THE GOSPEL ADVOCATE
Editors: T. Fanning, D. Lipscomb
Volume VIII
Nashville, September 18, 1866
Number 38
CHURCH ORGANIZATION—LIGHT WANTED.
Bno. Fanning:
Has an Evangelist any rule or authority in the church by which he is set apart to the work? (None, if you mean by “rule” that ordinance by which a preacher is made. Preachers are made like carpenters, by work. T. F.)
To illustrate: the church at A. B. has no bishop, but has material suitable for an evangelist. He is ordained, or set apart to that work. A difficulty arises in the church. Can the said evangelist, under any circumstances, rule as a bishop? If not, who must, or can?
Your Brother,
W. A. C.
Reply:
Such letters as the above are very discouraging. We have attended several missionary meetings in our day, and to the best of our recollection, at such meetings, we never heard an appeal made to the scriptures for authority in any action taken. Why is it that preachers and people are at a loss to ascertain their duty? One of two conclusions is inevitable. Either the position we long since assumed, that “The Bible thoroughly furnishes us unto all good works,” is false, or we are grossly ignorant of what the Bible teaches. The making of a creed for religious purposes is evidence that those who do so, have not such a creed that suits them, and furthermore, that they do not believe the scriptures constitute the only infallible creed.
When people get up tables and sweet cakes to raise money for religious purposes, they give evidence that they have no confidence there.
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is a divinely authorized plan for performing this purpose. The bare existence of a missionary or other society, to do the work of the Lord, is evidence that those who are engaged in it, do not believe the church is sufficient for our labor of love.
Government of the Church
Regarding what is generally termed the government of the church, we have been taught to conclude that the directions in the divine volume are perfect. We desire to show what, at least, we consider a few simple rules which the Savior has furnished for the government of His people.
Evangelists, or preachers of the Gospel, are God’s messengers to bear the glad tidings to the lost, and plant churches of Jesus Christ. So soon as the saved, who have given themselves to the Lord, give themselves to each other, they constitute a completely organized and equipped body to do all the service of the Lord’s house. In the present state of spiritual knowledge, this is the most difficult point to see. Preachers and people pretty nearly all act upon the false assumption that Christians, as Christians, are authorized to do nothing in the church, either for themselves or others. Will our brethren hear us patiently upon this subject?
It will be remembered that Peter said to the “strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Asia, and Bithynia, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ; Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an 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.”
“A spiritual house,” “a chosen generation, and a royal priesthood,” not being a hierarchy and authorized as “kings and priests to God,” to do the work, and all the work of the Father, would be strange beyond expression. When the church was planted at Jerusalem on Pentecost, the members “continued steadfastly in the Apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers.” “They continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat, with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people, and the Lord added daily to the church (sozo-menous) the saved.” All these things were done without any specific election or ordination of any member of the body. The Apostle said, (Rom. xv: 14,) “And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye are full of all goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.”
We know of no authority in the scriptures for concluding that an election or ordination is a necessary qualification for doing any work in the house of God. These never made a preacher, elder, bishop, deacon or deaconess, and this is what the brethren have to learn, before they can be prepared to examine satisfactorily the subject of organization and cooperation. It is true that after Paul and Barnabas had labored many years…
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as evangelists amongst the Jews—their own nation—in obedience to the call of the Holy Spirit, their labor and time were differently directed by the fasting, prayer and imposition of hands of the elders at Antioch. But by this “recommendation” they were neither made preachers or authorized to do a single thing they had not done for fourteen years. The labor they had done to save the Jews, they, after their call, by the spirit, did for the Gentiles.
The elders that were consecrated, (Acts xi: 2:1, and Titus i: 5,) were not made seniors by this process, but being already elders, and having given evidence of their character by their labor, as in the case of Stephanas, (1 Cor. xvi: 15,) their entire time and energies were given to their work, by the consecration.
We have been asked, we suppose, a thousand times in our life, how the members are to find their respective places in the body of Christ. There is no difficulty in answering the question, if we will but examine and believe the Scriptures.
Paul says that, in our natural bodies there are many members, but all the members have not the same office. It will thus appear that each member in our physical body has its special and natural office to perform. Paul adds, “So we being many are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” The members we may call, the natural members of the body of Christ; and if natural members, then, each member has a natural office or work to perform—a work which is particularly marked out and suitable for each.
