fully
the admiration and applause of those who were no wiser than as plainly dressed as a Quaker congregation; only be more
yourself. If so, what you wear you are in effect tearing consistent with yourselves. Let your dress be cheap as \\ell
from the back of the naked: and the costly and delicate food as plain. Otherwise you do but trifle with God and me, and
vou eat, you are snatching. from the mouth of the hungry. Your Own Souls. I pray let there be no costlv silks amona
For mercy. for nitv. for Christ’s sake, for the honor of HIS pou, how grave soe;er “they may he. Let not any of you
Gospel, stay your “hand! Do not throw this money away. who are rich in this world endeavor to excuse Y vourself from
Do not lay out on nothing, yea, worse than nothing, what this by talking nonsense.
mav clothe your poor, naked, shivering fellow-creatures. It is stark, staring nonsense to say, “Oh, I can afford this
Many years ago, when I was at Oxford, on a cold winter’s or that!” If you have regard to common sense, let that silly
day, a young maid (one of those we keep at school), called word never come into your mouth. No man living can offord
upon me. I said, “You seem half-starved. Have you noth- to throw away anv part of that food or raiment into the
ing to cover vou but that thin gown ?” She said, “Sir, this sea, which was‘lodgkd*with him on purpose to feed the hungry
is all I have.“’ I put my hand in my pocket, but found no and clothe the naked. And it is far worse than simple
money left, having just paid away what I had. It struck me, waste to spend any part of it in gay or costly apparel.
“Will thy Master say, ‘Well done good and faithful steward. For this is no less than to turn wholesome food mto
Thou ha’st adorned thv walls with the money which might deadlv poison. It is giving so much money to noison both
have ~rccnrd this poor creature from the cold.’ 0 justice! you&elf and others a’; far as your example spreads, with
0 mercy f Are not these pictures the blood of the poor mind? pride, vanity, anger, lust, love of the world, and a thousand
See thine espensive apparel
__ in the same light; thy gown, hat, “foolish and hurtful desires” which tend to “pierce them
head-dress!“’ through with many sorrows.” 0 God, arise and mainta.in
Everything about thee which costs more than Christian thy own cause ! Let not men and devils any longer put out
dutv required thee to lay out, is the blood of the poor! O! our eyes and lead us blindfold into the pit of destruction.-
be <vise for the time to come. Be more merciful; more faith- Sermon by John Wesley.

“A little while. earth’s fightings will be over; A little while, the love that once redeemed them
A little while, her tears be wiped away; Shall change their weeping into grateful song.
4 little while, the power of Jehovah “A little while! ‘Tis ever drawing nearer-
Shall turn this darkness to Millennial Day. The brighter dawning of that glorious day.
“A little while, the ills that now o’erwhelm men Praise God, the light is hourly growing clearer,
Shall to the memories of the past belong; Shining more and more unto the Perfect Day.”
VOL. v PITTSBURGH, PA., JUNE, 1884 No. 10

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

“IT SHALL SURELY OOME AND NOT TARRY”
“I will stand upon my watch, and fix my foot upon the excess of their wealth dishonestlv. i. e.. without ”giving ” an
Tower: and I will watch, to see what will be said to me, equivalent service to the world for ‘it. .
and what I may answer to him [the unbeliever] that re- This verdict of the people is expressed by the prophet also,
proveth me. And the Lord answered me [or gave me an an- (vs. 6, 7,) “Shall not all these take up a parable against him
swer for such] saying: Write the vision and- make it plain and a dark speech concerning him? And it shall be said,
upon tables that he that readeth it may run over it [be able Woe to him that heaneth toeether that which is not his own.
to‘ prove to himself its correctness.] l!or, as yet, the vision How long also dot11 he load” himself with thick clay? Shall
is for an appointed time, and it shall appear at the end, and they not rise up suddenly that shall bite thee; and they be
shall not lie. If it [appear to] make any delay wait for it: stirred up that shall tear thee, and thou shalt be a spoil unto
for it shall surely come, and it shall not tarry.” Habakuk, them ?”
2 : 1-3.-Douay Trunslation. This calls to mind a New Testament prophecy which cor-
This command has been obeyed. By various means-Charts, responds to the above: “Go to, now ye rich men, weep and
Diagrams, Concordances and explanations the vision or revela- howl for your miseries which shall come upon you. Ye have
tion of God’s word has been nlaced within the reach of the heaped treasure together for the last days: Behold the hire
people; yet they are slow to bilieve that this Gospel age will of the laborers who have reaned down vour fields. which is of
eve; pa& away and give place to another; and ihey iay, as you kept back by fraud crieih: and the cries of’ them which
was foretold, “Where is the promise of His coming (presence) have reaped have entered into the ears of the Lord of armies.
for since the fathers fell asleep all things continue as they Be patient, therefore, brethren, unto the coming of
were from the beginning.” (2 Pet. 3:4.) This indicates that the’ Lord.” (James 5:1-8.)
the class who when the end comes are in darkness concerning This trouble upon the rich, it is expressly stated, will be
it, are unbelievers of God’s testimony. This is also further among the events of the last days of this age; and not only
stated by this same prophet (verse 3) “Behold, he that is un- so, but the apostle refers to it as taking place in the Day of
believing, his soul [understanding or mind] shall not be right the Lord-when he has come. And these circumstances now
in himself ; [It will be because he is not right at heart,] but transpiring corroborate exactly the testimony of the Scrip-
the just shall live in his faith [not slow to believe that all that ture-the vision “written and made plain upon tables,” that
God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets.] we are now living (since 1875) in the beginning of the Day
When we and others called attention in 1876 and 1877 to of the Lord.
the presence of the Lord, and showed that it was taught by All that is written of this day will not transpire at once,
the revelations of God’s word. we found few readv to believe but each convulsive spasm will prepare for another until
our report, and many said, ‘“Where is the promise of His the climax is reached. The scriptural evidences of the Lord’s
presence 1” The only- answer we could then give them was, presence were clear to some of us before these outward evi-
that thev should examine the Scrintural evidences offered. dences commenced, and these only corroborate previous con-
But soon’ outward evidences appeared which corroborate the victions, but as the Day of the Lord advances others who
Scriptures! the railroad riots of 1878 came, and Socialism in could not see it from the Scriptures will learn it from the
Germany, Nihilism in Russia, and Communism in France, transpiring events, until all-the rich men and the mighty
began to put on a bold front, and it became evident that the men, and the poor men, the bondmen, and the free men, all
governments of the whole civilized world are resting on the shall realize that “the great day of His wrath is come” and
very edge of a smoking volcano, which at any moment might shall seek the protection of the great mountains (govern-
burst forth and destroy them. ments) and rocks (societies) to shield them from its trou-
In their haste some supposed that all things concerning ble. (Rev. 6:15-17; Luke 23:30.)
this day of the Lord, were to transpire immediately. But n< It is asked why the presence of the Prince of Peace should
the apostle shows that its trouble will come like spasms, like cause so much trouble? We answer that he is not only a
great waves following each other, each bringing nearer the peaceful governor, but a King of righteousness and there can
erand climax stated bv the nronhet: “I will overthrow the be no true and lasting peace or happiness aside from princi-
Throne of kingdoms and I w$ll bestroy the strength of the ples of justice. In the establishment of his kingdom it is
kingdom of the nations.” (Hag. 2:22.) necessary to overthrow present kingdoms, because they are
These increasing spasms of trouble are referred to by the upheld by injustice and tyranny. For the same reason titles,
apostle under a striking illustration, when he says, it comes and honors of birth based upon fraud and injustice of the past
“As travail upon a woman.” ( 1 Thes. 5:3, Psa. 48:0.) Indeed ages, no less than the wealth and honor grasped dishonestly
the troubles of the day of the Lord are but the labor pains of in our own day, must all fall under the condemnation of the
the old, as the new dispensation is ushered into existence. new King, who declares that the humble and lowly shall be
exalted, and the proud and arrogant debased, During his
Just when men had almost forgotten the trouble of 1878 reign, “the meek shall inherit the earth.”
and Socialism, comes another pang-a semi-panic-but not as The present financial trouble among the rich is probably
previous panics have been, severest on the poor, but the very not yet ended, their weenine: and howlinz will urobablv be vet
opposite, severest on the rich; millionaires are suffering now. A ., .I I
greater, and it is not confined to this land alone, br;t seems
--The prophet proceeds to describe this feature of the day to affect all the money centres of the world. Presentlv it will
of trouble, saving: “As wine deceiveth him that drinketh it. cease, to be succeeded by a still more severe trouble after
so shall the proid man be [deceived], and he shall not be another interva1 of rest,.
honored who enlargeth his desire as the grave and is Z&e Nor should we forget that the present prince, our Lord, ig
DEATH, which cannot be satisfied though he [death] gather no more favorable to religious monopolies and boastful titles,
unto him all the nations and assemble unto him all the peo- etc., than to financial and political ones, and these shall no
de.” ( Ver. 5.) more than others, escape destruction. The same proud and
A What a photograph of today! Once to be extremely haughty spirit which leads the world to grasp titles and honor
wealthy was to be “honored,” but we have reached the time and to increase its wealth, has been and is leading the various
mentioned by the prophet when such as have no limit to their sects of the nominal church; and the result to both is the
greed for gain, but like the grave would endeavor to swallow same-“Pride goeth before destruction and a haughty spirit
all yet never be satisfied “shall not be honored,” but rather before a fall.” Let us not be deceived; it is the same spirit
the reverse. which boastfully says, ‘Our denomination is building at the
As knowledge increases throughout the world among the rate of one church a day and hopes soon to double this,’ which
masses, they are coming not only to question the rights of during the past month introduced into a conference for the
kings, and to inquire how and why one man is supposed to election of Bishops, the trickery and wire-pulling of a political
be born with the right to command and rule another: his convention, in the endeavor of the various candidates to be
equal or superior in ability. but they are inquiring also, &How greatest while making a show of in honor preferring one
comes it that these millionaires roll in wealth which thev another.
not only cannot spend, but cannot even know how to stow Yes all these fraudulent earthly systems, each claiming to
away, while so many others, their intellectual, moral and be the true church, shall lose the honor and prestige they so
physical equals, barely have life’s necessities?” Since money much covet. Their falsities and shams shnll be disclosed in
stands as the equivalent of service, and since the possessors this day that shall try every man’s work of what sort it i$
of vast wealth have never rendered the world extraordinary lt will be :I blessed deliverance from :I man-impoac~d voke. to
service, the logical conclusion is that they accumulated the many of God’s dear children who are now in these sects and
[6211 (1)
(2) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBUl,GH, PA.

who are influenced and bound by their theories and customs, the path by which it shall be gained is steep and thorny. The
mistaking the nominal churches of earth for the true church overturning of present gigantic systems and monopolies, re-
whose names are written in heaven, and whose law is the ligious, financial, and political, by the new King in this His
word of God and not of men. day, causes “a time of trouble such as was not since there
Yes this liberty, religious, financial, and political, is what was a nation” ; “no, nor ever shall be.” (Dan. 12 : 1; Matt.
mankind needs and longs for. It is a precious boon, but 24:21.)

“Now the world is full of suffering, “We are waiting, hoping, praying,
Sounds of woe fall on our ears, For Messiah’s glorious reign,
Sights of wretchedness and sorrow, For we know He’ll reign in justice,
Fill our eyes with pitying tears. Right and truth shall triumph then.

“ ‘Tis the earth’s dark night of weeping, “Worldly pleasures cannot win us
Wrong and evil triumph now; While we wait for that bright day:
We can wait, for just before us Worldly splendor cannot charm us,
Beams the morning’s roseate glow. While its light beams on our way.”

HABAKKUK’S PROPHECY
Our running comments below are in brackets, and the for judgment; and, 0 Protector, THOU hast, appointed them to
translation is one gleaned from several authorities. COIUkECJ! NATIONS." [This is the confidence of the saints, as
Chap. 1: 2-4. “How long, 0 Lord, have I entreated, and here expressed by the prophet.]
thou wouldst not hear? How long shall I cry out unto thee In the third chapter of this same prophecy the standpoint
because of violence, and thou wilt not save? Why hast thou is changed, and the prophet rehearses the trouble coming upon
shown me iniquity or grievance, and the robbery and violence the world during the day of the Lord, from the Lord’s stand-
that are before me? And there is a judgment, but oppression point, showing whose power it is that shall really shake the
is more powerful. Therefore the law is powerless and jus- kingdoms and brine in everlasting ”
righteousness.
<I
Primarilv I
tice cometh not forth victorious; for the wicked compasseth refGence is made %o the marvelous display of God’s power
about the righteous: therefore doth justice come forth per- on behalf of Israel in their deliverance from Egypt, but we
verted. must not forget that Israel’s deliverance from the darkness
[Certainly these words can well be applied to this “pres- and bondage Gf Egypt into fruitful Canaan, was but an illus-
ent evil world,” when God seems to many to be indifferent as tration of the world’s deliverance. to be accomnlished I in the
to whether good or evil succeeds, and permits evil to tri- establishment of earth’s new kingdom.
umph, the godly to suffer persecution, and the wicked to Chap. 3:2. “0 Lord! I hav< heard thy fame and was
flourish. In view of this, the prophet asks as the represen- afraid: 0 Lord! thv work-in the midst of the vears of sor-
tative of all who love righteousness, “How long, 0 Lord,” row [or time of trouble] revive thou it; in the *midst of the
shall it be thus? When shall the present evil world give place years make it known: in wrath remember mercy.
to that wherein dwelleth righteousness?] “God came from Teman, the Holy One from mount Paran.
rThe Lord answers the crv, declaring] : “Look ye about Selah. His glory covered the heavens, and of his praise the
among the nations, and behold and be- astonished- and as- earth was full. His kingdom was like the sunlight; rays
tounded, for I will fulfill a work in your days ye would not streamed forth out of his hand unto them. and there was
believe if it were only told you. [If you did not see some the hiding [or secret] of his power. [In truth, when realized
evidences you would consider the things impossibilities.] For properly, the Lord’s coming and kingdom are blessings; for
lo, I will raise up the Chaldeans, that bitter and hasty na- as the Sun of Righteousness he brings light and blessing and
tion [people], which shall march through the breadth of the joy; when properly seen his every act (hands in symbol)
land to possess the dwelling places that are not theirs (vs. sheds light and blessing. This is for a time kept secret and
6, 6). [The people who are to do the astounding work among not recognized by men, though it is the object of his taking
the nations are here called Chaldeans, and represent, we be- his great power.] Pestilence shall go before his face [moral
lieve, the masses of the peoples of earth, who, under the nestilence shall flee. as darkness does when the sun risen1 and
names Communists, Nihilists, Socialists, etc., are organizing burning coals went’forth at his steps [dross and stubble shall
with avowed intention of overturning present governments. be consumed as righteousness steps in.]
Chaldeans is a fitting name. Literal Babylon was the capital “He stood and measured 1judged] the earth; He looked
city of literal Chaldea, a vast country, so symbolical Babylon and melted the nations and the ancient mountains [govern-
reiens over the people of the civilized world, who, therefore, ments] were crushed to pieces; there sunk the perpetual hills:
might in symbol-be-fitly termed the Chaldeans.] his ways are everlasting. I saw the tents of *C&han [dwell-
“Thev are dreadful and terrible, and from them shall pro- inf;io;f darkness or blackness, symbolizing iniquity] in af-
ceed the’ iudament upon these [evils and nations] and their : they trembled-the curtains [those who caused ob-
burden [ o”r ristraint j. scurity or darkness] in the land of Midian [strife].
“Swifter than leonards are their horses, and fiercer than “Thy bow was made quite bare; like severe rods of pun-
the evening wolves; their horsemen spread themselves abroad, ishment goeth forth thy sword. Selah: thou didst cleave
for their horsemen shall come from afar; they shall fly as the [open] the rivers [truth-channels] of the earth” . . . “In
eagle that hasteth to eat. They will all come for violence. indignation thou wilt tread the earth under foot in thy wrath
[Horses represent doctrines in symbol, and horsemen teachers thou wilt astonish the nations. Thou wentest forth for the
of those doctrines. The ferocity of the doctrines is here shown. salvation of thy people; for salvation with thy Christ. Thou
and the rapidity with which they will spread and the fact struckest the head of the house of the wicked [Satan] and
that the teachers of these doctrines will be foreigners.] destroyed the foundation with the high towering walls. [It
“Their faces will be set in opposition to the east. [The is a complete overthrow.] Thou didst strike through with his
east is the direction of the sunrising, and here represents the own spears the chief of his warriors--them that came out as
dawn of the Millennial Day. Hence, the language here indi- a whirlwind to scatter me . . . . But thou didst pass alorp
cates that though these shall cause a measure of judgment to over the sea with thy horses, over the piled up billows of
come upon evil institutions, yet they will not be in harmony great waters. [The Lord’s doctrines were enforced and cm-
with the true light, but in opposition to it; their mission is quered the great multitude--the “raging waves of the sea.“]
violence.] And they gather the bounden ones as the sand. “I have heard and my inmost parts tremble, at the report
“And they will make sport with kings and princes will be my lips tremble . . . I trembled in myself that I might
a play unto them: at every stronghold they will laugh, and REST in the day of trouble.”
they will cast up earth mounds and capture it. Then [by In this “Day of the Lord” those only can BEST who are
reason of their success] doth their spirit become arrogant and built upon the rock foundation, who are strenethened bv the
they are surpassingly proud, and offend, imputing this their heavenly manna, continually refreshed by the &ing wat’er of
power unto their god. [Not realizing that they have been truth, and in obedience to their covenant are following in
used as the Lord’s great army to overthrow oppression and the footsteps of Jesus. Such shall know the truth and the
to bring down the proud and to thresh the mountains (king- truth shall make them free. Such shall walk in the light
doms), they shall boast themselves of the victory of Liberal- and not be in darkness that that day should come upon them-as
ism.] a thief and a snare. (I Thea. 6:1-6.) Such mav rest in the
“Art thou not from everlasting, 0 Lord, my God, my Holy remembrance that the trouble brings ‘the chariots” of salvation
One? We shall not die. 0 Lord, thou hast OBDAINED THEN for the deliverance of the just.
16221
 THE SECRET OF THE SAINTS
To play through life a perfect part, To hear of high, heroic things,
Unnoticed and unknown ; And yield them reverence due,
To seek np rest in any heart But feel life’s daily offerings
Save only God’s alone; Are far more fit for you.
In little things to own no will, To woo no secret soft disguise
To have no share in great, To which self-love is prone,
To find the labor ready still, Unnoticed by all other eyes,
And for the crown to wait. Unworthy in your own;
Upon the brow to bear no trace To yield with such a happy art,
Of more than common care, That no one thinks you care,
To write no secret in the face And say to your poor bleeding heart,
For men to read it there. “How little you can bear !”
The daily cross to clasp and bless, Oh, ‘tis a pathway hard to choose,
With such familiar zeal, A struggle hard to share,
As hides from all that not the less For human pride would still refuse
The daily weight you feel. The nameless trials there;

In toils that praise will never pay, But since we know the gate is low
To see your life go past, That leads to heavenly bliss,
To meet in every coming day What higher life could God bestow
Twin sister of the last; Than such a life as this?
--Selected.
THE DOCTRINE OF ELECTION
It is well known that for years past I have opposed the cases, though all others were reprobations in the sense these
popular, or Calvinistic view, of election. That view is es- were elected.
sentially this : “God did, from all eternity, unconditionally THE OREATOR’S EIGHT TO ELECT
elect a certain number of persons to be saved, and these The sovereign right of the Creator to elect whom he will
cannot be lost; and at the same time, did pass by all the rest to certain offices, or to perform a particular work, is undeni-
of the human family and left them to eternal damnation”; i. e., able. To deny this would be to deny that he is God, the
He reprobated them to eternal torments, or death, leaving MAKER of all things; and to such the language of Paul is ap-
them in a helpless and hopeless condition. plicable-“Nay, but, 0 man, who art thou that repliest against
Such an idea of election I have opposed for fifty years past, God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why
and shall probably oppose it to the end of life, as unhar- hast thou made me thus?” (Rom. 9:20). Without variety in
monious with the character of God and his professions of “love the human family, what would society be, even in this life? If
to the world,” and the fact that Christ “tasted death for all are rulers, who would be the subjects? If all were sub-
every man,” and ‘gave himself a ransom for all,” and that jects, who would be the rulers? It is evident to all that some
“God will have all men to be saved [to live] and come to the men by nature are endowed with five talents, some with two,
knowledge of the truth” ( 1 Tim. ii. 4-6; Heb. ii. 9). and some with only one; and each was thus endowed, not by
With this statement before my readers, I trust they will his own choice or will, but by the will of the Creator. Each
not mistake nor misconstrue what I am about to say on elec- was elected, before he was born, to this capacity found in
tion. That there is a Scripture doctrine of election it is use- him by nature; improvement may increase this capacity in
less to deny; and that it is a “Sovereign” one must also be them all; but I speak now only of the election which gives
admitted. God, of his own sovereign pleasure, elected the first them their place, at first, in the race-all ordered in infinite
Adam before he was created to be the head and representa- wisdom for the highest good, improvement and happiness of
tive of the human race in its animal nature. The same Sov- the whole race.
ereign will elected, “before the foundation of the world” (Eph. Men claim the right to elect their own rulers; and the
i. 4)) the second Adam-the Christ-to be the head and rep- act of doing it is called “Election’‘-that is, certain persons
resentative of a spiritual race, to be developed in due time. are elected to fill particular offices, not for their own benefit
SCRIPTURAL ELECTION or aggrandizement, but for the good of the whole community.
From the offices thus filled all others for the time being, are
reprobated or rejected; but the reprobation is a harmless one;
the election was designed to benefit all the reprobated; to
watch over their interests and see that all were protected in
their lawful pursuits, and to punish the disturbers of the
peace. The elect rulers are armed with authority to enforce
law and order, and under such a well-ordered administration
the greatest amount of good will be possessed by all well dis-
posed, both of rulers and the ruled. In this view election is
stripped of its hateful aspects.
A OALM LOOK AT THE SUBJECT
Let us now see if we can look calmly on the Scripture doc-
trine of election. In the first place, suppose it is an election
of individuals, though that view may be modified as the in-
vestigation proceeds. For what are they elected, or to what?
Is it to be saved, while all others are to be damned? Pre-
posterous assumption ! as unfounded in the Word of God as
l Some of onr readers will recognize the writer of the above as a it is blasphemous. They are “chosen in Christ” and for Christ,
former soldier of the cross who laid aside the earthly armor some years to aid him in his work of blessing the race of Adam, for
since. The above, from the pen of our esteemed fellow-laborer, was whom Christ “tasted death”; that is, “every man”-
written probably ten years ago, and before we had come to see that the
election of the church, now in progress, is to a change of nature, from “every crea ture”-the “all” for whom Christ “gave himself
human to spiritual: hence, in the fourth paragraph, the writer speaks of a ransom,” which will “be testified in due time” (Mark 16: 15 ;
Christ selecting a spiritual element in man, instead of saying, as we now 1 Tim. 2:6; Heb. 2:D). The elect are to become the “Bride
would, that the Second Adam becomes the head of o new or spiritual
race, and the restorer of the human race. of the LAMB”-his “joint heirs”-to reign with him (Rev. 19:
In the sixth paragraph also, under the light of further unfoldings of 7, 8; Rom. 8:1’7; 2 Tim. 2:12) : and will sit with Christ on his
the same truth, we, instead of saying each was endowed with many or throne in the regeneration (Rev. 3 :21) . Shall He not have
few talents “by the will of the creator-each elected before birth to the
capacity found in him by nature,” we would say: Originally, the race
the right to select his own Bride? May not He and His
in its perfect representative, Adam, was fully and perfectly endowed Father elect whom they will for the Bride of Christ? How
with a full range of talent; but, by reason of sin, and the degradation can that be doubted? Her office is not to exalt herself. nor
and imperfection consequent to the fall, the original
talents has been more or less interfered
range and scope of
with and destroyed.
for herself. It is to exalt the Bridegroom and be worker8
It affords us great satisfaction to recall how clearly our Brother together with him in blessing the race and carrying out God’s
Storrs, in the ahove and other writings. presented the conditions which great purpose of hlcasing “the world”-the huumn family
we were elected to fulfill if we would be ioint-heirs
that we must suffer with Him if we would be also glorified together.-
of Christ’s glory- Viewed in thin light, what Christian’s heart csn object
EDITOR. to the doctrine of election? No one is harmed by it; no one
(3) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTISUPCR, PA.

is excluded from salvation or eternal life by it; but their race for the oficeo of “kings and priests” unto God and the
ultimate possession of those blessings is more likely to be Lamb, and yet may “come short of” a confirmation or inau-
securrtl br it. There is greater hope for those who are not guration into those offices by failing to obtain that matuiity
of this eiect Bride than there would have been but for her and perfectness which Gods calls them to, and bv non-im-
beinn thus elected and Drenared to bless t.he others of the provement of the grace bestowed on them; hence, the apostle
human race. This elect’lon- need not and should not cause exhorts on this wise, “We then, as workers together with him,
any jealousy in the minds of the non-elect; for, first, it is beseech ou also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.”
for tile benefit of the non-elect that this election has been The B criptures are full of cautions against carelessness in
made ; and, second, these elected ones have, in this life, to the use of God’s grace, and against quenching the Spirit, and
“drink of Christ’s cup. and be baptized with his baptism” of admonitions not to grieve the Holy Spirit of God, all of which
sufferings, sorrows aid rrploach, be despised, reviled have go to show that there is a danger, at least a possibility, of
their names cast out as evil. their motives misconstrued, en’ failing to “make our calling and election sure.” Too many
dure persecution in some form; many of them even unto persons, while writing or speaking of election, fail to make
death. having “had trial of cruel mockings and scourglngs, the distinction between being elected to rmm a race, and being
rca. moreoyrr, of bondq and imprisonment; they were stoned, elected to receive the o&e. All who believe in Jesus have
;awn asllnder, \\rre tempted. were slain with the sword: they been elected (from the ioundation of the world, if YOU please.)
wnndert=d about in shrep-skins and goat,-skins, being destitute, to run in the race for the kingly and priestly o-&c& of the
afflicted. harassed. mnltreated, (of whom the world was not Kingdom of God: but none have been absolutelv elected to the
wortlip) : thev wantlrred in deserts and in mountains, and in possession of thdse offices; this last election i’; suspended on
tlrns and ca;.eq of the earth” (Heb. 11:36-38). Such in conditions to be performed; hence, says the apostle, “so run
POISE Gort or some measure, is the lot of the elect Church of that ye may obtain” ( 1 Cor. 9 :24) ; obtain what? “An in-
ChriGt. uho. ha\inp been made partakers of his sufferings, corruptible crown.” This belongs “to him that overcometh.”
will he l Ilarcr~ in his glory. having been fitted therefor by be- GOD’S DESIGN B$ AN BLEUTION
~IIX prrfrc%etI hr sllfferings like their Elect Head, Christ Jesus. This virw of election, while it acknowledges the sovereign-
TIIVV tin not n;ltl cannot live as other men do in this present ty of God and his right to bestow his gifts according to his
Ilfe.’ Thev arc ralld ant from the world, and live not for will, shows that all is done with the design to benefit the
this world, bnt live above it, looking for a “kingdom pre- race of men, as a whole; so that while soGe are exalted to
pared for them from the foundation of the world” (Matt. 25: rule and teach, the others are blessed under and by their rule
34). Christ is not onlv their Redeemer, but their great Ex- and instruction, thus uniting the whole family of man in a
emplnr : to be Christ-like is the grand ruling motive; and perfect harmony, diffusing perfect happiness and joy: “every
this makes them srparate from all other men in this life. man,” ultimately, sitting “under his own vine and figtree,”
They have taken Christ’s yoke upon them, and are now learn- having none to molest or make them afraid. “for the mouth
ing of him who was “meek and lowly in heart.” of the Lord of hosts hath spoken it” (Micah. 4:4).
These remarks lpad to another branch of t,he subject. That Such an election as here set forth, is a most powerful
the elect I have spoken of arc a definite number, which can stimulus to holy living, deadness to the world, self-denial.
neither be increasrd nor diminished. is highly probable. But I patience in tril&ation; watchfulness, constant ’reliance on
God for heir, and sunnort in all the conflicts to which we are
shall not argue that point at this time, another question exposed in ihis life:&’ in short, it leads to that spirit of con-
of more importance-that is-
secration to God and the Lamb which few professed Chris-
IS THE ELEOTION ABSOLUTE AS TO PERSONS? tians seem to have an idea of in these days, for most of
Or. Is in UVL Unconrlitionnl El’lcction of certain. individuals to them appear to be tolerably satisfied to be saved from hell
fill tlrc position of l?ridc to fhe Lamb? That the offer of this or death; and a deep communion with the Father, and with
honor is confined to a portion only of the human family is a his Son, Jesus Christ, seems of no great importance to them
self-evident truth; for only a few of the race have ever heard if they can only be saved. Naved they may be; but never gain
the proclamation of the grace of God in Christ. It seems to a part in the company composing the Bride of Christ: they
follow that only those to whom the good news has been have not made that “calling and election sure,” and hence, fail
prrached are cnndidutcs for this high and holy calling. That of being kings and priests unto God and the Lamb; though
this election is not absolute, i. e., irrevocable, seems clear saved with an inferior salvation through the abounding love
both from the Old and New Testaments. Peter calls upon be- of God, they may be subjects but not rulers in the Kingdom
lievrrs to malcr their “calling and election sure” (2 Pet. 1:lO). of God; they are not heirs of the Kingdom but they may share
Paul tells us. “I keep under my body and bring it into sub- in the blessings which flow from the reign of Christ and his
jection, lest that hg any means, when I have preached to Bride in the Kingdom, when that age is established over all
others. I myself should be a castaway” (1 Cor. 9:27) : and the earth. How great their gain or loss will be by their
seain he savs. “I have suffered the loss of all things . . . neglect to make “sure” their election, is a matter at present
that I may <vin Christ. . . . that I may know him and the impossible to tell. Let each believer in Jesus see and feel
power of his resurrrction if by any means I might that he or she is called, yet, elected to something more than
attain unto the resurrection ‘( e&&stasin j o;t from the dead.” to be saved; they are chosen to put olt Christ; i. e., to become
or out from antong the dead” (Phil. 3:ll) ; which language Christ-like, so as to be of his Bride, and occupy the place of
shows that Paul did not consider his election to that honor kings and priests to God and the Lamb. Not to live for this
ahsolute: hence. his laborings to “make sure” that result. end and ofice; to be satisfied with the idea of merely being
Thnq it annears that election. thounh it mav be of indi- saved somehow. is to undervalue their high calling and lightly
viduals. is 11% absolute; it may’ be fo>feited bi “transgres- esteem the exalted honor of being joint-heirs to Christ’s throne
sion ” Pan1 is clear on this point when he says: “It is im- and possessing the intimate relation of Bride of the Lamb. It
pocsiblp for those who were once enlightened. and have is too much like despising the birth-right, like Esau; or selling
tact& of the heavenlv gift, and were made mwtnkers of it for a mess of pottage. What are all the charms of this pres-
the Holy Ghost. and “ha\*e ‘tasted the good w&d of God, ent age-its honors, its luxuries, its wealth and grandeur-
and the pnwrrq of the wnrld to come, if they shall fall away, compared with the eternal honor and pleasure of being of the
to rcnrw them again to repentance, seeing they crucify to number that “follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth” (Rev.
thrrnsel\(aL 111~ Son of God afresh and put him to an open 14:4), and associated with him in all the wondrous works and
ChanlP” (Hcl,. c, l-6). Again Paul says. “If we sin wilfully glories of the “ages to come?”
after w’c ha\~ rcc.civcd the knowledge of the truth there re- Let all believers in Jesus “strive to enter in at the strait
maindh no more sacrifire for sins, but a certain fearful look- gate,” and walk in “the narrow way,,’ if they would make
ing for of jndpmcnt and fiery indignation which shall de- “sure” their “calling and election,,’ and not rest in the bare
vour the adversaries” (Hrh 10:2R, 27). Surh testimonies idea of being saved. The prize is before us: let us “so run
pn to shon that indiridlwlc rn~p he elected to run in the that we may obtain” it.--0leo. Ntorrs.

SONS OF GOD AND DAUGHTERS OF MEN

IThi= article was reprinted under title “Angels Which Kept Not Their First Estate” published in issue of July 15, 1894, which
please see.]

“If-hat poor despised company “Ah, these are of a royal line.

Of travelers are these. All children of a king,
Khn walk in wmder narrow way. Heirs of immortal crowns divine.
-4Inne the rugged maze?” And lo, for joy they sing!”
c6241
 ECYPTOLOGY AND THE BIBLE
There is no point, says the &%‘unday &kooZ Times, where In view of the recent remarkable discoveries there, a Cairo
the Bible record and the claim of infidel scientists-not sincere correspondent of the Nation. has referred to “the growing con-
and reverent, but skeptical and sc0ffin.g scientists-are at viction of Egyptologists [not of Bible defenders, but of Egyp-
greater variance, than as to man’s beginning in knowledge and tologists, mark you!] that the earliest Egyptian cirllization
character. The Bible says that man started on a high plane. we know of is the highest and that all that we know of it
and gradually declined through sin and neglect of his privi- is its decadence.” why, the book of Genesis tells us that !
leges; the scoffing student of science says that man started on “The oldest pyramid is the largest and best built; the oldest
a level with the brute, and has been gradually making progress temple-that besides the Sphins of Gizeh-shows masonrp since
from that beginning until now. Whenever a rude stone hatchet unapproached; the oldest papyrus-though as yet hardly un-
or a bit of primitive pottery. has been found in some subter- derstood-is the wisest; and the tombs and temples of the
ranean cavern, it has been claimed by the doubter of the Bible Theban period are filled with extracts from ancient books not
as a new witness against Genesis. But the believer in the Bible yet found complete.” That’s it! All that is necessary to bring
has rested on the Bible story, the Word of God. a scientist to the defence of the Bible story is-science.

WHAT ARE “CHRISTIAN NATIONS?”

“Anything to make money,” seems to be the motto of the race. It is the civilization of rum and gunpowder, not of
nations. Christian countries have no hesitation in doing things Christianity.
that must, if continued, inevitably utterly wipe out of exist- In the month of August. 1879, Messrs. Dunville and Co..
ence the abori.ginal inhabitants of the sea islands if they can distillers, of Belfast, shiiped’about’a thousand cases of whisky:
only make a little money thereby. “Take,,, says the Zndepend- cia Larne and Liveruool. to Cvmus. This island has iust
e?Lt, “the case of Madagascar. where rum merchants, aided bv escaped from Moham&eddn mis&e, impoverished and al&t
the’ English and Amer‘ican Governments, are tryink to undb depopulated; and now Irish whisky, sent by “Christian dis-
the work of nur mi,qionaries. Both the English and American tillers,” comes to the front, to complete the desolation.
Government levy a tax of some two dolla& a gallon on dis- Yet with these facts in view, with India, where English
tilled liquors: but the English Government forced on Mada- example has made a thousand diunkards where it has &ade
gascar a treaty which made that people receive rum at an one Christian. with China. where each dav more than a thou-
import of only thirty-three per cent, which was in 1867, re- sand natives hie the most horrid deaths, “murdered by British
duced to ten per cent., or about two cents a gallon. There are opium forced on them at the cannon’s mouth; with the South
imported annually from Mauritius over 400,000 gallons of rum. Sea island races rotting out from immoral diseases, which the
which sells at about ei,ghteen cents a gallon, and which, with sailors of Christendom have left behind;-the only exceptions
native liquors made from stills imported from Mauritius, is being islands that have no harbors where ships can lie:-with
inflicting an injury which the missionaries find hard to resist.” the liquor traffic driving the plouehshare of destruction not
A correspondent of a Mauritius paper, says the Uommercial only t&rough Christendom. but tbyough the virgin soil just
Gazette, saps that “the whole population have become inveter- onened in Asia and Africa for the receDtion of the eood seed
ate drunkards. women and children as well as men;” that the of the kingdom *,-with all these horrible’ exhibitions di Satanic
women are becoming sterile throughout the country; and “if craft, backed up by the force of evil habit and the covetous
something is not, done to stop this unlimited consumption of greed of gs.in which rules the so-called Christian world:-with
spirits, the bulk of the race will have disappeared from the all these facts before them. dainty divines, dealing in a gospel
face of the earth before the beginning of the next century, and of lavender and rose water, draw plowing pictures of a good
t,hose who remain will have just cause to curse the day upon time coming, and tell us that the world’s conversion is just at
which the white man invaded their country, under the brefext hand! Do such men know much about the world. or much
of showinrr them the wav to Heaven.” In a little while we about conversion ? Or are they saying peace and safety when
shall be hearing that “6vilization” has destroyed the Hova sudden destruction cometh upon them ?---The Chri.stian.

LIFE AND DEATH

Under this head we find the following lines in a paper Verse 32-“I have no pleasure in the death of him that
rlniming the name of “Christian”*- dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves. and
“Life and death are sisters fair; live ye.,’
Yes, thev are a lovelv nair. Hos. 13:14--” I will ransom them from the power of the
Life is &ng in joyohS song; grave; I will redeem them from death. 0 death. I will be thy
While men do hkr sister wrong. plagues.”
Calling her severe and stern. D Rom. 5:12-“Sin entered into the world, and death bp
While her heart for them doth burn. sin.”
Weave, then weave, a grateful wreath, Rom. 0:23-“For the wages of sin is denth.”
For the siqters, Life and Death. 1 Cor. 15 :26-“ The last enemy that shall be destroyed iq
death.‘,
“Tf fair Life her sister lost, Verse 54-“80 when this rorruptible shall hn\-~‘ put on
On a boundless ocean tost incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortalitr
She would rove in great unrest, then shall be brought to pa~ss the saying that is written, Death
Missing that warm, loving breast; is swallowed up in victory.”
NOW, when scared by wild alarms, 2 Tim. 1 :lO-“ But is now made manifest [his purpose and
She can seek her sister’s arms- grace] by the appearing of our Snviour Jesus Christ. who hnth
To that tender bosom flee, abolished death. and hath brnught life and immortality to
Sink to sleep in ecstacy.” light through the gospel.,’
We have no comment to make on this. As the paper pub- Heb. 2:14----“Forasmurh then as the children are partakers
lishing it claims to be pre-eminently Biblical in its faith, we of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took pnrt of the
will let the word of the Lord speak for itself. same; that through death he might destroy him that had the
Gen. 2:17--” In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt power of death, that is the devil.”
surely die.” These are a few of the great multitude of texts which show
Deut. 30: 15-“See. I have set before thee this day life and in what light God regards death. It is the pennlty. the result,
good, and death and evil.” the wages of sin: and the devil introduced it into the world.
Prov. 8:36--“All they that hate me love death.” Christ came to destroy it, and. as the last enemy. not friend,
Tsa. 28 :25. 18--“Because ye have said, We have made a of man, it will be destroyed. Let them make a “cnrennnt with
covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement.” etc. death” who hate wisdom: but we abhor death. nnd seek for life
“Snd your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your through the Life Giver. the Lord Jesus Christ.--PrI.
agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing '&SE most painful way tnnjy be the right one. but it is not
scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down the right one becnuna it is the most painful. Tt. is the rirht
by it.,’ wav buecause it is the right way. whether it be painful c or
Ezek. 18 :4-“The soul that sinneth it shall die.” Also delightful, and the notion of self-sacrifice ~jrrry be rooted in
verse 20. spiritual pride.
 TRANSFORMED
“Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is
that good, and agceptable, and perfect will of God.“-Rom. 12 :2.

It should be noticed here that these words of the Apostle the beginning of a change of nature; but a little considera-
are not addressed to the unbelieving world, but to those whom tion, we thi;k, makes it-very clear. That there is a change
he recognizes as brethren, as shown by the preceding verse- of nature for the church is a scriptural truth; and it is
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, . . . . that ye present your also as clearly taught that the change of this class begins
bodies living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God.” here and is completed in the resurrection. (2 Cor. 1:20-22;
It is the prevailing idea among Christians that when a 1 Cor. 15:52.)
man is converted or turned from sin to righteousness, and Now, as Paul says, we have this treasure (the divine
from unbelief and opposition to God to faith, obedience and mind) in earthen vessels, but in due time the treasure shall
reliance upon him, that is the transforming Paul meant. be in a glorious vessel, the spiritual body.
Truly it is a great change--u transformation, but not the The Scriptures show us that the human nature is a like-
transformation that Paul here refers to. That is a trans- ness of the spiritual (Gen. 5 : 1) . For instance, man has
formation of character; but Paul refers to a transformation will, so have God and angels; man has reason, so have they;
of nature promised to believers during the Gospel Age, on man has memory, so have they. The character of the mental
certain conditions. and was urging believers to fulfill those operations of each is the same. With the same data for
conditions. Had such a transformation of character not reasoning, and under the same circumstances these different
already taken place in those whom he addressed, he could natures are able to arrive at the same conclusions: hence
not have termed them brethren-brethren, too, who had some- God can say to men, “Come, let us reason together.”
thing “holy and acceptable unto God” to offer in sacrifice. Though the mental faculties of both natures are similar,
Onlv those who are iustified bv faith in the ransom are yet we know that the spiritual nature has powers beyond
reckoned of God as hol”y and ac&ptable. and above the human-powers, we think, which result, not
This tmnsfownation of nature will result to those who from different faculties, but from the wider range of the
during the Gospel Age present their justified humanity a same faculties, and the different circumstances under which
living sacrifice, as Jesus presented his perfect humanity a they operate.
sacrifice-laying down all right and claim to future human From all that we can gather, we conclude that the human
existence, as well as ignoring present human gratification. nature is a perfect earthly image of the spiritual nature,
The first thing to be sacrificed is our human will; and with the same faculties, only confined to the earthly sphere,
henceforth we may not be guided either by our own or by any with ability and disposition to discern only so much beyond
other human will, but only by the divine will. Gradually it as God sees fit to reveal for man’s benefit and happiness.
then the divine will becomes our will, and we reckon the The divine is the highest order of the spiritual nature; and
human will as not ours, but as the will of another, to be how immeasurable is the distance between God and his crea-
innored and sacrificed. The divine will now havine become tures ! We are only able to catch a glimpse of the glory
o”ur will, we begin to reason, to judge, to think, &om the of the divine wisdom, power and goodness as in panoramic
divine stdndpoint: God’s plan is our plan, and God’s purposes view he causes some of his mighty works to pass before us.
and ways are ours. But we can measure and comprehend the glory of perfect
None can understand this transformation who have not in humanity. Truly there is a vast difference between the divine
good faith presented themselves as sacrifices, and in conse- and the human nature; but, as the Scriptures teach, there
quence come to experience it. Hitherto we might enjoy any- is a likeness, else God and man could have no communion,
thing that was not sinful for the world and all its good no fellowship. It is because there is not a likeness of God in
things were made for man’s enjoyment; the only difficulty was the lower animals that they cannot know or commune with
to subdue the sinful propensities. But the consecrated, in him.
addition to the effort to subdue sin, must sacrifice the present With these thoughts clearly in mind, we are able to more
good things and devote all their energies to the seriice of fully understand how the change from the human to the
God. As through sacrifice we dailv realize that this is not spiritual nature is affected-viz., by carrying the same mental
our rest, that here we have no continuing city, our hearts and powers over to higher conditions. When clothed with the
hopes are turned to that “rest that remaineih for the people heavenly body we shall have the heavenly powers which belong
of God.” And that blessed hone in turn auickens 1 and insnires
II to that glorious body. We shall also have the range of thought
to continued sacrifice. A and scope of power which belong to it. The change of mind
Thus through a sanctified will the mind is renewed, trans- from human to spiritual which we experience here we see 1s
formed; and the desires, hopes and aims begin to gravitate the beginning of that change of nature. True it is but a
toward the spiritual and unseen things promised, while the very small beginning, but the begetting, as this is termed,
human hopes, etc., die. Those thus transformed are reckoned is always but a faint, a small beginning; yet it is the earnest
as “new creatures,” begotten of God and partakers to that or assurance of the finished work. (Eph. 1:13, 14.)
extent of the divine nature. Some have said, How shall we know ourselves when
Mark well the difference between these new creatures and changed? How shall we then know that we are the same
those who are only justified. The latter class is still of the beings that lived and suffered and sacrificed that we might be
earth earthy, and their hopes, ambitions and aims are such partakers of this glory? Will we be the same conscious
as will be fully gratified in the promised restitution of all beings ? Yes, most assuredly. The Scriptures declare that
things. But the former class is not of this world, even as if WE be dead with Christ, WE shall also live with him.
Chr& is not of this world, and their hopes center in the (Rom. 6:8.)
things unseen. where Christ sitteth on the right hand of Changes which daily occur to our human bodies do not
God. The prospect of earthly glory, so enchanting to the cause us to forget the past nor to lose our identity, so the
natural man, would not now be a satisfying portion to those promised change from human to spiritual bodies will not
begotten of this heavenly hope-to those who are now sharers destroy either memory or identity, but will increase their
of the divine mind. power and range. The same divine mind that now is ours,
We see, then, that it is a mistaken idea, though a common ‘with the same memory, the same reasoning powers, etc., will
one, that all good men, surh as Sbraham, Moses, and the then find its powers expanded to immeasurable heights and
Prophets, were begotten of the spirit. depths, in harmony with its new immortal or incorruptible
This new divine mind is now the earnest of our inheritance body, and memory will trace all its career from earliest
of the complete divine nature-mind and body. Some may human infancy, and we will be able by contrast to fully
be a little startled bv this exnression. a divine bodv: but realize the glorious reward of our sacrifice. But this could
we are told that .Jes& is the t&press image of his Father’s not be the case if the human were not a likeness of the
person, and that the overcomers shall be made like unto his spiritual.
glorious body. “There is a natural [human] body, and there These thoughts may help us also to understand how Jesus,
is a spiritual body,” and we have no idea that either our when changed from spiritual to human conditions, viz., a
divine Father or our Lord Jesus are only great minds without human bodv and earthlv limitations,
I
was a man; and though
bodies. They are glorious spiritnal bodies, though it doth it was the same being i”n both cases; under the first condition
not yet appear how great the glory, and shall not until we also it was spiritual: under the second condition it was human.
<hall share the divine likeness, Because the two natures are separate and distinct, yet the
While this transforming of the mind from human to one is a likeness of the other, therefore the same mental
spiritual is a gradual work, the change from a human to a faculties (memory, etc.) being common to both, Jesus could
spiritual horll/ nil1 not he gradual, but instantaneous. remember his former glory which he had before becoming a
It may he difficult for some to see in this change of mind man, but which he had not when he had become a man, a8
(4-S) C6261
JUNE, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (5)

his words prove-“Father, glorify me with the glory I HAD submit ourselves to the will of God, to be transformed by
with thee before the world was” (John 17:5), the glory of the heavenly influences exercised through his word and hi*
the spiritual nature. And that prayer is more than answered spirit.
in his present exaltation to the highest form of spiritual, You that are consecrated, what influence are you sub-
viz., the divine nature. mitting to? The transforming influences lead to preicnt \aer:-
Referring again to the words of our text, we notice that fice and suffering, but the end is glorious. If you are de-
Paul does not say, Do not conform yourselves to this world, veloping under these transforming influences, you are proving
but transform yourselves into the divine likeness; but he daily what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of
says, “Be not conformed . . . . but be transformed.” That God. To such the will of God is made plain. May grace
is well expressed, for we do not either conform or transform divine enable us to walk according to the will of God through
ourselves; but we do submit ourselves either to be conformed suffering, until ushered into the promised glory-until fully
to the world by the worldly influences around us, or else we transformed into his glorious image!

“SEE THAT YE WALK CIRCUMSPECTLY”

Not long since, many who are now rejoicing in the light people; but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall
af the present truth were under the cover of darkness, un- be seen upon thee.” Seeing, then, that these things are so,
easily seeking rest in the short bed and narrow covering of what manner of persons ought zue to be in all holy conversa-
Babvlon’s creeds. Some loved the darkness, but few anxiously tion and godliness 1
longed for the dawn of day. Paul &horted those who enjoyed the light of our Lord’s
To such a voice has come, saving: “Arise, shine; for thy first advent to be followers of God as dear children . . . .
light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” “to walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming
This light that has come- is none other than the glorious the time [securing the opportunity] because the days arc
lieht of our Lord’s presence, for the long-promised second evil.” With still greater emphasis would the Apostle’s words
a&ent is due. At his first’ advent Jesus- said, “I am the apply to those now enjoying-the light of his seiond presence.
light of the world,” and the early disciples were bidden to To walk circumspectly is to walk cautiously. with watch-
arise and shine, their light having come. But since he has fulness every way, with attention to guard against surprise
come in the glory of power the Church is now bidden to arise or danger, and not as fools or those destitute of understanding.
and shine with increasing glory, her glorious light having In this evil day it is important that, having escaped from
come. the former darkness, we be not again deceived and led back.
Few at our Lord’s first advent discerned his light because Once started on the backward track, it is only a question of
the majority preferred darkness; the few gladly received the time how soon we reach the former, or a worse darkness.
light, and through them it has been reflected all through the We have for some time noticed, and called attention to the
gospel age. Thus they in turn became light-bearers as Jesus destructive tendency of the errors advanced in this day of
said-“Ye are the light of the world . . . . Let your light the Church’s final trial, as well as to the superior light which
shine.” (Matt. 5: 14-16.) Had not the mystery of iniquity should enable her to contend against it. Every departure
begun to work, that light would long since have flooded the from the straight course of truth seems now to lead with
world with its glory. But it was a part of the plan of unerring certainty and haste to a denial of the whole system
God to let the mystery of iniquity work, interposing its clouds of truth, even to its very center.
of error and superstition, thus obscuring the light, that the There is special need now to heed Paul’s warning to walk
world might not see until the “due time” had come for binding cautiously, with a constant guard against surprise or danger,
Satan and ushering in the reign of righteousness. (Rev. 20:2.) and not as those destitute of understanding, or as those who
So great has been the deception and darkness brought have never been enlightened. To some, under the delusive
about through this agency of Satan, that but feebly have snares of the adversary, we have noticed that the most un-
even the children of light been able to discern and follow reasonable and most unscriptural assertions were received
it. In fact, as the mystery of iniquity increased in power, and held to with a tenacity which baffled all efforts for
the whole heavens have been overspread with clouds and their rescue, while that which they once hailed with de-
thick darkness, and nearly all of God’s children have sub- light as the truth of God, seemed but an idle tale. To
mitted more or less to the drowsy influence. But to the few such we would again repeat Paul’s exhortation, “Be not
who, feeling the discomfort and- longing for the day have unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord
escaned from the short beds, the message, Let your light is.” The glory of the Lord has risen upon thee; arise, and
shine, has increasing significance now that-the greai light, ihe let it shine throueh thee ! That is not truth. , bvu whatsoever
glorious head of the Church, has come. route it may lead, if its course leads away from the very
Yes, we have seen the light; we have felt its blessed center of our hope-redemption through the precious blood
influence ; our drowsy sensibilities have been quickened into of Christ.
new life, and our hearts leap for joy as we recognize present This blessed truth, on which hangs all our hope, has. like
truth and by faith discern the glory of the coming day. a well-grounded anchor, held God’s children all through the
Well, say some, If the Lord were indeed present would gospel age. Other truths have been either mutilated -or de-
not the whole earth be filled with his glory? Yes, in due stroved. but God has not nermitted the devil in ha wrath to
time it will be, but we remember that he comes as a thief, thro”w away the Christian’:9 anchor. Once let go your anchor
and for a time is unobserved by the world. The world will and you find yourself drifting on :III unknown sea. Thank
not see his light, neither will unfaithful, sleeping children God the anchor will never be destroyed, but you may lose your
of God discern it. The gross darkness of ignorance and un- hold on it. Above the stormy billows of a tempestuous sea
belief will everywhere prevail and only the faithful few will let our brother’s words be heard-“Cast not away therefore
discern Christ’s second advent, until the day of the Lord is your confidence which bath great recompense of reward.”
well advanced and the Sun of righteousness and truth shall Hold fast to the anchor.
have scattered the vail of gross darkness which now covers See that ye walk circumspectly, securing, 01 making sure.
the earth. And to this the prophet’s words agree-“Behold the present opportunity because the prrsent e\11 dny makes
the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the increased vigilance and steadfastntx*?; neressaiy. R. W.

“ONE SOWETH AND ANOTHER REAPETH”

*JOHN 4 : 37.
“Order,” it is said, “is heaven’s first law.” Certain it tions, till we reach the highest order in the class. The vnriety
is that the great designer and framer of all things had re- and perfection in both the vegetable and animal kingdoms
gard to order in all his works. “He spake, and it was done; excite our wonder and admiration. But. however great mar
he commanded, and it stood fast.” How sublime the utter- be the interest in the lower orders. I~II, the crowning a<+ &f
ante: how worthy its divine sourre. Not less sublime the creation : man, made only a little lowrr than the ;inpels.
progressive steps in creation, extending, perhaps, through endowed with reason. privileged with communion wit11 111~
thousands and tens of thousands of years, until the completed Maker, absorbs all our attention.
universe in all its perfection appeared. Not less real, though possibly lr <q ~~o~~~l~~~*uoii~.
1s the order
Notice the order observed in the various organizations shown in the work of man’s rrcBo\erv from the \vltlirring
endowed with life. Whatever department in nature we select, blight of sin.
we pursue the same intricate pathway through various grada- God having foreseen all that would befall his creature.
[62T]
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBuPCH, PA.

devised a plan of redemption which could by no possibility The disciples were sent forth to reap where others had
fall to accomplish the purposes intended. Just here is where sown. The prophets were God’s messengers to the people;
many well meaning p6ople are at fault. It seems to be a they sowed the seed. W7hen a sufficient time had elapsed,
c~ommon belief amonn Christians that God’s nlans are not the reapers came to do their part of the work.
only liable to defeat,-but that they usually a& defeated. The Gospel age, Christ informs us, is also to have a seed
Such belief, however, is dishonoring to God, and comes time and a harvest. After the resurrection he sent his dis-
from a faulty interpretation of the Scriptures. ciples into all the world to preach the gospel of the kingdom.
In the light that now shines on the sacred page, God’s At the end of the world (age, dispensation), the Son of man
~luldren are enabled to more fully comprehend his wonderful will send the reapers, who will gather the wheat into his
plan than was formerly their privilege. The faith of the just barn. (Matt. 13 : 30.)
ir as the shining light that shineth more and more unto Many laborers, though very anxious to be at work, seem
the perfect day. -(PI&. 4: 18.) This light shining on the not to know whether they are to sow or to reap. Perhaps
Word discovers in God’s method a well-defined plan, embrac- we should rather say, They want to sow and reap at the
ing various step4 or stages. It has been termed by some the same time. Failing to comprehend God’s plan, or, more
“plan of the ages,” because it embraces within its scope likely, failing to discover any plan at all, they work hap-
several different dispensations. We notice the patriarchal hazard as they suppose God is doing.
in which the knowledge of God was confined principally to Wheat and tares have been growing together in the field.
one man at a time. The Jewish age during which this knowl- To the casual observer it promised an abundant harvest,
edge was confined principally to the Jewish nation; and the but to him who needs not that any should testify of man,
Gospel age during \\hich Christ is selecting a Church or because he knows what it is in man, it presented a very
bride to be associated with him finally in the work of blessing different view. The harvest is now in progress, and to all
all the families of the earth. f Gen. 12:3.) appearances the tares far outnumber the wheat.
Scripture also mentions “ages to come,” in which God As stated above, many who seem anxious to labor for
will show the erccediny riches of his grace. (Eph. 2:7.) the Master, have no conception of God’s plan. They work
These ages each have a definite time appointed them, and on human plans, and as a consequence those whom they en-
a definite work to perform. In each there is a seed time and deavor to instruct are confused rather than enlightened.
a havrest. Christ came to harvest the fruit of the Jewish “If the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the
age. He sent his disciples forth, not to preach to the Gentiles, ditch.” It seems to be true of this harvest, as of that of
but only to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” In this which Jesus spake, “The harvest truly is great, but the
harvest he burned the chaff, but the wheat he gathered into laborers are few: pray ye, therefore, the Lord of the harvest,
the garner. As many as received him, to them gave he the that he would send forth laborers into his harvest.”
power to become sons of God. (Jno. 1: 12.) s. T. TaCKaBURY.

LOVEST THOU ME MORE THAN THESE?

Of the company called to be the Bride of Christ, but one There is much encouragement for weak, yet earnest and
requirement is made, and that is, supreme love for the Lord loving, saints in the Lord’s dealings with Peter. His im-
which will recognize no rival. petuous, ardent temperament, while it yet overflowed with
You may have inherited a disposition which more or less love for the Master and could truthfully say, “Thou knowest
continually wars against your efforts to please God, but that all things; thou knowest that I love,” was yet constantly a
need not interfere with your acceptableness. The Apostle great disadvantaee to him. even after he had received the
Peter was afflicted with two perverse elements of character, ipirit of adoptiorrinto the divine family.
which doubtless often led to great discouragement and almost The one most praiseworthy trait in Peter’s character was
to doubt of his acceptance. He was naturally very desirous his perseverance inspired by his ardent love. If he made a
of the approval of men, and also very impulsive. - misstep, he was just as quick to realize it and to retrace
That Peter loved the Lord. is evident from the fact that it. He never deliberately and entirely turned away from
he so far overcame these tendencies as to become an open the Lord or admitted another as a sharer of that supreme
and constant follower. thus sharing the reproach of Ch&t. affection. If asked, “Lovest thou me more than these”? could
But when the dreadful hour came that to the popular mind you say with Peter, “Yea, Lord, thou knowcst all things;
moved Jesus an imposter, and his disciples despised and thou knowest that I love thee” 1 Then, to the best of your
blinded fanatics, that-was too much for Pe’ter, and-pride and ability, show your love by your works. Then, though - you
impulse, coupled with fear, led to an emphatic denial that may fall or stumble, you shall not be utterly cast down, for
he ever knew the Lord. Just before this. the same imwlsive- the Lord upholdeth with his hand, (Psa. 37 :24,) and in due
ness had led Peter to draw the sword in the Lord’s def&e. time, by constant effort, vou will be able at least measurably,
Sotwithstandine Peter’s denial of the Lord when under to over-come the weak&lees of your nature.
severe trial, he sadly remembered Jesus’ words and repented, But, lest we should become so discouraged with our re-
as his actions show. He still kept in company wfth the peated .failures or only partial victories over old tendencies,
other disciples, all of whom were greatly perplexed and dis- we should ever bear in mind that all this imperfection of
appointed. Love still cherished the blessed memory of the our old ( Adamic) natures was imputed to Jesus Christ, and
past, though sadly they said, “me trusted that it had been that his death canceled it, and that now his righteousness
he who should have redeemed Israel.” is imputed to us; and, therefore, through faith in him, and
When Marv learned that the Lord had risen, she ran at not in our own actual righteousness, we are acceptable and
once to tell Peter, knowing it would be welcome tidings to may have a well grounded hone of acceptance.
him; and his impulsive love now bounded with joyful hope to -To him that c%ercometh i’s the blessed promise of eternal
find his risen Master. union with Christ-but not to him that overcometh every
When the Lord had met the few disciples and Peter, after perverted tendency of his human nature and is able to presen?
ministering to their temporal wants in the old familiar way, himself aotually perfect. If that were the requirement, not
which led all to recognize him, he addressed Peter, savine, one of US could meet it. But “this is the victory that over-
“Simon, son of .Tonas,-lovest thou me more than these?” 6 cometh the world, even our faith.” ( 1 John 5:4.) - If we have
saith unto him. YKI. Lord: thou knowest that I love thee. He that love for the Lord which leads us to persevere in our
uaith nnto him. F:ccbdmv himbs.” A second and a third repetil efforts to show ourselves approved unto him, even though
tion of the Lord’s qu&ion brought a second and third assur- we persevere through great difficulty, and if our unwavering
anpe and emphasis of Peter’s love and a second and a third re- confidence abides in his Anished work of our redemption, then
petitlcln of the r*ommission to feed the Lord’s children-to we are overcoming, and in the end will be reckoned of God
pread~ tlnl Co<pel. as having overcome, even though we and those about us
It should be noticed, however, that though Peter was thue will realize our human imperfection.
commlssionetl to preach the Gospel, he and all the disciples Courage, then, disheartened one! Go feed my sheep. I
were told to tarry first at Jerusalem until endued with power would not send thee on such important mission did I not
from on high. And in due time-on the day of Pentecost, they know thy love supreme for me and mine. And all thus sent
received the anointing which was the earnest of their in- I will endue with power from on high-the spirit of adoption,
heritance of the divine nature and the pledge of their ac- which is the pledge of your great inheritance with me.
ceptance ad members of the prospective Bride of Christ. MRS. C. T. R.

[6281
 OUR LORD’S PRESENCE
“Art thou he that should come, or look we for another 1” Matt. 11: 3.

John the Baptist was a brave, devoted, faithful servant It was to the fulfillment of this prophecy of his mission
of God. He counted no privation or suffering too great if that Jesus called John’s attention. He could not then say,
thereby he might serve and honor God. And the experience This day is all prophecy concerning me fulfilled; hut he could
of John was very much like the experience of very many and did call attention to certain marked features of prophecy
of God’s children. then being fulfilled which afforded sufficient evidence that
When he first started out on his mission full of zeal and he was indeed the Messiah: For instance-his preaching was
enthusiasm, doubtless he had high hopes of great success- especially to the meek, the poor. Unlike the professed teachers
not success- as it is often measured today, by popularity and of the day, he did not court the favor and flattery of the
fame for oratory, or a great salary, for he was content to rich and neglect the poor, but the very reverse. The poor
live on locusts and wild honey and he wore no soft clothing. had the good news preached to them, and if the rich desired
No, his great anxiety was to have men repent of sin and to to hear they had the privilege of coming on the same con-
be ready to recognize and receive the promised Messiah of ditions and on the same footing, which would certainly incur
whom he was the forerunner. To know that he was chosen the reproach of their rich neighbors and of popular religiour
of God to actually introduce to the world the Messiah, the sentiment.
great deliverer promised away back in Eden and expected Jesus also began to proclaim liberty to the captives of
for four thousand years, must indeed have inspired him with death, to teach that a time was coming when death should be
deepest enthusiasm and zeal. no more, and to illustrate his power to liberate all by loosing
For a time John met with great success and great multi- a few from the bands of death: “These things did Jesus and
tudes repented of sin and were baptized. And after six months manifested forth [before] his glory.” (John 2:ll.) Go and
of such efl’ort John was permitted to point his disci les to tell John again these things, said Jesus. He knows them,
the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the worl x . But but needs to be reminded of them again. This was but a small
it proved to be only Jesus of Nazareth, John’s cousin. And part of the long line of prophetic evidence since made manifest
many said, “Is this not Jesus the son of Joseph the carpenter, to the Church. but it was evidence sufficient for strong,-. un-
whose father and mother we know?” and others said, “What wavering faith.
good thing can come out of Nazareth?” Jewish expectation The same thing is true today. While ail that is prophesied
was indeed greatly disappointed. concerninn the second coming of Christ is not vet due to
John was not so popular after that; his influence began transpire,- yet we see that those things due in the beginning
to wane and his bold faithful course soon led to prison. This of hia day are actually coming to- pass before oui eye:
was a severe test of faith. Doubtless John in common with Nominal Zion now. as at the time of the first advent, is
other Jews had failed to comprehend the object of Christ’s proud, popular
_ - and corrupt, and it is only those who have
first advent, and began to think how strange it seemed that come to realize this-those who mourn in Zion-who are
his own cousin, of humble birth and without worldly honor comforted by the good tidings now brought by the great Head
should be pointed out as the Messiah in whom the hope of of the Church, whose promised presence was to bring new
the world should center. light. Now, as then, it is the poor-the meek, who receive
In his discouragement and loneliness John’s faith began him eladlv and to whom his snecial attention is directed:
to waver-had he indeed been deceived in this matter? In- these-are “receiving the exceeding beauty and glorv of God’s
stead of this prison and this reproach among men, he might unfolding plan for the ashes of old human traditions, the
have been enjoying the honors and comforts of the world: oil of joy for mourning and the garment of praise for the
had he in his enthusiasm made a great mistake4 spirit of heaviness.
Thus disturbed by doubts John sent two of his disciples * The prophecy of Isa. 61: 1-3 was due to have onlv n partial
to Jesus saying, “Art thou he that should come, or look we fulfillment at our Lord’s first advent: it3 comolete’fulfillment
for another 1” is due in this, his day. But we should not e’lpcct all of its
At this time Jesus was publicly preaching and calling fulfillment in. the first dawn of the day. The opening of
attention to the fact that according to the prophets the time the orison doors of death to those that are bound bv it is
was fulfilled and the kingdom of heaven was at hand. Mark not yet due, but will follow in its order. The “iay of
1:14, 15. But in answer to John’s question Jesus did not vengeance” foretold is now due, and every student of the
say, Go and tell John that we are now living in the beginning signs of the times is able to recognize the gathering storm.
of the 79th week of Daniel’s prophecy. (Dan. 9:24-27,) though As Jesus said, “Ye can discern the face of the sky; but can
that wds true; nor did he furnish all the other prophetic ye not discern the signs of the times?” (Matt. 16:3.)
evidence that pointed to him for fulfillment: But Jesus said, Doubtless, the principal cause of John’s doubts was tbr
“Go and show ,John again, those things which ye do hear and disaooointment of his Jewish expectations as to the nLan,ler of
see: The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the Chri%s coming, and this, we see, is a ra~iqr of stumbling to
lepers are cltbansed. and the deaf hear, the dead are raised many today. Let us ever bear in mind Jesus’s word*--“The
up and the poor have the gospel preached to them. And kingdom of God comes not with outward show, nor shall they
blessed is IIC whosoever shall not be offended in me.” (Matt. say, Behold here or there, for behold God’s roy;ll xn:l1r+
12:3-K) is among you”-unseen by the natural eye. and at filht un
Notice that the things they could plainly see and hear discovered bv the world. (Luke 17:20. Dinglott.)
were evidence sufficient that this was indeed the Christ. When “If anyone should say to you then, Behold hcrc is ?\Ie+n111.
God would make known to us any great truth he does not or there. believe it not . . . . If thev sav to van. Brholtl hr
confine himself to any one method of proving it, but gives is in the desert! go not forth; or,” Behold he 1~ 11, >ec,rcat
evidence in various ways. apartments! believe it not. For as the lightningn tmcr <::(l;
Just so it is that the great fact of our Lord’s second from the east and shines to the west. so will be thr pre~~‘n**e
presence is now made known. To those saints who now like of the Son of man.” (Mntt. 24:23, 26-28.) The c\ ~&IIc~~ of
John inquire, “Art thou he that should come, or look we the kingdom being come is the fulfillment of the I.lht port of
for another?” our Lord sends answer, saying, “Go tell .them this prophecy of Isaiah, the former part of which Jta.11~ g:~\e
again the things which ye do see and hear. And blessed is he as evidence of the first presence (Luke 3: 13-20.) The d;l\-
whosoever shall not be offended in me.” of vengeance upon every form of evil, oppression, and sin, iq
At his Arst advent the people not only heard the procla- here. and the evidences are ever thickening. We rccognl,rl
mation, “The time is fulfilled,” but they could see the actual his presence by these very evidences-the lightning fl.~she~ of
fulfillment of those prophecies concerning Christ which were truth. And where the truth-the food-is found tllcrc the
then due. The Prophet had said, referring to Christ, “The eagle-eyed, far-seeing, hungry saints are gathering and are
spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord hath being fed and enlightened.
c.
(v. 28.) Yes. we PC’Ctlw II.I-he-
anointed me to preach good tidings to the meek; he hath sent of light which attend and attest our Master’s prcscncc~. and wc
me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to are being richly fed at his table (Luke 12 :37) : but thou$
the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are Christ has been seen and known in the flesh, wo e\pc~$ to see
bound; to proclaim the acceptuble year of the Lord.” (Isa. him so no more. (2 Cor. 6: IC,), but we shi~ll belt’him ns he
6l:l.) is when made like him.

WE WORK TOGETHER
WE work together, if far apart, We work as bearing the same good mrme;
Hands in unison, heart to heart. We dare not loiter. but still pursue
We work as having one common aim; The work of the Master, with him in view.
16291 (b-71
 HUMANITY’S TRUE SUPPORT
Father. thou knowest best, E’en though the darkness falls,
This thought is all my stay; And hides the path from view,
I see but just the step ahead, Thy rod and staff direct me still,
Thou knowest all the way. And will my strength renew.

To me, as on I walk, Father, the way seems long,

The way seems all obscure, My strength is very weak,
But thou wilt guide my trembling feet, Support me still by thy right hand,
And make my footsteps sure. And words of comfort speak.

THE W ILL OF GOD

“Who will have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth.“-1 Tim. 2 :4.
The term “saved,” in general signifles to deZiwer. What he has first had it. When I say “the salvation is placed
the nature of the deliverance is must be determined bv the before comine to the knowledpe of the truth” I do not mean
circumstances. It may be from dangers of any kin;d; it that in the-order of the w&k all men must actually be
may be from enemies temporal or spiritual; from sin; from saved or made alive from the dead before they receive that
temptations; from death, temporal, spiritual, or eternal; it knowledge; but, that God’s will to revive all men is based
mav be from ignorance, or a helpless state that prevents our on the fact that in no other way can the mass of the race
att&ment of -good that our Creator has prepared for his ever come to the knowledge of the truth, the reception or
creatures. In this case it is the removal of these disabilities. reiection of which is to determine their final state: and
etc. These uses of the terms save, saved, and salvation, it God’s impartial “love of the world” is a pledge that “every
1s presumed will not be questioned by any one. man” shall come to the knowledge of that love in the eift
Two facts are stated in the text above: 1. God “will of “his only begotten Son” to begtow life eternal on all <ho
have all men to be saved,” 2. God will have all men come will receive him when made known to them.
to the knowledge of the truth.” On these two facts rest the It is a fact the gospel is to be preached ‘(to every crea-
sum of the gospel. Without controverting the truth that the ture” ; the gospel of God’s love to the world, and of Christ
terms save, saved, etc., are used often in a restricted sense, as thk LIFE%I?EB for all men: and until it is proclaimed
or are applied to. a deliverance which is conditional, I pro: to “everv man.” or. to each individual. that individual has
teed to notice the first fact stated in the text: not the iroper’ prodation, and his final ‘state cannot be fixed
according to the gospel preached to Abraham and confirmed
1. “God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved.” in Christ. Then. saith Paul. “If we sin wilfullu after that
Here is a salvation which is clearly unconditiona2, and depends we have received’ the knowledge of the truth, ‘theie rimaineth
alone on the u;ill of God. It is equally clear that an no more sacrifice for sin” (Heb. 10 :26). Thus the Apostle
ultimate or Anal salvation is conditional, based on the keeps the two facts of the text in view, and shows that
“belief of the truth” as well as t,hrough “sanctification of death must be abolished and all men saved from it or God’s
the Spirit,” (2 Thes. 2. 13). Texts need not be multiplied will would be defeated, and all men could not have the knowl-
on this point. The salvation in the text under consideration edge of the truth. But God’s will shall be accomplished, and
admits of no conditions, as we shall see; it depends entirely death cannot prevent it; he has taken care to see that that
on the “will” of “God our Saviour; who will have all men “last enemy shall be de&royed” ( 1 Cor. 15 :26 j, so that no
to be saved;” not desires them to be saved: but has willed man who has died in ignorance of God’s love and his pro-
or determined they shall be saved. visions for their ultimate redemption from sin and all its
The question then is, What is the nature of this salvation final consequences, shall fail of eternal life except by a wilful
which is unconditional and certain? Paul answers: “As by rejection of the truth, when, or after, he has come to the
the offense of one, judgment came upon all men to condemna- knowledge of it.
tion [to death] ; even so, by the righteousness of one, the Such is “God our Saviour’s will”; and who or what can
free gift came upon all men unto the justification of life: defeat his counsel so as to make his word void ? Has he
for as by one man’s disobedience the many [all men] were not said, “My counsel shall stand, and I will do my pleasure”
made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall the many be (Isa. 46:lO) ?
made righteous” (Rom. 5. 18, 19). That is, as all men die That I have taken the correct view of the text the con-
by one man’s sin-Adam’s-so by one man’s righteousness- text shows. The Apostle says: “I exhort that first of all
Christ’s-shall all men be made alive from the dead. This supplications, prayer;, interce”ssions, and giving of thanks be
revival from the dead is to all men unconditional: but a made for all men . . . . for this is good and acceptable in
revival to immortality and eternal life is conditional. The the sight of God our Saviour, who will have ctll men to be
universal revival restores all men from the death that came saved” etc * “for there is one God, and one Mediator between
upon them as the result of Adam’s sin. In this respect, God ‘and Gen. the man Christ Jesus. who eave himself a
Christ has “abolished death”-annulled it: made it void, or ransom for di, to be testified in due time” (“1 Tim. 2:1-6).
Dowerless to hold one of Adam’s race. This is the salvation Hence the absolute necessity that all men be saved from
“God will have all men” receive, irrespective of any will of death, else God’s will, that they shall “come to the knowledge
their own. This will further armear as the examination of the truth,” is defeated, and his “due time” will never be
of the second fact in the text p&eeds. reached. The death by Adam is annulled, so that no man
2. “God our Saviour, who will have all men . . . . come can be held by it. If held in death at all, it is because
to the knowledge of the truth.” This second fact shows he has sinned “wilfully after that” he has received the knowl-
why God will have all men revived from the dead. Row edge of the truth. Such exceptions no more affect the general
else can innumerable millions ever come to the knowledge truth of the salvation of all men from death, than the general
of the truth? They have died without such knowledge; but truth that “death passed upon all men” is affected %y the
Paul, who received his commission and his message directly translation of Enoch and Eliiah. or that of saints alive at
from the Saviour’s personal manifestation, declares, “God Christ’s return from heaven.” i’he word &embraces the
our Savlour, will have all men come to the knowledge of mass of the race; the exceptions are the few. Some may
the truth ;” and in order to this, He “will have all men to never be released from death, because, personally they have
be saved.” Observe, the salvation is placed before coming involved themselves in its dominion by a wilful rejection
to the knowledge of the truth, and in order that they shall of the DELIVEREB after he was made known to them.--(fee.
have that knowledge; for, no man’s final state is fixed till morrs.

DUTIES OF DAILY LIFE

Life 1s not entirely made up of great evils or heavy trials; patience and self-denial, and the better because not chosen by
but the perpetual recurrence of petty evils and small trials ourselves. To bear with vexation in business, with dis-
1s the ordinary and appointed exercise of the Christian appointment in our expectations, with interruptions of our
graces. To bear with the failings of those about us-with retirement, with folly, intrusions, disturbance-in short, with
perverse tempers--to endure neglect when we feel we deserve whatever opposes our will or contradicts our humor-this
attention, and ingratitude where we expected thanks; to bear habitual acquiescence appears to be more of the essence of
with the company of disagreeable people whom Providence self-denial than any little rigors or afflictions of our own
has placed In our way and whom he has provided on purpose imposing. These constant, inevitable, but inferior evils prop-
for the trial of our virtue, these are the best exercises of erly improved, furnish a good moral discipline.-Selected.
(7) 16301
 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Question. Your explanation as to how death is to be There, the harvest time began-the separation of wheat from
destroyed in the next age seems most reasonble, but there tares, etc. Since the fall of 1881 we-learn that “blessed are
has ever seemed to be one scripture in the way, viz., “The the dead that die in the Lord from henceforth”-blessed
child shall die a hundred years old.” (Isa. 65:20.) This because they would not have to sleep, for to t6em the instant
child must be one in process of restoration; how, then, can of death is the instant of change.
it diet At that time we believe that the resurrection of the dead
Answer. By reading the entire verse, especially as given saints was due, because the living were not to be changed
in Leeser’s translation. the thought will be more clearlv until Arst the dead are raised. (-i Thes. 4:16.) Rev. 14T13
understood. Verse 17 ‘shows thai the time referred to i’B (Diaglott) also informs us that those who thus find it blessed
under the new heavens (new ruling powers) and the new to dii, “r&t from their labors, and their works follow with
earth (mankind regenerated or brought to life again). Verse them.” That is, the labor and toil incident to the work here
20 reads: “There shall no more come thence an infant of will cease, and they will continue their work untrammeled
few days, nor an old man that shall not have the full length by earthly hindrances.
of his days; for as a lad shall one die a hundred years Of course, as soon as they are changed they are with
old: and as a sinner shall be accursed he who dieth at a the Lord, and like him are present but unseen, and engaged
hundred years old.” with him in the present work. This being true those en-
The inference is nlain. No infant shall be born to die gaged in the wo& on the earthly plane a;e co-workers to-
in a few days, as miny now do, but every one born in that gether with them. The condition of the Church and world
time shall come to years of maturity. Now they die because &ring this period, observation will show. “Behold,” even
the fathers have eaten the sour grape of sin, but if any die now “the Lord cometh with ten thousand of his saints.”
in that age it will be on account of their own sins, and (Jude 14.) Just how long it will be before the whole body
not of their father’s sins. (Jer. 31:29, 30.) If he dies at all of Christ is changed is wiselv hidden from us to Drove our
in that age, it will not be until he has reached the age of faithfulness. It may be a ve<y brief time, or it mai be some
one hundred years; but he need not die if he will comply with years vet. Blessed is he that endurcth to the end.
the conditions for retaining life. If he dies at a hundred The theory that Jesus would divide the second advent into
years, it will be because he is a sinner, because he will not two parts, first to gather his saints and afterward to with
submit to the easy yoke and light burden which is necessary them judge the world in righteousness, is a misleading theory
for his development and perfecting. It will be his own fault, which has gained some prominence of late years, being ad-
and cannot be attributed- to any &her. He dies for his own vanced by some people called PLYMOTJTH BRETHREN. It seemed
sin, not Adam’s, and as Adamic sin has been cancelled so to them a necessary theory because of one truth and one
has Adamic death, and when he dies it is not Adamic death, error which they attempted to unite. They saw from Scripture
but the secolid death from which there is no redemption. that the Lord’s coming would be as a thief unobservedly.
The shortest period of probation in the next age will They saw, too, that a separation of the true from the luke-
be one hundred years. And such as refuse to make progress warm and cold in the Church must take place, and the little
under those favorable conditions, will be cut off from life flock be exalted to power before the world’s trial commenced.
after one hundred years trial, but even then he would be These considerations and others led them to the correct
but a lad comnarativelv. thought, that Jesus would be present and accomplish a work
But some might inquire, How will it be with those born for and in the Church before it would be glorified.
in this age and regenerated or brought to life again in the But we think that in holding to a visible fleshly coming
age to come ? W&Id the time thiy lived her: count as of Jesus they erred, and to have a place for both thoughts
part of their probation there? No, for the Prophet says, they concluded that Jesus would go away with his Church
Neither shall there be an old man that shall not have the all unseen to the world, and then all come together in the
full length of his days, i. e., the full length of his days of flesh visible to human sight,-with observation or demonstra-
probation, a hundred years. The old man who died, and tion to establish a visible dominion in some spot of earth-
who will be brought to life again, will have just the same probably Palestine. (Luke 17 :20.)
chance as the infant in that ape. He shall have the full length To our understanding there is only one second coming.
of his probation, and all who improve it may have everlasting He comes to do a variety of work, and shall not leave it
life. nor return until he hath accomplished to put down all power
“True and righteous are thy ways, Lord God Almighty.” and authority. “He shall not fail nor be discouraeed till
Q. Is it anywhere stated how long a time will intervene he hath set fudgment in the earth” (Isa. 42:4), haviig first
between the coming of Christ for his saints, and his coming selected and glorified his saints.
with them to judge the world; and what will be the moral Q. Will rnfants come up infants in the age to come?
aspect of the Church and world during this period? A. Since “there is no work, nor device, nor knowledee.
A. We have learned, as heretofore shown, that the coming nor wisdom in the grave whither thou goe&.” (Eccl. 9: lo”,;
of Christ for his saints was in the fall of 1874, and that we believe that infants and all will be raised just as they
the first work before him was the glorifying of the saints. went down, excepting infirmity and disease.

