[R399 : page 1]VOL. IV. PITTSBURGH, PA., OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER, 1882. NO. 4.
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ZION'S WATCH TOWER and Herald of Christ's Presence
ROCK OF AGES
Other foundation can
no man lay
A RANSOM FOR ALL
"Watchman, What of the Night?" "The Morning Cometh, and a Night also!" Isaiah 21:11
PUBLISHED MONTHLY. 101 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa.
C. T. RUSSELL, Editor and Publisher.
The Editor recognizes a responsibility to the Master, relative to what shall appear in these columns, which he can not and does not cast aside; yet he should not be understood as endorsing every expression of correspondents, or of articles selected from other periodicals.
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SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS. Inasmuch as this number of ZION'S WATCH TOWER will go to each of the ninety thousand Sunday School Superintendents of all denominations in the United States, it is proper for us to introduce our paper to them specially.
The special mission of ZION'S WATCH TOWER is to clearly and forcibly elucidate and present truth on all religious topics, without fear or favor of any except our heavenly Master. It is strictly unsectarian and follows no formulated creed. Its method--comparing Scripture with Scripture, we believe to be the correct one for the elucidation of truth. Thus getting God's own explanation of His will and plan, we realize that
"God is his own interpreter,
And He will make it plain."
While desirous of the esteem and fellowship of every child of God and loath to offend any, we yet stand ready to offend all, if a clear and forcible presentation of any Scriptural teaching shall have that effect. We discuss all Bible doctrines, not shunning the most abstruse--an uncommon thing among Christian journals. This feature makes our paper valuable to Sunday School Superintendents and Bible teachers, and advanced Bible scholars, in this day when infidelity is challenging nearly every doctrine held by the churches. Surely there never was a time when an open and fearless examination of every point of doctrine was so much more needed than practiced. An intelligent understanding of Scripture was never more necessary than now.
We desire to assist in this great work, and with others to raise up the standard of truth against error in every form. We make no claim to defend every theory and creed of Christendom--this would be impossible, since many of them contradict each other--but we endeavor to draw direct from Scripture its uncolored and unbiased teaching on all questions. Believing that the true basis of Christian Union is a correct understanding of God's Word, rather than an ignoring of differences, we seek for this.
This sample copy is sent you in order that if desired, it may be one of your assistants in seeking for Scriptural truths. We will send it on trial.
THREE MONTHS FREE. to all Sunday School Superintendents, teachers and Bible scholars. We therefore invite you to send in your names at once.
VIEW FROM THE TOWER. The fulfillment of Scripture prophecies as marked by the beginning of the return of Israel to Palestine, continues increasingly to have the attention of thinking Christians.
The following is extracted from a letter in an English paper by Mr. Charles Reade, the well-known novelist, whose remarkable conversion occurred last year.
THE PROPHETIC ASPECT OF THE JEWISH PERSECUTION. "The Jewish nation, though under a cloud, will eventually resume their ancient territory, which is so evidently kept waiting for them. The prophecies are clear as day on two points: That the Jews are to repossess Palestine, and indeed, to rule from Lebanon to Euphrates; and that this event is to be the first of a great series of changes leading to a vast improvement in the condition of poor suffering mankind and of creation in general. Now, we have here in prospect a glorious event as sure as the sun will rise to-morrow. The only difference is that the sun will rise at a certain hour, and the Jews will occupy Syria and resume their national glory at an uncertain day. No doubt it is the foible of mankind to assume that an uncertain date must be a distant one. But that is unreasonable. Surely it is the duty of wise and sober men to watch precursory signs and lend their humble cooperation, should so great a privilege be accorded to us.
"This sudden persecution of the Jews in the very nation where they are most numerous --may it not be a precursory sign, and a reminder from Providence that their abiding city is not in European Tartary? I almost think some such reminder was needed; for when I was a boy, the pious Jews still longed for the Holy Land. They prayed, like Daniel, with their windows open toward Jerusalem.
Yet now that the broken and impoverished Saracen would cede them territory at one-tenth of its agricultural and commercial value, a cold indifference seems to have come over them. I often wonder at this change of sentiment about so great a matter, and in so short a period, comparatively speaking, and puzzle myself, as to the reason.
Two solutions occur to me. 1. Dispersed in various nations, whose average inhabitants are inferior in intelligence and forethought to themselves, they thrive as individual aliens more than they may think so great a multitude of Jews could thrive in a land of their own, where blockheads would be scarce. 2. They have for centuries contracted their abilities to a limited number of peaceful arts and trades; they may distrust their power to diversify their abilities, and be suddenly a complete nation, with soldiers, sailors, merchants, husbandmen, as well as financiers and artists.
But it is now proved that sojourning among inferior nations has more drawbacks than living at home. True, the Russian yokel has for years been selling to the Jews his summer labor in winter, and at a heavy discount; but the improvident Russians have turned like wild beasts upon them, and outwitted lawfully, have massacred them contrary to law. Palestine can be colonized effectually from Russia alone, where there are three millions of Jews trembling for life and property; and the rest would follow. As to the second objection, history is a looking-glass at our backs. Whatever Jews have done Jews may do. They are a people [R400 : page 1] of genius; and genius is not confined by nature, but by will, by habit or by accident. What have these people tried and failed in? Warriors, writers, builders, merchants, lawgivers, husbandmen; and supreme in all! In this history repeats itself.
"They shall be great in the arts of peace and war, and their enemies melt away before them like snow off a dyke. Should they seem to require help from any other nation at starting, blessed will be the nation that proffers it; and the nation that persecutes them will be made an example of in some way or other. Therefore, if by any chance this recent outrage should decide the Jewish leaders to colonize Palestine from Russia, let us freely offer ships, seamen, money --whatever we are asked for. It will be a better national investment than Egyptian, Brazilian or Peruvian bonds."
Thus we see that from every quarter thoughtful minds are beginning to note the evidences of another great dispensational change. It is to be a gradual change from the Gospel Age into the Millennial Age. The former closes with a night, the latter commences as a dawning day. It is the day foretold by prophets when the earth and groaning creation shall be blessed and liberated from the effects of sin-blight, and death. It is the day in which "the Sun of righteousness shall arise with healing in his wings"--when the great physician shall heal and revive sin-bitten humanity. In him shall all the families of the earth be blessed.
"A thousand years, Earth's coming glory,
'Tis the glad time so long foretold;
'Tis the glad day of promise given,
Prophets foresaw in times of old."
The Gospel Age ends, not because it has failed, but because it has accomplished its object. It's object was to call out, select and perfect a small fragment of Earth's people--a "little flock" of overcomers of the world, accounted worthy to be exalted to a spiritual plane of existence and to share as the Bride of the Lamb of God, in his glorious work of blessing mankind in general during the incoming age.
Fleshly Israel was cast off from all special favor of God when this age began, and Paul assures us that when the work of selecting the spiritual church is complete, God's favor will again cover them as a people. (See Rom. 11:25-32.) The fact that favor is now beginning to come to them, is therefore an incidental proof of our position--that we are in the lapping time of the two ages.
Encouraging reports of the progress of truth come to us from every quarter. Infidels and backsliders, and wholly consecrated saints are studying the Bible more than ever before, to see if these things in which we rejoice are the teachings of the Word of God, and are coming to say of the beauty and grandeur of God's plan and word, as the Queen of Sheba said of Solomon --The half had not been told me. No, dear friends, we do not pretend to have told you half of the goodness and love and power of our infinite Father, the God of all grace. We merely try to point you to the Word as the inexhaustible fountain of truth and knowledge, that together we might be able to some extent, to comprehend with all saints, the love of God which passeth knowledge. The more of our Father's character we see, the more we feel like exclaiming with Paul, "O, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God."
And the more we come to appreciate God, and His Word and plan, the more our hearts burn with a desire to make it known to all men; especially to those dear children of our Father, who are yet as we ourselves once were, blinded by ignorance of the true teachings of His Word, and dwarfed and fettered by the traditions of men, the creeds and theories of the sects. Praise God that the light is shining more and more, and others as well as we are being blessed by it.
As we each come to see the truth, if it has its legitimate and intended effect upon our hearts and lives, it will be our delight to use all possible effort in making known the glad tidings to others: Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when he cometh shall find giving meat in due season to the household. (Matt. 24:45,46.) We should be specially interested in making it known to every consecrated child of God, many of whom are almost starved. You may have for the asking abundance of reading matter for free distribution.
A very large edition of this issue has been sent out in hope of awakening thinking Christians from the lethargy and worldliness which has so largely overspread Christendom. The topics presented will be new to many of them, and we trust that all thoroughly consecrated readers will test it, and decide on its truthfulness, not by their prejudices, not by any sectarian creed, but by the Word of God, the only proper and infallible test; remembering, that the cause of divisions or sects is, that each party defends its creed, instead of laying aside tradition or accepting the harmonious testimony of Scripture.