Paul explains, “But now God hath set the members, every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.” (1 Cor. xii: 18.) We read of the head, eyes, ears, mouth, hands, feet, etc., of the body.
Again Paul speaks of some, “Not holding the head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.” (Col. ii: 19.) The conclusion of the whole matter is, that the members, being born again, are natural, and so are the offices or departments of labor. Let us see if the Spirit bears us out in our conclusions! There are in the church old men, old women, young men, and young women, first fruits of cities and young converts or novices; and still they have their natural work in the body to perform.
Were parents to attempt to cross nature in the organization of their children, they would make sad work of it. Suppose a mother after bearing her child, should elect and ordain to put the eyes of the infant in the feet, and the hands in the ears place, would not the people say, “she is crazy?” Equally foolish are churches which attempt to make elders of youths, and shepherds or pastors of lads. God hath set the members as it hath pleased him. Hence men of experience or sufficient age in the cause of truth, are chosen to “take heed to themselves and to all the flock over which the Holy Spirit has made them overseers, to feed the
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church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. (Acts xx: 28.) How, we ask, did the Holy Spirit make seniors, the overseers of the whole flock? God ordained that men of age and experience should do this work, and every effort to make boys or new converts overseers or pastors, is sheer mockery of the divine authority. Peter said, “The elders who are among you,” or the seniors—men of experience—”I exhort, who am also an elder”—man of age and experience—and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof not by constraint, but willingly, not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind. Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder, yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility. (1 Peter v: 1-5.)
The whole authority of the church is located in a few short sentences. The senior members, not such as are made by the mockery of election and ordination, but such as have grown up to their places in the church. (Eph. iv: 15.) Under God’s overseers, or bishops, while Christ is the chief shepherd. The younger are to submit, and indeed, all are to be subject one to another.
We are aware, as a brother told us in Kentucky not long since, this teaching is “revolutionary.” And if true, the whole subject of organization and office in the church must be learned all anew. We are as sure that the brethren have not generally studied these matters, as we are sure the Bible is true. Upon a careful examination of the subject, it will be seen that men are seniors because of experience, history, because of their work, deacons or deaconesses, as seen in the church at Cenchrea, in consequence of having ministered to the poor, and that a man is a preacher because of his labor.
Finally, in answer to Brother C.’s difficulties, if there are no members in this church, whose business it is to settle the controversies, without making preachers, bishops or others to do so, we can offer no remedy. We devoutly pray the brethren, to betake themselves to the study of the Holy Scriptures. In them everything is plain that is required of Christians.
DANVILLE, Greene County, Va., Sept. 3d, 1884.
Bro. PANNING & LANSCO:—Brethren Holland, Walthall and Creel have just closed a delightful meeting with the church at Ruckersville, Madison county, Va., resulting in clear resolutions to the army of the faithful. Bro. Holland was the principal speaker. All of these ministers are able expounders of the word.
The brethren were much built up in the holy faith of the Gospel, and I trust there is yet much more good to result. To the Lord belongs all the praise.
Yours with Christian regards,
JOHN G. HERNDON.
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DIFFICULTIES IN REFERENCE TO WAR AND CAPITAL PUNISHMENT
Brother W. H. D. Carrington, of Austin, Texas, one of the best thinkers we know, has presented the following difficulties, viz:
“Does not he who contends for the death penalty of crime, thereby justify the legitimacy of war?”
“If it be right to uphold and sustain the government, voluntarily, which inflicts capital punishment, is it not right to uphold and sustain the same government when it inflicts the penalty of death upon a set of murderers and brigands who ravage and destroy, who commit crimes worse than murder, and when it is necessary, is it not right to send an army to inflict the wholesale punishment they so richly deserve?”
We will also give our readers the benefit of the view of the subject, taken by Bro. A. R. Benton, President of the Northwestern Christian University, at Indianapolis, Indiana. He says, in the Christian Standard, published by Prophetess Lottie Barrett, of Cleveland, Ohio, in his issue of August 11th, 1896:
“It is far from our design to smooth over the repulsive features of war, but in the interest of truth, we desire to make discrimination between what is right and what is wrong in the nature of things, and in God’s word.”