WORDS AND DEEDS

They do the least They do the most And if the heart
Who talk the most: Whose lives possess Be pure and good,
Whose good designs The sterling stamp The life will be
Are all their boast! Of righteousness ; Just what it should-
For words are dew. For deeds are true. Not dew, but true.
--Selected.
LET NOT YOUR HEARTS BE TROUBLED
“Let not your hearts be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions:
if it were not so, I would have told YOU. I go to prepare a place for you.” (Jno. 14: 1, 2.)
Emboldened by his success in Eden, Satan attempted again justify many; for he shall hear fhcir iniquities.” In harmony
to thwart the benevolent designs of God, by deceiving the with this, Peter says, (1 Pet. 2:24.) “Who his own self
second Adam. bear our sins in his own bodv on the tree.”
He, therefore, boldly presented himself, and proposed a Jesus, knowing the Father’s plan, and his own will being
compromise, which would avoid the necessity of suffering in entire harmony with that of the Father, went steadily
and death on the part of Jesus, and enable him in another forward to accomplish that will, even unto death.
way to accomplish the purpose for which God sent him into There is no evidence that the adversary ever renewed the
the world, viz.: “that the world through him might be encounter of the wilderness. The “Forerunner” had given
saved” ( Jno. 3 : 17. ) evidence that all Satan’s arts were exercised on him in min.
Jesus, however. had the necessary knowledge to enable But there was still hope; for the “followers” could be met
him to see that this suggestion was only to oppose the one by one, and might he not br more successful with them’
plan of God. He knew that as all human life had been Jesus knew what the plan of Satan would be. for God
forfeited by Adam’s transgression, to purchase back-redeem had given him a revelation of the things that must shortl;r
that life-his own must be given, as written by the prophet come to pass “to his servants.” Jesus foreknew that taking
(Isa. 53:ll.) “By his knowledge shall my righteous servant a new departure, the wily foe of God and man would hence-
16311 (7-S)
(V ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

forth seek to turn the “followers” aside from the path-way, We can now see how necessary to Jesus’ followers the
by transforming himself into an angel of light, and causing many assurances of the Word, that all rule and all authority
errors to be cub-tituted for truth. opposed to his will shall finally be subdued. Into what trouble
To acquaint the disciples with these “wiles of the devil,” what anguish of heart, has a contrary belief cast multitudes
,Trsus uttered the parable recorded in Matt. 13:24-43. He of God’s children.
knew the encmy’s subtle power, and that he would “deceive To the mother who looks for the last time on the lifeless
the very elret If possible.” He foresaw the “falling away” form of her wavward bov, believing him alreadv enduring the
foretold by Paul. (2 Thess. 2:3), and that man of sin re- torment of a world of “woe, how71ike mockeh seem fesus’
vrslcd. and knew the artifice by which it would be done. words, “Let not your heart be troubled.”
Hr. therefore. affectionately warned his followers against Ask her to be joyful when one she loves better than life,
grving heed to doctrines of devils, (so termed by Paul, 1 is doomed to endless despair! It is impossible, and all the
T1n1. 4: I), ashuring them that error could lead only into sophistry which theologians have made use of to reconcile
trouble and darkness. Orthodoxy (so called) with the teachings of Jesus has signally
The more effertnallv to fortify their minds against doc- failed. fiappv thev who “come to Jes& end find rest. Hal;-
tnnrs of srduring spirits, he explains that part of God’s plan DV thev. who‘s0 fullv believe in Him as to be able to cast on
necc~sary to refute- them, and *says in the words quoted at Him etkry burden &d every care.
the head of this article. “Let not vour hearts be troubled.”
Y
But how can a belief in Jesus save from these errors?
We now inorrirc brirflv. What nre these errors that were so We answer, A helirf in Jesus comprehends R helirf in 111ln
surely to cause trouble to such as should be deceived thereby, as suffirient to accomplish the purpose of God, in sending him
and how a helicf in Jesus could save from this trouble? into the world. A belief that he is stronger than the “strong
The first we name is that which Satan found so effectual man armed,” and competent to bind and destroy him. (Matt.
in TXV~-“Thou shalt. not surely die.” Out of this falsehood 12 :29: Heb. 2:14.) That “he gave his life a ransom for ail
Satan ha9 made mnre capital, seemingly, than out of all to be testified (to them) in due time.” ( 1 Tim. 2:6.)
others combinrd. On it he has founded all those horrible Finally, to believe the words quoted at the head of this ar-
syqtems of religion among heathen nations, the bare mention ticle, that in his Father’s house (Kingdom) are many man-
of which shocks the sensibilities of every human being. By sions (ronditions of hcing) and that what he W R S goin= to pre-
this he has kept his seat firmlv as the ruler of this world, pare for his church was not all that is to be attained by God’s
and relentlessly caused his crue”1 mandates to be obeyed.. creatures.
In Christian communities, with an open Bible where it is On the contrary, a kingdom had been prepared from the
written, “Only God hath immortality,” (1 Tim. 6:16,) this foundation of the world (Matt. 25 :34) for the human sons,
has been scarcely less prevalent; and may we not add, hardly and though forfeited by man on account of disobedience. is to
less baneful in its effects. On it has been built the awful be restored as taught by all God’s prophets (Acts. 3 :21) and
and God-dishonoring dogma of eternal torment, which teaches all mankind brought back to life, (Jno. 5:28), and given an
that the wicked are assigned. immediately at death, to endless opportunity to come into harmony with God’s laws and need
torture, without a ray of hope that the wrath of God will no more.
ever permit them to repent. Strangely enough, those who Thus, as God’s children come to a knowledge of his gin-
teach this doctrine 6x a day somewhere in the dim future, rious nlan. and are enabled to realize that his work is surelv
in which these millions of beings, with those who also, at going *forward to success, doubts and fears give way, rejoiri?,n
the moment of death, entered the bliss of heaven, shall be takes the place of despondency, and with the angelic choir
summoned forth to judgment, to be rewarded or condemned they sing, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace
to the very condition m which they have existed, some of and good will to men.“-(Luke, 2: 14.) S. T. T.
them for thousands of years.

“FEAR HATH TORMENT”

So saith the Apostle. Some Christians are paralyzed for would snap into fragments. Hc was cured by a friend delib-
life by the monomania of fear. They fear to pray in public. erately upsetting him from his carriage, when he arose from
They fear to be singular for right. They are afraid to give the ground sound in mind as well as body. The cure for a
to the Lord’s cause lest they come to msnt. They fear to re- molish fear is faith and a forced obedienre of duty. Just as
buke a brother for his fault. They fear to confess Christ be- there is one cure for selfishness-self-sacrifice; as there is one
fore men. They are afraid to leave a rhurch or party that has cure for spiritual laziness- work, there is one cure for timid-
left the truth. They are afraid to espouse a good cause where ity and that is to plunge into a disagreeable duty before the
it is not popular. They are like the invalid afflicted with ague shiver has time to come on. Whatsoever thy hand And-
the delusion that he was made of brittle clay and if struck eth to do, do it with thy might.--Selected.

THE COMING CONFLICT

“That there is to be a struggle. and a hard one, for the State in its right of educator, intellectual and moral, in its
control m our Republic between the people constituting the administration of justice, in the safety of elections from priest-
State, and the ecclesiastics who represent the Romish Church, ly control, and in every other legitimate exercise of sov-
no rational man who understands the situation can for a mo- ereignty-or that if these be yielded through treachery or in-
ment doubt. In the light of history and reason it seems difference, the struggle will sooner or later be transferred to
equally clear, either that the struggle is now to be decided by the battle-field, and decided in the most terrible of conflicts,
maintaining against the opposition the supremacy of the a religious war. “-Hon. John Jay.

A BEAUTIFUL THOUGHT
Our Lord says, “I will guide thee with mine eye.” The would guide us, but only those whose DELIGHT is in the law of
eye 1s very expressive of every emotion of pleasure or pain, the Lord can be so led. Such loving ones may walk from day
and a loving nature, whose delight is in the favor of another, to day in delightful communion with God, and even while their
will carefully note the look of approval or disapproval before human nature is being crucified daily, the new nature may re-
a word of commendation or reproof is uttered. Thus our Lord joice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.

-4s EXCHANGE says: “A man crossed the Mississippi river world that is just the way most Christians go to the heaven1
on the ice, and fearing it was too thin, began to crawl over Canaan, trembling at every step, lest the promises shall brea E
on his hands and knees in great terror, but just as he gained under our feet, when really they are secure enough for us to
the oppocite shore, all tired out, another man drove past him hold up our heads and sing with confidence as we march to
gaply ~JttJJJg upon a sled loaded with pig-iron. And for all the the better land.”

“TIE STOIJTEST TIMRER stands on Norwegian rocks, where battle with, which has its hands full of good works, which has
tempests rage. and long hard winters reign. The muscles are neither time nor room for evil, but, aiming at great things
seen most fully developrd in the brawny arm that plies the both for God and man, promptly and summarily dismisses
hlaqkcmith’s hammer. Even so the most vigorous and healthy temptations with Nehemiah’s answer, ‘I have a great work to
prety J\ that which is the busiest, which has difficulties to do, therefore I cannot come down.’ “- Bekoted.
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VOL. v PITTSBURGH, PA., JULY, 1884 No. 11

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

“Thus saith the Lord Eternal, Behold, I will be against Surely we have evidence that we are now in this cloudy
the shepherds, and I will require [take] my flock from their day-that the Chief Shepherd is present. If not, whence
hand, and I will stop them from feeding the flock; neither comes the food upon.which we are feeding, and the refreshing
shall the shepherds feed themselves any more. And I will rest of faith whi;h we now enjoy. Is it-not in fulfillment 03
deliver my flock out of their mouth that they may not serve what was written-“And I will feed mv” flock. and I will cause
them for food. them to lie down.” Ver. 15.
“For thus saith the Lord Eternal, Behold, I AM HEBE, and The same lesson is expressed through Jeremiah (23: 1, 4)
I will both inquire for my flocks and search for them. and Isaiah touchingly refers to the Lord’s care for even the
“As a shepherd searcheth for his flock on THE DAY THAT HE weakest of the flock in the dau of His presetlce, saying: “Like
IS AMORQ his flocks that are scattered, so will I search for my a shepherd will he feed his flock:. with-his arm wiil hi gather
flocks, and I will deliver them out of all places whither they the lambs. and in his bosom will he carrv them.” Iqa. 40 : 11.
have been scattered, on THE DAY OF CLOUDS and tempestuous The Shepherd has been feeding us wonderfully during the
darkness.” (Ezek. 34: 10, 12)-Leeser’s Trans. past few years, and all who are being strengthined th;?reby
The Good Shepherd who gave his life for the sheep has should be aware that he is collectine his sheep, and though
various flocks as intimated above, and by His own words: scattered over the hills of sectarianis;, he calls kis own sheep
“Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also together into one fold-one church-as it was at first.
I must bring, and they shall hear my voice, and there shall How strange it seems that some cannot realize this; but
be once fold and one shepherd.” (John 10:36.) when they hear his call, “Come”’ “Come out of her.” [Babylon
The above scripture not only relates to “Israel after the --confusion,] they seem loath to leave, and unused to the
flesh,” one of the flocks to be gathered and fed by the Shep- liberty wherewith Christ makes free, they inquire, If we come
herd, but it has special reference to the spiritual flock, the out, into what shall we go? They are so used to bondage to
saints of the Gospel Age. As represented in Matt. 13 :52, systems and forms and rules of men, that they cannot realize
the under-shenherds whose dutv it was to “feed the flock,” the strength of the fold which has no other bars than the
bringing forth to them things”new and old, have sadly ne- Word of God; they cannot realize the ONENESS of that flock
glected their office and devoted much of their time to feeding which is kept together simply and only by bonds of Zoce one
themselves upon the husks of science and man-made theology, for another and for the Shepherd.
and in ho&ring each other with the titles Rabbi, Mast%, Looking from the TOWER it seems that there are many
Reverend. and Doctor. seeking not rather the feedine and such sheep now, who, because of weakness of faith in the
strengthening of the flbck in &e knowledge of the trut$ and words of the Shepherd, and holding to the traditions of men,
that honor which cometh from God only. may lose the high honor of membership ill the chief flock-a
As prophetically foretold in the preceding verses of this place among the overcomers. Let us take heed.
chapter : “The fat ye [shepherds] eat, and with the wool ye But the work of the Shepherd will be first directed to the
clot)le yourselves; those t&at are well fed [that despite the assistance, feeding and gathiring of the first or special flock,
neelect of the shenherds find aastures of truth. and feed. vet we thank God that this Shepherd will leave none who
th&el ye slaughte; [not now,* as a century 0; more agd truly belong to his flocks to starve. “With his arm [power]
literally skzugh?er, but slaughter their influence, casting out he will gather the lambs,” and lead them and feed them.
their names as evil]. But the flock ye feed not.” Ver. 3. Yes, when the arm of the Lord is revealed-when his power
“My sheep have to wander about on all the mountains, is manifest in the overturning of all false systems, then
and upon every high hill: yea, over the face of the land is my some will SEE, and hear, and obey, who have not the orer-
flock scattered.” Ver. 6. The Lord’s sheen are intermixed with coming strength now.
various nations (mountains) and in v&ious high hills (SO- It is of this class we read, “These are they which came
&ties of earth-churches) “there is none that inquireth, none out of great tribulation,” and “The Lamb which is in the
seeketh after them.” The shepherds sanction the scattered midst of the throne [then in exalted Dower1 shall fed them
and divided condition of the Lord’s sheep, even claiming that and shall LEAD them.” (Rev. 7:14, l’?.) They wiil then be
it is the Chief Shepherd’s will that they should be separated. ready to be led out of false systems to follow the Shepherd’s
But the words at the head of this article assert that at a leading.
certain time the Lord comes to the rescue of his sheep, and Meantime, “Israel after the flesh” will not be neglected;
casts aside the unfaithful shepherds. Mark well that this will for though of another flock, they are under the same Shepherd.
be when he is present “here” and “among his flocks that are Libertv and restoration to national union and favor will be
scattered.” No&e also that his presence “among his flocks” grante”d to them! that in due time they may be fitting chan-
is in the “day of clouds of darkness”-in the day of trouble. nels through which the truth of God may pass to refresh, re-
Trouble on the nations and upon the unfdithful shepherds. vive and bless all the families of the earth.

WORKING WITH GOD

In an article in June ZION'S WATCH TOWEB, page 6, by devil’s children, (especia!ly if they were rich,) that she might
Bro. Tackabury, showing the advantages of understanding boast of her numbers and influence, than to have a few ~110
God’s plan of the ages, and the importance of knowing the are consecrated. In fact, the truly converted are not what
seasons-as seed time and harvest-that we may work in har- she wants at all: thev would. bv their “old fogv” notions,
mony with God’s plan, we find this paragraph: “Many labor- keep out the ver; clas”s she want> to have in. -”
ers, though very anxious to be at work, seem not to know Among her favorite songs are, “Gather them in,” and
whether they are to sow or reap. Perhaps we should rather “Whosoever will may come,”
say, they want to sow and reap at the same time. Failing to She seeks to reap without sowing. The plough and spade
comprehend God’s plan, or, more likely, failing to discover are not suited to her dainty hand<. But -she-has ren$ng
any plan at all, they work tip-hazard, as they suppose God machines, and patent binding machines. and combiucd threah-
is doing.” ers and ‘winnowers, that c& out the whe;lt and save the
How true the picture-hap-haxard just expresses it-and chaff; and recently she has borrowed from the politicians an
the reason, “As they suppose God is doing.” As I read, the elevating machine to store her treasures in the coveted places
picture Jesus gave ;s 04 ‘these times came-up, and the stupid in her barns.
and falsifvine answer of the slothful servant: “Lord. I knew Seriously, the Churches have plenty of machinery, good
thee that” th& art a hard man, reaping where thou didst facilities and well systematized work by many workers. Why.
not sow, and gathering where thbu dcdst-not scatter: and I then, do not the nations fall before her? Some of their blind
was afraid, and went away and hid thy talent in the earth,” leaders, looking with pride upon their facilities, boast that it
etc. (Matt. 25.) Instead of developing the talent confided to will take but a few years more to convert the world.
his care by the Lord, he buried it. Why? He was ignorant Looking from their standpoint, it is not unreasonable th:lt
of his Lord’s character and will. He imaeined that the Lord they should think so. Surely such a vast amount of machlncr?
was selfish and exacting, claiming more” than he had any and organized effort ought to accomplish wonders. Think
right to. Is it strange that the nominal Church should have of the -Young Men’s Chr&tian Associaiion. with it< myr~adq
the same spirit? Greedy, intolerant, haughty and boastful, of workers evervwhere : the Women’s Chrirt inn Trnint~.~n~~r
she wants to reap without sowing, to gather where she Union, rapidly spreadink its numbers nnd influcnc~c , th; Homr
has no right. She would rather fill the Church with the Missionary enterprises of various kind; the Intcruntionnl 8.
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PI'lTSBUPGH, PA.

. svsjtem * the sermons, lectures, inquiry meetings, etc., etc.

b. .* victory? What of Gideon, and Samson, and David, and Ne-
\\‘hr id it that in the presence of this vast army of zealous, hemiah, and many others who fought the Lord’s battles? If
tirelesi workers so little* is being accomplished?” The acces- a handful work&g in harmony wa& God could do so much,
aions to the Church do not keep pace with the population, what should be done through these millions ?
so that, instead of conouerin,n the world, the Church is act- There can be but one answer: their zeal is not according
ually falling behind, &nd &at rapidly.’ Secret skepticism to a knowledge of God’s plans-they are not working wath
and blatant blahphemy are steadily increasing; crime and cor- God ?
ruption fill the newspapers. which, in many cases, are eagerly Jesus said : “He that is not with me is against me: he
bought for the sake of their filthy record. that gathereth not with me scattereth.” (Matt. 12 :30; Isa.
Whv cannot some see that something must be radically 26: 17, 18.) W. I. M.
wrong ‘in this matter? Is God unable to give this army the

THE SALT OF THE EARTH

“Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good fot
nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” Matt. 5:13.
Salt is permeating in its character, and is a well known they received them, and generally consider these things as the
preservative against decay, and is therefore a fitting symbol result of their own wisdom.
of the prinicples of Christianity and those in whose life those This salt has, at least to some extent, penetrated all na-
principles are exemplified. The character of a child of God tions with results corresponding to the amount received. Since
is known and read by those of the world who never think of these who have been the salt of the earth, have grown up
reading God’s written revelation, and it is emphatically true, largely under the shadow of the Mystery of Iniquity, that
that these living representatives of the principles of Christian- great system has not only persecuted zhern; but it h‘as Eiaimed
ity, are the salt of the earth. as the result of its own working. all the benefits which have
If we would see the effect of this salt we have only to accrued to the world as the regilt of their effort. But the
consider the difference between the so-called Christian and real character of the great Babylon system has ever been to
heathen nations of the world today. The superstition and ig- becloud the truth, advance error, promote superstition, fetter
norance of the latter impede progress in every direction. thought, and retard progress. Whatever progress the saints
Take, for instance, China. In morality her standard is exceed- have made in gaining a knowledge of the truth has ever been
ingly low, and the mass of that vast nation seem to have against her strong opposition. Yet God permitted the true and
lost those manly traits of character which distinguish the the false, the wheat and the tares to grow together until the
human from the lower orders of being; its system of education harvest. (Matt. 13:28-30.) And now, in the harvest time,
is a mere memorizing and inculcating of the old fables and the saints, the real salt of the earth, are being separated from
superstitions of the past. These superstitions forbid any ad- the false ones in the Church, and shall soon be exalted to
rahcement in science; philosophy, a&, and what is generally power, and through that power they will be enabled to thor-
called civilization. Railroads and telegranhs can scarcelv be oughly salt all nations. The blessed truths and Drinciples
constructed because they come in con&ct’with those ala’ SU- of -Ch&stianity shall then permeate not only all naeions, but
per$t$s. So it is in India. and in ey:rs heathen country.. all hearts. “The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the
, we hear many voices say, this great progress in Lord as the waters cover the sea.” Isa. 11:9.
civilization in Christian nations is due to the influence of the But there is another important thought in the text under
Church;” and by the Church they mean that great organiza- consideration. Jesus inquires : “If the &It have lost its savor.
tion, or rather union of diverse organizations, which the wherewith shall it be salted?” and answers, “It is thenceforth
Scriptures term “Babylon,” (Rev. 17 : 18) -the great develop- good for nothing, but to be cast out and to be trodden under
ment of the “Mystery of Iniquity.” But this is a great foot of men.” Here is a solemn fact that we should all lav
mistake: Jesus never said, Babylon, or the Mystery of Ini- well to heart. That which constitutes the saints, the salt df
quity is the salt of the earth; but “ye’‘-the true children of the earth, is the fact that they have been salted with the truth
God-“are the salt of the earth.” and that truth received permeates their being, affecting their
Let us notice, then, how this salt of the earth has been actions, thoughts and words.
working. But first, we obiect to the expression “Christian But if th&e who are the salt of the earth lose their savor,
nations,” for there is not a Christian NATION on the face of I saltness.) that is if thev lose those truths and nrincinles
the earth. If such a nation did exist, it would indeed be the df the g&pel wherewith ihey were salted, where&th &all
salt of the earth. they be salted again ? There is no other gospel that can salt
What is termed civilization is nothing more than the ar- them, or preserve them from decay, putrefaction and ultimate
rest of those elements of decav which are at work in the hu- death. There is no better gospel; there is no grander plan of
man family, and a preservatioxi or salting of the good qualities salvation than that we have learned, and no better teacher
which have not vet become extinct. And this. in so far as it and guide into truth than the Comforter we have received,
has nropressed, “we claim has been done sol& through the and who has led us in plain paths since first we submitted
age&y of the children of God, though hindered, not helped, implicitly to his leading.
by the great “Mystery of Iniquity.” Every truth and prin- Tell us then, if you can, “If the salt have lost its saltness,
ciple that has been brought to light from the Divine Reve- wherewith shall it be salted?” Jesus said, “Zt is good for
lation, and exemplified in the faith and life of the saints, has nothing.” 0, can that be the sad condition of any who once
made its influence felt to some extent on the world, and the were enlightened and who rejoiced in and were sanctified by
aggregate of that influence is seen in the present development the truth? Were such a circumstance not possible, then surely
of civilization. Every martyred saint, and every persecuted, the Master would not have warned of such danger. Let us,
desnised and reiected faithful one. who bravelv defended the therefore, consider well, and beware, and be not too hasty to
truihs and pri&iples of Christianity, has doke his part in decide that the solemn warning is unnecessary and called
thus salting- the Earth, although the false or ignorant pro- attention to by the mere caprice of a brother who for some
fessors who persecuted them, did so in the name of the Lord, selfish end would put the brakes on the wheels of progress.
saying, “Let the Lord be glorified.” Isa. 665 “It is thenceforth good for nothing.” Lord, will it then be
As thus throueh the sufferine. sacrifice and toil of the worthy of eternal life? Will God perpetuate the existence
faithful few, sufic:ent truth has-hawned upon the world to that is “good for nothing”? No, it is to be “cast out and trod-
liberate them from the thraldom of superstition, they have den under foot”-destroyed. Once esteemed of God as the salt
enjoyed a greater degree of liberty. And in that blessed of the earth, afterward “a vessel of wrath fitted to destruc-
liberty and just to the extent that they have received it, has tion.” But while it is possible thus to fall, let us rejoice in
heart and mind espanded; morality has increased; philan- the blessed assurance that none can pluck us out of our
thropic enterpriqes have been undertaken; and art, science, Father’s hand, (John lo:29 ; ) and “He that keepeth Israel
invention, and every branch of education has flourished. And shall not slumber” (Psa. 121:4). If the salt loses its savor
yet the nations th;lk favored are not Christian nations; no, it will be because we abandon ths truth and turn unto fables,
thev have onlv been salted a little with the truths and Drin- and not because God fails to supply it to his saints with
cipies of Christianity, though they do not realize from whence abundant and convincing proof. R. W.

THE only perfect friendship subsists among those who friends for their virtue, love them for what is not a temporary
resemble each other in virtue, because those who love their appendage, but a permanent essential in their character.
C6341
 ST. JOHN, THE AGED
I’m growing very old. This weary head Have long prepared the cheerful evening meal.
That hath so often leaned on Jesus’ breast, Come. James. the Master waits: and Peter, see
In days long past that seem almost a dream, Has ione some steps before.
Is bent and hoarv with its weight of years. What say you friends ?
These limbs have” followed HimLmy I%aster-oft That this is Ephesus, and Christ has gone
From Galilee to Judea ! yea, that stood Back to the heavenly kingdom! Ay, ‘tis so, ‘tis SO,
Beneath the cross and trembled with His groans, I know it all; and yet, just now, I seemed
Refuse to bear me even through the streets To stand once more upon my native hills,
To preach unto my children. E’en my lips And touch my Master. 0, how oft I’ve seen
Refuse to form the words my heart sends forth. The touching of His garments bring back strength
My ears are dull, they scarcely hear the sobs To palsied limbs ! I feel it has to mine.
Of my dear children gathered round my couch: Up ! bear me once more to my flock ! Once more
God lays His hand upon me-yea, His hand, There let me tell them of the Saviour’s love;
And not His rod-the gentle hand that I For, by the sweetness of my Master’s voice
Felt those three years, so often pressed in mine, Just now. I think He must be verv near.
In friendship, such as passeth woman’s love. Coming, i trust, to break the vail,“which time
I’m old; so bld I can&t recollect Has worn so thin that I can see beyond,
The faces of my friends; and I forget And watch His footsteps.
The words and deeds that make up daily life; So, raise up my head.
But that dear face, and every word He spoke, How dark it is ! I cannot seem to see
Grow more distinct as others fade away, The faces of my flock. Is that the sea
So that I live with Him and holy deaa That murmurs so, or is it weeping? Hush,
More than with living. Mv little children. God so loved the world
Some seventy years ago H;? gave His Son: So, love ye one another.
I was a Asher by the sacred sea. Lore God and man. Amen. Now bear me back
It was at sunset. How the tranquil tide My legacy unto an angry world is this.
Bathed dreamily the pebbles! How the light I feel my work is finished. Are the streets so full ?
Crept up the distant hills, and in its wake What, call the folk my name? The holy John;
Soft purple shadows wrapped the dewy fields! Nay, write me rather, Jesus Christ’s beloved,
And then He came and called me. Then I gazed And lover of my children.
For the first time, on that sweet face. These eyes Lay me down
From out of which, as from a window, shone Once more upon my couch, and open wide
Divinity, looked on my inmost soul, The eastern window. See. there comes a lieht
And Ii&ted it forever. Then His words Like that which broke up& my soul at eve,”
Broke “on the silence of my heart, and made When in the dreary isle of Patmos, Gabriel came
The whole world musical. The incarnate love And touched me. See, it grows!
Took hold of me and claimed me for its own. And hark! It is the song the ransomed sang
I followed in the twilight, holding fast Of glory to the Lamb! Hiw loud it sounds ! .
His mantle. And that unwritten one! Methinks mv soul
Oh, what holy walks we had Can join it now. But who are those iho crowd
Through harvest fields, and desolate, dreary wastes ! The shining way? Say!-joy! ‘tis the eleven,
And oftentimes He leaned upon my arm, With Peter first! How eaperlv he looks !
Wearied and wayworn, I was young and strong, How bright the smile on Jim&’ face !
And so upbore Him. Lord, now I am weak I am the last. Once more we are complete
And old, and feeble! Let me rest on Thee! To gather round the paschal feast. RIv nlace
So, put Thine arm around me. Closer still! Is n’ext my Master. 6, my Lord, my coid!
How strong Thou art! The twilight draws apace How brinht Thou art! and vet the verv same
Come let us leave these noisy streets and take I loved i”n Galilee. ‘Tis wor%h the h&red years
The path to Bethany; for Mary’s smile To feel this bliss ! So lift me up, dear Lord,
Awaits us at the gate, and Martha’s hands Unto Thy bosom. There shall I abide.--SeZ.

FELLOWSHIP W ITH THE FATHER

There is a story of a young man who, having some financial What do angels say when they see a weak, helpless, sinful,
scheme which required a large amount of capital, called on fallen mortal taken into fellowshin with their Master. and
a very wealthy banker to interest him in the enterprise. He walking with him along earth’s desirt way? So Enoch Galked
declined to advance the funds that were needed for the under- with God many hundred years ago. Men knew him as one who
taking, but promised to put him in a way to get them; and lived a hidden, secret life, whose mystery they could not pene-
so, taking his arm they walked once or twice up and trate; the demons of darkness knew him as one clothedinarmor
down the Exchange, conversing with him as they went. When which they could not pierce, and defended by One into whose
they returned, he told him he could go among the bankers presence they dared not intrude; but the angels knew him as
and get what he wanted. The young man found that the a man who walked with God, and were not surprised when at
statement was true. The very fact of his being seen with that last “he was not, for God took him.”
wealthy man gave him all the credit he wanted. To such fellowship and intimacy as this, Christians arc
It is thus when men walk with men. The world is quick called. We are invited to draw nigh to God, and have fel-
to see and draw inferences from our associations. But what lowship with him, to maintain such-intimacy .that the world
must it be for a man to walk with God? shall know that we have been with Jesus.--Selected.

THE times are critical, not here alone, but all over the ly menacing the solidity of all established institutions. Even
world. Prospering in purely material interests, as I fully be- that great conviction, ever cherished as the apple of your eye.
lieve the people at large have never done before, the elements and which is really the rock upon which our political edifice
to bring on the gravest moral changes are simultaneously at rests, the durability of representative government, bids fair to
work everywhere. The problems now lavishly presented for be, sooner or later, drawn into question on solid grounds. The
agitation touch the very foundation of religious faith, of collision between the forces of associated capital and tho?e of
moral philosophy, of civil government, and even of human so- associated labor is likely to make itself felt throughout of
ciety. New forms of power are developing themselves, serious- the wide extent of human civilization.-Charles F. Adams.

“Another indication of the conscious weakness, and ap- for the purpose of public discussion and advocacy of what it
prehension of danger in the nominal church, is seen in the terms “Christian Socialism.” The term is misleading, for the
effort of the High Church section of the Established Church of only true Christian Socialism is that union of Christian Be-
England to ingratiate itself with the leading disciples of lievers in love and good works, and natural help and sym-
British Socialism-doubtless desiring to hold the guiding pathy, taught and enforced by the Word of God, upon the
reins of what it astutely imagines to be the force of the fu- basis of union with Christ. This, however, is very different
ture. To this end a series of meetings has been organized in from what is meant by the two parties it seeks to bring into
London, under the auspices of the English Church Union, alliance.“--Rib& Ntnndard.
16351 (Z-3)
 THE SPIRITUAL LAW
The Law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.-Ron{. 7: 14.
The ideas asso(*iatrd with the words carnal, natural and fect law and man as he is-under sin. Not that man, as
spiritual are various and generally confused. And before de- originallv created in the image of God, was at variance with
fining the above Scripture let us glance briefly at the mean- the- law “of God and unable &I keep it; but that, having lost
~np and scope of thcsc words. much of God’s image in the fall, and having become depraved
7V’trf1c~n1 signifies acbcording to nature. Nature has two through sin, he is unable to keep the Law now, because he is
principal dcfinltions-“The sum of qualities and attributes carnal-sold under sin.
which make a thing what it is as distinct from others”; also, The perfect man of God’s creation-Adam-had the full
“the regular course of things, the usual order of events.“- range of mental and moral faculties which constituted him
Wthsto. The first of these is the primary or strict nieaning Gor& image, but of practical knowledge he of course had none,
of the word. but from custom the latter is generally under- the design of the Creator being that His (God’s) knowledge
sfnml :1nd 11sed. should be accessible to the man. And so long as Adam was con-
U-in; the word nnt~rral in connection with mankind in its tent to follow his Maker’s instructions perfectly, that is, to be
primary ~nse. the strict meaning of the expression, the Izat- controlled by God’s spirit, or mind, or will, so long he pros-
I/WI! mn,l. would be a man possessed of the sum of qualities pered and was happy. The fall was occasioned by his leaning
and attributes wh~rh belong to human nature, i. e., a perfect to his own understanding or judgment, which, from lack of
,trn,r According to this strict definition, there is not a nat- experience, was defective.
ural man living in the world today; for there is not one who Losing the mind or spirit of God, he not only was con-
po~e~es in perfect measure all the qualities and attributes demned by the Law of God, which represents or expresses
which belong to human nature. But the general use of the God’s mind, but the race soon began to lose even that per-
word natural, would define the expression. “the natural man,” fection of organism and mental balance, which at first enabled
thus: a man in harmony with the regdar, course of things, Adam to see’ and appreciate things from the standpoint of
and after the usual order of mankind as it exists at present, the Creator. Hence it is said that the mind which men now
which Scripture asserts is a fallen or depraved condition, and have is oar&---made up according to their earthly circum-
not the condition which belonged to, and was enjoyed by, the stances and surroundings-and not the mind of God.
first of the race. OUR NEW MIND
The word spiritual
. . is used in two ways also. The strict or Believers in Christ, who realize through his sacrifice the
pi-Imary meanmg is, “Consisting of spirit-a spiritual sub- forgiveness of sins, are exhorted to make a full surrender of
stance or being.” A secondary meaning, and the one gener- their will (which in all, is carnal) to the will of God: that
allv used is. “Pertaining to the intellectual and higher en- is, to cease to look at matters from the depraved standpoint,
do&nents of the mind-& influenced by the spirit, c&trolled and to use every effort to look at things from God’s stand-
and in+red hy the Divine Spirit.” According to the primary
meaning of the word, to become spiritual would be to become point. This is- a much more difficult-matter for us now,
than it was for Adam, because of the bent whirh sin has
a spiritual substance or being. According to the second defi- given ua constitutionally, which is offset to some extent by our
nition, it would be to have the intellect under the guidance knowledge of the circumstances as revealed in God’s Word.
of God’s spirit. As we may become acquainted with the mind or spirit of
The expression, “the law is spiritual,” cannot be under- our fellow creatures by attention to their words, so God has
stood accordine to the first definition-the law is not a sDirit- given us His Word that thereby those who desire to do so,
ual being-but according to the second. The Law app&ls to may ascertain his mind or spirit. If we consecrate ourselves
the intellectual or higher endowments of men and represents fully, and ignore our own will, to accept of God’s will, then
the Divine mind or spirit. we are said to be spiritually minded. Then we stand in pre-
In answer, then, to the question: “Can a natural man ciselv the position which Adam occupied before disobedience
keep a spiritual law?” we answer, It depends upon what you --co&trolled by the mind of God. “Tb be carnally minded 18
mean bv‘a natural man. If you use nahral according to -the death. [to be controlled bv anv other will than God’s will.
second ‘definition, vour auestion would in substance be. Van brings &tress, misery, tro<ble,“and eventually death, accord:
a man after the ‘u&al o;der of men [fallen and imperfect] as ing ‘to the perfect aid unalterable law of dod] ; but to be
we zee them about us today, keep the Law of God which is snirituallv minded is life and neace.” (Ram. 8:6.) To have
cpiritual and reDresents his Derfect will? And our answer to L mind <n perfect harl$ony w&h that’which is perfect and
thic question would be, No: the race has become imperfect which is working all things according to the counsel of his own
in mind and in bodv. and has lost the oripinal likeness to
‘<
will, is the way not only to insure peace and happiness, but
such an extent that it is impossible for the; either to fully the only way to insure everlasting life: for God declares that
appreciate that law, or to keep it. “There is none righteous; all whd will-not be subject to his-perfect ~111 or law, may not
no, not one.” live forever. since such lives would be an iniurv. both to them-
But if the question be changed so as to give the word selves and bthers.
., “,

untural its primary meaning, it in substance would be:

“Could a man Dossessinn all the clualities and attributes which THE SPIRITUAL MIND TO BE BESTORED TO MANKIND
BELONG to the kuman &ture kee’p a spiritual law?” To this Since this condition of spiritual nhdedness WBR one of the
question we would say, Yes: God made man in his own image things lost bv mankind in the fall. it would surelv be one
[endowed with like mental and moral qualities, though of less of tee thinas”restored to men bv thk Redeemer and”Restorer
scope] for the very purpose of having him able to appreciate in the times of restitution of ali things. Mankind may again
his law-which is spiritual, or which represents his mind. It come into God’s likeness. and beine freed from sin bv the Re-
is in this particular that man differs from, and is superior deemer, will in due time be freed-from the carnal knd, (of
to the lower animals. He was made capable of appreciating opposition to God,) which is the result of sin.
fully the will of his Creator This is expressed forcibly by the prophet, who says of the
#Sin and its consequences have warped and twisted man’s work of the Times of Restitution: “I will take away the
intellect and judgment b,v which he was intended to appre- stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of
hcnd God’s dealings and laws, to such an extent, that now, flesh.” That is: I will remove the calloused and deDraved
with somewhat perverted judgment, he, in his present fallen elements of disposition-your carnal mind-and give *you a
state, is unable oftrn to discern the righteousness of God’s mind such as you should have as men, such as belongs to per-
rulings, and cannot ever fully keep the requirements of His fect manhood, a heart of flesh. Again: “I will put my spirit
perfect law. within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye
This agrees with Paul’s argument in the connection in shall keep my judgments and do them.” “After those days,
which this test ocrur$. He reasons that the Law was iust saith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and
and good- in fart, was spiritua1, or represented the mind or write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall
jud,gment of the perfect Creator, hence, could not be wrong; be my people.” (Ezek. 38 :26, 27, and Jer. 31:33, 34.)
and since he and others by nature (second meaning, i. e., in Again it is stated:
in the condition usual or common to all) were out of har- “ft shall come to pass AFTERWARD, that I will pour out my
mony with that IJaw, and were condemned by it, it proved spirit upon all flesh.” [After the Gospel age is ended, the
that they were imperfect and sinful. He then explains how spiritual mind is to be restored to all flesh, during the Mil-
it romcS that man iq out of harmony with the perfect law, lennial reign.] “And in those days I will pour out my spirit
saying. “I am carnal, [have a fEe.~hZy mind, or a mind con- uDon the servants and uDon the handmaidens.” (Joel 2:28.
formed to the ordinary or depraved course of this world], 26,) [During the Gospel ige none can receive God’s spirit er:
bold under sin”--hold by the fir& Adam, for a momentary cept they first become his servants by consecration, while in
gratification, into slavery to sin and its train of consequent the next age, the carnal mind being removed by the process
evils. twmlnatinp in death. of restoration, the acquirement of the mind of the spirit will
This is the reason that a variance exists between the per- be without difficulty.]
(3) C6361
JULY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (3 4)

THE SAME SPIRIT PRODUCES DIFFERENT RESULTS to molest or make them afraid. The Scripture will he ful-
UNDER DIFFERENT CIROUMSTANUES filled: “In His day the rigltteous [right-doer-those possess-
ing God’s Spirit] shall flourish.” Whereas, now, ‘Who-
Since, then, the Spirit of God is one Spirit and is to be soever will live Godly [according to the Spirit of God]
in the world in the next ape. as it is in the Church in this shall suffer persecution.”
age, then question arises, W % ’ it not produce the same effects Thus we easily and quickly show that the poqqession
in them (the world) that it now produces in the Church, of the Spirit of God would have different effects accord-
and will not the results be the same? if the possession of the ing to the circumstances-one time necessitating and pro-
Spirit by the world gives evidence as with Adam, of perfect ducing suffering, sacrifice and dishonor, and at another the
MANHOOD, does it not indicate that the highest aspirations of veru reverse, blessing and honor.
the Church under the same Spirit should be perfect MANHOOD? It only iemains -for us to show from Scripture, that
or, on the other hand, if the hope is well founded that the different rewards result from the possession of and obedience
Church through the possession of the Spirit and as a result to the Spirit of God, which we now proceed to do briefly.
of it. becomes changed from human to SPIBITUAL NATUBE (a When the difference of circumstances is kent in mind-
spiritual body a s will as mind), does it not prove that if the the favorable circumstances of those in the comfng age, when
world comes under the influence of the same Spirit the result Satan and evil are bound, and blindness, ignorance, and
will be the same to them? depravity, are being removed, and when the full knowledge
From a surface view one might answer, Yes. But we of the Lord is flooding the earth as the waters cover the
think we can give the best of lo&al, as well as Scriptural sea, and the unfavorable circumstances of the present age,
reasons for answering, No, the possession of the same Spirit or when Satan uses his blinding arts and ensnarements, when
mind will not lead to exactly the same results because of the we must walk by faith and not by sight, when to hare and
difference of circumstances during the two ages. The same exercise the Spirit of God demands self-crucifixion, self-
Spirit, or mind of God, under the same circumstances, would denial, dishonor and adversity, are kept in mind, who can
produce the same results, but under opposite circumstances wonder that God has provided “some better thing for us” than
would produce different results. for the world in general. (Heb. 11:40.) Not that the
The mind of God is always in harmony with justice and world’s portion will not be good, yea PERFECT, but that
love, henre if we possess that Spirit now, during “this present our portion will be better inasmuch as it will be a per-
evil world.” while in contact with sorrow, trouble, vain, in- fection on a higher plane of existence than the human, even
justice, etc., WC must of necessity oppose them, and-use- our a partaking of the divine nature. (2 Pet. 1:4.) Do you ques-
influence against them, and this Spirit of God will lead us not tion how both could be PEBFECT yet one better than the
only to sympathize, but to sacrifice, in our endeavor to bless other? Let us illustrate: When Jesus was “made so much
and alleviate. As the apostles saw the dreary darkness of BETTEB than the angels,” think you that it implies that
those about them, and knew the joy and comfort and peace they are degraded or imperfect? Nay, every creation of God in
of heart it would give them to know of a Ransom by Jesus its perfection is very good, though there are various orders or
and a coming blessing upon all through him, they sacrificed kinds, and the perfection of each differs from the other. So
much to with the perfect man BESTORED to God’s image and controlled
“Tell the whole world the blessed tidings.” by his Spirit, he will still be “a little lower than the angels”
Because led of the same Spirit or mind of God which prompted in comparison, (Ps. 8:5,) while the glorified Church like her
the Father to send the only begotten that the world through Head and Lord will be “so much better than the angels,” in-
him might live, and which” inspired our Lord when he “gaie asmuch as with her Lord she becomes partaker of the dz-
himself a ransom for all,” therefore the apostle could exclaim vine nature, which, though no more perfect than angelic
even in the midst of tribulation, “Woe is unto me if I preach nature, both being perfect, is nevertheless superior as a
not the gospel.” (1 Car. 9:16.) Under the influence of that higher order of nature-above all.
Spirit he could take pleasure in nothing else. Possessed of The proof of a different reward for those who during this
that Spirit, his own comfort, ease, pleasure, honor or wealth Gospel Age suffer with Christ is briefly stated thus: 911 the
appeared aq loss and dross, to be gladly abandoned for the promises to Israel according to the flesh, and the world, which
nririleee of beine a co-worker with God. and ioininn his life they in figure represented (the priesthood excepted. who repre-
in saciifice to t& Master’s. And in proportioi as w”E possess sented the Church,) are earthly promises, adapted to perfect
the Spirit or mind of God, we will so view matters and so act, human beings, viz.: the land, fruitful fields. abundance of
so long as ignorance, blindness, trouble and sin exist. ;eT restoration, etc. (G en 13:14, 15; Euod. 20: 12; Micah
If the miseries, etc., of the present should continue during : .
the coming age. the Spirit of God would ever prompt in the The promises to the Church are the retTerse-n earth
same way to its alleviation, and the results would still be suffering, poverty, affliction, persecution, self-denial. and in the
sacrifice among all possessing the Spirit: but it will not be future, heavenly glory, honor, power and association with and
80. With the end of this age the predominance of evil will likeness to Christ Jesus. They have the privilege of not
cease; and with it the necessity and opportunity of suffering only suffering with him, but of sharing with him in the
by opposing it, will cease. The time of suffering will have restoration of mankind.
given place to the time of rejoicing and glory. Glory “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward
to God in the highest, glory to Christ and the Church, and in heaven.”
on earth peace and good will toward men, with naught

IS IT A CONTRADICTION?
“Ye shall see . . . . all the prophets in the kingdom of God.” (Luke 13:28.)
“But what went ye out for to see! A prophet? Pea, I Jewish age, so a spiritual Israel has been developing during
say unto you, and more than a prophet . . . . Verily, I say the Gospel age. (1 Cor. 10:18; Gal. 6:16.) The promist><
unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath to the former were of an earthly character, while the promiw.
not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding to the latter were “emceeding great” and “better promises” of
he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than a heavenly or spiritual character. So the kingdom of Got1
he.” (Matt. ll:Q-11.) which is to rule the earth in the.a.ge to come. is to consist
In the above Scripture we have what might appear to of an earthly, visible phase and a splrltual phase which is higher
many candid students a contradiction in Jesus’ teachings. The and invisible to men. And *Jesus affirms thitt the lrnbt one
Jews regarded John as a prophet, and Jesus agreed with them, in this higher phase, shall be greater than the prc:ltest 111
(“Yea,“) showing that he was not only a prophet, but the the visible, earthly phase of the kingdom.
greatest of them, in that he was the immediate forerunner of Paul shows us further that those who shall have part
the Messiah. And notwithstanding his teaching on another in the earthly kingdom shall partake of the earthly or hun~nn
occasion, that all the prophets, (which of course would in- nature, while those who have part in the heavenly or spiritual
elude John,) would be in the kingdom of God, he now states kingdom shall partake of the spiritual nature:-
that the least one in the kingdom would be greater than this “Some will say, How are the dead raisrd up 7 and with
greatest prophet. And this statement excludes John, as well what body do they come? . . . . God givrth it :I body na It
as the other prophets, entirely from the kingdom. hnth pleased him, and to every seed his own body . . . .
One of two things is certainly true-either this is a con- There is a natural [human1 body, and there is a +ritu>ll
tradiction, or else Jesus was speaking of the kingdom of body. . . . . As is the earthly, such are they also that are
God in two different senses. The latter we find to be the earthly; and as is the heavenly, such are thry also that are
the case, and so these statements prove to be harnionious. As heavenly.” (1 Cor. 15:3R-48.)
there was a fleshly house of Israel developed during the This esceeding great and precious pronli+c, the spil itnal
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 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

kingdom. was never made known until Jesus brought it to ual, and the two corresponding phases of the kingdom of
light,. (:! Tim. 1: 10,) and he as the head of that spiritual God, depends to a very great extent our ability to rightly
kingdom. \\a~ the forerunner of all that “little flock” who divide the word of truth. If we fail to discern this distinc-
shall Inherit it. It will be seen also that this high exaltation tion so clearly set forth in the Scriptures, we fail en-
of the few. is for the blessing of the many subjects of the tirely to discern the high calling of the saints of the
kIngdon’. Gospel age, and all necessity for this age, as distinguished
rpon the recognition of the two natures, human and spirit- from the next. MRS. C. T. R.

“THE MAN OF SIN”

A. J. GORDON.
In a recent lecture on the “man of sin” mentioned in by the Holy Spirit. This is the primary and literal usage
2 Thess. ii:3, we took the ground that the mysterious of the phrase, thus far employed in the New Testament.
power there foretold is that of the Papacy, springing up and And cati we believe it posiibie that in this passage in
holding sway in the Christian Church, alleging that this Thessalonions the Holv Snirit uses the exuression “the tem-
was the view strongly held by the Reformers, and by the ple of God,” with a” toially different mkaning from that
best expositors from their time onward. which it bears in every other instance in the Gospels and
An honored brother, the editor of The Truth, who is Epistles ? Is it credible that Paul in this place signifies the Jew-
strongly wedded to another view-vzz., that the words refer to ish temple, when in every other use his language clearly means
a future infidel, Bntichrist, sitting in the rebuilt Temple the body of the believer, or the Church of Christ? And
at Jerusalem-heard with astonishment that we used the this inquiry is especially pertinent when we remember that
following language, and wondered how any one laying claim Paul, in the same Epistle to the Corinthians, wherein he
to accurate scholarship, could make such an assertion: viz., five times calls the Church, individually and collectively,
“The Greek for ‘the temple of God’ in 2 Thessalonians “the temple of God,” has one clear reference to the Jewish
never, in a single instance elsewhere, means the literal Tem- Temple (1 Cor. 9: 13)) but in alluding to it employs a totally
ple, but is always applied to the Church of God, which temple different term, simply to h&on, the word constantly used by
be%?f?rs arc.” -We-&ed precisely these words, and are m&t Christ and his disciples of the Temple in Jerusalem.
alad to be called upon to reiterate and substantiate them. If, now, we turn to the Revel&ion, we find this term
Let us say at -the outset, that in interpreting difficult three times employed: “Him that overcometh will I make a
passages of -Scripture, we know of no s&e method of pillar in the temple of my God”’ (3:12) ; “And the temple
findine their meanincr exceDt to eive attention to the exact of God was opened in heaven,” ( 11: 19). By general con-
words-and phrases e~ploy&l, and-then to collate these with sent, these texts refer to the Church glorified, or the heavenlv
the same expressions in other parts of Scripture; and so, Jerusalem, and there need be no Gntrove&y about the&
by “comparing spiritual things with spiritual,” to find out The other passage is the eleventh chapter, first verse: “Rise,
the teaching of God. Those who hold loose views of in- measure the temple of God,” etc. This, our critic considers,
spiration, say that the thought is the main thing; and plainly points to the literal Temple at Jerusalem. But
that this phrase is equivalent to that Dhrase, nrovided it Alford holds that the naos tou Theo16 is here to be taken
contains tGe same general idea. We do iot ad&Z this. We symbolically, and that so taken the words ‘<can onlv bear
believe that the Bible is written “not in the words which one meaning, viz., the Church of the elect servants of God.”
man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Spirit teacheth:” With him agree the most eminent exDositors of the ADocalvDse. I “L I
and that the Spirit is infinitely accurate *in the use bf ancient an& modern, from Mede tb Elliot.
lanrruaize. Holding this in view. the internreter can move These citations exhaust the list of texts in which this
fo&arh with concdence; to him’ the words of Holy Scrip- inspired phrase occurs. Admit, if need be, that the last
ture are “nails fastened by the master of assemblies,” and one is doubtful, and can, therefore, throw no certain light
he can hang his expositions upon them without fear. upon the significance of the others; then, excepting this-as
Sow, in seeking to determine the character and seat of uncertain, the case would stand thus: First, that in applying
this mysterious “man of sin” predicted in Thessalonians, the phrase naos tou Theou in 2 Thessalonians to the Jewish
we use just this method, comparing the words here em- Temple, we give a name to that Temple which, in every
ployed to describe him with the same words used in other other determinable instance in the New Testament. belones
parts of Scripture. And we have the uttermost confidence to the Church of Christ, individual or corporate, bn earrh
that this will give us the true solution of the secret. Let or in heaven; and, secondly in so apply&g language we
IV+ seek to determine them. give a name to the Temple at Jerusalem which the insnired
I.-THE SEAT OF THE “MAN OF SIN.” writers of the New Tkstament, while making score’s of
“He, as God, titteth in the temple of God, showing him- ;Alu;ions to that Temple, never in a single instance, apply
self that he is God.” The Greek phrase here employed for Undoubtedly the Jerusalem Temple was and is called
“temple of God,” is “ton naon tou Theou.” Now, from “the ‘temple of God,” in popular phraseology; but we must
Matthew to Revelation this expression occurs seven times interpret by the Spirit’s language, not by the people’s lan-
only. The following are all the instances. guage. And so interpreting, we contend that to annlv thiu
1. “This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of inspired phrase as odr cri& and those of his sch&l “do to
God, and to hulld it in three days.” (Matt. 26:61.) the Hebrew Temple, is an instance of exegetical violence
2. “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and exactly like that of which they complain” in those who
tllat tbc Spirit of Got1 d\\ cllrth in you?” (1 Cor. 3: 16). take the Greek word for “leaven,” uniiormly meaning cor-
“If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God ruption in the New Testament, and make it siPnifv. as used in
de.koy.” (1 Cor. 3:17). the parable of Matthew 12:53, the gospel Tn %s diffusion
“For the temple of God is holy, which temple ye through society.
are.’ (1 Cor. 3:17). Thus we have measured “the temple” exegetically, as it
D.
- “And what agreement hath the temple of God with etands before us in this Epistle to the Thessalonians, and
Idols?” (2 Cor. 6:16.) it will be seen that we have not measured it “according to
6. “For ye are the temple of God, the living one.” (2 the measure of a man;” that we have not brought the nas-
Cor. 2:6). sage to the test of current phraseology, but” have tiied
7. “So that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, it by the rule and the plummet of the Spirit’s own words-
showing himself that he is God.” (2 Thess. 2:4). words employed, we believe, with more than human accuracy.
Of the first six of these passages, not one refers to the II.-THE ORIGIN OF TEE “MAN OF SIN”
*Jewish Temple, and, therefore, we believe that the seventh Led by our investigation thus far to look for the Evil
cannot. 011; critic qllotes the’ first indeed, as so referring; One in the Church of God, we find all the other language of
hut remembering that this was the language which Christ’s the prophecy pointing in the same direction.
enemies imputed to him, we have only to turn to his The first stage in the predicted development of the wicked
own words as recorded in John 2:19, to find the real meaning one is that of apostasy. Speaking of the return of Christ,
of what he uttered It is there said. “But this he snake Paul says, “For the day will not come except there come a
of thP temple of his body.” Thus ‘we see that Ch;int’s falling away first.” The Greek word for falling away is
mc’anlny corrrspondq exactly with that of Paul in his letter He apostasia-the apostasy. The word is very clear in its
to the Corinthians-the temple of God being the body of meaning, and, as used in Scripture, invariably signifies a
hellr~\rr;, lntllvidually and corporately, as “the habitation spiritual defection. The exact noun is employed once in the
of (God throllph the Spirit,” or, in other words, the Church New Testament, Acts 21:21, where Paul is charged with
of God, Including the Head and the members, as indwelt teaching the Jews apostasy from Moses by abandoning cir-
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cumcision. It would be impossible to And a word to describe of open denial, but of false profession-exactly that which
more accurately the beginnings of the Papacy, which con- Paul warns against when setting forth the duties of a
sisted in a forsaking of the simple faith and worship of bishop, in his epistle to Titus, admonishing him of such
primitive Christianity for Jewish rites and Pagan ceremonies. as “give heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of
In 1 Tim. 4: 1 we have the same word in its verb form: men that turn from the truth, who profess that they know
“But the Spirit saith expressly, that in later times some God, hut in their works deny him.”
shall fall awaz/ from the faith” (R. V.) This refers not Was Judas grasping for the temporal power of Chrict
to the very 1% times, but “to ‘the times subsequent to in delivering him ;p ?- Did he hope thus- to bring 011 a
those in which the Apostle was writing.” (See Alford.) crisis. and force the Lord to assert his kingship, and set
And when we note the salient features of this predicted up those thrones which he has promised to- his disciples,
falling away-“giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines as sharers with him in his reign? Here we have no inti-
of demons; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their con- mation of Scripture, and can therefore express no opinion.
science seared with a hot iron: forbiddang to marry, and com- But remembering that Satan has now entered into Judas,
manding to abstain from mea&,” etc.-it requires no stretch and that he was acting under his inspiration, this would
of ingenuity to discover in them the great outlines of not be an improbable conjecture: for this was exactly the
the Roman apostasy. And remembering that “the apos- temptation which the Devil set before Christ as he was
tasy” is antecedent to the revelation of the “man of entering upon his public ministry-the temptation to pre-
sin,” preparing his way, and furnishing the condi- maturely grasp his temporal power. “The Devil taketh Him
tion out of which he emerges, we feel sure that we are on into an exceedingly high mountain, and showeth Him all
the right trail in finding the realization of this in the early the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; and
corruntion of the Anostolic faith. No blatant infidelity he said unto Him, All these things will I give thee if
assailing the Church f;om without, no development of Jewish thou wilt fall down and worship me.” These kingdoms
Antichristianism, can at all answer to the language. It is were Christ’s by the Father’s promise, but not yet. There
evidently a spiritual defection, the germs of which were must first be the cross, and the rejection by the world.
already planting in secret, and which in later times were to “The sufferings of Christ and the glory that should fol-
appear in a manifest lapse from the faith. Thus, as a rigid low,” is the divine order both for the Lord and for his
verbal examination of the Dronhecv gives us the Church mystical body. “Fear not, little flock,” he says; “it is your
of Christ as the seat of the “man of sin,” so the same Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” But to
method points, we believe, unerringly, to the Church of be content to be a little flock in this dispensation, waiting
Christ as the place of his origin and development. Let us the Father’s good pleasure to give us the kingdom in the
consider further :- next, to accept our present calling of preaching the gospel,
in order to gather out “a people for his name,’ and patiently
111.-THE PERSON OF THE “MAN OF SIN" to wait till the Millennium for the universal conquest of
He is called the “man of sin,” and this expression is the gospel-this has ever been the severest test of the
qualified by another, “the son of perdition.” Church’s faith. And the constant problem has been to find
As before, we search the Scriptures to learn what use some way of breaking over the bounds of this divine election.
the Spirit has elsewhere made of this phrase, and we find The Ritualist, by his sacrament, would bring all into the
it employed in only a single other instancfohn 17.12, where Church, without regard to a regenerated heart; the Broad
it is applied to Judas Iscariot. But how suggestive again Churchman, by a godless catholicity, would include the
of the character of an apostate, for which we have already Greek and Roman apostacies, the Rationalistic schools, and
been led to look ! Judas was a minister of Christ before the Brahma Somaj in one comprehensive Church; and the
he became revealed as the “son of uerdition.” He was not Evangelical, by his sincere assurance of “the conversion of
an infidel, denying Christ, but an apostle confessing Christ, the world,” would prove bv his computations that only a
to the very end. He communed at his table while med- brief time- is require^d before every one- will become Christian
itating his betrayal; he saluted him with “Hail, Master,” under the nreachinn of the Gosnel. What are all these
just at the moment he gave him the traitorous kiss. It is theories but-an unco&cious grasping after a present universal
not atheism, but hypocrisy, not the open iniquity that reviles dominion and glory for the Church?
the Lord. but the mvsterv of iniuuitv that confesses him Now, when “the Prince of this world” offered all the
while betraying him, “which we find in this typical person, kingdoms of the earth to Christ, he declined the gift. In-
whom the Holy Spirit sets before us to describe the pre- stead of receiving a present throne by yielding to the Evil
dicted “man of sin.” We said that he was an apostle: we One, He accepted a present cross and a present rejection, by
may add-what may startle the English reader of. the yielding to his Father. But what the Son of Man refused,
New Testament-that he was a bisholl. For not onlv does the Roman bishop, a few centuries after, accepted from
Peter say in the first chapter of the Acts, that “he was the “princes of this world” and from “the Prince of this
numbered with us, and had obtained part in this ministry,” world? At the price of the spiritual chastity of the Church,
and that one must be chosen “to take part in this ministry he received the temnoral Dower of the kings of the earth.
and apostleship from which Judas fell,” but he quotes the and that shout of I triumph, which belon& only to the
words, “which the Holy Spirit by the mouth of David Redeemer in his Millennial -glory, was taken-by the apostate
spake concerning Judas”--“His bishopric let alzother take.” Bishop of Rome as early as the third century-“The king-
Now, here is wisdom in a mystery. For who does not doms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord
know that the apostasy-the one before which all others and of his Christ.” This we believe to be the wicked one
in the historv I
of the Church pale into insinnificance- of whom Judas was the prototype-a bishon who, while
appeared when the Bishop of Rome and his su&essors be- communing with Christ, is consorting with the rulers of
gan to betray Christ while professing to serve him, pervert- this world. enriching himself with their silver and cold at
ing his doctrines and ordinances by mixing them with the price of crucifyyng the Son of God afresh, and putting
Pagan and Jewish corruption, while yet formulating and him to an open shame.--Tlte 1Valchword.
defending much of pure orthodoxy. It was not the apostasy

THOSE SIX QUESTIONS

It is now eighteen months since we proposed six pointed space ; and it has now completed the work, we presume.
doctrinnl questions to three contemporaries who were teach- to its own satisfaction.
ing that Jesus was not our substitute in his death. We The third contemporary contented itself with quoting
claimed that thev used the scriptural words, “Ransom,” extracts from the answers of the second. And from the
“Redeem,” “Bought with a price,” etc., unfairly, and put fact that it lzow seldom uses those texts which mention
upon them a private interpretation calculated to mislead Ransom, etc., and throws discredit upon the inspiration of
some who were not well acquainted with the true meaning all the statements of the New Testament, we infer that it
of these English words, or the Greek words which they would no longer consider it necessary to answer, or to attempt
translate. We suggested then that the full answer of these to harmonize any of these with other New Testament state-
six questions would show to all just what our contemporaries ments. This we”certainly think the more reasonable method
did believe on the subject. of dealing with the subject. Either give words their proper
One of these journals stated that the questions would import, or deny that thev are inspired, and therebv take
be answered in due time, but has not yet answered them. from them all weight by claiming that the writers of these
Another (The Yillenarian) proposed to answer in a year scrintures had mistaken ideas on the value of Jesus’ death.
these questions, which a babe in Christ could be able to We have some quotations from “The Afillcnaria~l’s” answers
answer pointedly and scripturally at once and in brief to these questions.
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In answer to the question, “W h y did Jesus die?” it says: tree,” (1 Pet. 2 :24,) are we to learn that our sins leeallv
“W h e n this question is viewed from a physical standpoint, and literally were transferred from us to him as is geneyalli
and we see Jesus exposed to crucifixion upon the cross, supposed? Or are we to learn that as a son and us a
we sre ready to decide at once that his [physical] system descendant of Adam he bore our sinful nature-the Adrtmic
WRS not such as could long survive-deatit was &e&table. nature-upon the tree I”
This evidently was the case’ with Jesus; as mu& 80 as it Upon the above we offer no comment, but remind our
would have been by any other human being, or as it wae readers of an article in the January, ‘84, TOWEB, under the
the case with those crucified with him. caption, “HIMSELF TOOK OUR INFIRMITIES, AND BABE Ow
“It is claimed that Jesus had a life free from the SICKNESSES."
venaltv of death: . . . . that he could have resisted death
‘* Y I
In replying to the third question of the series, “How
wrth success, but gave his life for his brethren in this did Jesus put away sin by the sacrifice of himself?” (Heb.
sense.” [All italics are ours]. 9 : 26 ) , our contemporary says :
This shows that the writer appreciated the question at “This position [of Z. W. T.l assumes that for. or on
issue. It also shows that he was “ready at once to decide” account of Adam’s transgression, all humanity rests under
with the Jews on the outward appearances and AQAINST death. This we consider. without anv argument. aocevtina at
the testimony of Jesus’ words; for Jesus declared: “I lay once its claims. This position as&me; further, which” we
down mv life: . . . . No man taketh it from me, but I believe to be correct, that this death is not the mere act of
lay it down of ‘myself.,, (John 10:17, 18.) dying, . . . . but the state of death, as the penalty upon Adam
It continues : reads : ‘Dust thou art and unto dust shall thou return.’
“The great object of our Lord’s mission was to teach the Then the text under consideru;tion contemplates the putting
doctrine of a resurrection. . . . . See the necessity of his away of this condition. how IS this state of
own death and resurrection ao a proof of his doctrine.” “The death put away, borne away, or dldtted out? and to this work,
great object of the mission and death of Christ being to what relation does the sacrifice of Jesus sustain ? (Heb. 9 :26).
give the fullest PROOF OF A FUTUBE LIFE of retribution, in “To this first question no other reply can be made, than
order to supply the strongest motives to virtue.” it must be brought about bv a resurrection from the dead.
That Je&’ resurrection confirmed the promise of the To the second @restion- . : . . The sacrifice of Jesus was
resurrection of all, is true, but that the “object” of his death not commercial, and was not representative, but moral;
was to Drove to mankind the nossibility of a future life, is not therefore it was only a pattern to which persons or the
true, and can find not one text of Scripture to support it. world must conform.
The incongruity of such a view must be apparent to all “Peter wrote of this work as the blotting out of sins. . . . .
thinkers. If that was the object, does it not suggest a great He did not here refer to the blottine out or nutting
waste of effort on God’s part? .That result could have-been away of the act of sin, or the fact of sin”, . , . . but-to thi
as fullv accomnlished bv raising one of the Patriarchs or pemzlty of sin-the death state.”
Prophets from- the deid. Could not they, indeed, have In the above mark well how the writer m&states the
served such an object even better, in that they would have auestion in order to nrenare for the answer he wishes to
nresented the %roof” of a future life to millions who died force upon it. After pointing out the consequence of sin to
before Jesus &me. be death, and in this agreeing with us and with Scripture,
But the weakness and falsity of such an argument is he attemnts to exchanee in the mind of his reader the con-
&
made still more apparent by its quotations from Scripture sequence for the sin which produced it, by saying as above,
to sustain itself, as shown in the following extract from the “Then the text under consideration contemplates the putting
8ame article: away of this condition [death.] But how is this state of
“Hence the peculiar propriety of the Divine appointment death put away, &c. 1”
explained by St. Paul (1 ‘Car. -15:21) That sin;; by man This text says nothing about putting away death, not a
came death bv man should also come the resurrection of word : it treats of “nutting awag sin.” Of course, when
the head.,, ” sin ia put away or blotted -out, its consequence, death, will
There can be no question that such a Scripture used as be removed, a8 shown in OTHER Scriptures; but to remove
a proof that Jesus died to illustrate the resurrection doc- the consequence of sin would not be putting away or removal
trine is very “peculiar”; so much so, that we cannot see of the sin which produced those consequences. To illus-
how any reasonable mind could so use it. If Jesus merely trate : A man condemned as guilty, is imprisoned. If his
gave p;oof of the possibility of a resurrection, then Paul penalty be paid, his guilt atoned for, he may go free as
would be made to mean that Adam merelv vroved the Dossi- a consequence ; but the settlement of his guilt and the
bility of death. It would suit the theory if our contemporary freeing in consequence are entirely distinct: for suppose he
if Paul had said, Since by man death was proved, by man were to gain his freedom while still guilty, would he not
also the resurrection was proved. be liable-to re-imprisonment? So with the Great Judge.
What the Apostle declares, is, that by a man came death, His “condemnation nassed unon all men”-all are euiltv,
not an illustration of it, and that by a man came resurreo- and all are under ihe pen&y of that guilt-death.- But
tion-not an illustration of it, in one case more than the should any be released from the penalty of sin without their
other. In our oninion that is a miserable theorv which in guilt being canceled, they surely would be liable again to
sustaining itself; so blinds the intellect., that the meaning the penalty, if justice could reach them. However none
of so plain a Scripture could not be discerned; or else in could possibly escape. But “thanks be unto God for his
spite of intellect and reason, would prostitute Scripture and unspeakable gift “-“The Lamb of God which taketh away
distort the truth. the sin of the world”- for Christ died for our sins accord-
Is it not very “peculiar,” too, that all the sacrificial ing to the Scriptures, and “gave himself a ransom for all.”
types which pointed to Christ’s work, pointed to and illus- Thus our release is permanent and Anal, because it is legally
trated his death, and in no way illustrated his resurrection? accomplished by the cancelling beforehand of our guilt. In
Truly this is “peculiar,” if this writer’s theory is correct, a word, the release from death the penalty, is a CONSEQUENCR
that the very object of Jesus’ coming was to illustrate and of the release from guilt which caused it.
“prove” a resurrection. Does this writer conclude that Our contemnorarv having wrested this Scripture to mean
Jchorah was ignorant of the “object” and caused typical what it does hot say, pro;eeds to use it in’ its distorted
shadows to be made which illustrated the wrong thina? form, saying, “How is this state of death put away7” “To
W e suggest that he go slower, and learn from Bible statue- this work what relation does the sacrifice of Jesus sustain?’
ments and illustrations, that Jesus “made his soul an offering But even if its misstatement of the question were con-
for sin.” and “died for OUR SIRS.” sidered. it would demolish his answer: for if the sacrifice
Again we quote: of Jesus “was onlv a pattern” to which persons of ‘the
“That Jesus did not die in the room and in the stead world MUST conform,,, then one of two con&ions must be
of humanity, or in his death become a substitute for humanity true:*ither all “nersons” who lived before the vuttern das
I

in any sense, appears to us, in the light of observation and made, are lost in death forever, or else the sacrifice of Jesus
reason, to be a self-evident proposition, But in the minds as a pattern was entirely unnecessary.
of some the question may arise, why not upon this point W e now come to the question -answered last in the
appeal simply to Scripture and to Scriptural language in- Millenarian. and with which it concludes its answer to the
stead of to reason and observation? series. The question is number five in the list, viz:-In
“Our reply is that we are in doubt of the meaning of what way was Jesus “a propitiation for our sins?” (1
certain texts, and to reason and observation we must ap- Jno. 2:2 and 4:lO.)
peal to learn what they do signify. For instance, when it W e are at a loss for fitting words whereby to express
ir eaid that “He bore our sins in his own body on the our righteous indignation at the shameful deception attempted
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in the answer of this question. We say attempted, because “It occurs in the apostolic writings three times. We
we hope that at least some of the readers of that journal shall call attention to the first occurrence, and then from
were sufficiently critical to notice it. this one to the others.”
The ordinary King James’ version contains the word Thus in a manner well calculated to mislead the unsus-
propitiation three times; two of these are proper tranala- pecting, the writer starts out to discuss Rom. 3:25, saying:-
tions, and one is improper. “The word propitiation as it occurs here [our italics]
The Greek word hitasmos is correctly translated “propitia- is from the Greek word hitnsterion.”
tion.” It signifies-That which 8atiSfie8 or propitiates. It And does the writer omit entirely the statement of the
occurs onlv twice. (1 Jno. 2:2 and 4:lO.) different Greek words in the two other places that the word
The G;eek word 1 hilasterion rendered .“propitiation” in “propitiation” occurs -the very text which he pretends to be
Rom. 3:25, is not a good translation. It should rather have answering? He does; and the only reference to them is at
been rendered Provitiator?l. It signifies The COVEBINQ on the close of the article, where he says:
which propitiation* is acc~mptished- “All this prepares us for an easy comprehension of the
This Greek word occurs but one other time (Heb. 9 :5) other occurrences [of the word propitiation], so much SO
and is there more correctlv translated ‘Merck Sweat,” and that it is hardly necessary for us to write of them at all.”
refers to the golden lid whcch covered the Law, in the Ark, And he does not write of THEM at all. What perfidy
in the Tabernacle of the wilderness. (Ex. 26 :34.) which was is this, what deception and misleading, to attempt to con-
the propitiatory covering, in type-that on which satisfaction fuse the English reader who has no knowledge of the Greek,
was presented to God, and where, as a consequence mercy was by AN explanation of one word as a sample of a totally dif.
dispensed. Really, however, the word signifles no more a ferent one, and then, to make the deception complete, adding,
mercy-seat than a justice-seat; it was both. We here quote “this prepares us for an easy comprehension of the other
both the texts in which this word hitasterion occurs. occurrences.” Such treatment of Scripture is worthy of the
“The ark of the covenant covered around on everv side Church of Rome. All should be on their guard against a
with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, theory which needs to resort to such false statements for
and the rod of Aaron that sprouted, and the tables of the support.
covenant [Law] ; but over-above it the cherubim of glory It is truly wonderful-the lengths to which men will go
overshadowing the propitiatory.” (Heb. 9 : 5.) in support of this false doctrine-denying that the Lord
“Whom [Jesus] God set forth as a propitiutorg-covering bouaht them (2 Pet. 2: 1.)
through faith in his RLOOD.” (Rom. 3:25.) prom what we have above shown of the real meaning of
In-a ‘foot-note to the last ‘quotation of Scripture, Rother- these two words hilasmoo and hilasterion, we trust that all
ham says: “This complex idea we get partly from the may clearly see that Jesus was our “hil&teriolt” or propi-
word hitasterion itself, partlv (as used in the Beptuagint) tiatory covering (Rom. 3:25) ; that is to say, he is set forth
from its association in fiebrew legislation. The mind of an by Jehovah as the expression of his propitiousness (his favor)
Israelite would be carried back to the central word Kopher: in the forgiveness or covering of sins through faith in his
the living, covered, shielded, saved by the dying. Substitu- blood-faith in his sin-offering.
tion is there [i. e., suggested in the word]; appropriation And in order to be thus set forth as the one through
also, and acauittal-all emanating from the vrovitiouenesu
- - which Jehovah’s propitiousness is shown, it was necessary
of Jehovah.” * that he should first become our “hik&SmOS.” our substitute, the
Honine that all can clearlv see the distinctness and dif- sati8faction for our sins; and not for ‘ours only, but ‘also
ferenci or these two Greek wo;ds, and yet their relationship, for the sins of the whole world.
it becomes our duty to point out the deception attempted by In a word, then, “hitasmoa” refers to that part of
our contemporary. Jesus’ work which is finished, (the sacrifice of himself,) while
Our ouestion contained words from 1 Jno. 2:2 and 4: 10, “hi?,ostetio?&” refer9 to that work which result8 from the SRC-
which w&e in quotation marks. “A propitiation [satisfac: rifice. He now and ever will be the personal centre through
tion] for our sins,” and our contemporary started out with and from whom, Jehovah’s favor will be obtainable, because
the correct words. But after a roundabout reference to he became the [hitaamos] propitiation or satisfaction for our
popular opinions, he befogs his readers by saying of propi- sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole
tiation : world.

WE ANSWER FOR THEM

It will be remembered that when two months after our ingless and false. The prophets, who, because of their witness
questions were suggested, no answers were offered by our for and lovaltv to truth, were sawn asunder, stoned to death,
contemporaries, we answered them for them, from what we etc., and (he Apostles, who were crucified and beheaded, etc.,
believed to be their standpoint. It was then, however, thought these all were valiant for truth, and full of faith. and are all
bv some that we did not fairlv reDresent their views. So now good examples, and are so recognized in Scripture (Phil.
we repeat our answers FOR T-HEM’, putting them side by side 3:17). But where is it claimed that by their examples they
with our gleanings from the only one of the number which redeemed or ransomed or bought us with their blood?
even attemDted an answer. We hope vou will carefullv com- The penalty of our sin was death, and we could never have
pare. We-believe in a few words w’e did fully and-fairly been freed from that great prison-house-we could never have
represent their ideas on this subject. We quote from our issue had a resurrection to life had not some one done more than set
of April, 1883: us an example. The question would still be, “Oh, wretched
( 1) Why did Jesus die? man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this
Their answer : Because he was an imperfect malt, and hence death?” And the answer noints out onlv the one able to
as liable to death as any other member of the Adamic race, deliver from the condemnatibn of death. ;‘Thanks be to God
and death passed upon ail. (See Rom. 5 :12.) who giveth us the victory through OUT Lord Jesus Christ.”
We obiect and answer. that no cause of death was in him “For to this end Christ both died. rose and revived that he
--“in him’ was life” and not death. In him was no sin, hence might he Lord [master-or have authority over] the living
on him the punishment of sin-death-could have no -power. and the dead.” (1 Cor. 15:X’ and Rom. 14:9.) We answer
His death was a free-will sacrifice as our redemDtionI mice.
I He this auestion then: HE LURE OUR SINS in his own bodv on the
could have sustained life as a perfect and sinless man forever, tree”*(l Pet. 2:24).
but he “gave his life a ransom for many.” (3) How did Jesus put away sisl by the sacrifice of
Paul substantiates our nosition, saving: “Christ died for himself 1
our sins according to the S&iptures” (1 Ccbr. 15:3.) Their answer:-By his example nnd teaching he taught
(2) “How does Jesus’ death affect our sins ?” men to put away sin for tkcn~sctvcs, nnd thus, in a sense, it
Their answer : It has no direct effect upon our sins. We might be said that he put the sin away.
die for our own sins and thus pay our O&I penalty. Jesus -We object, that Moses and the prophets had taught men tc
died for himself and thus Daid for his imverfection fwhich abstain from sin: hence. if Jesus nut awav” sin onlv br nrecent
A

they do not care to openly c&l sin.) The in&& effect‘ of his and example, he ‘did no more than others. And, if i’t is tr&,
death was, that he furnished us an example, or illustration that “In him was no sttb,” how could he be an emmplr of
of fortitude and endurance, etc., and thus his death was valu- how to put away what he did not have? But note. the qucs-
able to us only as an example of how we should suffer and die tion is a quotation from Paul (Heb. !l:!?tl), and it rcnda that
for truth and right. he put away sin, not by precept and esample of his llfc. but
We object and answer, that while it is true that Jesus’ “bv the sac&ce of himself.” Read the connectIon and trv
life and death were valuable examples, yet they were more- to” view the ‘matter from the Apostle’s inspired standpoint,
much more than this, or else scores of Scriptures are mean- and unless you think, RS one of these contemporaries does,
I-41 16411
(6-V ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBUSGH, PA

that Paul often made mistakes and misquotations, you should As before pointed out, this denial of the ransom we be-
be convinced of his meaning when penning these words. lieve to be the great rock upon which the nominal Church
Remember, too, that when Moses, as a type of Jesus, taught is even today be&g dashed. *
men to abstain from sin, he, too, did more-he typically made The doctrine of the substitution of Jesus. in settlement of
a sin offering-a sacrifice for sin. And the antitype not only the sinner’s milt and punishment, is being ‘scoffed at among
taught purltyv: but did more-made himself a satifice for sin-- the “great preachers”; -and the doctrine, so plainly taught by
the true sacrifice-“ The Lamb of God which taketh away the the Anostles. that the death of Jesus was the mice of
rin of the world.” our rilease &om death, is falling into discredit ind dis-
( 4 ) In what way did he give “himself a ransom (Greek, repute among the “worldly great,” and hence also among
n,l t llutrcn-an equivalent or corresponding price) for all 7” some who would like to be of that class.
To this question they can give no answer except by denying The reason of this is evident: it is the story of the two
the meaning of the word, which any one may see, by reference to extremes over again. Satan had engrafted on the Church
Young’s concordance. The significance of the original is very the doctrine of eternal torment, and, to be consistent, led on to
pointed. Jesus not only gave a p&e for the ransom of the the thought that Jesus bore eternal torment for every man.
Adamic race, but Paul says he gave an equivalent price. A This involved eternity of suffering by Jesus. This evidently
perfect man had sinned and forfeited all right to life; Jesus, was untrue ; so it was explained, that when in Gethsemane
another perfect man, bought back those forfeited rights by giv- and at Calvary, Jesus suffered as much agony in a few hours
ing his unforfeited human existence a ransom-an equivalent as all humanity would have suffered in an eternity of torture.
price. Read now Paul’s argument (Rom. 5:18, 19) : “There- Now it does not take a very smart man to see that some-
fore, ae by the offense of one, judgment came upon all men thing is surely wrong in such a view of Jesus’ substitution.
to condemnation ; even so, by the righteousness of one, the [Either the penalty of sin is not eternuZ torture, or else Jesus
free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. For as was not man’s substitute. One or the other is wrong, for
by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the Jesus is not suffering eternal torment.] It seems to be Satan’s
obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” policy now to lead to the opposite extreme and deny substi-
(5) In what way was he “a propitiation (satisfaction) tution entirely.
for auf sins”? Instead of casting away Satan’s libel on our Heavenly
This is another question which they cannot answer. They Father’s government-the doctrine of eternal torment-most
would like to declare that he was not a satisfaction in this men seem to hold on to it, and roll it as a sweet morsel under
sense, or not a satisfaction in that sense, or not a satisfaction their tongues, and discard the teachings of the Apostles rela-
in some other sense; but the question, “In what sense was he tive to Jesus’ death being our ransom price-the price or
a “satisfaction for our sins?” they cannot answer. substitute for our forfeited lives.
[See above that the Millenarian did not answer this text, Would that all might see the beauties and harmonies of
but attempted to mislead its readers by substituting another.] God’s Word. Man condemned to deatlt--extinction : Jesus.
We answer. that this text is in nerf& harmonv with all man’s substitute or ransom, died for our sins and ihus re:
Scripture. Thk Law of life (obedienie) was broken”by Adam, deemed or bought us back to life, which redemption will be
and both he and his posterity were condemned as unfit for accomplished by a resurrection to life. Jesus, as a man, is
life. Jesus became our ransom by paying our death penalty, dead eternally; his humanity stayed in death as our ransom,
and thus justifying us to life, which in due time comes to and he arose-a new creature-a spiritual instead of a human
all, to be again-either accepted or rejected. Yes, we are glad being-put to death in the flesh, but quickened (made alive)
that the claims of the Law UDOII our race were fullv satisfied in spirit. “Though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet
by our Redeemer. now henceforth know we him (so) no more.”
(6) In what sense were we ‘bought with a pricef” Beloved. let us stand firm on the foundation of all hoDe-
Their answer : Bouaht is not a eood word: it onvevs too the ransom-and now, when the enemy comes in like a dood,
much of the “commercial idea;” th>y would ‘say, rather, Ye be not afraid to act and speak f&r truth boldly if you
were taken, etc. would be recoenized bv him who lifts UDI a standard for the
We object; by such false reasonings the Word of God peo le. (Isa. ti: 19.) ”
would be robbed of all its meaning. Words are useless un- E;ve ask now the question: Did we answer correctly for
less they carry some idea.. What %ther meaning is there in them, or are they able to answer these questions in as few
the word “boucht” than the “the commercial idea”? It has words differently? Or can they object to our answers,
no other mean& or idea in it. But Paul was a lawyer, and and taking each up singly, can they show that it is not their
his teachings, more than any other Apostle’s are hard to view plainly stated, so that all may understand?
twist: and in this instance he euards well his statements. But we must remember that one of our contemporaries,
by saying, not only that we were %cught,” but he says it was “The World’s Hope,” though it has never yet answered these
with a price;” and then, lest some one should claim that the questions as it proposed to do “in due time,” claimed that in
price was the ministry and teachings of Jesus. Peter is caused the above we had not presented its view fairly. On that ac-
to guard it by adding-‘ ‘With the precious ‘blood of Christ, count we published an article in which we made extracts from
as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot.” (1 Cor. its columns, and answered them, showing that it either used
6:20; 1 Pet. 1:19.) words in an improper sense, or else denied its own teachings.
In conclusion, let us say in a few words, what they do As we are repeating the answers, we repeat, in the article
think of the value and nreciousness of the death of Christ. below, our criticism of its denial, that our answers may be
They believe and have p&ately expressed and it is the covered seen to be entirely fair and applicable; and further, because
import of their public-teachings, which they do not yet wish the subject increases in importance as we see that in these
to state boldlv-not until thev aet false nremises and con- closing hours of the Gospel age, our adversary is using ever
clusions engrifted first, as a “basis on wh&h to place it,- effort to remove the faith of God’s children from the rot %
that Jesus’-death no more paid your ransom price than did foundation-the only foundation upon which any faith-build-
Paul’s or than my death would; nay, put it stronger, that ing can stand, without destruction, the storms of this Day of
his death was of 110 value in redeeming us. the Lord.