We subjoin a few of the many letters constantly coming to hand, that you may know of the deep interest being felt among thinking Christians.
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND.
MY DEAR SIR--Permit me, though a stranger, to assure you that I can never feel sufficiently thankful that out of the thousands of copies of your book, "Food for Thinking Christians," distributed in this town, a copy fell into my hands; apparently it was the merest accident; but really I regard it as a direct providence. It has thrown light upon subjects which have perplexed me for years, and has made me feel more than ever what a glorious book the Bible is, how worthy of our profoundest study. At the same time, I came from the study of your book with the conviction that a very large proportion of the theology of our churches and schools is the merest scraps of human notions, and that our huge systems of theology, upon the study of which some of us have spent so many laborious years--only to be the worse confused and perplexed--are infinitely more the work of mistaken men, than the inspiration of the allwise God.
However I may differ from the book in a few minor details, I found the main argument to be resistless, commending itself to both my head and my heart. Again let me thank you on my own behalf for the good I have received.
I find at the close of it you make an offer to send copies to any who have reason to believe they can make a good use of them. In my church and congregation there is a number of intelligent persons who are interested in the second coming, and who would be only too glad to read your book. I could distribute seventy copies with advantage. You say, "Ask and ye shall receive." I have faith in your generosity. Believe me to remain
Yours most faithfully, __________ page 1
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY.
GENTLEMEN--Having read with the most profound interest your publication entitled, "Food for Thinking Christians," and being fairly dazzled by the wonderful light it reveals on the great subject, I find myself thirsting for more knowledge from this seemingly inspired pen.
Therefore in accordance with the invitation extended by you on the cover of this little work I ask that you send me a few copies of "The Tabernacle and its Teachings."
With reference to the first-named book, permit me to say that I have never yet read or heard anything equal to that little volume in its influence upon my heart and life; and, to my mind, it answers most grandly and conclusively the great question, "Is life worth living?" Such views as it sets forth are bound to find response in the minds and hearts of all unbiased thinking Christians, for they bear the stamp of something greater than mere human conception. I only wish we could hear it from the pulpits; but I think this must shortly follow. It is good seed, and in its "due time" will come forth.
Believe me, I am Very truly yours, __________ page 2
MIXERVILL, INDIANA.
"ZION'S WATCH TOWER"--My dear good friends:--Your kind favor, "Food for Thinking Christians," reached me in due time. To say that it is an exceeding welcome gift but feebly expresses my appreciation and gratitude. I have learned what I never knew before, and it has brought to me such a flood of light that I am amazed at the grandeur of the scheme and plan of redemption. To allow the phrase, I have literally devoured it, and my soul is ravished with the indescribable excellency and magnitude of God's plan of salvation. Oh, how dull and blunted does now appear the common method of Christian instruction. Who can read these things and longer doubt and waver about the truth, beauty and inspiration of the Bible, or the manner in which its glorious truths should be inculcated and demonstrated. I trust and believe that the great Author of the Word will prosper and bless you abundantly. Whatever else you have of like nature for grateful hearts I trust you will favor your present correspondent with.
Yours truly, __________
AUSTINTOWN, O.
DEAR BRO.--The publication entitled "Food for Thinking Christians," was duly received a few weeks ago, and I have carefully distributed the greater portion of them among such as would appreciate such teachings; and they all speak volumes of praise. It is indeed food for Christians--rich food. Would to God we could only have the whole world read and fully understand. May God bless the work, and may the blessed seed sown sink deep in each and every heart, and bear much fruit to the honor and glory of God.
Yours, etc. __________
MT. CARMEL, INDIANA.
MY DEAR BROTHER--I have long felt a desire for some communication in reference to those blessed matters that make us one in our Supreme Head. I have been made better acquainted with the way of life recently. The new food has revived my slumbering spirit and given me a keener desire for a knowledge of the Word of God, and better understanding of his ways and dealings. I have been so absorbed with these delightful matters that the things of this present life sink into comparative insignificance. I can now comprehend the Apostle's exclamation, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God, how unsearchable are his righteous acts and his ways past tracing out." How privileged and responsible are those who are made watchmen upon the towers of Zion, to give warning, guidance and instruction to those who are seeking and willing to accept truth at all hazards; pointing out to us the dangerous reefs and rocks, and the hidden shoals and sandbars.
O that all would search for and receive present truth, with all its joyful satisfaction and the comforting assurances and instructions constantly afforded--the near or full completion of the Body of Christ to spread universally the "good tidings of great joy;" the presence of the glorious Head of the Church, the grand parousia, the returning. Blessed thought, can anything be more exhilarating than these and other kindred blessed assurances, and the ineffable glory of the whole church which is to follow. Haste, haste, thou blessed time of glory, when the anointed one shall reign and all powers but his shall end....
Truly your brother in the Lord. __________
GOD'S "LITTLE WHILE." Because of the shortness of human life, we act quickly ourselves and expect others to act so, and we can scarcely avoid carrying the same thought with us when we go to the investigation of God's Word.
We read--"Yet a little while, and He that shall come, will come." Heb. 10:37, We think, as we look back at the eighteen centuries which have elapsed since our Lord's first advent, that it is not a "little while." No, to us it is a long while. Our ideas of long and short periods are drawn from our experience. When you were a child you thought as a child; you impatiently looked at an hour as a long time, and a year seemed an age if it intervened between you and some coveted object or enjoyment. Since you have grown to manhood or womanhood years are short; how quickly they fly. Your plans and arrangements reach out and embrace numbers of them.
We see then that a long time and a "little while" are accommodative terms, to be understood in harmony with the standpoint of the one using them. When Paul used these words he was God's mouthpiece, therefore the word is God's--and it is from His standpoint, in whose sight "a thousand years are but as yesterday," and "as a watch in the night." If we remember that He is from everlasting to everlasting, we can readily see, that eighteen hundred years are but "a little while" to Him. In His sight it is only "a little while" since He created Adam. Let us not be so impatient; there is plenty of time in eternity.
If we can get this standpoint of time-- God's standpoint--it will assist us to see how "the Lord is not slack concerning His promises." When God promised Eve that her seed should bruise the serpent's head, she doubtless supposed that God's promise had failed when one of her sons was slain and the other had become a branded murderer; and when Seth was born, as his name indicates, she thought him the promised seed. She came to death, and yet saw not God's promise fulfilled. Ages rolled on, generations came and went, Moses and Israel read the promise, but saw no fulfillment. Had it failed? No, four thousand years after Jesus appeared on earth; suffered, died, arose, ascended. Was the promise fulfilled? No, only in part. Satan's head (vital part) is not yet crushed; he rears it higher than ever; his control is greater perhaps than ever before. Does God's promise mean less than it says? No, give Him more time; it is only "a little while" since he promised, and "in due time" it will all be fulfilled. Because He saw that we would wonder whether He is "slack concerning His promises;" and because Jesus counts us His friends ("I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you." Jno. 15:15), therefore He kindly gives us through Paul, a clue as to how and when this promise will be fulfilled. Rom. 16:20, reads: "The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly."
This is the same promise made to Eve, and though Jesus had died, Paul well knew that Satan was not yet bruised.
But God has not forgotten his promise; He will perform, but when? "Shortly." Ah, God's "little while" again. But why say under your feet? What had the Christians at Rome to do with bruising Satan? Had God's Word not said the seed should do it? And was not Christ this seed? Yes, Jesus is the head over this seed, but we are members of the body under this head, as we read: "The God of our Lord Jesus Christ...gave Him to be the head over all things to the Church, which is His body." Eph. 1:17-22. He is the head...that in all things He might have the pre-eminence. Col. 1:18.
Satan was permitted to bruise Jesus, the head. "He was bruised for our iniquity." He was made perfect through suffering, and we, the members of the body, must suffer with Him if we would be made perfect. We must "fill up the measure of the afflictions of Christ." The head suffered most, but we must be sharers of the suffering, if we would be glorified together.
Therefore, "count it all joy," and "think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that when ("a little while," "shortly") His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad, also, with exceeding joy." 1 Pet. 4:12,13. Yes, we shall share in the "glory that shall follow," and part of that glory shall be to crush the serpent. Now he bruises our heel. (Ours are not vital wounds, they will all heal.) We shall crush his head (a vital part, indicating the utter extinction of evil--when death shall be destroyed, and "him that hath the power of death, that is the devil.") As this has required time for its accomplishment, so have almost all the promises of God. Take
THE PROMISE TO ABRAHAM. God had promised and sworn to Abraham that his seed should be as the sand of the sea --innumerable--and Abraham believed it; but as years rolled on he and Sarah thought it a long time. They were getting old, and yet had no child. Finally, they concluded to help God to fulfill his promise. How many Christians want to FORCE a construction on prophecy, in order to help God out of a supposed dilemma, and help him to fulfill his word. Let us rather wait on the Lord.