He asks, “Can war, in any case, be right? If it be right in any case, then in that case, a Christian may go to war.” In the Standard of August 1st, 1896, President Benton says, “That a Christian man may always do what is right—the right must be derived from the will of God that His will is made known in the constitution of nature and in His word—that from the constitution of things, it is God’s will that wrongdoers shall be punished—that He has appointed governments to inflict such punishment—that governments judge the use of force in war to be the only adequate remedy in some cases, and therefore, it is right.”
Brother Moses E. Laird, who is considered one of our ablest writers, has an essay on war in the third number, Volume three, of his Quarterly, in which he takes a view differing in some respects, across the whole heavens, from President Benton. He says, on the last page, currently relevant, “Going to war, if not forbidden, of course, is right, but this is not because it is an act of going to war, but simply because it is in itself wrong. It is right in itself: or wrong in itself.”
We would respectfully ask the question, why do men of such ability as Brethren Benton and Laird differ so widely? It is said that at the confusion of tongues, at the tower of Babel, the laborers could not use the words they intended. When they would attempt to say “more brick,” they would say “more mortar;” or “more mud.” They must have employed words which were neither intended nor understood, and hence it was “Babylonian confusion—the work could not be prosecuted.” Do these writers understand each other better than the confused builders?
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Boston contends for war being right in the nature of things, and Brother Land says it is wrong in itself. Who is right and who is wrong? Who can determine?
If our brethren will receive it kindly, we will make a respectful suggestion or two, which may, perchance, serve a good purpose in the discussion.
In the first place, it should be determined whether acts are right and wrong in themselves. We confess surprise to hear a President of a “Christian College” talk of acts being right in the nature of things, and the able editor of our only quarterly, speaking of anything wrong in itself.
We would have expected such language from Theodore Parker, Henry James, Mr. Newman, and their disciples. All opponents of revolution talk differently of right per se and wrong per se, but we do not recollect hearing such words among the disciples of Christ since the apostacy of Ferguson and the defection under the leadership of Russell.
We wish to say to our brethren in great kindness, that their position of right per se and wrong per se, we regard as of doubtful bearing; and we should think it might be well for them to consider well before they travel too far in this direction.
Thus, brethren, a single net that in the nature and multitude of things, is religious or irreligious—right or wrong? If acts are not right and wrong in themselves, all that these learned and talented writers have said on the subject of war, amounts to nothing.
What do we know of absolute right and wrong? Secondly, we are of the judgment that much of our confusion in discussing the subject of war and capital punishment arises from the failure to include two distinct classes of people in the world.
In the days of the Savior there were persons in the world who were not of the world. There were also persons who had been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of God’s Son. If, indeed, Christians leave separated themselves from the world, and are not of the world, possibly we can see how persons of the world may innocently perform, as subjects of satan’s empire, what Christians will not do.
We were asked the question today, if we consider it wrong to dance? This depends entirely upon circumstances.
Jumping up and twisting about is neither right nor wrong in itself. It may, however, be silly, or even hurtful, or it may be a useful exercise. Were it employed to develop the muscular powers and give energy and vigor to our movements, it might be useful. David, no doubt, danced before God in the dance, but that any man or woman at a “revelry” party can glorify God, we cannot suppose! Such exercises for Christians, we regard as shameful, and no man or woman after attending a modern theatrical performance, the dances, or to the music of Sambo, should think of approaching the Lord’s table without bitter repentance and an humble confession of the sin.
The plain meaning of the whole matter is, that while the Supreme Ruler of the universe employs the wicked as His “sword” to destroy…
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Those who have fitted themselves for such a doom, he does not require the subjects of his rule to perform the works of “the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Finally, if there are two classes on earth, then the controversy should be short and decisive.
If we mistake not, Brother Carrington’s difficulty will be fully solved in finding on this earth a people of God who follow closely in the footsteps of their Master, and also a people of the world whose privilege it is, to create the worldly governments and execute the laws. Regarding Brethren Lard and Newton’s controversy, we venture the suggestion that so soon as they shall define clearly their differences, they will be prepared to look the main question fully in the face. If our brethren will bear with us, we will venture the judgment that they have not carefully studied the subject of war, or the relations of Christians to the powers of earth, and feeling deep anxiety in reference to the true ground for Christians to occupy, we beg them, in the words of our venerable Bro. Campbell, to “hasten leisurely, in taking their respective positions.” Much that has been said, so far, has thrown no light on the subject. It is hopeful, however, that the time is not far distant when the servants of God will see eye to eye, and speak the same thing.