REPRESENTATION-SUBSTITUTION
[This article, excepting the paragraph below, was a reprint of that published in issue of May, 1883, which please see.1
The boldness of this form of INFIDELITY (which we con- enough. Thus, instead of ‘A man is not justified by the
sider more dangerous to the saints than that of Ingersoll) is works of the law”’ he puts, “A man is not justified by form-
strikingly shown by the followin clipped from an exchange: alistic piety.” “Without shedding of blood there is no re-
J~CSSRS. PUTSAM’S SONS, o f New York, have published mission,” gives place to ‘Without the the life completely
“The Sacred Scriptures of the World,” in which the author consecrated there is no remission.” The expurgated Bible is
omits what he calls “objectionable” and “unnecessary” parts said to be “designed for common use in pulpits and Sunday
of the Bible, retaining such as are worthy of use for devo- schools and homes,” but it is not likely to be accepted. The
tional and practical purposes. His alterations are hold author is the Rev. M. K. Schermerhorn.

“IT is easier to find a score of men wise enough to ap- “CUSTOM may lead a man into many errors, but it justifies
prehend the truth, than one intrepid enough to stand up for none.”
it in the face of opposition.”
C6421
 THE MOSAIC ECONOMY
“There never was a saner law than the Mosaic. It loved and most generous. Every man taken slave could in the sab-
nature, could not bear to see the fields impoverished, and de- batic year, regain his freedom, go forth a free man. Its laws,
creed that they should not be. It could not bear to see the too, of property, were noble laws. They made property sacred,
human form mutilated, and declared only the unblemished did not allow its accumulation into a few hands, or into one,
beautiful in the sight of God. It did not love to harass or but secured its fair and equal distribution. Every Jubilee
burden the dumb creation; the ox that trod out the corn was year the land was redistributed: the old families that had
not to be muzzled. The young, tender tree was protected, and lost it might again possess their inheritance. If by miefor-
was not unduly taxed to yield abundance. The law was full tune or by crime a man had lost his estate, he had a chance
of a great. sense of the good of nature, a great sense of the given to redeem himself and his place in the community, to
glory of humanity, and of the large and lovely harmony go back into his old and better order. Capital, also, was
without. . . . . There never was so careful a law about what carefully guarded, that it should not become an immense and
we call sanitation. It cared for the cleanliness of the body. oppressive power in the hand of the rich, to make them ex-
It feared infection, and separated those with infectious dis- tortionate over the poor. Jewish law is the jultest law to
eases from the great multitude, declaring them unclean. Its the poor yet framed, to the man that toiled, to the man pre-
laws and ceremonial uncleanliness had great health in them pared honestly by sweat and labor to earn his bread Do
-a real human sanity. Then, though it knew slavery, as all it justice. I ask for it from you only justice, but I do ask;
the ancient world did, the slavery it knew was the gentlest, and that is a just demand.“--gel.

THE THIRD DAY

BRETHREN IN CHRIST :-I find in the sixth chapter of pared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain;
Hosea a reason why Christ was resurrected on the third day. as the latter (or Spring) and former (or Fall) rain unto
Hosea says, ‘Come and let us return unto the Lord for he the earth.” So we have Christ’s first coming to redeem the
hath torn and he will heal us, he hath smitten and he will inheritance and prepare for his kingdom and call his saints,
bind us up; after two days, (two thousand year-days) will he and his second coming to claim his kingdom and restore
(God) revive US, in the third day, (Millennial day) he will lost man to his estate. How beautifully these prophecies
+&se us UP, and we shall live in. his sight.” Hosea 6: l-2. blend together showing us that there is a meaning in all that
Thus we see the two thousand of the Jew’s cast off con- Christ did and it seems glorious that God is willing to dis-
dition and the one thousand years of favor and resurrection, close some of these mysteries to us in this day. So may we
and it furnishes a reason why Christ arose on the third day. walk as to win the “prize of the high calling” of God. Re-
The 3tl verse explains still further-“Then shall we know, joice, brethren, rejoice! W. E. PABSONS.
if wc follow on to know the Lord; his going forth is pre-

THE FAVOR OF GOD

Let the conditions of the present Gospel Age, the beset- Our conclusion that the Gospel Age is one of superior
ment:; of Satan now permitted,ihe obstacles whiih-now hinder favor [grace] to any before or after iris abundantly proven
faith. and the sacrifices which are now demanded of all who to be God’s estimate by many Scriptures. We quote a few:
would now be overcomers as shown in the article-“Think it “I thank my God always on your behalf, for the GRACE
not strange” (See last issue) be CONTRASTED with the favor- of God which is given you through Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 1:
able onnortunities of the incomina Millennium. when the 4). “By whom also we have access by faith into TIIIS GRACE
obstnclb’9 to faith dhall be ouite Removed, when all shall wherein ule stand and rejoice” (Rom. 5 :2). God “hath saved
know the Lord, from the least to the greatest; when Satan’s us [from Adamic sin’ind its penalty through Jesus our pro-
newer shall be restrained. and when the reauirements of God pitiation] and called us with an holy calling, not according
will be no longer the s&rifice of things right and lawful, to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace”
but merely the‘ rejection of evil, with full liberty to u;e and (2 Tim. 1:9). “Of which salvation the prophets have en-
enjoy rrcrv blc~slng and privilege, then freely supplied to quired and searched diligently, who proph&i&d of the grclce
all. In view of the contrast some would exclaim: “How lfavorl that should come UNTO YOU." “Unto whom it was
fa~orn71Zc a tlmc the Millennial Age will be! How I wish revealed, that not unto themselves, but UNTO US they did
that I coultl hare lived then instead of now! Whv will minister the things which are now reported unto you by-them
that age be so much more gracious or favorable than the that have preached the Gospel unto you.” 1 Pet. 1: 10, 12.
Gospel-Age. if (;otl is no respecter of persons?” Seen in its true light then, the fact is that Jesus’ death
Well. such is a rcrv natural mistake. The fact is. how- was the equivalent or corresponding price” for Adam’s sin
ever, that the Gospel Age is the one of special FAVOR: The and penalty, and quite sufficient to legally effect the release
greatrst and grandest favor that ever has or ever will be of every member of the race. And the Millennium of blese-
offered to any of God’s creatures is held forth during this ing and the restoration of all mankind to that human per-
Goqprl -4pr. and closes with its close. While the advantages fection and being which they had lost through Adam, would
and opportunities of the next age are most favorable, the prize have at orIce commenced after Jcqus’ resurrection, but for
then obtn~nable is proportionately less valuable, though the the Gospel Age of SIYXIAI. F.4voR olIcrcc1 to bclicvers willing
prize offcrcd for obedience during the Millennial Age will to follow in Jesus’ footsteps of sarrifcc. They are reckoned
be areit and grand also: It will be glorious indeed to have as members of the world’s Redeemer and their sacrifice [made
everlasting existence, in perfection and happiness under God’s worthy and acceptnhlc first by his1 are accepted as parts of
approval and bleqsing. But the fact is, that the prize offered Jesus’ sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. ,lnd are
during the Cnspel Age to the sacrificing members of the RECROXD as filling up that which is behind of the afflictions
body of Christ. is exceedilrg great, exceedingly grand, infinzte- of Christ.
ly sublime. So much so, that in the estimation of all who This opportunity for sacrifice is a fni.or. bccausc of the
have truly realized its value, it is priceless, and would be great reward and high honor promised to .Ttuq which wc
cheap at any cost. It no less than to be made of the may share by reason of sharing in his sacrifice.
Diziie nature. and to share Divine honors and glories with Does some one suggest that the furor contained in the
our illustrous Head and forerunner. It was when contemnlat- privilcgc of sugering and sacrificing with Christ map pcrhnps
ing the ExCEEDING great and precious promises, held’~out be continurd, and thus all come to the snmc dirinc nature
during the Gospel Age, and the EXCEEDING riches of God’s and honor 1 We nnqwer, No. This would bc un~cripturnl
grace [favor] in his loving-kindness toward US through Christ as well as unreasonable. Whrrcin wonld cnnsl<t the spec-
Jesus, that the Apostle to the Gentiles, looking at its cost. in ial favor of the Gospel Age unless it be as WP have shown. a
trials, besctmenti, burdens, sacrifices- and sifferings, said: call to and opportunity for gaining a “high cnllrng” a
I do count them but loss and dross. and shall reioice if bv “hcavcnly calling,” not otherwise obtainable?
any n%en%s [at any cost-any sacrifice1 I may &in -Chrisi Then, too, if the body of Christ “f77s UP” the measure
and be found in hi&-if I may be a member in”that BODY OF of the afflictions of the anointed. how could thtrc be :rnr tn
CHRIST which is to be so hiehlv exalted and honored in God’s fiZZ UP in a succeeding age? And if the sncrifice for sins is
due time. Phil. 3:7-14. U ” complete. and its mrasurc filled up by the Gospel Church.
So then, in this as in the ordinary affairs of life, an what occasion and what opportunity could thcrc bc for snc-
article which costs far more may be a more favorable bargain rificing any in the Millennial Age? Further. UC know that
than one costing less, though it be a favorable bargain also. had there not been sin in the world. and had it not had
Not only the cost, but the things obtained therefore, must be Ziberty to flourish, it would, have bcrn impo~siblc for either
considered, when we decide which is the more favorable thing. Jesus or his followers to have sacrificed. since there could
C6431
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PrTrssuRcFt, PA.

hare been no opportunity. Hence also, to have sacrifices for will have ended, and the glory which was to follow [the end
sins during any coming age, would imply that evil must of his sufferings] shall have commenced. See 1 Pet. 1:ll.
then be in control. as well as that the sacrifices of Christ Yes, though now the world esteem us as it did our Head,
head and body were not a sufficient ransom. The fact every- “stricken, smitten of God and afflicted,” and not favored, yet
where cypressed in Scripture is contrary to this; Christ shall the time is coming when of both head and body it shall be
reign and the wicked qhall no longer have Ziberttl to insult, recognized as true, that the Christ was smitten for the
b&et. malign and crurify the righteous. Sat& shall be world’s iniquities, and that the price of the world’s salvation
bound-restrained-harr no power. Christ shall have all was exacted of him, when throughout coming age8 God shall
powtar. and in his dap the righteous shall fiouris~ instead of display, and men and angels shall recognize-“The emceeding
being sacrifices ; and the wicked shall be cut off, instead of riches of his grace, in his loving-kindness toward US through
prospering in wickedness. -411, yes! the sufferings of Christ Christ Jesus.”

READING THE BIBLE

The late Dr. Maitland, in an ingenious essay on Impear- No one who has not tried the experiment can imagine
ments to the rirht understanding of the Scrinture. intro- what a flood of light falls upon a Pauline Epistle when it ie
duces a man of b%siness. who, wit< a sort of sel<satisfaction, read thtiugh at one sithag, with quickened attention to its
apologizes for his own .shortcomings, thus: “I am a plain scope and purpose. In no other way can we perceive its
Christian. worried with the cares of mv business and family. lights and shadows, its tone and perspective, or get above the
and glad to catch half an hour to read my Bible. I mu& ol;k-sided interpretations which are continually-thrust upon
make the most of it. I must employ the little leisure I can us. And that which is true of the EDistles is true also in
snatch at intervals in devotional reading,v. and mvI obiect ” must relation to other parts of the Divine kecord.
be my own edification.” Instead of treating Scripture in this way-supplicating the
The reply made to him is: “To be sure you must read for Holv Snirit for a right state of heart. and in harmony with
your edification, but what is the distinction which you that &pplication &uggling manfull$ against impuises of
seem to draw between reading for your edification and read- prejudice and pride-too many never read the Bible at all,
ing with a view to learn all that God offers to teach?” excepting under the limitations of chapter and verse; and
He answers : “Why, I mean that I must read the Scrip- thus; fo; the most part, with an utter hisregard of the con-
tures with application to myself, to my own chcwnstances, nection subsistine between that which thev omit. Praver for
to my own s&. If I come -to i part which I do not under- Divine light see& to such persons all th& is required” in or-
stand, I have not time and learning to investigate its mean- der to arrive at truth, however idle, or uncandid, or bigoted
ing; and when I attempt it I often-find that tYhe time which they may be.
should have been employed in devotion has been wasted in In relation to private reading of the Word, we say deliber-
turning over commentators, from whom, after all, I get, per- atelv that. if we would be honest before God. if we would
haps, no satisfaction as to the real meaning of the passage, shri*nk fro& sacrificing a true thought, in order’to gain there-
though some of the more pious and practical among them may by the use of mere word8 in favor of some doctrine or prac-
assist me in applying it to myself. Now, if I do not thus tice to which they were never intended to apply, we shall
derive a personal application to myself, what use is there in feel that nothing can justify the use of any portion of God’s
my reading such a portion of Scripture at all?” Word apart from the- consideration of the context, or in a
“The reioinder which follows-and it expresses the one sense different from that which it bears in the IDortion of the
great lesson we are anxious to impress-is this: “To speak record from which it is taken.
Dlainlv. I do not know that with vour ideas there is much It is this carelessness about the Truth in the application
;se 6’ your reading such a part “of Scripture, because, as of Scripture that has made “the fathers,” with all their elo-
soon as you hare found that you cannot understand it, or quence and piety, such untrustworthy interpreters. It is this
make it apply to yourself as it stands, you set to work to which compels us, in perusing their writings, to pause and
make some meaning which vou do not yourself believe to be doubt, since passing events, party interests or the hope of
the real meaning. and to fetch out somk doctrine or precept polemical triumphs were to them a continual excuse for the
which the text does not contain: and this habit is so Dre- most outrageous violations of the original meaning of the in-
judicial that I believe it would be better for you only to &ad spired volume.
such parts as you cannot doubt do really apply to four own Hence it is that patristic writers so often support a great
circumstances. It is not likelv that YOU will reaD any benefit cause “in a sDirit alien to its own.” sometimes adoDtine ar-
from reading the rest of the “Script&es sufficieni to -counter- guments that ‘are unchristian in their ultimate grounds ; s”ome-
balance the injury which must arise from the habit of setting times resting upon errors the refutation of errors; and some-
aside all inquirv as to the real meaning of the Word of God, times drawing upon the armories of darkness for weapons
and fancying that any imaginations auf your own are more that, to be durable, ought to have been of celestial temper;
profitable than the mind of the Spirit.” now, it may be, trespassing against affections which furnish to
If this method of treatinnr Scripture, so graphically de- Christianity its moving powers; and now aminst truths which
scribed, be common, and we fear it is, we ma? c&se to-won- furnish to -Christianity ‘Its guiding lights. - On behalf of God,
der that so much of God’s Word is unintelligible to the pen- thev often seem determined to be wiser than God: and in
era1 reader. Any book, thus handled, must” necessarily”be- de&onstration of spiritual power, they do not scruple to ad-
come so; for, the moment we allow ourselves to read with vance doctrines which the Scriptures have nowhere warranted.
any other aim than to understand the meaning of the writer, The issue of it all was--THE ROMISH APOSTACY.
we darken that which is before us so thoroughly that it is Extravagance in the use of Scripture must eventually lead
all but hopeless to expect it can ever become clear. either to ignorant credulity or to universal skepticism.
In reading Scripture, we are bound, and that most em- IXINDRANOES
phatically-no less by reverence for its Author than by integ Are occasioned whenever the words of Scripture are 80 used
rity of heart,-to ask but one question: “What does it say?” as to cloud their true meaning; when the reader, instead of
And, if, to get this question answered, it is necessary to beine enliehtened. is misled bv biblical auotation: and when
ascertain, not only what the precise words are, but when and the kind of the Spirit, though professedly express&l, is really
to whom they were spoken, to ohserve the connection in which neglected or perverted.
they stand. and to note tho circumstances under which they Such is unoueationablv the case when texts intended for
were uttered, we muqt neither grudge the labor that may be one purpose, ape applied -to another; when warnings of tem-
involved, nor imagine that we can evade its necessity by poral character are silently changed into threateninga of eter-
indulging in our own fancies, however ingenious they may nal woe; when promises of earthly good are transformed into
he, or by prolonging meditation, however devout. When the predictions of spiritual blessing; ana when Christ is supposed
true meaning of a passage is made out, and not till then, to be referred to in Dassaees which clearlv indicate that no
r;hall we he able to an& it with simDlicitv of DurDose, or re- such thought was in ihe mynd of the inspi& writer.
ceive and realize as ii;&g words that- whiih hai been written. The h;bit of quoting passages of ScrFpture in ways which
In doing this a thonrrhtful and intellieent reader will plad- imrdv a meaning and armlication exceedinalv remote from
ly avail hrm‘;nself of suri helps as he ca”n obtain. The Eiblr th&; genuine dcksign, &-not a trifling eva.’ It is pregnant
always takes for Franted that readers are possessed of corn. with injuries to the cause of Scriptural knowledge and prac-
man sense---that they will give the same time and amount of tical edification. It encourages among Christians a widely-
nttention to incpircd statements that they are in the habit prevailing practice of reading the Scriptures with little at-
of bestowing on ordinary writings; and that they will read tention, and of applying detached passages in sentence8 en-
its communlrationq continuously, and as a whole. tirely foreign to their proper meaning.
C6441
JULY, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (8)

Let the object we have in view be steadily kept in mind anxiety to produce immediate and salutary impression; and
-the Dromotion of a more intelligent readine of Holv ScriD- that commonly all discussion in relation to them is depre-
ture,~ l$ pointing out and seeking-to remove?he vari&s hi;- cated on the ground that, as men are already far too little
drances, and it will be seen at once that the “accommodations” affected by the evil of sin, and far too careless respecting its
of which we complain, whatever may be the intention of those consequences, anything which seems to lessen the tcrribleneqa
who make and defend them, do really “darken counsel,” and of disobedience, even though it should be bv the removal of
so far tend to destroy the Divine teitimony. Read with the error, must be practically ‘injurious.
impressions produced by careless expositions, the Bible, in- The result. in accordance with that preat law of retri-
stead of being felt to be, as it really is, the most interestiep bution which bperates as surely in religi& as in everything
book ever peGned, becomes to the ieader dull, because made else, is that at the present time Infidelity plants its foot on
dark; and hard to understand because treated as if it were these very exaggerations as the first step to confirm un-
a mere collection of disjointed fragments, to be interpreted belief; insinuates that truth, both in books and sermons, is
by the aid of devout fancy. commonly sacrificed to effeot ; that things are not exactly as
they are represented; and that the most alarming appeals may
EXAGGERATIONS OF SCRIPTURE be divested of much of their power by a careful examination
By the exaggerations of Scripture we understand the use of the texts by which they arc enforced. So true is it that
of passages in a sense stronger than that they were originally exaggeration, whatever may be its immediate effect, inrari-
intended to bear, whe,ther such “adding to” the Divine Tes- ably weakens the cause it is intended to support.
timony-for it is nothing less-arise from n&translation, Therefore we warn all honest students of Holy Scripture
from the erroneous interpretation of imagery, or from general to “take heed how they read”; to beware of interpretations
misconception as to the limits under which any given state- which, however popular, can neither be sustained by the
ment is to be received. scholar nor justified by the devout; to dread especially those
The misfortune is that these exaggerations prevail most forlns of zcnhelief which dismiise themselves under the robe of
on subjects in relation to which it is of all others important karnest&n, but ‘which are really nothing better than expres-
that the exact line of Truth should not be overstepped; that sions of that want of faith in Scripture as it is which is the
they are often winked at, if not encouraged, from an undue curse of the Church. H. Duru~.

ENDURANCE
“Blcssc~d is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord
hath promised to them that love him.“-James 1:12.
For some years past we have been led to see by faith, with fulness; but O! with what joy shall that one meet his Lord
increasing clearness, the great reward promised to the over- who has for a long time paiiently endured.
coming Church of Christ. W h e n first its glory began to These daily trials that you meet are your testing; vou
dawn upon OUT minds, inspired by it, many of us said, Yes, stand every inoment before the judgmeni seat of ‘Ch&t.
Lord, we will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. Soon Everv little victorv. as well as everv meat one. will be in
we found that the way leads through opposi&n, persecu. your” favor in the’ final decision, a’s “to whetder you are
tion and great self-denial. But, nothing daunted, we said, worthy or unworthy of the high position to wl&h you
Yes, we know it and are ready for it; esteeming the glory to called. And when you are tried, when your trial is com-
follow as worthv of all it mieht cost. plete, you shall receive the promised crown of life.
Under the inspiration of-a living faith in the glorious That we may be strengthened for continued endurance,
promises, it was comparatively easy to strike off the fetters the Apostle directs our attention to the word of truth bp
that bound us to the former customs and ideas, and to take which we first received this glorious hope, (v. 18,) adding.
the first steps in the race set before us. “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving
All this was well-a good start. Our hearts were light your own selves. For if any man be a hearer of the word,
and bouyant; God’s Word was full of a new and blessed im- and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural
port; our sky was all aglow with glorious promise, and we face in a glass; for he beholdeth himself and goeth his way;
scarcely heeded the thorns that began sharply to prick our and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
feet. But how is it today? Some have been one, two, five, But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and con-
or ten years in the narrow way. Has a reaction followed tinueth [to do so], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a
the glowing enthusiasm of your first love? As yet the glory doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.”
does not appear, except to the eye of faith, but the way grows lt. is only by continual lookina into God’s word. and the
more and more narrow. the feeble flesh grows weary in the continual pitting in practice of “that which me thus learn
difficult journey, and temptation all around call us away from and keep fresh in mind, that we can hope to endure unto the
the course of sacrifice to present gratification. end. If we keep continually looking and doing we will find
To those thus tried and weary with the burden and heat that the same blessed hope will continually inspire fresh zeal
of the day comes the encouraging assurance of the Apostle in the way. It will strike its roots deep down in our hearts
James : “Blessed is the man that endureth.” Evervthine and its fruit will daily appear in our liven. “Let us run with
now depends upon your power of endurance. Can yo; holi patience the race that is set before us. lookine <. unto Jesus the
out to the end? It is not so hard to run well for a day, a author and finisher of our faith, who for the iov that was set
week, a month or a year; but when the years lengthen and before him, endured.” (Heb.. 12:2.) “Faith&i1 is he that
the end is indefinite, here is the test of endurance, of faith- calleth you who also will do it. (1 Thrs. 5 :2t.) MRS. C. T . R

VOL. v PITTSBURGH, PA., AUGUST, 1834

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

Many interesting letters from various parts, both across to comprehend the Gospel as to find that out of thp abund:lncll
the waters and in our own country, give evidence of the fact of the heart our month must sprnk: that the loye of Cl11 1-t
that though iniquity abounds and the love of many waxes and tllc knowledge of his ,rrlorionq truth con~tlnincth 11’1.
cold, still the Lord has a people consecrated and endeavoring nut while me thnq rcjoicc togetbcr. we cnn hilt rcinicrl
to carfy out that consecration in their daily life. with tlcmbling as we rcnli7e the serrct. s~~btlc. and pc~~vcr-
It 1s comforting to those who stand isolated in their own ing efforts of thr Prinrc of tllic. world to overcome the ;nint;i.
neighborhood to realize this. There are many such isolated No nrtifirc or rffort, is left untried: Oppoqition. rilliclllc. lc-
ones, and all have much the same experience-in the world, j&ion. flattery. fnl4e rcasoninc to diqprove the truth. cIrc+
tribulation ; in Christ, peace. It is also a source of encour- of tlliq world. bribeor with the good things of this norltl.
agement to learn that while we realize that the harvest is and allnrcnmcnts of rnriollr kinds. nrc nll n;cd.
great the laborers are being multiplied, and that so far as Thiq lJc>ing tbr C:IW. how important that W C pire 11ecd to
we can learn, the saints are realizing their call to make the .4po\tlc’s inqtriirtinn . “Tnkr unto ynu the nholc armor
known the glad tidings, and that though their talents be of Cod that yc nlny 1~ able to 11ithst:ind in the evil d.l?- ”
many or few they arc not to be folded away in a napkin. (Eph. 0 : 13.) Our prnyerq for ourselves nnd c:ich nthrr shnnld
W e have learned thnt thrrc are as many ways to preach the he constant. To him that nvrrcnmcth. i< the clnry th:lt fol-
Gospel as there are tnlcnt< among the saints. lows. Rlav grace tlivillc cnablc uq to cndrlrc II:II~~INW 3s gno,l
W e rejoice with all tbcsc that we have been so enabled soldiers of Jesus Chri<t.
16451 Cl‘,
 AN INTERESTING LETTER
Mr I)EAR BROTHER:-The enclosed has been waiting the lated rubbish of so many centuries. God’s word is more sweet
opportunity of mp writing for some days past. I wanted to and precious now than it ever has been. Am doing my work
write a long note. but vou will at any rate be saved the trou- in a quiet sort of way. Am no orator or speaker, but I can
ble of rendrng anh ans\vering a lengchhy epistle, as I have not talk privately with -thinking and sincere *Christians. The
time to sav all or ask all I should like. and I should not be real Bible students I can eet alonn with best. The nominal
surprised if, among so many, I had by ‘this time slipped out Christian cannot argue fr”m the”Word; he can only say,
of your memory altogether. However this ma.y be, I have “Well, I believe this and that,” simply because others have
llcen diligently studring and searching the Scriptures. done the same. Of course it is not worth while giving the
I was most unwilling to give up the old belief, but I am time to such, but the more thoughtful will hear you again.
not anything less than forced to do so. Every day’s reading I am more convinced every day that the time is very near
and sfudy convinces me that you have the truth on your side. when the musty dogmas must. go down, and the truth as it
Indeed I am astonished at the amount of light shining and is in Jesus prevail.
<howing up the old sparkling diamonds among the accumu- Very faithfully yours, . England.

PAUL’S EXHORTATION
‘.I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ. . . . . preach the word; be instant in season, out, of season ; re-
more, rebuke. exhort with all lone: suffering and doctrine . . . . Be thou sober in all things : suffer bad treatment; perform
&
‘an evangelist’s work ; fully accomplish thi service.” (2 Tim. 4: 1, 2, 5, Diaglott and Com”mbn Tran.)
We hare heretofore seen that the commission to preach of such reproach mav be for Christ’s sake, but it is not to
the good tidings come3 to all the anointed company--the body Christ’s gliry, and tLe loss is the result oi imprudence, and
of Christ-and thr7t for this very purpose we have received of not heeding the injunction, “Study to show thyself ap-
the anointing. That which was true of the Head is also true proved unto God, a workman that needeth not, to be ashamed,
of the whole body-“The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Tim. 2: 15.
Iwcnwe the Txn-tl hnth anointed me to preach.” (Isa. 61 :l.) Truth, rightly divided, and fairly presented, commands
But, while wr who are consecrated and anointed realize the respect even of its opponents. Its symmetry and beauty
that we are thus rnlled of God to preach, it, is of very great will irresistibly stamp itself upon the mind. Thus it. was in
imnortance that we consider well what,, when, how, where, the case of Jesus’ preaching, when the very men that were
and to whom. we map preach. commissioned to lay hands on him and deliver him to death
It is a great mistake, and yet, a very common one, to go returned, saying, “Never man spake like this man.” (John
out to preach before being sent. Such, of course, cannot and 7 :46.) So also Fe&us said to Paul, “Paul, thou are beside
do not preach the good tidings. Some presume that because thyself; much. learning doth make thee mad.” “No” said
Paul said, “Renrovp’
. . rrbukr, and exhort,” that must be the bulk Paul, with becoming dignity and due deference to the ‘powers
and substance of their preaching, forgetting that he also said, that be, “I am not, mad, most noble Festus, but, speak forth
“With all loner-sufferin f natience) and doctrine.” Renroof the words of truth and soberness. For the king knoweth of
nr rebuke maf ‘somctim’e’s bk necess&ry, but it should nev;?r be thrse things before whom I speak freely . . . . King Agrippa,
administered merelr according to our own whims or imagina- helievest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.
tions. but should in ererv instance be “with doctrine”-with Then Agrippa said unto Paul, ‘Almost thou persuade& me
cound and scriptural reasoning-that it may be recognized as to be a Christian.’ And Paul said, I would to God that not
a renroof from the Lord. thouph administered through the only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both al-
apen& of a brother with brotherly patience, and no; with most, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.” And
an arrogance which for,gets that we are subject to similar the verdict of these unbelievers, in Paul’s case, was, “This
temptations. man doeth nothing worthy of death or of bonds.” (Acts
Exhortation mnr he necessary, but should never degenerate 26:24-31-l
into mere coasin,g without sound reacion or doctrine. Exhorta- Paul’s eloquence was the eloquence of truth--the result of
tion without sound rrnqnnin,a and the strong support, of the a thoroueh understanding and conviction of the truth. which
inspired Wnrd is weak and is not lasting in its effects. This carried force and commanded the respect of even its enemies.
is the method of preaching most cnmmon at the present day, He was a diligent student as well as a preacher, and his hear-
hut was never indulged in hy our Lord. Of him it was sai’d, ers could not say, Paul, you don’t, know what you are talking
“He shall not rry nor call alnud, nor cause his voice to be about, nor turn with disgust from the sound of empty words.
heard in the Strprtq.” Isa. 42:2--lseser. His preaching, and When Jesus our great, example went out, to preach--to
that of his disriplrn. was reasonable, doctrinal, and was de- tea&-the people listened with astonishment, and said
l&red with the dignity and meekness becoming to Jehovah’s “Whence bath this man this wisdom?” (bfatt. 13:54.) And
ambassadors. thus it is to some extent with all who follow in his foot&ens.I
Let, 119 inquire, then, ,4ct 4:13.
WHAT ARE WE CALLRD TO PREACH? Some zealous brother or sister may ask, How long must
Paul an4wers. “Preach the Word,” and Isaiah and Jesus I tarrv for preparation ? and how shall I know when the Lord
call it ‘cgood tidings.” Before we begin to preach, therefore, sends “me o;t?’ To this we reply that when the Lord sends
11-e should first, be acquainted with“the Iqord &d have a you out you will be sure to know it. You will be so filled
clear. definite understanding of its “coed tidinrrs.” Although with the knowledge of the truth, and so &spired by it that
ns soon as we were anoinied, we w&e called ‘&-I preach, iGe out of the abundance of your heart, your mouth must speak.
T.ord would not have us engage in such service until first The rrood tidings will be too eood to keen. You will not have
n c hare received sufficient instruction. The first, dutv, then, all t%e truth ‘&od intends f& you bef&e you are sent out,
of everyone who would obey the call to preach is to’berome but you will have a clear, definite outline at least. Just how
an earnest. faithful. diligent student of God’s U’ord. that he lonn a time of nrenaration vou will require will dewnd on
may be nblc to minister irace to the hearer, having k;is speech cir&mstances--the ‘amount df time you ‘can devote to study,
ccnsnncd nith salt. (Eph. 4:20: Cal. 4:6.) the decree of effort with which vou undertake it. the faith
You mav be cnlled to Dreach some time before vou are and s&plicitv in which you reciive it, etc. Some may be
=rnt out inio active srrvice.’ Jesus was “anointed to “preach” ready for active service sooner than others, but all require
at the time of hiq hantism. hut he was not sent, out until after a considerable time for previous preparation.
hi hnrl endured the &ldrrnpss trmptation. The early disciplrs But even when permitted to engage in active service, we
were cnllrd. hut were told to tarry until endued with power. &onld bear in mind the fact that we are to be constant stu-
For a snrrial nurnosc in the introduction of the gosnel. the dents. To preach the Word, the good tidings, is our com-
power came upbn ihe enrlv church suddenly and m~~a&ldusly mission, and which of us can yeyetiay, We h%e sounded all
RS soon as thcr receivrd the anointing. but this has not been its denths, and measured all its heiehts. and have therefore
the case nith the church since then. Power in presenting the nnthin’g more to learn ? To have a ‘ken&al outline of God’s
truth comc5 now to the anointed as the reward of diligent, plan mapped out in our minds is very good, but. we should
ctudv of the Word. hare its various features so clearly fixed as to be able to
To many studv iq diqtnstrful; thry have not been accus- show it to another; therefore review is verv necessary.
tomed to it, and arr not willing to give it. the necessary time When thus prepared and sent out, to meach (and be as-
and labor. pet thrr nnnt to nhrp the call to preach, and so sured you are hot’ yet sent if you are nbt prepdred), Paul
they po forth to add tn the Eeneral confusion of unintelligible says. “Be instant in srason” and “out. of season.” Does he
prrtachinp. and their nork hrings reproach and dishonor both mean to have us pay no attention to fitting and appropriate
lIpon themselves and upon the cause of Christ,. The bearing times? No, for that would be contrary to the Lord’s teach-
AUGUST,1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (2,

ing-“ Be ye wise as serpents and harmless as doves”-as well couraged or despair of ever being sent out to preach. You
as to his own example. He must mean, then, to have no may never be sent to speak to a public audience. God u,e-,
regard to our own convenience or inconvenience, but to be us according to the human talent we possess. Paul, Peter and
always ready to preach when we find fitting opportunity. others could preach publicly, but Aquila and Priscilla unable
Iniudicious breaking in unon the vlans of others to teach to preach in a public wav to the manv, could invite an 9~0110s
them “what we deem d be of importance, but which they do to their home and expl&n to him the way of God more per-
not yet so recognize, is almost sure to defeat our purpose and fectlv. And the devoted and eloauent Anollos. thus more
to engender prejudice not soon nor easily overcome. perfectly prepared, went out to d&lare it publicly. (Act?
Paul further enjoins that we be sober in all things; that 18:2, 26. Had Aquila and Priscilla not been students of the
is, that we handle the truth with becoming reverence and hu- truth, what an opportunity they would have lost.
mility, living as examples of its influence, not carried away May the Lord’s blessing rest upon all the preachers of the
with excitement or self-exaltation, and that we patiently suffer good tidings, whether in a wide or in a seeming narrow
bad treatment, which we should expect from those who love sphere; but let us not forget the fitting counsel, “Stud?/ to
darkness rather than light, although measurably they secretly show thyself a workman approved unto -God rightly dividing
recognize the light we bring. the word of truth.” And be assured that when Drenared. vou
In view of the preparation necessary, none need be dis- will surely be sent to preach it to at least some one.

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
“If we walk in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ hiti
Son, cleanseth us from all sin.“-1 John 1:7.
True fellowship implies love, sympathy, a mutual sharing will lead all of his children into light
‘i
(truth) in its due sea-
of good or ill, common principles, common interests, and a son, if they are in actual fellowship with him. John states
common aim. It may exist between parties on equal footing, this very emphatically, saying, “If we say that we have fel-
or between those whose conditions are widely different. Where lowsnip with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not
the latter is the case, benevolence on the part of the superior is the truth.” (Ver. 6.)
shown in acts of favor and blessing, and on the part of the Ah, John, sags some brother, I think vou are too severe:
inferior, in gratitude and such returns in action as are pos- I know many very good Christians who s;y they are entirely
sible. consecrated to God. and onlv want to know and do his will.
Than such fellowship there is nothing more desirable and and truly they do ‘many wonderful works, and yet they walk
more helpful to the saints in the narrow and difficult way in darkness, knowing nothing of the blessed truths now made
thev are called to tread. But while we should ever seek and so plain to us. And not only so, but they refuse to hear it
cultivate such fellowship, we need to be very careful to see and do not want it. Yet they claim to have fellowship with
that our fellowship one with another, is based upon correct God; how is it? John’s answer is very plain and may seem
principles, else that which was designed as a blessing,..,. will to many, severe, yet we apprehend it is the severity of truth.
be found .to our great disadvantage. - He says, “They he, and do not the truth.” They don’t want
Realizing this. the Avostle Paul admonishes us. saving: to know it, because they don’t want to do it.
“Be ye nor unequally yoked together with unbeliever;, f& God speaks to his children through his Word, and he is
what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and acquainted with all our circumstances and hears our prayers,
what communion hnth light with darkness . . . . or what part but it is a great mistake to imagine that W C have communion
bath he that believeth with an infidel?” (2 Cor. 6:14, 15.) and fellowship with God, when we only speak to him in
“How can two walk together except they be agreed?” It is prayer, and never examine the Word to hear him speak to us.
impossible. Let us see to it, then, that our fellowship is based We may speak and then listen, but we need to hear much
up&r the sure foundation referred to in this text&he blood more than we say. None can thus commune with God
of Jesus Christ that cleanseth us from all sin-and that our without becoming acquainted in some measure with his truth.
rejoicing and communion be of the increasing light as we and if they are in harmony and fellowship with him, his plans
walk together. and purposes will become theirs. If they do not desire to
And this great blessing, the Apostle John tells us, it is obev the truth, thev will deceive themselves in an endeavor
our privilege to have. He-says we-may have fellowship with to disbelieve it; and” to substitute something else in its place.
our Father. and with his Son and also with other saints who And while doing this manv hold to the form of sound word*
are walking in the light-the truth. while denying their import.
“This then,” says John, “is the message which we have But if as children of the light we walk in the light, not
heard of him and declare unto you that God is light, and only shall we have fellowship with our Father and our Lord,
in him is no darkness at all.” The truth is all clear and but we shall also have fellowship with other saints who are
plain in God’s sight and he, by his Spirit, through his Word, walking in the same narrow way. R. W.

THE SECRET OF HIS PRESENCE

In the secret of His nresence Onlv this, I know. 1 tell Him
How my soul delights to hide; All my doubt; . and griefs, and fears:
Oh, how precious are the lessons Oh. how patient!y He listens.
Which I learn at Jesus’ side! And my drooping be:11t hc cheers.
Earthly cares can never vex me, Do you think he ne’er reproves me?
Neither trials lav me low, What a false friend He would be.
If when Satan corn& to tempt me, If He never, never told me
To the secret place I go. Of the sins wbicll He mnat sec.
When my soul is faint and thirsty, Do you think that I could love Him
‘Neath the shadow of His wing Half so well, 01 ns I ought,
There is cool and pleasant shelter, If He did not plainly tell me
And a fresh and crystal spring. Of each sinful word and thought?
And my Saviour rests beside me, No! for Hr is very faithful.
As we hold communion sweet; And that makes me trust Him more.
If I tried. I could not utter For I know tbnt He does love me.
What He says, when thus we meet. Though sometimes lie wouutl~ n10 %:oi(x

Would vou like to know the sweetness,

Of thit secret of the Lord?
Go and hide beneath His shadow,
This shall then be your reward.
And whene’er you leave the silence
Of that happy meeting-place,
You must mind and bear the image
Of your Master in your face. -Sr’lecf(d
CC471
 IS THE SECOND DEATH A BLESSING!
“The wages of sin is death.“-Ram. 8:23.
**He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.“--Rev. 2: 11.
Many ale the ingenious devices of our great adversary The Apostle’s reasoning in verse 11, can only be grasped
for o\-e&hrol\ing the faith of the saints in the foundation by one who has clearly in mind his reasoning preceding, as
p~inciplcs of the Gospel of Christ. Among them is the widely presented in the fore part of the Epistle. Chapter 1 begins
accepted notion that death is really part of an evolution by the subject away back before the Deluge, when men knew
whlc~h mankind must reach perfection. The thought is clearly God hut glorified him not, but yielded to their own vain imag-
txup~raced in the following lines of a popular hymn: inings and their foolish heart became darkened. (Ver. 21.)
Chap. 2: 1 shows that all men have come into some measure
“Death is the angel God hath sent of the same darkness. and that the Jews as well as the Gen-
To bear us to the sky.”
tiles, are all worthy bf condemnation, and are all condemned,
Out of this theory, as a starting point, many grievous because “There is none righteous, no not one.” (Rom. 3:9,
elrnrs have -n~own. The fact that death is the nenaltv of sin 10, 19, 20.)
is ignoletl. a;ld the necessity of a ransom is denied bi many; Having thus proved that “all the world” has “become
and even the second death, notwithstanding the plain Scriptur- guiltv before God.” Paul introduces the work of Christ as the
al teachings and warnings with reference to it, is represented yeme& for all this guilt; for though “all have sinned and
as a blessing. come ihort of the glory of God,” he h& JUSTIFIED them freely
In harmony with this error is the idea now prominently bv his favor. through the redemptaon that is in Christ Jesus,
advanced. that the first, or Bdamic death, is merely a death \;‘hom God bath set forth to be- a propitiation through faith
to righteousness, and that the second death is a death to sin. in his blood [the life he gave to redeem ours], to manifest
Thuspit is said, Adam and all mankind died to righteousness God’s righteousness in condemning to death, and to accom-
and became alive to sin; and that a man’s conversion is the plish a remission of sins. Vs. 24, 26.
second death-a death to sin and a becoming alive to right- In chapter IV., the Apostle continues to further emphasize
eousness. the justification from sin and death, to life and a condition
On this unscriptural hypothesis a theory is built which, of righteousness, accomplished as he has shown by *Jesus’
to the undiscerning, has an appearance of plausibility; and it death, saying, “Blessed are they whose iniquities are for-
is a sad fact that only the few search the Scriptures, and still given, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to
fewer “try the spirits” (doctrines) by comparing scripture whom the Lord will not impute sin” (vs. 7, 8)) and repeats
with scripture, and thrrefore, error has always found it ex- his testimony that the forgiveness and covering of our sins
nedient to quote the Scriptures in its support. was through him “who was delivered FOR OUR OFFESCES and
1 In our Lord’s temptation in the wild&ness the same de- raised again for our justification.” (v. 25.) Chapter V. carries
ception was attempted: Satan quoted, saying, “It is written the tonic further and shows the result of justificatlott, that it
*” but Jesus answered, “It is also written . . . .” So brings’the condemned sinners back to a standing where they
kl;o;lid ‘the disciple be as his Lord, and endeavor to rightly can have peace with God through our Lord ,Jcsuu Cbri+t
divide the word of God-to anplv it as the Spirit designed, (v. 1). And yet more, not only are we justified, but through
and not as every wind of doct&n;? might twist *it out of-har- Christ and through the justification which he accomplished
mony with its context. for us, we have access into a still further favnr of God-
Before proceeding to examine any theory the careful stu- access into this favor wherein we stand and rejoice, in hope
dent will first inquire, How strong is the foundation on which of the glory of ‘God. (vs. 1, 2.) Not only then was our
it rests? for if the foundation of the theory be wrong, all human nature iustified. and a right to the glor?! of manhood
Y

that can be built upon it must be wrong. This is a short, restored, but a door &as therebc opened to- us-by’ which we
sure, and safe test: the t,heory must stand or fall with its may have a hope of reaching the glory of Clod-the Divine
foundntion. nature.
In carefully examining the foundation of this view, it will And not only have we obtained a hope of future glory,
be found first, that it has no Scriptural basis; and secondly, which causes rijoicing, but as we realize that that “glor:\
tllat it is directly opposed to the clearly expressed statements of God” is nromised as a reward for the sacrifice of the jrlstl-
of the Scriptures 011 the subject. The Scripture quoted above Aed human&nature, it enables us to rejoice in the tribuh~tions
~110~s that death is always the wages of sin; but this theory by which alone that heavenly glory can be obtained. (v. 3.)
would make it sometimes the reward of righteousness, when After showing that the sacrifice of Christ was a full sct-
it clainlq that to become righteous is to die to sin. This alone tlement of all condemnation and imperfection resulting di-
is clear proof that the theory is based upon an interpretation rectly and indirectly from Adam’s transgression (vs. 15-21) ,
of tleath out of harmony with the Scriptures and hence un- he inquires (chap. 6: 1) What shall we say then 1 If the sin
worthy of further con+lcration. of Adam has brought forth so much favor from God. ~11,111
The passage relied on to prove the position, is Rom. 6:l(r- we continue to sin-in hope that still further favor wo~11d be
“In that he [,Jesus] tlird. he died unto sin.” And as he was manifested on our behalf ?-and answers : God forbid. How
our example, thcrrforr it, is argued, that all mankind must shall we who have died by sin live any longer therein?
likewise die unto sin and become alive unto God, or become The u’e here mentioned is the same class mentioned in
righteous. But let 114 qee if the harmony of the Scriptures Chap. 5 :2, 3, and 1:7, a class of saints who not only have
will warrant such an interprctntion of this passage. First been justified by faith in Jesus, the Redeemer, but have ob-
we ail;, Can that which is not alive be said to die? Certainly tained by consecration, sacrifice, access into “THIS QRA&'-
not. Then unless .lequs was olive to sin, that is, a person the begetting and promises of the divine gluture-“the glory
liciplg in si,~, he rould not in that sense &c unto sin. And of God.” This class had died, that is, had consecrated to
just hrrc MC call to mind the question of Jesus himself, death, and now reckoned themselves dead indeed. This was
“Which of you conrinreth me of sin ?” as a payment for sin, as death always is the wages of sin.
If thoicl Scripturr~ are true which say that Jesus was holy, But in this case it was not a payment of the wages of their
harmless, undcfletl and separate from sinners, and knew no own sin. No: they had been justified from their own sin by
sin, does it not plove that the theory which makes this pas- the death of ‘Jesu,, and had afterward consecrated to death,
sage teach that *Jesus died unto, or ceased from sin, is a and that death was to apply for the sin of others just as
falic application of the passage, since he could not cease from Jesus had died, not for sill of his own, for he had none, but
that which he never be,rrnn, never knew, but was always sep- “for our sins.” So these saints consecrated to die, not for
arate from ? their 02~‘~ sins, for they had none, since justified from all sin
That this is a misnl)nlication of this Scripture is made by Jesus’ death.
positive bv a glance at the preceding verse, whidh refers clear- But, says some one, does not the death of Jesus alone
Iv and ndintedlv to the, nrtual death of Jesus. and his actual constitute the redemption price for the sins of the whole
rksurrec’tion-“fihrist being raised from the ‘dead, dieth no world ?
more : cl~~nth hat11 no more dominion over him.” We answer, !l!lle merit of Jesus is the only merit which
But let us see how this text may be interpreted in har- cancels the sin of the whole world; but whether that merit
mono with the context In this verse the word unto expresses is applied directly to the world, or indirectly through “the
tllc: ;clea much lcsi clt*nlly than the word “by,” as &ven in Church, which is his body,” is the question. This is the favor
t!lrA Dinclott translation. The thou,rrht is that Jesus died bv which is specially offered to the Gospel Church, viz.: to share
or on account of -in once. HIS deagl was “the wages of sin” with Jesus in making the sacrifice for sins, being first our-
a5 all death is, hut not by reason of, nor on account of, nor selves justified through HIS SACRIFICE. This is the Apostle’s
ai the wages of <in which he committed; but as elsewhere teaching when he speaks of filling up that, which is BEHIND
St :+ted, “Crri\t tlicbd for our sins according- to the Scriptures” of the afflictions of Christ (Col. 7 :24), and it was the teach-
and “Jrhnvah hat11 laid unon him the iniauitv of us all.” ing of Jesus when hc said to the disciples: “Ye shall drink
indeed of my cup [suffering] and be baptized with the baptism
(3) C6431
AUGUST. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER
that I am bantizecl with” [death] (Matt. 20:23.) And that demnation] was crucified with [more properly ‘% “I him [that
the Apostle is’ carrying out this same line of thought in the is, was represented in Jesus when he was crucified], so that
enistle we are now considering. is evident. How [with what the body of sin might be destroyed [Jesus in his own person
cbnsistency] can we that have%ed [consecrated td death] by represented sin as a whole, and as such he was “made a curse
sin [on account of or as sin sacrifices], how could we con- for sin”], that we may no longer be enslaved to sin; for he
sistently live any longer in sin, or have any fellowship with who died [and orcly he who died thus representatively in Jesus’
that which we are dying to destroy or remove? “Know ye death, that is, who accepts of the divine statement that Christ
not that so malzy of us as were baptized INTO Jesus Christ died for his sins, only such an one] has been justified from
[into membership in that body of which He is the head] were sin” (vs. 6, 7 ) .
baptized [plunged, swallowed up, buried] into HIS DEATH?" “And if [after being thus as sinners represented in Jesus
His death was not Adamic death, but a ransom or substitu- sacrifice, and justified thereby] we [as justified persons] died
tion for it, and we share in his death, and hence share in the with him, we believe that we shall also live with him; know-
results of his death-the putting away of the sins of the whole ing that Christ being raised from the dead, dies no more;
world. death no longer lords it over him. For the death which he
“We have therefore been entombed with him by the immer- died, he died by sin [our sin imputed to him], but the life
sion into that DEATH [in. order], that as Christ was raised which he lives he lives by [the favor and reward of] God.
from the dead by the glory of the Father, so also we should Thus do YOU account yourselves dead indeed unto sin as shar-
walk in a new iife.” Our condition is a reckoned one. and ers with Jesus of the nenaltv of the world’s sinl, but lasl
if we reckon ourselves justified by Christ and then dead’ with living by [the favor or iewara’ of] God in the anointed Jesus.”
Christ, we should go yet further and reckon ourselves as (vs. 8-11-Diaglott.)
though we had been resurrected and were now actually spir- In view of these facts, “Let not sin therefore reign in your
itual beings, as Jesus now is, and we should act accordingly, mortal body, that ye should obey its desires: neither present
abstaining from sin and rejoicing in communion and glory, your memb&s to sin as instruments of iniquity; but [accord-
as though we had been made already perfect as spiritual be- ing to your consecration, and in the carrying out of that death
ings. “For [this is the reason why we should so reckon] if which you already reckon accomplished] present yourselves to
we have been slanted together in the likeness of his death God as if alive from the dead [just as though you were risen
[or, in the like’ kind of diath-sczorificial], certainly we shall actually, and possessed your promised immortal, spiritual
be also in that of his resurrection” [we shall share a like body complete], and present your members to God as instru-
resurrection ; that is, a resurrection to spiritual perfection]. ments of righteousness” that vou mar be used of him as his
“Knowing this [remembering in this connection], that our agents and “mouthpieces. .
om man [our departed, sin-inclined selves, when under con-

NOT HURT O F THE SECOND DEATH

From the foregoing it will be seen that the death of the of an individual and deliberate act of each one who suffers it.
saints as a sacrifice with Christ. as members of his bodv shar- It shall no more be a proverb, “The fathers ate a sour grape
ing his death, i$ their second ‘death. It was reckonld that lsin] and the children’s teeth are set on edge;” but then,
our death as sinners in Adam was accomplished in the cruci- every man that dieth the second death will dre only for his
fixion of Jesus, and our resurrection as justified men, as ac- own wilful sin, against full light and power to do otherwise.
complished in Jesus’ resurrection, as shown above. Ooze death “The soul that sinneth, IT shall die.” (Ezek. 18 :2-4; Jer.
was therefore in the past, hence when we, as justified persons, 31:29, 30.) And not a single reference of Scripture, in which
presented ourselves as living sacrifices, to be baptized with the second death is mentioned, ever refers it, to any hut a
Jesus’ baptism of death and to fill up that which is behind class of wilful sinners, who, in $pite of knowledge and ability,
of the afflictions of Christ, we then and there were covenant- love sin and hate righteousness, except this one, which hastens
ing a second denth, and day by day, if obedient to our cove- to assure us that though this class will suffer death aside
nant, we are dying, and soon the second death shall have swal- from the Adamic, and, therefore, the second, they will not be
lowed up this’justified human nature. iniured in. coltsealcence. The unavoidable inference is, that all
But will it he a great loss? It would be a sad and irre- others than this-class-the overcomers of the Gospel .church--
parable loss of our existence forever, were it not that the will be greatly injured by the second death.
Father, who highly exalted Jesus, our Head, to the divine Since each one who &es the second death will have had a
nature, has covenanted similarly to exalt all the members of full individual trial, it follows, that to recover them from
his body-“So many of us as were baptized into Christ,” death would reauire the death of a Redeemer for each. And
“baptized into his death.” not only are w< told that Jesu; dies only once for sin, and
These, who during this age follow in the footsteps of the will die “no more”’ but we can see that -a ransom from the
Forerunner, are the overcomers of the world mentioned in second death would be useless. since there could he no more
our Lord’s promise--“He that conquers, in no wise shall be favorable oportunity presented than that which they shall have
injured IN CONSEQUENCE of the second death.” (Rev. 2:11- tmperienced under the Millennial reign, before being condemned
Rotkerham’s translation.) to the second death.
Shall we conclude then that the second death would injure As the first death, or wages of Adam’s sin, was not tor-
no one ? Nay ; death is everywhere presented as the destruc- ture. but a destruction of being (Psa. 90 :3), so also the sec-
tion. of whatever it is applied to. -It is the wages of sin ond death, the wages of wilful,“individual si$ is a destruction
aluwys; the first or Adamic death which passed upon all men or blotting out of being forever, but is not torture. As Adamic
was the penalty of one man’s disobedience entailed upon all death would have been everlasting in duration without a ran-
whom he renresented in trial. and it is because Adamic death som and resurrection, so the second death will be everlasting
is to be removed throueh Christ, that any could die again. because of no ransom and no resurrrction from it. “The
But the second death shall not be a continuance of the first, wages of sin is death. hut the gift of God is ETERNAL LIFE
a dying on account of Adam’s sin, but it will be the result fhrough Jesus Christ our Lord.”

SPECIAL LIG H T FROM HEAVEN

The notion of a special light fbepond or different from that So men who hold to this sort of divine aid. are already
contained in the Scripture, ‘is evidently the brother’s meaning. beginning to renson : “Are we,” it is now said-not by skep-
-Ed.] being vouchsafed to the prayerful reader of Scripture, tics only, hut by evangelical teachers-“to bring down the
is as destructive of the divine record itqelf, as it is of man’s word inspiration to a use merely narrow and technical, as-
responsibility in rejecting it : for if God, by his Spirit, com- serting it only of prophecy and other Scripture writings, and
municates directly with the minds of men now, as an inter- carefully excluding from it all participation by ourselves. in
preter,’ such communications will assuredly cwttrol any words whatever sense it might he taken 9’ Are we to ‘become a class
given to mortals eighteen hundred years ago. unprivileged. differing from the anointed men of Scripture
l [The manner in which the Holy Soirit acts as a guide into truth, and Scripture times--shut down to a kind of second-hnnd life,
we believe to be, first, by purifying the moral nature-removing such feeding on their words?’ In it to be believed fhat they were
obstacles as pride, preludlce, etc., and secondly, by directing the careful inspired, while we in no sense can he? If so, there is no
student through a comparison of Scripture, into such channels as to
show its wonderful harmony with every other part of the Divine Revela- relief for us, but in a recoil agawst inspirntion itself. eren
tion, and with a reasonable idea of the character of an all-wise God. that of the Holy Scriptures: for who will credit that men
What the author here combats is the prevalent claim of numerous were inspired long ages ago. when now any such thing is in-
careless readers of the Scriptures, that their fanciful imaginings-which
cannot be proved in harmony with the divine record, are given by the credible ?” [Rev. Horace Bushnell. D. D.]
Spirit of God.-En.1
C6491
(4) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSEURGH, PA

The recoil thns spoken of as inevitable, finds its expression Prophets and Apostles by any fancied inspiration of our own,
in those later forms of criticism which are now issuing from is a miserable delusion; and thirdly, that as a consequence,
the great seats of learning, according to which the inspira- whether we approve or not, we must either feed on the words
tlon of the first century, is to bow before that of the nine- of men who -<rote as they were moved by the Holy Spirit
teenth: the miraculous is to be expurgated; and if, as a nec- eighteen hundred vears ago. or wither in our nride. And this.
e$s~~rY conseonenre. the Bible loses its authority, the result no’t because the Apostles-and other Scripture writers are set
may ‘be rep&ted. but it must be considered a:~ inseparable between us and God, to fence us away, but because the action
from progress. of the Spirit of God on man, when not exercised miraculously,
The root of these terrible errors, is the notion that the as at the planting of the Christian Church, and as in the
Holy Spirit enlirhtena the mind bv other means than by the case of the ApostIes and other Scripture writers, is on the
pnrificition of t’he nntnre. This is evident from the giound moral nature only, and never directly on the intellect; that
taken bv Dr. Rowland Williams. who boldlv asserts. not onlv the Holy Spirit &lightens, not by a “process of addition, but
that inspiration is a permanent power ii the Ch;lrch, bu% bv one of subtraction: bv removina moral obstacles to the
that the l31hlc alnays snpposed in its readers, “IZI~ illumilzcc- free and healthy action oi the natural faculties.
t7071 kindred to its om.” In explaining what he means, he The contrary view, however spiritual or consoling it may
qnotes as an authority. St. Basil, who“ speaks of the Holy seem, destroys all tangible distinctions between inspired and
Fnirit RS an intellectual linht. affordine illumination to everv uninspired communicaiions ; favors mysticism ; loweis the au.
r;tlonal facdty in the investiiation of<truth; the light which thorit,y of the written Word: and justifies, so far as anything
clears mental perplPaitic.9, and the secret energy through can do, the most fanatical interpretation of Scripture. For
which every organ discharges its functions aright. it is evident that if a man’s understanding of Holy Writ de.
In the faith of this doctrine it is asserted the creeds were pends on anTthing else than the right use of the faculties God
developed, doctrine was drawn from doctrine, liturgies were has given him (which of course implies their non-perversion
collected, and Gentile customs were adopted. bv dislike or nreiudice) it must be internreted bv a light,
But what follows ? Why, of course this: that as the Com- Which, try to eipl’gin it ‘as we mav, can ne;er be m&e or Tees;
forter at present acts within the bounds of our capacities, than a personal inspiralion, in whi’ch case, snch personal teach-
leaving us linhle to error and the shortcomings of our gen- ings must be wpreme.
eration, so [the deduction would be] it is in harmony with It is both curious and instructive to observe how error
the Divine dealings to suppose that while Apostles and changes its form without changing its nature. It would really
Pronhcts eninyctl a larger measure of illumination, they, too, seem as if Protestants, like Romanists. believed that A DIVINE
werk left liahie to sho&comings in knowledge or humanitv in. REVELATION without ai INFALLIELE INTERPRETER was norevela-
reasonifla. The nrrument culminates in the auestion. What tion at all. Dr. Whatelv has well shown that this craving
then is {he anthoritv of the Scriptures apart from whit good for infallibility, than wh&h there is no mnre powerful prince
men approve. and from what fair historians think credible? ple in human nature, not only prediqmsen men towards the
The anr;wer implied is. Nothing at all. pretensions of a snpposed unerring Church. nr of those who
Such are the rnnqequences involved in a doctrine which cliLim or who promise immediate inspiration. but becomes the
is to this day cherished with the utmost tenderness by all parent of no small amount of infidelity.
ernn,~clicnl churches. It is an error that falls in at once with men’s z&&es,
Rnt this is not the doctrine of Scripture. The “illumina- and with their conjectures: it presents itself to them in the
tion” there supposed is a spiritual, not an intellectual gift. guise of a virtuous humility; and they readily and firmly
It iq light proceeding from love. It is moral sympathy leading believe it, not only without evidence, but against all evidence.
tn the recognition of the Divine Word. It is, in short, reason, Vain, however, is it to hope that bp any such means, we
enlightened and sanctified bv the Holy Spirit, and thus made can evade our responsibility. What we really want is that
capnhle of appreciating divine truth when it is presented to blessed indwelling of the Holy Spirit-the only influence we
the mind. are authorized to seek and to pray for-which is not intel-
We lay it down then as lectual, but moral; which is inseparable from candor, love of
truth, and obedience generally; which manifests itself in grow-
A FIXED PRINUIPLE, ing sympathy with the divine character; and which therefore
That he who would understand the Bible must believe, first, involves clearer perceptions of, and a deeper insight into, the
that God in rivincr it. has not withheld anvthimz necessarv divine mind and will as exhibited in the Bihle, than can be
for its compr&en&n. so far. at least, as present ;iuty is con’ obtained in any other way: For saith the Lord himself, “If
cerned; secondly, that to seek to CONTROL the inspiration of thine eve be single. thv whole bodv shall be full of light.”
H. I%JNN.

HO, EVERY ONE THAT THIRSTETH!

“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.“-Isa. 55: 1.
Tn all of God’? dealings with his creatures, one principle don’t compel them to hear and accept it we fear they will
is marked and prominent, and that is the dignity with which never get it ;” and so they attempt to force the truth upon
he maintains his own prerogatives while granting freedom to them at unseasonable times and in obtrusive ways, and some-
his creatures. in the exercise of their God-given powers. Thus times the anxiety to enforce one truth, or supposed truth,
having made man in his own likeness--with -reason, will, leads to a sacrifice and darkening of other truth. But the
iudgment. etc.-he does not afterward deface or ignore that result is alwavs the same-more harm than good. A loath-
image, bnt. on the contrary, he honors it. ing of truth is generally the result.
God never demands of man a course of action out of har- It will relieve such of much anxiety to call to mind what
mong with his reason, at the sacrifice of his judgment, and they have recently learned-that God’s plan is so broad and
in opposition to his will; but in every case he satisfies reason, generous that its macious provisions cover all the interests
appeals to the judgment, and leaves the decision subject to of every creature. -None ark so small, or so degraded, or so
a free will, enlightened by an understanding of the inevitable mean, as to be left out. If at present they are so filled with
final result5 in either case. He sets before us inducements the husks of human traditions, and the muddy waters of hu-
or rewards to righteousness, and punishments for unright- man philosophy, there is little use in trying to 511 them with
eousness. hnt does not comnel either course. With dignity anything better. By and by (in the time of trouble) God
and patience he awaits a sifficient time for our enlighEene& wiil furnish them such an emetic that thereafter they will be
decision, and then carries out his own purpose with reference prepared to receive the truth in its purity and in the love
to 11~ in the event of that decision. of it. It matters not, as we now clearly see, even if death
In accnrdnnre with this principle, is the above invitation should intervene. for all shall be brought to a knowledge of
through the Prophet IsaiahL“Ho; every one that thksteth, the truth under ‘the favorable circums&nces of the mille&ial
rome y’: to tlw waters” (truth). Water is unwelcome except reign of Christ, and have full opportunity to secure everlast-
to the thirsty, and food produces loathing if forced upon one ing life.
who is not hunerv: so truth is obnoxious to those who mefer While we may thus rest in faith upon the sure promises
error.. Thcrefo&: knd only gives his good things where they of God with reference to these, it is our privilege to herald
are drsired, and never compels the acceptance of his favors. the blessed invitation-“Ho, every one THAT THIRSTETH, come
Rut blessed is the man that hungereth and thirsteth, for his we to the waters.” And if they will not come, let them stay
soul Rhall he satisfied through the Divine bounty. ‘Iway until they are ready to. come. In timk they will bi
“Ah I” say some anxious Christians, “but there are so thirsty enough. A similar invitation is repeated in Rev. 22 : 17,
many who have no thirst whatever for the truth, and if we as applying during the millennial age, after the espoused
AUGUST,1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (4-S)

virgin church has become the Bride of Christ-“Whosoev8r tidings, but it must also be the constraining incentive pre-
wiZZ [do not compel, but] LET HIM take the water of life sented to those whom we would have to receive God’s favors.
freely.” God’s blessings are favors, and will never be forced upon any.
God does not now compel any to accept his great favor A zeal according to knowledge will therefore never resort
to be made the bride of Christ, neither in the age to come to those unreasonable and undignified proceedings which make
will he compel any to accept the favor of everlasting life. religion a by-word, and bring upon the cause of Christ re-
But, if when it is offered, they ~611 have it, 0 how freely they proach. There is nothing in the religion of Jesus Christ which
may have it-“He that hath no money; come ye, buy and is out of harmony with the soundest reason and the most re-
eat . . . . without money and without price.” fined judgment. Its methods, according to the Scriptures,
With a full conviction of the love and bountiful provision are not with sounding brass and tinkling cymbals; with ex-
of God’s nlan for all mankind. Jesus could. during his min- travagant words and actions that bring the children of God
istry, ignore the Gentiles, and devote all his energieg to Israel, down to the level of those they seek to reach; no, its methods
and particularly to those among them who were anxious to are as dignified, ennobling and elevating as are the precious
know the truth; and he could tell his disciples to begin at truths it bears. And both the truth and the truth-bearer,
Jerusalem and not to enter into any city of- the Sam&tans who follows in the Master’s footsteps, will command the rev-
until first the Gosnel had been nroclaimed to Israel. So now, erence, even though they incur the persecution of men.
with equal composure and tru&, we can devote ourselves to Of Jesus it was said: “He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor
the work of the present, and carry no care about that part cause his voice to be heard in the street.” (Isa. 42:2.) We
of Cfod’s work which lies beyond the present. are not heard, either by God or men, for our much speaking
Wherever we find a thirsty, hungry soul, a hearing ear, (Matt. 6 :7) ; therefore let us endeavor to present God’s truth
and a meek and quiet spirit, there is our work. The harvest in all its native simplicity and beauty, and trust its inherent
work (in which time we are living) is to seek out and min- power to win its way in due time to every heart.
ister to the necessities of such; and it is a work in which “Now, then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God
the humblest saint may engage. The few or many talents did beseech by us;” therefore, as his faithful servants we
may be carefully utilized. But the love of God must be not should sneciallv studv and conform to his methods.
only the constraining motive of him who would bear the glad MBS. C. T. R.

FALSE HUMILITY
“Ever learning, but never able to come to the knowleoge of the truth.,‘-2 Tim. 3:7.
One of the most serious and dangerous besetments of the the other features as we can obtain bv communion of saints
adversary is an exaggeration of the truth. It seems to be one in the study of the Testimony, and we have the promise of
of his most successful methods against the saints. .Thus faith full harmonv ultimatelv amona all true watchmen in Zion.
is exaggerated into credulity, reverence into fear, the wages Our desire and vigilance to a&ertain the mind of God on
of sin into torture, and humility into mental listlessness, doubt even the details must not be relaxed, else we cease to grow
aud uncertainty. in knowledge, and cease to do our shore in bringing the body
Under the influence of this false humility, how many take of Christ as a whole into the perfection of knowledge most
pride in saying on nearly all important religious subjects, “I beneficial to it and most pleasing to God.
tie to no man’s opinion, and have none of m own-1 want But if those who attempt to teach the Church differ, how
only the truth.” They consider this a saintly E umility, which shall I decide? says another.
never reaches any conclusion, for fear they should be consid- That God has been nleased throuahout the entire aee to
ered bigoted. They say they are seeking truth, but if so, they use some members of the body as chinnels through which to
never know when they find it, and might as well not have send truth to the bodv. is unouestionable: and that Satan
sought. These are covered by the language of our text-“Ever has adopted much the &me plan to deceive’ and spread error
learning, but never able to come to [arrive at] the knowledge in the Church, is also evident, not only from facts, but from
of the truth.” Such, because not rooted and erounded in faith, Scripture statements. It would bc a serious error. then. to
are always tossed to and fro-“carried about with every wind believe anything because a would-be teacher wishes you’ to.
of doctrine.” (Eph. 4: 14.) To do so. would be to thro’w awav chart and comnass and let
But, says one, since I find that so much which I once be- your faith drift before the changing winds of piejudice and
lieved is error, I never believe anything very strongly, and preference, and would, sooner or later, make ship-wreck of
am afraid to become rooted and grounded, lest it be again a faith.
rooting into error. Besides, I see so many rooted and ground- A teacher is of value only as an instrument of the Spirit
ed in error so firmly, that the truth cannot shake them. Ah, of God in bringing all things to your remembrance and notice,
w ; it is the same snare of the adversary; in spite of him whatsoever things were written for our instruction in the
you have gotten free from some of the error, but he drives Scriptures. Whatsoever is more than this cometh of the evil
to the other edreme to hinder you from ever getting so one and tendeth to evil. The duty and office of a lawyer is
grounded in truth that you would be able to stand the storm, not to make laws, but to clearly set forth the law and present
let alone assist others to stand. to the jury its bearing upon the case discussed; so also, the
Can you not see the difference between being rooted and duty of a minister of the Gospel is not to make truth, but to
grounded in the teachings of a fallible church creed, a set of cite” the TESTIMONY, and quot6 the covenants, and show their
man-made doctrines and traditions, and, on the other hand, bearing upon any subject discussed; and the duty of the
being rooted and grounded in the statements of God’s Word, Church as of the jury is to decide each for himself what is
statements, too, which do not contradict, but, by their harmony the mind of the written and established law.
and oneness, support each other, and, bv their reasonableness, True, this is not the common idea regarding the ministers
appeal to your -judgment as being the kuth? (servants) of the church. On the cont.&y, <heir testimony
The expression of some-“1 drive no stakes”-is bad. We is taken so imolicitlv that it takes the ulace laraelv of God’s
should drive stakes; the man who will not do so will have testimony, and’ thusY the law of God i$ made v>id, and the
his tent of faith overturned by the first windy doctrine the traditions and theories of the teachers are received instead.
adversary brings upon it. They should be driven in well- It is because you had received and become rooted, and ground-
“grounded” well-in the firm ground of God’s Word. The ed in such teachings of men unsupported by the word of God
Word of God certainly calls for faith, strong faith, settled that you had so much to unlearn and break loose from. We
faith, grounded and well rooted, and without such it is im- urge, then, thnt doctrines be received, not because of the teach-
possible to please God. All the Scripture writers had a posi- er,-but because tried and found to be the teachings of God’s
tive faith and expressed it in a positive manner, and called word. “Beloved. believe not everv snirit [mind. or doctrine.
upon us to receive the same and be established IN-THE TRUTH. or theory] but try the spirits [doctrines]‘ whether they are
But if those who seem to hold at least a measure of what of God.” (1 John, 4:l.) B u t mark well, that the Apostle’s
we think Scriptural views, in common, shall differ on the words, “Bclitwe vat evcrzl doctrine” gives no sunnort to that
minor details of truth, what then ? We answer, that while we FALSE CAUTION which never fully b&eves anything, and is
are in the flesh our surroundings may be such as to make never nrounded: for his other words. “TRY the snirits Idoc-
some of the details of truth appear somewhat differently for trinesl- whether’ they be of God,,’ shows that it is’ a duty to
a time, but as we each approach closer and closer to God’s DECIDE whether the doctrine is Scriptural or unscriptural. Tn
standpoint in viewing the matter, our ideas of the details will “prove all things” and to “hold FAST that which is good,” is
become more distinct and more harmonious. a statement of similar import. But some would rather be
It is harmony and fimedness on the FUNDAMENTAL features always ztnwtlled than go to the necessarv labor of ‘*pro~.i,rc”
of truth that Scripture demands, with so much harmony 0x1 by diligent study of the Scripture what ‘is good and what ‘is
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erroneous doctrine. Verily, they have their reward. Their The pathway of the just will shine more and more
inditference will expose them to error, of which the adversary until perfect day is reached, but it is a sad mistake of some
will not be slow to take advantage. If thou searchest for to suppose that they must be ever changing, ever discarding
her as men search for silver then shalt thou find the knowl- yesterday’s light for tomorrow’s. The light is added to, but
edge of God. (Prov. 2:4.) “Light is sown for the righteous.” never needs EXCHANQINQ. If we receive as light nothing
( 1%~. 9i : 11) , but for no others; and that heart is not right, which we do not first prove by the Testimony we will have
and that soul not really truth-hungry, which, knowing the nothing to throw away, but may both hold fast the good and
necessity of labor to prove all things, neglects It. add to the same daily.

BE NOT QUICKLY MOVED

“Contmue in the faith, grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel.“-Cal. 1:23.
This shu\\~ that the Apostle thought it necessary to guard saints of all ages has been built, and from which we refuse
the Church against the adversary’s beguilements, by which to be “moved away” until these are crushed to powder-
he would hare them “move away” their faith-building from which we think will never be-are as follows:
the TRUE FOLJKDATION. That there was a tendency & that Isaiah says-“All we like sheep have gone astray; we
direction, and that some did leave the true Gosnel foundation, have turned every one to his own way, and the Lord hath laid
is evidenced by Paul’s words to the Galatians - ( 1:6-12.) He on HIM the iniquity of us all . . . . He was cut off out of
here shows also that those teachers who were attempting their the land of the living; for the transgression of my people was
removal to “ANOTHER GOSPEL" were making him (Paul) the he stricken. And he let his grave be made with the wicked,
center of their attack upon the true glad tidings. It is here and with the (Godless) rich at his death, although he had
that he uses that very positive language, “If any man preach done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth. But
any other gospel [present any other foundation for faith] the Lord was pleased to crush him through disease: when
u&o you thin *that -ye tive received, let him be accursed.” (now) his soul hath brought the trespass-offering, then shall
It is evident that the Apostle did not refer to the Galatian he see his seed, live many days, and the pleasure of the Lord
Church as having received-all truth on all subjects, nor all shall prosper in his hand. . . . Throueh his knowledge shall
knouAedge of God’s revelation, for he always exhorts to study my riihtebus servant bring the many “to riihteousnesi, while
of the Scripture in order to growth in grace and knowledge. he will bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him (a
While all truth is related, and, therefore, all truth is “gl%d portion) with the many, and with the strong will he divide
tidinps.” or Gosnel. vet in the sense in which the Apostle the spoil; because he poured out his soul unto death, and
uses -tthe word, it his not so extended a meaning; bit he with transgressors was he numbered, while he bore the sin of
refers it, evidently, to the FOUNDATION upon which all faith many, and for the transgressors he let (evil) befall him.”
and hope must rest and build. Is it not evident, then, that Isa. 53:6-12, K. J. and Leeser’s Translations.
he refers to the Redemption which is in Christ Jesus? the Jesus said : “I lay down my life for the sheep.” . . . .
same which he elsewhere states as the sum of all his preach- “No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself.”
ing: “I delivered unto you first of all, that which I also John 10:15, 18.
received [first], how that Christ died for OUR SINS according Paul said: “I delivered unto you first of all, that which
to the Scriptures.” ( 1 Cor. 15:3.) I also received [first of all], how that Christ died for OUR
This is the kernel of all the glad tidings; for had it not SINS according to the Scriptures.” 1 Cor. 15:3. “Being justified
been for the redemption through his blood, the forgiveness by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.”
of sins, nothing else could ever be glad tidings. Hence we Iiom. 5:9. “We have redemption through his bloodu.” Eph.
should take heed not to be removed from the Gospel-this 1:7. “Christ hath redeemed us from th.e curse of the law. be-
foundation of all hope and true faith. ing made a curse for us.” Gai. 3: 13. “Since by mLcc1zc’ame
We live in a time when the foundation is being attacked death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.” 1
by some in the church. It is becoming popular to say, I be- Cor. 15:21. “There is one God and one mediator between God
lieve that Christ died, but not that he died for our sins. and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom
Then the attempt is made to ignore and turn aside those for all. to be testified in due time.” 1 Tim. 2:5. 6. “When
statements of Prophets and Apostles which tell how the Lord we were yet without strength, in due time Chr% died for
laid upon him the iniquity of us all, and that he died the the ungodly. . . . . For if by one man’s offense death reigned
just for the unjust to bring us to God. Meanwhile they will by one, much more, they which receive abundance of grace
ask you to examine the beauty of another theory-built upon and of the gift. of righteousness, shall reign in life by one.
another foundation. They say, instead of the foundation that Jesus Christ. For, as by one man’s disobedience many were
“Christ died for OUT sins. according to the Scriptures.” let us made sinners, so b?/ the obedience of one, shall manvI be made
substitute an&her-Christ died only as an esakple, according righteous.” Rem.-5:6, IS, 19. ’ ’
to our theory. Then they will proceed to show you how “Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure
beautiful a theory they can build on this other foundation. from the blood of all men; for I have not shunned to declare
But every saint should answer, Stop! go no further. Be- unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed, therefore, unto
fore we can” examine the theory built ;po% your foundation; yourselves and to all the flock, over which the Holv Snirit hath
\\e must be convinced that the Gosnel foundation which Paul made you overseers, to feed the church of God, &hi& he hath
preached, and which we have received, is WRONQ. Then we vurchased with his blood.” Acts. 20~26-28.
must “prove” your foundation, and after that, if all things John said: “He is tge propkiation for our sins, and not
prove that the foundation which we have recaved, and upon for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole worZd.” 1
which the saints of all ages have built, is faulty, and yours John 2:2. “The blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all
right, then we will be prepared to look at and prove the sin.” 1 : 7.
theory built upon it, but not before. But meantime we will Peter said : “Ye know that ye were not redeemed with
“cont\nue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved corruptible things, as silver and gold . . . . but with the
away from the hope of the Gospel” which we “have received”- precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and
even redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, without snot.” 1 Pet. 1:18. 19. “Christ suffered for sins.
T:STIL you shall, piece by piece, examine every one of the the just fh thz unjust, that’he might bring us to God, being
many statements of which our foundation is composed, and put to death in the flesh, but quickened in the spirit.” (3 : 18).
shall have shown us that these statements are all unreliable And the glorified overcoming church exclaims: “Unto him
or mean the reverse of what they say. We proved these testi- that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
monials once, and have been blessed of God in the develop- and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father;
ment of a faith-structure thereupon, and we shall not even to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
need to go back and unsettle faith to prove them again. If “And they &ng” a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take
you CAX DISPROVE them, let us have that evidence, but none the book and to onen the seals thereof: for thou wast slain.
other until then. and hast redeemed-us to God by thy blodd out of every kindred
Some of the foundation stones upon which the faith of the and tongue and people and nation.” Rev. 1:5, 6 and 5:9.

