January 15, 1845

Vol. VIII. No. 23. Boston, Whole No. 193

Joshua V. Himes

THE ADVENT HERALD,
AND SIGNS OF THE TIMES REPORTER.
BEHOLD! THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH!! GO YE OUT TO MEET HIM!!!

VOL. VIII. NO. 23. Boston, Wednesday, January 15, 1845. WHOLE NO. 193.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.1

THE ADVENT HERALD

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IS PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY BY
J. V. HIMES,
AT NO. 14 DEVONSHIRE STREET, BOSTON.

J. V. Himes, S. Bliss, & A. Hale, Editors.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.2

Terms.—One Dollar per Volume, of 26 Numbers. Five Dollars for 6 Copies, Ten Dollars for 13 Copies.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.3

All communications for the Advent Herald, or orders for Books or remittances, should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass,” post paid.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.4

Post Masters are authorized by the Post Office Department to forward free of expense orders for, or to discontinue publications, and also money to pay for the same.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.5

Subscribers’ names with the State and Post Office should be distinctly given when money is forwarded Where the Post Office is not given, we are liable to misdirect the paper, or credit to the wrong person, as there are often several of the same name, or several Post Offices in the same town.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.6

The Safe Position

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Definite time has been one of the peculiar features of the Adventism of this country. While some in our own, and many in other lands, have been looking for the speedy personal coming of our Lord, without being united on the exact point of time for this event. Thus far we have supposed it possible to arrive at least within the circumference of a year of the time appointed for the Advent: nay more, we recently cherished the hope of seeing our Lord on a given day. But both of these periods have passed, and left us disappointed. Our best efforts have been employed in order so to harmonize the prophetic periods, as to bring their termination unitedly within a common circle. We have fastened upon events which we thought marked their rise, and which of course would lead to their conclusion. In a similar work, men of the most thoroughly disciplined minds, and of the purest hearts, both at home and abroad, both now and heretofore, have engaged but in vain. The fruitlessness of our own results, therefore, is not to us so much a matter of surprise. Though we are disposed to flatter ourselves with the assurance that we have arrived as nearly to the respective lines of these chronological dates, as most of our worthy predecessors in this field of research. Having ascertained what we believed to be the true starting points for these periods, we have urged the correctness of our position on time, with a positiveness which, at this point, may appear almost as strange to ourselves, as it has been unaccountable to our opposers. In so doing, we now confess, that we have honestly erred: and we trust that the past may so reflect wisdom upon the future, as to teach us that it is as dangerous to be too confident, as too sceptical; and that presumptuous belief deserves rebuke, as well as sluggish incredulity.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.7

After all our ingenuity has now been spent in attempts to learn the exact time for the Advent, and we have found that the main pillars of our hope are not sufficient in this particular to support us longer, we must be satisfied that no argument which may be drawn from a less important quarter can be of any better value. We are, therefore, bound, in all deference to the Word of God, to abandon our ground of definite time, at least, until we may be furnished with additional light. To this step we are now fairly urged. And we are heartily glad that we can now conscientiously yield to our friends on the other side some portion of the ground for which we have heretofore contended. Our conviction is that for wise reasons, the divine mind has forever concealed the precise rise of those periods, at the end of which his Son shall be revealed from heaven. So that we believe it above the power of man, to demonstrate either the year, the month, or the day, of their consummation.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.8

In making the above concession, we have no intentions of throwing ourselves back on the old ground of entire ignorance in relation to the chronological prophecies; the real truth in the case may be approximated; and our past labors have tended to this result. The system, therefore, as it has been styled, is as good now as ever, since it is not dependant for its existence on the expiration of one or more points of time: The historic prophecies are still to be credited and investigated. As intimated, we feel that we are not wide of the mark in our calculations and hopes. We there fore yield no portion of our former position, save the item of exact time. Our ground heretofore may have been too lofty: and we shall be rejoiced, if by descending a step or two, we can meet our honest opposers on a line more convenient and favorable for ourselves, and more likely to be beneficial to them: we also occasion an enlargement of the household, by being able to meet very many both near and remote with whom heretofore we could not so freely exchange fellowship, owing to our great tenacity for time. Nor should it be overlooked that one of the chief objections to our views is thus so far removed, that we may hope to receive no small addition to our ranks from among all the humble and devoted who heartily love Jesus and his appearing, but whose faith has never been adequate to grasp a definite point of time for that event. We can but cherish the expectation, that for the future, the truth on this glorious subject, as we hope to entertain and present it, will operate as a test and extractor of the faith of all who really belong to Christ.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.9