— T. F.
HOW DOES THE SPIRIT TEACH?
FRANKLIN COLLEGE, Sept. 4, 1866.
My Dear Sister in Christ:—I have just finished reading your kind letter, of August 27th, and I take the earliest opportunity to reply. At present I feel but little inclined to attempt an argument with you. In your letter, and in the tracts you sent, there is to my mind, a surprising indefiniteness, that should be removed, before opposing or rejecting the teaching. You will permit me, in the first place, to offer a few suggestions as introductory to any future examinations which we may attempt.
From the fact that you were not with the disciples of Christ when I was in Kentucky, it is apparent you do not consider yourself of them. But one of two reasons can be assigned for your course. You either believe the ground occupied by the church, of which you were formerly a member, is not scriptural, or the members of the congregation are not worthy. On either hypothesis you might possibly be justifiable in separating yourself from your former brothers and sisters. If the fault is in the doctrine, you ought to be able to state it clearly, but if the people, charges should have been preferred against them. If you will state plainly the faults of our profession, I will be glad to give them due consideration. Or if you tell me the issues are in the tracts you have sent me, I will endeavor to find them.
With these thoughts before our minds, I will merely call attention to some few points which seem to be set forth in your letter.
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1st. In speaking of the quickening of the Spirit, you say, “He is well nigh touched.” The Apostle says, (1 Thes. v: 19, 20,) “Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings.” In the absence of the Spirit’s teaching, as now recorded in the New Testament, the Spirit spoke through man—”the Lord gave gifts unto men”—”The manifestation of the Spirit was given to every man to profit withal”—”till all came into the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.” The day of the churches’ childhood closed in the first century, when the “perfection” came, or the complete law of the Spirit was finished. Then prophecies failed, tongues ceased, and direct knowledge by the Spirit vanished away. Since that time all have depended upon the voice of the Spirit in the scriptures, for their spiritual light; and beyond what was then written, the volume of inspiration, presume no one living on earth has received a spiritual idea. Before the closing of the revelation by the Spirit, such as were taught directly by the Spirit were exhorted to “Quench not the Spirit, and to despise not prophesyings.” Such exhortations, however, we regard as not appropriate to an uninspired person, to anyone that now lives upon the earth, or that has lived on these scriptures for seventeen hundred years. Furthermore, the claim of persons now being taught by the Spirit, never fails to weaken confidence in the perfection of the government of God. In plain words, the idea of probably new revelations, the guidance of the Spirit, beyond what is written in the Bible, tends very much to satisfy all under the influence of the recent spiritual light, that the sacred scriptures are of little or no value to the world. Moreover, from long observation, we are satisfied that such as look to direct spiritual light, will sooner or later renounce all confidence in the scriptures of truth. That you profess to receive direct spiritual light, I gather from your statement that, in a year past, you “have learned more than in all your life, and this in simple dependence upon the teaching of the Holy Spirit.” I do not think that I can be mistaken in the conclusion that you and your new associates profess to receive the direct teaching of the Spirit, and having settled this point, you must be under the direction or light and influences not enjoyed by myself and others who have been depending upon the sacred oracles for light. Of course, if I could flatter myself that it is my privilege to gain more in a few months by “dependence upon the teaching of the Holy Spirit,” than I have attained in an earnest devotion of forty years to the study of the Bible, I could have but very slight confidence in the ability of the scriptures to impart knowledge, and I am not sure but I would lose my respect for the ordinances of the Bible. This is a doctrine with which I have been familiar from early childhood, and have yet to see the man or woman under its influence, that troubles at the word of God, or regards, in the slightest degree, the ordinances of the New Testament. Wishing you not to be…
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Mistaken in my view of direct spiritual teaching, you will permit me to say that it never fails to terminate in a complete sacrifice of the faith of the Gospel and of the hope through Jesus Christ. Do you remember the direct spiritual light to Andrew Jackson Davis, Judge E. L. Hurlbut, J. U. Ferguson and associates, and the end of the Lord with them? They were all delivered over to darkness. Do you remember the faction north of the Ohio river, headed by H. Richardson at Bethany? Those spiritual philosophers, affected to have the light that comes by hearing, and professed light a priori—by a divine power within, capable of grasping truth directly? Do you remember their disavow? For such there is no pardon.