“BIGXESS is not greatness; and he who judges of value publish accounts of crowds which attend, until at last re-
by bulk will find himself seriously mistaken. A boulder is ligious interest deteriorates, being overwhelmed by the tide of
larger than a diamond, but is it as valuable? The passion worldliness. A man who prefers to drink out of a big horse-
for hignc~~~ is found in connection with public assemblies for pond, rather than a little spring, might be pleased with such
divine worship. Meetings are held, and a great effort is made results, but spiritual and discerning Christians have very dif-
to increase their size. Men go for the ‘big meeting.’ They ferent thoughts.“-Selected.
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 READING THE SCRIPTURES W ITH PRAYER
An interview with the Pope, during which the claims of better balanced mind; the reverse of all we have stated then
the Catholic Church had been earnestly pressed, closed with becomes true. Prayer and intellectual activity go on together,
these words : and as on the first sunvosition. thev could not co-exist. I so.,
“Pray, pray for light from the Lord, for grace to acknowl- on this, they cannot be-skparated. ”
edge the truth: because this is the onlv means of attaining But which is the true view7
to”it. Controversy will do no good. In controversy is prid; For a reply we simplv turn to the book and to the Master.
and self-love. People, in controversy, make a parade of their The Jews &me to ddist with their doubts. What was his
knowledge, of their acuteness, and after all, every one con- reply 7 Pray? No! It was, Search the Scriptures: they are
tinues t; hold his own views: Prayer alone gives light and they which testifs of me. (John 5 :39.) Again he said to
strenath for the acauirement of truth and grace. For God them, “I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me
wished that we shoild humble ourselves, a’;d he gives his not.” Why? Because ve do not urav 1 No. ! The cause of
grace to the humble.,’ unbelief is thus stated,* “How can ye believe, which receive
Such is the nrocess bv which uerverts to Rome are multi- honor one of another, and seek not the honor which cometh
plied. Is there not something wrong about it? Are the words from God?” (v. 44.) “To this end was I born, and for this
of Pius. after all. true? We think not. In similar tones and cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto
language, many an old Rabbi would, in our Lord’s time, have the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.,’
addressed a young disciple of Christ, in order to win him back (John 18:37.)
to the old faith: and. in similar tones, manv a self-satisfied Paul, at Thessalonica, when dealing with unbelievers, does
religionist still warns -and rebukes the inquiring spirit. not call upon them to pray; but “as his munner wa.v, went in
But wherein is it wrona? Is it not true that our first dutv unto them and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of
is to *pray- for !ight and g&e7 Unquestionably it is. Further”; the Scriotures,” (Acts 17:2.) So, again, at Corinth, “he
is it not true that, for the most part, in controversy there is reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath day, and persuaded
much nride and self-love7 and that men eneaaed in it often the Jews and the Greeks,” (18 :4.) Again at Ephesus, we are
seek rather to display their acuteness than &ything else? It told “he entered into the svnaaoaue and reasoned with the
cannot be disputed that such is too frequently the case. Where- ‘Jews.” And so before Felix, h> %easoned of righteousness,
in, then. lies the error7 For if it be an error, it is one that is temperance and judgment to come” till “Felix trembled.”
sh’ared by thousands of Protestants in the present day, who (24:25.)
are constantlv teachina that all controversv is evil: that doubt Nor was his method different with believers. Complain-
is sinful ; that free inquiry inevitably lead; to skepticism ; and ing of some, that, when they “ought to have been teachers,”
that he who would arrive at Truth, must do so by abasing his it was needful to teach them “which be the first urincinles of
rational faculties. and by reading his Bible on his knees, rather the oracles of God,” he adds, “Strong meat belongeth to them
than in his library; in” the light of devotion, rather than in that are of full age, even those who. bu reason of use. have
that of research: with the intellect at rest. rather than alert their senses exercised to discern both good and evil,‘, ’(Heb.
and quickened; with prayer, rather than with careful study. 5: 14; ) i. e., their faculties exercised by practice in the dis-
The error lies in the supposition implied, rather than ex- tinguishing of truth from error.
pressed, that devout submission and intellectual activity are How different in this particular was the conduct of the
somewhat opposed to each other; that the two Jannot, if each Apostle before his conversion. He then prayed and persecuted;
be quickened, co-exist, the one being destructive of the other: while Stephen and other Christians, though ever living in the
and that consequently, free inquirers must, as a rule, be a atmosphere of prayer, reasoned out of the Scriptures. Saul
prayerless race. But is it true that the intellect and the and the priests, like the popes, supplicated God and threat-
devout affections are thus opposed ? that research and prayer ened man. Stephen the martyr studied, and quoted and fol-
cannot really go on together? lowed the written Word. The persecutor would have nothing
The answer to the ouestion must denend on the character to do with controversy.
of the prayer supposed-to be offered. If, with some eminent After his conversi&, Paul, as we all know, became a great
modern divines. he regards the faith for which he entreats to controversialist. Some of his epistles-that to the Galatians
be “a new fac&y,,, ‘?a Divine capacity,” imparted only as a for example-are almost wholly controversial. Before his
sovereign gift, it then follows, of course, that the more passive great change, we look in vain for a single argument’ against
he is, the better; that creaturely activity, as it is sometimes heresy; for then, like the Papal chief, he only “breathed out
called, is a hindrance to the reception of the divine blessing; threatenings and slaughter.” It was not till he became a
and that prayer stands in direct opposition to the exercise of Christian that he felt the necessity of giving “a reason for
reason. the hope that was in him,” (Acts 17 :2. 17.)
This has always been the doctrine of the Church of Rome. No&here in Scripture,. either from the iips of Christ or
It manifests itself most in the most devout of her children. It his Apostles, is prayer set before us as the medium by and
is the distinguishing characteristic of the ouietists and mvstics through which divine light [truth] is to be obtained. Everv-
in her communion Gf all ages; and it has always had a charm where we are taught to- pray for a right state of heart, for
for devout Protestants of mediative temnerament. who do not pardon, for purity, for temporal and eternal good, for friends,
perceive the poison that it embodies. ?rotestants also, be- for enemies, for all men, for a blessing from above on faithful
lieving like the Romanists, that God requires them to pray teachers of the Gospel; but nowhere for a new faculty, or that
and wait for a light above and bevond any that thev can pet which amounts to the same thing. No such petition occurs
by the use of their rational faculties, h”owever much th&e in the prayer Jesus taught his disciples. Would we know
may be disciplined by labor or purified by a right state of God’s will we are to be babes. as distinauished from the wise
heart, try to lay aside reason, in order that they may passively and prudent of this world: we are to by? obedient children : to
receive from above “the truth as it is in Jesus.” They never seek -for a renewed nature; for a wise and understanding
consider that, from the course thev are taking, thev will neces- heart; for a single eve; for the fear of God: and for strenoth .a
sarily be acted upon by forces, which, however divine they may and assistance in’ the fulfillment of every duty.
deem them, are really as human as any by which they are in Far be it from us to deny that, in one sense-the true and
other ways affected. scriptural sense-light from heaven is essential to all of us.
But let us suppose another case. Let us suppose that the Our* ignorance is often felt to be oppressive, our perplexities
praying man expects his answer from God in another form; so harassing. that it would be crushine indeed to one’s soirit
I I,

that he has not the slightest expectation of obtaining light to feel that we were forbidden to pray‘for light. But not in
anart from the vigorous use of his faculties: that as. when the Pope’s sense can we rightly do so. The light we need, and
h;? asks God for daily bread, he only expects’to receive it in the light God warrants us to expect, is that of love and nuritv.
the form of a blessina on his industrv. his skill. his nerse- freedom from pride, prejudice, self-interest, and sin-in’ shor”ti
verance, and his trust %r God ; so, in sp&5tual things, if, ‘when the indwellinn of the Holv Soirit.
he prays that the eyes of his understanding may be opened, In the Old Testamen; we are taught to “cry after knowl-
he expects his answer only in the form of that eye-salve edge, and to lift up our voice for understanding,” but it is in
(humility) with which the eye must be anointed, if it would connection with seeking after it as the miner seeks for silver,
see (Rev. 3:18,)-in the form of purification from the various by long and unwearied toil.
phases of evil that darken and becloud the faculties of a sin- [Instructed bv a careful studv of the Word. lirht will
ful man; if he bear in mind the words of his Lord-“If thine come in by the rkmovnl of obstacles. and by increasing faith
eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light ;” if he in God’s promises. Thus, the eyes of our understanding being
look, therefore, for his answer in growing freedom from opened, we m,ay comprehend with all saints more of the hei.ght
prejudice, in a greater breadth of charity, in a more loving ap- and depth, the length and breadth of God’s love as eshibrted
preciation of truth and goodness; and consequently (a neces- in his plan and Word.-Ed.]
sary consequence,) through the reception of these “fruits of Paul prayed for his ronrerts. that the word of Christ
the Spirit,” to have a clearer intellect, a sounder judgment, a might dwell in them richly, (Col. 3 : 16 ; ) that they might hold
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 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

fast that which is good, (1 Thea. 5:21;) that they might be structor. It yields its treasures to the consecrated, the studious.
filled with the knowledge of God’s will, (Col. 1:9, 10;) but What, then, do we learn from the whole? We learn that
all these petitions are but so many forms of desire for their in the acquisition. of truth, prayer occupies precisely the same
sanctification, for increase of grace, and for the planting position that it does in relation to the acquisition of bread;
within them of holy principles and dispositions. In not a that as God now showers not bread from heaven as he did
single instance does he direct them to pray for such blessings in the wilderness, so he showers not truth upon our minds as
as direct gifts from heaven: but alwavs to watch, to search. he did upon the Apostles. And in each case for the same rea-
to be faithful to duty, to love truth, and to follow it at all son, because it is not requisite. The laborer has now what
risks. not doubting but that in this nath thev would find it. the Israelite in the desert had not,-the opportunity of gain-
We have said iothing as to the danger of praying over the ing his bread bv the sweat of his face: and th.e (7hristian has
Rible. with the unconscious desire to find ourselves right. Yet & what the Christian in apostolic days had nota complete
nothing is more common; and it is certain Lliat he who does revelation of the will of God in his hand, and nothing to
so, will generally succeed.in obtaining the object of his wishes. hinder his understanding of it as it becomes due. save his
It is the same with Philosonhv. If vou have a strone wish to worldliness, selfishness, and sin.
find phenomena such as to* confirm “the conjectures you have For the removal of these hindrances let us pray and labor
formed, and allow that wish to bias your examination, you earnestly, assured that only so far as they are supplanted by
are ill-fitted for interrogating nature. So it is with tne Bible. the Holy Spirit of God shall we be able to discern wondrous
Revelation is to be interrogated not as a witness but as an in- things in the Divine Law. H. DUNN.

PARABLE OF THE SHEEP AND GOATS

hIATT. 25 : 31-46
It has been truly said, that order is heaven’s first law; Christ, and in their appointed time and order, the dead of
yet few, we think, have realized how emphatically this is true. all nations shall be called to appear before the judgment
In glancing back- over the plan of the ages, there is nothing seat of Christ-not to receive an immediate sentence, but to
which gives such conclusive evidence of a Divine Director as receive a fair and impartial trial, under the most favorable
the order observed in all its parts. circumstances, the result of which trial will be a final sentence,
As we have seen. God has had definite and stated times and as worthy or unworthy of everlasting life.
seasons for every dart of his work; and in the end of each The scene of this parable, then, is laid after the time of
of these seasons-there was a finishing up of that work and a trouble and after the exaltation of the “little flock” to the
clearine: off of the rubbish, nrenaratorv to the beginning of the throne, when the nations have been subdued, Satan bound
new w&k of the dispensation to follow: Thus in ‘the end of the (Rev. 20:2) and the authority of Christ’s kingdom established.
first dispensation (from creation to the flood), which, as we The Bride of Christ, ere this, will have been seated with him
have seen, was placed under the control of the angels, there in his throne, and will have taken part in executing the
was a finishing work-an exhortation through Noah to for- judgments
_ - of the great dav of wrath. Now the Son of man
sake sin and turn to righteousness, and a warning of certain appears (is made manifest-) to the world “in his glory,” and
retribution. And when the full end, of the time allotted for together Jesus and his Bride “shine forth as the sun in the
that dispensation had come, there was a selection and saying kingdom of their Father.” (Matt. 13:4X)
of all that was worth saving and a clean sweeping destruction Here is the New derusalem as John saw it, (Rev. 21,)
of all the refuse; and with that which remained a new dis- “that holy city [symbol of government] . . . . coming down
pensation began. from God- out of heaven.” During all the time of trouble it
In the end of the Jewish dispensation the same thing is was coming down, and now it has touched the earth. This is
observed-a harvesting and complete separation of the wheat the stone cut out of the mountains (kingdoms of earth) with-
class from the chaff, and an entire rejection of the latter class out hands, (but by the power of God,7 and now it has he-
from God’s favor. With the few judged worthy in the end come a great mountain, (kingdom,) and has filled the whole
of that age, a new dispensation began; and now we find our- earth, (Dan. 2:35.) its coming having broken to pieces (Dan.
selves amidst the closing scenes (the harvest) of this Gospel 2:34. 35) the evil kingdoms of the Prince of darkness.
dispensation. The wheat and tares which have grown together Here is that glorious city, (government,) prepared as a
during this age are being separated. And with the former bride adorned for her husband, (Rev. 21:2,) and the nations
class, of which Jesus is the head, a new dispensation is about are beginning to walk in the light of it. (ver. 24.) These may
to be inaugurated, and these are to reign as kings and priests bring their glory and honor into it, hut thcrc shall in no
in that new disnensation, while the tare element is judged - - as wise enter into it (or become a part of it) anything that
utterly unworthy of that favor. defileth, etc. (ver. 27.) Here, from the midst of the throne.
As a skilled mechanic or artisan DUtS on the finishing proceeds a pure river of water of life, (truth unmixed with
touches and brushes away the refuse materials from one parx error,) and the Suirit and the Bride sav. Come. and take it
of his work preparatory to the beginning of another part, so freely: (Rev. 22:17.) Here begins the world’:, probation, the
God has made a full end of each dispensation, preserving the world’s great *judgment day-a thousand vears.
finished work and casting off the refuse. - - But even m this favored time of blessing and healing of
While observina this order with reference to the disnensa- the nations, when Satan is bound, evil restrained, mankind
tions past and the one just closing, our Lord informs us released from the grasp of death, and when the knowledge of
through the parable under consideration, that the same order the Lord fills the earth, two classes will be develoned, which
will be observed with reference to the dispensation to follow Jesus, in this parable, likens to sheep and goats. - These, he
this. tells us, he will separate. The sheep class-those who are
The harvest of the *Jewish age was likened to the separation meek, teachable and willing to be led, shall, during the age,
of wheat from chaff: the harvest of this age to the senaration be gathered at the Judge’s rieht hand-svmbol of the Judge’s
of wheat from tare;; and the harvest of’ the Millennial age approval ; but the goatvclass,“self-willed and stubborn, alw&s
to the separation of sheep from goats. climbing on the rocks-seeking prominence and approval
That this parable refers to the hlillennial age is clearly among men-and feeding on miserable refuse. while the sheen
indicated in veric? 31 and 32-“ Il’hen the Son of man shall graze-in the rich pastures of truth furnished by the Good
come in his gZor?/. and all the holy angels with’ him, THEN Shepherd, these are gathered to the Judge’s left hand opposite
=hnll he sit unon the throne of his glorv. and before him shall the position of favor-as subjects of his disfavor.
be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from In the end of the Millennial age, in the final adjustment of
another, as a shrnhcrtl dirideth his sheen from the goats.” human affairs, Jesus thus addresses his sheep: “Come ye
-1s in the nresent ape, everv act of those on trial (the Church) blessed . . . . inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the
goes to make a part, of thnt character which in due time will foundation of the world.” What kinadorn? Was not the
determine the final decision of the Judge in our case. so will kingdom under the whole heavens given”to the saints? (Dan.
It 11~2 with the world (the nations) in the age to con& As in 7:22.)
the prrqent age, the trial of the majority of the individual Yes, as we have heretofore seen, a “little flock.” “the
memhcrs of the church ends, and the decision of their case is saints,” the overcoming “sheep” of the Gospel age, having fol-
renched long before the end of the age (2 Tim. 4:7, 8) ; so lowed the Lamb (Jesus) whithersoever he went, through evil
under the 1lillcnnial reirn. the decision of some individual and through good report, even to the sacrificing of the human
cases will hr ranched long’ before the end of the age (Isa. life, with him have been exalted to the divine nature, and to
65-29) ; but In hoth ages there is a harvest or general separa- the throne of the spiritual, unseen kingdom, and He (the
tion tirnra in thrh end of the age. Christ, head and bodv) must reign, till he has put all enemies
Tn thca dawn of the Millennial age, after the “time of under his feet, (1 Cor. 15:25.) The saints shall reign with
trnuhl(;” thrre will he a gathering of the living nations before Christ a thousand years, (Rev. 20:6.)
[6541
AUGUST, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (7)

Jesus calls believers of the Gospel age who know and obey be of those who lived before the Gospel Church had an exist-
his voice, his sheep. But he says, Other sheep I have which ence: and others will have been born during the Millennial
are not of this fold (referring to those who should become age, ‘after the Gospel Church has been exalted and no longer
his followers in the Millennial age,) them also I must lead needs their ministry.
(into truth and righteousness during that age,) and there The brethren of the Gospel Church then are not the only
shall be one fold and one shepherd. Jesus and the “little brethren of Christ. All who at that time will have been re-
flock,” the Bride, united as one, will be the Good Shepherd, stored to perfection, will be recognized as sons of God; sons
who will lead mankind into the one fold of safety-harmony in the same sense that Adam was a son of God. (Luke 3:38)
with God. -humcc7t sons. And all of God’s sons whether on the human,
This gradual work of separating sheep and goats will re- the angelic, or the divine planes, are BRETHREN. Jesus’ love
quire all of the Millennial age for its accomplishment. During for these, his brethren, is here expressed. As the world will
that age, each individual as he comes gradually to a knowl- now have opportunity to minister to those who are shortly
edge of God and his will. bv conforming or not conforming to be the divine sons of God, and brethren of Christ, so they
thzreto, takes his place at’th;? right hand-of favor, or the leff will have abundant opportunity during the age to come to
hand of disfwor according as he improves or misimproves the minister to (each other) the human brethren.
opportunities of that golden age. By the end of that age, The dead nations when again brought into existence will
all the world of mankind (not the present Church) will have need food, and raiment, and shelter. However great may have
arranged themselves, as shown in the parable, into two classes. been their possessions in this life. death will have brought all
As in nature, sheep are far more numerous than goats, SO to a common level: the infant and the man of maturer-years,
we doubt not that with the perfect knowledge then possessed, the millionaire and the uauuer. the learned and the unlearned.
the sheep company will far outnumber the goats. the cultured and the ignorant ‘and degraded. and all will have
With the end of that age is the end of tne world’s trial, an abundant opportunity for the exercise of benevolence, and
or judgment, and final disposition is made of the two classes. thus thev will be urivileaed to be co-workers with God. We
The goats who have not developed the element of love-the are here” reminded- of t,& illustration given in the case of
law of God’s being and kingdom-are not counted worthy of Lazarus: Jesus only awakened him from death, and then per-
life. and must be de&roved. while the sheep who have de- mitted the rejoicing friends to loose him from his grave
veloped, and by deeds exhibited God-likeness ilove) are to be clothes and clothe him and feed him.
installed as the rulers of earth for future ages. Further. these are said to be “sick and in urison.” fMore
The work of restitution will not be Quite complete until the properly, under ward or watch.) The grave is ihe great prison
great mass of mankind, having been iestored -to the perfect where the millions of humanity have been held in unconscious
condition. is re-invested with the dominion of earth as POS- captivity; but when released from the grave, the restoration
sessed by’Adam before sin entered, as God had said, “After-our to perfection is not an instantaneous work. Being not yet per-
likeness let him have dominion over the fish of the sea, and fect, they may properly be termed siclc and under zaard.
over the fowl of the air, over the cattle and over all the earth, Thev are not dead, neither are thev vet nerfect; and any con-
. . . . and over every living thing that moveth upon the dition between those two is properly ialled sick. And the”y will
earth”-a ruler over earth, like as God is ruler over all things. continue to be under watch or ward until made well-uhvsi-
And the Psalmist expresses the same idea, saving, Thou hast tally, mentally, and morally perfect. During that time*there
made man a little lower than the angels and hast crowned will be abundant opportunity for mutual helpfulness, sym-
him with glory and honor; thou madest him to have dominion pathy, instruction and encouragement.
over the works of thy hands. (Ps. 8:5-8.) The dominion is Since mankind will not all be raised at once, but in sepa-
not to be over each other, for when the law of love controls rate ranks or orders ( 1 Cor. 15:23) during the thousand years,
human hearts, there will be no necessity for dominion over one each new rank will find an armv of helpers in those who will
another, though by mutual consent, promuted by love, regula- have preceded them. The love and benevolence which men
tions may be made among themselves for the common good will then show to each other (the brethren of Christ) the
and bless’ing of all. King will count as shown to him: No great deeds are asssigned
This, then, is the kingdom that has been preparing for as the ground for the honors and favors conferred upon-the
MANKIND from the foundation of the world. It was expedi- righteous; they have simply come into harmony with God’s
ent that man should suffer six thousand years under* the law--love-and proved it by their works. “Love is the ful-
dominion of evil. to learn its inevitable results. miserv and fillina of the law” (Rom. 13:lO). and “God is love.” so. when
death, and in order bv contrast to prove the iustice, wisdom man ‘is restored again to the im&e of God-“very good”-man
and goodness of God’s’law--love. Then it requires the seventh, also will be love.
thousand vears under the region of Christ. to restore him from Then follows the message to those on the left-“Deuart
ruin and “death, to the perfect condition; thereby fitting him from me ye cursed (condemued) “-condemned as unfit veisels
to inherit the kingdom prepared for him from the foundation for the glory and honor of life, who would not yield to the
of the world. mouldinp and shaping influences of divine love. When these
This kingdom in which all are kings, will really be a my brethren were hungry, and thirsty, naked, sick, and in
GRAND REPUBLIC. whose stabilitv and blessed influence will be prison. ve ministered not to their necessities. thus continuallv
assured, by the ‘perfection of e;ery member, which result now proving” yourselves out of harmony with ihe heavenly city
so much desired is almost an impossibility. The kingdom of (kingdom) for “there shall in no case enter into it anything
the saints is on the contrary a Theocracy which will rule the that defileth.” The decision and sentence regarding this class
world (during the period of its imperfection and restoration) is, “Depart from me into everlasting fire [s-ymbol-of destruc-
without regard to their consent or approval. tionl DreDared for the devil and his anoels.” Elsewhere (Heb.
But the righteous will inquire why they are crowned with 2: 14) 1 we read in plain language thit Christ “will de&o?/
such glory, honor and dominion. And the Lord replies: “I him that has the power of death that is the devil.” And
was hungry, and you fed me : thirsty, and you gave me drink ; the’lake of fire is defined to be the second death (Rev. 20:14).
I was a stranger, and you took me in; naked, and you clothed “And these [the goats] go away into everlasting punish-
me; I was sick, and you visited me; in prison, and you came ment [cutting off-Disglott--rutting off from life] but the
unto me. righteous into life eternal.” The punishment is as lasting as
“Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when the reward. The rewsrd is eve&sting life; the punishment
saw we thee hunerv. <, .,, and fed theeY or thirstv. and gave thee is to be forever cut off from life-everlastiner death: a death
drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and “took th<e inY or from which there will be no redemption, no resurrection.
naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in To the sheep it is said, “Inherit the kingdom prepared for
prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer you from the foundation of the world.” But though God give
and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye it to man at first, and designs restoring it to him when he
have done it unto one of the least of these mv” brethren. , Y ve has prepared him for the great trust, we are not to suppose
have done it unto me.” that God intends man to rule it except as under or in harmonv
Let us notice who these are that Jesus calls his brethren, with his supreme law. “Thy will be done in earth as it i’s
and in what sense the evils here named mav be true of them. done in heaven,” must forever be the rule.
We observe, first, that Jesus is addressing all the sheeu or Man henceforth will rule his dominion in hnrmonv with
the righteous class. in the end of the Millennial age. Then the law ot heaven-delighting continually to do his will “in
all of that class will have had opportunity to minister to the whose favor is life. and at whose right hand rcondition of
necessities of the Lord’s brethren. Jesus calls the Church of favor] there are pleasures forevermore.” (Ps.‘ 16:ll.) 0
the Gospel age his brethren (Matt. 12:49, 50,) but all of the who would not sap. “Haste thee along ages of glory,” and give
sheep class then addressed, will not have had opportunity to nlorv and hnnor to him whose loving ulnns are blossoming cI
Y ‘

minister to those brethren. Millions of the sheep class will into”such fullness of blessing!
 MUTTERINGS OF THE COMING STORM
We clip from papers of recent date the following suggestive battalions, would turn out, and then, would capitalists and
items. which eive fresh evidence of the general unrest and landlords see who was stronger of the two! [Terrific ap-
forebodings of’ evil to come. Again and” again we are re- plause.] ”
minded of the prediction of our Lord, that the powers of the We see that the ‘terrific applause’ came in just at the
heavens shall be shaken, and that men’s hearts shall fail them point where blood became visible.
for fear, and for looking after those things that are coming Morgan, who spoke in English, did not have a good show
on the earth. to unload himself, but said in substance that socialists de-
The problems of the nresent hour baftle the wisdom and manded that their condition be measured by the possibilities
skill of statesmen, and w’ith an increasing emphasis demand that surrounded them. Thev were dissatisfied with the exist-
their attention. Divine wisdom alone can adiust the tangled ing condition of affairs. At” one end of the social system was
problem of human affairs. But we rejoice to”know that aYfter Vanderbilt, and at the other the tramp. Both must be done
ihe storm shall have reached its climax and spent its force, away with, and to accomplish this, land, railroads, manufac-
men will be nrenared for a better order of things, and then turers, tools and machinery should be made the common prop-
they shall &cog&e the Son of man coming in’ power and erty of the people, and not be controlled bv a few.
great glory; and will be prepared to submit to his rightful “This was e&rely too tame a stateGent to arouse en-
authority. thusiasm among the revolutionists, but he was followed by
SOCIALISM-ITS DANQERS Grottkau, who pleased them better. In his opinion, socialists
“Jusf how long the questions raised by American socialists should attain their ends by a physical revolution, and should
and so-called 1Rnd reformers of the Henry George stripe can be do so at once. He was opposed to their taking a part in poli-
kept out of politics is more than can be told. yet it would be tics, but wanted a revolution, pure and simnle, with Dlentv of
foolish to ignore their existence or keep ignorant of their dynamite and gunpowder. Alexander Kernike believed in
nature. Socialism is a subject that has received very little educating the working neode in the nrincinles of socialism.
attention from our students or legislators. Its aims are illy and in ‘their particiFat&h in politic& A revolution must
understood. The popular rye haq seen little more than a dis- surely come about, but they were not prepared for it at
contented lot of fierce sans-culottes and the ear heard only present.
their wild and incoherent ravings. About all that is knol& These are samples of teachings and expressions that are
of them is that socialists would tear the present order of being inculcated and find utterance in most of our laree cities.
things to pieces if they only had the power. Sunday’s Globe- The& certainly ought to be some definite informatio: in the
Democrat contains an ‘interview with T. V. Powderlv..I , General hands of the authorities as to the extent to which these senti-
Master Workman of the Knights of Labor, an organization of ments are entertained among workingmen. We have an un-
workingmen that hears 900,000 on its rolls, and Gas an active fortunate habit of letting things run until they are practically
membershin of full 600.000. ‘Do vou think that labor now en- beyond contro1.
joys the rihh;hte that belong to it ?;’questioned the reporter. We The city of New York did so with the Boss Tweed Ring.
quote the reply: The nation-did the same with the propagation of States Righ&
“ ‘We do not. The condition of the workinn classes is trulv doctrines. and it resulted in the most tremendous war of
deplorable in many respects, and I very m&h fear there is modern times. We have done the same with Mormonism, till
trouble ahead. Canital must learn to rewnect the claims of now it is fairly entrenched in the heart of he continent,. and
labor, and that so&. If not we shall have revolution. It is is able to bid defiance to the Lepislature and moral forces of
no use to be mealv-mouthed about the situation. Talk of com- the Republic. U’ith these exam$es before us, it is certainly
munism ! That amounts to nothing. The relations between unwise to continue the laissez faire system with so active,
the capitalists and the workingmen are all wrong, and they seductive and dangerous a thing as socialism.
must be riehted. It is our mission to do a.s much to this end THE DYNAMITE SOAROE IN LONDON
as we can.- When Gen. GrRnt came back to this country after LONDON, June 22.-The Irish leaders in London just now
going abroad, he spoke of the asphaltum pavement. !&at he seem to be anxiously awaiting some expected development of
said was what was needed-that and Gatline euns. and then an extraordinary character. The fact that the Parnellites
they could adjust these differences of capital and labor. Why seem to be in a state of constant apprehension would indicate
asphaltum pavements? Because they can not be torn up and that they have a good reason to know that the ‘Force Party’
made into barricades.’ are on the eve of attempting to carry out some well-planned
“The speaker’s rprs flashed and his voice took on the lower scheme of terrorism. The police are nervously active. London
tones as he continued: ‘But we have a counter-irritant now. was never so thoroughly patrolled. Strangers arriving at any
Dynamite! That will offset their pavement and their guns. of the Metropolitan entrepots are closely scrutinized, and in
We hope it will not Pome to this. There are other ways of many cases “shadowed” until proved beyond suspicion. All
settling differences and our order is developing itself to a the Ministers are guarded by detectives to and from Parlia-
peacefill anrl a rational solution of the problem.“‘- ment and the public offices. The entire detective force has
That all sounds like idle bravado. vet it mav be the inner been put on double dutv alternatelv. When Parliament is in
thought of a million workers. Men ‘Gust have”worked them- sessioh visitors are disc&raged fro& attendance and strangers
selves to a considerable frenzy, when they even talk of dyna- are not allowed in the building at all. Before each sittine
mite as a means of avenging their supposed wrongs. the Parliament buildings are seirched by the police from ccl‘:
On the same day, in Chicapo, there was a patherinp of lar to roof, and immediately after each- rising all people are
working men. and ‘their theme- was “Socialists,c’What ‘ihey ejected from the palace yard and the gates are locked and
Want, and How they want it.” This very comprehensive sub- placed under guard. All the Ministers and a majority of
ject was discuqned by Alexander Jonas. editor of the New the Torv leaders have ado&d the custom of leavine Parlia-
York T’olks Zeitmg, Paul Grottkau of the Arbeiter Zeitung ment ii cabs. the Ministeis making their exits thr&gh the
f Workinzman’s Paper), and a T. J. Morgan. Mr. Jonas is private entrances. During each recess all the corridors and
said to be very moderate in his views as compared with other vaults of the Parliament buildings are constantly patrolled by
aDo4les of Socialism. vet thev contrived to sav: special sentries.
The object of socialists w& that each manU should be free The Thames Embankment has been ulaced under the care
to work as much as he thought he owed to the world, and take of sneciallv anminted watchmen. Neariv all the well-known
in return as much as he needed. He did not care for art and In&cibles” who recently were conspic&s in London have
science as long as millions were starving and in misery. either disanneared or suddenlv become auiet. Peter Tvnan.
Socialists did not want charity, but justice, and it was the long regarde’d as the mysterio;s “Numbe; One,” recently left
duty of workingmen who were enlightened as to the aims London, leaving word that he was going to America. It has
of socialism to canvass their fellow-laborers actively and im- been ascertained that he went straipht to Paris, and it is
part their own intelligence and knowledge to them. It had asserted that he was seen in the Frengh capital reckntly. Capt.
heen asked why in Cincinnati the workinemen who all had Efc(!afferty is known to be there. It is generally feared that
rifles at home ‘did not turn out and shoot: The reason was the leaders of the Invincibles are in secret session in Paris for
simplv that they did not know enough yet. But the day the nurpose of directing from there the expected developments
would romp when intelligent workinpen, formed into armed which are awaited with a fear bordering upon panic.

“BEWARE of evil thoughts. They have done great mischief "IF you are seeking the comforts of religion rather than
in the world. Watch against them; pray against them. They the glory of our Lord, you are on the wrong track. The
prepare the wav for the enemy.” Comforter meets us unsought in the path of duty.”

“REJOICE evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks.”

(7-B) ~6661
 GOD’S LITTLE ONES
“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you that in heaven their angels do always behold
the face of my Father which is in heaven.“-Matt. 18:lO.
Some of the disciples had come to Jesus desiring to know forted by the blessed assurance that none of these things can
who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven; and Jesus called separate us from the love of God. (Rom. 8:35.)
a little child to him, and setting him in the midst of them Neither should any of these things separate God’s children
said, “Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and be- from one another. If they do, it is a sure indication that
come as little children, ye shall not enter the kingdom of those so influenced are losing the spirit of God and turning
heaven.” What a charm there is in childhood’s simplicity, back to the spirit of the world. Jesus specially warns us on
faith, love, hope and its meek teachable spirit. It confidently this point, saying, that if God and all the heavenly hosts of
takes your hand to be led where you please, and you my superior being so love, and esteem it a privilege to serve these
write upon its blank pages whatever you will. little ones, see that ye despise them not.
Just so God would have men be, but it takes very thorough We believe that there are many of these “little ones” yet
converting to bring them back to the simplicity of childhood. in the nominal church who. because of adverse worldlv circmn-
As they have gro%r to years of maturity hope has so often stances, are despised and ‘unnoticed by the proud professors
been blighted. faith so often betraved. and love rebuffed, that of Christianitv who occunv the nrominent nositions in Babv-
the simplicity and meekness of childhood has been displaced lon. We would suggest io the many who have asked, What
by the art, the selfishness and the proud, haughty spirit which can I do in the Lord’s service? that here is a wide field of
despises instruction. usefulness open to the average talent.
But God comes with abundant proof of his love, and with There are doubtless those in every locality who are hungry
promises to inspire hope and faith, and requires of us a return for Christian sympathy and help. You can make it your
to childhood’s simnle faith, not in men, but in God who will business to seek them out and feed them with the precious
never betrnv it. Those who have thus come to childlike faith truth which has so nourished you. If you have no ability to
and obetlicrice to God. he calls his “little ones.” And like as preach in a public way, how freely you can tell the blessed
a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth his little story in your own wav, when heart to heart you can meet
ones that love him. ( Psa. 168.13.) He has pity and patience with some of the Lord’s little ones. Many of them have be-
for all their weak, imperfect efforts to do his will, and his come so accustomed to being desnised and indifferentlv nassed
special carr is ovrr all llis little ones, whether young or old. by, that your genial sympathy and help would be greatly ap-
God’s sppcinl cnrc and love for these is strongly expressed preciated.
in the ahnvc wnrtls of our Lord. “Their angels do always be- A little special effort, or, perhaps, more than a little,
hold the face of my Father.” God has g&n his angels spe- may make you acquainted with many such, and you will find
cial chnrae of thtsc. “Are thev not all ministering spirits abundant onnortunitv for the use of vour talents right in
sent forth to minister to them “who shall be heirs of ialva- your own locality. We should not be too quick to decide that
tion ?” (Ilrb. 1:l.t.) And these unseen ministers of the all who are in Babylon are of Babylon, else all effort will be
saints always have RCCCRSto our Father. 0 how little we paralyzed, and many precious opportunities of service lost.
realize the nondrons care that is over us. Even “the very It should be our constant endeavor to be co-workers with God
hairs of your head arc all numbered” (Matt. 10:30) ; an in- and with all his unseen hosts of ministering spirits.
numerahlc company of angels who hare constant access to But in all our efforts, let us remember the instruction to be
our Father watch over us continually, and no good thing will wise as serpents and harmless as doves. not giving strong meat
he withhrld, while every seeming ill shall be made to work to those who are babes in Christ, but first the sincere milk
together for onr grind. Does poverty, sickness, loss of friends of the word, and afterward stronger truth as they are able
or any other ill distress you? ever remember and be com- to bear it. MRS. C. T. R.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Qztcptlon Plca~c harmonize if you can Prov. 17:15 with pronounced against it. No, but God devised a wav bv which
Ram. 4:5. The first rends: “He that justifieth the wicked he could be just, and yet the justifier of sinners who” believe
and he that condemn&h the iust, even thev both are abomina- in Jesus (Rom. 3:26), viz.: By giving his only begotten Son
tion to the Lord.” The second is: “But t’o him that worketh who “for the joy set before him,” became our willing sub-
not, but helieveth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith stitute. Our sins having been laid upon or imputed to him
is counted for righteousness.” (Isa. 53 :B) if we believe on him. his rinhteousness will be im-
. Anszcer. Strictly speaking, no man can justify another, puted to us; and thus we are justified.” Sin having been can-
1. e.. to make or truthfullv nronounce him conformable to celled by the Redeemer, the sinner will in due time be made
God’s law. Yet it is quite “a ‘common thing for men to pro- actually perfect.
nounce that right whigh is wrong, and thus they attempf to Question. Was the prize of the high calling ever presented
iustifv evil and evil doers. And the same disnosition which as an incentive to entire consecration? Is it not rather a
leads-them to do this. leads them also to condemn the just. spiritual truth revealed to the newlv be.gotten creature?
Because they prefer evil, they attempt to deceive themselves Amwer. We so regard it. Pnul’urg& consecration to God
and others into the idea that wrong is right and right is on account of the mercies of God as disnlaved in their iusti-
wrong. This is an abomination to the Lord: fication (Rom. 12 : 1) . When the natural ‘man out of graiitude
But while God condemns man’s attemnt to thus iustifv the and love surrenders his whole being to God, he does not under-
wicked, the second text shows that he can and does justify the stand that the will of God is the comnlete surrender of his
wicked. How? Certainly not in the same way he has just humanity, nor does he understand how-the new creature de-
condemned-by excusing wickedness, or attempting to make velops into his Lord’s likeness. Truth relative to his high
it appear right, and remitting the penalty which he had justly calling is unfolded to him by degrees.

“THF, sentiment that it matters not what a man believes, Could YOU mix it with your bread, and eat it without injury.
so that he is sincere, is as unscriptural as it is absurd. Sin- Oh, no; neither will the sincerity of your belief save you from
cerity in belief has no more effect in warding off evil in the the consequences of error in religious faith. Right belief-
spiritual than in the natural kingdom. If the teachings and truth. God’s truth, my brethren, is the only foundation on
persuasions of a reputed chemist should prevail on you to be- which you can safely rest your hopes.”
lieve that arsenic is harmless, would it therefore be harmless?

“As THE sunlight tints the flower and colors the rock: as humblest bargain and the lowliest acts of life as much as in
it alternately sparkles in the dew-drop and shines in the broad the great songs of Hebrew bards and the profound teachings
ocean ; so the true religious spirit should he present in the of Paul.”

“COMING to the Saviour we need not fear to place our to lead from darkness into the marvelous light of love and
hand of faith in His hand of power, for He is able and willing grace.”

AFFLICTIONS are the rough touches and hard rubs that we get to polish us for use, and for shining.
I42 16571
VOL. TI PITTSBURGH, PA., SEPTEMBER, 1884 No. 1

TO NEW READERS
The TOWER comes to you as unpretentiously as the min- springs up and gradually unfolds. Thus our Father has made
isters of the earlv church. We nresent no list of titled and abundant provision for the household of faith and the true
lcorld-renonned contributors-no;e whose fame would com- servants shall bring forth things both new and old, that the
mand your attention to the subjects we present. But we come household may have meat in due season. The cause of the op-
to you with the Bible as God’s Word, and seek to enlist your position on the part of many to the truth now due, is the
attention to its statements and your obedience to its require- failure to recognize this progressive and unfolding character of
ments. and thus to lead the hearts and minds of some of God’s revelation of his plans. Most Christians take for granted
God’s children away from the jarring confusion of precept that good men of the nast who walked in the light then due.
and doctrine, prevalent among thk various divisions (se&s) bf had all the truth worth knowing. Knox, Ca&in, Luther;
Chrlstinns into the harmonv. beautv. simplicity, and con- Wesley and others were, we believe, followers in our Lord’s
fidence, which come from th;?. study f God’s w&d and its footsteps of self-sacrifice and devotedness to God; but more
acceptance as a harmonious whole and a self-interpreter. truth is due in our day than in theirs. According to God’s
It would be but natural that you should wonder how these plan, the light should shine more and more until the Derfect
things could be true, yet not recognized long ago by earnest day.. Therelore many Christians of today make a gre&, mis-
Christians: and whv so manv of those in the churches manifest take, and sit in comparative darkness, when they might be
a bitter opposition” to things so full of harmony with God’s walking in glorious light, because they search the theology of
Word, and so fully vindicating the justice, wisdom and love these men instead of the Word of God.
of our heavenlv Father. Oh, that all would turn away from musty church creeds
In answer ‘to vour supposed queries we suggest that if a of times past and give more earnest heed to the ever living,
broad view of Goi’s dealings be taken, it shows that he has a ever fresh, ever unfolding, ever new Word of God. Again,
nlan with reference to men. While he was pleased in past others take the Bible and search it only for the purpose of see-
times to reveal an outline of that plan, it was nothing more; ing how nearly they can make it to fit either their mental
no details were given. The details of the nlan began to be or written creed. If your habit has been such, we hope you
recognized since Pentecost. The light of revelation .&ines with will at once resolve to lay aside all human teachings as au-
special brightness on the ends of the ages. Upon the ending thoritative, and hereafter-judge all vou hear or re;d by the
of the Jewish age which was the beginning of the Gospel Age, statements of Scrinture. If YOU believe anvthinrr, make sure
new and special light shone out relative to the blessed privil- that you have S&iptural stitements warr”anting it. Prove
eges about to be enjoyed in the Gospel Age. Remember, too, all things, hold fast that which is good, and cast away all
that it came from the Scriptures, written long before, but else.
which were never before appreciated or understood. Matthew, The action of the nominal church today relative to the light
Mark, Luke, John, Peter and Paul, all quoted the prophecies now shining clearly resembles that of the Jewish church rela-
and applied them to the events taking place and due to take tive to light in the end of their age. They reject every new
place, in their day-the opening of the Gospel Age. The rav of light because it would conflict with some cherished
prophecies had been there for centuries, but the revelatiolt or thiory or”statement of their creed. Thev are so enwrapped
understanding of them, was reserved for those in the ends of with -their own plans and arrangements” for converting- ihe
the ages. (See 1 Cor. 10 : 11.) So now in the closing of the world. that thev are unwilling to hear that God has a better.
Gospel Age and dawning of the Brand Millennial Age, we grand&, and &finitely more” comprehensive way of dealing
should expect the light to shine out brightly relative to God’s with evil, and blessing and teaching the world. Their ears
nlans for this incominp age. And so it does. Search and see. are so stopped bv the din and confusion of their own religious
beni after gem of precioud truth now glows with unparalleled efforts thii they cannot discern the plan of Jehovah. -
lustre to the diligent searcher, not because of his superior Satan is doubtless interested in the nromotion of the con-
nbilitv to find it, but because God’s due time has come for fusion of sect& and stimulates and encoirages that zeal which
such ‘to understand it. Soon the blessed bow of promise shall is not according to knowledge, and thus hinders their hearing
span the whole heavens, and weeping earth shall dry her tears. Jehovah’s voice, saying, “Be still and know that I am God,
It is no more surprising that these truths relative to God’s (the mighty one) ; I will be exalted among the heathen; I
plan for the blessing’of ali’manl~ind should have been but dim- will be exalted in the earth.” (Ps. 46: 10.) The power to do
Iv seen heretofore. than that the call of the Gentiles to be this is with our Father, and not witn us. When he gives the
heirs of the Abrahamic promise, (Acts 11: 18; Eph. 3:5, 7 ; saints with Christ their Lord, the heathen for an inheritance-
Gal. 3 :29.) should have been but dimly seen until the Gospel when he gives the kingdom under the whole heavens to the
Age began to dawn. We can understand prophetic scriptural people of the saints, THEN, and not by poor human effort,
statements only as they become due. Thus-“Light, (truth, will God’s kingdom come and his will be done on earth as it is
wa9 long ago) sown for the righteous.” When due, the light in heaven. (Dan. 2:35, 44 and 7:18, 27.)

A FORMER PASTOR’S LETTER

TO THE PRESENT PASTOR AND HIS CONoREGATION
DEaR BRoTIIER:-Your note, stating that you and the was adjudged faithful to my duties; and though coming
church of which you are the pastor, desire me to write to YOU, short of my own model of what a minister of Christ should
is at hand. Not doubtine the general interest of vourself and he I have the happy consciousness of having ordinarily walked
those for whom you spedi, in The welfare of a f&mer pastor up to the degree of light I possessed. To relate my varied
whose relations n-rre mutually most amicable, I still suppose and peculiar experiences after resigning my pastorate would
that it is particularly on account of my having withdrawn transcend the limits of an ordinary letter, and perhaps would
from the ministry and membership in the M. E. Church that be without interest to those for whom I write. Suffice it to
you desire to heal To those who listened to my preaching say, that after about two years of such experiences, there fell
during mv nastornte at Townsendville. it is unnecessary to into my hands, providentially as it seems to me, a publication
state ‘that” I ‘was at the time a Methodist. My notions of the which was the means of a decided change in my understanding
teachings of Scripture were gained while yet a child. They of much of God’s Word; a change, however, which led me to
were taught me bv Methodist parents, in Methodist Sunday- much more exalted views of the character of God, and served
schools, and from Methodist pulpits. to harmonize many passages in his Word which before ap-
I find that vears before I was canable of forming for mvself neared either unmeaning or contradictory.
intelligent on&ions concerning even-the general scgpe of Scrip- I Though disposed to look with much suspicion an all that
ture teaching, they had already been moulded, and I had un- cast a doubt on so-called orthodox teachings, I nevertheless
questioningly accepted the opinions of others and made them found them so fatally assailed by God’s ow’n .Word, that my
mv own. I am now disposed to believe, however, that it was prejudices, one by one, yielded, and orthodoxy crumbled and
with come degree of mental reservation that I accepted some lav in a mass of ruins at mv feet.
of the doctrines of orthodoxy. How else could I, while pro- ” You are now ready to aik, which of these doctrines appear
fessing to believe in cndlrss torment for the unrepentant, as- to me to be out of harmonv with the teaching of the Word?
cociate with them, ncccpt their many kindnesses, and speak The present opportunity will allow me to spvak of but few
to them from the pulpit on themes often tending to divert of these, and I will select such as I trust will appear plain to
their attention from, rather than attract it toward, so horrible you. Orthodoxy teaches that the present life irrevocably deter-
2 fate. I believe honever that by the churches I served I mines the future condition of every human being. Though it
SEPTGYBES.1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER
is nowhere stated in Scripture that there is not for any a ter, and see that God is teaching the Jews of their final
probation after this life, it is preached and enforced much restoration to the “land of promise,” as he had long before
more vigorously than many things which the Bible does affirm. promised to Abraham.
If it be true. as oreached. that there will be no Drobation
-, -&
Bear in mind that the prophet is writing about 1,000 year5
after this life, then surely m&h the larger part, of l&e human after the destruction of this people, and that Jesus savs (Luke
family never have a probition. No person can be said to have 17:29), “It rained fire and brimstone from heaven- and de-
a nrobation until made acauainted with that for which he is stroyed them ~11.” Notice now, that in the 46th verse the
to-be held accountable. B&ides, if there be no future proba- prophet refers both to the people of Samaria and to those of
tion, many passages of the sacred Word are to me unmeaning; Sodom, and in the 53d and 55th verses plainly states that
nav. more. are nositivelv contradictory. Please notice Luke these people who were all destroyed SHALL RETURA to their
2 :i6, “Behold, I- bring tou good tidings of QBEAT JOY, which FORMER ESTATE. In the 60th and Gist verses it is again stated
shall be to ALL PEOPLE." that God will establish with Israel an everlasting covenant,
We are all aware that a large majority of the PEOPLE who and that he will give to her Samaria and Sodom for daughter+
have lived and died, even since these words were uttered, never (that she may instruct them and bring them into harmony
heard of the event here referred to. In what sense, therefore, has with God’s plans). Thus we see that the promised blessing to
is been QREAT JOY to them? What possible advantage can they Israel is not, alone for herself, but that she may be God’.,
have derived from it,? agency in extending light, and knowledge to “ALL PEOPLE."
Again. in John 1:9. it is stated of Jesus, “That was the How well all this comports with Peter’s words (Act+
true right which light&h EVERY M A N that cometh into the 3:21), in which he declares the “times of restitution of all
world.” How. nermit me to ask. has he lighted those mil- things which God hath spoken by the mouth of all of his holy
lions of the r&c;! who never heard of him? &ow can this be prophets since the world began.” A careful study of the?e
true, unless there is to be a trial for them in the future in holy prophets can scarcely fail to cllscover this glorious doc-
which this light shall be received ? Again, in 1 Tim. 2 :6, trine of a restitution of all things interwoven in all their writ-
it, is stated that Christ Jesus gave himself a ransom for ALL, ings. We are able in this light to comprehend John’s defini-
to be testified in DUE TIME. Now, we all know, that it has tion of God’s character-( 1 John 4:S)---“God iz love.” 1~ it
not yet been testified to ALL. not notably the case that the fear of future torment is now
But, if this Scripture be true, it, will be; so we can reach the principal incentive held out to induce men to come to
no other conclusion than that the DUE TIME-God's DUE TIME- Godi Jotin says, however, that “He that Zoveth. not knozceth
for much the larger part of thk human family to receive this not God.”
testimony will be FUTURE. Another teaching of the nominal Church, which I believe
I might cite many other passages that are susceptible of to be at variance with the teaching of the Word is, that all
a rational interpretation only in this light, but surely they believers are to be of the body or Bride of Christ. The Bible
will occur to your minds. teaches that the result of belief is justification to that con-
But,, you may ask, Why is it not, taught in the Scriplure, dition which Adam forfeited by his disobedience. He forfeited
if there is to be an opportunity for those who have never human perfection ; moral-mental-physical. Belief in Christ
heard of him of whom it is declared, “There is no other name as the Redeemer, is the condition on which it may be recovered.
given under beaven, among men whereby we must, be saved?” The conditions to the high calling of God in Christ Jesus
To this I answer. It is so taught. and not in a sinele text (Phil. 3:14) ; the holy calling (2 Tim. 1:9) ; the hcu~enl~
mkr&, but in miny Scriptures.” Bifore referring you”to such calling (Heb. 3 : 1) , are far different. These require not only
teachings, however, permit me to remark, that the doctrine of justification, but that their justified human nature shall be
a future probation for the world is not more strange to presented to God a living sacrifice-conditions which never
nominal Christianity today than was that of a salvation for were required until the na<row way to life was opened up by
the Gentiles to the Jewish-Church at, Christ’s first coming. In Jesus Christ (Heb. lo:20 : Matt. 7 : 14). Those who follow
illustratinP mv nosition. I will call attention to a sinale in- Jesus’ footsteps in this narrow wiy are promised immortality.
stance fro& S&i&ure; not because it does not, contain &hers, “For as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given to
but, because the limits prescribed me will not permit their the Son to have life in himself” (Jno. 5:26) ; and we (his
notice. This one instance, however, will be sufficient, I trust, body) shall be like him (1 Jno. 3 :2), spiritual beings, no
to answer every reasonable objection. longer human, but, partakers of the Divine nature.
We will select what is usually regarded as the most marked By rejecting the Bible doctrine of a future probation-after
illustration of Divine wrath. viz.: the Sodomites. Now. if we the dead shall have heard the voice of the Son of God and
can show from the plain statements of God’s Word that these come forth, as illustrated in the case of Lazarus. the widow’s
people are to come back to life, in order that they may have son and others-by rejecting this and other Bible teachings,
an opportunity of having it testified to them that Jesus Christ, the nominal Church has been thrown into confusion and led
gave-himself a ransom -for all, of believing this testimony if into many errors.
thev will. and of receiving the benefits of belief. viz.: iusti- That this confusion and these errors have largely con-
fica”tion: if we make this Glain, then we think the case if the tributed toward bringing about a rapid increase of infidrlity.
others will appear, at least, vkry hopeful. But, first, let, us both within and without her own pale, I firmly believe. Whnt
learn from the Great Teacher. who “knew what wa.s in man.” is the spiritual condition of the Church today? Where are
what he thought of these Sodomites. the revivals of former years? Alas, they exist only in name,
In his preaching he compared them with the Jews, and or are the result of the efforts of a few professional revivali+.
particularly with the people of favored Capernaum (Matt. The barriers that formerly separated between the Church and
11.23, 24). Jesus here says, “If the mightv works which the world are mostlv sweat awav. and the m:ln of fair worldlv
have been ‘done in thee, had be& done in Soaor& it would have prospects, with wh;m shi refus’es to share all her privileges,
remained unto this dav. But I sav unto vou that it shall be must fall below the world’s standard of mornlitv.
more tolerable for the”land of Sod&m in de day of judgment There, drnr brethren, are some of the causes \Ghich led me
than for you.” to sever a connection which I once so higl1l.y pri7ed. and to
Thus we see that it was for want of light that these people accept doctrines which, though they may bring reproach and
were destroyed. We see also, that Jesus teaches a time of obloquy, I believe to rest on the foundation of the Prophets
retribution-future-which shall be tolerable for ALL, even for and Apostles, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.
the people of Capernaum, who rejected Jesus and his miracles; Commending you to God, who is able to make all grace
nnd yet more tolerable for the Sodomites that, perished in abound toward you. and trusting that this letter ma7 lend
ignor&ce. Are we not, all ready to say, this is &rely, as we you to a more careful study of His Word. which on!y 1s able
have a right, to suDnose God would deal with those to whom to make you wise unto salvation, and to trust less m human
in their lifetime hi-had never given light and knowledge? creeds and traditions, I remain,
Now, turn if you please to the prophet Ezekiel, 16th chap- Your spryant, for Christ’s sake. S. T. TXKARURP.

JUSTIFICATION DEFINED
“Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.“-Rom. 5:2.
The word justification has two meanings, which are closely These terms are used in these two senses in Scripture. As
related; one 1s to prove that a thing is right., the other to illustrating the first definition, viz.: provin,g or sbowinp to
make a thing right which is wrong. be just and right. notice that our Heavenly l?atb~~r is snid to
Webster defines the word justifiy thus: I. “To prove or be :justified and Jesus also. When .Tolln prc:l~l~c~l 1cpcntancc
show to be just or conformable to law, right, justice or duty- for szns, the people who believed /~st$cd C:(V~: i. c.. they
to vindicate as right,” II. “To pronounce free from guilt.” acknowledged that God had been just, in condc~unu~g and pun-
II6591
C-9) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH,PA.

ishinrr them as sinners; his dealing were vindicated as being bath set forth to be a ropitlation through fuith in his blood.”
nghty Jesus as a man was tried & tested in all points (the The secret is, that Y esus died for our sins. But. does some
world, flesh, and devil) as we are, “yet without sin”-“In one suggest, that as sin is the cause of all death, therefore
him was no sin.” He was “holy, harmless, separate from Isaiah, Jeremiah, Peter and others died because of sin as well
sinners.” Jehovah was his judge, &nd he j&&if&d, i. e., de- as Jesus. We answer, Yes; they all died because of sin; all
clared him to have been m-oved right and iust. He was vin- except Jesus died because of their share in the sin, because
dlcated as being right, o>, as we”read, he” was “justified in they were descendants of the condemned Adam, whose life
spirit and received into glory.” (1 Tim. 3:16.) was forfeited by sin. Thus all but Jesus die because of the
His unspotted humanity he gave up to death, to pay for inherited taint. Jesus died because of sin, too, but not be-
u8, the penalty of Adamic sin. Thus his death was not for cause of inherited taint or personal guilt. His life came di-
111s own sins, but for ours. “He bore our sins in his own rect from God and was unforfeited; Lut he died for our sills.
body on the tree.” “Jehovah (in harmony with his own de- “Jehovah laid upon him the iniauitv of us all.” “Him who
sire 1 laid on him the zniquity of us all.” The man Christ knew no sin [either personal or iiherited] he made a sin
Jesus gave himself (his manhood) a ransom for all. And offering [treated as a sinner] on our behalf, that we might
one of the best evidences that in God’s sight he was free from become God’s righteousness in him.” (2 Cor. 5:21, DiagZott.)
all sin, 1s found in the fact that though he gave his humanity Thus we see why God justifies believers through Jesus and
as a ransom, yet God, while accepting the human sacrifice not through themselves, nor through apostles or prophets.
for our sins, raised Jesus to life on a plane far above the Now, we see why there is no other name given under heaven
human. Had he been a sinner, this would have been im- or among men whereby we can be saved from the penalty of
possible, for God’s law condemns every sinner to death. the fall. It is because he gave his sankss, perfect humanity
Xow notice the second meaning of justification-the mak- a RANSOM-ubstitute for ours.
ljlg right of something which is wrong. This is the sense Did God unjustly lay upon the willing substitute the in-
in which the term is applicable to us, who by “the fall” are iquity of us all? Ah, no; for the joy set before him he en-
wrong and sinful. dured the cross, despising the shame. Therefore, his present
God cannot say arbitrarily, Though you are sinful, a vio- exaltation and glory. Wondrous wisdom of the infinite Je-
lator of my just laws, I will declare you to be right. NO, hovah ! Who can find a flaw in his glorious plan or charge
he must be just--justice is the foundation of his throne; every- him with injustice?
thing rests upon it. If you are imperfect and sinful he can- Now we see what it is to believe in Jesus. Not merely
not say that you are righteous. If you were righteous he believing that such a man lived and died, but that he lived
could not declare you a sinner, nor treat you as such. and died free from all condemnation and sin-attested and
Do you remind us that there is none of the Adamic race apnroved of God-and that his death was for our sms. And
righteous-no, not one-and urge that, therefore! God cannot thus we see now God can justly justify those who believe in
justify any of us? We reply that he cannot Justify us in and accept of that sacrificial offering of the humanitv of
the first sense of the word, as seen above, but there is a way Christ Jesus. Now we can see that th< sins and the fraflties
which God’s love and wisdom have devised by which he can of the Adamic family were cancelled by the rurlsorn price
be iust and the iustifier of those sinners who believe in or which the second Adam gave. The first Adam’s sins were
ac&pt Jesus. (R”om. 3:26.) Thus our justification is in the imputed to the second, ana the second Adam’s human purity
second sense explained above; that is, we who are wrong, sin- is imputed to the first and his children-when they believe,
ful and condemned before God, are made right by having our and thus they are justified to live again.
sins and shortcomings settled by another-by having the per- It is blessed to realize. too. that the snotlens one wlm
fections of another set to our account. bought us by the sacrifice of his humanity ii noi; -highly ex-
But, some one may raise the question as to what is the alted to the spiritual condition and power, and thus as a new
cause or basis of justification. One claims that is by Jehovah’s creature-partaker of the divine nature-he will continue to
grace, and not because our ransom has been paid, and quotes carry forward the Father’s plan. Soon he will bring from
Titus 3:7, “Being justified bv his grace.” Another claims the -prison-house of death tbbse whom he bought, th& they
that ne are justified, not by grace, nor by a ransom, but by all might be (thus) saved (from the nenaltv of Adam’s sin)
t’crzth. and auotes Rome 5: 1, “Being iustified by faith.” An- and come to a knowledge of the truih, vii.: that they, by
bthe; claims the raqgsorn as -the ba&” of all justification, and faith in Christ, are justified freely from all things and may
refers to Ram. 5 :9. “Beinn now iustified bv his blood” (death). come to perfection and harmony witn God as before sin.
Are there three wars to‘be iu&ified? go, answers Jesus, “I How Paul brings out this doctrine of justification in Rom.
am the say . . . . ‘So man cometh to the Father but by me.‘, 5:lS. 19. showine the condemnation to death on all thloucrb
What can there be about believing in Jesus? Why not be- Adam, ahd the j&tification out of death to life-through Je&
lieve in Peter or Moses or Samson or Isaiah or Jeremiah? Christ our Lord, to whom be glory throughout all ages. Amen.
\Yby could not God justify those who believe in these as well Justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that
as those “who believe in Jesus?” There must be something is in Christ Jesus, whom God hath sent forth to be a pro-
special and peculiar about Jesus, something different from vitiation (satisfaction) throueh faith in his blood : to declare
all other teachers and prophets that we may be justified his rightebusness (right doin;) ‘in the remission of -sins that
through faith in him, and not by faith in them. are past . . . . To declare, I say, at this time his (God’s)
Again, what is it to believe in Jesus? Is it merely to righteousness; that he might be just and the justifier of him
recoonize the fact that such a person once lived in Judea and which believeth in Jesus. (R om. 3:24, 25.) Those who will
did on a cross ? Surely no{; many prophets perished in study the chart in “Fooc$” page 105, will be helped in the
Judea; many persons died on crosses. understanding of this subject, and also the important subject
In esplnnation, we suggest that if the context be studied, of Sanctification, which should follow it, but cannot pre-
these texts will be found harmonious. It is by Jehovah’s cede it.
grace or favor that we are justified, for
“THE sentiment that it matters not what a man believes,
“Grace first contrived the plan so that he is sincere, is as unscriptural as it is absurd. Sin-
To save rebellious man.” cerity in belief has no more effect in warding off evil in the
We are justified by faith, too; that is, we must by faith spiritual, than in the natural kingdom. If the teachings and
grasp the agency of God’s grace-the ransom--before we can persuasions of a reputed chemist should prevail on you to
renllze its full value. But down under all is the ransom- be&we that arsenic is harmless, would it therefore be harm-
.Jesus’ death-the basis of all justifying faith and the channel less? Could you mix it with your bread, and you and your
of God’s uruce. These three things: the value of the ransom children eat it without injury to health life? Oh, no! Neither
as the p&er of justification, tn’e grace which provided it, will the sincerity or your belief save you from the conse-
and the faith which appropriates it are all beautifully joined quence of error in religious faith. Right belief-truth, God’s
by Paul In Rom. 3 :24, 25. “Justified freely by his grace truth, my brethren, is the only foundation on which you can
through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ, whom God safely rest your hope.”

THE Koman Catholic Church was not organized, it grew. the fourteenth century; there is no trace of the worship of the
Many of its peculiar doctrines date back from a comparatively Virgin Mary prior to the fourth century, and it haa been ever
late epoch. Thus Papal infallibility was not claimed until since then growing in extent; the very word transsubstantia-
about the eleventh century, nor dogmatically asserted by Coun- tion had no existence till the beginning of the twelfth century.
ril till the nineteenth; the celibacy of the clergy was not Thus it will be seen that so far as Romanism is a system of
ad~Jpt4 till after tbr fourth century; penances were intro- doctrine, it does not in its present form date from the Apos-
duced ahollt the mitldlr of the third century; indulgences in tolic days.--Christian Union.
[6601
 A FREE SALVATION
ROMANS III. 24.
Nothing to pay? No, not a whit; Nothing of guilt? No, not a stain;
Nothing to give? No, not a bit; How could the blood let any remain?
All that was needed to do or to pay, My conscience is purged, and my spirit is free;
Jesus has done it his own blessed way. Precious that blood is, to God and to me.
Nothing to do? No, not a stroke; What of the law? Ah, there I rejoice;
Foiled is the captor, broken the yoke; Christ answered its claims and silenced its voice.
Jesus at Calvary severed the chain, The law was fulfilled when the work was all done,
And none can imprison his free man again. And it never accuses a justified one.
Nothing to fear? No, not a jot; What about death ? It hasn’t a sting ;
Nothing within? No, not a spot; The grave to a Christian no terror can bring;
Christ is at peace, and I’ve nothing at stake; For death has been conquer’d, the grave has been spoiled,
Satan can neither harass me nor shake. And every foeman and enemy foiled.
Nothing to settle? All has been paid; What about feelings? Ah, trust not to them;
Nothing to anger? Peace has been made; What of my standing? Who shall condemn 1
Jesus alone is the sinner’s resource; Since God is for me. there is nothing so clear-
Peace he has made by the blood of his cross. From Satan and man I have nothing to fear.
What about judgment? I’m thankful to sav What of my body? Ah! that I may bring
Jesus has m& ig and borne it away ; 1 To God, as a holy, acceptable thing;
Drank it all UD when he hunn on the tree, For that is the temple where Jesus abides,
Leaving a cup bf full blessing-for me. The temple where God by his Spirit resides.
What about terror? It hasn’t a place What of my future? ‘Tis glorious and fair,
In a heart that is filled with a sense of his grace. Since justified, sanctified, his glory I’ll share;
My peace is most sweet, and it never can cloy, Bv his blood first redeem’d; by his grace then enthron’d.
And that makes my heart bubble over with joy. Side by side with my Lord, his Bride I’ll be owned.
What, then, dost thou ask? 0, glory shall follow;
Earth shall rejoice in the dawn of the morrow.
To rule and to bless comes that kingdom and reign;
Flee then, shall sorrow, death, crying and pain.
-Relected.

THE LAW OF GOD

[This article was a reprint of that published in issue of October, 1882, which please see.]

THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES

Now consider the subject of the signs of the times. Re- heaven and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the
marks on this subject are too often made which betray a want day when the Son of man is revealed.” Luke 17 :26-30.)
of intelligent comprehension of the nature of the signs that Aid the Apostle continues thus: “For yourselves know pe;-
are according to Scripture to indicate the “time of the end.” fectly that the dav of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the
A careless rvading of our Lord’s prophetic discourse on the night; for when tliey shall say, Peace and safetv, then sudden
Mount of Olives seems to be the cause of much of this mis- deitruction cometh bpon theni as travail upon k woman with
apprehension. His predictions of wars and rumors of wars, child, and thev shall not escape.” (1 Thess. 5:2. 3.1
famines, pestilences,& and earthquakes, are quoted as if they Ii any such signs, as are- imagined by some,’ w&e to pre-
and such like things were to be the siens of the end of the cede the advent, the state of society predicted in these pas-
age. A little acc&ate attention to thi order of his state- sages could not by any possibility exist. If monstrous, un-
ments would at once show that, so far from this being the heard-of, supernatural, portentous events were to transpire,
case, he mentions these as the characteristic and common would they not be telegraphed the same day all over a startled
events of the entire interval prior to his coming. Wars and world, and produce such a sense of alarm aud expectation
calamities, persecution and apostacy, martrydom, treachery, that buying and selling, planting and building, and marrying
abounding iniauitv. Gosnel Dreaching, the fall of Jerusalem, and giving in marriage, would all be arrested together, and
the grea< tribklat”ibn of- Israel, whi& has, as we know, ex- “peace and safety” would be far from any one’s lips or
tended over 1,800 years; all these things were to fill the thoughts? And if one of the Apocalyptical prodigies is to
interval, not to be signs of the immediate proximity of the be thus fulfilled, all of course must be so. Conceive a suc-
second advent. How could things of common, constant oc- cession of such supernatural prodigies, and a world asleep
currence be in themselves signs of any uncommon and unique in fancied security, and overtaken by sudden destruction. No,
crisis? What commoner all through the ages than wars and there was nothing special to alarm the antediluvians before
rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes? These, the day that Noah entered into the ark; nothing special to
as marking the course of the age, can never indicate its close. startle the men of Sodom ere the fire from heaven fell; and
What, then, are the signs we should expect? like as it was in those days, so will it be in these. All going
Many who perceive the folly of thus looking at every on just as usual, no single sign to attract the world’s atten-
great natural calamity as a sign go to an opposite extreme, tion. “None of the wicked shall understand” the true state
and expect wonderful, unprecedented, supernatural and im- of affairs, only the “wise” enlightened by the word of proph-
possible signs, basing their expectations on a literal inter- ecy.
pretation of the symbolic hieroglyphics of the Apocalypse. It will be objected, perhaps, but if the signs of the times,
Such signs would be so grotesque and absurd in character which we arc expected to recognize, are neither ordinary nat-
that it is an insult to human intelligence, not to say to di- ural events nor extraordinary unnatural ones. what are ther’
vine revelation, to assert that they are to be expected. There Scripture abundantly answers this inquiry. They are speci&
is one simple and all-sufficient answer to this childish con- but perfectly natural events, occurring in :L predicted order
ception of the signs of the last days. Our Lord and his and at a predicted time, and various and widely differing
Apostles alike furnish the reply. events occurring in combination. They are not sudden, start-
Our Lord says: “And as it was in the days of Noe, so ling, newly-produced phenomena, but definite stages in long
shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did progressing movements, whose history was written twenty-five
eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in mar- centuries ago.
riage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the As to Dolitical signs, allow me to make a few siniDle
flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was suggestion; I met a-gentleman who has long been n Ch;is-
in the days of Lot, they did eat, they drank, they bought, tian. a student of God’s Word. a worker in his service. :~nd
they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that he -iaid he had bestowed little time on the subjed of pro-
Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from phecy. Now there may be many such: let me refer. for tlltl
C66ll c3)
(3-4) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PxlYsBUnGH, PA.

sake of such, to a great political chart of the world’s history course of recorded history, and what do you see ? History
contained in Dan. 2. and esneciallv as comnared with Dan. ‘7. has run on the lines laid down; the predictions have been
There we have the history of the iast tweity-five centuries. fulfilled, we know their fulfillment is sure. Babylon, Persia,
Let me suggest that Daniel is the introduction to John, Greece, Rome Pagan, and Rome Papal and ersecuting all
the book of John the completion of Daniel. Daniel is first have come and gone, and here we are at the c Pose of the last
John; John is second Daniel. They are two parts of the same four empires; the next thing therefore to be expected is the
book, they treat of one subject, use the same symbols, em- manifestation, the shining forth of the kingdom 0; God.
ploy the same hieroglyphics, and speak of the same course Of course the historv of the Gentile world is a different
of events. These two books contain a series of visions in thing from the history “of the Christian Church. Take then
which the same ground is to a certain extent traversed again the latter: a great deal is foretold with regard to the history
and again. The first vision in these two books is the sim- of the Christian Church. That church was to grow. accordine
plest and most comprehensive. In that well-known vision, to prophecy, Beginning with small things it wa”s to attain to a
the fourfold image, representing the course of four great wonderful extent. From a small seed it was to snrine into
world-empires, Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome, we a great tree, spreading out its branches in which’the-birds
hare a chart of Gentile history. of the air were to come and build. This wonderful change
And using the word chart reminds me of a very simple is foretold bv the Lord Himself, bv Paul aeain and again. and
rllustrntion that may be of value to some on the question of by John in &ill greater detail:’ ail this h& taken p&e. ’
signs, and the point we have reached in the history of the Now observe, further, the bearing of this on this signs of
world. Suppose you cross the ocean, and traveling for many the times. As the Church in her infancy was told of her
days or weeks, you reach a certain point of the voyage still extension ; as she at length reached maturity; as she who
out of sight of land, when one day you hear a rumor that so small became a great spreading tree, and as the birds of
the ship is approaching the port to which you are bound. You the air came and built in her branches: as all this has be-
go to the captain, and inquire. “Yes, it is; we should sight come history, as all has been fulfilled; so another event fore-
the land at three o’clock this afternoon.” “How do vou told has taken nlace. In the historv of the Church there has
know ?” The captain unrolls his chart, and says, “There is been a great falling away from thl faith, and that apostasy
the nort: there is our nresent nosition.” He lavs his firmer was distinctly foretold. I suggest, then, that this word of
on the exact point reached by {he ship. “How do you kn:w Paul to the Thessalonians, “That day shall not come except
we are there?” “Do you see that line drawn across the there come the falling away first” (the apostasy), is a most
chart? That is our course: we have followed it; we are just important sentence in connection with the question of eccle-
there, and will sight land at three o’clock.” You ask for siastical signs of our times. The subject there is ecclesias-
evidence to reas&e yourself and strengthen your expecta- tical; the apostasy was to take place, not in the world, but
tion it shall be as he savs. You ask for further light on the
I
rn the Christian Church. Paul is writine of what is to take
subject, for you cannot understand how he can be so sure. place in the Church, and of that pure and practical hope;
“\Vell, our voyage has run along such and such a course, we and he is writing just there and then with reference to our
have come so many miles, the ship has kept the track marked gathering together to Him. And Paul says, “That day shall
there; on the way we have passed certain points, certain head- not come except there come the falling away first.” I believe
lands, indicated there, as Ceylon, Aden and so forth, just as that just as I accept any other statement of inspiration.
they are marked in the chart. Now the distance from Cey- Therefore I am forced to take this position: if that predicted
lon to the port we are making is so and so many miles; we falling away in the Christian Church has not taken place,
have just run within twenty miles of it, and by three o’clock it lies between us and our gathering together to Him.
we will make the rest. The chart with the reckoning of time But if, on the other hand, that predicted falling away
and distance shows exactly where we are.” has taken place, it does not lie between us and the coming
It seems to me that in a somewhat similar way God’s serv- of the Lord. If we comnare this fallinn awav in the Church
ants and saints are guided by His wondrous and infallible with the passage with which you are farnil&, “In the later
Word. He has been pleased in the Book to give us a chart times some shall depart from the faith,” the word in the
of historv not merelv historv still future, but historv orininal Greek is the same as in the passage in Thessalo-
now past”; and it ha: been &folded to us, not in dim nia&s. When we compare the two together, surely we can-
lrght, but in a broad, clear light, and part of the light, a not evade the conclusion that they refer to the same thing.
most important part of it, is prophecy with reference to the Now, the falling away in 1 Tim. 4, is described as “Giving
political history of the world, with reference to the political heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons . . . for-
history of the great Gentile powers. What a marvelous thing bidding to mariy,- and commanding to abstain from meats.”
it IS when we consider that twenty-five centuries ago, when Reading that, we cannot fail to recognize the portrait.
the times of the Gentiles were beginning, when the Jewish sub- Time would fail to do more than add this one thought
jection had commenced-for God has cast down the throne by way of suggestion, that after the declaration that the
of David for a time, and set up the Gentile powers-that at day shall not come except there come first the apostasy, there
that time, twenty-five centuries ago, the course of Gentile is added a very solemn declaration indeed, with reference to
Dower should be clearlv foreseen and distinctlv foretold, writ- the one whom the Reformers recognized as the man of sin,
ien and marked out in God’s holy Word! It’ is written and whose manifestation is described. I rejoice I have learned
rewritten, prediction multiplied on prediction, and the whole to look, as I have done for thirty years, on Scripture in the
thing laid bare and unfolded; and all history itself has run light of history, and on history in the light of Scripture.
on these lines exactly as foretold. And that doing so I can see the fulfillment of this prediction
I can only add on these signs, that each power has run in accurate accordance with prophecy, a fulfillment recognized
its appointed course: the Babylonian empire rose, reached a bv the Reformers, though denied by the Papacy. And this
certam point, and fell; the Medo-Persian empire succeeded, v&y prophecy led- to the Reformation, as they recognized the
and reached a certain development, and also fell; the Grecian necessitv of senaratine from the foretold apostasv. There is
emnlre followed, and ruled and perished; then rose the Roman no timi for f;rther details, but let us search and see. Do
empire, passed ‘through the co&se foretold, first united, then not let us imagine we have reached a termination in the
divided, just as indicated. Compare, I say, the Old Testa- studv of such thines. but let us seek to advance in the under-
ment and New Testament predictions with the whole standing of them.-%. (f. Guinness.

FEAR NOT, LITTLE FLOCK

Though the Church of Christ is a little flock, it is of price- eve and watered bv no human hand but are as fair and
less value. It has been purchased with blood. It is the flagrant as those which share the most costly culture, so the
flock of God, however divided and distracted; and though Good Sheoherd feeds his own flock in the wilderness, in
scattered in the dark and cloudy day, yet it will be gathered green pa&res, and by the side of still waters, restores, -and
together at last by “our Lord Jesus Christ, that Great guides, and comforts, and protects them, even to the end.
Shepherd of the sheep.” “He shall feed his flock like a shepherd,” and while he
But even now it is under his care, his supervision, his feeds them, how blessed to know that “He that keepeth
control, and not grievous wolves can devour those who listen Israel shall never slumber nor sleep.”
to God and to the word of his grace. Not one can pluck “The Lord is our shepherd, our guardian and guide,
even the feeblest lamb in all that flock from the hands of Whatever we need, he will kindly provide; -
the iI~*avcnly Father. The Great Shepherd cares for his To the sheen of his nasture his mercies abound.
lrttle r,,,c,; and as there are flowers that bloom in desert His care and protectIon his flock will surround:”
waste? and in lonely valleys, which are seen by no human -~hristum.
CC621
 THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD
[This article was a reprint of that published in issue of July, 1879, which please see.]

CHRIST’S SECOND PERSONAL ADVENT

It is probable that at no time since the early centuries away in the bowels of the earth because this busy nineteenth
of the Church has this subject been lifted into such promi- centurv, with its mvriads of railwavs and ocean steamers and
nence as during our own generation; so that the remark made manuf&ories, would need it. And have vou thought how
some years ago by the eminent German theologian, John large a proportion of the Old Testament is”prediction? And
Frederick Meyer, is clearly verified. He says: “With the is it, therefore, of no use to the practical working Church
Lord’s second advent will begin the real reign of God upon of today? Nay. This vast profusion of prophetic light falhnp
earth. A kingdom of righteousness, holiness and peace. upon the minds of Isaiah and Ezekiel and *Jeremiah and
It is called the reign of a thousand years. Modern David, and the minor nronhets. and treasured up in their
tiHk8 have again paid attention to this doctrine of the inspired pages, may soon be needed. And they who are dclv-
millennium, thus comciding with the ancient fathers. It is ing in these mines of eschatoloav. instead of being engaged
resounding, as it were, a new call: ‘The Lord cometh!’ in-an aimless and profitless toil,&ay be providing the Church
Among believers, this doctrine, far removed from carnal with the needed warmth for that predicted time when
conce$,ions, should no more be considered an error.” “iniquity shall abound, and the love of many wax cold,” and
But the imnatient auestion will be raised. “What nractical light for the day foretold by the watchman of Idumea, “The
value has this doctrine? True. it has been very Xdear to morning cometh, and also the night.”
martyrs and confessors in the times of the Church’s suffering And now we come to ask the auestion whether there is
and trial. But in these days, when the heavens arc all any faulty tendency in our current eschatologv which this
ablaze with evangelical light, and all nations are illuminated powerful reassertion of the nrimitive doctrine of our Lord’s
with its brightness, it seems an impertinence for you to second coming is likely to cbrrect? Here I speak with the
begin to trim the wicks and relight the lamns of nronhecv.” utmost caution and with the sincerest deference to the views
So1 thought, as on one cloudless day I was journeying iow&d of others. But I am strongly persuaded that such a tendency
the hills which form the western boundarv ” of our State. and does exist.
a porter came in and began to light the lamps in the car. By a ghastly anachronism, death has been substituted for
“iThat is the need of lam&.” J thought, “in s&h a cloudless the coming of Christ in the common teaching; and thus a
and sunlit day as this?” But the next moment there was a false centre has been set up in our eschatolo,T, by which the
shrill alarm from the whistle, and we instantly plunged into doctrines pertaining to the last things have been thrown into
the dark and sulnhurous darkness of the Hoosac Tunnel. It eccentric relation. Ask the auestion. “When does sanctifica-
was clear enouph’now why the lamps had been lighted.~ -And tion end ?” and the common- answer is, “At death.” Ask
does not Scripture say something about “a more sure word the question, “When do the reward8 of the righteous accrue?”
of prophecy unto which we do well to give heed, as unto and still the answer generally comee, from evangelical theology,
a light that shineth in a dark place, until the dav dawn ‘At death.” Ask the question, “When does the resurrection take
and -the day-star arise in our hearts?” The dark places place 9” and the answer comes from Liberals and New Depar-
may be iust before us:-who knows? The black hand of turists, and from a considerable company of the orthodox, “-4t
So&alism; armed with the most fatal weapons, and throwing death.” Thus death has been erected into such importance a8
its ominous shadow over almost every civilized nation;-the to constitute the terminus ad Quem of the life which now is,
smoke of the pit ascending up in the form of modern and the terminus a quo of that which is to come. Joseph Cook
Spiritualism-ten millions of adherents gathered within less in hi8 valiant defense of orthodoxy is thundering out the
than fifty years-making such an outbreak of demoniacal question, “Doe8 death end all?” and often piling up such post-
agency as the world has not seen since the day8 just pre- mortem conclusions ae to compel us in defense of the
ceding the flood,-even thoughtful men of the world are Scriptures to ask, “Does death benin all?” To us it seems
beginning to be afraid at these tokens. and to auestion what incontestably clear that the Bible makes the Advent, and not
th:y portend. But they who have ’ lighted the lamp of the grave, the supreme goal of the Church’s hope. And lest
prophecy think that they read the meaning of these things you should accuse me of sneakine nresumntuouslv. I wish you
bv its clear shining: and thev surmise that this mav be the would search the Bible for&yours&es, andAnote h&v constantlv
reason why they have been ialled to light their ca”ndle8 at the 90~1’s progress towards perfection is inspired and bounded
midday. God never makes half a providence, any more than by that one divine event, the roming of our Lord. You can
man makes half a pair of shears. If he moves some in the collate score8 of texts to this effect, all finding a fitting climax
Church to see clearly, and assert strongly a seemingly un- and summary in that grand utterance of Paul as it stands
practical doctrine, it may be because he intends to match in the Revised Version: “And may vour snirit and soul and
that doctrine to a certain exigency of error yet to arise. body be preserved entire, without blame, at-the coming of our
“Fossil sunlight” is what Herschel named anthracite Lord Jesus Christ.” The same mav be said of the divine
coal. The vast stores of sunlight ooured out unon the nlobe reward8 ; the promise of them is aimost without exception
during the old geological ages-werk consolidated and picked timed by this great event.-A. J. Gordon.