Lest we should still be misapprehended, let it be observed, that while we take the ground of indefinite time, we do not use that term in its broadest sense. We are as much as ever opposed to the doctrine which discards all knowledge of the time of the end, or which attempts to throw us out, on to the broad sea of uncertainty in relation to the second Advent of our Lord. Our indefinite time can be limited only by a small fraction of time: we are in the midst of certain points which have always been more or less in dispute among chronologists: and we feel satisfied that ere we pass from this disputed territory, we shall be conveyed into the kingdom of God. Our indefinite time is inconsistent with plans for future honor or worldly good. It is calculated to exert a constant and salutary influence upon our hearts and lives: it is not connected with the least abandonment of the great principles of Adventism as heretofore held by us; nor does it imply any essential diminution of confidence in what it has been believed is to be learned from the chronological prophecies—unless every chronologist on earth has been mistaken in his dates for the events which form the bounds in the prophecies, the Advent cannot be delayed beyond the fall of 1847: or we have mistaken the bounds, and if so the whole frame work of prophecy; which is not possible. The greatest apparent focal point in the chronological evidence no one will doubt is just at this point of time: and henceforth we wait in momentary expectation of deliverance.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.10

The utility of definite time has always been urged in its favor; and the inefficacy of indefinite time has been as stoutly urged. It has been said that the church and the world make no objection to the position of indefinitenees. But this will not be found so, when such time is presented with the above and other qualifications. We have ever maintained that the question before the religious world at this time is one which does not so much respect dates, as it does the character of the events which are just before us. We are now in a favorable situation for proving the sincerity of those professors who have opposed time, and not the event itself of the Lord’s coming: and we shall be extremely glad, if now we may secure the sympathy and co-operation of such. But the point after all is not one of like or dislike of utility or of inutility,—but what saith the Scriptures? If God has set the broad seal of his approbation on the proclamation of the coming of his Son within a specific time, it is equally as certain that when we assume a ground yet more in accordance with his Word, He will grant us equal manifestations of his favor. The experiment should first be made, before an unfavorable conclusion be drawn. It has been made with signal success abroad, and very recently at home. During the period of what was known as the tarrying time, converts were made to our faith, and souls were turned unto God. The present is not unlike that period, and may be safely relied on as a season in which, with diligence and prayer, God’s blessing may be expected.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.11

It is said again, that time wrought a great work in our own sanctification and consecration to God. True: a period of time was encompassed within our feeble comprehension, and its tendency was to humble, abase, and purify us, just as sudden premonitions of approaching death affect every pious heart. But because death does not consummate its work at the period apprehended, we are not to conclude that all our reasonings in relation to it has been incorrect. Our apprehensions have only been a little premature. The brevity of time was the main spring which aroused us to preparations for that event: if that time has been hastily anticipated, it is no less certain that death is nigh, and that an indefinite period before the trying hour may still exert its holy influence on the soul. So in regard to the expected Advent; time wrought its benefits for us, while our eye could yet trace it in the future: nor less should the reflection of its liability to close forever at any moment, exert its corresponding power.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.12