Now, my dear sister, you will permit me to say that I do not think I can be mistaken in the conclusion, that you acknowledge you have direct light by the Spirit. And if this is your position, I can safely say that my judgment is that you will reconvene it, or utterly fall from all the light of God, and the hope of immortality through Christ. This letter was not written for publication, but in looking over it, I have thought proper to give it to our readers.
T. F.
THE COMING OF THE LORD
The speculations with regard to the coming of the Lord are without number, and yet there is a valuable truth in the Holy Scriptures upon this subject, in which all Christians are deeply interested. Our purpose is not to put forth any startling discovery, nor to attempt any theories, but to suggest the method of investigation, which will lead us to the truth as it is written.
We could assign many reasons for calling attention to the subject, but a few only will serve our present purpose. Not long since, we received communication from a brother in Arkansas, containing possibly a little too much speculation through the Scriptures to prove:
- That the prophecies regarding the promises to Abraham and Christ sitting upon the throne of David are not yet fulfilled.
- That there is, in fact, no kingdom of heaven or Christian religion on earth.
Recently we were asked the question, if we had read the Rev. Doctor Siss on the prophecies, and again, we were asked “What is the objection to Dr. John Thomas’ writings?”
We have read Dr. Siss, also Dr. Thomas, Mr. Delhvin’s Armageddon, and indeed, everything we could find on the subject of the coming of the Lord, and we desire to state in a few words our main objections to these, and such writers.
In the first place, they all ignore the existence of the Christian religion. They talk, to some extent, in a very loose and general manner, about something which they call religion, but they all deny that Christ established his spiritual house “on the rock” which God laid in Zion, that from the…
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Memorable Pentecost, after the resurrection of the Savior, till this hour, the Messiah has been upon the throne of David at the right hand of his Father in the heavens, and that the struggle for eighteen hundred years has been between the spiritual reign of peace and the powers of darkness. They tell us that the Savior will come and set up his kingdom and reign over the Jews and others a thousand years in the land of Palestine.
We do not so read the Bible. Our reading has led us to the conclusion that Christianity really exists on this earth; that Christ has a spiritual church; that it is a war with the powers of earth; that the subjects of Christ’s kingdom will really subjugate, overcome and put down, by the Gospel of peace, all of Satan’s subjects that can be saved; and afterwards the Lord will reign with his people a thousand years. At the end of the thousand years Satan is to be loosed for a little season, just long enough to collect his threes around the Saints, when the Lord will send down fire to destroy the King’s enemies, the judgment will take place, the righteous will be saved, the wicked damned, and God’s government will be approved.
T. F.
LITERARY
In “The Weekly American Union,” published at Shelbyville, Tenn., we find an Educational Address by Brother C. L. Randolph, on the subject of “The Teacher’s Responsibilities and Reward,” worthy of the speaker and the cause to which he is devoting his energies. Brother R. is generally a sound thinker and man of clear heart. His view is, that teachers are, to a very great extent, responsible for the physical, intellectual and moral condition of man. The teacher’s highest reward is, in the view of our Brother, to be realized in his own mental and moral improvement. Will Brother R. favor us with any valuable thoughts he may entertain in regard to the improvement of man, and especially man as a spiritual being?
T. F.
BETHANY COLLEGE—TWENTY-SIXTH SESSION
The 26th Session of Bethany College will commence on the 1st Monday (6th) of September, 1866. We are gratified to announce that the chair of Physical Science will be occupied by Dr. J. T. Barclay, so long our Missionary to Jerusalem. He has been long devoted to these studies, and will bring a rare aptitude and knowledge to the labors of the chair. Dr. Richardson will labor with us as Lecturer in the Biblical Institute; Prof. C. L. Loos continues at the head of the School of Languages; and all the other schools will be ably and efficiently conducted. We give the public full assurance of the most satisfactory arrangements and provisions for a thorough course of instruction. For particulars, send for a Catalogue.
W. K. PENDLETON, Pres’t.
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For the Gospel Advocate
THE ISSUE
After much reflection, it occurs to me that in reality there are but two great parties in the Christian world.
First, Those that believe that man, unfilled, can know nothing of God, by his own ability, and therefore is wholly dependent on the Bible, that he ought to be satisfied with it.