LOVE DEFINED
“By this shall all men k91ow that ye are my discif.rles, if ye have love one to another.”
Love is that tender solicitude and affection with which them. For six thousand years he has permitted their ad-
anything commanding admiration and respect, is regarded. versary to have dominion over them. Famine and pestilence
That which is not lovely never can be loved in the true eenee have stalked abroad; hatred and strife, and war and blood-
of the word. A degenerated nature may desire and find a shed, have filled the earth with untold agony and woe, until
morbid satisfaction in that which is unlovely, but that is not the grave closed over generation after generation. Sis thou-
love. Love wherever found is a gleam of the divine likeness. sand years, but no deliverance vet: God still stands off, and
and is spontaneously awakened by the presence of that which still the king of terrors reigns. When the long promised
is noble and pure and good. This wonderful principle binds Deliverer comes, it is to rule with a rod of iron-to dash in
in holiest and most delightful union and harmony all intelli- pieces as a potter’s vessel the kingdoms of earth, which from
gent beings controlled by it. God is the most glorious exhibi- human standpoint seem necessary for protection against
tion of its nobility and grandeur. It is the law of his being greater evils. In fear and dismay men look upon God as an
and shall ultimately be the controlling law of all his uni- enemy, and seek to hide from his presence; yet “God is love,”
verse. and
But one inquires, If only that which commands admiration
and respect can be truly loved, how could God love sinners “He knows, not they, how sweet accord
and tell- ue to do the same ? We reply that God never loved Shall grow at length from out this clash
sinners as such; he loved the jewel he had brought into per- Of earthly discords, which have jarred
fect being because it was truly lovely: and when, under On souls and sense. They hear the crash,
temptation it lost its excellence and glory, his love for its per- But do not know that on His ear.
fection pitied it in its fall, while his justice condemned it; Breaks harmony-full, deep and clear.”
and that love devised the wondrous scheme for its recovery.
Let U8 here note the attitude of Jehovah toward those Now the love of God is veiled, but soon it shall be re-
whom he 80 loved a8 to give hi8 only begotten Son to redeem vealed in the glorious restoration to Edenic perfection and
[6631 (4)
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURCR, PA.

bliss. Soon “the redeemed of the Lord (all mankind) shall condemning others would be wrono; but to apply the judg-
return and come nith singing unto Zion (the Church in king- ment of God as espressed in his Word is right. We are com-
dom power). and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads: manded to do so. And the various descriptions of evil deeds.
they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing false teachings, and seducing doctrines, -are given that we
shall flee away.” Thus virwing God’s dealings, we see that mav iudrre-“That the man of God mav be thoroughlv fur-
his nisdnm often veils his lore. nished,” ‘for reproof, for correction of &ror and in%&tion
True lore while it seeks to shield and protect, will justly in righteousness. (2 Tim. 3: 16-17.) It is therefore the duty
ludge and endeavor to eradicate a fault-expose it, let the of every child of God to iudee what is right and what i’s
light shine on it and show it up to those afJected by it, that wrong, what is true and wha< is false. Thit against which
lt may be removed. and grace and beauty take its place. we are cautioned is judging by other standards than the
A very false notion of love obtains among the majority of W’ord of God-condemning on our own, or any other human
Christian people, and under this false notion our adversary authority. That Paul judged according to God’s Word and
endeavors to shield come of the most dangerous and deadly taught the church to do the same is very clear. (See 1 Cor.
errors that seek to sap the very foundation of the Christian’s 5:3r Gal. 2:ll: 1 Thes. 5:21. 2 Tim. 4:21 1 Cor. 6:‘2, 3. Note
houe. Let this dcndlr thina which the adversnrv dares to Paul’s prayer that love might abound in judgment. Phil. 1:fl.l
l&sent to God’s children be touched bv the sw&d of the No doubt Paul’s faithfulness in seekine: to build UP and
%prrit. which is the Word of God, and ‘he who wields it is establish the church in purity of doctrine and life, was-often
znitl to be unch:lritnhlc. loveless. But does this make it so? misunderstood. and failed to be aunreciated bv them. This
Tlr- no means. dcsus wns full of thr love of God, but he spoke is very apparent from 1 Cor. chap. ‘4. “But (he says) it is a
most. eml~hnticnllp nzninst evil doers,:-“Ye blind guides very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s
which strain at a gnat and swallow a camel:” “Woe unto judmrent. He that iudgeth me is the Lord.” Then speaking
you. for you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: of his labor and suffering for them, he says: “I write not
ye ncithcr go in voursrlvrs. nrither suffer ye them that are to shame you, but as mv beloved snnq 1 warn you.”
enterill? tn ,e‘o in.” (M:rtt. 23: 13-43.) And again he said Jesus said : “Rv this shall all men know that vou are
to erring Peter, “Get thee hchind me Satan (adversary), thou my disciples, if ye have love one toward another,” and Paul
art an offence unto me. for thou snrorest not the things that says : “Let love be without dissimulation: abhor that which
he of God. hut those that be of men.” (Matt. 16:23.) But is-evil, cleave to that which is good.” When contending with
how differentlv the Lord’s rebukes affected his loving disciples an unseen, but wily and powerful foe, what mere hypocrisy
and the nroud Pharisees. is that profession of love which fails to warn of immediate
Paul ‘was a noble pattern of his Master’s spirit in his or approaching danger.
zeal for the truth. and his care for fellow members of the The new creature in Christ is a iewel of infinite value.
church. His usual manner toward all, like that of Jesus, was “and every one that loveth him that “begat, loreth him also
kind, generous. and affectionate. hut did Paul cover the truth, that is begotten of him.” ( 1 John 5 : 1. ) Dearly beloved,
shield error. or fail to warn an errino brother or the flock of “be kindly affectioncd one to anothrr. with brotlrrrlv lnvr. in
Crnd against the encroachments of the enemy? If he had so honor preferring one another; ” “Remove, rebuke, exhort (each
done, as an unfaithful steward he would have lost his stew- other1 with all long sufferino and doctrine.” Girt and receive
ardship. Thouvh Peter was a noble soldier of the cross and in the snirit of meekness, rkmemhering that “Love vaunteth
fellow serrnnt %r the Lord. Paul withstood him to the face not itself. is not puffed up, doth not brhavr itself unseemly
when. hy giving way to the old nature for a time. he was to (unbecomingly) seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked,
he hlnmed. (Gal. 2: 11.) Note in connection with this, the thinketh no evil.”
sympathy nnd low existing between these brethren; (2 Pet. By this mutual love, and this care onr for another, will
3 * 15). eritlrntlv the rebuke was accepted in the spirit of all men be able to discover who are rTesus’ disciples-“Let
meekness. And again we find Paul faithfully warning the love be without dissimulation; abhor that which is evil, cleave
church against “some” who had become the enemies of the to that which is good.” So shall you “be blameless and
cross of Christ. Phil. 3:18. harmless, the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a
Does someone object that we must “judge not that we be crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights
not jiidged?” We reply that to exercise hull~dn judgment in in the world.” MRS. C. T. RUSSELL.

MAN’S INHERITANCE
[This article was a reprint of that published in issue of December, 1882, which please see.]

THE ECCLESIA
IThis artielc was a reprint, of that published in issue of October, 1881, which please see.]

THE LORD’S JEWELS

[This article was a reprint of that published in issue of December, 1880. which please see.]

C6NSECRATION
[This article was a reprint of that published in issue of October, 1882: which please see.]

BLESSED DYING-FROM HENCEFORTH

REV. 14: 13
During our general meeting following the anniversary pears that now they have accepted the “orthodox” view of
celebration. 15rnther Brookman received the following letter going to heaven when you die-at least this article seems
from one of the Toronto brethren; and we now answer it to so teach.
through the TO~IX, thinking it may be of interest and profit Can one instance be given of the body of any one now
to others of our rradcrs. It was answered at our public meet- dying in the Lord, disappearing at death? After the resurrec-
lng when rrcrived. and as we were then engaged somewhat tion of our Lord his body was not found in the tomb. Should
in the examination of the Prophetic Time Proofs which show we not therefore, look for the same proofs today of a resurrec-
that we are in “the harvest” of this age, and that the tion? Then too, according to this view, the living saints
chief reaper, the Lord Jesus, is now present, it came with are left behind instead of being caught away together.
cpecial force, and we trust was seen very clearly by all The extracts I refer to a8 as follows:
present. The letter runs thus:
PAST~P. BROOOKYAN: “WE SHALL NOT ALL SLEEP,"
Dear A’ZV and Rrother.-Sow that you are on a visit to “Those [saints] who die in this day of the Lord’s presence
Erothrr Rl~i~~ll, I take this opportunity of sending YOU the do not sleep, but the instant that the human body sinks into
rAn<,losedextracts from article by Mrs. R. Already I know the death, the new spiritual body is received, and according to
TOWER'S views concerning the Lord’s presence, and it ap- Paul’s words, not an instant of unconsciousness intervenes.
C6641
s&PTtWR, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (5)

Because the spiritual body is invisible to humanity, none can error. And inasmuch as we are now making very similar
know of the change except bv faith in the promise of God. claims to those which the Apostle guarded them against, it
The work of the kew Kingdom is now in p;ogress, and the is well that we note carefully his words and see whether
body of Christ whether in the flesh or in the spirit (resur- they disprove our teachings on the subject. If they do, we
rected) are actively engaged as co-workers together with our must abandon the view, no matter how pleasing it may seem;
Lord and head. What a blessed privilege to realize that but if it is in harmony, it will be an additional confirmation
such is the case. of our position.
“Let us appreciate our privilege of service, considering that The Apostle wrote: (2 Thes. 2.) “But we entreat you
we are workers together with the Lord and the risen saints, brethren, concerning the coming [presence-Greek parousial
present with us, though invisible except to the eyes of faith.” of the Lord Jesus Christ, and our assembling to him, that you
Trusting your mission will be blessed, I am, Yours in be not quickly agitated, in mind, nor alarmed; neither by
Christ, G. H. H. spirit, nor by word, nor by letter, as from us-as though
The Brother errs in supposing this to be a new departure; the Day of the Lord was present. Let no man delude you by
and if he will examine some back numbers of the TOW=, any means.” Had the Apostle stopped here, it would not only
he will see that we have so taught for several years-since have proved our teachings as erroneous as those he was refut-
1878. at which time we believe it became true as expressed ing, but it would have done more: it would have proved his
in Revelation 14: 13.-“ Blessed are the dead which die-in the own teachings in the first epistle to the Thessalonians, as well
Lord from henceforth; yea saith the spirit that they may as those to the Corinthians, to be erroneous also. It would
rest from their labors [from the toil and weariness] and their be saying, The day of the Lord never will be present; whereas
works follow with the&“-without interruption or hindrance. he has taught them plainly that “The day of the Lord so
See oarticularlv the articles ‘W h o can hear it?” in the T O W E R cometh [and that too unawares, secretly] as a thief in the
of -O’ctober, 1881, and “Ye are Gods” in December, 1881, and night.“-1 Thes. 5 : 2.
“The Blessed Dying” in the same issue. -But the Apostle is not controverting his previous teachings
The fact that eo called “orthodoxy” teaches something re- that such a day of the Lord’s presercce would come, and se-
sembling what the Scriptures teach, should not be considered cretly; he was merely showing that it had not yet come; for
an argument awinst the view referred to. On the contrary, he continues-“Let no man delude you by any means, BECAUSE
it is more reasonable to suppose that the more pleasing part the apostacy must come first, and must be revealed, that MAN
of what the earlv church believed on this sub&t. had been O F SIB, that SON O F DESTRUCTION, the OPPONENT; who indeed
held to, to the &&ct and ignoring of the “less palatable lifts himself above everything called a god or that.is reverenced
truths. For instance, the hope of each generation of the -so us to seat himself in the TEMPLE of God exhibiting himself
church in earlv times. was. that thev would be of those that he is a god. Do you not remember that while I was with
mentioned by Paul (1 ‘Cor. 15:51, 52): of those who would you I said these things to you?” And now you know, what
be alive when the Lord the life-giver would return; and hence withholdeth [prevents, hinders, comes between] that he
thev houed that thev might not be obliged to sleep in death. [Christ Jesus] should be revealed in his own season. [NOW
*That’ the coming”of the Lord, and the resurrection of the you know why I so positively declare that we are not yet
saints, and the bestowment of the crown of life at that time, in the Day of the Lord.1
were continually before their mind, is manifest from the va- Paul knew of the Man of Sin, from the prophecies of
riouq epistles of the Apostles which direct the faith and hope Daniel, as well no doubt as from visions and revelations
of all thither. given him specially; (Dan. 7 :24, 25. 2 Cor. 12 : l-7 ) , and
Of all the religions of the world, Christianity and Judaism hence said with assurance that the Day of the Lord had not
are the only ones which teach that a man is really dead yet come. But it must strike many as peculiar that he used
when he expires. and that a resurrection is the only hope of this argument alone. As they suppose it, he might have said,
a future life. But when the church began to covet influence 0 fool&h Thessalonians do you not know that &en the Lord
and power, when Papacy was “set up” in power, and the comes vou will see him in the skv in great snlendor 4 Do
cshief aim came to be. to make Christianitv nonular with the vou noi know that you would see ihe tomb-stones shake and
heathen, when thousands of heathen claim”&-& be converted. fall, and the graves-opening, and the risen saints about you,
Papacy .to bring these pagans into her bosom and to gain the if the Lord. and the Dav of the Lord had come? If this
sunuort and strength of their influence, napanized Christianitv. would be a -true argument, it certainly would have been one
introduring gaudy ceremonies, incense ‘burning, and the images of the most convincing to the troubled Thessalonians. And the
of the apostles and saints to take the place in their hearts fact that Paul used none of those arguments is strong evi-
and superstitions of their idols and heathen customs. Can dence that they are not true. On the-contrary the fact that
we wonder that then the cold and rather repulsive doctrine thev had received the doctrine of the Lord’s nreseltce. etc..
of the sleep of the dead, came to be generally ignored? and probes that the Apostle’s previous tclaching had in no wav
that the other thought should be made prominent and, even ied them to suppose that the Lord would‘be visible in the
distorted to make it more palatable, until “W e which are sky in his day, but that it would be “as a thief in the night,”
alive and remain shall not sleen. but shall be charmed in a stealthily and quietly; and that to discern it would re-
moment,” came to be applied- ‘to all Christians -without quire them to w&h and not be overcharged and asleep with
reference to the Lord’s coming? During the darkness of the the world. And even in controvertina this error. Paul offers
ages followina that degrading of the doctrines of Christianity, no objection to the theory that the- Day of the Lord had
and the great influx o‘f tarelamong the wheat, the Bible was commenced, except that above noticed-that another event,
almost abandoned and its teachings on the subject were lost the development and recealing of Anti-Christ must come FIRST.
sight of. It is then, proper to say that Paul’s statement here.
I’ One thing sure, is that the same Apostle who teaches that favors OUR VIEW entirely, if it can be clearly seeu that the
the dead all SbXD until the Life-aiver comes. and that thev apostacy he mentions did since take place, nud that the ‘3Iau
will then be awakened, teaches aI& that those living in th& of Sin,” or mystery of iniquity, has beeu revealed. This we
time will not sleep. have time and again shown to be the case, and pointed to
To some already instructed on this subject of the change the unquestionable fulfillment in Papacy of every item men-
of the living in the Day of the Lord’s presence, Paul wrote, tion by David and Paul-hence so far as Paul knew, or as we
“Yourselves- know perfectly that the DAY O F +HE LORD so know, nothing now hinders.
cometh as a thief in the night.” . . . . “Ye brethren are not Since then, nothing now prevent<, the question is. What
in darkness that that DAY ‘;;hould overtake you as a thief.” proofs are there to &ow that wp are unw jn the day of the
. . . . “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain Lord’s nresence? W e cannot here rrive the nrouhetic uroofa.
salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thess. 5:2, 4, 9; but hope to soon lay before you t&c S~rip’tur~~l demonstra-
see also chap. 2: 19, 20 and 3: 13 and 4:17.) From this the tions that we are in the day of the J,ord since 1874. nud that
Thessalonian brethren seem to have drawn a wrong conclusion, his taking of his great uower as Iiiur to iudrc and break
supposing the Apostle to intimate that the dav of the Lord in pieces -present unright6ous system+. hs &il A to esnlt to
would surely come in their day. And certafn teachers of honor and glory the faithful members of his “body”-the
that dav. led bv their own imaeinations. began to nroclaim true church-dates from 1878; at, nl11~11 tiru~~ we uudrrsti~nd
that the’ Day c?f the Lord had”commen&d;” that t-he Lord that the sleeping members of his body WCI‘P due to awake to
was then present, and that the dead had been resurrected. immortalitv. And since that date tlto4c of this clns:: alive.
(See 2 Tim. 217, 18.) And the Thessalonian church knowing need not sl>ep even a moment; but in the inbtnnt of dying are
that Paul’s teachings were not out of harmony with this changed to spiritual beinfrs--h\~;lllo\rrtl up of life.
proclamation, were much exercised and troubled to know Even to those who had &otlc houc?; of re~urrcction to
whether it was true that the Day of the Lord had come. spiritual being, the Adamica tlCAth or slc’cp, \virs not a desirable
To meet their difficulty, Paul wrote them the second thing, hence the Apostlr qay* that he dcsircd not to be uu-
epistle in which the main thought is the correcting of this clothed, but rather to br c~lotbcd upon with the 11r:lvculy
I6661
161 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

+iritual house or body. But only to those alive in this day by being “changed.” Rather, it is in harmony, as we shall
of the Lord, has it been possible to have this instant transfer show, with Paul’s statements regarding this subject, as stated
of rsi~tence or being, from the earthly to the heavenly body, below.
witbout sleep-with:ut being unclothed for a moment: - “THAT BODY WHICH SHALL BE”
We do not here cite vou nroof from the dailv historv of “Thou sowest not tbat body which shall be, but bare
our times, that the iud&ent-and
I -
overthrow of all impeifect grain. it mav chance of wheat or some other grain: but God
civil and rell,nious systems is in progress, as a proof that giveth it a body as it hath pleased him; andU to every seed
we are in the Day of the Lord’s presence and power, as we his own [kind of] body.” 1 Cor. 15:37, 38.
have noticed this before. The Apostle uses this illustration from nature to teach
HIS FLESH SAW NOT UORRUPTION
the churc6 regarding-what? Not regarding the living, but
those dead. He is answering the auestion f verse 35). “How
We now come directly to the consideration of the question are the dead raised up, and Gith w6at [kind’of] body’ho they
asked above. viz.: Has the body of any saint dving: now [for come” [forth] in the resurrection. We must keep this in
we claim &is only of the bo;y of Christ-“in <he Lord,‘] memory to get the force of the Apostle’s argument.
dIsappeared at death, as our Lord’s did? No, we answer; nor He shows that there are varieties of earthly nature-men,
have we any reason so to expect. fish, fowl, beasts, etc., and also variety in thh heavens, sun,
In the case of our Lord’s resurrection, we must remember moon and stars: and he adds these two illustrations of va-
that the circumstances were peculiar and different from those riety and differences, to his first illustration of grain. As
of our resurrection. First, he wanted his disciples to realize the dying and living again of the grain best illustrated
thnt he was no longer dead; secondly, that he-was changed, TEE FACT of the dead coming forth to life, so the varieties
and no longer the human Jesus, but a spirit being; thirdly, and differences of fish, fowl, Etc., and of sun moon and stars
that he had paid our ransom price and had not taken it illustrate the DIFFERENCES which should be expected in the
back, yet, was-alive and able to bestow upon all the blessings resurrection. Some (the body or bride of Christ) will be
nurcbased with His own blood. Added to this commehensive
1 a like him and will come forth snirit beinns-celestial. while the
oblect of proving his resurrection, was the difficulty that mass of mankind will cafe f&th hum& beings--terrestrial.
tbbse to whom -he must prove all this, were stiil only There will be glory to both classes, though differing as the
natural men. not vet begotten of the spirit: for “the Holy glory and beauty of fish, fowl, etc. differ from the glory of
Spirit was ;lot yei give; because that- Jesus was not yei sun and stars in KIND.
glorified” (John 7-39)) and “the natural men receive&h not And that there will be grades or degrees of glory on each
the tbinns of the suirit of God, neither can he know them, plane, is also shown, even as the moon is beautiful but less
because “they are spiritually d&cerned.,, Hence in giving Majestic than the sun, so some of those who come forth spir-
natural men a first lesson relating to spiritual things, it was itual will, though glorious and Derfect. be less grand than
needful to make the lesson so plain that the least of them others ; and on-thg earthly pIaGe there will be-variety in
might be fully convinced. perfection and glory also.
Accordingly it was necessary, not only that Jesus should show After stating thus the general DrinciDles. the ADostle
himself alive by manv infallible proofs after his resurrection proceeds to expGin particularly "THI?' chief r&urrection, in
(Acts 1:3), bui that-this should-be shown in such a way as which as nrosnective members of the bodv of Christ. the
to convince them that he had been “changed.” and was of a Corinthian’Chu>ch and all saints would ha& special interest.
higher nature than before; and it was al& needful to remove And keeping in mind the original question, “Ho& are the DEAD
his body from Joseph’s tomb, as its presence there, would to raised uv and with what bodv do thev come” forth. he avvlies
them as natural men, have been a serious obstacle to im- his an&er now to the class "DEAD in”Christdead’“me~&rs,,
plicit faith. It was for this reason that the body of Jesus of Christ’s body, and says:-
was removed from the tomb, and not because the atoms of “So also is THE [chief] resurrection OF THE DEAD." [Re-
matter contained in it were needed or used in the organiza- member that he is not talking about the living as some have
tion of his spirit body. And the fact that the body-would erroneously supposed, but of those who were already dead.]
vanish. be dissinated or dissolved without corruetine or decav- “It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption; it is
lng, was mentibned by the prophet--“His flesh sa’w not co;- sown in dishonor, it i^s raised in glory; it is sown ii weikneas,
ruption.” it is raised in Dower: it is sown a natural lanimall bodv. it
-1 vcrv common mistake in reference to the resurrection is raised a spiiitual ‘body.,,-Verses 42-44. - - “’
ns espre&ed in the words of the various creeds is, “I be- What is sown thus and raised thus? The being-the
lieve in the resurrection of the body.” This is a serious mis- individualitv sown in death thus, is raised from it thus. The
take; the Scriptures never teach the resurrection of the body, Apostle is Lolding to his original illustration. The germ of
but of the individual-the being. A body is necessary to life is the erain of wheat which will vroduce the new stalk.
existence or being. but the body and atoms once used in is not the &tire grain planted, for all-decays and dies excepi
that capacity are not essential. Science tells us on seeming- this gems. So with the being entering death, or sown in death.
ly good authority that the matter composing our bodies is Being cannot be considered apart from a body, and hence
tonstantlv chanpinr, and that a complete chanae of every being is reckoned as still associated with the body which
part is efiected 1; s&en years. Consequently a man of seventi is sown in the corruption of death. It is not the corrupted
years would have ten bodies if all the atoms which ever body, but the being, which God will raise up in a new appro-
Composed his flesh were restored. priate body, even as in the grain, it is not the old grain but the
gut not so, one atom is no better than another; and SO germ or vitality from it which comes forth in a new grain.
even in the case of the world who will be restored to existence But says some one a grain of wheat has a germ which
as human flesh-beings, we must not expect that necessarily lives while the grain decomposes, which germ may be seen
the same atoms will be used again in restoring them to in some seeds; but man has no such germ. No, we answer;
being. Consequently though God could and might make the germ of life in man and in grain differs, and so does also
Lome outward demonstration, such as opening of tombs for the process of resurrection; man does not sprout forth
the purpose of showing to the world his power, yet we must as a shoot of arain, nor does the Apostle use the illus-
not conclude that such a demonstration is necessary, nor that tration for such-purpose. Nevertheless- man has a gernt of
the old and scattered and transformed dust, is needful to being, though unlike the grain, it is not in himself, but
God ai a basis on which to work in restoring or resurrecting in another. The germ of life through which man shall be
mankind. It requires equally creative power to resurrect or restored to being [whether of earthly or heavenly nature] is
recreate a man from one heap of dust as from another. “hid with Christ in God.” (Col. 3:3.) It is in God, in the
And if the same dust is not needful in the case of sense that it is decreed in ‘God’s plan and possible through
restoring humanity, how much less needful for the “new God’s Dower. It is with Christ in the sense that God’s vlan is
creatures.” the church. no loneer human. no longer flesh. but &ix@ &complished through Christ who ransomed and jistifiee
bplrit-a’ new nature; not auf the dusk, not Gf the earth all. It is thus that “all live unto him.” (Luke 20: 38.)
earthly, but heavenly. ,4nd consequently we need neither God seeine the end from the bednninn thus considers
expect an opening of tombs for those that sleep, nor a trans- things and me’n that are not, as though they-were. (Rom. 4:
forming of present fleshly bodies for the living in their 17.) Thus death is really extinction, but because of God’s
“change.” plan to ransom and restore all from it through Christ Jesus,
Consequently the non-disappearance of bodies is not a valid he gave his “friends” in all ages to know that Adamic death
objection, if t& Scriptures @eve and events corroborate the is merely a sleep, in view of the resurrection waking he
fact that we are now in the dav of the Lord. and in conse- had abundantly provided for in his plan; which before the
quence that those members of the body of Christ who slept foundation of the world foresaw and provided the Lamb slain,
are now due to be awakened, and that those members yet to take away the sins of the world by paying the penalty of
alive should not sleep, but be blessed in the instant of dying Adamic sin for all.
C6661
!?EPTEMBER, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (C-7)

SOUL, LIP& BEING three days, he was made alive from the dead, being or existence
The Greek word psuche is translated soul in some places, returned, it was no longer human being; he was made a life-
and sometimes life in the various translations. For instance, giving spirit-a being of a higher order, of the divine nature.
it is translated life in John 12 :25, “He that loveth his life To use the words nephesh and nsuohe otherwise. to SUD-
shall lose it” and it is translated soul in Acts 2 :2’7 “Thou pose that they merely -refer to present earthly existenck,
wilt not leave my soul in hell” [hades-the state of death]. would be not only to prove that God is an earthly or animal
This word psuche has rather puzzled scholars for a defini- being, but that Jesus, after his resurrection, was of the
tion, and the learned translators of the common revision of earth earthly, whereas -the statement is clear that “God is d
the New Testament, have translated it four different ways, spirit,’ and that the “Second Adam was made a ouickenine A ”
viz., heart, mind, fife, soul; the last two generally. Pkf; s$rit;”
Youner author of You&s Concordance. ddnes muche and the The Greek word for life is not psuche, but zoe; and so
correiponding Hebrew “word meph.esh & mean “animal 80~1,” it is uniformly translated throughout the New Testament:
thus iimiting the word to earihly existence; but we cannot and it was a serious mistake on -the part of the translator;
agree to this detinition. nor to anv definition which would of the Bible to ever render muche life. as in the text above.
l&it these words to earthly existknce exclusively, for the In consequence of the translation, sake have supposed that
word is applied to God who is not an animal or earthly our Lord Jesus took back the price he paid as our ransom.
being, but a spirit being. Hence in defining these words we This could never be: for if the mice naid were taken back.
have sought such a definition as could be applied to these we are not redeemed, and ha<e no A ground for hope oi
words in everv instance of their use in the Bible. and that coming blessings.
definition we gonceive to be being, or existence, witgout regard But when the real significance of psuche is noticed, how
to whether heavenly or earthly, animal or spiritual i&g is clear it all becomes. The man Christ Jesus laid down
meant. his psucwbeing, existence, as a ransom for ours-for all.
Being, or existence, is not life though there could be no That existence he can never take again-he can never again
existence without life: neither is it bode or oreanism. thoueh be a human being. He surrendered all those earthly and
there can be no existe&e without a bod$ Heacis an ‘illuat% human rights as a ransom for mankind, and thereby secures
tion of this principle; coal is not heat, nor is oxygen heat; to mankind all those blessings and rights lost by their first
but when coal and oxygen are properly and favorably representative’s failure. Then being, existence, [psuche] was
united heat is produced; when they are separated heat ceases. bestowed upon Jesus as a gift of God’s favor. a reward of
So it is with being; when life principle and organism are obedience; -and while it c&d not be the same order of
properly favorably united, being or existence is produced; when being, it could be a higher one. And so it was; and thus
they are separated existence or being ceases. it is written, “Wherefore [as a reward., because of obedience
Those who recognize being, aa the correct definition of even unto death-verse 8.1 God hath highly exalted him, and
psuche will see that the existence, the b&g, terminated by given his a name which is above every name,“-next to the
Adamic death, may be restored or resurrected either as it Father: of the divine nature; “that all men should honor the
z;;As; in connection with any form of organism God may Son even as they honor the Father also.“-Phil. 2:9, 10.
. In resurrecting it God plveth it a body as it hath The Lord applies this principle to us, a8 well as to himself.
pleased him-to every Kind of se&l his own apprbpriate body. Of those who covenant to be dead with him that they may
The original seed was human, “of the earth earthly,” and also live with him and share his divine nature and alorv.
“very good,” an image of God in clay. But during the he declares, “He that loveth [supremely] his life [ps&e~
Christian Age under the “high calling,” the “heavenly calling” being, existence] shall lose it; and he that hateth [subor-
to “become partakers of the divine nature,” a little flock has dinates] his life [psuche-being] in this world shall keep it
already changed nature and become “new creatures”-new unto life [xoe] eternal.“-John 12:25, 26.
beings. In the resurrection. therefore. God will eive to Those who would he the followers of, and sharers with,
these two classes bodies according to ’ their naturg -The Jesus, must during this world willingly lay down existence,
human seed will be restored to perfect manhood; and the in his service. Thus only can these preserve their [psuche]
new seed, the “new beings,” will be raised in appropriate existence unto eternal [zoe] life. But with them as with him,
bodies-“as it hath pleased him” to give each seed his own it will not be the same kind of existence, for whereas thev
appropriate form or- organism. It d%th appear to a great lay down being or existence as human beings, they, like the&
degree what form, etc., the earthly race will have, though head, shall receive it [psuche, existence] again as new crea-
it is difficult to appreciate the grandeur of the perfect man tures, “partakers of the divine nature.” It is of these that
Adam now. As was the earthlv head. so will thev be also Paul said, “It [the being] is sown a natural body, in weakness
that are earthly, when fullv res&rected. and corruption and dishonor: it is raised a sniritual bodv” in
On the con&ary, the change for the others, we cannot 80 power, @c&y, and incorruption. 1 Cor. 15 : 42-44.
fully grasp; for “It doth not yet appear what we shall be, If you could change the nature of a grain of wheat
but . . . . we shall be like him”-Christ Jesus, the head of to that of barley, it would come up barlev. So these having
the new creation. As the heavenly one, such shall they also become (through obedience to the Special high calling of thii
be that are of the heavenlv seed. or new nature. W e have Gospel Age) changed from the human to the divine nature (2
borne the earthly image, bui by r&son of “change” shall bear Pet: 1:4r will, ii the resurrection, come forth like Jesus
the heavenly image in our resurrection. See 1 Cor. 15:49. “the express image of the Father’s person”-psuche of the
divine form and nature.
PSUCHE LAID D O W N BY JESUS “OAUGHT UP TOGETHER”
This same thought of continuance of being, or individuality, (1 THES. 4:17)
through death and change of nature expressed above is In view of the Apostle’s statement of the order of events
illustrated in the person of our Lord Jesus. He said:- in the day of the sord’s presence; namely that “The dead
“I lay down my life [psuchel that I might take [liter- in Christ shall rise first. then we which are alive and remain
ally, receive] it again. No man taketh it from me, but I shall be caught away together with them in clouds to a
lay it down of myself. I have power [privilege, authority] meeting of the Lord in the air,” it may be asked, Does not
to lay it down, and I have power [ rivilege] to take [re- the view presented above. namelv. that since 1878 the dead
ceive] it again. The commandment Pword, precept] have I in Christ -have been raiskd 8piri”t’ual beings, and that since
received of mv Father.“-John 10:17. 18. then those who are alive are “changed,” each at the moment
Here Jesis declares that he laii down his “nsuche.” or of his death-does not this view conflict with the apostle’8
being, for the sheep, and received it back again in his statement 9
resurrection. W h e n he laid down his beina. “noured out his W e answer no; though at first glance it may appear to
soul [being] unto death,” (Isa. 53:12) m&e -‘%is soul [be- do so. W e should remember that the apostles were not
ing] an o&ring for sin” .( Isa. 53 : lo), it was a human soul, or only expounders of the prophetic utterances of holy men of
human being; he having changed from a spirit being to a old whom God moved unon bv his Snirit to declare thinrs
human being, for the purpose of thus laying down his being to come to figures and *dark “sayings: but thev were the;-
(psuche) in death for our sins, as our ransom price.* But selves prophets also, and in fore&l&g events -not then due.
when, after his being had been fully laid down in death for they also used flares, svmbols, and dark snvinrs. to be
understood by the-Chu&h”when ‘they would bc&mg &at in
l When our Lord was changed from spirit being to human being, due seasons. This was true also of Jesus’ teaching. He not
when he was “made flesh ” that change was truly a laying aside of glory,
power? etc., but it was iot at all a laying aside of being or existence; only expounded the prophets, but he oprncd his mouth in
for ins existence or being did not cease for a moment, but merely parable& prophecies &d-dark- sayings.-IIatt 13 : 34. 35.
changed in kind. Instead of a spirit being. he became human being- Among the prophecies by the apostles clothed 111 figwxtivc
“flesh.” Rut at Calvary, being or existence was laid down completely; or symbolic language, is that of James 5 relating to the
he died, or ceased to exist,-gave his being, his existence his psuche “a
ransom “-Mark 10.45
. . present time, verses 2 and 3 are highly figurative. Peter’s
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(7) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH,PA.

prophecy covering the same period is even more strikingly fully plain and clear of which he could only give them a
ilrurative.
L.
(2 Pet. 3 :7, 10. 13.) John’s prophecy. the book of glimpse. And he declares of the living, ‘We shall not all
Revelations. ~ is full of s’ymbols. And- in’ considering the sleep, but we shall all be changed in a moment, in the
apostle Paul’s writings, we should expect that prophetic twinkling of an eye, AT [Greek en, during, or in] the last
refcrrnce to this notable “Day of the Lord” would be more trump.” Here the symbolic trumpet is again introduced, which
or less srmbolic also. Peter assures us that it is so; and covers the period of forty years called The Day of the
that Paul’s writinas are liable to be misunderstood bv” some. Lord; and it is during, or in this time, that the dead saints
-See 2 Pet. 3: 16: shall be raised and the living members “changed.” For the
As a matter of fact in this very portion of Paul’s prophecy trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised incorruptible
touching the events of the Day of the Lord (1 Thes. 4:16, and we shall be charmed. While. therefore. all must be
17 1, we find the same symbols used by the others. Paul in- changed, and the change of each will be “in a moment,” all
troduces these symbols but does not interpret them, leaving will not be raised and changed in the same moment-the
that for the Spirit of truth to do for those of the Church dead in Christ shall rise first; then we-continuously, with-
who mav be watching and searching at the due time. out interruption or anything to prevent, together will be
Paul’s “shout” and “trumpet” of verse I6 corresponds in caught with them into the power of the air.
every way with those used by John (Rev. 11: 15), and the OTHER SIMULTANEOUS EVENTS
same event in Daniel’s prophecy (12: 1) is called the stand- While during the sounding of the Great or Seventh
ing up of the arch-angel aiichael; for the same results are Trumnet. the Dav of the Lord. the aatherum and rewardine
described as following, viz., the angry nations and time of of his faithful followers will ‘be a&omplished, other greax
trouble which Peter and Zephaniah and Paul call the melting events will occur simultaneously. The earth is to melt [society
of the earth [the social fabric] and flaming fire.-Compare is to disintegrate], the sea and waves are to roar [the lawless
2 Pet. 3:lO; Psa. Q7:5iZeph. 3:8; Rev. 11:17, and 2 Then. 1:s. element will become furious], and mountains will be removed
Paul’s “clouds” (verse 17 ) in which the living are to be and carried into the midst of the sea-[governments will be
caught away, coincide exactly with the “clouds and thick swallowed up bv the lawless element+the heavens [present
darkness” of trouble, by wh’ich all the prophets so often ruling powers] are to pass away with great commotion.- These
represent the troubles of this Day of the Lord. And the all shall pass away, that the “new heavens,” “air,” or ruling
“air” into which they are caught, and in which they are powers of which Christ is the Prince, may gradually assume
to ever be with the Lord, we apprehend to be no less a control and reorganize society on better principles. All these
svmbol than the others. A svmbol of what?-Of power and things will be in progress simultaneously, during the seventh
d”ominion. And if we are to”be “changed” and ar’e to enter trump-the day of vengeance-the day of binding the strong
into and share this dominion, how appropriate to say in man and spoiling and overturning his arrangements in order
srmbol that we will be caught into the “air” Apower, and he to establish a better.-Matt. 12:29.
forever in it, with the Lord. v Or take another view of the same period given by other
Thus the same word is used elsewhere by the same apostle. nronhets: the natherina of the dead and livme members of
In Enh. 2:2 he sneaks of the “newer of the air.” and de-
I I s ihe’body of Christ wi‘il proceed during the &me when the
clares that Satan now holds that “power” which. the “air” rich men will weep and howl for the miseries upon them-
symbolizes. And when we remember that “sea” in symbol (Jas. 5: 1-3; Zeph. 1: 18) ; during the time when the nations
renresents the lawless and unrulv classes of men, that “earth” are angry and the wrath comes upou them (Rev. 11: IS, and
represents organized society, and that “mountains” represent Dan. 12: 1) ; during the time that the fiery stream of trouble
earthlv eovernments. what is more reasonable than that the issues forth, and the Son of man is invested with nutl1orit.y
“air” ”or v”heavensy’ should be used to symbolize the invisible and dominion (Dan. 7: 10) ; during the time that the stone 1s
yet all-pervading power and influence of spirit beings. smiting the feet of the image-present earthly governmeuts
And if “air” is thus used to represent the present evil (Dan 2:34) ; during the time that earthly empires become as
sniritual control. how antmonriate that the same svmbol chaff and are swept away completely (verse 35) ; duriug the
should be used in describfng the new spiritual empire Gf the time mentioned by the Revelator ( 19 : 11-21) , in which the
Prince of light who becomes the new Prince of the air, and kings of the earth and their armies will be making war with
deposes and binds the present usurper. the Lamb and his army unconsciously-not recognizing him.
As to the word “caught away in clouds together;” we When these various events of “that day” are put together,
should remember that all prophecies looking down to this it must be evident to the most slow of heart to* belie6 that
little period called the “Day of the Lord” and the “Day of the prophets have written, that during that entire period, not
Trouble,” state the many great events of this time as though onlv the Lord will be invisible to men, but that the resurrec-
they would all take place together; and so they do, for nothing tion of his saints, and the change of those living, will make
inter-relies to break the chain of events; link follows link, no outward demonstration. Surelv if the world saw Jesus
and they go all together, clouds of trouble follow one another and the saints in glory in the sky, with the natural eyes,
closely, the one fading away where the next is beginning. Like can any one suppose that they would openly war with the
the cars in a train, thev all go together, and set one is first Lamb and his army? Nay, verily ; the day of the
and another is last.’ So “likewise the living will be caught away Lord so cometh as a thief in the night, and the fact
in these clouds to the new power of the air, together-just of the Lord’s presence, etc., will only be revealed or made
as when a school is dismissed the pupils leave it together, known to the world in the “flaming fire” of judgments, though
yet they do not all pass through the-doorway at once.- those of his close followers whom he calls “friends” are not
Paul exnlainine the same matter to the church at Corinth to be in darkness as others, for they have a sure word of
(1 Cor. 15 ::?l, 52 ,” calls it a mystery-a matter not yet made prophecy to which they take heed.

THE WORLD’S CRISIS

“?iow the krisis of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.“-John 12:31.
The Greek word rendered judgment, in this text, is the the disciples on this occasion. The wonderful miracle had
word knsts from which our English word crisis is derived, and been noised abroad among the Jews, and as they came up
to which the same exact meaning is given, viz., The point to Jerusalem multitudes made it a point to see Lazarus, and
of time when any course of action must terminate or take Jesus who had raised him from the dead. And when they
a new course, the decisive moment, the turning point; as had seen, the people were convinced that this must be the
the rri,is of disease. when the turning point for life or Messiah, the king long foretold by the prophets; and upon
death is reached. Compare Liddell and Scott’s Greek Lexicon the spur of their convictions thev determined to acknowledge
and Webster’< I)iction;~ry. The word judgment, does not im- him publicly as their king. And “when they heard that
uroperlv tran-late the word: for there is a crisis, a sharnlv Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, they took branches of
;lef;ned-dcci<ive turning point in every trial or judgment. !!&“e palm trees, and w&t forth to meet him; and cried, Hosanna,
cri+rs, the decisive pomt of judgment was that to which Jesus Blessed is the king of Israel, that cometh in the name of the
referred in the ahove quotation. Lord “-John 12.12 13
It was just a few days before his crucifixion that he uttered But while the hearts of his disciples bounded high with
the-e words in full view of the terrible experiences which glowing anticipations as they saw these evidences of public
muit shortlv follow. h-ot long before this he had raised to life favor, Jesus was sorrowful, knowing that his hour was come.
Lazarus, the brother of Martha and Mary, who were then He knew that the prophecy of Isaiah was about to be fulfilled
livinrr in Bcthanv about two miles from Jerusalem. whither the -that he was about to be wounded for our transeressions and
#Jews’ from all parts assemhled to keep the Passover. The bruised for our iniquities; that the chastisement-of our peace
sisters had arranged for the entertainment of Jesus and was about to be upon him; that it would please the Lord to
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bruise him, to put him to grief, to make his soul an offering the divine Word, know that the time now draws very near
for sin, to permit him to pour out his soul unto death, and be when the world shall all see and experience the blessed results
numbered with the transgressors.-Isa. 53. which must flow from the decisive act of our Lord at the
Knowinn the bitter disauuointment that must soon over- moment of the world’s crisis.
take the hgpes of his disciples, Jesus sought to prepare them The world has passed through two crises in its two repre-
in a measure to receive it. He talked to them of the necessity sentatives Adam and Jesus, though unaware of both. The
of entire consecration to the will of God, even if he should decisive instant, the crisis, came in each case which deter-
require them to lay down life itself in his cause; and then mined certain results to the world. In the, first instance the
he asured them that the Father would assuredly honor and crisis was followed by the “krima” or sentence; sentence came
reward such service. by the one man Adam upon all his race unto condemnation
As he approached the last dreadful conflict, in full view to death. In the second instance also the crisis was followed
of it. and with a fixed determination to submit his will by “krima” or sentence which came by the one man Christ
fully’to the will of God, even unto death, he said: “NOW Jesus, unto justification to life (Rom. 5:17-19) giving all the
is my soul troubled, and what shall I say ? Father, save right to live because “redeemed,” “bought” “purchased by the
me from this hour? Rut [no], for this cause came I unto this precious blood of Christ,” who gave himself a ransom for all.
hour : Father, glorify thy name.” (vs. 27, 28.) Yes, he had to be testified to all in due time.
come to this dread hour for the verv uuruose of suffering While the right to live again which was purchased for
death, that thereby he might redeem ihe -world from thi all mankind by the death of Christ, is an everlasting right
condemnation of death. which never can nor will be disputed nor ignored by God,
It was in reference to this fact that Jesus said, “NOW is it yet remains for man to individually claim the everlasting
the crisis of this world.” Yet the world was entirely un- continuance of that right, by compliance with the conditions
aware of its critical situation at that moment. The world’s upon which it is offered; for this right, thus purchased at
salvation was in the balance then. All depended upon ths so great a cost may be again forfeited by men. But it can
faithfulness of him who was about to redeem them with his never again be forfeited by a representative, as in the first in-
own precious blood. No wonder that when in Gethsemane’s stance. Each individual redeemed in the second representa-
garden, realizing the awful responsibility upon him, and tive crisis, must stand trial for himself, and prove his own
the agony of bearing it, Jesus sweat great drops of blood; no claim to an everlasting continuance of life by obedience, or
wonder that weary and faint and longing for human sympathy, else by disobedience forfeit life for himself-but not for
he came time and again to his disciples who could not realize another.
the situation, longing for their sympathy and saying, Can There is then, a coming individual trial or judgment and
ye not watch with me one hour? (Mark 14:34, 37.) Little there will therefore be a crisis, a turning point, a decisive
did they realize that at that critical hour their own and the moment and act to each individual, upon which will hinge
whole world’s salvation hune: uDon the shoulders of their the issues of the everlasting future for life or death, in his
trembling, suffering Lord. Yes, i’t was the dark hour of the individual case. If he gratefully accepts of life and its
world’s crisis. privileges and future possibilities as the purchase of the
The world was being judged again, in its second represen- precious blood of Christ, and if he fully and from the heart
tative. the man Christ Jesus. who then took uuon himself the complies with the conditions of its everlasting continuance, viz.,
penalty which had fallen upon Adam and ihe race repre- obedience to God, then the crisis is past, and the “k&ma” or
sented in him, thereby substituting his human being, puwhe, sentence, is in his favor-to life everlasting: otherwise it is
for that of the man Adam and those represented in him. against him-to the second death. Nor will the life once
From the moment that Jesus said, “It is finished,” and redeemed, and then again individually forfeited, ever be
died, the crisis was past. That was the great turning point, the redeemed again-“Christ dieth no more;” “there remaineth
decisive act which -legally released man from the bondage of no more a sacrifice for sins.” Such ungrateful, willful. dcliber-
death nnd secured for him the right to live again. (Rom. ate sinners justly merit and shall die the second death.
3:25, 26.) That was the decisive act which made Christ But while the church with all the world has passecl
the rightful Lord of the human race which he thus purchased through the first two crises as represented in Adam and
bv his death. (Rom. 14:D.) And in that it gave to Christ Jesus, the church shall not come into judgment with the
the right to ruie, it fixed the doom of Satan the usurper. world--John 5:24. K&is is here translated condemnation.
“Now.” from that moment it was a settled thinn that the The church will be receiving her reward. when the world’s
Dresent “prince of this world,” Satan, who has thi power of individual crisis or judgment is in process. But the church
death and reigns only to deceive, oppress and destroy man- is not exempt from individual judgment; her crisis takes
kind. shall be cast out. Thus through death Jesus snoiled place before the Millennial Age, during the Gospel Age now
the principalities and powers of darkness, and openly showed closing. Each member of the church therefore in the present
it in his resurrection. thus triumnhina over them throueh life is standing on trial for himself, and at some time during
death.-Col. 2 :14, 15. ‘Satan’s pre&t s&as is only permittved the judgment there comes a critical decisive point to each in-
until the time appointed of the Father. His sentence of dividual of the church-a time which proves to be the crisis of
ejectment was sealed at Calvary. our course, where a standstill is not possible. but where we
That the decisive act which determined this change of must go forward either in the right or the wrong direction,
rulership, aud turned the condemnation from the world, was either to the fulfilling of our covenant or the ignoring of it
the death of Christ, is clearly seen from the following In fart, every test that is applied to us, places uq in n
verses (32, 33). “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, win critical situation, so that we need to watch and pray that
draw all men unto me.” “This he said, signifying what we may have strength to overcome. And to each there
death he should die.” Jesus had spoken before of his being will rome a final test, as in our Lord’s case. While the
lifted up, referring to his crucifixion (John 3:14, 15 and world’s representative crisis was reached at the time ap-
8:28). and the people whom he now addressed riahtlv under- pointed for Jesus to lay down his life in sacrifice, it was
stood ‘him to reier -to his death. But ignoring th; prophecies also a rrisis to him as an individual. As an individual hc
which foretold the death of Christ, they reasoned, If this was being tested, and proved worthy of the glory to be
be the Christ, how can this be: for the Scripture saith, revealed in him.
Christ abideth. forever. Blinded by prejudice, they overlooked The final test in our indvidual cases may not always be
or ignored the DroDhecies which foretold the sufferines. and at death. If we have been faithful in the preceding tests, or
saw &ly the glo;y ihat should follow-l Pet. 1: 11. ” ’ if we have been rightly exercised by the discipline of the
The only reply which Jesus made was to not deceive them- Lord, the closing scene of life will be the last test. It is
selves thus. (Vs. 35. 36.) possible, however, for a consecrated one to ignore and despise
The world’s crisis came and passed, yet the world was his covenant and to refuse further compliance with it and to
totally unaware of it. As in the crisis of a disease, the ignore and despise the discipline of the Lord, or to despise
patient may be entirely unaware of the change which takes the means by which God brought this salvation to men-
Dlace at the critical moment, vet it may be clearlv discerned even the precious blood of Christ. Such rcnrh the criqis and
by the skilled physician, so th”e world was uncon&ous of the turn it unfavorably before death. But to those who con-
change which the death of Christ secured for all-the privilege tinue faithful and obedient, the final moment of crisps is at
of restitution to perfection, to harmony with God, and con- death, even as with the Master-“faithful unto death.”
sequently thorough obedience to everlasting life. With thankfulness for the grace which cnrrird us through
And although nearly two thousand years have elapsed since the crisis of our redemption through the death of Christ.
the crisis was passed, the mass of mankind are still unaware may each individual of those now 011 trial. wstcab and pray
of the good tidings of great joy which shall in due time that he may successfully pass through the crisi< of 111s own
be to all people. Those however who have been students of individual trial.
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 WAITING FOR HIS COMING
If in this world only we have hope we are of all creatures peace-if, in short, we can no longer believe in the advent
the most mie~r;thle. It is comparatively easy for the few of and reign of Christ, then surely every thoughtful spectator
us who live in comfort, who have been refined by culture and of this vast tragedy must say, “It were better for men that
thoupht till U-C rnn spe how the shadows of time lend a new they had never been born !”
intensity and beauty to its lights, and how pain and suffering But if we believe in this great promise, if we cherish this
;lre a discipline in wisdom and goodness, to think this world great hope, then can we with patience wait for it. And this
a very tolerable one. and to regard human life as a grand, a is the very posture which our Lord enjoins. He would have
sacred possession. Bnt think what life is to the countless us to be like servants who watch for the coming of their Lord,
myriads of our race: think what the world is, and has been, that, when he comes, they may open to him immediately. He
ns a whole. Remember how in all ages the vast majority of would have us believe in, and look for, the advent of a better
men have been plagued 1)~ toil, by care, by fear, by sordid era, in which all the wrongs will be rectified. He would have
penury : how they hare been crushed under the bloody heels us sustain ourselves under all the toils and sorrows of our
of t>-rants n-ho wcrr bound to protect them, maimed and tor- individual lot, and under the still heavier oppression of the
tulc~l. stultific:l nntl coerced, by the very priests who were world’s lot, by looking forward to tha.t end and purpose of
hound to enlighten and emancipate them; how they have been the Lord God Almighty which will vindicate all the ways in
derinlnted and dcgradcd by war, by famine, by disease, by which we have been led, the painful discipline by which we
ignorance and superstition; and who can deny that, if this have been tried and purified and refined. And whosoever holds
life be all. then human life taken as a whole, is the most fast this great hope for himself and for the world at large,
fatal of blunders. of curses the most’terrible? If the tragedy he is a true believer in the distinct promise of the New Testa-
of human life be pregnant with no divine purpose, if there ment, viz.: the second advent of Christ, and may use with
he no better time coming, no golden age of righteousness and sinrerity all it has expressed.-The Eapositor.

INSPIRATION
IThis nrticalr was a reprint of that published in issue of February, 1883, which please see.]

‘.;\nd O! thr blest morning already is here; “When on thine own image in me thou hnst smiled,
The shadows of nature do fade; Within thy blest mansion, and when
=Ind soon iti thy likencsq I’ll with thee appear, The arms of my Father encircle his child,
In glory and licnuty arrayed. 0 ! I shall be satisfied then.”

WIIESIXER I mert with the will of God, I feel that I meet be made philosophical_ly, God and the will of God are to mc
with God : whenever I respect and love the will of God, I the same. He who is m perfect harmony with the will of God,
feel that I lore and respect God: whrnever I unite with the is as much in harmony with God himself as it is possible
will of God. I feel that I unite with God; so that practically for any being to be. The very name of God’s will fills me
and religiously, nlthongh I am aware that a difference can with joy.--Yadame Guyon.

PR.\TER.-IIe that is much in prayer shall grow rich in of desire, that makes the most voyages to that land of spices
rrncc. He shall thrive and increase most that is busiest in and pearls, shall be sure to improve his stock most, and have
this. which is our traffic with Heaven, and fetches the most most of heaven upon earth.-8el.
precious commoditic5 thence. He that sets oftenest these ships

\-or,. 1-1 PITTSBURGH, PA., OCTOBER, 1884 No. 2

-____ __-___ -_

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

Every memhcr of the Church (whose names were “written they got regular wages, but instead of money and titles and
in heaven”) in thr early times was a preacher. We know respect, they got stripes, imprisonments, and revili?gs, being
this not only bccnuse it is recorded that they “went every accounted the filth and offscourings of the world-driven from
where preaching the Word” (Acts 8 :4), but because we their homes, “they that were scattered abroad, went every
know that no one thrn or now led of the Spirit of Christ where preaching the Word.” (Acts 8 :4.)
could help being a prcnchrr of the glad tidings. If the anoint- Ah, yes! with such exhibitions of self-sacrifice and devotion
ing of the spirit Ird Jesus to preach; if the same spirit in on the part of the preachers, could we doubt that their mes-
Paul Icd him to fcarl ‘%oe is unto me if I preach not the sage was really “glad tidings of great joy which shall be to
gospel” ( 1 Cor. 9: 161, lrherevcr the same mind or spirit of all people,” and that the humblest of them felt, as Paul ex-
Christ may he, it \\ill have the same general effect, it will pressed it, that he was “not ASHAMEDof the gospel of Christ.”
make a preacher of the one controlled by it as surely as it did What wonder, too, that under such a message by such preach-
of thoie referred to :lbove. Of the Church whose names are ers-“the number of the disciples was multiplied?” (Acts 6: 1.)
written in henvt+-el-cry member is a preacher. Are you And now, when under the providence of God TIIE CHURCII
onr? Are >-on faithful to your ministry? is getting back to the “good tidings” as originally held by
The Grrck word rc,ntlered “preach” in the above citations THE CHUBCHin the days of the Apostles, and getting rid of the
i< crroggcliroo.-“To tell good news or tidings.“-Young. One traditions of men under which it had been buried for cen-
definition of onr English word preach is. “To give earnest turies by contending sects and factions, we find that the real
ar1vir.r on moral or religious grounds.“-Webster. From this, “glad tidings” has today the same effect that it had in early
it will hr vrn that to confine the use of the word preach times upon all imbued with its spirit of truth. It is now, as
to a public diinonrsc, as it usually is, is an error, begotten then, impossible for anyone to receive the glad tidings and
no doubt of the custom of having a special class do all the the spirit of it, without becoming a preacher of it, even
c~~pollntlin:: of the glad tidings, while others feel themselves though by so doing such meet with the same onnosition as did
rtilct,rd f&m it. - their- bre”thren in -early times with the same -ilad tidings of
‘11~~secret iq this: The “glad tidings of great joy” which the rortzsom for all and consequent resurrection hope for all.
al\vayy- did nntl always will kindle a flame of holy fire, which Some inquire, Where are our Bishops, Apostles and preach-
muit find vttnt through tongue or pen, and to restrain which ers? We reply that Jesus is still recognized as the great
woulrl tj(j “woe unto mc if I prearh not”-has been so handled Bishop (1 Pet. 2:25). And we have under-shepherds or over-
by Snt:Ln and hi\ ahle assistant, “Babylon the Great,” that the seers of the flock today as Timothy and others were in the
“PIad” clemrnl hni t)cBcnobscured, and the whole turned into early Church. We still have the words and teachings of the
“t’nd ticlinps” r!f Fre:lt evil to ninety-nine in every hundred of genuine Apostles-James, John, Peter, Paul, et al.. and. iuda-
the r:lre. - ing from fetters received there are not less than t&o th&n~d
It i; prc~atl~. to the credit of the Church, that many have preachers and evangelists, who, being “scattered abroad, go
Ir+t intcrc-t in the promulgation of the bad news. It makes every where preaching the Word,” and referring those who
,:vidcnt, too. another thing, viz. : that the bad slews, crllltd “have an ear to hear,” to the words of Jesus, Apostles and
;l,-Jei. now preached by those who are paid good salaries for Prophets.
50 rloinyr, nlu.\t 1~ a very different story from that which Beloved fellow-preachers, ministers (dispensers) of the
‘:icry rnc:rnl,~ of the early Church preached for nothing. Nay, grace of God which is through Jesus Christ our Lord, let
18-l) 16701
OCTOBER,1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

us make full proof of our ministry, that we may not be reading matter for gratuitous circulation on these precious
ashamed before the Great Bishop, when piving an account of subjects, to all who will use discretion in circulating it.
our stewardship. The more we ikarn of >he =glad tidings of During the four years of the Society’s existence nearly two
ereat iov.” the more we will feel with Paul that we would hundred million (200,000,000) pages of tract matter has been
6e in &&ess and woe, if you could not tell the joyful mes- circulated, and the experience thus obtained is that greater
sage: the more you will feel as Peter and John expressed it: results proportioned to the outlay, are derived from the use of
“we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and s~eci&y preparesl numbers of the TOWER (the last number
heard.” (Acts 4: 19, 20, and 5:29, 40, 41.) was on6 df these) than by any other form ‘of tract. Hence,
Your zeal in the spread of this good news is very preri- efforts are at present mainlv aimed in that direction. and
ous to us and we are sure also, that it is so to our Chief thousands of papers in Engliih and Swedish are printed and
Shepherd. Probably one-half of all the letters received in- sent forth continually. We mention this that you may know
dicate that by one means or another the writers are preach- that you have a supply to &raw from so long as the Master
ing daily. The majority find their greatest success in preach- shall supply the funds. Order as many “sample copies for
ing, to be by means of a wise circulation of special numbers distribution” as you think you can use to advantage in preach-
of the TOWER, with special articles marked, and accompanied ing the “glad tidings of great joy to all people.”
by “(t WOVG?& sea;son”-among those who seem to be “the
meek,” and to have “an ear to hear.” Though you may have a bountiful supply, use it not waste-
We repeat what some do not seem to have fully under- fully; but as wise stewards seek to use each paper or pamphlet
stood heretofore, viz.: that “ZION’s WATCH TOWER TBACT SO- according to the value of its message in your appreciation,
CIETY,” (whose funds are volumtaq donations only) provides and as men who shall render an account to a Master.

EXTRACTS FROM INTERESTING LETTERS

Uilford. Corn.. Sept. 3d. 1884. St. LOlLiS, Luo.
MR. C. T. RUSSELL :-Dear &:--I am ‘mo;e than pleased D~aa BROTHER:-I am no longer young, but have a strong
with the CODV of “Food for Thinking Christians” which vou desire to do something in the Lord’s vinevard. If I were of
so kindly s&t me. I wish all my -friends here could rkad middle age, if compet&t, with the preseni light, I would de-
this excellent little book. Think I could dispose of half-a- vote probably most, if not all, my time to making known the
dozen copies to very good advantage if you could spare them. glad tidings. I believe, after due reflection. that manv vears
I should also like for myself other reading matter, such as is ago I consecrated myself to God, but not’understan&g it,
referred to in the book alreadv sent. Have never seen the could not realize it as now. I have made a nreat deal of
way so clearly presented, and &all look for further light. money, but have not so much of it now; it ha: mostly van-
As you advertise these little works to be sent free, may I ished. I never was a worldly man, but a hard worker, much
not ask. is there not some wavw in which friends mavw assist devoted to mv profession, which is now secondarv. I mav
in this good work? have some mea& to dispbse of for the cnuqe of “truth, bu”t
Respectfully yours, cannot see clearlv how it should be done. I think if vour
[DEAR BROTHER: As you will see by this number we have Tract Society had a charter, donations and bequests miglit be
a Tract Fund, to which “any who may-desire are welcome to made with more freedom.
eive. The spirit of vour letter-desiring and seek&o a wav Sectarian preaching here is so insinid that I can have
tb give is ak’in to thit of the Lord and & one indica6on tha”t no patience to’ hear ic All seem to be- busy worshiping the
you partake of the spirit of those for whom the Lord pre- eod of this age-the devil-in some form or other. Pram the
pared the present feast. As the Master sought the sheep and ?,ord of the Harvest that he will send more reapers. Plenae
ransomed them unasked, so those who partake of his Spirit are make some suggestions, if you can, and may God bless you
ever on the lookout for opportunities to do and bear.-En.1 in your labor of love. Dr.

LEGAL INCORPORATION
ZION’S WATCH TOWER TRACT SOCIETY, though it has without endangering penury and leaving themselves a burden
already done a great work, and in the hand of GGd has been on their friends, which they could not see to be the Lord’s
a power in Imbllshlng the truth. the influence of which is being will; yet they are desirous that in some way they might be
felt alrend>: on both”sides of the Atlantic, has never yet hadU able to put the Lord’s money (consecrated to Him) into His
legal incorpoi ation. Nor was such incorporation considered work. This naturally suggested the idea that there might be
necessary by its friends, it having already all the powers nec- many others similarly situated and with similar ideas. S11c11
essary for the present work and similar to that of nine-tenths moneys or other property donated by “Will” to the Societv it
of other small societies. might be unable to receive or dispose of, without a charter:
But a new phase of the question has arisen. It seems tol- From all these considerations it was deemed best to apply
erably certain -that some of the saints will be in the flesh. for a charter; and this has been done. We expect that it will
during a great Dart at least of the “time of trouble.” and if be granted without delav. and in that event evou will learn
”

so, tb&-e &II be need of printed matter, tracts, etc., ‘as much more concerning the matter in our next issue.
then, perhaps, as now, and possibly will be more heeded, for
when the judgments of the Lord are “in the earth the in- It was out of the clouds that the deluge came, yet it was
habitants &f tse world will learn righteousness.” (Isa. 26: 9.) upon it that the bow set! The cloud is a thing of darkness,
Should those at Dresent nrominentlv indentified with the work yet God chooses it for the place where he bends the arch of
not be the last I to be “changed,“” some interruption of the light! Such is the way of our God. He knows that we need
work might result; but this may be obviated by having a legal the rloud, and that a bright sky, without speck or zhndow.
standing, granted bv a State Charter. would not suit us in our passage to the kingdom. Tll~l?f~7r~,
Ano&& matter “also has been considered: Two or more he draws the cloud above us, not once in a lifctlnlc. but ln:ln\
who had alreadv contributed to the funds of the Societv. SUB- times. But lest the gloom. should appall us, he ‘braids tlie
gested that as age was coming on and opportunities for ‘earn’- clouds with sunshine: nav. mnkrs it the obiect ~hicll ~lc:lnls
ing a living decreasing they could not now give more largely to our eye with the -veq: fairest huca of h&rrn.--H. ‘50,~7,..

WANTED, AT A BARGAIN
The curse with its thorns and thistles, causing labor, weari- It is not surprising then. that we find tliiq 011~ of the 1uo5,t
ness, and sweat of face, for the earning of daily bread, has difficult weeds to eradicate when we hare become prmc~t--
tended to produce selfishness. In the endeavor to obtain the children of the King of kings. How grc:lt is the inclinntian
necessities and comforts of this life it seems almost a necessity even of these to still permit this nrcd and to cnt of its fruit.
that we shall endeavor to get as much as possible in exchange Would that we all could reali7r nlorc fully how unbecoming lt
for as little as possible, or in other words, to drive close bar- is in the Royal family. Oh that each of us dny by da)- n~ny
gains. become more remarkable in this respect before the n-olld.
While selfishness is a weed always detestable, it is so com- The worst form of evil, hon.evcr, is that which nlaniie~fs
mon and so deep-seated in the fallen race, that it is to be found itself toward God-his tl uth-his favors. _\ccu*t nlutY1 tn
in every garden. Often it flourishes most in the heart of the getting as much as possible for the amount paid. or p:l.v~n;: as
rich and comfortably circumstanced, where its greedy fruit is llttle as possible for the thing secured in daily lift. the s.lule
not needed, whereas it could be measurably excused in the disposition often mnnifcsts itself in dc:lling ~1111 God for thta
miserably poor. “Crown of Life,” for “Glory, Ilonor am1 Inlmol tallty.”
[6711
(2-3) ZION’S WATCH TOWER

God covenants with those justified by faith in the redemp- Thus many desire a crown of life and glory, if they can get
tion which is in Christ Jesus, that if they consecrate and sac- it cheap. Some would like to know the truth, if they could
rifice themselves wholly to his service, He will give them at know it without the exnenditure of much time and trouble
once, “exceeding great and precious promises,” and in the fu- in searching for it as hzd treasures. Such would hold it very
ture the realities. tenaciously, if it brought with it earthly honor and respect,
Our little all is indeed a meagre pittance. How little re- and cost no loss of friends, influence, etc. But for such bar-
mains of our three-score-years-and-ten ! how little of mental gains you seek in vain. If seeking truth, and through it the
vigor! how little of physical strength! how little money and crown, you must come prepared to pay for them.
influence! and vet, that little all, however great or insignificant In view of all the circumstances, is not selfishness while de-
it is to you, is “all God required. in exchange for his g&at ift. testable always, especially so in relation to our covenant re-
We confess that it is a ureat baroai*such excee I!!-
ma lationship to God? Let us rather be very ambitious to in-
riches and glory for a price so mean as”to be not worthy t; crease our capacity that we may thereby increase our service
be compared with it, and yet how many, like Ananias and and sacrifice, saying with the Apostle: I count all things
Sapphira are found endeavoring to keep back part of the but refuse, for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus
price. my Lord; for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and
According to our covenant we should do our best to use in do count them but dung, that Z may win Christ., . . . . that I
Jehovah’s service “all our mind, all our soul and all our might know him and [experience] the power of HIS RESUB-
strength,” which of course, includes the products of these-all RECTION [to spiritual being], and the fellowship of his suf-
our influence, all our money and all our time as well. Yet ferings, being made conformable unto his death: If by any
how apt are.we in action 6 say to the Lord, “I know it is means, I might attain unto THE [emphatic article in Greek
cheap, but can you not take a little less? I think you will. --&he special or chief-resurrection of the dead.” [literal-
I know your love and think you would not deny me the prize, out from among the dead.] (Phil. 3 :8-l 1.) “They that are with
even though I keep back part, of the price.” Him are Called and Chosen and FAITHFUL.” (Rev. 17:14.)

THOUGHTS
BY ALEX. D. M’BAE.
Thoughts are a powerful factor, either for good or evil, in truly contented mind, for we are “tempted when drawn away
our influence upon our fellow beings. Figuratively, we should of our own sinful desire and enticed.”
do our thinking as much as possible in the sunshine. Thoughts Discontent can even have hard thoughts of the devil if he
which are not regarded as wicked or filthy mav set have a is not on hand with some first-class temptation when wanted.
most pernicious &ec’ect. Discontented thoughts &jr make as It may be asked, Can we control our thoughts and keep
much miserv for him who harbors them. and for his neighbors. them in the proper channel 9 Apropos to this, my mother used
as thoughts” which are viciously impure. I have nevervknown to tell me, “You cannot hinder the birds from flying around
it to be established beyond doubt that discontent had actually your head, but, you need not allow them to build nests in your
soured the milk in the cellar, but I have seen a meat many hair.”
things in the house decidedly turned by it. Co&&t on thi Paul, who kept his body under by the aid of a pure and
other hand. sweetens and brightens all within its reach. The vigorous mind, and by the spirit of grace, speaks of bringing
cheerful look, the happy, winiing smile, the loving word and every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. We
the kindly deed may all be traced to contented thoughts. If can keep our minds pure and free by constantly putting pure,
we have occasion to speak or write to a friend or brother we clean food for reflection into them. As a sack filled with
should never begin and enumerate our trials, necessities and wheat has little room for chaff or other refuse, so the mind
woes, or bewail our fate, merely for the sake of doing so; bet- that, is stored with good things cannot harbor evil thoughts.
ter to throw a wet blanket on him at once. Let us rather re- The Lord has surrounded us with good things in which we
count God’s mercies and help our friends to do likewise. Then may labor, of which we may read and converse, and about
shall we and they be blest, with happiness and contentment which we may exercise our thoughts.
and glory redound, through our thanksgivings, to the Giver of Therefore; “whatsoever things are true, honest, just, pure,
all good. lovely and of good report: if there be any virtue, and if there
That. terrible spiritual ogre, Temptatioq seldom attacks a be any praise, think on these things.“-Dazu?b of Norning.

HOW HE CAME TO SEE IT

Some vears aeo a dear friend of mine in Yorkshire wrote not produce such a list; however, waited patiently to see what
to me, siying hue heard I had taken hold of some strange he would further say.
views regarding the doom of the finally impenitent, and he About, a fortnight after I received a letter inviting me
would like to know what these were. I replied that. it was very urgently to go and see my friend, for he found himself in
quite true that my mind had been changed on this sad sub- dreadful difficulty regarding the task he had thus undertaken.
ject. I no longer believed in the eternity of future torment, Being able to arrange it soon.r I naid the reauested
-0 I I visit: and
but held that the wicked would be cut off everlastingly after never shall I forget-his look when he said that, to his amare-
thn Judmnent of the Great D&v.+ I said that this light that, men& he could not find a single verse in all the Book which
had broken out, upon me fro& God’s Word had mide our declared man to be immortal: on the ccnstrary, in his search
Father in Heaven dearer to me than ever, and the Bible a many turned up which taught the mortal nature of mankind.
clearer book than it had been before. I%e further -said that the few passages which at. all gave
My friend immediately answered that he was satisfied with plausibility to the ordinary view of future punishment ap-
the Orthodox belief upon the matter, and he was sure I ought peared now most unsatisfactory to him: and a little further
to be. In order to win me back to the old path he would like conversation revealed to me the fact that he already had re-
to have a debate with me by correspondence. And as I much ceived the truth of Immortality in Christ, alone.
annreciated his candour. kindness and Biblical knowledge, I
ai’once asked him to hegin the discussion by proving &brn HOW HAD HE COME TO SEE IT?
the Bible the natural immortalitv of man. This would be the Simply by searching the Scripture on the subject, “These,”
right course, I said, as he was going to take the side of Or- said Jesus, “testify of Me.” My friend had gone to them with
thodoxy, and that affirmed that all men live forever. the theory that he had received from the instructors of his
In a day or so a note came, informing me that my proposal childhood, and had searched for it in vain. Throwing all pre-
was accepted; that there were many passages in God’s word judice then overboard he had sought for Truth, and was re-
which stated man was an immortal being, and that he would warded. He was by the truth made free from former error.
prepare a list of them for me. I knew full well that he could G. P. MACKAY.

LIVING FOB OTmmS.-It is not difficult for a man to TWISTEDTOaErHEa.-Our word strength comes from a word
give his life up through the chamber of death. But to give signifying twisted together. “The Lord is the strength of my
this life while you hold it, yes, and to use it so that it is a life .” “God is the strength of my soul.” Then my life is twist-
perpetual benefaction all through-that is hard, and that ed iogether with the Lord. God and my soul are as two
is the special Christian duty. To live in such a way that strands twisted together. One may have no strength at all,
from you shall proceed an influence that comforts, cheers, but while twisted together with one that is infinite, the weak-
instructs and alleviates the troubles and sufferings of life- est shall not fail. Then with what confidence we may say,
this is the true following of the Lord Jesu$ Christ.--BeZ. “The Lord is the strength of my salvation.”
l The Millennial Day.-ED.

C6721
 LIFE ONLY THROUGH CHRIST
Pray, what is your life ? It is even a vapor, And purity only is yours through the Saviour,
Appearing a moment, then passing away No merit nor work of your own can make clean,
Full soon it is gone, like the light of the taper, The stains of your wayward and evil behavior
Or melts like the stars at approach of the day. Are still on the robe of self-righteousness seen.

Yes, such is your life; and no promise is given If hope, then, of living forever you cherish,
That sin blighted man shall forever endure; Acknowledge at once it is hope in the Lord,
For ever since he from the Garden was driven, Apart from the Saviour each sinner muat perish:
Endurance of days is reserved for the pure. The life is in Him, as revealed in IIiv Word.

Since present existence is truthfully likened

To vanishing vapor, or grey morning mist,
‘Tis clear to conclude that the men who are quickened
To life everlasting-obtain it in Christ.
G. I’. XI.

MORTAL AND IMMORTAL

These words are usually given a very uncertain meaning. promised that, if obedient, he should have a prize, we are
Wrong ideas relative to their meaning produce erroneous views bound to leave all such speculations out of the question. He
of subjects with which they stand connected in general and in was promised a continuation of the blessings then enjoyed SO
Scripture usage. long as obedient, and threatened with destruction if diso-
The definition of MORTAL is, a state or condition of being bedient.
liable to death. Not a condition of death, but a condition It is this false idea of mortal that leads people in general
in which death is a wossibilitu. to conclude that all beings who do not die are immortal. Under
The definition of I~OBTAL is, a state or condition not lia- this head are classed Jehovah, Jesus, angels, and all who are
ble to death. Not merelv a condition of freedom from death, saved of mankind. We claim, however, that this is an error;
but a condition in whi& death is an impossibility. that the great mass of mankmd, those saved from the fall, as
The common, but erroneous, idea, of MBBTAL is, a state well as the angels of heaven, will always be mortal; that
or condition in which death is unavoidable. they will, though in a condition of perfection and bliss, always
The common definition of IMMORTAL is more nearly cor- be of that mortal nature which could suffer the wages
rect. of sin-death-if thev should commit sin. The security of
The word immortal signifies not mortal; hence the very their existence will be conditioned as it was with Adam, upon
construction of the words indicates their true definition. obedience to the all-wise God, for whose justice, love, wisdom
It is because of the prevalence of a wrong idea of the and power, to cause all things to work for good to those who
meaning of the word mortal, that so many are conhIred \\hen love and serve him, will have been fully demonstrated by his
trying to determine whether Adam was mortal or immortal dealings with sin at the present time.
before the transgression. Nowhere in Scripture is it stated that angels are immortal,
They reason that if he was immortal God would not have nor that mankind restored will be immortal. While, on the
said, “In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely contrary, it is a quality which is ascribed only to the DIVINE
die”; for if immortal it would be impossible even for him to NATURE-to Jehovah, to Jesus in his present highly exalted
die. To this we assent; it is a logical conclusion. condition, and to the Church, the “little flock,” the “Lamb’s
On the other hand. say thev. If he was mortal [their idea wife” and “joint-heir,” when glorified with him. And not only
of mortal-a state in which &ath was unau&cZuble] where- is this true of the English word “immorta2” and its corres-
in could consist the threat or nenaltv of the statement. “Thou ponding word “incorruptible,” but it is equally true of the
shalt surely die “7 . since if mo;tal (&cording to their ‘idea of original Greek terms which these translate. Let every student
the term) he could not have avoided death anyhow. prove this to himself by using his “Young’s Analytical Con-
The difficulty, it will be wrceived. is in the false meaning Eordance.”
given to the wokl mortal. Ahply the ‘correct definition and aii Not only have we the foregoing evidence that angels are
is clear and slain. Adam was mortal Ci. e., In a condition in not immortal. but we have Droof that thev are mortal, in
which death was a possibdity.] He had-life in full and perfect the fact that’ the chief of their number is”to be destroyed.
measure, yet not inherent life. His was a life sustained by (Heb. 2:14.) The fact that he can be destroyed proves that
“every tree of the garden” save the one tree forbidden, and they, as a class, are MORTAL.
so long as he continued in obedience to, and in harmony with !i!hus considered, we see that when all sin and misery and
his Maker, his life was securethe sustaining elements would evil are blotted out, immortal and mortal beings will live in
not be denied. Thus seen, Adam had life, and death was en- joy and happiness and love. The first class possessing a na-
tirely avoidable, yet he was in such a condition that death was ture incanable of death-having life in itself. (Jno. 5: 20).
possible-he was mortal. the latter& having a nature susciptible of death :‘ yet, because
The question arises then, If Adam was a mortal and on of perfection of-being and knowiedge of the evil-and smful-
trial, was he on trial for immortality? The general answer ness of sin nivinn no cause for death, they being approved of
would be, Yes. We answer, No. His trial was to see whether God’s law &all te everlastingly supplied *with ihose- elements
he was worthy or unworthy of life. Since it was nowhere necessary to susutain them in perfection, and shall never die.

INFIDELITY VERSUS ORTHODOXY

We make the following extracts from Mr. Robert Ingersoll’s lecture delivered in Boston, Mass., Jlay 11th. 18%.
“Ladies and Gentlemen : It is inconceivable that any man supernatural. There was a time when the prophet foretold the
who believes in the Christian religion should attack it, for future, but the philosopher has taken his place. The euper-
if he believed in it, he would believe he puts in peril the natural is dying from this world, and let me tell you that
eternity of his soul. But it is conceivable that, in a country everything is liable to death exccpti?zg demonstrated truth.
where the orthodox religion is a reward for hypocrisy, thou- The allopath who first bled his patient near unto ,leath and
sands pretend to believe who do not. The man says to him- then tried to bring him back to life is a thing of the past, but
self: ‘If I tell my honest thoughts, I can have no office-I he died hard, and for years you could hare sren in some place
can never be President.’ He says: If ‘I attack this religion, or other some ancient members of his profession looking for a
I cannot keep my wife and children.’ I tell them, ‘Don’t dress patient whom he could bleed. There is to-day the same war-
your children in rags for the sake of expressing your thoughts. fare between orthodoxy and science as existed betwc,cu the
Do not try to improve your fellow men, they are not worth it. old stage-coach and the railroad. But the conch had to give
Go to church and say “Amen” at the proper time if you hap- way, and the religion of our fathers, with its clue1 hell ntd
pen to be awake, and I will do the attacking for you.’ tyrant God, must die-it is not for this day .lnd pmcmtion.
“There was a time when the astrologer said he could read They tell me it dies hard because it is of supc~narurnl
the stars, but now he has eone and the astronomer has taken origin. Let me whisper in the ear of the I’rntestnnt, C‘atholi-
his place. There was a time when the soothsayer held a place, cism dies hard, because the people are ignorant and the
but he has been superseded by the priest and the parson. They priests are cunning. Let me whisper in the ear of the Cnthol-
are the fruit of the same tree, born of fear and ignorance. ic, Protestantism dies hard because of the q:lnle thing. Let
Now the preacher must go and give place to the teacher. They me whisper to both that Judaism died hard although thou-
die hard, but what else can they do? We have done with the sands of years older, and Mohammedunism dies bard l,ecause
I-43 16731 (3)
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH,
Pa.

intellqcnce is a plant of slow gro\\ tli. Let me w&par to you that God had looked out for his poor little withered life and
all, infidelity is increasing every day. let five hundred go down to the depths. What did he suppose the
“We are past midnight. If the ministers would tell their other five hundred thought about a special providence? Why,
honest thoughts, you would find that they do not believe much only the other night in Washington the lightning struck the
more than I do, or know much more of the subject. 110 you Young Men’s Christian Association building, and in the same
know why the clergy dislike me? Thev know that I know that block with my office, too. Special providence? Nonsense!
the\- knoiv that thei do not know. They have been telling me “The Congregational churches believe in the resurrection
for years that I am fighting a man of straw; th& the church of the body. How they can, I do not know. My God shall be
does not believe what I have been saying of them, and that my reason. It is the only torch nature has given me in the
I have been misled in reading their creeds: that I have been sad night called life. I will go where that light leads me and
misled by taking the Bible as% appears to be. I used to hope take the consequences, not only in this world, but in all others,
that I was mistaken, and that they believed what they said. no matter where.
A little while ?go the Congregational churches appointed a “I also find that this creed says: ‘We believe that Jesus
high joint comnnssion, composed of professors. They came to- Christ came to establish among men the kingdom of God, the
gether and recommended a creed to the churches. These were reign of truth, and love of righteousness and peace.’ That may
men of advanced thought, the ablest of the time, who pre- have been his object, but what did he doP What has been the
tended to know the sciences, and to have read Darwin and result? All the cunning instruments of slaughter have been
Huxley. I read their creed, and I found I was right. I was invented by Christian nations. Born of ‘universal forgive-
not fighting a man of straw. The orthodox churches still be- ness’ is the Krupp gun throwing a ball of two thousand
lieve it is necessary for vou to believe something you do not pounds weight. How do you account for the thirty yeixs’
untie&and. They say: ‘<We believe in one God, one Father war in Europe; the war in Holland, the persecution of Scot-
Almighty, maker of heaven and of earth, and of all things land and Ireland by England? At the bottom of nearly all is
risible and invisible.’ But nobody knows if that is true, or superstition and heartlessness born of this religion. They
whether there is a God. They say he is maker of everything, tell us in the creed that they believe in the ultimate preva-
but nobody knows it. What was he doing before he started? lence of the kingdom of Christ over the earth. Is it so? YOU
\Vhat does an infinite personality mean? only convert a few thousand of the fifty millions born each
“In the orthodox creed there 1s but one living and true God, year. Are you going to do this by your missionaries? YCU
everlastinrr. without bodv. Darts or Dassions. but I defv anv never converted an intelligent Chinaman or Hindoo. You can-
man to k&v it, and no “Aa; can w&e a better description <f not do it unless you go there and board them. When the
nothinn. This God walked in the garden and talked face to money stops, your Christianity ceases.
face with Moses, and he loves the &ildr& of men who believe “They say when a man dies nothing remains but to damn
his book and damns to eternal flame of fire the man who ex- him if he is not a Christian. Congregationalism makes hell as
presses his honest thought. There may be such a God for all hot as ever. If their doctrine is true, Benjamin Franklin is in
I know, for this is the only planet I was ever on. There may hell. He wanted to break chains here; he is a convict there.
be another world, but if the ministers know no more of it Thomas Jefferson has gone to his reward, as he did not bee-
than this, it is hardly worth mentioning. lieve in the doctrine. Nearly all the revolutionary heroes
“The nest thing in this wonderful creed is the providence of had not been born but once, and they are there. Old Ethan
God, which is over all events of the world. Here is an infinite Allen adds to the joys of hell. The soldiers of 1812 went to
and’ wise God, the governor of this world ; but what evidence hell long ago, and nearly all the soldiers of our civil war are
have we that this world is presided over by this infinitely wise in God’s prison, compared to which Andersonville was a para-
God ? How do you account for Russia and Siberia ? That dise. ‘Great tidings of joy.’ Every idiot goes to heaven,
means all the human heart can suffer. How do you account and the less brain you have the better your chance. Such men
for all the horrors of slavery? How do you account for the as Humboldt are in prison forever. They are damned long
holy martyrs? Why should God allow men to be burned for . They are crying for water. Any civilized man ought to
believing in him? What is such a God worth! Why does trdamned who subscribes another dollar for such preaching.
he allow all these ills in the world? He who allows it, hav- “They say I take away consolation when I try to put out
ing the power to prevent it, is criminal. Who is responsible? the fire of hell. If all believed really in ‘orthodoxy’ this world
He who makes man as he pleases-God. A man told me a would be a vast madhouse.
little while ago that there was a special providence in his “Priests collect toll from fear and ignorance, and know
life. He was going to sail on a ship, but he was delayed, and nothing of an hereafter. I leave the dead under the feeling
he did not go, and that ship went down, and he really thought of hope, and I HOPE FOB JOY FOR THE WHOLE HUYAN RACE.”