"God is his own interpreter,
And he will make it plain."
Yes, they would help God to keep his word, and as Sarah was too old, her maid must bear the promised seed. This was a human way to fulfill, but God waited fifteen years until they were both old, so that both Abraham and Sarah laughed when they were told that they should yet have a son Isaac. "After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure my lord, being old also?" But the answer was: "Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the time APPOINTED... Sarah shall have a son."
O, that we could learn that--
"It may not be my time,
It may not be thy time,
And yet in His own time,
The Lord will perform."
Ages have rolled around, yet the seed of Abraham, although a nation and partially possessing Canaan for a time, have never yet had those promises to Abraham FULFILLED.
"I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee." "And I will give unto thee and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession."
But Paul shows us that there was a deeper meaning than the surface promise couched in the utterances of God to the seed of Abraham. Not only the fleshly children, but the children of faith have a share.
"Now, to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds as of many; but as of one, 'And to thy seed'--which is Christ."...And if ye be Christ's (if you have been "baptised into Christ, put on Christ," become "members of His body," if ye be the antitypical bride of the Lamb"), then (and only then, no other way), are ye Abraham's SEED and HEIRS; according to promise." Gal. 3:14 and 29. Jesus individually is the heir of all, and we by nature have no claims of heirship, but by our union (marriage) with Him we become heirs--joint-heirs (united) with Jesus Christ our Lord or husband.
Here again we realize that God's "little while" is to man a great while; but surely and steadily the members of the body of Christ are being developed, and in due time they will be united to their Head, and with Him glorified--constituting in the complete sense "the seed"--and then, never fully until then, can it be true of Abraham and his seed:--"In thee shall all nations be blessed." (Gal. 3:8.) Then "A king shall reign in righteousness and princes shall rule in judgment and under that righteous reign and rule "all the families of the earth shall be blessed," for then "the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the whole earth." But there, are
PROMISES TO THE NATURAL SEED,
as well as to the spiritual. They never have and do not now possess Canaan as an "everlasting possession." The prophets tell us that "the Lord shall yet choose Jerusalem." Zech. 1:17. "I will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem;" it "shall be called a city of truth." "The streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing." "If it be marvelous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these days, should it also be marvelous in mine eyes, saith the Lord of hosts?" Zech. 8:3-6. "In that time....I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem." "Then shall Jerusalem be holy." Joel 3:1-17.James shows that these promises lacked fulfillment. Acts 15:16. After showing the object of the Gospel age to be the taking out of the Gentiles, a people for His name--the Bride--His body, the seed, after recounting this, James says: "To this agree the words of the prophets [or this is in harmony with prophecy."] "As it is written, 'After this' [after the seed is taken from among the Gentiles] 'I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down, and I will build again the ruins thereof.'" Yes, God has good things in reserve for his ancient people, and as Paul says, though they were "blinded" and "cut off" from the first position of heirs of those promises, yet, "God hath not cast away His people whom He foreknew." "For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel." How long, Paul? "Until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in." [That is, until the entire Church, which James says God is taking out of the Gentiles, have all been taken out and gathered into full sonship, as the seed of promise.] And if they are blinded only until that time, it is evident that at that time the blindness will be removed. But Paul continues, "and so all Israel shall be saved," [not saved eternally as individuals, but saved--rescued nationally --brought back to power and grandeur.] But Paul goes to the prophets as his authority. "As it is written, there shall come out of Zion the Deliverer [the seed, the Christ, head and body], and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob [fleshly Israel] for this is my covenant unto them." Paul then gives us his reasons for speaking so confidently, "For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance." God's giving us the high calling, and the promises on the higher plane, does not interfere with or hinder His keeping His promise to the fleshly seed, but all the more guarantees it.
Then he explains how it is that we, who were once Gentiles, had God's mercy and truth revealed to us, when and because natural Israel was blinded; so we obtained mercy through their unbelief; so these have not believed that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. Through whose mercy? Yours, the Church's, when the Church is all taken out and glorified, she is with Christ, her head, her husband, to mercifully and justly rule the world; then Israel shall obtain your mercy. Rom. 11:2-25.
O, that we could realize that every promise of God is sure, in His own due time; it would give us childlike trust and confidence for everything; and not to accept them as all sure is to make God a liar.
Paul, as he looked forward and realized how in due time every jot and tittle should be fulfilled, and saw the greatness and majesty of God's plan, breaks forth in ecstasy and exclaims, "O, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!" "Who hath known the mind of the Lord?" [Who knew that God's plan was so comprehensive and full?] And our hearts can say, Amen.
God knows the end from the beginning, and looking at the great clock of the ages, declares to us that the things we so much desire shall be "shortly," "yet a little while," and the glory, power and blessing of the promised Seed will be revealed to all. Let us look at things from his standpoint, and so
"Let the little while between
In its golden light be seen."
KNOWLEDGE IS LIBERTY. When Luther discovered how fully Papacy filled the picture given by Paul in 2 Thes. 2:3-8, and the symbols of Rev. 17, he felt justified by that knowledge in publicly denouncing that system. The knowledge gave him the liberty to thunder the truth of God with all its power against the Vatican. God gave the liberty by giving the knowledge, and Luther would have been unworthy the knowledge and the honor of being the Lord's mouthpiece, had he been too cowardly to speak, though Papacy was the system then recognized and respected by the world.
Knowledge of the truth and law, was the ground of Jesus' liberty in denouncing the doctors of divinity in his day as "blind guides," etc. It was Paul's knowledge of Christ's having made an end of the law, that gave him liberty to announce the end of the necessity of circumcision in the flesh, and that authorized him to say of the Jewish holy days and Sabbaths that they were merely shadows. (Col. 2:17.)
And some wonder at our liberty in speaking of many things similar to the above, viz., that as an organization the nominal Gospel church is rejected of the Lord, as was her type, the Jewish church; that we speak so confidently of the tribulation coming upon her, and apply the words "Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins and receive not of her plagues"; that we apply some of the symbols of Revelation without a question to her; that we so unhesitatingly and fully accept the exceeding great and precious promises of Glory, Honor, Immortality and Divinity. They wonder that we brethren are not in darkness, as most are, relative to "the day of the Lord" in which we live (1 Thes. 5:4); that we lay any claim to a knowledge of "things to come" which Jesus told us would be an evidence of our being sons, led by the Spirit of God. (John 16:13.)
But the liberty which we exercise is inspired by a knowledge of and belief in the word of God. "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you FREE." (John 8:32.) And as in Luther's and Paul's day, so now those too indolent or too cowardly to express truth which they see, prove both by word and act that they are unworthy of the knowledge, and consequently they are left in darkness. Jesus says, "Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the son of man be ashamed when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." (Mark 8:38.)
"HOW READEST THOU?"
LUKE 10:16.'Tis one thing now to read the Bible through,
Another thing to read, to learn and do;
'Tis one thing now to read it with delight,
And quite another thing to read it right.
Some read it with design to learn to read,
But to the subject pay but little heed;
Some read it as their duty once a week,
But no instruction from the Bible seek.
Whilst others read it without common care,
With no regard to how they read nor where.
Some read it as a history to know
How people lived three thousand years ago.
Some read to bring themselves repute,
By showing others how they can dispute;
Whilst others read because their neighbors do,
To see how long 'twill take to read it through.
Some read it for the wonders that are there,
How David killed a lion and a bear;
Whilst others read--or rather in it look,
Because, perhaps, they have no other book.
Some read the blessed Book--they don't know why,
It somehow happens in the way to lie;
Whilst others read it with uncommon care,
But all to find some contradictions there.
One reads with father's specs upon his head,
And sees the thing just as his father did;
Another reads through Campbell or through Scott,
And thinks it means exactly what they thought.
Some read to prove a pre-adopted creed,
Thus understand but little what they read;
And every passage in the book they bend
To make it suit that all important end.
Some people read as I have often thought
To teach the Book instead of being taught.
NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL.
"I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first and also to the Greek." --Rom. 1:16.These words like all of Paul's words in general, are fitly spoken and are like "apples of gold in pictures of silver." Gospel signifies good tell, good news, glad tidings, something to make one rejoice and be glad; it must have been something of very great importance, something far-reaching in its nature, something supremely grand and glorious, for it had wrought a most wonderful change in Paul. He had not always been of the opinion which he now expresses, for he had persecuted those of "this way" even unto strange cities, and when they were put to death, he gave his voice against them.
What had caused this change in the mind of the apostle?