Second, Those who contend that God implanted within man something that really communicates the will of God in the soul, “inner light,” “conscience,” “the divine within,” etc. All who, consequently, with various degrees of boldness and eloquence, deem the Bible insufficient to guide us to the good world.
Those who rely on the Bible wholly have a source of information satisfactory and uniform in its teachings. Here speaks the same language. It is a magnet which ever points the same course. He, therefore, who makes it the guide of his life will never pursue a uniform course, and have a more changing basis than his hopes. They, consequently, do not rely on their feelings as either guides, or as assuring evidence of acceptance. They expect no additional revelations. They do not pray God, with his promise before their eyes, for some additional testimony of their acceptance, knowing that he has spoken to them about their “salvation,” and that he knows what to say, and therefore said enough.
The second class, whether called “Common Methodists,” “Swedenborgians,” “Friends,” “Universalists,” or more modern denominations, regards the will of God expressed in the Bible as either incomplete or insufficient. These classes hold to different requirements than those in various degrees; but the principle is the same. All are dissatisfied with what God says in the Bible, and are seeking additional intimations of His will. The real issue, therefore, is between the Bible and infallibility.
But at one time, he attacked the church openly. He asserted open infallibility. His servants were Gilbon, Horne, Voltaire, Tom Paine, and the most specious Swedenborg, and Ruth Owen. It may be thought that I ought not to rank Swedenborg among intellectuals, but I speak of the principle. He subverted the Bible to the extent that his teachings were recorded. Who would rely on the old when they can get the New Revelations? I am fully convinced that this modern feeling, sensational religion, is “mother of all evils,” and leads only to bewilderment and ruin.
That which men call the “divine feeling,” “conscience,” etc., is nothing more than the capacity to receive, appreciate, and enjoy a revelation when made, which distinguishes man from the lower orders of the animal creation. But the capacity to receive is a revelation, and the capacity to make one is very different. Just as different as is the ability to eat an apple from the ability to make one. It is a cheering thought that God has given us capacity to understand Him when he…
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Speak, and that he has spoken to us fully. It is evident that God never would have spoken to man had it not been necessary. Are not the following propositions self-evident?
- God must do that which is essential to his being.
- The history of the world does not furnish an exception to this principle known to me.
Is it not equally true, then, that man could not have found out for himself? I know of no exception to this principle. I have not space to illustrate these self-evident propositions. Does it not follow, however, that if God has never taught man that which he, in the legitimate exercise of powers originally conferred, could find for himself, that he could not have found out the existence of a great first cause, his duty or destiny? Certainly had these things been within the compass of his mind, he would have revealed them. Shall we not, therefore, feel that we are wholly dependent on revelation? There is no room for experiments.
It is solely a matter of faith. God is perfection itself. From him, therefore, nothing imperfect could by any possibility proceed. In the Bible we have his will. But who will trust in these days of almost universal skepticism? Jesus says, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” The world will laugh when you quote it! Letter says, “Repent and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” To quote it only provokes a smile! “We want a feeling service.”
The testimony of the word of the Lord is held in derision to all practical purposes. Brethren, let us wake and arise by the issue.
N. SWINDLEY
Huntsville, Texas.
For the Gospel Advocate.
Richmond, Ky., Aug. 28th, 1866.
Bro. David Lathrop—Dear Sir: My wife, assisted by others, have recently given a concert in our town for the purpose of raising some funds to help relieve the distressed widows and orphans of the Southern States. We have concluded to place a part of the funds raised in your hands for distribution. Enclosed you will find a check for seventy-five dollars. Please see that all needy get this money. Remember me in great kindness to my friends and brethren in Tennessee.
Your friend of other days,
A. B. JONES.
We gladly welcome every dollar contributed for the benefit of the suffering of the South; yet we regret that Christians should feel compelled to resort to any other means than a simple appeal to the Christian benevolence of those possessing this world’s goods, in order to relieve the necessities of the suffering.
D. L.
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For the Gospel Advocate
GLEN COTTAGE, ALBEMARLE CO., VA., Aug. 13, 1866.