It is urged that indefinite time induces a spirit of slumber If this be true, then it does appear that our faith must be feeble on every point but that of time, when there is a great variety of evidence on which faith should be proportionately distributed. The legitimate tendencies of our present ground are highly unfavorable to sleep. Standing as we do where the prophetic numbers have disappeared from our view,—the natural and moral signs blazing out before our eyes, and the seventh trumpet liable at any moment to pour its heavy thunders into our ears,—this surely is no position for indifference or slumber. As well might the clime-burnt mariner sleep at his wheel, because his reckoning has run out without his being able to reach the long wished for port. Or as well might we relapse into indifference, because the usual moment for the arrival of the locomotive has passed by, and we are not pursuing our proposed journey. Every such passing moment should naturally increase our solicitude, and awaken our watchfulness. So now, as we have no means of estimating the precise hour for our Lord’s advent, our interest in that event should rise with every fleeting moment.—And so far from taking advantage of such a delay, and of excusing ourselves for negligence in relation to this event, we should rather be grateful for the light that God has so condescendingly vouchsafed to us, and let its every beam aid in guiding us to glory. More distinctness of time would have been granted, had infinite wisdom deemed it for our good and his glory. Let a trial be made of looking for the Lord to-day, to-day, TO-DAY: let every morning and every evening be occupied in this service: let the conviction everywhere follow us, that the Lord may come the present moment. Such a position will not only be followed by a highly blessed effect, as our own experience can testify, but it is a practicable position; it is one in which the Scriptures clearly sustain us. This position will impart constant fervor to our prayers, induce a spirit of abiding watchfulness over our thoughts and words, regulate our plans, and give nerve and activity to our religious actions. It is said of Dr. Watts, that he habitually retired to rest with his soul so calmly stayed on God, and so full of the realities of the eternal world, that he felt a perfect resignation to the will of God, to be awakened either in this world or the next. If the ground we now advocate be occupied as it should, at no one moment will the soul wish the judgment deferred, in order to make for itself a more thorough preparation. If results equal to those which have heretofore followed our labors, do not attend them on the ground now occupied, it must be because of some reprenensible deficiency in us at present, or the motives and feelings which recently inspired our actions were not altogether right in the sight of God.HST January 15, 1845, page 177.13

Another difficulty to be encountered in abandoning definite time, arises out of the well known fact, that it has supported our faith thus far—we have been born and nurtured in it—it has been our staff as we have advanced in our rugged pilgrimage, so that to be called to go forward without time, seems like periling our very lives. But the same hand that has evidently conducted us in the former instance, will be more than ever nigh in the latter. Besides, we have learned somewhat to walk, we have come up measurably to the stature of men, and we have nerve and strength to occupy the proposed position. Here we can stand relieved in a measure from that sense of responsibility which is attendant on definite time, and with no undue anxiety for the issue of our cause:—calm, filled with peace, desiring & hoping a speedy deliverance, from all the various proofs of the coming of the Son of Man with which the Bible abounds. Here every duty in all the relations of life will be most likely to receive its share of attention: and here, every grace of the Christian will be sure to thrive. And here too, we think a danger may be avoided into which we are suspicious some may have fallen; we refer to that which probabably has its foundation in the human mind—a liability to suffer the mind, when it has fixed itself on a particular point of time, to become more engrossed with that mere abstract period, than it is with the great work of a sufficient preparation to meet a distinct time. An indefinite period will open our hearts to us, and test the nature of our faith as never before. Yea, more, it will lift us above those fluctuations of feeling and of hope which naturally result from the coming and passing of stated periods. The indefinite ground is, for the present at least, the safest ground.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.1

In this connection it may not be irrelevant in passsing, to remark, that in taking the position of indefinite time, we thereby avoid an error which has become somewhat general, viz., that of supposing that the Holy Ghost seals upon the heart a definite period of time. It is not to be supposed that God has blest us, as we have received and proclaimed time in the abstract, but having approximated the time of the Advent, as we have associated with our faith, corresponding watchfulness, prayerfulness, and true primitive zeal in the cause of Christ. The Spirit of God will never attest in opposition to a plain statement of Scripture. If the precise terminus of the chronological periods is, as we have reason to believe, purposely involved in obscurity, it is presumption to conclude that the Spirit of God reveals or bears witness to their exact beginning or ending. With the hearty reception of the doctrine of our Lord’s immediate coming, we have received a greater or less manifestation of the Spirit’s power: from this fact, we have, to some extent, drawn erroneous conclusions. We need not take the ground that we have reason to dispute the genuiness of our whole experience, because the time for the Advent, which might then have been associated in our minds with the general doctrines of it, seemed to have been as much set home to the soul, as the other truths of the system. Let us carefully sift the vile from the precious, and carefully retain everything which is good. Or if there be insuperable difficulties in so doing, and it be hard to reconcile our experience with the passing of certain periods, let us derive some satisfaction from somewhat similar instances of disappointment in the history of Moses and Elijah and Jonah. Let us enquire, if the pages of inspiration themselves do not contemplate these very disappointments.—At all events, let the past, so far as it has its lessons of admonition, be ever under our eye, to check us from all unscriptural conclusions, and to teach us to temper our confidence with humility and moderation:—let it teach us the difference between the impulses of our own nature, and the operations of the Divine Spirit, and let it lead us to a more patient and thorough investigation of the plain testimony of inspiration.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.2