TRUTH VERSUS ORTHODOXY AND INFIDELITY

6uch sentiments as the above are the natural conclusions of the latter. Many a son goes out from a home whose inmates
many a truly noble soul whose faith in the religion of the Bible are professing Christians, but whose unbridled tempers,
has been de&roved bv unfaithful Drofessors of relieion who avarice, selfishness, pride and unholy ambitions, have proven
are first and 1o;dest”in their den&ciations of the Gpen and to him’ the falsity- df their claims ahd confirmed him in un-
avowed unbeliever. It is surprising, indeed, that there is not belief. And who can iustlv condemn such if they choose what
more infidelity than there is; but we apprehend that there is seems to them a more excellent way? If they-take as their
a great deal more infidelity in fact, than finds open expres- guiding star the most noble power which they see-their
sion. reason-and follow where it leads and take the consequences?
But the time is rapidly approaching when all those who are We honor the man who is true to his convictions and to
1eal1.v infidel fill plainly declare it; and there are thousands the highest principles of action of which he is aware. We
of them within the nominal church. as well as out of it. The believe, with Mr. Ingersoll, that the so-called orthodox re-
very same thing that keeps many who have seen much of ligion of to-day has outlived its usefulness; that orthodox
the truth of God’s Word and the errors of so-called ortho- Christianity is a sick man. Yes, it is dying, but it dies hard.
doxy from openly declaring their convictions, also keeps many Why 7 “Because the people are ignorant and the priests cun-
who have not seen the truth, but who do see the errors and in- ning.”
consistencies of orthodoxy, from openly declaring their in- We also believe, with Mr. Ingersoll_, that “We are past
fidelity ; and that is the popularity and worldly influence of midnight.“-the midnight of sunerstitlon. imorance. want
the nominal church-an influence which verv# lareelvv I affects and w:e.’ But we do no% arrive at-our conciusi%ns in the same
both business and social interests. way, nor from such uncertain data. He sees human reason
Many dogmas are advanced as truth and enforced upon struggling for freedom from oppression, and hopes, against a
a credulous people on the asserted peril of eternal torment great barrier of doubt and uncertainty, for the good time
which have not the slightest foundation either in the Scrip- comine when right and reason shall prevail and brim? about a
tures or in our God-given reason. And not only so, but there better order of “things than we see it present. -
are thousands of those who profess to be guided in their daily If the barriers which unfaithful professing Christians have
life and conversation by the high principles of Christianity, themselves erected could be entirely removed, reasonable and
lthile beyond a mere profession and appearance, there is unbiased minds might see with us the satisfactory evidence
nothing of it, and the unrenewed dispositions of a depraved contained in the Scriptures that it is a positive and un-
nature have nearly full sway. mistakable fact that “&e are past midnight” and that a better
Those who claim to be the living epistles of God are known day is beginning to dawn.
and read of men before they think of reading the written Mer. Ingersoll, with thousands like him, stands away on the
epistle, and if the aorld becomes disgusted and indignant with outskirts of God’s great plan, too remote to see or hear the
the former, it IS not likely that they will esteem or consult great Commander, and even doubting that there is a command-
16741
OCTOBER, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (4)

er; yet they note the direction in which the current of events its Author in the permission of such lack of harmony.
is tending; and though they see not the Almighty Hand that And just so we f&d it. The general testimony of nature
moulds and shapes them, they realize that the tendency is is that God is good, benevolent, loving, wise, and powerful;
toward a better state of things; that is a better time for fu- yet there are some things which seem strangely out of har-
ture generations, but beyond a faint hope and desire, they monv.* And as we turn to the written word we find that te>tl-
know not that the also shall have part in it. mony repeated with emphasis and proved beyond the shadow
But, as sons o P God, we have been privileged to lcltow not of a doubt. It also shows that those things which seem out
onb that he is. but that he is working all things according to of harmonv with the nrincinles of benevolence, goodness, etc.,
the-counseb of &is own will. And whili Mr. Ing%soll may cake are so because of sin;- thatsthe natural consequences of .sm-
his reason which he believes to be the onlv torch which na- suffering and death-are for a time to be permltted, that men
ture has given him to light him through this dark night called may learn a needed lesson from bitter experience and that when
life, (and a blessed God-given torch it is) ; and while by its th& lesson is fully learned by the wh&le human family, all
glimmering light he can leave his dead under the feeling of evil will be forever banished and those who have suffered in
hope ; and while his benevolence can reach out beyond his gaining the experience shall be restored to life to reap the
own kindred and “HoDe for future iov for the whole human benefit of it.
race,” thank God the &ble reveals t6e”blessed fact that in due Yes. it stands to reason that creatures of three-score-years-
time this hone will be realized in the dorious restitution of all and-ten cannot understand the facts of the present, ai they
thinp; for Fiat time the whole creatfbn is groaning and wait- stand linked with the nlan of God which began thousands of
ing in ignorance. Yet not without hope do they groan and years before we had an’ existence., and reaches on into the dis-
wait, who heed the light of reason’s torch. (Rom. 8 : 22, 19. ) tant future, unless he comes with a teachable spirit to the
But let us say to all such, If you can surmount the bar- study of the written revelation. And it also stands to reaSon
riers in your way and throw away your prejudices, the faith- that we should expect such a revelation from a God who is
ful following of that very torch (God-given) will lead you wise and good.
straight to the Word of God, who says: But th%ugh Mr. Ingersoll lays much stress upon reason,
and nromises to follow where it leads. we think that some-
“OOME, LET US REASON TOQETEER.” time: he forgets his torch and blindli stumbles into many
Let us do this. Here is a book which claims to be a revela- foolish and absurd errors. For instance, he says. “Sobod)
tion of God’s will and purposes concerning man. How do we knows whether there is a God.” But how does hc kno\v that
know its claim is true? nobody knows? Perhaps he does not know, but why should
First, we would say that if it is true, we should expect it he so confidently assume that others know no more? or why
to bear the evidence of its truthfulness within itself, since, should he be in ignorance?
if it is the Word of God, in the very nature of things there Reason never showed effects without competent causes.
could be nothing higher to bear witness to it. Outside evidences 11ere chance was never known to produce anything but di+
mav and do corroborate its truth. but on its own internal evi- order and confusion, but we have spread out before us con-
dence it must stand or fall ; and ‘we should bear in mind that tinually, worlds and systems of worlds, moving with perfect
nothing can be properly considered evidence which does not and exact precision according to fixed laws which admit of
satisfy our reason. That is not faith, but mere credulity and no variatioh or mishap. TKe elements of nature that sur-
super&ition, which accepts as truth things contrary to all round us are beautifully adapted to human needs and human
reason. Such a faith meets neither the reward or approval happiness, and with unerring finger every element in nature
of God. nomts to the ereat cause of all things. W h o can think ~CUSOH-
The Word of God was given to us through human agency, haly even of -his own body, so w&derfully made, and con-
those acents beine under the snecial direction of God. That clude there is no God? Yes, nature’s book alone, gives evi-
we mi& be sure &at it was not a’ scheme devised by men or un- dence conclusive that there is a God, powerful, wise, and good:
der the direction of man. it was written by different men scat- and those who discard its testimony are without escuse, and
tered over a period of two thousand years. Each writer sup- should forever keep silent about “reason.”
plies an imp&ant part of the great- chain of truth, and ail The taking of life which God commanded under the ,Jen-
nre in Derfect harmonv with each other. The book complete ish economy, as we now understand it, wns a part of that
tells the one story-th;! purpose of God concerning men. borne great topical Obiect Lesson which in due time will be mnde
of the writers tell it in tvnes. some in svmbols. and some in clear &-the wo& as it is now beino made clear to the saint-.
prophetic utterances whi% c&mot be inderstbod until the God had a right to do this. Man’s?ife was forfeited anrhow.
&e&s prophesied actually transpire. And, standing where and in a short time these must have perished in some wag:
we do todav. when bv far the treater Dart of Drophecv has if not by the sword, by wasting disease. If the purpose of
passed into”history, ihe plan of-God becomes &a& tlian it God for the future good of mankind could be better served
ever appeared before. and the object lesson-made clearer by taking them away with
While we agree with Mr. Ingersoll in some things, we can- the sword, pestilence, etc., than by natural decay, who 1~1s :I
not agree with him when he says that the soothsayer of the right to object? Even so he took away the Sodomites a4 hc
uast has been sunerseded bv the Driest and the narson. and “saw good.” (Ezek. 16: 50.) In all these thinas God had n
the prophets of {he past by* the- tihilosophers of the present. wise pourpose, ’and in his own time he will mxke that 1”11-
No, we think the soothsayer has been superseded by the philos- pose manifest to all, as he even now makes it manifest to 1115
opher who follows the torch of reason, while the prophet, saints.
divinely inspired to foretell the future, has been superseded by Again, Mr. InfersoIl seems to think the idea of an ?r!filpr/~,
the historian recording the fulfillments. And it is the blessed God a verv absurd one. and savs: “Thev sav he is maker
privilege of our day t”o read them both by the combined light of everythihg, but nobody knows 6. What”was “he doing bcforr
of reason and revelation. he started? What does an infinite personality mcnn ?”
The New Testament writers, while adding their important To this question we ans\\er, All we know about it i; \\h,lt
links to the great chain of truth, also instruct us as to how the Bible n&l reason teach. The Bible S:I~S that G~xI i- from
by compariso: of scripture with scripture, history with proph- everlastinrr to everlastinrr (Ps. 00: 2) : thnt he is inln:ort:\l
ecv. tvnes with their antitvnes. and reason with revelation. we --self-exi&nt-not depeGde& on any &her being, condition<.
rn& &me to such an un&st&ding of the truth as was‘ not or circumstances ; and though our finite mind cannot ?I :l+p
possible in earlier ages. Surely no other book can claim and comprehend the infinite, our reason says. It mu-t Ilc ;n
such authorship; and if reason in other things teaches us that CausrS must always precede effects, and hark of all tllc 1n:1n1-
for every effeci there must have been an ani%cedent cause, we mntc CRIISPS, such AS nature’s lawn, etc., there ?nltst bc :,n
must conclude that the wonderful harmonv of this wonderful INTLLLIGEST FIRST CAUSE. Our reason unaided hv rcvrl I-
book, written under such diverse circums&nces, and by writ- tion would name that intelligent first cause “a nf rght!/ OUC”-
ers so remote from each other in time, must have been under a God. and even more, the AZl-p~~ight?l.
the special direction of some master mind whose length of If God had a beginning, then he must have been produrt4
days is more than three score years and ten. by the operation of some laws of nature that preceded 111111.
The Bible claims that its Author is also the Author of and those laws would also indicate an intelligent desiplrr, and
nature; that by his power all things were brought into exist- that desibmer would be God the first cause of all. .Snd so lt
ence. and that bv the same Dower all things are sustained in we follow reason alone, we cannot escape the conclusion not
existence. If this be true ‘we should ex;ect the testimony only that there is a God, but al-o that he is infinite.
of nature and the testimony of revelation to agree perfectly And here he seems to hnve forgotten his other conclusion
when both are understood. If one reveals an author of benev- that his God should be 711s rcnson: for again he says. “thr
olence and goodness, we should expect t,he other to do the universe is God.” This srrms n little mls&l. and we ‘fear the
same; and if some things in nature seem to be out of harmony gentleman would hnve some difficultr in hnrmonizinr tlw
with nature’s general design, we should expect the clearer itatements, W e prefer that he should stick to his torch a;d by-
light of revelntion to vindicate the wisdom and power of and-by we wi!l hope for hcttrr ronrlusinns
[6751
 ZION’S WATCH TOW’ER PITTSBURGH, PA.

As to \\hat he was doing before he began his work of crea- (and in many instances their practices) represent it-a very
tion. we presume that since he has not told us, it is none of bad book, a teacher of superstition. falsehood. and hvuocrisv;
o77r business. And if in future ages he ever gratifies our de- but his p’rincipal effort is against the errors oi so-Cal&d Ortdol
sire to know more of him, we will reverently hear. As to the doxy, which the Bible itself shows to be stubble which the wind
nrthodns teaching that God is without body, parts, or pas- shall drive away; and he is only helping to raise the breeze
sions. which n-e admit is a fair description of nothing. we that shall do it; but the blessed old book shall not be moved.
hare s7mplp to say that in this as in’ many other tGngs, Whatever of truth men may have, whether they are in or out
they nttempt to he wiqe above what is written. When we of so-called churches, will” stand; but error “must go down
conic to th6 cm1 of what is written. it is better to stop and whether it be irmorantlv or wilfullv cherished. The selfish
~7.v. We do not know. than to ind77lge in speculation. idea of God’s pr&idence” which pray:, “God bless me and my
Rut further. If. as reason teaches, there is a God, we wife, my son John and his wife; us four, and no more,” is
qho77ltl concl77de even without a written revelation that his bound to go down, together with that blasphemous falsehood
way* are higher than o77r ways. and his thoughts than our against the character Gf God--eternal tormeht-when the wide
tholc!lltS (l%l. X.9). In other words, we have every rea- range of God’s lovine urovidence shall be more clearlv manifest.
~017 to hnw faith in the suprnnturnl. To presume that the ‘The absurd idea”oj a resurrection of a body with the same
mightv God who created all things is limited and confined in identical atoms of matter that had been wasted by disease,
his power merely by those laws of nature which our human eaten by worms, wild beasts or cannibals, burnt by fire, or
77nderstnnding can see and comprehend is absurd in the ex- which had entered into vegetable or animal life, must go down
f reme. before a reasonable studv of the subiect of the resurrection as
.I< to God’s providence. which 3Ir. lngersoll thinks is such presented in the Scrip&es. And 6od’s purpose in the per-
n ritlic77ln77; thing. we would say that in it we have unbound- mission of evil for a time. when made clear to all. as it has
d confitlencc. -4s it is represented hy Orthodoxy, however, it been made clear to us, wili amply vindicate the glorious char-
does nppear no less ridic771o77s than nrr. I’s illustration shows. acter of our God.
B77t lea\ 7ng Orthodoxy and taking the Scriptural standpoint, Of course men who are so mixed and uncertain in their
viewing the wonderfal plan of God spanning the ages past, views of God, and so ignorant of the character of his Word,
nnd reaching on thrn77gh the qgcs to come, we gain an idea however well informed they may be concerning other matters,
of 17iq Fatherly providence wh7ch comports with the highest and so blinded and deceived by misrepresentations of it, we
idea that reasnn can rive us of God. (See “Food for Think- cannot expect to comprehend the great scheme of redemption
ing Chri<tinnq.” and “The Chart of the -4ges.“) And while planned by Jehovah and wrought out in Christ. But we
Cod’s providence is th7is nvpr nil his works. for special rea- thank God that the mists are being rolled away-that chronol-
snnq (heretofore given ) the Gospel Church is now the special ogy and the march of foretold events, already prove, what
object. of his care. Mr. Ingersoll suppposes, that already “we nrc past m.idnight.”
“The \\hnle creation is his charge, Soon the Sun of Righteousness shall rise with healing in his
But saints are his pecnliar care.” wings, and the blind eyes shall be opened and the deaf ears
unstopped, and the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the wholr
Jlr. Ingersoll serms to think thnt the Orthodox Churches earth. But until then zL;e?with the lecturer. leave the groan-
make a great mictnkc when they claim that he is ing creation under the feeling of hope, KNOWING that a glorious
future awaits the whole human race in God’s due time. But
FIGHTING A MAN OF STRAW, this blessed hope finds no support save in the Wnrd of God
hut we think that is the principal thing he iq doing. He thinks which abundantly proves it to reasonable, nnprejudired mind4
he in fighting thr Bible. and s77pposes it to be as their creeds who will give it the necessary study.

RECONCILED AND SAVED

“lf whrn \\c \\erc enemies we were reconciled to God hv the death of His Son, much more being reconciled we shall be Saved 17~
his life.“-R.um . 5 -10
. .
The misundcr&nding and misrepresentation of the at-one- derstanding of their prudent men shall be hid” (ohscured).
ment. or reconciliation Jesus effected between God and man by (Isaiah 29: 14.) Paul says, “Through one man sin entered
his death on the rrnss. hare been fruitful sources of error and into the world (in whom all sinned) and through sin death :
repulsive ideas of God: these have made an orthodox hell pos- so also death passed upon all men.” (Rom. 5: l2-Diaglott.)
sible. instead of death. as the wages of Adam’s sin, and the Therefore, these men cannot be right and God’s word true:
blood of Jesus a ncre+v to satisfy the wrath of God, in- one or the other must be wrong. But the time has come
stead of a substitution of his life in death for the forfeited “when they [the people] will not endure sound doctrine: but
life of the world: thus orthodoxy says, after their own lusts [desires] . . . heap to themselves teach-
ers having itching ears, and they [teachers] shall turn away
“JCSIIS Christ, who stands between their ears runderstanding] from the truth and shall he turned
Angry heaven and puilty men, unto fables” (2 Tim. 4:3, 4)) and “denying the Lord that
Undertakrs to h71y our peace.” bought them shall bring upon themselves swift destruction”
Purl7 a representation of the “God (who) so loved the (2 Pet. 2:l).
world that he gave hiq only begotten Son,” is so abhorrent and Every law, human or divine, must have a penalty attached
revolting that it has had the effect of driving some to other ex- to its transgression, otherwise it is no law, lacking force; the
treme and eq77ally falsr theories: among whom we may cite law of God demanded as a penalty the life of the transgressor,
H. \Y. Beecher, who garc csprcssinn to his belief on this sub- and Adam through disobedience having incurred this, all his
ject in a sermon preached before the Cornell University, on posterity are heirs of death-life being forfeited. Therefore
.Junr let. p77hlished in the Ne7r Yorl< Herald of June 2d, viz: indeed as through one offence “sentence came on all men to
“(‘hri-t’s wnrk on earth nas not to restore a lost race-a fall- condemnation (condemning all to death) so also through one
on on+-but to carry forward and upward a sinful one. He did righteous act (of Jesus) sentence came on all men to justi-
not c77ffrr in mnn’s placr nor mend a broken lam and make it fication of life (justifying their living again) .” Rom. 5 : 18.-
hnnornhle. The ronrrptinn that Christ came into the world Diaglott. “If one died for all, then were all dead” (2 Cor. 5 :
to c71ffrr for Ginnrrs is mon\trous. He came to benefit a mis- 14). And “as in [through] Adam all die, even so (to the
prahlc rare hy making known the supreme idea of a God of same extent) in [through] Christ shall all be made alive”
lnvr ” (1 Cor. 15: 22).
If C’hrict’s work nn earth waq to carry forward and up- If therefore; through one man and one offence, sin and
ward a 9inf771 rnrc. instratl of to restore a fallen one. man death entered the world and passed upon all men there must have
InIl-t 11nvt~ I~~(~71:7t c7cnticm worst rather than better t6an he been a fall, and mankind is now in a fallen condition, and if
now ii. and thrrefolr therr ncvrr co77ld hare been a fall. But by one righteous act of the man Christ Jesus judgment, de-
how did he brcnme miserable and sinful? He could not have cision or sentence came. that all men should be iustified to
made him--calf so if hr nrvrr fell. Did God make him as he life, or justly entitled tb life, i. e., raised up froG the fall-
no\\ is. or norsc? If >lr. Beecher iq right. God cannot he resurrected-we ask what one act of Jesus could have ac-
otlIr,r than the author of :711 man’s <in and misery, and being complished this if not his death on the cross? The penalty.
thc7cirlrc. the author of sin. he wnuld 77ntlo~tbtedlv be evil as we have seen, was death, not torment; therefore, he need
him&clf. In thi? view of the rnse, ~17nt was “the supieme idea not give more, nor could he eive less; not onlv so, but it was
of the Cot1 of love.” and in what way did .Jrsur make it known? beca&e of his’“obedience unt’;, death-the deafh of the cross-
How >rr. Brecher can prcnc+h this God as a God of love, a that the Father hath highly exalted him.“-Phil. 2: 8.
preat and rood hrinrr. wr r;lnnrlt 77n&rstn77tl; b77t it is writ- There is, however, a marked distinction between the death
tr TI Tl~cb 1, iiclorn rlf 1111.1711isr mrn shall perish and the un- of *Jesus and that of other men, and tl7is distinctive feature is
[6761
OCTOBtR. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER
not in the mode of death, but in the degree of life possessed life of the world. If, however, he had been of the divine na-
by him. “In him was life” (John 1: 4) ; not a deathless life, ture as he now is, he could not have laid down his life, for
which could not die, but life everlasting, so that he would “Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath
not die, had he not laid down his life. All other men are in no more dominion over him” (Rom. 6: 9) ; and if he had been
bondage to corruption, and have no life in them by nature, a spiritual being under cover of flesh he could not have given
but he being a perfect and sinless man, was not liable to sin’s his life for man, because his real life would be spirit, and
penalty-death; therefore, he could say, “I lay down my life, therefore it would not be ae required an equivalent or sub-
. . . no man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself; stitute for man.
I have payer (right) to lay it down.” (John 10: 18). Pre- That he did exist, a spiritual being with the Father, and
viously the “Jews sought to take him to put him to death,” that all things were made by (through) him, and without him
but no man laid hands on him, for his hour was not yet come” was not anything made that was made (John 1: 3) is evident.
that he should be ,put to death “the just for the unjust, that but he left-gave up the glory he had with the Father and
he might bring us to God.” ( 1 Pet. 3: 18.) He commenced the “was made (became) flesh.” (John 1: 14.) Why should it
sacrifice of his life at baptism, but had it not been completed be any more incredible that Jesus’ nature was transformed
in death, as it was on the cross, when he cried, “It is finished,” from the spiritual to the human without retaining his former
all the rest would have been valueless, for “without shedding nature under cover than that the Church “shall put on
of blood is no remisqion.” And when he said, I lay down my life immortality” (1 Cor. 15: 54) and yet not retain the flesh and
he immediately added, “I have power to take it again.” Sure!g blood nature? for “flesh and blood cannot inherit the king-
he could not have meant he had power (right) to take again dom of God.” ( 1 Cor. 15 :50.)
the sacrifice of his life from baptism to the cross; this would Then, while we were yet “enemies, we were reconciled to
be withdrawing his consecration to the will of the Father. God by the death of his son.” (Rom. 5: 10.) Reconciliation
Besides, how could he do this? Nor did he mean that he would for the sins of the whole world was made (Heb. 2: 17 ) for
take amin the same condition of life-flesh and blood-to do “he died for all,” but all have not yet accepted the recon-
this w&ld be to undo the atoning sacrifice and take back our ciliation through faith that they may be “saved by his life.”
ransom price ; but, thank God, he gave his life-parted with it “In due time,” soon, we trust, the redemption and consequent
forever on the human plane and was made alive on the spirit recoaciliation. “shall be testified to all”-all shall “come to
plane. the knowledge of the truth” and to appreciate the precious re-
He was “put to death in the flesh” (1 Pet. 3: 18) not to demption : and when they do, may we not reasonably infer
pacify divine furs against sinners, nor to mend a broken law that nearly all will accept the glad tidings and come into
&d make it ho&able ; it did not .need this ; but he vindicated harmony with God ? We have good ground to hope that the
the iustice of the law and satisfied its claims uDon us bv g.iv- majority will be “saved by his life,” as all were “reconciled by
ing himself as our substitute, hesh for flesh-h\s life f& “the his death.” S. 0. BLIJNDES.

IS FAITH THE GIFT OF GOD?

“By grace are ye saved through faith;
and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should
boast.“-EPn . 2 ”-8 9 *
From this scripture it is generally presumed that faith is To have faith in a person is to have such a knowledge of
the rift of God, and that this is what the Anostle here meant his character. of his principles of action. and his controlline
to ilach. And so, we often hear of Christ’ians praying and motives, as tb warrait us*in believing that those principles
waiting and expecting God to increase their faith while they will always govern, and then to repose confidence in that
entirely ignore the means he has provided for its increase. knowledge.
As well might we fold our hands in idleness and expect food In order, then, to have faith in a mrson. it is necessary to
after praving, “Give us this day our daily bread.” become tho;oughly acquainted with him. The morr thordugh
We w’ish, therefore, to consider. first, whether this is the our acauaintance. the stronger will be our faith. if he is true.
true and logical inference to be drawn from the Apostle’s If we &ould “hake faith in” God,” it is also necessary to nc-
words ; and, secondly, what is faith and how obtained? quaint ourselves with his character as expressed in his two
It should be evident,, we think, that Paul is not here speak- harmonious books-Nature and Revelation.
ing directly of faith, but of salvation. He is affirming that The Apostle tells us that “without faith it is impossible to
salvation is the gift of God; that it is not received as the please God,,’ and it is equally impossible to hare faith mith-
reward of works, but that it is purely of God’s grace and out knowledge. It, therefore, becomes our duty to acquaint
favor; and that though it is not procured by works, it is re- ourselves with God. We should be constant students of his
ceived “through faith.” Yes, 8aZvation, is the gift of God, character. God has sufficientlv revealed his character to 11s
granted by his grace or favor, and grasped by us through to enable us to clearly discern”the governing principles in all
FAITH; for actual salvation is not yet-now “we are saved his actions. and. therefore. we mav snfelv and confidentlv trust
by hope.” This, we think, is the only logical inference which him, knowing from the e;idence &en, Got only in his present
can he drawn from these words and their context. and past dealings, but also in the statements of his word rela-
Let us then, inquire, What is faith, and how may it be tive to his future purposes, that the Judge of the whole world
obtained? To have faith in any statement or doctrine is to will do right.
have confidence in its truthfulness, and this should only be Faith is an act of our own, and the onlv way in which
based on clear evidence. To have faith in any thing without our faith can be strengthened by nnother, is by their sup-
evidence is foolishness; and it is equally foolish to be lacking plying the necessary evidence on which to base it. Hcnre. we
in faith when the evidence produced is clear and convincing. do not need to pray for its increase, but to pray and searc,h
To have faith in a statement or doctrine, then, it is only neces- for knowledge o&, of which it will grow. and’fo; grace to re-
sary to examine the evidence on which it claims to stand, and, sist Dride and nreiudice. that we mav rereire the truth into
if reasonable, accept the conclusion-have faith in it. hone& minds. a ” ’ MRS. C. T. R.

THE NINETY-FIRST PSALM

In God I have found a retreat, The wasting destruction at noon,
Where I can securely abide; No fearful foreboding can bring:
No refuge, nor rest so complete, With Jesus, my soul doth commune,
And here I intend to reside, His perfect salvation I sing.
I dread not the terror by night, A thousand may fall at my side.
No arrow can harm me by day; Ten thousand at my right hand:
His shadow has covered me quite, Above me His wings are spread wide.
My fears He has driven away. Beneath them in safety I stnnd.
The pestilence walking about, His truth is my buckler and shield:
When darkness has settled ahroad, His love He hnth set upon me;
Can never compel me to doubt His name in my heart He hath sealed;
The presence and pow’r of our Lord. E’en now His snlrntion I sec.
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation, for \\ II~>II hcb is trictl hc shall receive n cro\\n of life.”
C6771
 OPINIONS OF EMINENT THEOLOGIANS
TAKE YOUR CHOICE

APOSTLES AND PROPHETS. Paul-“Then shall I know,

!ven as also I am known.”
Toll~rnge. D. D.:- Paul-“By one man sin [l Cor. 13:12.)
“I would that I cortld break ntered into the word and Beecher, D. D.:- Jews-“Ye shall see Abra-
up your sadness and halt the !eath BY SIN, and so death “Shall we know each oth- lam, and Isaac, and Jacob,
long funeral procession of the lassed uvon all men.” er there?-1 suppose so; but lnd all the prophets in the
world’s grief hv some cheer- Rom. 5:li.) it is nowhere expressly stat- cingdom of God.” (Luke 13:
ing and >heerfr;l cielv of the “The last ENEMY that ed.” !8. )
last transition” (death). hall be DESTROYED is Peter and ull the prophets
“It is high time that the lenth.” (1 Cor. 15:26.) ;estify that there shall be
“KIII~ of Terrors” were “The sting of death is sin.” ‘times of restztution of ALL
thronn out of the Christian 1 Cor. 15:56.) PHINQS," which necessarily
vocnhulary. A vast multi- Jesus shall “destroy him includes the restoration of
tude of ueonle talk of death hat has the power of DEATH, Friend to friend and their
ns thou& it were the disaa- hat is the devil.” (Heh. 2: nutual recognition. (Acts
ter of disasters. instend of .4.) 3:21).
being to a good man the “THEN shall be brought to
blessing of blessings.” )ass the saying whrch is Beecher, D. D.:- Peter-“And he shall send
vritten: Death is swallowed “Christ’s work on earth Jesus Christ which before
Lp in VICTORY! 0 death, was not to RESTORE a lost was preached unto you,
vhere is thy sting? 0 race-a fallen one-but to whom the heaven must re-
rrave, where is thy victory?” carry forward and upward a :eive until the times of resti-
“Thanks be to God who sinful one. He did not suf- tution (RESTORATION) Of all
:iveth us the victory [over fer in man’s Dlace, nor mend ~11 things, which God hath
Death. the king of terrors, a broken la6 anh make it snoken bv the mouth of all
mr cnptor] through our honorable. T h e contention h’is holy” pfophets since the
hrd Jesus Christ.” (1 Cor. that Christ came into- the world began.”
15: 54, 5s, 57.) world to suffer for sinners Paul-“Christ died for ou1
Beccher. D. D.:- is monstrous. He came to sins according to the Scrip-
“Do we, when we die, re- Pcu&---“I would not have benefit a miserable race by tiwe5.” (1 Cor. 1.5:X)
main in a sleep till the gen- rou to be ignorant, brethren, making known the supreme "AS by ONE man’s disobe-
eral resurrection, or appear concerning them which are idea of the God of love.” dience many were made sin-
at once before the face of the (sleep, that ye sorrow not, ners, so by the obedience of
great Jehovah?-There is no Jren as others which have no DNE shall mnny be made
defiinite answer to these lope. For if we believe that rirrhteous.”
questions.” Tesus died and rose again. ?‘Bv the offence of ONE
?vcn so them also ghicd jud,&ent came upon nil to
sleep in Jesus will God bring condemnation, WC/~ so by the
!vith him.” (1 Thes. 4:13, righteousness OF ONE the
14. ) free gift came upon all men
“We [the Church here ad- unto justification of life.”
,lressedl shall not all sleep, (Rom. 5:18, 19.)
but we shall all be changed Peter-“Christ also hat11
. . and the dead [the sleep- once suffered for sins, the
prsl shall be raised.” (1 Cor. just for the unjust, that 11~
15:51. 52.) might bring US to God.” (1
Daniel-“Them that deep Pet. 3 : 18.)
in the dust of the enrth shall Isaiah (40:2) -“He
awake.” (12 :2.) (Christ) will magnify the
.leszds-“Our friend Laza- law and make it honorable.”
ru9 sleepeth; but I PO that -[i. e., Christ kept the law
T may rwnke him ‘but of in its minutest and in its
sleen. Then said his dis- widest sense, and proved it a
ciples. Lord, if he sleep he just and perfect law, which a
slIall do well. Howbeit Jesus perfect man could keep,
spake of his death. but they thereby proving the fault to
thought thnt he had spoken be in’ man and not in the
of taking rest in sleep. Then law.]
said Jesus plainly, Lazarus 1 John (4:9, lo)-“Z?t this
is daad.” (John 11:ll.) was manifested the love of
Rolomon-“There is n o God toward us. because that
work, nor device, nor knowl- God sent his only begotten
etlpe, nor wisdom. in the Son into the world that we
Prkve whither thod goest.” might live through him.
fEcc1. 9: 10.) Herein is love that he sent
.Zoh--“No& shall I sleep in his Son to be the propitia-
the dust, and thou shalt seek tion for our sins.”
me in the morning [of the
resurrectionl, but Z shall got Beecher, D. D.:- Paul (2 Tim. 3:16)-
be [being or existence having “The Bible is not an in. “All Scripture divinely ill-
crns~d in death ; nevertheless spired book. It is a history spired is indeed profitable
hc adds] Thou shalt call ant1 of inspiration. It tells what for DOCTRINE [theological
I will answer thee” (i. e. I is wrong in man himself instruction] . . . . that- the
will spring into being again. The theological Bible is fast man of God mav be thorouph-
at thy word.) (Job 7:21 and giving way to the Bible of ly furnished &to every good
14:15.) common sense, moral sense.” work.”

THE DAY OF ATONEMENT

hlondnv. Sept. 29th last, wns, according to the Heblew When God selected Israel to be his specially favored nation,
caIc*ndar, “the tenth day of the seventh month”-the day of through whom he would make types and illustrations of his
.itonrment for sin\. To’ the .Jew It ir, the most solemn day of gracious plans for the world and the Gospel Church, we find
the ycaar, and to all those who appreciate this feature of their that he so arranged all their ceremonies and laws as to il-
law, and see its significant import, the day and its ceremonies lustrate higher things, as a fulfillment is always higher than
are full of valuable lessons. a type.
[6781
OCTOSltR, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (61

Because the removal of sin, and its consequences, was in how the tvnical service was observed. And thank God, we,
God’s plan the most important thing to be done for man, looking af the type lighted up with the revelations and in-
therefore, those ceremonies which illustrated and typified it, structions of the New Testament. can see the real. the anti-
were the most solemn and momentous. More than any other typical Atonement Day, the antiltypical “sacrifices’ for sins,”
type, the work of the Day of Atonement showed the process and the anti-typical priests performing the sacrifice, and the
by which sin would be removed, and a consequent bZessi*ng people in distress under sin. And by faith looking into the
come unon man instead of the curse which will be removed, future, we can see the priestly garments of sacrifice changed
and as- a result the harmony and communion between God for robes of glory and beauty, and the coming forth of the
and man. lost at the threshold of Eden. will be restored. Great High Priest with every member of his body [church]
The poor Jew busied in making the’ type saw not the typ- complete and the great blessing and raising up of the world,
ical nature of the work he performed. He saw not that their the atonement sacrifice for whose sins will be fully complete
Priesthood represented the Little Flock of the Gospel age- with this Gospel age-this anti-typical Day of Atonement
the Royal Priesthood, whose Chief Priest is Christ Jesus, and in which not only Jesus [the bullock] dies for sin, but the
that thev as a neonle for whom the tvnical sacrifices making priesthood in general [the Lord’s goat] fill up, that which
satisfaction typkdy for their sins, w&e offered, represented is behind of the afflictions of Christ.
the world of mankind for whose sins Christ was set forth to In view of the fact that to suffer ~,~th Christ is not a
be a propitiatory covering. They saw only the type and mis- necessity but a privilege to which is attached the grand hopes
took it for the reality. of wearing with him the glorious garments of honor and do-
We cannot today step into their synagogues and see the minion, and of blessing fleshlv Israel and through them all the
ceremonies of the Day of Atonement performed, for nowhere families of the earth; “ Let ho man beguile you of your re-
in the world are they performed today as enjoined in their ward”! Let no man take thv crown; Faithfulness-“eren
law. True, they observe the day by strict self-denial, fast- unto death,” is the condition upon which our e&ceding great
ing, abstinence from all business and pleasure. (Afflicting and precious promises hang. We are in the closing hours of
their souls. Lev. 16:29.1 But since the law made the Tem- the great anti-typical Atonement Day, and we beseech you by
ple or Tabernacle part of the type, it follows as a necessity the mercy of God that you neither lose your hold upon your
that the Jew being without either cannot perform the type share in Jesus’ atonement sacrifice nor relax your effort to
as specified in the law, hence must not attempt any part of it. fulfill your covenant to sacrifice with him on behalf of others.
Looking back to Lev. 16, we find the detailed account of

TWO BAPTISMS
[This article was a reprint of that published in issue of February, 1883, which please see.]

BE STRONG
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.“-1 Cor. 16:1X
A babe could never engage in the active duties of mature As to whether we grow up into Christ, or become dwarfs
manhood. It must first develop far beyond the stage of in- and useless in his service, depends upon ourselves; for God
fancy. A babe is a bud of promise, and in due time it must who has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.
fulfill its oromises. else it will be iustlv desoised and dis- is able and willing to carry on the good work in us, and hc
honored, paid will never enjoy the privileges, the respect, and will do it if we follow his leading.
honor of manhood. In writing to the Hebrew Christians, the Apostle reprov-
So it is in the sniritual familv. A babe in Christ is a ingly savs to them, “We have manv thinas to sav. and
child of interest, a *bud of wonderful promise, beloved of havrd to be uttered, seeing ye are dull “of heaGing. Foi’when
God and of his maturer children., and tended with special for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one
loving care. Think what promises of future glory and teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles
grandeur center in a babe in Christ. In time, if he continues of God; and are such as have need of milk, and not of
to grow in grace, knowledge and love, he will be received strong meat. “-Heb. 5:11, 12.
into the everlasting kingdom, and will be engaged with Such a condition is a dangerous one, especially in this
Jesus Christ in the great work of restoring all things. You evil day when the sophistries and snares of the adversary arc
of maturer growth in Christ, neglect not therefor to feed more subtle than ever before. There are many deep truths
the babes with the sincere milk of the word: but not the of God’s plnn difficult to express; and inipos~il~l~~ to 1)~ untler-
strong meat until they are able to bear it. Neither offer to stood by those who have not a clear understanding of
them milk which is not pure; nor afterward, meat which is and implicit faith in the foundation principles of the doc-
not meat indeed, expecting them to discriminate between the trines of Christ.
true and the false before their senses have been sufficiently The first principles of the doctrine-Redemption through
exercised to discern clearly. We should not expect those the precious blood of Christ, and his remission of sins through
who have erown but little bevond the infant staee. to be able faith in his blood. is the onlv solid foundation on which our
to grapplg successfully with” all the arts and -wiles of the faith can rest; and until that foundation is firmly settled
adversary. Hence we should always be on the alert to find in our minds, it is impossible to go on unto perfection of
times and ways and means for helping a weaker or younger knowledge. But if we spend all our time examining the foun-
brother in Christ, and never by any means place mixtures of dation, we will never be able to rear a superstructure upon
error or other stumbling blocks in his way. it. It a man has laid the foundation for his house with
The privilege of building one another up in the faith, is care and with proper material, it is not necessary to dig it
not appreciated and improved among the children of God up and relay it over and over. With full confidence in the
as it should be, many excusing themselves on the ground of foundation, he should go on with his building.
inability. But in this none are altogether excusable. As In the science of divine revelation as in other sciences,
soon as we find the storehouse of truth we should begin in advanced truths cannot be received until other truths upon
earnest to feed on it that we may grow thereby. And aa which thev are based have first been received and undcr-
we grow and develop strength in the use of God’s appointed stood. Imagine a student making progress in mathematics
means, we should begin to use what strength we have for the who never learned the multinlication table. or who has no
benefit of others; and the result to our spiritual nature will faith in it, even after he ha; proved it true. Such a one
be precisely the same as a similar process would result to our could never make progress in mathematics; neither could the
human nature. Exercise gives an appetite for food, and builder make progress with his builclin~: who spends all hia
food gives strength for exercise. Thus the human being time examiniig the foundation, and who ner& arrives at
comes to the full stature of a man, and thus we grow as sufficient confidence in it. to build UDOI~ it. So a babe in
new creatures. Christ who never progresses beyond 1 first principles, or is
When God supplies the food so bountifullv and invites never settled upon them, can never reach maturity, and
us to feast at his table, and then clearly ‘indicates the moreover he is in great danger of having his faith overthrown:
manner in which he would have us use the strength thereby for a babe is unskillful in the word of righteousness, not
gained. we are not excusable in remaininv either babes or having his senses exercised to discern both good and evil
Children. We should be constantly growing in knowledge, Therefore Paul urges our leaving the elementary principles of
in erace. and in usefulness in the Master’s service. Recogniz- the doctrine of Christ-not in the sense of nbandoning thrm
ing” our’ privilege and duty in this matter, Paul exhorts but of allowing them to stand as tried and proved foundation
us saying. “Quit you like men, be strong.” stones-and going on unto perfection, going on to complete
[6791
(7) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSSUPGR, PA.
the building of our faith, not halting to tear up and lay force or constrained, nor in a blind or superstitious way,
again the foundation or to try a different one.-Heb. 6: 1. but as intelligent reasoning beings, ready to use our reason
Wherefore let us be no more children tossed to and so far as it will avail, and accepting in faith such state-
fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the ments of his Word as our reason cannot grasp, and refusing
sleight of men and cunning craftiness whereby they lie in all teaching of men contrary to that Word. Mss. C. T. R.
wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, growing up
into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.-
Eph. 4: 14, 15. “GET into the habit of looking for the silver lining of the
The promise of the Lord is sure to all who claim it“1 cloud, and when you have found it, continue to look at it,
will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou rather than the leaden grey in the middle. It will help you
shalt go; I will counsel thee; mine eye shall be upon thee.” over many hard places.”
But “be ye not as the horse, or as the mule [stubborn], which
have no understanding, whose mouth must be held in with “How many people there are who would like to be good
bit and bridle.” (Psa. 32 :8, 9) God would lead us, not by without taking trouble about it!”

TEMPTED, LIKE AS W E ARE

“And Jesus being full of the Holy Spirit,returned from Jordan, and was led of the Spirit into the wilderness, being forty days
tempted of the devil.” (Luke 4 : I.)
It would seem a reasonable assumption that Jesus, under and would be glad to assist you to such a place of influence
the guidance, leading, or inspiration of the Spirit lust re- and power among men as will enable you to establish BEFORMS
ceived, retired to the wilderness for studv and meditation rel- both moral and physical. And for such a work of reform
ative to the great work to which he had>ust consecrated him- among men you are eminently qualified, being a perfect man.
self. renresented in his bantism. Doubtless he there quietly You can thus accomplish for the world what no other man
searched the Scriptures, which after his anointing, would open can do, alleviating much of the present distress and suffering.
before him deeper truths than ever before seen. He then prob- Thus by moral reform you could lead the race gradually back
ablv saw more clearlv than ever before the nature of the work to the original perfection.
before him and this study opened the way for the presentation Now, Jesus, I have shown you the impracticability of your
of temntaiions to do the work in some other way- than that plan of dying to redeem men and the reasonableness of my
indicated in the Scriptures. plan, that you Zive and reform them and thus restore them,
In the account of Jesus’ temptation, we cannot presume that and I appeal to your judgment, is not my way the most reas-
the four points of temptation mentioned cover every trial to onable, most sure and most hopeful way to the object you have
which he was subiected during those forty days, but that of in view-man’s restoration ?
all the temptations of those days these are illustrations. Here was a strong temptation-all the uppealances fav-
A careful examination and comparison will show that the ored Satan’s theory; yet Jesus walked by faith and held fast
Master’s temptations are ours if followers in his footsteps. to God’s promise of resurrection of himself and of mankind
When the devil had showed Jesus the kingdoms of the world through him, and answered:
he said: “All this wer will I give thee, and the glory of “Get thee behind me, Satan. It is written, Thou shalt
them: for that is de r rvered unto me, and to whomsoever I will worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.”
I give it. If thou wilt worship me, all shall be thine.” This Thus Jesus escaped this temptation not by arguing with Satan
people generally regard as a sham temptation, and say that that God’s plan was as reasonable, but by simply relying on
he offered what he did not possess and could not give: that the fact that it was right to obey God and wrong to disobey
Jesus knew this, and hence ihe temptation was a mere -farce. under all circumstances.
But such reasoners are in error, because they hold that all As we look about us and seek to see which temptations
the kingdoms of the world and the glorv of them already be- common to the followers of Jesus most resemble this one en-
longed ‘io Christ and were already &led over by him. ‘mat dured by the Head of the Church, we are struck with the
such a view is erroneous is readily roven, not on1 by Scrip- similarity of the adversary’s methods now and the great suc-
tures, which speak of Satan as ‘%!ie prince of t&s world,” cess he meets with in assailing saints from this standpoint,
“the god of this world, ” “the ruler of this world,” etc., and viz,, temptation to turn aside from God’s appointed course
which speak of Christ’s kingdom as future, a kingdom to -self-sacrifice-and endeavor to begin the work of blessing
“come” when he shall “take to himself his great power and before the annointed time.
’ ” but the very facts of past and present history are It was tl% same temptation which beset the infant Church
~~f%ent to prove beyond a doubt that not a gracious God, during the first five centuries, and which finallv was success-
but a fiend, a devil, has been working in and ruling over the ful. The persecuted and weary Church was be*set by the ad-
nations. In no other way could we possibly appreciate the versary saying, Come, not so; I will show you a far better
character and history of nations written as it is in blood way than suffering, and tribulation, and persecution to ac-
and crime and injustice. Satan is now the prince and ruler complish your desires. Follow my wise counsel and ail these
of the nations, and gives the glory and honors of them to kingdoms of earth and the glory of them shall be thine. The
such persons as best suit his purposes. At the time in ques- offer was accepted, and Satan, faithful to his promise, exalted
tion Satan saw before him the perfect man Jesus, just anointed the nominal Church, [the few who resisted the temptation be-
and imbued with the Spirit power from on high, and whose ing considered heretics and outcasts,] which resulted in lacing
\\ork as a Redeemer and Saviour he nrobablv understood. over the world the Church of Rome as the head of bot Yl civil
But even recognizing Satan’s authority and power over and ecclesiastical government.
the nations, the force of the temptations upon Jesus might be When this handmaid of Satan became very vile and low,
overlooked unless we remember other circumstances in con- and her methods and shams very apparent, and as a conse-
nection with it. Some might ask, How would Jesus possibly quence a Reformation movement came about naturally, Satan,
be tempted to bow the kr%e and-worship Satan? We reply equal to the emergency, presented the same temptation to the
that the thoueht is not of adoration and prayer. but of “Reformers,” and again with success. His argument, success-
semice-to follow Satan’s directions-as though- Satan had ful upon Luther, Calvin and others, was: Your reform is a
said to Jesus: I remember you before you became a man, great and grand work, but now you must beware of fanaticism.
when you were my superior in rank; I know why you be- Get about your great work systematically, so that it will be
came lyoor, taking a human nature. But, Jesus, you-are labor- a success and abide and have a powerful influence in the world.
ing under a delusion. As your friend and well-wisher, let First, then, the IMPORTANT matter is to secure the support and
ng tell you that you can ne;er accomplish your object in the sympathy of the world-of its empires and its great and wise.
way proposed. You have come into the world to die for men, In deference to public opinion, you must have an organization
and thereby redeem them and restore them to perfection. But and a very sharply-defined creed, and you had best distinguish
vou never -can do this; you may give your life for them, but your church by some name; and since you are the orgagizers
it can never benefit them, for it would be impossible to re- and originators of your church, you surelv* have ~~- a right
a
to call
store beings once destroyed in death. Remember, too, that it what you please.
you lose your own life by the operation; for though God has Your Church must first of all recognize these governments
promised to raise you from death again, that, I assure you, of mine, and must call them Christian governments, no mat-
is an impossibility. Remember that no one who ever came ter how un-Christlike may be their rulers and laws. Thus
under the power of death ever escaped from it entirely. you must aid them in maintaining their hold upon the people,
Now, hear my advice: I, as well as yourself, have felt and they in turn will aid you, support you and protect you.
sorrow at the misery and trouble humanity is experiencing, Beware also that the long cherished traditions and theories
C6801
OCTonEn, 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER 17-X)

of the Roman Church settled by her ancient councils and system in Babylon, your bread and butter- intcrc-ts ~111 h*
firmly engraven by her upon the minds of the people be not advanced.
in any wise tampered with, else your entire power and influ- All pilgrims followinrr in the ;Ilaster’s foot5tcns. -1toui~i
ence with the people would go, and you would fail to make meet tl& -temptation as-he met it. \ IL., hy ia,ln’gl “lt I=
your Church the great one you so niuch desire. written, Man shall not live bv bread alone.”
”
I am not afr:lld
Thus again power, dominion and the glory and pleasure of starving, God has moxe wars and means for -u:ta1lllne
and ease of them, allured the Reformers and nipped iii the my lift, thnn food; if I am faithful to m v covenant 1 rrn
bud the Reformation which needed to be very thorough. Since atlord to trust the matter fullv to his uise*care.
then, various servants of God stirred by a zeal for truth, LZnothcr thought come5 11i”th these words-one rc,l,cr I:#I ly
have broken over some of the barriers ana again attempted a al)plicable to the sisters: Iii vour clailv lift iefr~rrnbrr tliirt
continuation of Reformation work, and invariably they have “bjan Sllilll rlot llvc bp brcni alone,“’ and, tllrlefulrs. f~,;,l
been met with the same temptation; by the same w’lly tempter ; all your cncrgies shoul;l not be spent in &ereZ~ grntifritl-
and in their day, or soon after, all reformation was swallowed th2 p”1ate. Undoubtedly, very much valuable time 15 ;!,I,=
up by the desire to please the world, sail smoothly, and to spent 1)~ tllc? 1\Jnltha’s :t l)alt of which, at least, ltllsllt t.r
be great and influential. profitably hl~c’ut after 31:11!‘h cxanil~lc~. :lttc~rltlirl~ to tlte l~~trr!-
But while this has been and is true of companies of men,
it is true also of individual Christians. To us ks individuals,
this same temntation is one of the most difficult to withstand.
It presents i&elf thus sometimes: It is useless for you to ii,k 1115 life in an attempt to aiis\\er n Imlkr. Satall tw,i
waste your time and influence advocating and helping to Jesus to the highest part of the trmple. (Probably, t t*,*
spread those unpopular doctrines, even though they be true. central part of the royal portico,* which was very hi~l1 :IV~I
Associate yourself with some large and influential organiza- over-loofed a deep ravine; bf it, Josephus sa! 5: “Thr’ pillar-
tion. and don’t be eccentric and Deculiar. Thus your influ- of that portico were a hundred cubits high. and the r~~lle~
ence among men will be greater, and more good will be ac- below four hundred deep.“) Here Satan stiggested that Je-u:
complished than by advocating the truth and associating your- should prove himself the Son of God, by leaping from thli
self with it. Alas! how many yield to this who should say to eminenre, Sfltan intimating that flirts he coultl at once piove
the tempter as Jesus did in “his similar temptation: It is his claims before devils and men, if he escaped injury.
written: Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God and him onl\ But Jesus answered, “It is said: ‘Thou shalt not try the
shalt thou serve. Nothing klse under ani consideration shall Lord thy God.“’ Such an act nould have been reckless pre-
claim my attention or attract my service; his will, his plan sumption and daring, and not the faith in God proper to all
and his truth must have my little ALL. who put their trust in Him; hence for Jesus to hare ylclclr~l
Sometimes the temptation is: W h y spend time and effort would have been sin.
in nreachinz that which is unpopular, yields small result9 i1-ith the followers of Jesus, not infrequently the dcsll e
and’ much Grsecution? Rather-lit me’engage in some other comes to make some show before the world, and thus to con-
service, such, for instance, as the TEMPERANCE CAUSE, to do vince the ungodly instead of by the Lord’s plan-simply the
men good at once by moral and legislative reform. W h y not preaching of “the Gospel to the MEEK.” It is this tentpfnflcln
seek by political agencies to relieve present troubles, rather which sometimes leads men to call upon God loutlly, to come
than be thought a fool for preaching and preparing men for clown in power and convert fifty sinners here this creuing-
a coming reign of Christ when all these evils shall be remedied convert every smner in this house, and such like petition;.
and all the race blessed? The temptation thus presented is Such prayers are an attempt to force God by prayer to inter-
often successful in removing from the ranks of the truth- fere and do by miraculous power what he has a1ranzcd shall
bearers many of those who were anointed to preach the glad be done by other means-by- preaching-teaching. ‘-
tidings. Others are tempted to think that they can serve It is worthy of notice that finding Jesus able to ~LIO~C
God’; cause and truth be& by spending their best knergies and Scripture, and to answer his preyious temptations, Satan
talents in acquiring wealth, to be spent in spreading the Gos- this time backs his temptation with a quotation from Pcllp-
pel. Deceitful snare! the getting of the wealth so enlists ture. Let this be a reminder to God’s children that the ad-
their best talents that they become dwarfed spiritually, and versary can use Scripture, and does use it often in the p~e~‘n-
the wealth never reaches the object originally purposed. Thus tation of error. The quotation of n few word5 of Sc~ir)tule
Satan is successful with this class. He says, Serve God and should not be considered suficient, but the context should I)r
bless mankind and spread the Gospel, but do it my way, you examined to see that it is properly appld. Truth mis,~ppl~r~l
will find it the most successful and most congenial way. But is error.
to heed is to reject God’s way and to fall into the snare of the The Scripture here quoted by Satan is pait of the XC t
devil, and be led his captive and hindered from gaining the Psalm. and at first nlance the aonlication seems collc,rt.
great prize. But in the light of thg present unfiidings of God’s- no~ti wl!
QOBfMAND TEAT THIS STONE BE MADE BREAD see that it applies not to the feet of the man Jesus, but to
Another temptation presented to Jesus was, that he should the members of the feet class, or last members which complete
use power just received at his baptism for his physical (per- “the body of Christ, which is the Church.”
sonal. human.) gratification by making a stone into bread. Throughout this Gospel age. the Church. the bodv of C’hrist.
To some it l& %ppeared that” there c&ld have been no sin has been-guarded by the alygels of God: “Air they not all
in so doing, and hence no temptation. For a man to use any ministering Spirits sent forth to minister for those who shall
or all his Dowers to satisfy hunger, would certainly under be heirs of salvation”? But it is in the present “Evil Day,”
ordinary c&umstances be “no sir?. But the circumstances speaking of which, Jesus said, “W h o shall be able to stand”?
were peculiar : Jesus had just consecrated himself as a mum, when thousands are falling at our side, that the botlv ui
and as a result of that consecration had special power con- Christ, now represented by the last members-“the E&t oi
ferred upon him in the anointing of the Holy Spirit. It was Him” needs to be sgecinllv helDed. It is. then. with rcicl-
this newly acquired power that Satan sought to have him ence to the protection of the class of saints now IiT-in?. ?h.st

use for fleshly gratification, whereas it was given for a totally it is written. “He shall nive his anzels charrem- o~cr~~ the<> to
‘1

different purpose. To have bartered or used it for purely keep thee: and ’ in their hands they shall bear tbce up. leqt ~1
selfish ends would have been misuse-sacrilege indeed. any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.”
How manv of Jesus’ followers have temptations Dlaced be- If then, we are the feet, what is the stone oyer which
fore them of” a similar character, viz. : Use your consecrated there is danger of stumblino? It is the chief corner ct:~uc rli
talents and powers, and your office as God’s children and rep- the true TEMPLE Jesus. Of-him it wns written. “He rhtiil bc
resentatives, in such a manner as to further your “bread for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of ofl’ence” to Ijoflr
and butter” interests. Are you a public ministe; and under- the houses of Israel.” W e remember that the fin st or trlJic.11
shepherd. p-seek the flocks with the golden fleece, and es- house-Israel after the flesh stumbled over that ‘*sl;lie of
pecially procure and maintain the goodwill of the bell-sheep stumblinrr,” in that thev did not recowize his vl’esenrp amwe
of the flock; and with all your service of God, be sure you them, a& rejected his” sacrifice as ihe basis of justificntiol;.
use your office so as to first of all secure a bountiful supply holdina instead to their ozoqz riahtcousness which in God’s
of earthly comforts. Many a public minister has yielded to , sight Gas as filthy rags. See Is;. 5:14; Rom. 9:32j- 1 I”&.
this temntation. and obtained the bread that Derisheth, while 2:6.
he starvkd spiritually. The very same stumbling-stone is 1”;ow in the close of tl’z
Are vou a nrivate servant and soldier in the Lord’s hosts. Gospel age causing many to stumble, which caused so m.lny
whose s&vice fs less public? You are not, therefore, exempd to stumble at the close of the Jewish age. viz.: an unwilling-
from this temptation. The Adversary will, in some manner, nrss to be saved from the Adnmic pcnnlty by the rp~fr~r/lytrr~n
present the thought that, by using your religious profession or prlrchnse accomplished hy JCSNK Today everywhere. this
in a certain channel-by associating with a popular church question of salvation by fnzth 1~ Oltr?st’s finished work is be-
C6611
(9) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

ing contested. Sumbers of influential ministers and rcliqious row of sarcasm, and the destructive plague of infidelity, shall
papers. under the guise of new light are endeavoring to RIIOW unsettle and overthrow the faith of thousands; yet in it all
that Jesus did not gi1.e himself a ransom (Greek--alltitutron, we are assured that all the truly consecrated, all the true,
AS EQIVALEST PRICE for all, but was our example only. covenant-keeping members of the body of Christ-THE FEET,
They talk about justr/icatron but know nothing of justification shall be kept by the power of God, through the ministration
through his blood. and are not really justified. Wherefore? of his messengers, and delivered. And, finally, of the whole
Because they seek it not by faith [in the ransom] but as it body it is written: “Because he has set his love upon me,
~erc by works of the law-their own works of righteousness. therefore I will deliver him: I will set him on high [exalt to
Tlrc!l st~cj~blc at the stumbling-stone. But whosoever be- glory] because he hath known my name, I will deliver him
licr clh on III,H shall never be put to shame (stumble). and honor him, with long life [everlasting] I will satisfy
The context shows (Ps. Ql:3-5) that there will be a great him and show him my salvation.”
falling away from the truth, the pestilence of error, the ar-

HARVEST WORK M ISUNDERSTOOD

.\ brother \\litcs among other things: “Are you quite in the coming kingdom. But in October, 1581, we understand
-IIW that the cvidcnreq warrant us in believing that the first that the “acceptable year of the Len-d” closed, and that the
se\cn vpars of the harreit was the limit of time during nhich “call” to sacrifice and its promised reward is no longer au-
the ov>rcomers were separated and Elorified? Is this implied thorized.
111 “FOOD.” page llQ7” - Not that sinners may not still turn from sin to righteous-
Dear Brother : We answer this portion of your letter ness and come into full reconciliation with God, for ths is the
throuph the TOWER in hope of thus -benefiting &hers who very work of the Millennial age just dawning. But their call
may hare the same queries. is to obedience, and faith in the ransom with its reward of
Tour understanding of the teaching of “FOOD” is in the continued, everlasting life-as human beings, but not to SQCVX-
rmin c-01iect. but not so when you understand it to teach fice and FILLING UP of the afflictions of Christ, which will
that the saints 11oultl be separated and changed to spiritual be filled up by the Church which is His Body, alrendy selected.
bring. during tkp first seven. years of the harvest. (“Food” *Again, while 1881 marked an important point in the har-
\,;I’: not published until the close of those seven years.) vest work, it has not completed the work, for much of the
The thought we wish to convey is, that the gathering, or wheat already sown and ripening has yet to be reaped,
hcparnting of wheat from tares, is part of the harvest work threshed, garnered, etc. Since October, 1881, we understand
nntl may be nccompllshcd early in the harvest before the “fire” that two distinct classes of work arc m progress: One aith
01 judgment of that time come upon “tares,” etc. When the the world, leading them to Faith healings, etc., etc., engaged
11pe wheat is garnered or brought under the special care and in by many; and the work of perfecting of the saints, as-
labor of the Master. it requires some threshing, winnowing, sisting those who have already consecrated, to realize their
etc.. to fully prepare it for his service. obligation more fully and thus leading them out of Babylon
To our undcrstantling, the seven years which ended in and bondage and darkness into the glorious light, liberty and
Oct. 1881, with the close of the Jewish sacred year, marked enjoyment of their birth-right as heirs of God and joint heir3
off the limit during which the harvest work and that of SOW- w&h Jesus Christ their Lord-if so be that they suffer with
~nc of seed for the Gospel harvest, progressed together. In him that they may be glorified to.gether. (Rom. 8 :17.)
other words, while the harvest work was commencing and in All branches of the Lord’s service are grand, honorable and
progress, the “call,” (Matt. 20: 16: 2 Pet. 1: 10,) to the “Di- blessed, but to those who appreciate the plan, and who see
vine nature” through opportunity to sacrifice, continued to go that the fullness of blessing to the world will ~ollalo the
forth; and up to that time any believer in the ransom who completion of the Church and its exaltation to power, the
presented himself a sacrifice to God was “acoepta~l~,” aid force of the Apostle’s words, “especially to the household of
reckoned a memher of “the body of Christ,” and a Jomt heir faith” will be apparent.

CHRISTIAN CHARACTER A GROWTH

It matters not if you cannot tell just when you became a of vision, and firmness of foot, and beauty of prospect, c*o;ne
Christian. If we so\; a handful of wheat in our garden, we only to those who have struggled up the heights-to the
could not tell. though we watched ever so narrowly, the exact heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Conversion may be the work
moment when it germinated. But when we see waving grain of a moment, but a saint is not made in an hour. Character.
in the autumn we know it did germinate, and that is all we Christian character, is not an act, but a process-not a
care for. The young disciple should not expect too much sudden creation, but a development. It grows and beal*
light at once. It will grow brighter with every Christian fruit like a tree, and like a tree it requires patient care and
duty he performs. The Christian life is a sort of mountain unwearied cultivation.-b’el.
path ; and the higher one climbs, the clearer the atmos- “WE cannot keep darling sins and work out salvation. We
phere and the sooner he will see the morning sun. TO the ad- cannot harbor impure thoughts and then repose on the bosom
venturous traveler who has ascended to the summit of Mont of the All-pure. We cannot gratify our lust and attain to
Blanc, the sun rises earlier and sets later, and the night is holy living. We cannot roll in the mire and then enter into
therefore shorter than to the peasant who lives down in the the company of those who walk with him in white because
valley at the base. So it is in the Christian life. Clearness they are worthy.”

ADDED BECAUSE OF TRANSGRESSIONS

Pleabe g,rlve an exposition of Gal. 3: 19: “Wherefore then as to be faultless before it, and thus worthy of its blessing--
serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till life everlasting.
the seed should come to whom the promise was made.” What God foreseeing the impossibility of man’s ever bringing
I want to know is-What law was-added, what was it added himself to a position of worthiness of life, had provided a
to. and on account of what transgression was it added? way of his relief in “the Lamb slain from before the founda-
The context shows that the laltreferred to is the law given tion of the world”-“ the Lamb of God that taketh away the
to Israel at Sinai. (Compare verse 12 with Lev. 18:5, Ezek. sin of the world” -and this, God’s plan, was referred to in
20.11 and Rom. 10:5.) It was added to the Abrabamic cov- his covenant with Abraham. God, foreknowing his own plans
enant under which they had been placed four hundred and that he would in due time justify the heathen., made known
twenty years previously. (See verse 17.) before-hand the glad tidings to Abraham, saying: “In thy
As originally created, man was in God’s image and had seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.”
hii law written on his heart-to appreciate right and to (10 Thus we see that, under the conditions of this covenant,
right were natural and easy to the first perfect man, until sin Israel and all other men had promise of a blessing. But be-
blighted, blurred and, to a great extent, effaced the law and cause of inherited sin, not only Israel was unfit to be the
likeness of God. Adam having passed his trial and, being “seed” that should BLESS, but all the members of the Adamic
found unworthy of life, was condemned to death, and all his race were unfit.
posterity was involved with him. Since all his children have But while God knew of their unfitness, it was not so ap-
inherited an imperfect organism, both morally and physically, parent to the fallen race, and God undertook to prove to
it follows that it would be useless for them to hope that if Israel and, through their experience, to prove to all the world
thrar. in their prr’ent imperfect rendition, were placed on trial l [See Volume III, SCRIPTURESTUDIES, for later light on this point 1
under God’s law, they would be able, so to obey that law
I6821
OCTOBER,1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (8)

that man was unable to recover himself, or to give a ransom. by nature, are as condemned and fallen as the Jew?
for himself or his fellow, (Psa. 49:7 ), that thus all might By birth, by nature, we were children of wrath and con-
recognize in Jesus and the ransom price he gave for all, the demnation and disapproval, even as the Jew and others, but
only hope of blessing, and that. there is no other name under all who are of that seed have their sins “covered”-“washed
heaven given among men whereby we must, be saved away, ” “blotted out,” by the precious szn-offerzng presented
(“blessed”) than the name of Jesus. on their behalf-“bv faith in his blood.” u ho boupht us with
So, then, the law of Sinai was added to the promise to his own precious biobd. Their sins were imput& to Jesus,
Abraham because of and to convine men of, their sinful con- and he died as the unjust for them; his righteousness tm-
dition, and. thus point, them forward in expectation of the real puted to all who believe in him and accept of his sacrifice.
Seed which should be perfect and able to keep the law and constitutes “a propitiatory covelmg” for ill those transvrei:
be approved of it as perfect-Jesus. sions of God’s law resulting from Adamic sin and weak&s.
Ii- may be asked- in this connection, Are not, the saints so that, the righteousness gf the law is fuZfiZZedin us who
of the Gospel age as well as Jesus counted to be of this “seed”? walk not after the flesh but, after the spirit.
And if so,.in v&at sense can they be approved of the law who,

VOL. VI PITTSBURGH, PA., NOVEMBER, 1884 so. 3

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

Many of the household of faith looking out can see the the conflict. The kings and rulers of earth have YO long
storm coming upon the world--the “time of trouble such as felt themselves to be superior to their fellow men, that they
never was since -there was a nation, even to that same time.” find it, difficult to believe that God “hath made of one blood
(Dan. 12: 1.) Thev can see the various brigades preparing for all nations of men.” (Acts 17 :26.)
“the battle df the great day of God Almighxy.” ?h&e are the Did not “BABYLON THE GREAT” ucknowledae their riuht
Socialistic “Regulars,” and to their army is being added daily to rule the people? Did not the Popes in crowding their in-
“Volunteers” from among the honest, well meaning mechanics, cestors, declare that they acted as God’s representatives, and
and laborers, of every kind, called together by various cir- that really God had crowned them? Did they not declare
cumstances and with hopes of maintaining present advan- that their reign was “by the grace of God”-a mark of God’s
tages, or bettering their condition. favor to the people? Have not all the DAUGHTERS of “Babylon
On the other hand as opposed to this organization, are the Great,” (all denominations of so-called Protestantism)
the established governments, who seek to perpetuate their endorsed this policy of the “Mother of Harlots and abomi-
honors, titles, revenues, etc., by maintaining control over the nations?” Do not all religious people recognize as “\Vise”
people; and to these and their armies of paid soldiery de- according to the course of-this wor’id, endo&e and support
pendent upon them, are being added volunteers also: The the same theory? Why then should great ones give up the
rich of this world see that their interests are closely linked privileges which they esteem far more than life ? Rather they
with those of present governments to which they must look will reassert and exert their power, and drive back the “com-
for the protection of their interests. mon people”; if necessary, restraining them yet more, bv
The members of the true Church (whose names are writ- restrictinn nresent liberties.
ten m heaven) imbued with the spirit of justice--the Spirit Sure]; ih the conflict they will have the support of Baby-
of Christ-can behold both of these gathering armies, see the lon-mother and daughters, for not only are they committed
wrongs of each, and the rights of each, and can pity and sym- to the support of the kings of the earth whom they have
pathize with both. They can sympathize with the poorer declared to be of God’s appointment, but they are bound by
classes; those who have little, and have never had much, of closest ties of common interest to mutually support each
this world’s goods, and who under the clearer light of in- other. Are not the nominal churches of Europe snpported
creasing knowledge on every subject, are beginning to be- directly by the kingdoms of Europe?
lieve that all men were created free and equal, and to inquire The great and rich men of all countries are naturallv led
why there is so unequal a division of the honors, power, and to join this same side in the battle. Their wealth. boih in
wealth, of the world as at present exists. They see that money and lands, has been accumulated by methods ‘approved
some men ow7t tens of thousands and hundreds of thousands both by the governments and the nominal churches, whom
of acres of land, which, (notably in Europe) under the Land- they in turn support with it, and from whom they espeet
lord system, 1s rented out to the masses for as much as they both moral and material support and protection now. They
are able to pay ; and they inquire whether if the earth is a have, perhaps, inherited their lands and the income from them
gift ot the Creator to all men, some have a real right to so for many generations, and while they have no ill-will to the
much more than they use, while others have n&e; and tenants they have come to consider them as semi-slaves who be-
whether the land should not, remain as free as God’s other long to the land. If they are manufacturers they can trnth-
common gifts, air and water. fully reason that they run risks in business and have the trou-
They see that something is wrong and that the present ble and anxiety of its management, whit+ should entitle them
arrangement is not, entirely just and equitable. The study to a greater proportion of the profits than the laborer who
of their rights and the rights of others, lead them to the in- uses his muscle only and is free from responsibilitv. For thrrc
quiry : How came our Landlord’s right to ten thousand reasons the rich ~111 be on this side of the battle.
acres while WQ have none ? The answer is that, it was hand- But the true Church stands srparate from both these
ed down from father to son for several generations; and armies-sympathizes with the feelings of both, but lollls
looking into the pages of history he finds that the present neither. But she has an interest, nevertheiess, in their’con-
landlord’s great-great-great-grand-father took it by force- flict, and instructed out of the \\‘ord of the Heavenlv I<III~
or stole it-from his great-great-grand-father. 18 it any she realizes what, few others do. that this conflict ;. ..Tlyi
wonder that he expects a restitution of some part of it, 9 As battle of the great day of God Almighty.” and that “the
surely as the earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof- mighty man shall \\eep there bitterly.” (Zepl1. 1:14 ) It
as surely as he gave it to the people in general, so surely will be a day of wratll-“The great day of his wrath.” He
when he whose right the dominion is, shall take his great will overthrow the throne of kmgtloms. (Hag. 2 :2Z.i It 1s
power and reign, there shall be Times of RESTITUTION of all the day in which the delusions with which earth’s rich men.
things, spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets since and chief captains, or kings, and the mlphtv men of the nonil-
the world began. (Acts 3:19-21.) nal churches who ha\ e decrivrtl thrmrrlres ‘in their OWII fa\-or.
But they know not what steps to take to obtain rights, will all br swept away, and trne I ights, full llbertv (to do
privileges, and comforts. which they believe are God-given. right) and progress nped no longer be fought for’ in<‘11 br
They see little hope of their condition bettering-rather, they inch, but ~111 be film1.y and forever eatabll~hcd br eartll’l;
fear that as mechanical inventions increase, the result will new King, who at this‘timr. takes possession of tl;c domln-
be merely to make the rich richer, which with the increased ion under the whole htlavenh. (l)an. 7 :27.)
competition among skilled and common laborers, will result Unknown to men, he 1~1. for some time paqt been holding
in bringing down wages and making the poor poorer-which back the winds-prevent in:: the ronfllct until the servants
means less honor, less power, less comfori. * of God were senlrd in thclr foreheads (Re\-. 7 .3)--pi\-en an
In this condition men are easilv led. bv noliticnl dema- intellectual knowledgcl of the thinpq coxn~ng and thcair rel;~-
gogues and Socialistic enthusiasts, bnward ‘to -the conflict of tion to th e plan of God in thcx establi~hmc~nt of hi< klnpdom.
the “great day.” The Lord reserved until its due time that which hc had pre-
The true Church can sympathize also with the “kings, viously declared through the prophet. the many and npt~nc~y
rich men, mighty men, and rhlef captains,” in their view of in the overturning of tht> tlironca* of k~iipd~~~~i.-“l\~~~~wl~~l~~
[6831 (1)
(I-2) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBUPGK. PA.

shall be increased.” When ready to have knowledge increased, thousand shall fall at your side and ten thousand at your
and through knowledge liberty, the Lord brought to men the right hand. (Psa. 91:7.) A thousand to one is a very heavy
art of printing, to which, more than any other perhaps, the slaughter, and marks the severity of the battle, but evidently
overturning of every form of evil and oppression among men pictures what we may expect before our share in the battle
1s traceable. is complete. The thousand falling to one who will stand, is
\\-e see the various battalions now making ready; the a.9 real and truthful as the statements of the prophet relative
battle-line becomes more and more apparent, and the hosts to the trouble coming upon the world.
are marching to their respective positions, and soon the en- Do you ask the cause of so many falling, and the means
gagement will be general. by which the few shall stand? We answer that they fall be-
But what about the true Church? Has she no share in cause the Apostles words have not been heLded-“Take unto
this conflict? Will she have no part in this battle of the you the whole armor of God that you may be MLE to with-
great day? Ah ! here is a weak point with many: while in- stand in the evil day.” (Eph. 1: 13.) Alas ! how many in
terested in watching the world’s preparations, they neglect the ranks have nothing but the shield of faith. The shield
proper attention to their own share in this battle. is very valuable, and if we could have but one piece of ar-
-“Are there no foes for us to face?” mor it would doubtless be the most valuable, but unless
--“Sure we must fight if we would win.” we have more we must surely fall as this conflict progresses
-we will not be “able to star&” without more armor. Ah !
Yes! ves! Awake! the battle is already upon you. It
begins with the house of God real. extends to the house of how much we need sandals, the preparation of the Gospel
which leads us to expect and enables -us to endure the sh&p
Gcd nominal, and ends with the world. Be sober, be vigilant; difficulties of the narrow way unflinchingly, as good soldiers.
for the fiery darts of the enemy are even now -falling thick
and fast about vou. The battle of the great dav has alreadv How much we need to be girt about with truth, with the
commenced. The grand efforts of the Ldversacy now, is tb precious promises of God’s word, lest we become weary and
faint. How much we need to have well in hand the sword
disarm us of our faith in the cross of Christ as the power of of the Spirit which is the Word of God, that we may be able
God unto salvation, and if possible to convert us into enemies
of the cross. The -alarming extent to which he has already to keep the adversary at a respectful distance. How much
need there is also for the breastplate of Christ’s righteousness
succeeded should bid everv saint that thinketh he standeth -his merit recognized as covering our life, our vitals. How
take heed lest he fall. G-ever, by the grace of God, never
much need too, for the helmet, an intellzgent hope of salva-
let the banner of the cross be torn down. Evidently the “of- tion-a head-cover.
fense of the cross” (Gal. 5: 11) has not vet ceased. Still, it Those who are negligent about putting on the armor, and
is to the Jew [and the nominal Christian-] a stumbling-block,
and to the Greek rail the worldlv wise1 foolishness. that the are relying solely upon their shield of faith, to meet every
attack of the enemy, are making a great mistake-as the
death of Christ bought for mank&d life-and liberty.’ Up, sol-
diers of the Cross- enemy’s arrows [“bitter words,” sarcasm, sophistry, etc.,] are
showered upon you and he presses you close, you may lower
“Lift high the royal banner, your shield for a moment to note his position, and then un-
It must not suffer loss,” less you have a.n intellectual apprehension of the truth-a
The preaching of “Redemption through His blood-the helmet-the enemy will be sure to succeed in striking you
forgiveness of sins” (Eph. 1: 17 ) has always been opposed by with an arrow of sophistry, or if very guarded about your
the adversary, and he has ever found able assistance but head, and busy seeking to protect .your intellect by ,+your
never with s&h persistent and deceptive effort as now. shield of faith, you lift high the shield your breast will be
It is well that we all should clearly see the Enemy’s plan of exposed and there the arrow of 110 ran8om will strike, unless
attack. His soldiers appear clad in garments of light; they you have on the breastplate of Christ’s righteousness.
even wear aloft the name of Christ. and are divided into Even armed with the whole armor you will barely be
various companies, prominent among these being “Spiritists” able to stand-so fierce the assault. With all the armor on
and “Progressive Christians” so called, but all and every- there are chinks and openings of various sizes in our hel-
where they may be discerned by their opposition to the Cross. mets (intellectual apprehensions) which demand that we still
Some are more open and some more wily and mild in their be on our guard and cast not away our shield.
opposition, but ail deny the ransom-dehy the very founda- Let every soldier of the Cross put on the whole armor
tion of real Christianitv-that we “were bought with a nrice” and see well to it that it is true steel and not mere polished
“the precious blood of Christ.” ( 1 Cor. 7 :23 11 Pet. 1: I6.) tin. See that it all bears the imprint and marks of the Royal
Will the battle be hot-will many fall? Alas! yes, a Armory-the Word of God.

HOLY COLTBAGE.--~IO~~ courage characterizes every trUC The frowns of friends, or the threats of foes move him not.
life. The possessor of this life looks at the right, and says, His position is taken, and from it he will not be driven. When
“With God’s help I will do it.” He never for a moment asks he approaches the portals of the tomb, he exclaims, “I have
himself the question, “Will it affect my material interests?” fought a good fight” ; and when he is lowered into the grave,
but only, “Is it right?” If the reply to this question is the very remembrance of his heroism calls forth the word,
“Yes,” he moves right on in the sacred path of duty, though “There he lies who never feared the face of man.” Such are
it leads through a “burning, fiery furnace,” or a lion’s den. more than conquerors through him that loved us.--gel.

HAVE FAITH IN GOD

\Vhen the stormy winds are blowing, When your eyes are dim with weeping,
And the angry billows roll, And your heart is full of woe
\Vhen the mighty waves of trouble For the loved that now are sleeping
Surge around the stricken soul, In the cruel grave so low,
Have faith in God, Have faith in God;
Who reigns above; The dead shall rise
Trust in Him, To meet the Saviour
For He is love. By and by.
\\ hen the way is rough and thorny, Are you filled with eager longing
Danger all along the path, For the night to pass away?
\\.hen the foe is ever planning Are you weary of the watching
Ilow to crush you in his wrath, For the dawning of the day ?
Have faith in God; Have faith in God;
His loving care He is our stay;
Shall keep you safe Soon will come
From every snare. The perfect day.
Are you hoping and rejoicing
In the presence of the Lord?
Are you waiting for the kingdom,
And the glorious reward?
Have faith in God;
Our King is here,
And soon his glory
Will appear.
[684]
 TO WHOM WAS IT PAID?
“Jesus died and paid it all; Thus we have already sug.gested the answer to the fir,t
All the debt I owe.” question-Was the ran&n-sa&ficc presented to God ! Yc*-
We live in a day when the wherefore and why are sought Not only as above shown is it reasonable to say, that the $ac-
on every question. It is, therefore, to be expected that when rifice for sin should be presented to the one whose laws were
the grand old doctrine of a ransom for sin is being attacked violated. but we shall now oiler scrintural nroof that .Je-uz
and scoffed at, those who hold the doctrine should not only did pre$ent his sacrifice to God. * A
be reauired to eive a “thus saith the Lord,’ on the subject, The sacrifices for sin, under the Law, were sin-offerinp-
but also that wuhen asked to prove the reasonableness of- the unto Jehovah. See Lev. 4 :3. 4. 23. 24. 27. 31. 34 and ~$5.
statement, and show how, and why, and by whom, and to Exod. 3O:lO; Lev. 5:11, 12 and’Lev: 9:i, 6,‘7, and 2. Chron.
whom. and on what account the ransom for sins was given, 29 : 7-10. 20-24. These were but shadows and tvnes of the
we should be ready to show it. true &crifices for sins bv which the Lamb of “Got1 taketh
While it should be to all saints, and is to us, SUFFICIENT away the sin of the world, puting away sin by the 5acrific.e
that God’s Word declares that we were “bought with a price,,, of himself, and nresentine himself without sDot unto God
“redeemed with the precious blood of Christ,” ransomed “from (John 1:29, Heb.>:26; 1 P”et. 1:19; Heb. 10:4-G.
the grave” by Him who “gave himself a ransom for all,,, etc. The same thought -is taught inductively by the following
Yet it is gratifying to us that we are able to “give an an- scriptures, Deut. 32:17: 1 Cor. 10:20: Psa. 68:20 and Rom.
swer to every one that asketh on this important subject. 12:i.
Let us bow before the statements of Scripture, and let us Having thus established by scriptural testimony, the fact
also see that they prove logically that there was a ransom-sacrifice, and that it was presented
“How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord, to God, let us notice the objections implied in the ‘question.
Is laid for our faith in his excellent Word.,’ Did God require blood as a satisfaction or propriation for
Our opponents in an endeavor to make the rarrsorn look human sin? We answer, yes: and if Christians could take
unreasonable, ask and answer as follows, viz.: To whom can larger and fuller ideas of God and see the perfection of each
it be claimeh that this ransom sacrifice of Jesus was pre- of his attributes as well as the harmonv of them all. the
sented or paid? To God? Surely God delights not in blood matter would appear perfectly clear and “plain.
and death. God is love. Why should the loving Jehovah need It is because Justice, Wisdom, Love and Power are all im-
to be propitiated? (See “Propitation” in July TOWER.) Was perfect in us, that we are not quick to notice the nerfect
it Dresented to release man from death? Then it should operation of these qualities in bur Heavenly Fathe;. In
ha<e been presented to ‘him that hath the power of death, the fallen race Justice, Wisdom, Love and Power are con-
that is the devil.’ (Heb. 2:14.) Did Jesus present the run- tinually antagonizing each other, but not so with our Father
som sacrifice to the devil?” in heaven. With Jehovah, Wisdom first surveyed the field
By such questions and suggestions it is sought to ridicule and laid out the best Dlan, Justice. Love and Power con-
the ransom. and thus to turn some from the Dlain state- senting to it fully. Under wisdom’s direction man was Dlaced
ments of the Word. Before giving a solution of these queries, at once, under a Law the penalty of which was the forfeit
let us see how shallow is this method of reasoning. Sup- of his existence, and all the train of woes accompanying death.
nose we did not know, and could not answer to whom the Wisdom foreknew man’s FALL through inexperience, but felt
‘sacrifice of Jesus was ‘offered, would that disprove the fact justified in view of beneficial results-lessons, etc.
that he “was once offered to bear the sins of manv?” (Heb. When man disobeyed, JUSTICE stepped forward, drove him
9 :28, ) or the statement made by Jehovah that gis was a from Eden and delivered him over to Satan to be buffeted by
“sacrifice for sin,” “a propitiation for our sins, and not for evil circumstances that the FULL PENALTY of the violated Law
ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world?” (1 John might be inflicted-“dying thou shalt die.” While the Jus-
2:2.) Surely not. Ignorance of reasons or causes is no argu- tice element of God’s law (and character) was dealing with
ment against facts in any sane mind. man, the Love element was not indifferent. but it was l?ozoerless
If you were asked to give a full explanation of the power for two reasons: first, it could not oppose Justice,‘and sec-
and agencies which hold %his world in’ order while revolving ondly, it could not at first relieve man by satisfying Justice
in space, or of any other fact the philosophy of which you and providing a ransom-sacrifice for sin, because that would
imperfectly understand, would you be obliged to disbelieve alzd have- been in opposition to the plan marked out by infi-
de&y the PACTS because you co;ld not exp&zin them fully? So nite Wisdom; hence Love moved not to man’s relief, except
with the doctrine of RANSOM. Is it sensible or reasonable to to encourage and instruct through promises and typical sac-
ask any child of God to disbelieve the plain statements of rifices, shadowing forth its future work. Thus was Love
God’s iVord bccuuse he cannot fully explain its every reason employed while awaiting the auspicious moment when under
in detail ? You believe that a grain of corn grows when Wisdom’s direction it might act.
planted. You do not understand- and cannot explain fully, Finally that moment came. It was in “the fullness of
how and what the process, but do you therefore deny the time” (Gal. 4:4,) and in the “due time” IRom. 5 :6) that
fact? God se& forth his Son, “that he by the giace [favor, lore.
Let it not be forgotten, either, that some of our oppon- bounty] of God should taste death, for every man.” (Heb.
ents desire to seem to hold fast to the ScriDture. and hence 2:9). “Herein was MANIFESTED the Love of God in that while
sometimes use and quote the word ransom in such a manner as we were yet sinners, Christ died for the ungodly.” (I Jno.
to leave the impression with some that they are in harmony 4:9, Rom. 5:8).
with the Scripture where it occurs, but thev have never vet Love, because exercised in harmony with the Law of God
defined the word, nor explained the texts in’ which it oc&rs was not in conflict with Justice. Love’s method was not
with the context. Beware of such deceitful handling of the an attempt to overrule and oppose the sentence, nor to inter-
Word of God. fere with its full execution, but to provide a substitute or
Now we come to the questions. Let us consider them in ransom for man. By meeting for rnin the penalty inflicted
the reverse order: Was the ransom-sacrifice of Jesus me- by Justice (death.) Love forever releases mankind from the
sented to “him that hath the power of death, that is -the idamic curse (death) inflicted bp Justice. This was Love’s
devil ?” We answer, No, assuredly not. Satan’s power, though triumph no less than the triumch of Justice. Its triumph
willinplv exercised bv him. could not be exercised were it not was in the offering of the accentable rall~om-sncrilicc M hit.11
permi%d by the beat .Supreme Jehovah. And Jehovah Jesus presented to Justice-the element of God’s ch.~rnctt~l
would not have nermitted Satan’s Dower and the great calamitv which enforces his righteous decree and penalty.
to be inflicted ipon man, had it nbt been that bf sin man ha;d But Love’s triumph was not vet comDlrte. I Wisdom Ilad
brought it upon himself as the penalty of Jehovah’s violated marked out a course which not only should thus rc,tl(,(,~ man
law. but bv which he should be lifted back to nerfection. and
Hence Satan’s power, like that of a hangman, is a delegated that ;nder circumstances favolablc to his c>olasti,rg co11-
“power of death.” The hangman is merely the servant of the tinuance in well doing.
Law to execute is penalties. And Satan as the servant of the The plan was no less than the sclrction from among the
Law laid down by the Supreme Judge of all creation, per- redeemed ones of a “little flock” which through much trlbu-
mitted and used for a time as the executioner of the sentence lation and severe trial should be “accounted worfhv” to br
pronounced : “The wages of sin is death,,, “Dying thou shalt associated with Jesus in the work of rrsfori,tg mn;lkind to
die.” its original and perfect state. Hcncle Love iq still at work
If a prisoner’s ransom or fine was to be paid, it would not and soon, aided by the Power of Ornnipotrncc. will in the
be offered to the Jailor or Executioner, but to (the clerk of) Millennial aze, complete it4 work Iii the resurrection. rcstitu-
the Gowt whose law demanded it. So likewise the ransom tion. blcssin;,.of ail the farnil& of the Earth.
for sin should not be Daid to Satan the executor of penaltv, Thus it is seen. that in our Fathrr’s nl:ln all hi$ nttributcs
but to the power which condemned sin, made the penaity, an’d take their proper part and plare. and ’ the rcsjtlt ~111 br :I
ordered the execution of the guilty. grand triumph of all. tl(,lllolt.tr;ltirlg to :~ngcIq :~nd to men
I6851 k.Z)
(3-4) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, Pa.

that His Justice, Wisdom, Love and Power are each infinitely Deep in unfathomable mines
perfect and that together they walk out h.~rmoniously Hrs Of never-failing skill,
benevolent designs. He treasures up His bright designs,
And works his sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;
The clouds ye so much dread His purposes will ripen fast,
-Ire big with mercy, and shall break Unfolding every hour ;
In blessings on your head. The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace; Blind unbelief is sure to err,
Behind a frowning providence And scan His work in vain;
He hides a smiling face. God is His own interpreter,
And He will make it plain.