Surely the gospel had not changed in its character; no, but he had become better acquainted with it. That is the way it ever is with the world: the better they are acquainted with the gospel of Christ, the better opinion they have of it, and the higher they value it. Paul was expecting soon to visit Rome, that imperial city, the mistress of the world, and of course if he spoke in public he wished to talk about something which he was not ashamed of, and this he declared was the thing: "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ." Paul proved the truth of his assertion not only by his words, but by his actions as well.
The mighty mind of Paul, in its natural sweep immense, saw THAT in the gospel of Christ which was infinitely above and beyond everything else. If he could have seen how man, through the blinding effects of pride, and superstition, would have finally come to consider the gospel of Christ--if he could have stood upon the orthodox platform of our day and have looked out upon the pile of "wood, hay, stubble," which is built on the foundation, Christ, can any one suppose he would have been able to say he was not ashamed of it? If the "mother church," which is proud of calling [R403 : page 3] him her patron saint, and after whom many of her churches are named, should through some of her dignitaries expound to him the doctrines of penance, papal succession, confession of sins to the priest and absolution, the state of the dead in purgatory, etc., can we suppose that he would indorse them and say of them, "I am not ashamed?"
If some one were to represent to him the doctrine of predestination as held by our Calvinistic brethren, and undertake to prove it by Paul's own writings in Rom. 8:29,33: "For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his son," etc., and again in Rom. 9:15,24: "I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion," etc., and conclude from it that God from all eternity planned to bring into being a few, favored with advantages of every sort-- birth in a Christian land, surrounded by Christian influences, and upheld by Christian associations and the particular favor of God; but the large majority by the same eternal decree were born in the darkness of corrupt hereditary taint and association, and although they may have dim perceptions of God and truth, and may desire to know him, yet, though they may groan and strive, and turn their tear-dimmed eyes toward heaven, with untold longings, yet they shall go into a night of eternal anguish, "without one cheering ray of hope, or star of glimmering day," and the righteous from their exalted seats in glory shall look on this display of God's wisdom, and justice, and power, and praise him for this manifestation of his love.
This has its good features. It shows God's omniscience. This would be our ideal of a great God were it not that it lacks three essential qualities of greatness, viz.: mercy, love, and justice. None of these qualities would be manifested in bringing into the world billions of creatures irrecoverably damned before they were born and mocked with protestations of love.
Is it possible that any thinking man can suppose that Paul would endorse this-- that this was what he was not ashamed of? But would he look with more favor upon the view of our Arminian brother, who should say to him: that although the decree was made as our Calvinistic brother has stated, yet the provision was for all to be saved, the ransom was provided for all, but the secret of it is in the words of Jesus, ye "will not come unto me that ye might have life." The table was spread and bountifully provided for all, but they "would not and made light of it;" not taking into account the fact that more than nine-tenths of them never knew that there was any supper provided for them, that is to say, that infinite wisdom decreed that a certain number only should be informed of it, and be at the table, but had it set for ten times as many as he knew would be there to sup, and because they were not there, consigned them to eternal torment. Acting upon this basis of reasoning, if such it is, our Arminian brethren have sent as many missionaries as possible to tell the starving millions that there is a supper provided so that the poor creatures who are fortunate enough to hear of it may come and welcome, but those who do not must starve.
But this when looked at squarely, our Arminian brethren cannot see to be very good news, and so sometimes they conclude (though not in a very orthodox way) that these unfortunate millions who never heard of the gospel, will be provided for "in some way or other," (a good conviction). Can we think this is the gospel which Paul had in mind when he said, "I am not ashamed of the gospel? Nay, verily!
But there is still another view that has seemingly strong scriptural support, and this includes all men; this surely is a free gospel and universal, and Paul is supposed to be its strong supporter, for he has given that which is the key note in the promulgation of it, viz.: "As in Adam ALL die, EVEN so in Christ shall ALL be made alive." 1 Cor. 15:22. So our Universalist brother infers from this that in some way, in the hour of death, or before, or after, by some means, whether sinful or holy, everybody, everywhere shall be saved; and why not? He says, did not Christ by the grace of God taste death for every man? And if so did he die in vain for any man? But our brother of this opinion would not probably dwell with as much satisfaction upon the passage, Without holiness no man shall see the Lord, Heb. 12:14, and would prefer that murderers and pickpockets should occupy a separate apartment in the "many mansions." (Here again conviction almost arrives at truth).
Now candidly, can we suppose that these views, which we think, in a plain-spoken way, we have fairly represented as being the views held by the churches in general, regarding the gospel, are the views held by Brother Paul when he uttered the words we have referred to? We cannot think so, and we do think that few, if any, who reflect are perfectly satisfied that either of these were the views which he held. Then do you stand back aghast and say: Can it be possible that all this is error that we have been taught so long, and that has so much seeming support from the Bible? Do you say, impossible? Then which is your choice, and which is good news to you? Can you walk out beneath the starry heavens at night and looking up into illimitable space among the exhibitions of infinite wisdom and power, and there alone in the presence of God lay your hand upon either one of these dogmas and say, I believe THIS is the gospel of Christ, of which Paul was not ashamed?
Well, my dear brother or friend, these dogmas are not all errors, neither are they all truth. Like the confederation of States, to which has been proudly attached the gospel of which Paul was not ashamed are "E Pluribus Unum," i.e., one composed of many. We understand then that the gospel, of which Paul spoke, embraces in its scope many of the ideas held by each of our brethren to whom reference has been made, and for whose opinions we have respect, but we cannot think that either of them is complete alone, and we believe that either of the churches who think that its plan or creed is the only and true one, while so much at variance with the others, has done much to make the man of the world who is uninformed reject the instrument (the Bible) upon which he thinks so many variant tunes can be played. With force then the question recurs to us: what was the gospel or good news of which Paul was not ashamed? What was the great and glorious thought connected with the gospel that he had in mind?
Paul's was a critical and calculating mind, and his inspired thoughts were stamped with that peculiarity. He "reckons" about his sufferings; he "counted all things loss," etc., etc. In this case he is "not ashamed of the gospel," for (the reason that) it is "the power of God," something above and beyond all human institutions, something that the world, the mind of the natural man never would have thought of, something supernatural, yes, and something from which the mind of man (if left to itself) would soon wander; and that is evidently why these truths have been torn asunder, and the different parties in the church have each taken a piece, and upon it built a superstructure of its own, much of it, the "wood, hay, and stubble," to which Paul refers in 1 Cor. 3:12. Each of these, according to our understanding, has already begun to be swept away or to be burned up, and "the day" which "shall declare it" is even now begun we fully believe, (vs. 13). We feel convinced that the fire which is to consume the world (of error) is even "now kindled."
But, says one, where is the disagreement? Do we not all believe that this gospel is the power of God unto salvation? (To every one that believeth, our Arminian brother breaks in, but he must wait a little). Well, they say so, but in practice deny it. Our Calvinistic brother says "unto salvation," and adds (in creed) of a few, and unto damnation of the many, i.e., power to save all, will to save a few. Our Arminian brother can emphasize the will of God to save, but whispers the power, for O! man opposes His will. Our Universalist brother can declare aloud both will and power, and take all into glory.
Let us illustrate the difference between our brethren, and suppose three natives of some foreign land, who were totally unacquainted with the design or nature of the national emblem, "the stars and stripes," were to call at different times upon the American Consul in that land, and he was to present to one a portion of the flag as a memento, having only the red, at another time, to another one, a portion having only the white, and still another having only the blue, each might suppose that his portion represented in color the whole, and contend that because the representative of the nation gave it to him, he was sure that was the true color, and so of each of the others, while the fact would be that each was right in supposing that he had the true color, but erred in the supposition that he had the only color, when it was composed of "red, white, and blue," and that in a specific proportion.
Now, our Calvinistic brother sees so clearly that predestination is taught in the scriptures, that he cannot see that there is a universal salvation; and our Arminian brother sees so clearly that there is salvation provided for all, that he cannot see that there is clearly taught the doctrine of predestination and election; and our Universalist brother sees so clearly that all will be saved, that his conception of God's Love overrides that of His Justice.
But, says one, you seem to agree with each, and disagree with each; how is this? They cannot all be right and wrong at the same time. Well, not altogether right, but partly so, as in the illustration. We are glad to see that each has enough ground for his belief to awaken our sympathy and respect. Respect for what Paul would have been ashamed of? No, we did not say that [R404 : page 3] Paul was ashamed of these brethren, but of the doctrines or creeds that have come to be considered the gospel.
Well, says our Calvinistic brother, is not Predestination or Election clearly taught in the Scriptures?
Yes, my brother, yes. Well, says my Arminian brother, is not free will as clearly taught? Yes, my brother; we so understand.
And is not universal salvation as clearly taught? says my Universalist brothers and we answer, we think and believe so.