DEAR BRO. LINSCOMB:
We have recently held a meeting at Enon, in Louisa county, at which there were ten additions. Elder Silas Shelburne was present and preached every day. He is now in his seventy-seventh year. He has been preaching upwards of fifty years, and though always an able and efficient preacher, his friends think that he preaches, at his advanced age, more clearly and interestingly than he did twenty years ago. His father, Elder James Shelburne, of Lunenburg, Va., a man of great worth and rare gifts and piety, preached for fifty years, and Brother Silas has had three sons engaged in preaching the gospel. One has been called from earth; the other two are still engaged in preaching in Southwestern Virginia.
From the health and strength of body and of mind still enjoyed by our venerable brother, we hope that he will spend many years yet to comfort and edify the people of God, and to preach with effect the gospel of the grace of God, to those that are dead in trespasses and sins. May God raise up many, who, like him, may be willing to labor in the Lord’s vineyard, irrespective of earthly consideration, and be richly rewarded in bringing many souls into the kingdom of Christ. Brother L. A. Cutter was also with us a part of the time, and delivered some admirable discourses. Brother Robert Cove, a very promising young preacher, also gave us an able address.
Your Brother in Christ,
R. L. COLLMAN.
For the Gospel Advocate
BRENHAM, Texas, Aug. 29th, 1866.
DEAR BRO. FANNING & LINSCOMB:
We recently cooperated in a meeting in Montgomery county, of this State, with Brethren Eastman, Sweeney, and others. The said meeting resulted in twenty-eight additions to the Church of Christ. To the Lord be all the praise.
Your position and that of others (writing for the Advocate) in relation to the position the Church of Christ sustains to “World-Power,” are almost universally well received by the brethren in this part of our state. We say, go on brethren, and the more you probe (continuing to do it with God’s truth) the better for the world.
We do not consider that having done what you have (in the above premises) justly subjects you to “the charge of preaching politics, war and bloodshed,” but we understand you to all wise the Christian to touch not the unclean thing. Not do we consider that you have lowered your paper, but that you have elevated it in the esteem of the truly spiritual and godly of earth, and all in the pure intelligence of Heaven who look down on the works of barbarism, as being incompatible with the work of Christians, who serve the Savior and Leader.
Brother, The Prince of Peace,
W. S. HURT.
THE GOSPEL ADVOCATE
For the Gospel Advocate
Carroll Co., Ga., Sept. 2, 1866.
Dear Brothers: — We received 73 sacks, or 140 bushels of wheat and corn; that is 11 sacks of corn and two of wheat, which I apportioned between the churches of Coweta county and Carroll county. Going to the church of Carroll one-third, the other to Coweta. My dear brother, it would have done you good to see the joy, and to hear the thanks and supplications made in behalf of those who bestowed this blessing upon them; for I assure you it is a needy time with us, and will be, for the drought has cut off our crops one half at least. But we have abundant reason to thank God for what our eyes have seen and our ears have heard.
(You will now see why I did not receipt you for the corn before.) I had been laboring from home about one month, with sixty-two additions. Returning home on Friday evening before the third Lord’s day in August, to conduct a protracted meeting. We held six days with thirty-two additions. The people more interested than I ever witnessed, and if I had not had an appointment for another meeting I have no doubt there would have been several more additions. At the other appointment we had seven additions, and having still another appointment, I leave a brother to write for me while I go on my Master’s business. May we all be found at our post in the day of the Lord. Give our love to all the brethren, and accept a portion for yourself: I am your brother in hope of eternal life.
A. C. HOU.DEN.
For the Gospel Advocate
Bro. Lipscomb: — I have just concluded a meeting at Frankfort which lasted five days, during which time there was great interest manifested by all parties. When I commenced there was a Methodist meeting going on, but they agreed to give way for me to preach one discourse, after which they discontinued their meeting, and I had the field alone. The meeting resulted in fourteen accessions, twelve by immersion and two from the Baptists. After which I organized a congregation forty-two strong. I have never seen more interest or attention than was manifested, and I confidently believe that much of the good seed sown will bring forth fruit. My labors are almost everywhere crowned with success.
Yours in hope of immortality,
J. M. PICKENS.
FELLOWSHIP
We have received thirty-three dollars from the congregation at Rock Spring, Tenn., for Brother Neely, ten dollars from Blandford Station, Tenn., five from Lancaster, Ky., and five from a brother in Nashville, for Sister Speer, all of which has been forwarded.