A RIVER THAT MAKES GLAD

“There 13 a river the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. (3od
1s m the midst of her; she shall not be moved. God shall help her, and that right early.“-Psa. 46:4, 5.
The preceding and succeeding words of this Psalm indi- symbol- we find that city represents a church, an ecclesiastical
cate a time of great and wide-spread trouble and distress, kingdom, true or false. The city of God, then, means the
which is here \ery graphically described in symbolic language; kingdom of God-the Church. As referred to here, it is not
the earth is removed, the mountains are carried into the the kingdom set up and glorified, else it would be represented
ml&t of the sea, the waters thereof roar and are troubled, as in the Most Holy. [See “Tabernacle Teachings,” pages 5
and the mountnlns shake with the swelling thereof. and 11.1 But it is the kingdom of God-the true Church, in
These things were not true, either in a symbolic or in a its present condition-the wholly-consecrated children, not
literal sense, in the day in which it was written, nor is it the mere outward professors. “There is a river,” a river of
yet fully a&ompllshed.- The writer spoke as moved by the truth, the blessed streams whereof makes glad this city of
Spirit of God, and, like the other Prophets, uttered many God.
things which he did not understand, they being written for How many of us have been refreshed, especially of recent
our admonition and instruction, in whose day only the appli- years, by these blessed streams of truth! Though we hear
cation is due. the roaring of the troubled sea, the murmuring and threaten-
The great bulk of prophecy was dark and mysterious, ing of discontented and oppressed people, and feel the shak-
alike to Jew and Gentile, until Jesus and the Apostles, under ing of the kingdoms with the swellings thereof; and though
the direct inspiration of the same Spirit that dictated them, we know that the dreadful result will be universal anarchy
gave us the keys to unlock their hidden meaning, never de- and the complete overthrow of all governments, yet we fear
signed to be understood until God’s “due time” should come; not, for “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help
and then only bv the consecrated in Christ Jesus. These in trouble.”
will give thei; consecrated time and labor and patient thought But our peace and composure, in view of these things, is
in annlvine
AL ”
the keys to the various locks, and these alone not a selfish condition which rejoices in its own security re-
receive the”rich reward-the meat in due season. gardless of the woes of others. Ah, no; for the streams of
We find that earth, in symbol, signifies human society as truth have brought to us the blessed assurance that
at present organized; that sea is a symbol of the unrestrained “Sweet &cord shall grow at length
and uncontrolled masses of mankind not submissive to either From out this clash of earthly discords.”
civil or relieious control: that mountains symbolize the great Men fear and tremble as the storm approaches, and will
ruling poweys of earth-the kingdoms of this world. We-find be in utter dismay when it bursts, yet the-Church ‘[all truly
that this interpretation of these symbols is applicable through- consecrated saints1 shall not be moved. “God shall heln her.
out the Scriptures wherever these terms are used eymbolically. and that right eat&.” Evelz now she is being strongly’forti:
In order to get the idea conveyed here, let us read verses fied with the truth which shall protect her. The Lord of
1 to 3, using the interpretation instead of the symbol: “God Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.
is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble; In verse 8 the Prophet carries us down to the time, and
therefore will we not fear, though the present organization of bids us view the scene, when these things will have been
society be dissolved, and though the kingdoms of earth be actually accomplished, saying, “Come, behold the works of
overthrown and swallowed up by a revolution of the people the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth. He
who will refuse to be longer-ruied by them.” maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he break-
If a literal mountain were cast into the midst of the sea, eth the bow and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the
it would quickly be swallowed by the sea; so will it be chariot in the fire.”
with the kingdoms of earth when overthrown by the turbu- What! is it the Lord that thus makes the earth deso-
lent masses of discontented people who are now mustering late? Yes, Isaiah also expresses it so, saying, “Behold, the
their hosts and disseminating their revolutionary principles Lord maketh the earth empty, and maketh it waste, and
under names now universally recognized-Communism, So- turneth it upside down, and scattereth abroad the inhabi-
cialism and Nihilism, etc. tants thereof.” (Isa. 24 : 1. )
This revolutionary spirit has not yet reached its climax; But have we not just seen that the trouble and destruc-
the earth is not yet removed; nor are the mountains yet car- tion is to be accomplished by a general uprising of discon-
ried thus into the midst of the sea; but the events of verse tented and ungovernable people? by such a revolution as
3 have come to pass. The waters of the sea [the discontent- Communists, Nihilists and Socialists contemplate? Yes. as
ed neoules] roar and are troubled. We hear the roaring of verse 6 states it, “The heathen [lit., nations] raged,” and as a
the- troubled waters from every quarter of the globe, and consequence “the kingdoms were moved.” “He [God] ut-
trulv the mountains Ikinedoms] shake with the swelling tered his voice; the earth melted.”
the&of. There is not a g&ernment on earth that does no‘t Truth on every subject, however, or by whomsoever ut-
realize that these are perilous times and in consequence of tered, is the voice of God. And it is the dissemination of
this fact, each is taking special precautions to protect itself truth, the voice of mankind, that is awakening them to a
agarnst the rising power of its own subjects-the roaring, keen sense of the inequalities existing under the present so-
troubled waves of the sea. cial organization, and this prompts them to assert their
This is the extent to which the events foretold in prophecy equal rights with their fellows and to make desperate efforts to
have at present ripened, and the rising storm will, from obtain them.
present indications, require only a few years to reach its But human effort will not be able to accomplish that
terrible climax, overthrowing and swallowing up in anarchy which is desired. The dreadful result will only be anarchy
and confusion all the kingdoms of earth. A few more years and wide-spread confusion, the earth will melt, organized
and the prophecy of verse 2 will find its complete fulfill- society will be dissolved. And when human effort has spent
ment, just as surely as we now realize the fulfilling of itself, and men realize their own inabilitv to riehtlv adiust
verbe 3. affairs among themselves, God speaks through xis “prophet,
But who is it that finds a refuge of peace and safety in saying, “Be still and know that I am God.” And wearied
the very midst of the shaking and dissolving kingdoms? Evi- and discouraged at their own efforts, men will hear, for, it
dently it is the class spoken of in verse 4 as “the city of God,” is written: “When the judgments of the Lord are in the
dwelling in “the holy” of the tabernacle of the Most High. In earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness.”
[6861
NOVEMBER. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

(Isa. 26:O.) Then, too, they will learn that “The Lord of Those who obey, who bid their own wills, their prejudices,
Hosts is with us,” and that Christ is present to rule and etc., be still, are learning now from God’s word the blessed
reign, and he wili be exalted among the-nations, he will be truth that the Lord’s Anointed is even now present to set up
exalted in the earth. Thev will realize that the God of his kingdom under the whole heavens, enforcing the will of
Jacob is their only refuge. ” God on earth as in heaven by abolishing evil and restoring
“And many people shall say, Come, let us go up to the the race to fellowship with God. Then all may partake freely
mountain of the Lord [let us seek protection and render of the river of truth, the streams whereof, even now, make
obedience to the kingdom of the Lord] and he will teach us glad the city of our God-the saints.
of his ways and we will walk in his paths.,’ (Isa. 2:2.) Another thought is suggested by this Psalm, viz., that
While the message, “Be still, and know that I am God,,’ some at least of the little flock who are to be joint-heirs with
will have a special zpplication to the world at the time just Christ will remain in their present condition, in the flesh,
referred to. it is an&cable to the Church now. Amid the until the now threatening and rising storm shall have at
clashing creeds of ihk manv great organizations claiming to least partially accomplished the overthrow of the present
be the-Church, and claiming-the support of the Scriptures kingdoms-until the mountains be carried into the midst of
for their various theories, andi yet denying and mystifying the sea. This is also in harmony with what we have learned
their teachings, God’s voice comes to his consecrated chil- with reference to the part the same class take in pouring
dren, saying, “Be still and know that I am God: I will be out the seven last plagues of Rev. 16. See Z. W. T., of
exalted among the heathen; I will be exalted in the earth.” June and July, 1883.

THIS PERSUASION
This persuasion cometh not of him that calleth you . . . . But he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment.--Gal. 5 :6. 16.
To persuade is to convince or teach. Every Christian Scriptures,” and that through his blood we have redemption
should “be fully persuaded in his own mind”; that is, he [from the curse of sin1 even the forgiveness of sins. (Gal.
should exercise his mind in the study of God’s revelation, so as 3:l and 1:4.) But their early trust in Christ’s redemptive
to know just what he believes, and the scriptural rea- work had been disturbed by some Christianized Jews, who,
son for his belief. Thus the Apostle responded and testified while calling themselves Christians, were denying the very
concerning “the kingdom of God, persuading men concerning foundation fact of Christianity, viz.: that Jesus’ death can-
Jesus. both out of the Law of Moses and out of the Prophets,“’ celled the sins of all who accepted of him as their Redeemer
assisting the willing ones to make up their minds, and to and Saviour.
recoanize in Jesus the crucified. the one tvnified in the sac- They did not deny Jesus, else the Galatians would have
rific& of the Law, and referred to in the P;Gphets-the Lamb been unmoved by their teachings. But calling themselves
of God who taketh away the sin of the world-putting away Christians, and confessing that Jesus was a notable and
sin bv the sacrifice of himself, being delivered for our of- worthy EXAMPLE, they denied the ransom-they denied that
fence;, but raised for our ju&ficati&, in which risen and there was “redemption through his blood, even the forgive-
glorified condition, he shall soon fulfill all the prophetic ness of sins.” (Cal. 1: 14.) They claimed that Jesus’ exam-
declarations of alorv and blessing. ple was good, yet, if any would be saved they must accom-
After summing up the evidence of God’s love as revealed plish their salvation by good works, and observance of the
in the fact that “He snared not his own Son. but delivered law-circumcision, etc. That these were the facts, is evi-
him up for us all,,, aid that since “It is Christ that died” dent from the Apostle’s language throughout this epistle.
for our sins, and thus became our ransom price from sin’s The very first chapter makes it very prominent: “I marvel
penalty, the Apostle says no one has a right to condemn us, that ye are so soon removed from him that called you INTO
for surely God, who has justified us through this offering of THE GRACE O F CHRIST unto another gospel, which is not
his Son, would not now condemn us. Then he concludes his [really] another [Gospel] ; but there be some that trouble
btrone argument bv saving. “I am persuaded that neither
” ” -.
you and would pervert [turn] the gospel of Christ.” (Gal.
death, nor-life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor 1:6, 7.) W e should note the fact that the Apostle clearly
things nresent. nor thinas to come. nor height. nor denth. and distinctly shows here that the true gospel was that of
nor iny’ other ‘creature, shall be able to separite’us from-the grace or favor through Christ.
LOVE O F GOD which is in Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 8:38.) All The gospel says, Here, take salvation as a gift, a favor
God’s love and mercy and blessings come to the race in and of God through Christ. Jesus has made of himself a pro-
through Jesus and his work-“through whom are all things, pitiatory sacrifice for our sins; he died the just for the un-
and we in him.,’ just and now presents us with the fruits of his sacrifice-
But in the Scriuture under consideration, the Apostle free, for the taking of it. That which you could not win by
refers to a teaching br persuasion which was being adv*anced your own service and merit, you mav have free, it is the
in the Church. which he assures them is not of God. This Lord’s bounty or grace, a “free-gift,” purchased for you with
shows the necessity of guarding our judgments, so that we be his own precious blood. This was indeed elad tidings.
persuaded only of God, and not by the adversary, even though But this other gospel to which some i&ited the&, Paul
he should present his persuasion through some of those who assures them was not really glad tidings at all; it was simply
have been recognized as teachers in the Church. the Jewish law of salvation by merit and obedience, supple-
Let us closely examine this evil persuasion here referred mented by the name and example of Jesus. But, as all may
to, that we may judge whether it is being now used to “trou- see, this would do little good, for the name of Jesus is noth-
ble” the Church The Apostle’s argument as shown by the ing except as it means a guviour from sin and its penalty.
preceding context, is not against the Law. No, that is the (See Matt. 1:21.) Jesus’ example as a perfect man was
common way of viewing the matter, but an incorrect view. The so far bevond their abilitv to follow. that thus thev must
law was the law of God, hence could not be bad. It was the come shori, for his exampl;! was nothing less than thed frcllcst
same law, of which the same Apostle declares: The law is expression of their LAW, under which, their experience as well
just and holy and good. (Rom. 7:12.) It is manifestly in- as the Apostle’s words, proved that none could be izrstified to
correct then to suppose that he is here opposing the law. life. Hence it is that.the Apostle declares, that merely link-
His argument is, that because of inherited condemnation and ing the example and name of Jesus to the Law, did not con-
weakness, the law could not justify any to life: that is to stitute another Gospel or good news, for there was nothing
say, no one would be counted worthy of everlasting life on in it which could give them life. Under it they would still
account of right doing (keening the law,) because all are be in their sins; hence still under the death penalty. He
imperfect and-sinful by inherited nature and none could keep marvels that they should turn from justification through the
the law perfectly. sacrifice of Jesus, and attempt to justify themselves by fol-
It was because the keeping of the law could not iustifv lowing his example and keeping the law.
(declare just, or righteous, & pure) any one, but on t& The Apostle argued against “this persuasion” or doctrine.
contrarv. renroved and condemned all. that Jesus came and which endeavored-to base salvation- upon the keeping of
gave hi”mseli a ransom for all, to thus redeem us from our the law and following Jesus’ example, instead of on the merit
ynherited curse. Hence while the Law is good, it was use- of his sacrifice freely imputed to all who would accept of it.
less as a justifier of sinners, for it condemned totally all who To present the matter very pointedly before them. he de-
did not harmonze with it perfectly. clares that they must choose one or two ways, for God had
The Anostle was writing
1
to Christians at Galatia. some provided only the two and they could not be blended: Either
who had been heathens. They had originally rereivkd the thev must hold to the law and hone for eternal life throuohr
correct idea, that “Christ died for our sins according to the obedience to it, gaining all the hllp they can from the ex-
C6871
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

amples of Jrbus and prophets, etc., or else on the other hand ward. Hence the Apostle assures us that “By the deeds of the
renounce all these and flee to the merit of Christ’s obedience law shall no flesh be JUSTIFIED." (Rom. 3:20.) This being
and sacrifice alone. His words are, “I Paul say unto you, true, there is no other “way” (John 14:0; 10 : 1,) and “none
that If ye be cil cumc*iacd, Christ shall profit you nothing”- other name under heaven given among men whereby we
that is to sav, the rite of circumcision, if practiced, is an must be saved,” than Jesus, and the way he opened up when
evidence that‘vou are hoping to justify yourselaes by your he “gave himself a runsom for all,” and thus opened up a
own works. an;1 not trusting to the merits of Jesus’ sacrifice; new way to life. (1 T’lm. 2 :B.) The way of the Law (war-ks)
and if not trusting in the kerits of Jesus’ sacrifice for your had been offered to the sinful and condemned Jew for 1800
81111. then you are still under sin and its penalty as much years, and had never justified one of them, hence they should
RF thourh that sacrifice for sin had not been made; for you have been ready for the new way brought to their attention
are not<&aeping its advantages, and to be had, they must be through the glad tidings, viz., that Jesus had cancelled the
laid hold of by ftr~tk in him as your sin bearer. “Christ is claims of justice against both Jew and Gentile by meeting
become of no effect unto you; whosoever of you are justified all its requirements in his own person, on which account God
br the law: ye are fallen from grace” [favor]. (Gal. 5:2, 4.) could be just when he justified [declared righteous and worthy
\‘ou. who seek b!l works, to justify yourselves and free your- of life] t”hose who, by- bel&vin~ in the random, had their sin>
selves of the condemnation resting upon you, are relying blotted out and Jesus’ righteousness imputed to them. (Acts
upon that for salvation, whether you call yourselves Chris- 3:19; Born. 4.)
tians and follow his example, or whether you call yourselves 0, thoughtless Galatians, who has deluded you? [This
<Tell--s and follow the example of Moses and the prophets. might be fitlv aDplied to those of our dav who are turning
The principle is the same. You are turning from and re- f&m free grace assured by Jesus’ ransom: to look for grac;
Jetting the grncc-flrc fol Or--THE FREE GIFT of CfOd through as the result of their own sacrifices,] before whose eyes Jesus
C’llrist by endeavoring to obtain everlasting life without rec- Christ was previously represented as having been crucified
ognizing the I-u~~w~~~which God pwvitlctl. and .Jesus gave. and for our sins.
Beloved let us not forget that “this persuasion comet11
PRESENT FORM OF THIS PERSUASION not of Him that calleth you,” through whomsoever it comes ;
\Te know of none to-day who arc turnillg to the law, as even though it might come througfi an angel from heaven.,
such, though they nre turning to the law m the sense that it is from the Adversarv. It “cometh not from him that
thev are turning to works, to good deeds, self-denials and calletti you.” But while rejecting “this persuasion,” “cast not
Je&s’ example (which was keeping the law and justification away your confidence” in Christ and the promises which God
to life thereby) as the basis of hoped-for future life. They has made, which have a great recompense of reward. Be fully
thus turn to an ungiven and unwritten law, which they think persuaded in your own minds-not satisfied to accept any
ought to insure God’s favor and blessing of endless life, just testimony or persuasion not well sustained by the word of
as these Galatians turned to the Law given to Israel with the Lord. Then with Paul you will be “persuaded” that God
its promises of life. Both these of today, and those whom is “for us,” and that his lavor is manifest in that. “He
Paul addressed. have forgotten or failed to see, that because of spared not his own Son, but delivered him up [to death] for
sin and depravity, we cannot render perfect works to God, us all” [as our ransom]. And if we are thus justified by
and that God’s ereat comprehensive law, as well as its brief God’s own act, and through his own arranged sacrifice for
synopsis given “to Israel,- condemns as unworthy of life- sins, He certainly no longer condemns us. Who can con-
worthy of death-every creature which cannot, and does not, demn us while we know that “It is God that justifieth” us 1
fulfill its every requirement perfectly. Tf they realized this, Who could ‘condemn us longer, when it is known that “It 1s
they would see the uselessness of presenting to God anything Christ that died” on our behalf, “the just for the unjust?”
short of PERFECTION, with any hope of its acceptance and re- Nor can anything separate us from such love.

FAITH AND WORKS

The relationship between faith and works is simple and can bear fruit, i. e., perform works acceptable to God through
clear when seen from a scriptural standpoint, yet very ob- Jesus Christ.
scurely recognized by the great majority. The works of many justified ones are really no better, and
\Vorks can never justify us, nor so long as we are under perhaps through a larger share in the Adamic fall and de-
the imperfections resultant from sin can God recognize works pravity, not actually so good as many others, yet from God’s
at all. He is perfect, and cannot accept or enjoy that which standpoint the works of those justified by faith in Christ’s
is imperfect. Since of the Adamic race there are none right- work are daunted absolutely perfect, both the works and the
eous, no not one, it follows that Jesus’ works only are well person being acceptable to God by or through the implied 01
pleasing and acceptable to God. zmputed merits of Jesus. On the contrary, he who accepts
But here comes in the province of FAITH. Jesus having not of Jesus’ ransom is not justified; hence, neither himself
“died for our sins,” faith may grasp the fact that he bore nor his works would be acceptable to God. He abides still
our sins in his own body on the tree and appropriated to us under the condemnation [the same word elsewhere translated
the freedom from SinLjustification which results. Thus we damnation]-that is on the world. (Rom. 5 : 18 ; Jno. 3: 18.)
are iustified and brought into fellowship with God, not by The whole world, as tried representativelv in Adam. was
our *own works, but ~YFA~H in the zoo&s which Jesus did found disobedient and condemnld to the pt&alty prescribed
for us; and as a result of our faith in the thoroughness of viz. excommunication from God and final extinction of being.
Jesus’ work and its acceptableness to God as a “propitia- This penalty still remains, and is strictly enforced (Rom. 6 :
tion [satisfaction1 for our sins”’ we realize that “there is 16.) Consequently the grand aim of all should be, not to avoid
now therefore no condemnation” resting upon us in Jehovah’s being condemned-it is too late for that, all are condemned.
sieht. Our works alone could not accomplish this result, (Rom. 5:18.) Our object must be to escape [from] the con-
acd to attempt to add them to the perfect &ork which Jesus demnation that is on the world.
did for us would be to doubt the perfection and complete- There is only one way to escape, and that is an abso-
ness of Jesus’ work-his sacrifice-&d. thus to lose ali our luely certain and perfect way. God provided it. You can-
interest in it; for it is imputed to us as a result of faith. not escape by your own righteousness [truly we have none;
Thus it appears that our works are ruled out entirely, and yours and mine are only “filthy rags,“] even as you were
have no sha;e in justifying us to life. What, then, is the not condemned for your own sin. We are condemned on ac-
value and nrovince of works on our Dart? We replv that count of another’s sin, and a way of escape has been pro-
when faith has grasped and’appropriate’d justification’through vided through a ransom given on our behalf.
Jesus’ work, then we reckoned of God as thus freed from sin,

ESCAPE FROM CONDEMNATION

We got into condemnation without our choice, but cannot to these, he was a good man, who set an excellent example.
pet out of it without our choice, but the conditions for es- Nay, it means more. The names here given indicate it
rape are so simple and easy that all shall be without excuse. Lord, and Jesus, and Christ. The belief which releases from
It is simply “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.” condemnation sees him as Lord, or Master and Ruler. It sees
But to believe on him means more than at first appears, him also as Jesus Saviour, Deliverer, for such is the signif-
perhaps. It does not mean that men shall simply believe icance of the world. It seea him also as the Christ, the one
that such a man lived and died, nor even that, in addition, he anointed as Jehovah’s representative.
rose again and is now highly exalted; nor that, in addition
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NOVEMBER,1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

Believers only have yet, in any sense, escaped the condem- full when we are perfected and like our Lord in glory. To
nation that is on the world. “There is therefore now no con- this escape from condemnation we may invite all in the name
demnation to them that are in Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 8:l.) of our L&d Jesus and through the me&t of his sacrifice.
Christians frequently say to worldly people, “If you don’t But do some enauire, If be2ief is essential to escave from
stoD your course and reform, you will be lost,” and receive condemnation, how ‘will ‘it be wiih those who have died with-
the reply, “We are as good and honorable as many you think out faith or knowledge of the redemption which is in Christ
will be saved.” and the entire argument is wasted and the Jesus ? If belief must precede escape, does it not seem that
truth obscureh. Let the world k&w that it is lost-is “con- such have no hope?
demned air.eady,” and that Jesus came to seek and save that We answer: Your difficulty arises from too narrow a
which was lost to make a way of escape from the condemna- view of the escape from death. You use it as though it meant
tion already upon mankind. Show them the necessity of the to raise from the tomb, as for instance, Lazarus, Jariuq
ransom given and the real and blessed results of that ransom daughter and others, but its use in Scripture is more comnre-
obtainable by faith in the Lamb of God, and it will have a henLive, viz., a full,’ complete escape from all the penalty of
convincing effect. sin; this would include the removal of pain, sickness, etc., as
But does some one enquire, What I have believers actually incidents to death and excommunication from God. The
escaped what the world is still under? We reply, They have “widow of Nain’s son” was raised, but not to perfection of
escaped the excommunication, condemnation, which came upon life: he did not escaPe the condemnation: hence was still ha-
man, and now they have access to God and “fellowship with ble ‘to pain and siikness, and again passed into Adamir
the Father,” things from which the sinner was debarred as death.*
soon as the penalty went into execution. Thus we, who had But in the Millennial Age all the world is to be “raised”
been far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. (Eph. 2: in like manner, and brought-to a knowledge of the truth, and
13.) Our access is not complete yet, for outward manifesta- will thus reach a basis for faith. bv the exercise of which ther
tions of God’s favor are not yet granted, only that which is may escape completely from the condemnation, and come intb
by faith. But this is precious, and the other will shortly be the full perfection of being and communion enjoyed by Adam
ours. before siti.
Another result of the ransom, another part of the con- Thus, it is evident from God’s plan that all men shall be
demnation which believers escuve. is death. We now bv faith brought to a position where faith in the ransom will be pos-
only realize on the strength oi 6od’s word and the e%dence sible, and it is equally clear that none will be covered by its
before us that Jesus bore the penalty of our sins in his death, “propitiation” who do not recognize and acknowledge it, for
and on the strength of the reconciliation already effected, as no man cometh unto [into communion and fellowship with]
one of its resultsVmUEvE and realize that we are passed ffom the Father but by Jesus.
denth unto life. Eventually this blessing shall be realized in

THE CLEANSING MAINTAINED

If our escape from sin and its condemnation is by a ran- This grand truth is clearly expressed by the Apostle. (1
som for Adam’s sin, what shall we conclude concerning er- Jno. 1:7, 8.) He is writing of himself and fellow believers.
rors, omissions and transgressions now committed by those who by iait)l in Christ ha6 been justified and have escaped
who have escaped and who have been JUSTIFIED from Adamic the condemnation, and says: “If we say that we have no sin
sin? Would not the least sin on our part bring us again under [i. e., actual sin; if we claim that our everv word, thoueht
condemnation ? And would not this require another sin-of- and deed is perfect], we deceive ourselves and”the t&h is iot
fering to rannsom us afresh and enable us to again escape from in us.” “But if we walk in the light as he is in the light, we
condemnation ? [and Jehovah] have fellowship one with another [God and
The lack of a reasonable answer to these reasonable ques- we], and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from
tions has confused many on the subject of ransom. They say: all sin.”
If God can and does forgive recent offences without a ransom, What a beautiful thought-what a glorious truth! Though
why did he not do so with the original offence, the Adamic still actually imperfect, only reckoned righteous, still liable
transgression ? to and sometimes overcome by evil because of inherited weak-
Tee answer is simple and very clear; Our Lord’s sin-of- ness, yet by walking in the light, we may maintain our com-
fering cancelled fully the Adamic sin and all guilt which munion with God, and mav realize, on confession. the foreive-
came bv or throueh it in anv way. Sin, as it is in the world, ness of every sin’and that the precious blood-the ran&m-
is entirely traceaYble to Ada&s sin. The impaired moral and keeps us clean from every stain of sin. Thus, and in no other
physical nature which you received from your parents (and way, can we ‘IreeD our garments unsDotted from the world.”
they from theirs back to Adam) is the fruitful source of your (J&nes 1:27.) 6ur roses of righteousness presented to us
besetments to sin, and the open door by which you are easily by our Lord aa the fruit of his sacrifice, our wedding garment
assailed by the adversary. Hence, when you would do good, needful to a place at the marriage of the Lamb, would soon
evil is sometimes presented so as to mislead and entice your be defiled were it not for the continued efficacy of the blood.
degenerated nature into sin. This sin is traceable to the To this, his plan, by which he can be just and yet justify
Adamic transeression: hence it is covered by the ransom. him that believeth, God invites us, saying; “Come, let us rea-
Whosoever, th&, has by faith laid hold upon the ransom and son together [I will make clear and plain to you how] :
escaped condemnation, finds ample assurance in our Father’s though your sins be as scarlet, thev shall be as white as snow;
word that the blood of Jesus not only covers the sins that are thouih they be [deep] red like c&son [a fast colorl, they
past, but also all those present and future, not willful, but shall be as wool.” Yes: “The blood of Jesus Christ. his Son.
occasioned by the inherited weakness of the flesh. cleanseth us from all sin.” (Isa. 1: 18; 1 John 1: 7.) ’

RANSOM AND TESTIMONY: WILL THEY BECOME CO-EXTENSIVE

I. TIM. II. l-6.
The writer of this epistle was a large-hearted man. There dation facts-the death of Christ. The meaning of the fact
was a special place in his heart for special believers, and is that he “suffered for our sins, the just for the unjust.
another for his kinsmen according to the flesh, and room to that he might bring us to God”-he “died for our sins ac-
spare for all other men without exception. “I desire (saye cording to the Scriptures “-or, as here expressed, he “gave
he), that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and himself a ransom for all.” At this point it may be asked,-
giving of thanks, be made for all men.” His heart expanded 1. What is a ransom? It means the price paid to redeem
with the right feeling because his eye was fixed on the right from captivity or punishment. It is something which has been
model. “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God paid for something which has been forfeited; and the one is
our Savior; who will have all men to be saved, and to come considered to be the equivalent of the other. Here another
unto the knowledge, of the truth.” And that he had the right question arises,-
conception of the right model was to him clearly demonstrated What was forfeited? To answer this question, we revert
in the most matter-of-fact way. “For there is one God and &k,yg zradle of our race. Adam, we are to.ld, wa? “the
one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; He had no human father-he denved his life
who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” direct from’ its source. He was made in the image or like-
It is this matter-of-fact proof that God “will have all men l It is evident that those “raised” from the tomb, when they returned
to be saved,” which at present demands the utmost attention. to it a few years after. did not experience the “second death.” Yet, If
It is comprised of two parts-first, the fact and its meaning; they had been FULLY lifted out of the first, it would have been R “second
death.” This proves that RESURRECTION,or a complete r~rorcry from
and second, the testimony which is to be given respecting it. Adamic death. means a full release from all its power, a brmglng back
I. The fact and its meaning. The fact is one of our foun- or restitutton to original perfection.
I-44 16891
(6) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

nest of God; and to him was given dominion over all the wae quickened (made alive) in the spirit. The Apostles had
earth and all that it contained. Head of the human race and known Christ “after the flesh,” but a time came when Paul
Lord of its home, he was pronounced by the highest author- wrote, “Even though we have known Christ after the flesh,
ity “very good.” He was placed under law. It was plain and yet now we know him so no more.,’ (R. V., 2 Cor. 5: 15.) At
positive, and its penalty-death. He broke that law, and im- his resurrection he became the “first-born” of a new race. On
mediately came under its penalty. The life thus forfeited was one side of his grave he was “like unto his brethren”-flesh
not his own individual life merely, but being the head of and blood, and on the other he is “the Lord the Spirit,” ‘a
the race, the life of the entire race was forfeited in him. Hu- life-aivinn Snirit,” and so on. There is no ground here for
man life then being the forfeit, and its extent universal,- rear&able objection, doubt, or even uncerta&ty. The ran-
What of the ransom? It was equal to the forfeit, human som paid was equal to the forfeit; and having been once paid,
life, and its extent universal. Every particular in which it remains always paid. It is for those who have not as yet
Adam was different from his progeny, Jesus was his equal. accepted this glad message to welcome it to their hearts now.
He was born of the virgin, Son of God, image of God, Lord You have no guarantee that ever you will hear it repeated;
of earth. federal head, the holy from his mother’s womb. Here and it is for those who are not obeying “the Lord that bought
analogy between the two -4dams seems to end. When tempted, them” to yield to his paramount claims now. No other lord
the first Adam fell, and involved all mankind in his degra- has any such claim upon you. “Ye are not your own, ye are
datiou and punishment. When tempted, the last Adam re- bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and
sisted-resisted unto death, even the- death of the cross, and in your spirit, which are God%.” This brings us up to the
involved all mankind in his righteousness and self-sacrifice. other part of our subject,-
The most unimpeachable testimony was given to his sinless- II. The testimony respecting this great fact. The Apos-
ness. He was “holy, harmless, undefiled and separate from tle says that it is “to be testified in due time.”
sinners,” and “without spot” he offered himself to God. This 1. What is to be testified? That Christ gave himself a
was giving life for life-human life for human life-untainted ransom for all. That great fact was never intended to re-
human life for untainted human life. This was paying an main a secret. In the divine plan means were devised for
equivalent price. Justice demanded this. It demanded no establishing it beyond the possibility of reasonable doubt, and
more. It could accept no less. The pre-existence of Christ is for publishing it to all concerned. In the immediate context
not forgotten, any more than his present existence, but these the Apostle writes, “Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and
are not our present theme. It was not angelic life that was an apostle . . . . a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and ver-
forfeited. Nor was it divine life (were that possible). It itv.,, As an Apostle, he bore witness to the fact; as a
was human life, For this special purpose He took part of Preacher, he proclaimed the glad tidings based upon it; and
“fresh and blood”: ,and the demands of justice were fully met as a Teacher, he expounded its meaning. These are some of
when the “Holy One” tasted death for “every man.” Some the different aspects in which the same thing is viewed. TO
have asked,- sav that this fact is to be testified in due time. is. in other
2. How can the death of one man be equivalent to the w&ds, to say that its gospel is to be preached ‘in ‘due time,
death of everv man ? We mav ask another ouestion: How can or that its doctrine is to be taught in due time. There are
the sin of oue man be equibalent to the ‘sin of every man? some six, or more, words used by the Apostles, each setting
The answer to the one auestion will be the answer to the forth a different aspect of this one and the same thing.
other. We know of only- one way in which these questions 2. Who is to testify it? It is sometimes called “the tes-
can be answered. These two men-Adam and Jesus-were timonv of God.” and sometimes “the testimonv of Christ,”
equal. Thev were federal heads: and the onlv two men who sometimes “the Spirit’s” testimony, and sometimes that of
ever occupikd that position. Through the ‘;in of the one the Anostles and Pronhets. It originated in God, it was
death fell unon our entire race. and throueh the death of given \n the power of the Holy Sp&it, and its words were
the other that dread penalty was exhausted.- By the one act uttered by the Christ, the Apostles, and the Prophets, It var-
the old Adamic account was opened, and by the other that ies as to time, and manner, and agent, and accompaniment, but
account was closed. The account now stands square-the it never varies as to origin. It is God’s testimony. Hence John
engagements on the one side being equal to the liabilities on argues, “If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is
the other. It is true that some of the engagements have not greater . . . he that believeth not God hath made him
as vet matured, but, thank God! thev are of such a nature a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave
that not one of them can fail. Th& is no human theory. of his Son,, (1 Jno. 5:9, 10). It is well for man that It is
There is no truth more plainly stated in the Divine Word. God’s testimony. This not only puts its credibility beyond a
Paul is specially strong and clear on these points. “Wherefore doubt, but it makes it certain that it will reach every one
as bv one man sin entered into the world. and death bv sin: for whom it was intended. Referring to the word which
and “so death passed upon all men, in whom (ma&) ali goes forth out of his mouth, God has said, “It shall not re-
have sinned. For as by one man’s disobedience many were turn unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I
made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
righteous. . . That as sin hath reigned unto death, even (Isa. 55:ll.)
so-might grace reign through righteou&ess unto eternal life 3. Why is it to be testified? Because the testimony is
bv Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Ram 5:12. 19. 21).
I ,
Another as necessary as the fact itself. Without the testimony the
question arises here: fact would remain without any moral result. Physical results
3. As the ransom of man has been paid, why do the liv- you can have without information, but to have moral results,
ing continue to die, and the dead remain dead? Because the information is absolutely indispensable. That the man Christ
reiurrection hour has not come yet. In God’s plan there is a Jesus gave himself a ransom for all, is a stu endous fact;
time for evervthinn. ‘When the fulness of the time was but it has no moral power except where it is ‘I nowu. Paul
come God send fodh his Son” ; “in due time” he laid down puts this matter beyond a doubt. “Whosoever shall call
the price of man’s redemption; and when the appointed hour unon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall
comes round he will claim his nurchased nropertv. “Marvel they call on him in whom the have not believed? And how
not at this: for the hour comkth in whfch -all -that are in shall thev believe in him of w %om thev have not heard? and
the tombs shall hear his voice. and shall come forth: thev how shall they hear without a preach&? and how shall they
that have done good unto the resurrection of life, and the preach except they be sent? . . . So then, faith cometh
that have done ill unto the resurrection of judgment.,’ R. 4 by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom. 10 : 13-
(John 5:28. 29.) “I will ransom them from the power of 71.) There are, of course, other effects produced by the
the grave; I wiil redeem them from death: 0 death, I will death of Christ than those to be found in the mind, heart and
be thv ulaeues: 0 grave. I will be thv destruction.,’ (Hosea 13: character of man, but the purpose of God is that death can
14. ) ” Yet “another oquestion on this part of our subject claims never be fully accomplished until man is brought intelli-
an answer: gently under its saving influence.
4. Seeing that Christ died a ransom for man. how was it 4. To whom is it to be testified? The obvious answer
that he did “not remain dead? By rising again,, did he take to this question is, To whomsoever it may concern. ‘I he ran-
back the mice of redemution? If he did. there is no houe som being for all. all are vitally interested in it, and there-
for us. But he did not, thank God! he did not. The life f& fore it is’ to be t&stifled to all.- Universal ransom and uni-
feited was human life-flesh and blood life. The life given in versal testimony are twin-elements of one scheme. Limit
ransom was the same. That was never taken back. Peter either of them and the scheme is mutilated. Formerly many
makes this point very plain. “For Christ also hath once suf- limited both. Now many admit the universality of the ran-
fered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring som, and deny that the testimony concerning it will ever
us to God; being put to death in the flesh, but quickened in become universal; but the two must stand or fall together.
(R. V.) the spirit.,’ ( 1 Peter 3 : 18. ) Had he been quick. This point, however, is not to be settled by any inferential
ened in the flesh, as some contend, there might have been the reasoning. The question for us is, what saith the Scriptures?
appearance of taking back the ranaom. But he was not. He and our quotations will he of the most familiar description.
NOVEMBER. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER
In the preceding verse: Paul says God “will have all men from the dead. The “due times” began when this testimony
to be saved and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” was first given to our redeemed race; they have been going
(1 Tim. 2, 3, 4.) This being so, the truth must be preached on ever since, and they cannot end until every man has
to all men. How else could all men come to a knowledge of heard the gladsome sound, “Bless the Lord 0 mv soul, and
it? In a succeeding chapter he says God is “the Saviour of all that is within me bless His holy name.” .
all men, specially of those that believe” (4 : 10). Here faith is III. In conclusion. nermit a few words of caution and
the dividin line between all men and a class, testimony al- discrimination. First,’ a’s to the ransom:
ways prece if es faith, therefore testimony must be given to all 1. Those who say that Jesus was literally “the son of
men. In writing to Titus the same Apostle says, “The grace Joseph,” “tainted with sin,,’ had to “offer UD sacrifice. first
of God that bringeth salvation to all men hath appeared” for his own sins and then for the people’s,” aid so on, should
(2: 11) . It being characteristic of the grace of God to bring pause and nonder well their uosition. Were those and km-
salvation to all men, and that grace having appeared, it can dred propo&ions true, the raisom would not be equal to the
never disappear until it has accomplished its mission. “Be- forfeit, and therefore it could not in justice be accepted.
hold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to 2. When men teach that Jesus rose as he died-“mortal.”
all people.” (Luke 2 : 10.) The angel of the Lord says, that their doctrines seem to imply that the price paid for our
the good tidings shall be to all the people. Who is man, and redemption was taken back again. Were that so. it would
what is he, that he dare say that the good tidings shall not leave us entirely without hop< as much so as though Christ
be to all people? “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth will had never died. Then as to the testimony:
draw all men unto me.” (Jno. 12:32). This, of course, is 3. Were the testimony respecting the ransom to end with
figurative, but the teaching is plain. Jesus says that he the present age, that would prove the Gospel to be a failure.
will draw all men unto him, men cannot be drawn until they It cannot be shown, so far as I know, that more than one in
hear of him, therefore, all men are to hear of him. “That was 150, or in 140 at most, of those for whom the ransom was
the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the paid have even so much as heard of it. If it is to end so,
world.” (John 1 :Q. ) This, too, is figurative, and the teach- what else could it be than a failure? Let us take care lest
ing is equally clear. Jesus is the true light which lighteth we put arguments into the mouths of infidels, as to the love,
every man, he cannot be light to any man until he has heard the wisdom and the power of the Most High.
of him, therefore, every man is to hear of him. Whether, 4. Affirming that the testimony will ultimatelv become
therefore, we appeal to Paul, or to John, to the angel of co-extensive wi& the ransom is no foundation for” “Univer-
the Lord, or to the Lord himself, the evidence here given only salism.” Sin is universal, death is universal. and the testi-
in sample, is plain and conclusive. And as the words which mony will become universal, but there is no evidence to con-
are used proving the extent of the testimony-“all people,” clude that the accentance of the testimonv will ever become
“all men,” “every man.” and so on-are the same as those universal. On the cbntrary, history, exper&nce, and prophecy,
which are used proving the extent of the ransom, the con- all prove that as it was in the beginning, it is now, and ever
clusion is inevitable that ultimately the testimony will he- will be-when the testimony is given to all, some will accept
come co-extensive with the ransom. and others will reject it.
5. And when is it to be testified? According to the A. V. 5. Contending that those who never heard the gospel be-
the apostle says, “in due time”; but according to the E. D., fore death will hear it after resurrection is no encouragement
the R. V., and other authorities, the word rendered “time” to rejecters of, or triflers with it now. It does not bear upon
is plural; and therefore we ought to understand Paul as say- their case. We do not say who among the present hearers of
ing, “in due times, or seasons.” Those times are partly past, the -gospel. are reiecters of it, but it cannot be too carefull\
partly present, and partly future. The Apostle Peter refers noted that there 6 no evidence whatever to conclude that a&
to prophetic testimony given respecting the redeeming work deliberate and wilful rejecter of the gospel here will ever !iav.e
of Christ before he appeared in the aesh, (1 Peter, l:lO, 11.) its blessings offered to him hereafter. To all present hearers of
God Himself more than once in an audible voice bore witness the Gospei; now is their “due time.” “Behold, now is the ac-
to His Son in connection with his work. And Christ himself, cented time: Behold. now is the dav of salvation.”
while upon the earth, testified respecting it. On leaving the - 0. And ‘as to our position gem&ally. It affords-more
earth he spake of other witnesses who were to continue this than any other that I am aware of-harmonious views, not
testimony. “When the Comforter is come, whom I will send only of the justice, but also of the wisdom and the love of
you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which pro- God. I well remember the time when I first heard of “the
ceedeth from the Father. He shall testifv of Me: and ve also universality of the atonement.” iThat peace and joy it
shall bear witness, because ye have be&r with ‘me fr6m the brought with it. And I well remember another time when I
betinning.” (John 15:26. 27.) In the ulentitude of the was worried with doubts and fears as to the possibility of
&&it’s power‘ given unto them,’ the apostle; prosecuted their the universal atonement being universally applied: and the
mission while they lived. Several of them sealed their tes- latter well nigh counteracted all the blessedness of the for-
timony with their own blood, and bequeathed it as their legacy mer. Now, thank God! both are plain, as plain and clear as
to their children in the faith. Since the last of the twelve fell anything relating to the future can be. This is an unfailing
asleep, up to the present hour, this testimony has been re- source of peace-and joy and I invite all, more especialli
peated with varying success; and we expect a similar reneti- those who have been harassed as I was, to share its blessed
tion of it up to the end of the preseni age. The que&ion assurance. On this position we seem to be most in unison
arises here. And what after that? Does this testimonv end with some of the grandest of old prophetic and apostolic
with the present age? We cannot believe it. Some t&l us utterances. “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are
that testimony is being given in the “intermediate state,” your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are
only they give us no evidence of its possibility; so we only higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways,
look to the resurrection state for the completion of this tes- and my thoughts than your thoughts.” “0 the depth of the
timonv. Ransom is for all men: that is “to be testified in riches, both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! how un-
due t;mes.” A very large proportion of mankind have died searchable are his judgments, and his way. past finding out I”
without hearing the testimony; they cannot hear it when they -Joseph hfofit.
are dead and therefore they will hear it after they are raised

MOSES WROTE OF CHRIST

“For had ye believed Moses ye would have believed me : for he wrote of me.“-.John 5 :A().
Moses as both writer and prophet has the endorsement of ing or ignoring the endorsement. They seem to see no con-
Christ and the apostles. It is doubtless true that Moses nection whatever between the gospel and Moses’ writings. For
wrote a large share of the Pentateuch,-the first five books of this reason the Jews rejerted Christ, though they trusted in
the Bible,-but we are nowhere told by any Bible writer that Moses, while these of our day reject Moses though claiming
he wrote all of them. Hence, it cannot be against either the to trust in Christ. Verses 45 and 46 make a clear distinc-
genuineness or authenticity of these books, because one of tion between trust and belief, and make the latter more im-
them contains a record of Moses’ death and burial, written, portant. To believe Moses, according to this statement of
of course, by some one else, after Moses died. Jesus, involved an intelligent view of the menning of his
It seems as applicable now as in the Saviour’s day that words. The Jews trusted in Moses and accepted the letter
the disbelievers in Moses are of necessity disbelievers in of his writings: but had they be&red Moses, that is. if they
Christ. To reject Moses after Christ has endorsed him, is had seen the spirit, or deeper meaning of his writing:: they
not characteristic of a believer in Christ, though there are would have accepted Christ.
those in our day who inconsistently reject Moses, overlook- This statement of onr ?;a\ iour is equivalent to saying that
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In the deeper sense Moses was a gospel writer. There is, it gospel was covered or veiled by the Old Testament writings.
may be safelv said. more eosnel in Genesis than in Matthew. The gospel was in the Old Testament as the kernel in a
In ihis Matthew is not b&&led. The full gospel covers all the shell; and no one can understand those writings and say
agee until the whole world is saved. This fullness of the gos- that Jesus is the Christ, but by the Holy Spirit.
pel w.~s grren in Genesis, in the sense that the undeveloped One who denies the authoritv of the New Testament writ-
seed contains all that can be produced from it. The fulfill- ings has no means of proving ihat Christ is the seed. They
ment of the gospel 1s like the process of development of what should, to be consistent, reckon the seed, the covenant, the
was before hidden in the seed. Matthew records the beginning circumcision and everything else on the ulane of the flesh,
of the fulfillment of the types and prophecies of the great for that is all that the Old Testament teaches. But if the
nlan of the sees. He tells an imnortant. and fundamental New Testament writings are discarded there is no nroof that
part : but stilrnot the whole which the seed contains. Christ has ever come, & that LIFE and IMMORTALITY~have ever
The depth of Moses’ writings, then,, is the cause of their been brought to light. The promises and threatening8 of th.e
modern rejection, as it was also the cause in part at least Old Testament are PUBELY of an EABTHLY and TEMPORAL
of the Jewish rejection of Christ. CHARACTER. Of course we refer to the letter of those writ-
The Jell 5 boasted of being Moses’ disciples, and yet their ings.
rgnorance was the ground of their inconsistency. The same The manner of the unbelief of the Jews was that of fail-
inronsistenrv exists now. Does it not have the same cause? ing to see the spirit of their sacred writings. To them the
It is better-doubtless to say inconsistency than guilt, as ig- truth was veiled. because of the veil unon their hearts. The
norance is guilt onlv to the extent that it mav be avoided. carnal or fleshly’state of mind is to the spiritual as the let-
and it is not best for mortals to judge the motives. Jesus ter of the word is to its spirit, because only the mind in
did not say they were guilty, though He spoke of their ig the spiritual state can discern the deep or spiritual
norance. their mconsistency, and their low moral state,-not things of the word. The more spiritual the degree of
having “the love of God” in them. His words were not in- mind the greater its ability to -understand the deep
tended so much to blame. though severe, as to reprove and things of God. “The natural man receiveth not the things of
enlighten, by showing their low condition. Verse 39 is not the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him; neither
a command to “Search the Scriptures,” as is commonly in- can he know them, for they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Cor.
ferred from this rendering. It was a statement of fact. de- 2: 14. The same thing is true of all writings that have a
signed to reprove them. Other versions read in substance thus: surface and a deeper meaning, whether in the Old Testament
“Ye search the scriotures. for in them ve think ve have eternal or in the New.
life, and they are t’hey that testify of”me and set ye will not ‘Light is sown for the righteous”; and the love of God
come to me that you might have life.” In the light of this shows itself in the love of truth and righteousness. Spiritual
statement their ignorance and consequent inconsistency of truth is the test of spirituality; and the truth of God is a
action were clearly reproved. mine in which may be- found j&.vels of all grades, adapted to
The moral state of the soul has much to do with the all degrees of spiritual development. and in which the most ad-
ability to receive truth, especially the deeper truth of the vanced may dcg with the a&ura&e of finding inexhaustihla
word. Jesus said, “If any man will do his will, he will know of treasures. “The letter killeth. but the snirit eiveth life” (2
the doctrine.” Then loyalty of heart is one of the conditions Cor. 3:6) is a statement by ‘Paul, show&g tee upward and
of clearness of perception and understanding. Truth not un- downward tendencies of feeding on the two phases of truth. He
derstood has no- saving or exalting effect. This makes stony draws a contrast on this principle between the law and
rrround hearers. There is no denth of earth. But Jesus savs. the gospel and between the letter and the snirit of the old
ihe good seed, sown “in good and honest hearts”’ brings fo& Testam&t writings, and shows that the bondage of the
fruit. Jew was in reading the Scriptures with veiled hearts. They
The mission of Jesus among the Jews was that of a Di- know what the word said, but its spirit was hidden from
vider and Reaper. He did not come among them to make them. “The same veil remains untaken away in the read-
proselvtes from the Gentiles, but to prove and develop the ing of the Old Testament. . . . . But when it shall
oualities of the good and honest among them. These He turn to the Lord the veil shall be taken away”: that is.
Galled His “sheep?‘-‘<My sheep hear my voice.” These ac- when the real truth, the gospel, in those writings is seen, it
cepted of Jesus because they were in such a moral state that will no longer annear dark, but it will brinn lieht and alor-
they could appreciate His teachings. The Divinity, the ious liberty. ‘%here the’ spirit of the cord- is theri is
Father, in Him had an attraction for them, and thus they liberty.” The effect of seeing and feeling the fullness of God’s
were drawn to Christ by the Father dwelling in Him; and love for all the world as seen in the Mosaic writings can only be
in John 6:44, Jesus asserts, what from this standpoint ap- beneficial in making the mind like the mind of God. May
pears a necessary fact, that no man can come to Him with- the Lord anoint your eyes that we may see and be free in-
out the drawing of the Father. How then can any person deed.
be drawn to Christ who rejects His divinity? It should be
observed that this was the-point at issue when Jesus made The above, clipped from an Exchange, we can most heartily
this statement. Jesus had just asserted that He “came endorse, but it is trulv amazing that the writer of the above
down from heaven ;” while the unbelievers declared him to cannot .go farther in ihe same-direction and see that Moses
be Joseph’s son. They used this as proof that He did not wrote of Jesus as the ransom for all. to be testified in due
(some down from heaven, as some are still doing. And Jesus time.
<:cld. “Murmur not among yourselves. No man can come to Moses wrote of the RANSOM in every sin-offering enjoined
me extent the Father which hath sent me draw him.” Thev the life of the beast which tvnifled the man Christ Jesus being
rejected’the divinity of .Jcsus for the same reason that the? givm’as a propitiation [sat”isfaction] for the sins of the pea’-
could not see him in Moses’ writings-the subject was too ple whose sins it bore, and to make atonement for which its
deen for them. Let us beware lest we fall after the same blood was shed.
manner of unbelief. (Heb. 4: 11.) Moses wrote of RANSOM when he told of how God clothed
The method by which Moses wrote of Christ was not di- the guilty pair, expelled naked from Eden, with coats of skins
rect statement, but was by figure, type and allegory. Even to cover their nakedness instead of their own scanty fig-leaf
in his most direct words he did not sa.y Christ, though that covering. Therein Moses told of the uselessness bf man’s
was what he meant. “Her seed shall bruise thy head,” which effort to cover himself with earments of righteousness that
all admit refers to Christ and his work, and is therefore would not endure and the need that God chould do it for
zosnel.-it will be observed is high1.v f&urative. When a him; nay more, of the fact that God would provide a covering
prophet like Moses was promised, it was ‘based upon a com- but at the cost of the LIFE OF ANOTHER.
narrson. and. but for later developments, none could have Moses wrote that the one who would “bless” all the fami-
applied’ it to the Lord Jesus. W ’hen the .promise was given lies of the earth must first redeem them with his own life, in
of blessing to all nations through Sbraham’s seed, the lan- that touching narrative of the offering of Isaac, in whom
guage was perhaps as direct as any; but no one could have centered the nromise, a sacrifice upon the altar.
yue+ed from the wording of the original promise that the Moses wro’te that the New Covenant must be ratified, made
“seed” meant Christ. In the letter it was Isaac, and in the onerative. sealed with the blood of the oovewnt. i. e.. bv
broadest literal sense included the fleshly descendants; but the death of him who ratified it, ‘by ratifying the tvpical
the Spirit in Paul takes the cover off and shows us that the covenant with blood representative of his ozon, as the Media-
cretl meant Christ, and in the broadest view includes them tor of that typical covenant and type of Jesus, the Mediator
that are baptized into Christ.-Gal. 3:16, 29. Though the Old of the New Covenant.
Testament did not say Christ, the New Testament shows Moses wrote not only of the value of the blood of the
that it meant Christ. \Vhat it meant was represented or Lamb of Passover but of the necessity that all who would be
typified lay what it said. In this way we see that the of the first-born spared, must be under that blood of sprink-
16921
NOVEMBER. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (7-8)

ling AS WELL as have the Lamb within. Thus he wrote that And Moses wrote further of Christ and the results of his
we must not only recognize Jesus as God’s spotless Lamb, ransom in the typical Jubilee year, for at that time, when
but must recognize the value of his death as our ransom the priest came forth from the sacrificial work of the Day of
price, and must sprinkle it outside-publicly declare the same. Atonement, he caused the trumpet to blow announcing the
Moses wrote of the ransom work of Jesus, and, in fact, JUBILEE begun-the times of BESTITU-HON of all things.
described his whole mission, in the types of the Day of Atone- And what unbiased mind can ignore the fact of a coming
ment. There he puts the sacrifice of Christ in the fore-front, restitution, if all “the promises and threatenings of the Old
and makes it the centre and basis of all the blessings Testament are purely of an EAETHLY character. All the
coming to the people, which he here shows to be the promises of the New Testament which mention anythsng more
fruitage, result or consequence of the ransom-sacrifice. The than blessings of earth and human nature, apply to and limit
blood (evidence of shed life, i. a, death) was sprinkled those super-abundant blessings to the “Seed” specially selected
unon the mercv-seat to make an atonement to God FOB the during this age to be the instruments made use of in blesszng
sins of the people. The penalty of man’s sin was death; all the families of the earth with the restitutioit (restoring to
hence the death of the animal t. tvnical
“Z of Jesus1 making a former condition or estate) of all things spoken by the
satisfaction for man’s sin. As a result of that gkng of hii mouth of all the holy prophets. And what unprejudiced
lzfe (typically) a ransom for all, the priest was granted the mind cannot see that this and this alone would be the work
right to go forth to the people who were lying in the dust of Christ as expressed in the declaration: He came to seek
and, pronouncing their sins cancelled, bid them arise from and to save (recover) that whach WAS LOST.
the dust and again enjoy communion with God.

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH

A sister writes us from New Hampshire that she cannot practices and the “REFOBMATIONMOVEMENT,’ set in, which
see why we speak of THE CHUBCH (Episcopal) as we do of has to some extent continued ever since, thank God. And
the other denominations. She says that theu also obiect to though the work has been slow, those who are today in the
“the sects.” She wonders why “we refer to THE C&JBCH work of reformation, are much closer to the doctrines, prac-
(Episcopal) creed as “shackles,” and assures us that they tices, and manners of the Apostles.
have only the “Apostles’ creed,,’ and that she finds every item Bear in mind that it was while Papish ideas and doc-
of it in our teachings. She feels indignant, too, that in a trines were still firmly fastened on men’s minds, that their
recent article we referred to THE CHUBOH (Episcopal) as consciences rebelled against some of the corruptions and
having been founded by Henry VIII, which idea, she says, brought about a partial Reformation. Hence the reformers
was long since abandoned by well-informed people as being had in general the same ideas and doctrines as the Mother,
an “exploded” statement.* and each claimed that there was but ONE Church and that
The sister shows that her interest in the truth and her THEIBS was that one; that Papacy was the corruption of the
perplexity on the Church question are real, throughout the true, and that in reiectina the corruption. thev [the Re-
entire communication, saying in conclusion: “I wish your pa- formers] became the originil. It is foi this reason and on
pers could be in the hands of every reading Christian, and these grounds that most of the older denominations claim
that they would read them.” And again, “You have come out that their beginning was in the APOSTLES’ DAYS; that Jesus
and are living as you think you have been called to live, and and the Apostles founded their Church [Episcopalian, Pres-
yet whom have you among you? Some very nearly as bad byterian, or Lutheran as the case may be], that it was cor-
as Judas, who deny the Lord that bought them, and this state rupted for a time in Papacy, but was brought to light again
of things is even worse than the first [sectarian condition] in the davs of the Reformation.
it seems to me, and your Church is no better than others in We se:, then, that the ideas above expressed by this sister
its mixture of good and bad. Can you not see reason for my that the Episcopal Church is THE Church, etc., is the same
perplexity?” claim made by other sister systems with equal force, for all
We answer these suggestions through the TOWEB,because it such claims are false. The Apostles neither established the
is quite possible that others are similarly troubled and per- Church of England, nor the Church of Scotland, nor that of
plexed, and the subject is a weighty one. Germanv. Thev. all,_ as well as that of Rome are human
Our objection to the Eniscopal Church is the same as to fabricat-k; each contains good and bad doctrines and forms
all the systems which to-day claim to be THE CHURCH. All of godliness; each claims to be THE CHUBCH,yet each in some
Christians will concede as a fact that there is but ONE Church respects opposes the true church whose names are written ws
of Christ. He and his Apostles established only one, hence it heaven, and the true doctrines of Scripture, putting a human
must be admitted that of all the organizations calling them- doctrine and system instead of the true. Thus each of these
selves the Church of Christ, not more than one can possibly human systems assists in perpetuating the schism, increasing
be claiming truly. If this .be so, it follows that ali except the confusion, and adding to the “perplexity” of truth seekers.
that one are deceived themselves and deceiving the world by The mistake was started, and is kept up by assuming that
claiming to be The Church, when they are not. the “Church of Rome” was THE true church before she became
Going back to the days of the Spostles, we find congre- so openly corrupt, prior to the “Reformation.” On the con-
gations at various cities, but all members of the one Church trary, the “Church of Rome,” as a system, was wrong from
of Christ, whose names were “WBITTEN IN HEAVEN.” Soon its commencement-contrary to the doctrines of Jesus and the
after the death of the Apostles various factions sprang up Apostles. It was the “Mystery of Iniquity” from the first,
headed by those who wished to be greatest. This spirit was and had in it, those errors which develoned into the more
noticed even during the days of Paul, some saying, “I am of ungodliness as time and opportunity peimitted. The sys-
Paul, and I of Apollos, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ,,’ tem was wrong; names written on earth attached to fixed
but this was promptly rebuked. (1 Cor. 1:12, 13.) Finally written creeds prepared by men and endorsed bv councils,
the Bishop of Rome came to be recognized by the other bish- are poor and improper subsiitutes for names writtei in heaven
ops as a superior in authority; and under the claim that and the Word of God unlimited bv man.
Peter had been the first bishop of Rome, and that his apos- The fact that there are true Ch&tians in all these denomi-
tolic succession gave his right, etc., to every successor, au- nations, and that there should be but ONE church, and that
thority and power was claimed and exercised over all then in some sense all these really belong to one church, though
recognized as “orthodox,,, though there were large parties of separated from each other by sectarian names, forms and
the Church which dissented both from this authoritv, and ruies, has long been recognized by thinking Christians. The
from many of the doctrines then termed “Orthodox.,,“’ question which thev find it imnossible
* to solve is: How to ac-
The Papal system came more and more into temporal cbmplish the union.
favor with the Empire of Rome, and under that favor it grew To reach this result “Union Meetings” and “Union Church”
and by its power it crushed out all formal opposition, and buildings have been attempted in small places, but sectish
for a time seemed about to restore the original idea of ONE pride and vainglory has always sooner or later hindered and
CHUBCH. But there were in Papacy honest minds, beclouded led to disruption. To accomplish the same result., The Evan-
by her great success, which only needed some good reason to gelical Alliance was formed, which while claiming to have
induce them to leave her fold. This occasion came, about the unified the sects, holding sound faith, is really a TBUCE be-
time Papacy’s greatest corruption-manifested in the sale tween the leadine Protestant sects bv which thev aeree not
of “induleences .” etc . Then some of the bolder of the more to war upon nor lgainst each other, but to unite ‘in opposing
enlightengd ones ventured to protest against her doctrines and any views which conflict with their main points of agree-
The sister is mistaken, the fact remains, so long as history remains,
l ment, and thus to establish a certain fixed unchangeable line
and cannot be “exploded.” It has, however, been very generally of doctrines, good and bad, true and false, outside of which,
“dropficd,” because those who might refer to it, find that their own
claims to bemg “the Church” are best supported by acknowledging the all is branded “heretic.” and inside which all is branded “or-
claims of “the Church of England.” thodox.” ’
r.6931
(8) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, Pa.

This is the same result sought and obtained by Papacy at clear as God’s word can make it? What more could we say?
the inception of its organization, though brought about in Getting you to join an institution of men, whose mem-
a different manner. The several sects, while each is per- bers’ names are written on earth and which is named after
nutted to manage its own affairs, are organized or bound into their heads and founders, was a snare and delusion by which
one system and stamped “Orthodoxy;” but in (Rev. 13: 14) the adversary has robbed you of the use of the liberty where-
it is called the very “image” of Papacy. This is a union on with Christ made you free, and as a consequence has kept
a false basis and hence is as far from the ONE CHURCH of Jesus from you, much of the grace and knowledge which, as the
and the apostles, as Papacy was in the days of her su- Lord’s freeman and the King’s son, were yours by right, both
premacy. to use yourself and to dispense to others.
No union will succeed, and be productive of good, and Hence, we have no space fenced off into which we invite
favorable to growth in grace and knowledge, except it be you but into the great field of truth marked and bounded and
accomplished in the proper manner and on a solid foundation; perfectly and harmoniously squared only by the word of
and the sooner this IS realized the better for the saints and God. If we can be of assistance in pointing out to you any
the worse for the great worldly tarefull systems which call of the boundary lines, or calling your attention to the boun-
themselves THE CHURCH of Christ. deceive the world and al- tiful provision for your rest, encouragement and comfort
IIIOS~ deceive the very elect. within those boundaries, it shall be our pleasure as well as
True union is not a bondage but a mingling of hearts and our duty as under-shepherds and servants of the fleck. Why
minds. To accomplish this organization, this union, is the cannot all come with us into this liberty and this untram-
work of the Spirit-of God, Where it rules there will be true meled enjoyment of all that our gracious and bountiful
fellowshiu with the Father and the Son and with all Dos- Father has provided? There is nothine to hinder extent sec.
sessing ii. The agency or means by which this union is-ac- tarian pride, begotten of the adversaruy and opposed ‘to the
complished is the truth-the Word of God. Spirit of Christ.
Because of the inseparable union between God’s Word and Some are held back from liberty and obedience to the
His Spirit, it is called “The Spirit of truth” and the only Lord’s call, “Come out of her,” by a system of false reasoning.
wav to uossess the full harmonv and union of the spirit is They reason thus, Surelv the ereat bulk of the nominal
by “posse’ssing a knowledge of th”e truth, hence Jesus prayed: church cannot be in erro;. I am at least safe while in the
“Sanctify them through thy truth, Thy word is truth.” (John company of so great a majority. This is another delusion
17:17.) of the adversary. It was used in the davs of Noah, Eliiah
This leads us to inquire, Is it not because of lack of knowl- and Jesus, as well as in the days of the “(partial) Reforma-
edge of the truth through neglect of the Word of God, and tion. The great size and influence of Babvlon misleads and
the abundance of error, consequent to giving heed to the tra- causes many to forget that, though “All men shall be saved
ditions of the ancients and to the various theories framed [from the Adamic penalty] and come to a knowledge of the
after and like unto those established b-v the mother or har- truth” ( 1 Tim. 2:4), and though “a great company” shall
lots that Christians today find it imp&sible to unite head reach spiritual conditions (Rev. 7 :9), yet only a “little
and heart as well as hands in the common cause 1 flock” of “overcomers” will be accounted worthy to share the
This beine conceded, it becomes the duty of the hour for “divine nature” by becoming the bride of Christ, joint-heir
every saint t’b not only cast entirely aside every human yoke with him to the kmgdom.
of bondaee. and stand free indeed, (Gal. 5:1,) but to assist Ho not forget that it was to give us the ouoortunitv of
other sai”nts to the same blessed liberty. When thus liberated overcoming, t&t God has permit& this great l%bylon, inti-
from sectarian bondage, the spirit of truth will be able to Christ system, to gain such influence in the world. The over-
lead into all truth: and such only are able to follow. Would coming of the beast and his image is specially mentioned as
not the union of heart at once -bind all these “free” ones? among the needful qualifications to a share in the Millennial
And would not the union of head under the “guide” of the reign. (Rev. 20:4). Let us not deceive ourselves. God will
Spirit of truth, soon be perfect? And would not union of nev’er tail those ov&comers, nor reward them as such, who, in
labor be a natural accompaniment? We answer, yes ! So spite of his light and truth, “are all their lifetime subject
surely as we comply with the conditions, we shall have the to bondage,” even though he shall eventuallv “deliver” them.
result follow, as promised by the Lord:-“That they all may by the c&plete overthrow of Babylon as i great millstone
be one.” and then the result of this will be also as he ex- cast into the depths of the sea. (Heb. 2 : 15 and Rev. 18 :21) .
pressed it, “That the wor2d may believe.” (John 17:11, 21.) Now is the time to overcome. Now is the time when your
If then it is seen that all the present systems are improp- influence will tell most on the side of truth. Soon the Elect
erly named “Churches,” improperly organized, improperly Church, the Bride, the Lamb’s wife, will be complete, so if
bound together, and have improperly built upon the decisions you are a candidate and are running for that prize, “take
of fallible and mistaken men, and are thus hindred from heed that no man take thy crown.” (Rev. 3 : 11) .
growth in grace and knowledge, and that these systems are In reply to the suggestion that our Church is corrupt and
not recognized by God at all, and never alluded to in His full of false doctrines, even denying that the Lord bought us,
Word except to condemn them, then, duty is plain. “Come we only remind you that such are not “OF THIS WAY.” If they
out of her my people,” will not be disregarded by those anx- ever were of us, they “have gone out from us.” The true
iously seeking guidance and cannot be disregarded without Church, as God recognizes it, hoes not include any but the
loss in knowledge as well as in favor of God. His sheep hear redeemed: and if anv such nut off the “wedding garment” of
his voice and follow Him, and He leads them to green pas- Christ’s imputed righteous&as, such are cast fo% into dark-
tures. ness. (Matt. 22:11-14).
One trouble which seems to beset many is this, They have That some whose names were once “written in heaven”
become so accustomed to a fixed doctrinal fence of narrow as members of the Church of Christ can lose membership in
limits on every side, that to place them in the green pastures OUR Church-the Church of Christ. and have their names
of truth with its wide range of liberty, bounded only by the “blotted out,” is evident from the following, as well as other
great fence of God’s Word; alarms them, and they ‘fea; lest Scriptures, viz. : Rev. 3:5 and 11, Heb. 6:6 and 10:29-31.
thev should eet lost with such libertv. Thev have heard that Thus it is clear that the true Church is kept pure by the
infidels roam-in a large field withouc any fehce whatever, and great Head of the Church himself blotting out the names of
fear lest they should be getting into that 5eld. Some have any who may fall away and count the blood of the covenant
written to us saving that they see the error of and hindrance wherewith they were sanctified a common thing.
from union with s&terns misnamed THE CHURCH of Christ As a proof-that the Church now, as at first; is kept pure
and desire to come into the liberty, grace and knowledge of bv the Lord, and that those referred to bv this corresnondent
a larger place, but are at a loss to know what to join when are not of us, we refer you to a similar”departure frbm the
they withdraw from present membership. faith recorded in 1 John 2: 19. “They went out from us, but
Ah ! how the adversary would blind us to keep us from they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would
light and liberty! Can you not see that you, if really a no doubt have continued with us: but they went out that
consecrated child of God. have alreadv ioined the true Church? they might be made manifest, that they were not all of us.”
You joined it when you made full co>secration to the Lord. “IF you wish to do good, do good, if you wish to assist peo-
It was then that your name was “written in heaven” in the ple assist people; the only way to learn to do a thing is to
“book of life.” You were then a member of the true Church, do it; and that implies, before you learn to do right you will
the true ecclesia, the body of Christ, of which Jesus is the only do wrong. You will make blunders, you will have failures;
head, the true flock of which Jesus is the great Chief Shep- but persevere, and in the end you will learn your lessons,
herd. Can you not realize this? JR this not as plain and and many other lessons by the way.”

COMMUNION wltlt God must ever hold a higher place than service for God. Do we realize it?
C6941
VOL. VI PITTSBURGH, PA., DECEMBER, 1884 No. 4

VIEW FROM THE TOWER

It is a common proverb, and one very generally acted upon a Pan-Presbyterian Council, but a supreme effort should bc
today, that, “In union there is strength.” Both the Church made, through the leaders of that body, to convince the world
and the world accept the maxim as correct; hence we find men of the ‘real and effective oneness’ of Presbyterians throughout
binding themselves together in various unions, both social the world.
and religious. “Accordingly a call was issued. And the first Pan-Presby-
From some standpoints the idea certainly is correct. How terian meeting was held in Edinburgh in July, 1875; a second
could labor resist the encroachments of capital, or capital in Philadelphia, September, 1880; and the third, and quite
protect its interests, without their respective unions? How likelv the last, was onened in the citv of Belfast, Ireland, on
else could Free Masonry and similar institutions have gained the “2nd of July pa&. We have been reading ‘lately Gome
present power and influence? How could kingdoms maintain very unfavorable criticisms of this Belfast Pan-Presbyterian
their authority and dominion? How could the churches, both Council made by Presbyterians themselves. A paper nns
Papal and Protestant, have gained or retained their mighty read before the United Presbvterian Ministerial Association of
power, influence and authority, had they not each fortified Philadelphia on the Belfast meeting by the Rev. Mr. Dales,
themselves by a union of hands? from which we make some extracts.
Looking out upon these great civil, social and religious “The Rev. Dr. Dales writes:
organizations, all must acknowledge that through their respec- “‘In looking, however, at the late meeting as we may
tive unions great strength has been secured. And the strength now after the pleasurable excitements and varied entertain-
of each great party has helped to keep the other at bay. In ing, social and other interesting things connected with it are
other words, one uplifted arm of flesh has served to protect over, some matters may be noted which may be considered
itself against another arm of flesh, as well as to exchange as grounds of a prehension in regard to it and the whole
blows in’ the struggle for existence. And so the world today system of Councl -Ps as this one and its predecessors generally
which has been bandina its forces for centuries, and with have been conducted-apprehension as to whether any real
increased energy during-the last century, stands organized in and lasting good may be expected to flow from them-and
companies of millions on opposite sides of almost every ques- apprehension also as to the desirableness, or possibly even
tion of general interest. the nronrietv. of their beinn continued.
And what does it mean * Where shall it end? When “*The fr&dom and boldcess with which, as at the meet-
each great band having united its forces, feeling sure that ing in Philadelphia and possibly in Belfast, speculative views
in its union there would be strength, now turns to look upon at least were advanced to insniration. the claims or nreten-
the equivalent strength of its opponent, the outlook is truly sions of science, ritualism and-other topics, and which’ could
annalllmr from every standpoint. and men benin to fear if not be anatagonized or properly controverted at the time or
after all, these unions have given them suffi<ient strength in the place, lest there might be developed some unseemly
to withstand the approaching conflict, now so manifest to scene of difference, and, what the outside world might say, of
every reasoning mind. strife among brethren of the same name. Thus more or less
While we have remsrked the expressions and indications of of serious error might go uncorrected and unrebuked.’
peaceful apprehension on the part of the great civil organiza- “Just so. There are most serious grounds of apprehension
tions, we also note the same indications on the part of romin- in the Presbyterian case, as well as in the Anglican and
ent exponents of the great religious system. Whr *Pe each Methodist instances, of anv ‘real and last& aood’ likelv to
secretly trembles for its own safety, yet outwardly boasts of flow from such meetings. ” The elements are 100 discordant
its security, they note and delight to point out the elements to be harmonized. And this critic aoes on to sav that ‘there
of disintegration at work in each other. has been an unsatisfactory, and peThaps omino&, indefinite-
As evidence of this we quote the following from The Cuth- ness and uncertainty in those councils from the beginning.’
olic of Nov. 15th: From all this we gather that Presbyterians themselves do
not believe in the utility or advantages to be derived from
“PAN-PRESBYTERIAN AND OTHER PROTESTANT the holding of Pan-Presbyterian Councils; that the esperi-
UOUNC!ILS
ment is a dismal failure; and this for the simple reason:
“With Dr. McCosh, of Princeton, we believe, originated that “unless the Lord build the house, the labor of the build-
the idea of a Pan-Presbyterian Council. The Church of Eng- ers is in vain.” The Protestant fabric the Heavenly Builder
land people went through the form of holding a Pan-Anglican certainly did not contemplate when he laid the foundations
Convocation some few years ago in London. The Methodists of the Christian Church.”
at once followed the example set them by their Episcopalian Thus the “Mother Church” points out to her wavward
friends, and attempted to gather together the representatives daughters the error of their co&se in following the p&iple
of Methodism from every land where ‘the gospel,’ as ex- for which they parted company with her, viz.: the right of
pounded by Wesley and his followers, had been preached, into private judgment in the interpretation of the Scriptures.
a Pan-Methodist Conference. This Pan-Methodist Council And in their confusion they are beginning to heed her
was to be a wonderful affair; Methodism was a young, grow- counsel, and by degrees are looking for the old paths-not
ing and intensely active religious organization; it reckoned the old paths marked by the steppings of Jesus and the
its followers by the tens of thousands; it had made serious Apostles, but for the paths of the great apostate church of
inroads, both in England and the United States, unon the Rome.
older and established-forms of Protestantism; hence; much was As evidence of this, mark the spirit of intolerance which
expected from the Pan-Methodist Conference that assembled in increasingly prevails throughout Protestantism : the authoritr
London a few years since. But it was the old story of Protes- with whi% t-hey attempt n’;w to silence private judgment, for
tantism retold. Instead of union and harmony prevailing in which rinht thev once contended: the emnhasia with which
the councils of the Methodist bode, there was a singular reve- they command their people to ((stop thinking and go to work”.
lation of the lack of both those”qualities so esseniial to the the effort to bind the people by fear. and to lead them to
welfare and stabilitv of the organization. There was no au- render undue reverence to men of like passions :rnd frailties,
thoritative declaration on those?mportant subjects of doctrine who have assumed the right to lord it over Cod’s heritage: and
and polity which had split Methodism into different and the indulgence they offer to men of the world who will ad-
contending sects. In a word, the Pan-Methodist Conference. vance their financial interests. Like Catholicism, they point
like the Pan-Anglican Convocations, was a signal failure. It to their age, their established clergy, trained and educated
did not impress anyone, it may be questioned if it did Metho- for their service, and their dignified presumption, as evidence
dists themselves, with the notion that the Wesleyan system of their divine authority.
was an improvement upon those forms of Protestant belief In keeping with this growing disposition to admire and
which it had supplanted in many quarters. imitate the “Mother Church,” was the nronosition entertaiued
“The idea of a Pan-Presbyterian Council was next taken in the “Protestant Episcopal Congress” recently held in De-
up at the instigation of the President of Princeton, the able troit. Mich.. to establish Auricular Confession.
and learned Dr. McCosh. No sooner was the proposition put WC append the following from the Detroit Evening Ntvts.
forward of holding a Pan-Presbyterian meeting, than it was showing the favor with which the motion was received and
hailed with a “remarkable unanimity and with almost uni- entertained :
versal interest and joy” by the Calvinistic Churches. What “It must have been a little startling to the mn jnritv of
a pleasing spectacle it would be to see the divided followers Protestants hereabouts, to discover the almost umlnin~itr with
of Calvin and Knox coming together and holding mutual in- which the clergy of the Episcopal Church Con:rcas fivored
tercourse and counsel upon their common standards of faith ! Auricular Confession. Indeed. nlnmst tlic only :rrpumcnts
Outsiders might be somewhat skeptical as to the possibility of urged against it were those of expedienry and pmcticnhility.
C6951 (1)
(l-3) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

Its philosophical basis was heartily approved, and its scri “We have before us at this moment a religious journal,
tural authority conceded. The Latin clergy themselves cou P-d the flabbath SentineZ, which in its leading editorial warns the
hardly have spoken more eloquently of the benefits of the Church against the tendency. The rich men within the Church,
practice than did the reverend gentlemen who appeared as its who have taken shelter there against public condemnation of
advocates in the Episcopal Congress.” their crimes of extortion, are ready at any time for the union
These and similar indications, manifest to every thought- -more than ready. They would do with their taxes to the
ful mind, show the tendency of human schemes. Men were Church as they have done with their taxes to the State: frame
beginning to think they had built the tower of Babylon high ii; ilaw; in such a way that the poor shall be forced to pay
enoueh to reach unto heaven. but. lo! the confusion of tongues! . Every one of the causes which produced the union
the discord among the builders!’ they cannot understand-each of Church and State in Europe, exists either in full bloom or
other, and the various sections of the vast condemned struc- in embryo in this country; and here, as there, ‘if something is
ture are disintegrating, settling, falling. As an evidence that not speedily done, the so-called Christian Church will drive
this is beginning to be realized, we quote the following from Christianity from the land.’ Again we say, with the Bishop,
the Chicaao Exm-ess which is Dart of an article written by ‘Let the Church of God come out from the world; let it be
Bishop F&ter, ‘of the Methodist Church. While traveling made of followers and discinles of Christ: let it renresent rieht-
in Europe, he took occasion to speak of those forms of wor- eousness and truth; let it ‘cut loose from false aid entangEng
shin there which are sunported bv law, and the aots that led alliances: let its nriests be clothed with salvation. and its
to ‘such a state of things.. He says:- citizens be a holy*communion; let it demonstrate its divine
‘That there is but little real. vital nersonal relieion in lineage,-let this be the watch-cry of Zion, and then it will
these lands, is among the most natent f&ts. . . . . i know be a power in the earth, and will silence the taunt of its ene-
of nothing .more sad-than the r&gioua condition of Europe, mies.’ ”
and the saddest vart of it is that it is charaeable to the Church What then shall we conclude? Is there to be no union
itself, and there’fore the more hopeless. ‘if something is not among Christians-shall brother forever stand divided against
speedily done, the so-called Christian Church will drive Chris- brother? Shall truth forever be so vaguely comprehended that
tranity from these ancient lands, if not from the whole world.” God’s children may not have full confidence in it? Is there
In speaking of the primary causes which lead to this no common bond of union4
state of things, he says:- Yes, assuredly there is a common bond of union-the spirit
“Did Constantine make the Roman mind Christian by abol- of truth promised-which is able, through the exercise of our
ishing paganism, and proclaiming the religion of the cross in free unbiased judgment in the study of God’s word, to lead ua
its stead? and did creating the constituted Roman nation into into all truth, in its due season. And all thus led are united
a church, make the nation a Christian church? or did he not to each other and to Christ, the great invisible head of the
rather paganize Christianity?” church. And in that union there is strength, which no oppos-
Speaking still further of the present state of things, he ing forces can withstand, and before which all must fall.
says :- Therefore, you who thus stand united to Christ, though
“By a false theory, the Church has been taken from the you may stand alone among men, be of good cheer, contend
people, and converted into a priestly and political machine, nobly for the faith once delivered to the saints, though alone
and has ceased to be a Church of Christ, as much as the papal you contest against a host. Greater is he that is for us than
machine at Rome. . . . This condition of things is the sad in- all they that be against us. Babylon’s massive walls dhall
heritance of the union of Church and State.” - crumble into dust, but the mountain (kingdom) of the Lord’s
The editor of the Egress in calling attention to the state- house shall be established. Isa. 2: 2.
ments of the Bishop, says:- As an example of a strong church system or union, Papacy
“The Church in America has also very largely become a is head and shoulders above all others. Her nrincinle of
political machine, and has been used as a means of raising a teaching the infallibility of decrees of Popes and l&ho Is, and
campaign fund to retain and maintain the party in power, the utter ignorance of truth and subservience in all ot K ers, is
and return men to office, who have betrayed the people, and the tried and most approved method of having union in error.
sold them to the giant corporations of the land. . . . How Cecause of this, Papacy will probably survive the shock of the
long, we would ask of Bishop Foster, does he imagine it will coming storm longer than any other section of Babylon. For
be before the Church in America, like the Church of Europe, the same reason limited monarchies will probablv fall sooner
will be forced to seek an alliance with the State in order to than absolute monarchies in the same conflict bitween truth
sustain itself! because of the. indifference of the people, who and error. Yet truth is mighty and shall prevail.
perceive its iniquitous practmes, and scoff at its pretended That union will be lasting, which is based upon the liber-
Christianity? Already a union of the two is a thing openly ties and restraints provided in the Word of God, and which
spoken of as desirable. recognizes it as the only infallible teaching.