Perhaps all of these brethren, including the Papist brother, cares to hear no more; if so, perhaps some "fool for Christ's sake" will, so we will say on and consider the last question first. We consider our Universalist brother's text, "As in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive, 1 Cor. 15:22, as unanswerable as regards the universality of salvation: If there were not another text in the Bible to teach it, that would. It seems to us that nothing can be plainer, and for this reason other Scripture somewhat obscure must in some way harmonize with it, and so of each of the other texts quoted by our brethren as teaching the doctrines of "Election" and "Free will," or Arminianism. In the above text, we think no one would undertake to make the word "all" in the second place mean less than in the first, especially when the first is followed and the latter preceded by the words "even so." The misunderstanding seems to be as to the kind or mode of life. "As in Adam all die;" how do all die by Adam? To answer it correctly, first conclude how all lived by Adam. Not spiritual life, was it? Human life and its continuance CONDITIONED on obedience, was it not? Then he (and all represented in him) lost no more than that, and "even so" he (and "all" represented in him) will be made alive by Christ, the second Adam. But, says one, is that all the life we get through Christ? That is all the universal salvation we can find held out to mankind in the Bible, and that we think is "very good." God said it was, but thank God there is something more, but if any wish to stop there, God has predestinated to let them, but if they have heard of the higher life, and neglected so great salvation, theirs will be an irreparable loss.
Then you think, says one, that there are different degrees of salvation? O, yes; let us read on a little further (23d ver.): "But every man in his own order, Christ the first fruits, afterward they that are Christ's at His coming."
Having seen that there are orders or ranks of being, as is also shown by the apostle in the 39th verse and onward, we can see that it does not follow that because all are made alive through Christ, they will therefore come finally to the same kind of being, but are brought to life and take position according to "order," for "As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy; and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly." (ver. 48).
With this view, that there are different orders, and that all are brought to the restoration of what was lost in Adam, we can see how there may be a will in man to gain a position in any given order, and how there may be a selection, "Election," or "Predestination" (whichever you choose to call it) of God from among his creatures of those who are qualified or fitted for the different grades, orders, or ranks of being. He has predestinated, or established a law, that, "to those who by patient continuance in well doing SEEK for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life" shall be given. Rom. 2:7. "But unto them that are contentious, and obey not the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish to every soul of man that doeth evil," (verses 8 and 9). Now who disobey? Those who know the truth surely. You do not consider your child as disobedient until it transgresses a known command; neither does God, for "like as a father pitieth his children so the Lord pitieth them that fear him." Many fear him who do not know much about him, and do not know what is commanded, or whether he has commanded anything or not. Such cannot, of course, obey the truth, nor come under wrath, but will come to life (not eternal), the life lost in Adam without any will or choice of theirs. It was for this purpose that "He by the grace of God should taste death for every man." Heb. 2:9. And God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Yes, "WHEN we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son." Rom. 5:8-10.
But does some one say, very well, but Paul says here of the gospel, that it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth?
Ah, but brother, now you are reaching that point in the mind and teaching of the apostle in which is embraced another rank or "order": the power of GOD UNTO; we do not imagine that the power of God is staid at all when man is brought back to the Adamic condition; that is, to a reconciled condition; he lost that life without previously [R404 : page 4] knowing the nature of sin or death. True, God told him, but like children without experience, they disobeyed, and his posterity die for it, or because of it; whether they sin or not they all go down in death because of the sin of Adam which "taints us all," and come up because of the righteousness of Christ that restores us all. We die on Adam's account, and live again on Christ's account. Now brought back to the Adamic condition we are reconciled to God. Well, is there anything more for us? Yes, hear the apostle again: "Much more being reconciled we shall be saved by his life." 10th verse. What! Saved more? Yes, much more by the power of God unto salvation. Will all men be saved much more? We are sorry to part company with any, but though this is a blessed restored condition, yet we shall have to leave on this plane those who do not believe, for this much more salvation is to every one that believeth. Now my Calvinistic and Arminian brothers stand by and see the beauty of those texts which you have had to stretch and twist so. You need not stretch them now; they are all right and true. "Whom he did foreknow" would be fitted by desire, and faith, and continuance in well doing, each and severally for the different orders, "He predestinated" them to, and so this gospel, GOOD news is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth--to the Jew first and also to the Greek." Why to the Jew first? ("He is not a Jew which is one outwardly," "but he is a Jew, which is one inwardly." Rom. 2:28-29), because he believes first, here, in time to reach the great salvation. Dear brethren, let us desire more, study God's word more, believe more, and have the "much more" salvation. "Eye hath not seen nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit, for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things of God." 1 Cor. 2:9-10.
J. C. SUNDERLIN.
THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD.
"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." 1 Pet. 2:9."Unto him that loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever." Rev. 1:5,6.
"And hast made us unto our God kings and priests; and we shall reign on the earth." Rev. 5:10.
"Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years." Rev. 20:6.
The above scriptures clearly teach that a part, at least, of our work in the future will be to officiate as the priests of God. As the work of a priest is one of intercession and of instruction in righteousness, they clearly prove that the glorious work of evangelization will go on after the resurrection has taken place. The fact that these offices of "king" and "priest" will exist, logically implies that there will be subjects to rule and learners to teach; otherwise the names would be meaningless and the titles an empty sound.
It is held by some that the reign of the saints will consist of a very brief "reign of terror," during which--with Jesus at their head--they will trample their enemies into the dust and utterly destroy them. We thank our dear Lord for a better hope. Our work will not be one of destruction, but of salvation. We shall rule as kings, even with a rod of iron; but the grand object will be to humble the nations, and so fit them for the reception of truth. "For, when thy judgments are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn righteousness." Isa. 26:9.
What a blessed prospect! what a glorious calling! A royal priesthood!
Who that is imbued with the spirit of the Master; who that has but tasted that the Lord is gracious, could desire more agreeable employment than to show forth the praises of our Saviour King, to those sitting in darkness? to bind up the brokenhearted? to proclaim liberty to the captive? to give beauty for ashes and the oil of joy for mourning?
"To tell the old, old story[R405 : page 4]
Of Jesus and His love?"
To fit us for such an exalted and responsible position we require a peculiar training, and we feel warranted in claiming that the trials, temptations and discipline of this present life are for that very purpose.
Many a struggling believer, trying hard to overcome, buffeted by the enemy, tried by friends, weighed down by hereditary weaknesses in self, discouraged and faint, has cried out, from the depths of a loving heart: "Why, O! why this suffering? why this severe chastisement?" Let us glance for a moment at the pathway trod by the Master--our forerunner--and we shall find the answer.
"So, also, Christ glorified not Himself to be made a high priest; but He that said unto Him, Thou art my son...Who in the days of His flesh, when He had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto Him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that He feared: Though He were a son, yet learned he obedience by the things which He suffered, and being made perfect, He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him." Heb. 5:5-9.
"For it became Him, for whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. Wherefore in all things it behooveth Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted." Heb. 2:10,17-18.
"For we have not a High Priest who cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Heb. 4:15,16.
The reason, then, that the Church is called on to fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ is, that all the body, in like manner to the Head, may be trained to perfect sympathy and to perfect obedience through suffering. In this present time, we in all our troubles come to our compassionate High Priest with boldness, realizing that He, having been partaker of flesh and blood, can truly feel for us and pity us; so in the age to come, we, the promised seed of Abraham, through whom all the families of the earth shall be blessed (compare Gen. 12:3; Gal. 3:14,16,29;) shall go forth a royal priesthood, according to the order of Melchisedec, fully prepared to sympathize with the nations, to lead them to the paths of righteousness, and to encourage them in the way of life.
Shall we shrink then from our cross? Shall we seek to put away the bitter cup that is sometimes pressed to our lips? Surely not. 'Tis a loving hand that presents it, 'tis a loving heart (infinitely loving) that sees the need of it. It is but the Master fitting us for His work; training us for the priesthood; teaching us to rule ourselves that we may know how to rule others; opening our eyes to the weakness of our own flesh, that we may have patience with those over whom we shall be given authority. (Luke 19:17,19.)
Courage, then, my Christian brother or sister, seeking with weary step to run the narrow way. Heed not the rugged course; it is all hallowed and sanctified by the blessed feet of the Master. Count every thorn a flower; every sharp rock a milestone, hurrying you onward to the goal. Let every advancing step be a "Nearer to Thee": every hillock in the road an "upward toward heaven." Keep your eye fixed on the prize. Soon--very soon--you may wear the Crown.
"It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with him; if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him."
W. I. MANN.
CONSECRATION TO A WORK. Among Christians there is much which passes for "entire consecration to God," which is in fact a consecration to some self-imposed work.
Some are consecrated and are living sacrifices to business, some to their families, some to the temperance work, some to building up a denominational church or Sunday school, some to ministering to the poor and the sick. Some of these works are good enough in their way, but none of them are the proper consecration for a follower of Jesus.