D. L.
THE GOSPEL ADVOCATE
607
For the Gospel Advocate
FRANKLIN,
Tenn., Sep. 10th, 1866.
Bros. FANNING & LUCASCOMB:
I forward you an account of the success of the truth at this place during my visit. Our meeting has closed with eighteen additions to the congregation; one from the Baptist, three reclaimed, three by commendation, eleven by confession and immersion. I commenced at Hillsboro on last Wednesday night, and up to this instant we have had nine additions at that place, two from the Methodist and seven by confession and immersion. There is a manifest interest awakened in many places, and there is much to encourage the children of God. Only let us keep ourselves from idols and separate ourselves from all unholy alliances, and the kingdom that is not of this world will continue to extend until it covers the whole earth. Peace be with you.
Your brother in the great work of life,
JO. F. BROWN.
For the Gospel Advocate
HILLHAM,
Tenn., Aug. 31st, 1866.
Dear Bros. FANNING & LUCASCOMB:
Myself, Bro. Stover and Bro. Holman closed a meeting on the 27th inst., of eleven days continuance, at the Flat Creek Congregation, four miles from Livingston, Overton county, Tenn., with 48 or 50 additions to the church—27 from the world were buried with their Lord in baptism; one from the Cumberland Presbyterians, a prominent character, one from the Missionary Baptist, and one from the Protestant Methodist, were also immersed. Some 18 or 20 persons remained with us, some as backsliders came and asked forgiveness, and some who had been standing off came and united with us. There is the best prospect for good in this county that has been since the storm in the political elements—the prospect is that much good will be done by the plain declaration of truth. Large congregations attend, and much interest among the people. To the Lord be all the praise.
Yours in the hope of eternal life,
JAMES F. OWNSBY.
For the Gospel Advocate
TODD COUNTY,
Ky., Aug. 21st, 1866.
Bro. D. LUCASCOMB:
Dear Sir:—I know something of the suffering of our brethren down South. I have, therefore, been trying to aid them. I have solicited contributions to the amount of one hundred and fifty sacks of corn and one thousand pounds of bacon, which I shipped to Bros. Metcalf & Co. for distribution. I hope it has gone where it was most needed. Enclosed I send you five dollars, which you will please appropriate in the same way.
Truly yours,
T. J. WEBB.
THE GOSPEL ADVOCATE
THE GOSPEL AT FAYETTEVILLE, TENN.
Some weeks since we visited Fayetteville, Tenn., and were much pleased first, at the earnestness of the disciples; and, secondly, at the anxiety of a large portion of the citizens to hear the truth. Since our visit, we learn by a letter from Brother D. T. Nicks, that Brother Sewell added two to the Lord, and Brother Doctor Brants four more noble souls, to the family of the faithful. The beloved brothers and sisters in Fayetteville, we have reason to believe, will do their duty. We fear that Elder J. Morton who has done much to build up the cause, may remove to another section soon.
Will our correspondents be patient? We will do the best to give them all a hearing that is in our power. The reports from the churches, though encouraging to all, we have gladly given to the examination of other matter. We will hereafter give these in a form to occupy less room, and give more space to the communications.
D. L.
Bro. Fillmore will commence a school of vocal music in Murfreesboro on Monday after the 3rd Lord’s day in September. He informs us he cannot teach another session in Tennessee this year. Those who desire his instruction would do well to attend his class in Murfreesboro.
D. L.
For the Gospel Advocate.
September 6th, 1866.
Bro. Lascouls:—Bro. Mobley and myself held a meeting in Gadiz in the latter part of July. You were expected but did not come. Brother Mobley labored with great ability. Much good was done. There were eight additions to the church. Among them were H. G. Durnett, late of the Confederate Senate, and some very promising young men.
Your brother,
G. P. STREET.
CONSULTATION MEETING AT FRANKLIN.
At the meeting held at Murfreesboro, a consultation meeting was appointed, by invitation of the church at Franklin, Tenn., to convene in the disciples’ meeting-house of that place, on Tuesday, October 9th, at 10 A. M. We hope all the brethren and sisters everywhere, who feel an interest in such matters, will attend.
TO CORRESPONDENTS.
In writing for the Advocate, correspondents will please write on one side of the paper only. Write as distinctly as possible, and without flourishes. Proper names should be written very plain.