GROANING CREATION
Across the sea I heard the groan I know the pent fire heaves its crust,
Of nations in the interval8 That sultry skies the bolt will form
Of wind and wave. Their blood and bones To smite them clear; that Nature must
Cried out in torture! crushed by thrones, The balance of her powers adjust,
And sucked by prrestly cannibals. Though with the earthquake and the storm.
I dreamed of freedom slowly gained God reigns, and let the earth rejoice!
By martyr meekness, atience, faith, I bow before His sterner plan.
And lo! an athlete grim Py stained, Dumb are the organs of my choice;
With corded muscles battle-strained He speaks in battle’s stormy voice,
Shouting it from the fields of death. His praise is in the wrath of man.
I turn me, awe-struck, from the sight Yet, surely as He lives, the day
Among the clamoring thousands mute. Of years He promised shall be OUTS,
I only know that God is right, To fold the flags of war, and lay
And that the children of the light Its sword and spear to rust away,
Shall tread the darkness under foot. And sow its ghastly fields with flowers.

SPIRITS IN PRISON
[This article with the exception of the aragraphs below was reprinted in article entitled “Angels Kept Not their First Estate”
pub 7.mhed in issue of July 15, 1894, which please see.]

A clear distinction should be borne in mind, as between prior to man’s fall, and was man’s tempter. With reference
Satan and these angels. Satan evidently sinned against great to Satan nothing is stated in Scripture to indicate a future
lipht, so that infinite wisdom finds no place to do more for trial; but, to the contrary, it is expressly stated that he is
him. His was not a temptation to sin from bad example in to be “destroyed.” Heb. 2:14; Rom. 18:20; Rev. 2O:lO.
others, as was the case with the “‘angels who sinned” in Here we start the inquiry: Is it possible that there
the days of Noah, being led in to evil by their contact with may be probation for these spirits in prison who were formerly
fallen man; for Satan is the father of lies and was a sinner disobedient in the day of Noah, being led into sin through
[6961
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER
man’s bad example? We answer that God’s loving care over nine-tenths of humanity will be everlastingly tormented,
and for man, while we were yet sinners, and his impartiality, proves that to be so. The fact is we find Satan, who taught
would lead us to hope that he might as well have some men to thus blaspheme God’s character through misrepreien-
provision for the spirits imprisoned alive, as for mankind tations of his plans, was the master and chief over these
imnrisoned in death. Thouah because of the different Den- cast-down spirits ; and evidently he had misrepresented Je-
al&s upon the two classes -the means of recovery may-not hovah’s plans to the imprisoned spirits as he has to men.
necessarily be the same in all particulars: for instance, these He is the father of lies.
angels not being condemned to death, need not be redeemed The second text (Matt. 25~41) , mentions ‘everlasting
from death. fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.” This cannot be
If those angels which sinned are to have a future trial- used as an argument against a hope for a probation for the
during the day or age of judgment [or trial], which is imprisoned spirits, for though by force of circumstances and
expressly stated, it follows that there is hope for them. If restraints from anv other service. thev are now Satan’s angels
”

then, under the able instruction and assistance of the glori- -messengers or servants-yet tiey hay not always be ~6~11.
fied church, they forsake sin and lay hold upon righteousness, if an opportunity were granted for them to return to God’s
they shall be accounted worthy of everlasting life and hap- service and be angels of God. This nassaae relates to the
piness. “lake of fire,” or”destruction, into Which,- at the close of
Since we find no Scripture statement contradictory of this, the Millennial age, all are to be cast, who are out of
no statement telling of their destruction, we have reasonable harmony with God. Satan will be of those cast into that
ground of hope for them, and may search further for Scrip- everlasting destruction, and with him all who do unright-
ture statements favoring that hope? eousness or have pleasure therein-all of whom, spirits or
We 5nd but two statements apparentlv contradictory; men, are reckoned to be on his side, his angels or. m-msengers
The first reads: “Art thou come g destroy us?” (Mail; -evil doers, shall be cut off from life. To cut off such and
1:24: Luke 4:34: Matt. 8:29). This shows that these im- such only, was God’s plan from the beginning. The WiZfiLlly
prisoned spirits hid in mind ciestruction as their final doom, wicked and not the merely ignorant, misled, blinded 01
but it no-more proves that their suppositions were correct, deceived are meant when it is said, “All the wicked will
than the fact that the so-called “Orthodox” believe that God destroy.”

THE PROBATION OF ANGELS

[This article was reprinted in issue of July 15, 1894, which please see.]

GOD’S COMPREHENSIVE LAW

[This article was reprinted in issue of July 15, 1894, which please see.]

DIVERSIFIED WISDOM OF GOD

[This article was reprinted in issue of July 15, 1894, which please see.]

SHALL NEVER DIE

[This article was reprinted in issue of October, 1888, and reprinted and revised in issue of July, 1890, which please see.]

EXTRACTS FROM INTERESTING LETTERS

Firgznia. The Church was next called together by my brother
DEAR BBOTHEB RUSSELL:-As I know you must receive Elders to put a stop to this business. We complied with
and answer many letters, I thought best not to trouble you the summons and when arraigned we stated 06 position
unless I had somewhat to write. For the last sixteen years as Dlainlv and simDlv as we could, and then asked them
I have been an elder in the Christian Church here. About to irove ;s guilty b’efbre they conde&ed us. Finding them-
three years ago, seemingly providentially, my attention was selves powerless to act, they deferred the case until the
called to a paper published by you, in which you clearly fourth Sundav in June, at which time we are told we will
set forth the plan of God. I read it carefully and tried it be tried by “six Disciple preachers. In the meantime the
by the only infallible rule, and have found it as far as I communitv was called toeether at the Discinles Church to
am able to decide, equal to the measure, and none have been hear the “Baptist preacher”preach our funeral and bury our
able to prove the contrary. These truths have done my soul doctrine beyond the power of a resurrection. The decision,
good. They seem to ha;e become a part of my behg. I so far as I have been able to learn is, that there is danger
have circulated them amone all who would receive them, in preaching live men’s funerals. He proceeded first, by throw-
and today I find myself zanding with a little flock oi ing a stone at my character; second, by reading from a secular
about fourteen, who are not ashamed to own their Lord paper the horrible crimes and the dreadful threats attributed
nor to defend his cause, maintain the honor of his Word, to the Nihilists, Socialists and Communists, and tried to
the glory of his cross. fasten them with an iron bolt of slander to what he wab
A few months ago some of them proposed to withdraw pleased to call Russellism, and as a result of their teaching;
from the Church. I advised not, inasmuch as our brethren, third, he found it more easy to misstate and misrepresent
the Disci les, had neither name br creed to which we could our position than to make th;! least attempt to prove it false
obiect. 8 ut as thev claim the Bible. the whole Bible. and When he closed. he found we were readv to heln him Drove
noihing but the B&e as their creed, it is our duty to speak false all he had attempted to prove false! and ‘it onl> re-
the truth with boldness, and if they object let them act mained for us to restate our position, fortify it with Scrip-
accordingly. I made an appointment to speak on the sub- ture, and ask him to prove that false, before he condemned
iect of the ransom, but owing to sickness I could not at- it. Now, Brother Russell, a man may slander my character,
tend. A large crowd met to -hear myself and brethren of but he shall not slander the truth of God and go entirely
like faith denounced as heretics and disturbers of the Deace without rebuke.
of the community. On the following Sunday we renewed Am I correct when I assert that you have never in any
our appointment and filled it; but the opposing brethren of your writings alluded to the crimes committed by So-
engaged the resident Baptist preacher to meet me and re- cialists, Communists, and Nihilists in any other light than
ply. The fire was kindled; the next Sunday we met to that they are the works of Satan and the result of his un-
search the Scriptures to see if these things were so. The righteous reign, save that you refer to them as an un-
Baptist preacher was present, and the search did not lead mistakable DroDhetic sign, of the nresence of the hearenlv
in *the right direction ‘for one who had been preaching the king? l’leaie &ate in & next iss& of the TOWER, that ail
immortality of the soul and eternal torment for forty who desire to know may know how to render under unto C:P~~I
years, therefore he objected to the results, but failed to offer the things that are Caesar’s (though he may be nsbamt~d of
any proof, though we gave him an opportunity. them) and to God the things that are God%.
C6971
(34) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH, PA.

Now Brother, I have a request to make of you-Although to life God had given mankind, and brought the actual literal
the truth has suffered no loss in all the fiery trials through death, no matter how many figurative deaths may be con-
which it has passed, but has come out pure and brighter, and ceived of as attending it. By one man’s disobedience death
W C have been made stronger in each attack thus far, and passed upon all, in that all partook of his imperfection and
whrle we are sure that the Lion of the tribe of Judah being sin. (Rom. 5: 12.)
present will defend his cause, yet we are compelled to look Christ Jesus (by the favor of God) gave himself a ran-
upon the fourth Sunday as a time of much interest to the som for ALL, ( 1 Tim. 2 :6,) so that as through Adam’s dis-
csuse of truth in this community, and knowing that those obedience, all were condemned to death, so through Christ’s
six preachers before whom our brethren would like to have obedience unto DEATH all are redeemed, all are justified to
us tried (though they have another object in coming) are have life.
all college students, and as I have not had the benefit even The only condition upon which any may ever have ever-
of a common school, I would like you to advise us as to the lasting life, is obedient faith-faith in Christ’s work as Re-
best course to nursue: and if vou think best state for us our deemer, and obedience to God’s law which his redemption
position as clehrly, strongly, -and simply, as possible, that and aid will make possible to all. Hence to be saved through
we may compel them to prove us guilty of violating their Christ, each human being must hear in the sense of under-
creed (the Bible) before they condemn us; for from what standing or appreciating perfectly God’s plan, and his respon-
you have already shown us, we have full confidence in you sibility toward it. And hence, also, unless all thus “hear”
and will follow as closely as the occasron will allow, any (John 5:25), all would not receive the benefit which Christ
advrce you may think proper to give. died to secure for them. And this God guarantees shall not be.
Your brother in Christ, Since many who occasionally see a Bible or hear a church
In reply:- bell are blinded and bound by “the god of this world”-
DE-O BROTHER:-Yours of June 1 came duly and gave us Satan, so that they cannot hear and s& (understand or ap-
much pleasure, as it always does. to hear of the spread of preciate) the truth, it follows that unless there be a future
the truth and the blessing of the Lord’s children with the age in God’s plan in which Satan’s power to deceive will be
liberty and joy which the truth affords. restrained, and the knowledge of the Lord caused to fill the
I am alad to see that you and the brethren with you. so whole earth, the ransom secured by Jesus will never be
fully appreciate the truth, and that for the time you have co-extensive ‘with the evil and condemnation upon all through
enjoyed it, you have been so strengthened and faithful as to Adam’s fall.
be able to take the bold, firm stand vour letter outlines. But God’s Word declares that Christ’s sacrifice was the
Your position is a correct one, in” my judgment. The so- full equivalent of Adam’s sin, and that the blessings flow
called Bantist and Christian denominations claim the Bible ing from his obedience will be co-extensive with the evil flow-
as the o& standard of faith and practice, and in by-gone ing from Adam’s disobedience. It recognizes the necessity
years laid-great stress upon this in their. discussions with of another age to come, and promises that the Redeemer shall
other denominations. But the snirit of the world has crowded reign and bless all, and fill the earth with knowledge and
down their simplicity and spirit’ of Bible study about as with bind the deceiver. Thus God’s plan provides eveiy condi-
others today. It is now a freedom of name more than any- tion necessary to the saving of all-knowledge and ability
thing else, I think. -and declares not only that Jesus gave himself a ransom
Your faithfulness in not keeping your light under a bushel for all, but also that it shall be testified in due time.-
is bringing some of them face to face with the truth and 1 Tim. 2 :6. The Scriptures never intimate that the Gospel
with their claim to the Bible as their only creed. The re- age is the due time for the world to hear, and be blessed by
sponsibility is thus upon them. Let us hope that the meet- Christ. They teach that now only a “little flock” is sought
ing for the examination of your views may be marked by by the Lord, and these are promised explicitly that they, as
candor and honesty on their part, with a sincere desire to the Bride of Christ, or the members of his body, shall reign
ascertain from a Bible standpoint what is truth. Let me on the earth to bless all the families of the earth. And in the
suggest that, so far as possible, you allow this view of the last revelation of God’s plan, given by our Lord Jesus him-
matter to control your feelings toward them, and your utter- self, he points us in symbol to the new order of affairs, and
ances. A danger -under such circumstances is to feel that tells us that there and then, the Spirit and the Bride-the
it is a battle. Should thev treat it thus, let vour words be Church-shall say, “Come! and that whosover will, may
seasoned with grace. (Co11 4:6.) Let the spirit of the glori- come” and partake of life as of a fountain of water, and by
ous truths you now see, so fill your heart that out of its obedience live forever.
fullness your mouths may speak to the Lord’s praise, and For six thousand years God has .yrmitted evil to reign
to the enlightenment and profit of your opposers as well and triumph ; in the seventh, he wr 1 grve power and do-
as the hearers. minion to Christ and the Church as his own representatives
It would not be well that I should attempt to give you in the earth, to cleanse and bless all, and bring all, or as
details. These must he found at the time, and must de- many as will, into perfect harmony with himself, whom to
pend somewhat upon the course of your opposers. While thus know will be life eternal. The basis of this plan is
preparing, as much as possible, by studying the subject and the sacrifice of Jesus Chrfst our Lord, begun at his con-
arranging plans of thought, for it is our duty to have the secration at baptism in Jordan, and completed on Calvarv.
sword of the Snirit-the Word of God. which is able to make Regarding Anarchism: No well-balanced mind could f&or
us wise-well i’n hand, so that we shall be able to give to him it, or conceive it an advantage to any class. Nevertheless
:hat asketh us a reason for the hopes that are-within us, God’s Word clearly reveals the fact that this extreme of
yet back of all this, our strength and confidence should be evil will be the means by which present empires will fall.
rn him who declares, “I will never leave thee nor forsake Hence these will, in a measure, be God’s instrumentality, even
thee.” The TRUTII is his and ou are his-his ambassadors. as he has often caused to wrath of man, as well as of &tan.
He will give you a mouth an B wisdom which none of your to work out his plans. Another side of the question would
adversaries shall be able to gainsay or resist. (Luke 21: 15.) show that there is a measure of right on the part of Labor.
I will venture ‘a brief outline of the ground of our belief the ignoring of which is leading on to Anarchism. But this
and confidence, which we believe gives %bsolutely no room we must leave for a fuller consideration at another time.
for opposers of our faith to stand upon. They must either Iowa.
reject the Bible or accept its truth, or else evade the issue DEAR FRIENDS: In a recent TOWER we notice your method
by sophistry, cutting short further Bible investigation. for distributing the German tracts. We are willing to do
Protestant denominations generally still hold, at least in all we can for the spread of the “glad tidings,” happy if we
theorv. to the Bible doctrine of the fall and condemnation
” , can help in the great work, but how to go to work we hardly
of the entire race through the sin of their representative knew-this being a large town, and with many churches. We
Adam and the redemption of all through the obedience and went to one German minister to find the number, but nat-
sacrifice of Christ. In this we rejoice, for while they cling urally he wanted to read the work before having it distrib-
to this sure foundation, there is-good basis for sciipturai uted. Now would it be right to distribute them at church
reasoning; and for hope that they may he led into further doors without permission? and if we ask permission, will they
and fuller truth. That the remedy will be co-extensive in not invariably want to read it first? and if they read it, will
Its results with the evil is clearly stated in 1 Cor. 15:22,- they not refuse 4
“As through Adam all die, even so through Christ shall all Please tell us what is right. It seems as though we were
be made alive.” greatly hindered in doing any work in this way. Perhaps
Adam’s one representative disobedience, brought the con- we yield to hindrances too easily. Pray for us that we may
demnatron of God upon all. That condemnation was not to be upheld in this trying hour, only in the strength of the
torment, but to DEATH. (Gen. 2:17.) Sin forfeited the right Lord can we stand.
16981
DECEMBER. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (4)

Spiritism is at work in our nei hborhood. One of my the truth to such of them as the “god of this world” has
friends has turned that way, and s k e fain would have me not blinded with prejudice and traditions (2 Cor. 4:3, 4))
go too, but I thank God that it has been made clear to me and you are God’s messengers or ministers when thus serv-
from whence this Dower is. Therefore I have had streneth ing him. His permission and approval alone we should ex-
to resist it as will as to whisper a word of warning”to pect. We live, thank God, in a land where we have the
others that perhaps would have been taken in the snare. right-the liberty-to give to the people in their hands,
Yours, in hope of eternal life. food which they cannot get of the professed pulpits and
-- oracles of truth.
In reply:-We are glad of your zeal for the cause of We suggest, then, that by visiting the various German
truth. Persevere, God will bless and help you, though Protestant churches you could judge of the attendance. And,
the adversary may seek to hinder and discourage at every that when ready and supplied with the reading matter
step. God’s favor is sufficient for us; and he will not suf- by us, you could engage some to assist in the distribu-
fer us to be tempted above that we are able to resist, but tion, serving one or more churches each session until all
will with tempt&ions, difficulties, etc., provide a way of have been served. If the church is a large one, it would
escape if we are in earnest, and will but do what we probably require two or three to hand to each person with-
can.-1 Cor. 10: 13. out delay, as they dismiss. Take your stand at the curb
Do not ask permission of any one to give the truth so as not to be upon the private property of the church,
to the Lord’s sheep-professedly our brethren. God sends and thus give no occasion for offence.

EVERLASTING, HELL, AND DAMNATION

J. G. Townsend, well known as a former talented Metho- withheld his power and not created us at all, or having
dist minister, recentlv severed his connection with the M. E. created us, he could righteously have blotted us out of
Church, and ‘has sin& been preaching to an independent con- existence even if obedienl, had 6e not graciously purposed
nremtion at Jamestown. N. Y. In one of his sermons he and uromised life everlastine unon condition of obedience.
iav” the following pi&& of hell:- Aid now while he has eghidited to us all, and to angels
“Suppose a tube, so long that it would take a drop of as well, his thorough and relentless determination that sin
water a million vears to pet to the bottom of it. Pass all shall not be Dermitted, and that its wages is death, he
the water in Ch&tauquavlake, drop by drop through that exhibits also hii love by .providing in Jesus a ransom price for
tube, and that would be a computable period. By and by the all; arranging that through this Saviour all shall ultimately
water would all pass through the tube. Pour all the be released from Adamic sin (and all sins growing out of
waters of the Atlantic ocean and the Pacific ocean, drop by the fallen disposition inherited, and the evil surroundings in-
drop through that tube, and eternity would only have begun. cident to and resultina from Adam’s fall and from the pen-
Turn the meat suns yonder into oceans of water and put alty of sin,) in order ihat in an appointed season the whole
them all &rough the &be, a drop in a million years, and set world should be judged or tried again by the Christ of God
the eternal Dunishment would onlv have beeun. Do vou think (1 Cor. 6:2: Matt. 19:28) ; not again representatively but
the Heavenly Father would pui that phishmeni on any individually. ’
of his children for the sins of this transient life? It is This trial as yet has reached and developed only two small
atrocious to think of it. I believe that this doctrine of eternal elect classes-the overcomers of this age and those preceding
hell is a lie against man-is a lie against God, and sooner -tried beforehand in the midst of evil surroundings for special
than preach it, I would let my tongue rot in my mouth. I purposes and positions. But ultimately each individual of
deny that the Bible teaches it. Suppose you were to take out the race will have their representative Adam in the first trial,
of the Bible the word damnation, the word hell, the word ever- and in addition to this will have the benefit of present experi-
lasting as applied to punishment; would you not think that ence in sin and its nenaltv. Thus each shall decide his
it would mitigate the idea of punishment, soften it, ameliorate own case bv his own Gonduc*t. Those obedient shall live for-
it? Certainly it would. Now I want to state upon the au- ever; those who will not conform to God’s will are con-
thority of eminent scholars, and upon my own authority, after a demned as unworthy of life and shall be cut off from it
careful examination of the words of the original that not one o shall die for their own disobedience, as before they were
these words neither damn&on, nor he&nor ever&sting,has any under death for Adam’s disobedience. Hence it is called the
right whatever within the lids of the Bible. All of them are second death. It will be everlastinr*. No ransom will be
imported words, mistranslations. Thev have no critical, or given for it and there will be no re&rrection from it. Jus-
just, or moral right to remain in the Bible.” tice, Mercy and Love unite with one will, in this everbsting
We can agree in part with the above statement of facts, penalty for wilful sin. It is here, that we agree only in
and fully with the speaker’s spirit. Those who claim that part with the above statement of brother Townsend.
God will everlastinelv torture his children for the sin of The Greek language seems to lack a word corresponding
Adam with their o’dv;l sins of a few short years, full of exactly to our word everlasting. The Greek word aiotios
trouble and weakness inherited and encountered from the transl;tted “everlasting” signifies literally untimited, i. e.. a
moment of birth, are often possessed of more tender affection ueriod unon which no limit is exnressed. Hence when it
than their theology would seem to indicate. In a word, they is used &ith reference to the disposition of the sheep and
though fallen and imperfect, are nobler, more just and more goats of Matt. 25:46 it is evidently not improper to trans-
loving, than their narrow theological views permit them to late it everlasting as applying to the penalty as well as
thi& the God of love and justice to be. - the reward ; everlasting or unlimited death to one class,
Thev excuse this and attemnt to eive it the annearance of and everlasting or unlimited life to the other. The words
justice; by saying that a sin *comm%ted again& -an infinite everlasting and eternal in this verse are from the same
being is an infinite sin, and therefore in justice must re- Greek word &onion. The reward to obedience is life, and
ceive an infinite (unlimited) nunishment. While it is true of sin the punishment iq not torture, nor life in any
that in judging ‘of the enormity of sin the standpoint condition, but death. (Rom. 6~23) ; and this verse (46) dc-
of God and of perfect manhood should be recognized, clares that the results of the trial described and illustrated
and not our standpoint as fallen and deDraved beings. in this parable, are not transient, but lasting-unlimited.
yet to make the penalty depend upon t&e infinity ‘bi The word damnation as generally understood to mean
God is so manifestlv uniust. that naueht but dire necessitv endless woe, is, we agree with brother T., totally without
to give an appearance o’f justice to th&r theological dogm; a Scripture basis. Its strongest significance is condemnation
can have invented such a theory. On the contrary, the or rejection. Jesus applies the same word krima in John
degree of heineousness of sin depends uvon the state and 9:39. where it is translated “iudement.” “For iudement am
capacity of the transgressor. If- an infi;ite being were to I come into the world;” y& That he did &t ihere use
commit sin. it mieht be termed an “infinite sin.” but for a the word in its usual signification is clear from his other
finite being’to sin”could only be a finite sin. ’ statement that he came not to condemn [krirlo sentence] the
The penalty of sin is de-ath-destruction-extinction; and world, but that the world through him might be sared.-
if each individual of the world were to be individuallv tried John 3:17.
under this penalty, each would of necessity have to be ierfect, Again, we agree with brother T. that the word hell (with
possessing full ability and under favorable circumstances to the meaning at present attached to the word) is an improper
resist sin. But such onnortunitv none but Adam has vet translation of either sheol, hades or gehennn and it is un-
enjoyed, all bring tried- -represen%atively in him, and tiu4 authorized bv the meaning or use of these words. The first
condemned to the full nenaltv rirhteouslv. though thev had two simply defer to the condition or state of death, as the
no individual trial. @or it’ ca&ot be” gains&d th& the penalty of Adam’s sin, which would have been everlasting
Creator had a perfect right, if he had so chosen, to have had God not mercifully provided “a ransom for all,” in
L6991
(5) ZION’S WATCH TOWER
Christ our Lord. hy reason of w111v11it may be considered city, and never used as a place of torture,) is used in
mcrelc a long slrep. Scripture to represent in a symbolic manner the zctter and
Gehennn (the name of a valley outside of Jerusalem hopelea destructiolt (not torment) of the second death,
wbrr~ fires were kept burning to destroy the offal of the from which there is no hope of recovery.

STEPHEN’S DYING PRAYER

A::2 thry *tonod Stel’hcn. (.~1111!gupon God (R. V. “the Lord”), and saying, Lord Jesus. receive my spirit. And he kneeled
down and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said
this, he fell asleep.“-Acts vii:59, 60.
-1s usl~ally understood, the “spirit” referred to by the per- had spoken in this manner:-“1 will come again and receive
secuted Saint, is an immortal part in man, which, in the you unto myself Y’
CaEp of the pious. is borne aloft to the nightless world at the Following his hours of agony on the hill of shame, and
fillill hour. About to die, it is assumed that the martyr com- when the last moment had arrived. the Man of Sorrows. after
mltted himself, or his spirit, to the Saviour, in hope of en- crying with a loud voice, closed’his utterances with’ these
during happiness as soon as liberated from the tenement of words :-“Father, into Thy hands I commend my spirit; and
clay. -1 pleasing representation, no doubt; but one encom- having said thus, he gave up the ghost” (literally, out-
pacard with difficulties we dare not overlook. breathed) ; that is-died.-Luke xxiii:46. According to Mat-
This common view is diametrically opposed to our thew xxvii : 50, He “yielded up the ghost” (literally, dismissed
Lord’s testimonr in the hearing of his Apostles immediately his spirit) ; i. e., drew his last breath, or ceased to live.
before his cruci’fision :-“I go to prepare a place for you.“- Stephen, the earliest martyr among the disciples, appears
,John xiv : 2. At the conclusion of their toils and Dains were to have imitated his Master in the closing scene. Jesus said,
thcp appointed to go thither-as orthodoxy ass&es its dis- “Father, into Thv hands I commend my spirit.” W h e n the
ciples now? It seems not Iv. 3)-“And if I eo. and nrenare stones were cruelly battering his quiveribg -form, Stephen ap-
a -place for you, I will come again, and re”ce&e ydu into pealed thus:-“Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
1Iyself, that where I am, there ye may be also:” words which The original word used by the dying Lord, and by his dy-
may be regarded as explanatory of xiii:33-36. W h e n he rose ing servant, is pneuma, translated “spirit,” and both passages
In sublime majesty from the mountain top, the attending angels are given in Robinson’s Greek Lexicon of the New Testament
said to those who were spectators of his removal:-“This same as illustrations of the term, when indicating “the principle of
Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come life residing in the breath;” turning our thoughts back to the
in like manner”-that is, quietly and unknown to the world old record. .-The Lord God breathed into his nostrils the
-“as ye have seen him go into heaven;“-Acts 1:ll. The breath of life, and man became a living soul.-Gen. 11 :i’.
doctrine of Scripture then is, there is no such thine as going Taking this as undoubtedly correct, the right interpre-
to him at death; not one saint will be privilegedvto bGhol;f tation of this expiring witness’ devout language is not hard
his face till he revisits this world. according to his uromise. to find. He called on his exalted Lord to receive back the
The Apostle Paul understood the Divin; Dlan a&l ordina- life-giving breath, or to accept his life which he rendered
tion perfectly, and therefore anticipated neiiher reward nor up as a sacrifice on the altar of Christianity. Very different
lnherltance till the Lord should he manifested a second time from the popular view, hut quite in accord with the general
without a sin-offering unto salvation:-“1 am now ready to be teachings of Scrinture. and the rest of this narrative itself.
offered,” he says, “and the time of my departure,“-that is, After &claiming:--” Lord Jesus, receive my spirit”-did he
from life-“is at hand I have fought a good fight, I have pass upward to the heavenly abode? As a spirit. winged
finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there he his flight to the Redeemrr’s nresence? No, rerilv: “He
is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, kneeled d&n, and cried with a Lloud voice,-Lord, iay not
the righteous judge, shall give me”-at death? No!--“At this sin to their charge. And when he had said this. &e fell
that day-‘--when he returns; “and not to me only, but unto a sleep.” He was sto;ed to death. 11~ ret,urned to the dust.
a11 them also that love his appearing.“--:! Tim. iv:&& Was For him there was no release till the “dead in Christ,” dur-
not Stephen educated in the same grand, errorless spiritual ing his presence and by his power, burst forth in the bloom
school ? Knew he not that the Deliverer in whom he trusted and blessedness of immortality.--8eZected.

IN HIS LIKENESS
“If I In thy likeness, 0 Lord, may awake, “I know this stained tablet must first be wnshcd white.
And shine a pure image of thee, To let thy bright features be drawn;
Then I shall be satisfied when I can break I know I must suffer the darkness of night,
The fetters of flesh and he free. To welcome the roming dawn.”

SHEEP AND GOATS

Our answer to some inquiries awakened by the article un- tunity for doubt, f&h will become the possession of all man-
der this caption in the August number, we publish, hoping kind: all will know the Lord from the least to the greatest.
that thev mav be of use to others who may not have written. Therefore we may see the reasonableness of the Scripture
This ’para’hle cannot with any consist&y be applied to teaching that the test in the next age will not be faith, which
anything which occurred at the first advent of our Lord. Its none could then avoid, but works, which under those favorable
lor’ationcis fixed hy the introductory sentence-‘W h e n the Son circumstances should result from the knowledge and oppor-
of &Ian shall come in His GLORY.” tunities then afforded.
Its location i< further fixed by the rule of *judgment or W e know of no statement of Scripture relative to the
trial prescribed. viz., works. The positions assigned on the world’s trial during the Millennial age, which mentions any
right hand or left, are expressly stated to be because (or inas- other test of approval than that of works. Of course, this
much as) certain uorks were done or not done. The test of will imply and include a previous faith in the ransom. Works
the trial or judgment of the church dnring the Gospel age is will be the test of judgment in that age as faith is the test in
“not works. but fnith.” Ry grace are ?,p saved through FAITH. this.
“Sot of ~corli.~ lrct nnv manv should boast.” “He that be-
Ileveth and is baptiycd shall h;? saved.” Mark 16:lS. Works was the basis of the Law covenant, which with its
7‘11~ reason for this may be readily seen: To test men by mediator-Moses, was a shadow or tvue of the good things
wnrk, in the Gospel aEe while llntler the dominion of the coming-the New Covenant and its gediator-Christ. AGd
Prince of this world. and nrcatlv crinnled bv the imnerfections thus Moses wrote of Christ, saving: “A nronhet shall the
of our fallen nature. \\onlz be a’ ver; ‘unfni; standar’d. Hence, Lord your God raise up unto yob Gi your l&et’hren like unto
though now works arrording to our ahility mnst naturally fol- me. Him shall ye hear in all thing?: and it shall come to
lc~w f&h. our iustifirntion and reward are according to our pass that every soul [person] that will not hear [heed] that
fazth: and not &ortlinr to our works. prophet shall be destroyed from among the people.” (Acts 3:
In the coming ape the circumstances will be verv different. 22, 23.) This shows ohcdience (zoorks) to be the basis of
W ith Satan ho&. ‘&il and error r&rained. the cliar light of the antitypical covenant-the “New.”
truth hhining, driving away all obscurity. mist, darkness and The Apocalypse teaches the same lesson regarding the
rrror, and consequently driving away all room and oppor- world’s trial in the Millennial age, when the present thrones
[7001
I)ECLMBER. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER

are cast down and the rulership of earth is handed over to his control will be released. But those who during the trial
the saints, (Rev. 20:4) ; when Satan ?a restrained (ver. 2) ; of the Millennial age will not become willing, and obedient
when the glorious New Jerusalem (heavenly kingdom) has servants of the Lord, are reckoned His adversaries-the mes-
come to rule the earth in harmony with the laws of heaven; sengers and accomplices [angels] of the great adversary, Satan ;
and when the nations are being guided and directed by the and into destruction such are cast-the devil and his aneels.
light of truth shed abroad from it. (Rev. 21:23, 24). It was prepared for them. Such, and such only, did %od
When the books (of Scripture) are opened, and their teachings from all eternity design to blot from existence as unworthy
made clear and plain to all, and another book or record of the boon of life.
those worthy of life-everlasting is open for recording the Does the word everlasting in verse 46 indicate thdt the
names of those who then shall be the Lord’s “efieep,” and punishment will last forever? It certainly does. When some
worthy, as shown in the parable, to enjoy his favor and ever- one told you that the Greek word aionian, here rendered ever-
lasting life ;* when the QBEAT WHITE TRBONE, representative lasting. had not such a meaning, but always meant a limited
of purity, justice, fairness and impartiality of the TBIAL, when period. of time, he misinformeyi you, and” merely applied a
all the world-small and great shall be tried by Him that definition common to a sect called “Adventists,” but never-
sitteth upon the throne, the basis of that judgment or trial is theless an error. It is true that the words aion and aionian
expressly stated in these words ‘And they were judged every sometimes are used to refer to a limited period of time-an
man according to their works.” Rev. 20: 13. age. epoch, or lifetime, but it is equnllv a fact that these
In perfect harmony then, is the teaching of Jesus in the wilds *are ‘used sometinks to represent a; unlimited or “eeer-
parable under consideration. Love and its fruit, good works, last&o” time. and that it is so used in this verse there is
will be the ground upon which the sheep of that age will be no roo’m for question or controversy, It is settled by the use
rewarded; and failure to develop and exercise these, under of the same -word to the righteo<s-they go into iife EVER-
such favorable circumstances, is the peculiarity of the way- LABTINO or “aionian” -the same Greek word being used.
ward “goat” class, condemned as unworthy of life-to be cut This fact is obscured in the common version by reason’ of the
off-to die. God deems them unworthy of life, and our translators having used a different English word--eternal.
hearts and minds bow to his all-wise decision, “Every soul The passage declares the same length of punishment (destruc-
which will not hear that prophet shall be destroyed from tion,*as &own above) to the goaz class,-as of reward to the
among the people.” Acts 3:23. righteous sheeD. and if Adventists and Universalists claim
Let it not be forgotten that the Millennial trial accord- th>t aicmian h&e always means a limited period, they should,
ing to works, and ability of those being tried to render works to be consistent, hope only for a life of limited duration for
of merit and approval, is based upon their redemption from the riehteous, since the same Greek word is used in reference
the Adamic curse, by Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for to boa.
all. Had it not been for that redemption there never would Is it true that the word “cursed” in verse 41 in the origi-
be a Millennial age of blessing and trial for the dead race. nal Greek means merelv unblessed or less blessed?
There could have been neither awakening nor trial had we not By no means; the “Gredr word here translated cursed is
been bought with His precious blood. kataraomai. It signifies the very opposite of blessing; it
Dots not the reading of Matt. 25:41, indicate torture in signifies a curse in the sense usually understood in the
literal fire as the merit of the “goat” class? No, not a word English. Webster defines cursed thus: Deserving a curse;
is mentioned about torture. !t’hc thought of torture has been execrable, hateful, detestable ; abominable. Apply a’ny of
added to the statement bv some whose theories it fitted. with- these synonyms in the place of cursed in &e- Ian&age
out any authority, except that they infer torture as a’result of the text and see what kind of blessing it would be. The
of contact with fire. But fire is not used as a symbol of same Greek word is used with reference to the cursed fig tree
torture, but of destruction. God under the Law shadows in Mark 11:21. Also in Luke 6:28. Rom. 12:14 and James
never permitted Israel to torture any creature, though he fre- 3:9. And the same root word, kaiara, is used three: times
quently commanded things and dead carcasses to be humed with reference to the original curse or .condemnation resting
with fire as a symbol of utter DESTRUCTION. It is this signi- uoon all who failed to keen Derfectlv the requirements of the
ficance that we attach to fire in this verse-destmxtion. To la’w of God in Gal. 3:10-13: If tile curse- lifted by Jesus’
apply it literally would be out of harmony with the entire death was severe, then the curse imposed by him upon those
parable-the fire is not more literal fire than are the goats called “goats” in the parable, is severe, and in no sense a
literal goats. Everlasting fire then would signify everlasting blessing.- As a matter of fa&, the fir& curse which came
or non-ending destruction. uoon all men throueh Adam’s disobedience was death-cutting
I

“PREPARED FOR THE DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS” off from life--and to purchase for man a right to live again.
Is it true that this fire or DESTRUCTION which will take Jesus needed to be and was “made a curse for us”-cut off
place at the close of the Millennial age and in which the from life, treated as the sinner, as our substitute, that we
“goat” class will share--was prepared or designed, for the might be’ restored to life and mjde the righteousness of God
Devil and his angels? Yes, thus it is written, and so we be- throueh him. (2 Cor. 5:21.) If, , then, the Adamic death was
lieve. It is stated in so many words. I John 3 :8 ; Heb. 2: 14. a curse from which none could be released without a Redeemer,
“His angels”-the word here translated angels signifies what must it imply to receive the curse again, and from thr
messengers, and the Diaglott so translates it. We do not un- lins of the Redeemer? It implies, what other Scriptures state,
derstand it to refer t% those fallen angels now associa- tfiat those who shall refuse- to hear and heed that Prophet
ted with Satan-“Those angels which kept not their shall be cut off. The fact that he who redeemed and will
first estate, but left their own habitation,” etc., (Jude 6) bless by bringing all to a knozoledge of the truth, with full
but we apply the word on a more general principle. Satan opportunity for life everlasting, will be the one to say “De-
will be bound at the close of the Gospel age, and all under part ye cursed?’ declares plainly that their trial will then be
l Evidently the “other sheep” BS also unotJwr “book of life” from ended. He redeemed from the curse ojlce, but “Christ diet11
that of the Gospel age. (John IO:16 and Rev. 20:12.) no more.” (Rom. 6:9.)

CLOTHED AND UNCLOTHED

“For we know that if our earthly house
of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a buildin, m of God, a 11011;~not nl:lde with
hands, eternal in the h eavens.“-2 Cor. 5 : 1,
This is a blessed and comforting assurance to those con- bondage to sin and death, into the glorious lzberi?, of the sons
secrated saints who in fulfilling their covenant of self-sacrifice, of God, i. e., into freedom from corruption (death), but not
realize daily that the “earthlq house,” or “earthen vessel” is to the spiritual nature and body. Their hope is restitzctio,t
dissolving. Such have a buildmg of God [a new or spiritual to human perfection, while that of the Church is the com-
body prepared for them] eternal in the heavens. But, this pletion of our change of nature from hnmnn to spiritual. Our
Scripture is only applicable to those who by sacrifice of the new nature, is burdened by the frailties and imperfrrtion of
human nature have become “new creatures”-partakers of the the human and longs for full perfection as a new creature, re-
divine nature. membering that the full fellowship of the Lord cannot be ob-
To this class, the human body has become, as it were, a tained before that change. Hence walking by faith we long
house or temporary dwelling place for the new mind, the for the house from heaven. a spiritual body adapted to the
begotten new creature. Of the world this is not true; they desires, etc., of the new mind. “In this tabernacle [or house]
are not new creatures, and the body is part of themselves and we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our hou’e
not a house. They have no new nature to maintain in the hu- which is from heaven.”
man conditions for a time, nor are they ever to be clothed “For, we that are in this tabernacle (10 groan. being bilr-
with a heavenly, the spiritual body. dened: not for fhat ?OCu~~tlrl be ?trtcZofhcd. hut rlothrd rlpon.
The world is in due time to be delivered from its present that mortality might be swallowed up of life.” The unclothed
c7011
(6) ZION’S WATCH TOWER PITTSBURGH. Pa.

or death condition, is not desirable though the majority of the “Therefore we are always confident and willing rather to be
Church had to remain in that condition for many years. absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.”
Paul. when ready to be offered, must wait for the crown laid It is now, the privilege of the saints to be ushered into
rep for him. but not to be received until the day of Christ’s the presence of the Lord as soon as the earthly body is laid
appearing. (2 Tim. 4:8.) down as we read, “Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord
“Sow he that hath wrought us for this self-same thing is from henceforth.” (Rev. 14:13. See TOWEB for April 1883.)
God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the spirit.” Though this was the thing desired by all the saints dur-
We are begotten of God for the very purpose of being ire- ing this age, it was not the privilege of any until this time of
\-eloped and born in to the spiritual likeness, and the fact that the Lord’s presence. But it was the privilege of all to be
we now realize that we have his spirit [leading us to sacri- always confident, knowing that after the earthly house should
fice the earthlv] is evidence that in due time we shall be be dissolved--in God’s due time, they should be clothed upon
born in the spiritual likeness-made like unto Christ’s glori- with the heavenly house, the spiritual body, swallowed up of
ous body. life. Amen, so let it be. R. w.

THE GOSPEL THEME

‘_lndfi on1 the days of John the Raptist until now, the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence and the violent take it by force.”
Matt. 11: 12.
There is today more of what is commonly considered GOS- about to leave them, he said, “A little while, and ye shall not
Del nreachine than at anv urelious time in the world’s his- see me : and again. a little while and ve shall see me” ; and
iory: From Thousands of pulpits it is heard twice every Lord’s the little while”has been the entire Go& age.
day, and again at the mid-week meeting, while thousands of Ah ves. it is a little while from God’s standooint. with
printing p resses are preaching through weekly and monthly whom i thousand years is but as one day. (2 Pet: 3:s).
periodical<, and millions of tracts, pamphlets, and books. From God’s standpoint, and we are invited to take the same
And added to all this, there are the extra efforts of what are nosition of observation. it was but a “little while” to the
termed lay evangelists, Christian associations, salvation armies, second advent of Christ and the establishment of his king-
etc. dom. The kinndom was iust at hand. and the King about to
But as we listen to the manv, many voices, we hear sounds be anointed for his glorious reign. And if this w’ls true in
strangely out of harmony with.the Eommissfon of the great John’s day, how emphatically true is it at the present time to
Head of the church. whose leading these all profess to follow. which the prophecies point as the hour that just IJreCeedS the
It would seem that if the commission wa’; ever heard by dawn of the glorious day of that reign! Jesus did not ex-
this great army of preachers, it must have been forgotten. plain to the early Church just how long God’s “little while”
\\.hat was it? Hearken again to the Master’s voice: should be, as it would have seemed a very long time to them.
“Go . . . . and as ye go, prgach, saying, The Kingdom of But it would seem that in some sense, rhe kingdom of
Eearen is ut hand.” (hfatt. 9:(i, 7.). And again “Let the heaven had an existence in John’s da-y; for Jesus said, “From
dead bury their dead; but go thou and preach the kingdom of the days of John the Baptist until- now, the kingdom of
&-Id.” f\-~
Luke 9:60).
~~I
And the Lord’s discinles are taught heaven suffereth violence and the violent take it by force.”
also not only to preach-to publicly proclaim the coming-of Since the kingdom when set up cannot suffer, but must reign
the kingdom of God, but to pray for it, saying: “Thy king- triumnhantlv. we conclude that the text refers to those ele-
dom come-thy will be done on earth as it is done in heaven.” ments- of th:‘kingdom in existeuce, and being developed dur-
If that prayer is ever to be answered-rid it certainly will iug this age.
be, since he who dictated it could not err, and would not In John’s day, Jesus, the Lord’s anointed, was present,
teach us to ask for anything out of harmony with Jehovah’s and he and the $ew disciples who then received him as their
will-then there will come a time, when the kingdom of God Lord. were then the onlv elements of the kingdom; but during
will be actually SET UP in the earth, and when as a conse- the Gospel age others “have become subject-to him; and hi;
quence of the setting up of that kingdom, His will shall be reign of righteousness has been over them to mould and fash-
done OS EARTH, even as it is done in heaven. You who have ion them according to the divine will. So far as the im-
so frequently declared your firm belief in answer to prayer, do perfections of the aesh permit, God’s will is done by these as
you believe this? Shall not this united prayer of all saints it is done in heaven. It should be clearlv manifest that none
for nearly nineteen centuries past, dictated by the unerring but those who are entirely consecrated “to God, are of this
~isrlnm of our Lord. be answered? Most assuredly it will. kingdom, though many claim to be and think they are of it,
The coming of the kingdom of God, and the things per- who do not claim e&-e consecration.
taining to that kingdom-the death of Christ as the necessary The subjects of Christ, the heavenly king, hearken to, and
prclir&ary work ‘io its introduction, and the resurrection obey his voice. They do not turn every man to his own
of Christ, the assurance and pledge of it, was the great theme way and plan regardless of the Commander’s instructions,
of the Apostles’ preaching, and the inspiring hope of the early though the command is to march through danger, privations,
church. loss and suffering. But to those who recognize Jesus as king
\\-hen John the Baptist came preaching repentance, it was and become subject to him before his glory and power are
with the strong incentive, never before offered, “The kingdom manifested. there are exceeding great and precious promises,
of heaven is at hand.” Jesus preached the same truth, saying to be realized when his kingdom ‘is set up. ‘They shall be a&
“Repent, for the kingdom of ‘heaven is at hand.” L\nd this counted worthv to reign with him. It was to give to this
was the spirit of the teaching of all the Apostles. Men pn- class the privilege of “suffering and as a result,-of raigning
erally desire to be in favor with the ruling power, and the with Christ, that the kingdom began to be preached so long
coming kinndom of heaven meant a coming reign of righteous- before it was to be actually SET UP or established in power.
ness. wher& the righteous would prosper and the wicked Of this class only, are dur Lord’s words first quoted true.
would be punished. ‘If the kingdom-was at hand, then how These suffer violence at the hands of the present reimiing
natural and proper to urge it as an incentive to rcpeutauce and power of this world-Satan, and the subjects-of his kingdom,
righteousness. and the pages of history from the days of John the Baptist
Ever since the fall repentance had been preached: but none until now, present the dark record of the violence suffered by
before *John were commissioned to preach the kingdom of God those who are of the kingdom of heaven.
at hand, and other truths relative to it. This is the Gospel, the Violence persecuted and crucified our King, stoned
good news not made known in other ages. As Jesus said, “The Stephen his faithful martyr, beheaded Paul, crucitled Peter,
law and the prophets were until John; since that time the roasted others by fire, tossed them on piercing forks, and
kingdom of God is preached [Sinaitic MS. omits with evident heaped upon them every indignity that fiendish wickedness
propriety the words “and every man presseth into it.“] But could devise. And even in these days, when the “salt of the
the law and the prophets though showing forth and foretell- earth” (See July issue) has to some extent purilled human
ing the coming kingdom, could never be clearly understood society, and counteracted the terrible influence of Satan’s
until the Gospel unraveled their mysteries. reign, still the kingdom of heaven suffers violence. Their
Was it in any sense a fact, that the kingdom of heaven names are cast out as evil, they are despised and rejected;
was at hand in John’s day? Nearly nineteen centuries have their business interests suffer and thev are counted as fools
passed since, and still the powers of darkness reign and the and fanatics. The violent take the kihgdom by force-With
kingdom of heaven is not yet SET UP. Still the wicked flour- overwhelming force of numbers and wealth they subdue the
ish >and the righteous are oppressed. If we consider the ex- little handful of the saints, trample and crush their influence,
pression as referring to the setting up of the kingdom in power and hinder the progress and spread of the heavenly kingdom.
an? glory, it was true, and .Jesus’ words in John 16:lG will Thus by the dominion of evil, is made possible for the Church,
hcllJ 11s to understand the statement. To his disciples, when a baptism into suffering, even unto death.
[7023
DECEMBER. 1884 ZION’S WATCH TOWER (6-7)

But is this all so, because the Heavenly King lacks the time as John said, he began to decrease (in influence) and
power, and is unable to bring victory to his faithful followers? Christ to increase. Though ever since then, his kingdom has
This reminds us of the words of Jesus when about to per- been in existence, yet this has been the time of ILS humilia-
form the symbol of his death-“Suffer it to be so now, for tion and affliction; its littleness and poverty have made rt
thus it becometh us [himself and his church] to fulfill all the subject of contempt and ridicule, while its unwavering
righteousness”-the righteousness of God’s law which required opposition to the spirit of the world, has incurred their hatred.
this sacrifice. So it was also true in John’s day that the kingdom of
God is able, and will bring victory to the tried and faith- heaven was then at hand-about to come in the sense men-
ful few who have been loyal subjects of his kingdom in these tioned. But today it is true in a still more glorious sense;
stormy times. These we are told are to be kings, and priests, for the time for the setting up and exaltation of the kingdom
and joint-heirs of the throne with Jesus Christ, when in due is at hand. The prayer of these loyal subjects henceforth to
time the kingdom of heaven is SET up-placed in control. be joint-heirs of the throne with Jesus, the king, is about to
Though the violent prince of this world lays them all low be answered. His kingdom is just about to come, in its glory
in death, divine power will bring them forth to victory. and power, and the blessed outcome of the victory of that
We would call special attention to the date Jesus men- kin dom, will be, that God’s will shall be done in earth.
tions in the text-“ from. the days of John the Baptist.” f f then, we would be faithful to him who has called us to
Other children of God, preceding the day of John the Bap- preach, let us see to it that we preach the Gospel (good-news)
tist, suffered in like manner as those who have suffered since. of the kingdom, and that we be not diverted from it by any
But notice, Jesus does not say, From the days of John the side issues. The kingdom, and things pertaining to the king-
Baatist the children of God suffer violence. but the h&adorn dom-its character, %s permanence, its sure foundation, its
of ileaven suffereth violence. Then those children of God”who blessed influence. and the cheering and insniring fact that it-
lived before that time were not of that kingdom to which setting up in glory and power is-just at &und,vshould be the
.Tesus referred-the kingdom of Christ. How could they be, theme of every true servant of God. And if we have been
when as yet there was no king anointed? faithful disciples of the Master we cannot be ignorant of these
The kingdom of heaven then be an to have an existence things, and if we know them how can we refrain from telling
when Jesus was anointed to be the %- rng-t the time of his them. “Go . . . . and as ye go preach, saying, the KINGDOM
baptism-“in the days of John the Baptist,” after which OF HEAVEK is at hand.” ACBS. C. T. B.

A JEWISH-CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT IN RUSSIA

A most remarkable religious movement is in pro~re”s of evil as such.” For this however, a leader is necessary. Who
among the Jews in Southern Russia. It is nothing more nor is he to be ? In Israel none can be found. “The man ~110
less than the establishment of Jewish-Christian coiyregations possesses all the oualifications of a leader-love of Israel,
among the Jews, which are to be in connection with none of iacrificing of life, pureness, deep knowledge of human nature,
the Christian religious communions as at present cxistinq, but earnestness in the exposal of the sins and evils of his people-
are to constitute a peculiar Christian association in close we have, after careful research in all the books of the hie-
connection with Jewish customs and manners. and with the tory of our people, found only in one man, in Jesus of Naz-
rejection of all Gentile-Christian dogmas. The soul of the areth.” The wise Israelites in his dav could not understand
movement is a Jewish lawver. Josenh Rabinowitz. a man of him ; “but we, in the present year (5644) can say with a cer-
high reputation among his people. For many years the social taintv that he. Jesus. he alone has sought the welfare of his
and religious status of his people has been an object of deep brethren. Therefore ‘we should Sam&y the name of our
concern to him. and in 1880 he published a program in which brother Jesus.” “We should receive the gospel books into
he advocated ‘a complete reorganization 01 the Rabbinical our houses as a blessing, and unite them with all the Holy
system. He was further active in the work of a society for Scriptures which were handed down to us by our wise men.”
the promotion of agriculture among the Jews of Southern The last thesis reads: “We hone confidentlv that the words of
Russia; and during lhe days of per&cution in 1882 earnestly our brother Jesus will bring *us, as fruit: righteousness and
advocated the return of his neonle to Palestine. Durine that salvation; and then the hearts of the people and the govern-
period the change in his rel:gidus convictions took pla& It ment will be turned to us in friendship, we shall have life and
was not the result of Christian mission work, nor is he a con- prosperity like other nations who li?e in safety under the
vert in the ordinarv sense of the word. The change was grad- shadow of Euronean laws. framed in the spirit of our brother,
ually effected, and only after long deliberation did- the who has given his life in’order to make the world happy and
thought of oreanizinp Christian conaregations of the Jewish remove evil from the earth! Amen.”
nati&ality as&me maturity in his “mind. After his return The rest of these documents are in the same vein, and all
from Palestine his conviction was: “The kev to the Holv Land show that the movement is, as yet, guided by an undefined
lies in the hands of our brother Jesus.” In the words”“Jesus and crude idea. The Jewish character is stamped on its brow;
our Brother” lies the kernel of his religious views. His work but who will deny that great possibilities lie, in germ, in it?
has been successful, and now there are no less than two hun- It will. doubtless. be wise to heed Delitzsch’s admonition to
dred families adhering to this new Jewish Christianity, and withhold judgment for the present and await further develop-
recentlv the Pesach festival was celebrated in accordance with ments. He closes his preface to his pamphlet with the words,
the li&gy drawn up by Rabinowitz. “&oil it not. There is a blessing in it.“--N. Y. Independent.
Prof. Franz Delitzsch, of Leipzig, the leader of Jewish mis- ‘Bishop Titcomb, of the English church in Northern and
sions in Germanv and editor of the Sad auf Hofnulno. a ouar- Central Eurone. in a letter to the London Twnes. mentions
terly devoted to” this work, has just published a pamphlet of this same m&ment, and gives the following as one of the
about seventy-five pages on this new religious development, the most noteworthy of a series of articles of faith which they
largest space in which is occupied by original documents, in have drawn up:
both the Hebrew and the German translation, on this move- “According to the decree of the inscrutable wisdom of God,
ment. These documents embrace thirteen theses: a confession our fathers \yere filled with hardness of heart, and the Lord
of Faith of the National Jewish Church of the New Testa- nunished them with the spirit of deer, sleep. so that thev OP-
ments: an Exnlanation of the Faith in the Messiah. Jesus of posed Jesus Christ and sinned against him ‘until the present
Nazareth, in the sense of this congregation; a Haggada for the day. But by their unbelief they led other nations to greater
Israelites believing on the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth; and, zeal, and they thus contributed to the propitiation of man-
finallv, an Order of the Lord’s Supper. As appendices are kind, who have believed in Jesus Christ, the son of David, our
added ‘a declaration of a teacher, Friedmann, t’o’ the Jewish king. when thev heard the nood tidings throueh the neace-
believers in Christ. and a declaration adonted bv a conference pro%sing messengers (Isaiah 5 2 :7 ) , who
I had ”been disgrace-
L
of the latter, held ‘in March of the present year” in Kischinev. fully expelled from communion with Israel In consequence.
The little pamphlet thus contains all the materials for a however, of this our sin against the Christ of God, the world
etudv of the new movement, as these are all original docu- has grown rich by its faith in Christ, and the nations in
ments by its advocates. fullness have entered the kinedom of God. Now. too. the
The theses. which are to be regarded as the basis of the time of our fullness has also &me, and we. the seed of Abra-
new faith, start out with the depl;rable state of the Jews in ham, are to be blessed by our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ:
Russia, and maintain that the endeavors at improvement on and the God of our forefathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob,
the Dart of the Jews themselves have proved futile. “There will take pity upon us and replant the branches which have
is need of a deep and inner moral renewal, of a spiritual re- been torn out. into our own Holv Root--Jesus. And thus
eeneration. We must cast aside our false nods. the love of all Israel shall share the eternal salvation, and .Jernsalem, 0111
money as such, and in the room thereof mu& establish in our Holy City, shall be rebuilt and the throne of David be re-
hearts a home for the love of truth as such, and for the fear established forever and evermore.”
17031
 OUR JUDGMENT
FROM THE DIVINE AND HUbIAN STANDPOINTS

“For the time past . . . . may suffice us to have wrought Hence God judges of such, not according to the flesh, but
the will of the Gentiles . . . . wherein they think it strange according to their spirit or mind, and as new creatures, spir-
that ye run not with them . . . . speaking evil of you. . . . itual; while by men this class is misunderstood, for they think
For this cause the gospel was preached also., to them that of you as of other menin the fEesband hence think strange
nre dead, that tbep might be judged, accorclmg to menin that you are not controlled by the same desires and ambition
tlrc flesk, but according to God in the Spirit.“-1 Pet. 4:3-6. as themselves.
Oyr explanation of the above Scripture is asked. We un- It was to produce this very distinction in you that the
derstand verse 5 to be a parenthesis, and hence in arriving at gospel was preached to you, who are dead to the world, that
the direct chain of the Apostle’s argument, it should be for you might have Christ formed within you-his mind and prin-
the time ignored. To bring the important points of the ar- ciples, and that thus you might be so different from the forld,
gument closer together, we have arranged the quotation as that they, not appreciating the real cause of the change, but
above. still regarding you as “of the fleshly nature,” may think
The consecrated child of God has not onlv realized iustifi- strange-of you and misconstrue your motives, and h&e you,
cation from sin through Jesus’ imputed rig<teousnesq, ‘but in and buffet you, and thus try you and make you meet for the
his consecration he has given up-sacrificed-his justified hu- inheritance of the saints in light. Nevertheless, remember that
man nature. and henceforth, according to God’s instruction, God recognizes you as a new creature, and will judge of all
he reckons himself no longer of the huGan nature, but a “new your course accordingly. You may know then, that your faith
rreature in Christ Jesus,” a Dartaker “of the divine nature.” and patience he will appreciate, and that “your labor is not in
And God so reckons hi&. 1 vain in the Lord.”

A SECOND CHANCE
A subycrlbel sends us the following extract from a paper, point which bears at all upon the question of “second chance ”
which attempts to demolish Peter’s statement, that follow- It applies to the Millennial age, and is clearly described as
ing our Lord’s second advent there will be times of RESTITU- being after the Lord has come the second time and estab-
TI& of all things, spoken by the mouth of all the holy lished his kingdom (church) in power and great glory. Then
uroDhets since the world began. (Acts 3:21.) It savs: the nations shall be judged or tried and rewarded, (Matt.
‘*Now the trouble aboutYall this is found in the”fact that 25:32.) When that scene has transpired, there will assuredly
such teachers as John the Baptist and our Lord appear to be no hope of further trial-no fuither .chance.
have known nothing about this ‘second chance.’ John’s text Let us now hastily glance at the statement made in the
was ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ He spoke above-“John the Bap%s% and our Lord appear to have known
of the ax being laid at the root of the tree. He referred to One nothing about this ‘second chance.“’
coming with ‘: fan in his hand, gathering the wheat into his Our Lord certainly knew that because of one man’s trans-
Parner. but burning the chaff. Jesus took the same text. and gression, sin and death had passed upon all men (Born. 5 : 16,
Tndor&d the doctrynes of John most positively. In his’ par- IS), consequently man’s FIRST CHANGE in Eden had resulted in
able about Dives and Lazarus nothing appears looking tb a total loss.- He -failed and lost all in the first chance, being
‘second chance’: and, in the sentence pronounced in theoztdt; tried reDresentativelv in Adam. AL? were condemned. That
ment scene, nothing favors the theory in question. Jesus kiew this, ana came into the world to redeem all men
two thinw is verv certain: either Jesus and John knew noth- in order that all men might have a SECOND CHANCE, is clear,
ing of prvobation *after death, or if they did, they trifled with from his statement that he came “to seek and to save that
their hearers ; for nobody who heard them preach, had any which ~a.9 lost.”
other impression than that now was the accepted a time, and to- As the expression, “which was lost,” tells the tale of the
day the hay of salvation.” first chance and its failure, so the words “seek and save”
If a man should pick up an almanac and read throughout, proclaim a second chance to all the lost.
its description of the weather to be expected from January t0 Who can reasonably dispute that the opportunity which
December, and should apply all its predictions of frost, hail, comes through Jesus is a second chance? You and I had noth-
snow, rain, and thunderstorms to a single July day he would ing whatever to do in the first chance of life offered to the
obtain but an imperfect idea of the kind of weather to be ex- race; we have to do only with the second. If then, you and
netted. Yet not more mised than this seems the indiscrimi- I, fellow-believers, got our present or second chance of life
;mte use of Scripture statements by the writer of the above and through the ransom that Jesus pave for our sins, redeeming
ot11c1 Y. Truths concerning the next age are mixed with those us from the first loss, shall we-say that he was a ransom.
of the past and present, and the result is great confusion, onlv for the small minority of mankind who have thus far
and a selection of such parts from all as will best suit pre- he&d of it and believed? or” shall we conclude that “He is the
conceived ideas. We cannot suppose that a man who had the propitiation [satisfaction or covering] for our sins; and not
first idea of what the symbols-ax, tree, garner, chaff, wheat, for ours only, but also for the sins of the WHOLE WORLD"? (1
fan, etc., mean would apply them as they are used above, or Jno. 2:2.)
blend them in any way with the parable of Dives and the judg- Accepting this as the truth, is it not absolutely certain
ment scene of Matt. 25. that the n&e-tenths who have not yet heard, and hence not
Let us pull straight the tangle before considering a “second vet had the “second chance” Jesus’ death was designed to
c,hance.” provide, will surely have it in God’s due time? Is iot this
Both our Lord and John were speaking of the Jewish fact clearly stated by the Apostle Paul when he says that
Ilolitr. when thev compared it to a tree at whose root lay an Jesus “gave himself a RANSOM [equivalent price] for ALL, to
‘1.X. ‘The end of’ specinl favor to that nation had about come, be testiged in due time”? * *
and if in the little while of *Jesus’ ministry they should fail The posDe1 see now closing is not the world’s due time: it
to bring forth good fruit, they would be cut off from the root is the trme’ app&ed for thg selection or election of a little
of nromise. and believers from the Gentiles would be crafted flock out from the world, who, with Jesus, shall soon take
In instead, (Ram. 11 : 17.) It was the harvest time: f& their (the “Durchased possession”) the dominion of earth out of
ilyc had ieached its full. Jesus was present to &lect with t‘he ha;ds of Satah, the presknt “Prince,” and give judgment
llis “,fun” of truth, the wheat from among the chaff and “oar- or trial to the world-its second trial-the ereat blessinn so
leer” ‘it in the Gospel age, while a time of“fire” or tribulaiion long promised. The great Prophet shall, in” that Millennial
pame upon the chaff remainder of the nation, and as a nath, da< &eak to the people, and “they that hear shall live,” be-
burned -them up. coming his sheeD and coming to his right hand of favor: all
Dives, n representative, in parable, of that people, so long others; as willfdl goats, being cut off. -(Acts 3~22, 23.) *And
peculiarly farorrtl of God, faring sumptuously every day of none claim more strenuously than we, that rww is the accept-
Ck~cl’, spwinl favols. has for Some time been looking longingly able time. That the Gospel Age is a special season, during
for aid’ to the Gentile whom once he despised, bui whi n%nr which the Christ-the world’s deliverer-shall be selected,
ha, been exalted to favor-Abraham’s Bosom-and though once proved and fitted for their great work as the Seed of Abra-
\I ild and un?ovelned. has become the favored branch”out of ham (Gal. 3:29.) to bless all the families of the earth. Now
the Ahrahamlc olive root of promise. is the only time to secure this high calling. Now is the time
The Judgment scene referred to (Matt. 25.), is the only of sacrifice, the only time when such sacrifices are acceptable.

“There is a gift that is almost R blow. and there is a kind greatness of love to him. As nearness to the sun increases the
word that is munificence; 10 much is there in the way of temperature of the various planets, so near and intimate com-
doinp things.” munion with Jesus raises the heat of the soul’s affections
“SEARNESS of life to the Sariour will necessarily involve towards him.”
(7) r7941
 ZION’S WATCH TOWER TRACT SOCIETY
If our charter is granted in a few days as we expect, vot- These are mistaken ideas. While we trust fully to the
ing certificates will at once be issued to all whose donations Lord’s care of His own cause, it is our duty to so arrange our
to the .Society’s funds shall aggregate Ten Dollars or more. affairs and His, that in c-e of one death it would not require
Each ten dollar donation will represent one voting share ac- miraculous interposition to prevent disputes, and law suits
cording to our charter. from swamping the Society and annoying our successors in
A few have evidently misunderstood the matter of obtain- its management. So far as the Government is concerned we
ing a Charter and feared it was either an attempt to obtain ask only those rights which it accords to &ens as well ai
protection or recognition, from a government of this world; citizens. And a charter such as we are asking for is such a
or an evidence of lack of trust that God could and would tight; it brings us under no obligation whatever.
carry forward his own work no matter who lived or died.

HOW READ-T THOU?

The doctrine of atonement and reconciliation to God by accept the good news of redemption and blessing through
the death of Christ implies that it was his death which con- Christ, be consistent and admit also a resurrection of Christ
stituted the reconciling act. It must be conceded that if the and the resurrection for all through him.
natural death of Jesuz on the cross paid the penalty, then it Jesus’ work for mankind is greater and grander than some
was natural life onlv that man forfeited bv disobedience. If seem able to grasp. He bought us with -his own precious
both of these claims”be true, then all men, &cording to Scrip- blood-substituting himself as a man for the race of men,
ture, were, on the death of Christ, at some time entitled to a tasting death for every man. But this purchase of mankind
resurrection. Now, in the light of these facts, we should de- was only a means to an end-he bought the race that (in due
sire an explanation by sub&itutionists of 1 ’Cor. 16:17-l& time) he might have the legal right to RESTORE it to per-
There the Anostle is credited with saving: “If Christ be fection. Hence, both the death of Christ was necessary for
not raised, y&r faith is vain; ye are ye”t ii your sins. Then our purchase, and his resurrection was essential to the carry-
they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished.” ing out of the blessed plan for our restoration to harmony
If the doctrine of substitution be true, these two verses can- with Jehovah.
not be. If, as is claimed, the death of Christ paid man’s Other statements of the same Apostle prove that he rec-
penalty, then, whether Christ be raised or not, man could not ognized fully the necessitv both of the death to nurchase and
justly be in his sins. Moreover, if Christ’s death entitled man of the resirrection to confer the blessing upoi those pur-
to a resurrection, and this, substitutionists claim, then neither chased. He savs of Jesus. “Who was delivered Pinto death1
those in Christ nor out of him could have perished because for our offences, and was iaised again for our jus‘tification”-
of having previously fallen asleep.-Day 8tar. i. e., in order that he might justify us. (Rom. 4:25.) And
OUR REPLY again. “If while we were enemies we were reconciled to God
The force of this expression, “If Christ be not raised, your by th;! DEATH of his Son, much more [easily believed, is the
faith is vain ; ye are yet in your sins : then they also which are promise that] being reconciled we shall be saved [recovered
fallen asleep in Christ are perished,” lies in the fact that if fully, from the imperfections and penalties of sin] by his life.”
Christ was not raised, he was dead, and could have no power (Rom. 5:lO.)
to bless the families of earth, as he had purposed. The death It was impossible for the Apostle, as well as for us, to
of Christ as purchasing mankind, would still be a grand ex- state every feature of the plan at once; hence, in treating of
pression of his love, even though he had never arisen from the resurrection in the passa e above cited by our contempo-
the dead to dispense the blessings which his ransom-sacrifice rary, he does not allude to t f e value of the death of Christ.
gave the right to bestow; for “Greater love hath no man than But blind indeed must be the reader, if he has not seen that
this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” But it Paul and every other Apostle and prophet laid great stress
would have been waste and loss to purchase us had he not unon the death of Christ as a ransom for all, the onlvI BASIS
had in view a resurrection, which would enable him to bless of hope for blessings through him.
those bought. Here let us remind our readers that those who deny that
But again, according to the types of the sin-offering, If Jesus “gave himself a ra,nsom for all” should give some reason
the High Priest performed his sacrifice in a manner accept- for his death-an adequate reason for so great an event. To
able, so that its sweet perfume filled the Most Holy, then he say that he died as we die, because of sin and imperfection, is
should LIVE beyond the vail and could come forth to bless to denv the testimonv of Scrinture. that he was holv. harm-
those for whose sin he had made sacrifice; and if he l&d less a;d separate frim sinners, and had no cause bf death
not, it was an evidence that his sacrifice for sins had not been in him. To claim that he died merelv as our example (to
properly done, and was not acceptable, and no blessing nor show us how to die?) is to furnish an *inadeouate reason, for
remission of sins could come from such a sacrifice. there are many noble examples furnished in Scripture of ihose
Thus seen, Paul’s argument is this: Christian friends, you who laid down their lives for the truth. (Heb. 11:37, 38).
occupy an unreasonable, a ridiculous position when you say The only adequate reason for Jesus’ death is repeated over
(verse 12) that a resurrection of the dead is an impossibility. and over again in Scripture, viz.: that we being condemned
If it is an impossibility, then is Christ not risen: and if so. to death, he took our nature that he might “taste death for
why do you talk abouf.. being forgiven your sins and having every man.” “He died for our sins,” “redeemed” us, “pur-
hopes through him for the future ? A dead Christ-one not chased” us, “bought us,” giving himself “a ransom [eqttiralettt
raised from- death-can never bless you; wherefore, if you price] for all.”

“IT IS MY WAY”
Many people, when reproved for an improper word or ac- Ezek. 16:61. The psalmist asks, “Wherewithal shall a jroung
tion, excuse or justify themselves by saying, “It is my way.” man cleanse his way?” and the answer is given, “By taking
Is this a proper ground for justification? Let us see what the heed thereto according to thy word.“-Ps. 119:9. His own
Scriptures say about it? experience is given in verse 104: “Through thy precepts I get
The Lord says, “Amend your ways.“-Jer. 7:3. If our understanding; therefore I hate every false way.” The law of
ways are not right they should be amended, and not justified. God is a detecter of false ways, therefore we should test all
The weeping prophet says, “Let us search and try our ways, our ways by it. If they are n&in harmony with this rule Ict
and turn again unto the Lord.“-Lam. 3 :40. The Lord calls us not extenuate nor follow them, but “ask for the old path<.
us to consider our ways. (Hag. 1:5, 7.) By careful consid- where is the good way, and walk therein.“--Jrr. 6: 16.&PrZl.
eration our ways may not appear excusable. r
“The near& a soul, is to God, the tess its perturbations,
But the fact that certain ways are our own ways, should as the point nearest the center of a circle is subiect* to the
be no excuse for retaining them, but rather a reason for re- least m&ion.”
jecting them. If we would honor God, we would not do our “WIIATSOEVEB we bestow let it be given with a chr!erf~ll
bwn way, (Isa. 58 : 13. ) “For my ihoughts are not your countenance ; a man must not give with his hand and’ deny
thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.“- with his heart.”
Isa. 55:s. Of the wicked he says, “Destruction and misery “ABE.~~ growing in the knowledge of what Christ is to US?
are in their wavs.“-Ram. 3:16. In nleadinc with Israel he It is a happy life this: for it is not a nle~e scslf wrpt!/itrg. It
says, “Thou shilt remember thy wais and-be ashamed.“- is a process of Christ fZZZing.”
 LET TRUTH PREVAIL
DE.\B BROTHER R. :-I send you by this mail a copy of a of the San Franciscan. This is a fair sample of the spirit of
paper loaned me by an infidel neighbor. When done with it the entire interview :-
please return it to me. Question :-Do you consider that churches are injurious to
Rend the article headed “Col. Ingersoll Catechized.” Some- the community?
how I can not help feeling an interest in these honest earnest, Z~gersoZZ :-“In the exact proportion that churches teach
truth-seeking men far above what I can for the bigoted and falsehood; in the exact proportion that they destroy liberty
superstitious upholders of orthodoxy. We believe much in of the thought, free action of the human mind; in the exact
common, and 1 can not help but respect such men as Put- proportion that they teach the doctrine of eternal pain, and
nam, Ingersoll, and Chainey more than many of the preachers convince people of its truth-they are injurious. In the propor-
In Babylon. They show more candor, firmness and honesty. tion that they teach morality and justice and practice kind-
They are more noble. They manifest a better spirit, yes, such ness and charity-in that proportion they are a benefit. Every
n? Christians might well imitate. Notice Ingersoll’s reply to church, therefore, is a mixed problem-part good and part bad.
the question, “Do you consider that churches are injurious to In one direction it leads towards and sheds light; in the
the community 1” other direction its influence is entirely bad. -
What a moderate yet truthful answer is given, all of which Now I would like to civilize the churches so that they
we can accept save one word-“nliraculozcs.” would be able to do good deeds without building bad creeds.
I don’t know whether it would be prudent for you to pub- in other words, take out the superstitious and the miracu-
lish the article referred to in Z. W. T., but I feel as though I lous, and leave the human and the moral.”
would like every one of its readers to see it-knowing how The following letter from another of this class, shows how
they would appreciate the jhwels of truth with which it the snirit of candor and reasonableness is aDDreciated. And
abounds. we rgioice to know that others of doubtful hkarts have been
Truly, these are trying times for the Christian blinded by and are being led through careful study of the harmonious
the creeds. I cannot see how any of them who will think, in- Dlan of God. as we now see it. to exclaim with us “My Lord
vestigate, and read, can escape infidelity. They can’t answer ind my God;” and to trust in his precious promises. We wait
it from their standpoint. with patience the promised hour when all the doubting
How glad I am that my eyes were opened in time, else Thomases will be given tangible evidence of the truth of God.
certainly such men as Ingersoll could have converted me to Behold we bring good tidings of GREAT JOY which shall be
infidelit? The only safety for the intelligent church member to ALL PEOPLE.
is his bigotry and blindness. It keeps him orthodox, but as C. T. RUSSELL:-Dear Sir:--My wife is a subscriber to
WE see orthodoxy, it is little better than infidelity. In fact your “Watch Tower.” I am a free thinker: But I want to
both are the result of Spiritual blindness. I guess the blind- thank you for the impartial way in which you have treated
er of the two, the more bigoted, is the stickler for orthodoxy. your opponent Col. Ingersoll, in the issue of this month.
Since my return from our pleasant visit with you, I have You have done what I have never before seen in a religious
betimes felt homesick. I long to behold him in glory. I long journal-before passing criticism on what Col. Ingersoll said
for the reign of him who will scatter darkness and ignorance, in his lecture on “Orthodoxy,,’ you have squarely, honestly
and bless all with truth. and in a manly way printed what he said, and for this act
I have written in haste. of fairness, I for one wish to express my thanks. I am sir,
“Mid scenes of confusion and creature complaints, Very truly yours,
How sweet to my soul is communion with saints.‘, Truth is truth, from whatsoever source it may come; and
he who loves and cherishes the fragments which he is able
Yours, etc., to discern amidst the rubbish of prevailing error, is ever
\Ve clip the paragraph referred to by our brother from worthy of our respect and esteem. Would that all “Free-
the published interview between Mr. Ingersoll and the Editor thinkers” were free indeed. “The truth shall make you fr1.e.”

THE RIDICULOUS SITUATION

The following preamble and resolutions have been adopted ize and take some action by which they can remove the so-
by the Chicago group of the International Association; called “overmoduction.” which subiects them to the evils thnt
Whereas, many thousands of people in Chicago are hungry make exist&e precarious and life” miserable.
because of a so-called over production of food products. The Chicago Alarm, in referring to the foregoing preamble,
Whereas, There are many thousands of people in Chicago says :
in rags because of a so-called over production of clothing. “The ridiculous situation that requires men to freeze be-
Whereas, There are many thousands of people in Chicago cause there is too much coal in the country, and starve be-
who have no employment, because a few have no need of their cause there is too much bread in the country, and go naked
services. because there is too much clothing in the country, and lie
Whereas, The gamblers in bread on the Board of Trade out-doors because there are too many houses in the country,
propose to raise the price of bread by feeding the surplus cannot always continue, especially when we know that the
wheat to hogs, sheep and cattle; therefore, natural ingenuity of invention is constantly and rapidly in-
Resohed, By the International Working People’s Associa- creasing this pver-supply, glutted markets, and forced idle-
tion. that the hungry, naked, and unemployed, should organ- ness.“4ohn Swintm’s Pape-r.

NO OTHER NAME
The healing of the lame man at the Beautiful gate of the done this?” “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth,”
temple, the wondering crowd which it excited, and the rulers came the answer. Bnd then, as if forgetting the lame man
who were enraged about it, and the more so because they and his cure, the people and their amazement, the rulers and
could not deny the genuineness of the cure, all combined to their anger, together with all temporal and temporizing con-
afford the Apostles some rare opportunities to preach to the siderations, Peter swept on in thought to that larger, grander
people. It was quite another thing to seize upon and make power of the crucified Nazarene to save men from the mala-
use of the opportunities which the miracle afforded. The dies and deformities of sin, and uttered those words that
Apostles, under God’s power and guidance, were equal to both come ringing down to us through the ages: “Neither is there
demands. This time it would seem as if God had guided the salvation in any other, for there is none other name under
thoughts of the offended rulers to just those utterances which heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” Hear it,
would prepare the way for the Apostles to give voice to some all ye that need salvation. Accept him, and learn that he
of the moqt fundamental and important truths they ever pro- is able to save to the uttermost all who come to God by
clalm4. “By what authority and in what name have ye him.--Selected.

As btntcd in our TmJIS on first page, we send this paper merely accepting through us one of God’s numberless bless-
free to all who cannot pay for it and apply to be entered ings. If you appreciate the food found in the TOWER and can-
on the LORD'S POOR LIST. Such should apply at the begin- not pa? 50 cents a year, you must not be ashamed to
nlng of each year, that we may be assured of their con- receive It of the Lord gratis-this would indicate pride and
tinued interest. such pride must sooner or later give way, if you ever receive
Modesty is a Christian virtue, and while no true Christian the greater “gift of God-everlasting life-through Jesus
gentleman or lady will rudely order us thus “Send me the Christ our Lord,” who gave himself a ransom for all. Let
paper,” none on the other hand should feel that they are us remember that it is all of God-His gift through whom-
Ijegging of the publisher in accepting this offer. They are soever, or in whatever way, it is sent.
(8) Ii7061