Our consecration, like that of Jesus, should be to do the will of our Father in Heaven. Jesus says he came not to do his own will, but the will of Him that sent him. (John 6:38.) The fact that you have any choice or preference as to what you shall do, is an evidence in itself, that your will is not dead--that your consecration to God is not complete.
Consecration to a work of our own choosing merely, will never bring us to the great reward. "I beseech you, brethren, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable UNTO GOD." Then, if He sends you into the "temperance work," or into any other work, it will be acceptable as unto the Lord.
If seeking only to do his will it will bring us to His Word much and often, to learn that will, and "He that seeketh findeth." We leave the subject here, merely suggesting that thus seeking, after thus consecrating, some who are now--laboring chiefly for "the meat that perisheth" or Temperance and moral reforms in the world, or for the extension of sectarian church influence, would find directions something like the following:
This is the will of God even YOUR sanctification. (1 Thes. 4:3.) Do good unto all men [in any way] as you have opportunity especially to the household of faith. (Gal. 6:10.) The great harvest field of the Gospel Age is white to harvest. This is the "special" work of the hour, and every one who realizes it fully, will rejoice in the privilege of being numbered among the reapers as well as among the reaped. Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together (Heb. 10:25.) but meet for the purpose of "BUILDING UP YOURSELVES on your most holy faith." (Jude 20.)
A SHORT SERMON FROM A FAMILIAR TEXT.
"God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16.)We learned this text so long ago, some of us in childhood, and have heard it so often, that we are now apt to read or hear it without noticing its breadth and depth.
"God so loved."
Is this true? Orthodoxy says it was Jesus that so loved the world. The Father did not love them; no, he was angry, very angry with them, because Satan was too smart for him [We feel ashamed to have to write such an idea]; but Jesus loved us, and threw himself between us and his angry Father, and thus received the fatal blow; at least it would have been fatal to us, but Jesus being God, could not really die, and so arose when he wished to.
How much better to believe that "God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners [enemies, verse 10] Christ died for us." (Rom. 5:8.) "Herein is love; not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins." (1 John 4:10.)
"God so loved the WORLD."
What! the world? the whole world? This would be blessed news indeed, if true. How is it? The nominal church teaches that only those who believe before the second coming of Christ--probably not one in one thousand of the world's inhabitants so far--can be saved. God's Word tells us that through the Abrahamic seed shall "all the families of the earth be blessed." (Gen. 12:3.) What if the promise has not been fulfilled as yet? Can we not wait God's time? Paul tells us that God "will have ALL men to be saved [from the Adamic death] and to come unto a knowledge of the truth." What truth? That Christ Jesus "gave himself a ransom for ALL, to be testified in due time." (1 Tim. 2:4,6.)
"He gave his only-begotten Son."
This phraseology brings us into conflict with an old theory, viz., Trinitarianism. If that doctrine is true, how could there be any Son to give? A begotten Son, too? Impossible. If these three are one, did God send himself? And how could Jesus say: "My Father is greater than I." (John 14:28.)
"Whosoever believeth in him."
Whatsoever is not of faith is sin; and the promises are only to believers. But does it seem reasonable that God so loved the world and yet made provision for only one out of a thousand, allowing the rest to remain in heathenism to perish? The Word says: "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" (Rom. 10:14.) They could not, but our loving Father has provided a teacher in that glorious Anointed One--Head and body--who is the true Light which lighteth EVERY MAN that cometh into the world." And thus shall all men "come unto a knowledge of the truth." Understanding this, Paul could say: "The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached [R406 : page 4] before the gospel [good news] unto Abraham, saying: "In thee shall all nations be blessed." (Gal. 3:8.)
This is good news indeed.
"Should not perish, but have everlasting life."
So-called orthodoxy would paraphrase this sentence thus: Should not live forever in hell, but have everlasting life in heaven. Webster gives the primary meaning of "perish" as "to die, to lose life in any manner." But, says some one, Jesus did not speak English, and the translators may not have given us a good equivalent for the Greek. Well, Liddell and Scott define the original word "to destroy utterly, kill, slay, murder." The text really defines its own meaning by placing "perish" as the opposite of "life." Life, everlasting or eternal, is promised only to the pure. Our Father intends to have a clean universe, and has commissioned the Son to do the work for him. This he will do, throwing light into every dark corner, washing, scouring, and polishing every vessel that can be made available for the Master's use, hanging every one in its proper place, sweeping out and "utterly destroying" the rubbish, but evidently saving and blessing with life everlasting by far the greater portion of mankind, so that the saved will be the rule, and the lost the exception--else would Satan triumph over God, which is impossible.
W. I. MANN.
RUN TO DEATH. I was lately passing along the streets of a large city, when my attention was attracted to a fine large engraving hanging in one of the shop windows. (It was in Fleet street, London.) It represented a scene in one of the ancient Isthmian games. Two persons nearly divested of apparel, with distended muscles, occupied the course, stretching every nerve, while around, evidently excited with deep interest, was the "great crowd of witnesses."
They were well along in the course, but the attention of the one somewhat in advance of the other is diverted for a moment by a flower or some shining object that has been thrown into the arena by some one of the many witnesses, by which they are "compassed about."
An effort is made to grasp it; evidently the prize for which they are running is lost by this one, and no trace of sympathy is noticeable on the countenances of the spectators, but great rejoicing is apparent among the multitude, at the persistency with which the victor has reached the goal: Ignoring everything else, keeping the prize only in view he finally won it. I thought, that is a true picture of the Christian race which Paul has so faithfully and vividly painted in words, and which we see acted upon the stage of life. But how appropriately and timely the emphasizing of the thought just now. How faithfully that little shining object, whatever it may be, represents the besetments in the path of the one who is running for the prize of our high calling.
How insignificant compared with the prize and the honor at the end of the course. But unless watchful we shall hesitate; one moment may cost all, and may make delay sufficient to reach the Judge's stand too late.
What's that in your path? A little worldly praise? Disdain to notice it, it is of no value whatever; you are worse off with it than without it. At another point do you see an avenue to wealth? Never mind; it would not be abiding if you had it. Press on.
Again; do you begin to think of some of the "weights" of value (?) left behind, fearing you will never see them again? Don't think of them, only to hope you will never be encumbered with them more. Do you say or think: "I fear this race will be the ruination of all my worldly prospects?" Of course it will so far as having any pleasure in them is concerned.
You will be a very foolish man to divide your energies now, or thoughts either. Press on.
But do you say: "Why there's my reputation right there in the dust." Poor fellow! how sorry I am you noticed it; but it's only the reputation you once had. Don't you know that none of those who are noted racers on this course have any reputation? The greatest racer who ever stepped on it "made himself of no reputation."
But do you say: "This awful run will be the death of me? Yes; of course it will; but you are a poor culprit under sentence of death anyway, and if you undertake to save your life you will lose it, but run yourself to death and you'll have a life that is life everlasting, and more--immortal. Don't be foolish now. Press on.
"A heavenly race demands thy zeal
And an immortal crown."
J. C. SUNDERLIN.
THE CHURCH WALKING WITH THE WORLD. The Church and the World walked far apart
On the changing shores of time,
The World was singing a giddy song,
And the Church a hymn sublime.
"Come, give me your hand," said the merry World,
"And walk with me this way";
But the good Church hid her snowy hands
And solemnly answered "Nay,
I will not give you my hand at all,
And I will not walk with you;
Your way is the way that leads to death;
Your words are all untrue."
"Nay, walk with me but a little space,"
Said the World, with a kindly air;
"The road I walk is a pleasant road,
And the sun shines always there;
Your path is thorny and rough and rude,
But mine is broad and plain;
My way is paved with flowers and dews,
And yours with tears and pain;
The sky to me is always blue,
No want, no toil I know;
The sky above you is always dark,
Your lot is a lot of woe;
There's room enough for you and me
To travel side by side."
Half shyly the Church approached the World
And gave him her hand of snow;
And the old World grasped it and walked along,
Saying in accents low,
"Your dress is too simple to please my taste;
I will give you pearls to wear,
Rich velvets and silks for your graceful form,
And diamonds to deck your hair."
The Church looked down at her plain white robes,
And then at the dazzling World,
And blushed as she saw his handsome lip
With a smile contemptuous curled.
"I will change my dress for a costlier one,"
Said the Church, with a smile of grace;
Then her pure, white garments drifted away,
And the World gave, in their place,
Beautiful satins and shining silks,
Roses and gems and costly pearls;
While over her forehead her bright hair fell
Crisped in a thousand curls.
"Your house is too plain," said the proud old World,
"I'll build you one like mine;
Carpets of Brussels and curtains of lace,
And furniture ever so fine."
So he built her a costly and beautiful house;
Most splendid it was to behold;
Her sons and her beautiful daughters dwelt there.
Gleaming in purple and gold;
Rich fairs and shows in the halls were held,
And the World and his children were there.
Laughter and music and feasts were heard
In the place that was meant for prayer.
There were cushioned pews for the rich and the gay,
To sit in their pomp and pride;
But the poor, who were clad in shabby array,
Sat meekly down outside.
"You give too much to the poor," said the World,
"Far more than you ought to do;
If they are in need of shelter and food,
Why need it trouble you?
Go take your money and buy rich robes,
Buy horses and carriages fine,
Buy pearls and jewels and dainty food;
Buy the rarest and costliest wines;
My children they dote on all these things,
And if you their love would win,
You must do as they do, and walk in the ways
That they are walking in."
[R407 : page 5]
Then the Church held fast the strings of her purse,
And modestly lowered her head,
And simpered, "Without doubt you are right, sir;
Henceforth I will do as you've said."
So the poor were turned from her door in scorn,
And she heard not the orphan's cry;
But she drew her beautiful robes aside,
As the widows went weeping by.
Then the sons of the World and sons of the Church
Walked closely hand and heart,
And only the Master, who knoweth all,
Could tell the two apart.
Then the Church sat down at her ease and said
"I am rich and my goods increase;
I have need of nothing, or aught to do,
But to laugh, and dance, and feast."
The sly World heard, and he laughed in his sleeve,
And mocking said, aside--
"The Church is fallen, the beautiful Church,
And her shame is her boast and her pride."
The angel drew near to the mercy-seat,
And whispered in sighs her name,
Then the loud anthems of rapture were hushed,
And heads were covered with shame.
And a voice was heard at last by the Church
From Him who sat on the Throne,
"I know thy works, and how thou hast said,
'I am rich;' and hast not known
That thou art naked, poor and blind,
And wretched before My face;
Therefore I from My presence, cast thee out.
And blot thy name from its place."--SELECTED.
THE EKKLESIA. This is a Greek word which is translated church. It signifies a company, assembly or body of people bound or compacted together.
To-day there are many organizations claiming to be the church, and having various bonds of union; but we wish to know, upon the authority of God's Word, what ekklesia, body, or church, Jesus established, and what are its bonds of union; secondly, we wish to show that every Christian should belong to that church; thirdly, the injurious effects of joining the wrong ekklesia or church; and fourthly, having joined the right church, what are the results of losing our membership.
First then, the church which Jesus began to gather during his ministry, and which was recognized by the Father at Pentecost after their ransom price was paid, was the little company of disciples who had consecrated earthly time, talents and life a sacrifice to God. They were organized and bound together as members of one society, and as such had laws and government, and consequently a head or recognized ruling authority. The bonds were bonds of love and common interest. Since all were enlisted under the captaincy of Jesus, the hopes and fears, joys and sorrows, and aims of one were those of the other; and thus they had a far more perfect union of heart than could possibly be had from a union on the basis of any man-made creed. Thus their organization was of the Spirit; their law for the government of each was love, and all as a whole were put under obedience to the "law of the Spirit" as it was expressed in the life, actions, and words of their Lord. Their government was the will of him who said, "If ye love me keep my commandments."
Thus we see the early church organized, governed, and in perfect unity and harmony under the rulership or headship of Jesus. Contrast this church organization with what now affects to be a continuance of the same--viz.: the various denominational organizations, each of which binds its members to a mental union on the basis of some creed or dogma of its own (many of them anything but love-ly) and each having its own laws.
These laws emanate from their heads, or rulers and law-givers; so it is clearly seen that these present day churches, have and recognize as heads, or directing, ruling powers over them, the ancient founders of their various creeds, each contradicting the other, while their clergy, in conferences, councils, synods and presbyteries, variously interpret and enforce the "traditions of the elders" which "make void the Word of God." These take the place of the true head of the church--Jesus--and the true teacher and guide into all truth, the Holy Spirit. Hear the Prophet Isaiah express it. (chap. 9:15.) "The ancient and honorable, he is the head, and the prophet that teacheth lies, he is the tail." And the whole nominal system is described in the Revelation as "Babylon"--confusion--Papal mother and Protestant daughters.
Will they own this to be so? No, for the lukewarm nominal church of today believes herself to be rich and increased with goods, having need of nothing; not knowing that she is wretched and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. (Rev. 3:17.)
"These are hard sayings, who can receive them?" But these are not our sayings: it is the warning voice of the "sure word of prophecy...whereunto ye do well that ye take heed." And it is a loving voice for again our Lord declares: "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten."
There are two senses in which the true church of Christ may be considered: All who like the early church were fully consecrated to the doing of our Father's will, amenable only to Christ's will and government, recognizing and obeying none other --these saints, from the beginning of the Gospel Age down to its close, when all of this class are sealed, constitute the "CHURCH OF THE FIRST BORN," whose names are written in Heaven. These are all one in aim, hope and suffering, and in due time will be joint-heirs with Jesus Christ to the great inheritance--heirs of the kingdom which God hath promised for them that love him.
The other sense in which this same class is recognized, is by counting a part for the whole; thus all the living of this class may be spoken of as the church; or, again, any part of this class of living followers who may meet together may properly be called the church; for, by the word of Jesus we know that wherever two or three are assembled he will be among them, consequently that would be a church meeting--an assembly of the "church of the First Born." The general assembly will be, when all the church are made like, and glorified with, their head--Jesus.
Such, then, is our definition of the church of Christ; it is perfectly illustrated by Paul (Rom. 12:4,5) when he compares the church to a human body. In this figure Jesus represents the head, and all who are his constitute the body, over and through which the head rules. Jesus has been and always will be the head over his church as a whole; he is likewise the head and ruler of the entire living church, and in every assembly where two or three meet in his name he is the head, ruler, and teacher.
If it be asked, in what sense does he teach? we answer, by exercising the qualities of the head, or teacher; by using one or more of those present as His mouthpiece in unfolding truth, strengthening faith, encouraging hope, inspiring zeal, etc., just as the head of your body can call upon one member to minister to another. But here a word of caution: If one becomes as useful an instrument as a right hand, he should take care that he aspire not to become the head. Be not puffed up; pride will paralyze and render useless. "Be not ye called Rabbi (master, teacher) for one is your master (head) even Christ, and all ye are brethren." And let not the least member despise his office, "for if all were one member, where were the body?" "Nay, those members of the body which seem to be more feeble are necessary"-- "God hath set the members every one of them, in the body as it hath pleased him."
How simple, beautiful, and effectual is God's plan of organization!
This brings us to our second proposition, viz.: that all Christians should be joined to this organization. In the light of what has just been said as to the class constituting the church which Jesus organized, it is evident that if you have given up all your will, talent, time, etc., you are recognized by Jesus as a follower, and member of the ekklesia, or body of which he is the head, whose names are written in heaven. Thus we join Jesus' church and have our names recorded as members by consecration. But says one: Must I not join some organization on earth, assent to some creed, and have my name written on earth? No; remember that Jesus is your pattern and teacher, and neither in his words nor acts will you find any authority for binding yourselves with creeds and traditions of the elders, which all tend to make the word of God of none effect, and bring you under a bondage which will hinder your growth in grace and knowledge, and against which Paul warned you, saying, "Stand fast, therefore, in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Gal. 5:1.)
But say some: If it is not proper to unite with any of the present nominal churches, would it not be well to form a visible organization of our own? Yes, this is what we have--an organization modeled after that of the early church. We think we have come back to primitive simplicity. The Lord Jesus alone is our head or lawgiver; the Holy Spirit is our interpreter and guide into truth; our names are all written in heaven; we are bound together by love and common interest.
Do you inquire--how shall we know one another? We reply, how could we help knowing one another when the Spirit of our Master is made manifest in word and act, and manner and look? Yes, the living faith, the unfeigned love, the long-suffering meekness, the childlike simplicity coupled with the constancy and zeal of maturity, make manifest the sons of God, and we need no earthly record, for the names of all such are written in the Lamb's book of life.
Do the sick need visiting or assistance? --these stand ready with consecrated time. Does the Lord's work require money?-- these stand ready with consecrated means. Does his work bring upon them the reproach of the world, and of a degenerate nominal church--these have also sacrificed reputation--all--all to God.
But again, do you inquire how shall we deal with one who walks disorderly in our midst; if we have no organization such as we see about us, how can we free ourselves from such, as the Lord requires us to do? We answer: Do just as Jesus and Paul directed.
Now, as in the early church, there are various degrees of advancement among the individual members, and Paul says (1 Thes. 5:14,) some are feeble-minded, comfort them; some are weak, support them; but while you should be patient toward all, warn the disorderly (those who are drifting away from the true spirit of Christ). Don't mistake the disorderly for the weak, and comfort them; nor for the feebleminded, and support them, but patiently, lovingly, warn the disorderly. Whom does he call disorderly? Doubtless there are many ways of walking disorderly, but in 2 Thes. 3:11, he speaks of some who work not at all, but are busy-bodies, and says they should do as he did--work that they be not chargeable to any; and if any will not work, neither should he eat. Thus he said he did, that he might be an example to others. He warns us also against immoral and unjust persons and those who wrest (twist) the Scriptures and thus turn the truth of God into a lie. Then again, vs. 14: After you have warned such a one, if he "obey not...note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. "Yet, count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother."
Again Jesus gives explicit directions where there is a matter of offence between two brethren, Matt. 18:15,17: "If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother; but if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: (the company of brethren who assemble together), but if he neglects to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican." If, under the organization of our Head, we heed his commands, which we will do if we love him, how few will be the misunderstandings and difficulties among the brethren.
This organization has its evangelists, pastors and teachers appointed and directed by the Lord. They need no laying on of hands by the so-called Apostolic succession; for the "Spirit of the Lord hath anointed" all the members of the body "to preach," etc. (Isa. 61:1), and it is the duty of every member of the body to exercise his office for the edification of the other members. How complete is the organization of the church of Christ with its heaven-written, love-bound and Spirit-ruled membership, and how sad the error of mistaking the nominal for the real church!
The importance of our fourth proposition need not be urged. It would indeed, be a dreadful calamity to lose our membership in the true church or body of Christ. And no member is out of this danger except when keeping a vigilant watch over the old nature, counted dead, lest it come to life again, and assert itself in the form of pride, selfishness, envy, evil-speaking--or what not? But if filled with love (the love that prompts to sacrifice) and clothed with humility, and under cover of the redeeming blood, we are safe in the church (body), having the assurance that it is our "Father's good pleasure to give us the kingdom."
Yes, the kingdom is the glorious destiny of the true church--the "little flock"-- now treading the pathway of humiliation and drinking the bitter cup of death. The glory that shall be revealed in us, doth not yet appear except to the eye of faith, but the temptations and trials are very apparent on every hand. "Let us, therefore, fear lest a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it." (Heb. 4:1.)
Thus Paul warned others and thus he feared, lest (even after) having preached to others, he himself should be a castaway. (1 Cor. 9:27.) We may have our names cast out as evil by those of the nominal church, and yet "rejoice and be exceeding glad because our names are written in heaven." They may frown upon you and despitefully use you and say all manner of evil against you falsely, or they may seek to win you back by flattery, saying they cannot afford to lose your influence--you could do so much good by remaining among them. Oh, how necessary in this "evil day" is the faith--
"That bears unmoved the world's dread frown,
Nor heeds its flattering smile;
That seas of trouble cannot drown,
Nor Satan's arts beguile."
Dearly beloved, let us again repeat the warning: "Stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, and be not again entangled with the yoke of bondage" --not even in the slightest degree.
THE DAY OF JUDGMENT.
"God hath appointed a day in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained"--"Jesus Christ the righteous." "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son." (Acts 17:31. John 5:22.)The word judgment sometimes signifies merely the execution of a verdict, or decision reached, but it means in a fuller sense the process of trial, including also the decision or result of trial. The human race represented in its head, Adam, once stood on trial before God. It failed to prove itself worthy of life, and in Adam all were condemned, the penalty or verdict being death.--"Dying thou shalt die." (Gen. 2:17 --margin.)
Seemingly, Jehovah had forever sealed the final doom of his creatures, the trial being ended and they all condemned to death. But not so; he had thus condemned all through one representative (Adam), that he might have mercy upon all through another representative--Christ Jesus (Rom. 5:19).
In due time Jesus was placed on trial as a second representative man. He was in all points tempted (tried) like as we are, yet without sin (Heb. 4:15). In his trial Jesus was a victor; he was thus proved [R408 : page 6] worthy of life according to his Father's law. Then by giving himself (his humanity) a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:6), he purchased all of the fallen race from, or out of death. The object of the ransom was not to justify sin, nor to bring back the sinner to continue a life of sin, but to afford each an individual trial for life in hope that all, having had a taste of the bitterness of sin, might return to harmony and communion with God through Jesus, and live. It is for this reason that the world is to be judged again. They were tried and condemned once already through Adam, as we have shown, and a second chance for life comes to all the race through Christ Jesus--an individual chance.
The second judgment or trial of the race, unlike the first, will be an individual trial, when every man who dies shall die for his own sin and not for Adam's (Jer. 31:29,30). This individual trial will be under the most favorable circumstances, and will decide their final everlasting destiny. But before they can have such a trial, they must first be redeemed from the consequences of the first trial.
It should be remembered that the church selected from the world during this Gospel age is not reckoned as a part of the World. Jesus said, "They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world." (John 17:16.) This Gospel age, has not been the World's day of trial or judgment, but the church's only. Only a small part of mankind have yet been blessed with knowledge sufficient for a full, fair trial as individuals. But we thank God that he has "appointed a day (period) in the which he will judge the World in righteousness"--fully and fairly, as our text affirms.
Our hearts rejoice with gratitude and praise as we realize the blessings to come to all mankind, when the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the whole earth, for all must have full knowledge in order to a full and righteous trial. God could have had the World's trial-day begin where ours did, (the church's) at Pentecost, but it pleased him to permit six days of evil (six thousand years) to pass, and then to bring in a seventh day of rest from the dominion of evil (the millennium, or seventh thousand years), in which the World should have a more favorable individual trial under the reign of Jesus. All who will, may then have back all that was lost through Adam's sin--human perfection [R409 : page 6] of life and happiness.
As heretofore shown, the trial of the church, now in progress, is not a trial of men to see whether they are worthy of human life and perfection eternally, but it is a trial of new creatures. Certain ones, justified from sin by faith in Christ, have presented themselves as human sacrifices to death--the death of all human aims and hopes and being. Their trial is to see whether they will fulfill this their covenant. If they do it, they will be doing with their humanity what Jesus did with his, and such shall share with Jesus, their Lord, the glory and honor of the divine nature.
The trial of the World when Satan and evil are bound (Rev. 20:2) will be less severe and the prize for which they will be running (a right to existence as perfected human, or earthly beings) will be less glorious than that for which we run. Theirs will be a gloriously satisfying portion, however, since the natural man cannot receive the things of the spirit, for they are spiritually discerned. What a loving and wise provision! All will be perfectly satisfied-- they on the earthly plane, we on the heavenly.
When the World is on trial (during the millennial age), not only Jesus will be their Judge, but his Bride--the overcomers now being selected, then made one with him, will sit with him in the throne and judge the world, as we read: "Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world?" (1 Cor. 6:2.)
THE DAY OF THE LORD.
"The great day of His wrath is come, who shall be able to stand?" Rev. 6:17. "The day of the Lord" is a scriptural name for a period of time, during which the Gospel and Millennial ages lap; the one ending, the other commencing. Concerning it we read--"Shall not the Day of the Lord be darkness and not light, even very dark, and no brightness in it?" (Amos 5:20.) "Ho (improperly translated woe; see Young's translation) you that desire the Day of the Lord: The Day of the Lord is darkness and not light." (vs. 18.)
It is "The great day of His wrath." This dark day is at once the closing scene of the night of weeping, and the dawn of the morning of joy. We desire your attention not merely to the Scripture evidence that there will be such a day, or time, but especially to the events that will transpire during that day, and their chronological order.
This time of trouble comes first upon the nominal church. We read, "The harvest is the end of the world" (age). It includes the sifting of the true wheat from among the tares in the nominal church, and the burning of the tares. This work has been rapidly progressing in our midst during the past seven years. The sickle of truth has been gathering and separating from the world, the truly consecrated children of God who faithfully follow the leading of truth, and such shall be accounted worthy to escape the tribulation coming (Luke 21:36), while lukewarm and merely nominal Christians shall share it with the world.
This separation of truth from error, and of truth-seekers from time honored systems of error, brought about by the unfolding of truth now due to the household of faith, causes great trouble and final overthrow to those systems. The light reveals and condemns the darkness, and the real "children of light" rejoice in it, while those not in the light "weep and lament," as foretold in Rev. 18. The tottering and overthrow of the nominal church is the beginning of the trouble on the world, since the interests of the church and world are so closely linked. The Church, both Papal and Protestant has exerted a mighty influence upon the masses of the people, and has greatly aided governments in controlling them. Therefore the great, the mighty, and the rich, will weep and lament her fall.
The trouble of the nations during "the Day of the Lord," is a natural consequence of the transfer of authority and rulership from the Devil, who is the prince of this world--age (John 14:30), to "Him whose right it is"--Christ--who, in the beginning of the Millennial Age, "takes to himself His great power and reigns;"--"And the nations were angry and thy wrath is come," read along connectedly. Rev. 11:17.