As Adventists, we wish to occupy the true position, let it be popular or unpopular. We want a few simple but substantial points around which to rally and concentrate all our strength—points that will address both the common sense, and the faith of all honest believere in Christ,—that can be supported with a tolerable degree of ease, without a resort to anything like fanciful or strained expositions of Scripture. We are liable to injure this precious cause by bringing to its help that which is of doubtful import; or like the ants at our feet, which pick up the first grains in their way, by hastily seizing on the nearest materials at hand, with which to construct the temple of truth.—Advocates as we profess to be of the truth, and the truth only, let every offering which we bring to her holy shrine, be such as will contribute to the solidity and beauty of the whole edifice.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.3

Lest we should be thought too hastily yielding the point of definite time, we would invite an attention to the many difficulties with which this subject is yet encumbered. Every period is more or less a matter of dispute among chronologists.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.4

“The seven times, or 2520 years of the Jewish subversion, we have always dated from the captivity of Manasseh. This captivity is placed in B. C. 677, or the year 4047 of the Julian Period, in the 22nd year of Manasseh’s reign, by Dr. Prideaux, Arch-Bishop Usher, Jackson, Playfair, Blair and others; Guthrie, Horne, and Calmet, date it B. C. 676, Dr. Hales, B. C. 675, (as the Jews in Seder Olam Rabba, and the Talmudists, date it, See Ganz, p. 45) and Dr. Jarvis, B. C. 674.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.5

We reckon the 2450 years of the Great Jubilee from the captivity of Jehoiakim in the fourth year of his reign. This is dated B. C. 607, by Ptolemy, Petavius, Usher, etc.; but Playfair, Whiston, Prideaux, and others date it from B. C. 606; while Berosus, Blair, Jackson and Dr. Hales date it in B. C. 605.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.6

The 2300 days we begin at the commencement of the 70 weeks, at the going forth of the decree to restore and build Jerusalem, in the seventh year of the reign of Artaxerxes Longimanus. B. C. 457, is assigned as the date of this decree, by Blair, Prideaux, Ferguson, Horne, Watson, Ptolemy, and the great majority of commentators. Other chronologers reckon the 70 weeks from the twentieth year of Artaxerxes. Usher, Petavius, and others thus reckon, and date from the year 4260 of the Julian Period, or B. C. 454. Hengstenberg dates it and reckons from B. C. 455.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.7

The “seven weeks, and the sixty and two weeks,” or 69 weeks to the commencement of Christ’s ministry, terminated, according to our chronology, A. D. 27, at Christ’s baptism. In this we were sustained by Dr. Hales and others; but Prideaux, Ferguson, and others, who terminate the 69 weeks in A. D. 26, contend that they terminated with the baptism of John, and that our Savior was not baptized till three years later: while Usher, Petavius, Hengstenberg, Lydyat, and others extend the sixty-nine weeks to A. D. 29 or 30.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.8

The crucifixion of our Savior is dated in the years 31,32, 33, and 34, from the vulgar era, by different chronologists.—Dr. Hales contends that it was A.D. 31; while Sir Isaac Newton argues that it was in A.D. 34. Scaliger, Usher, Pearson, Bacon, and others argue that it was in A. D. 33. Ferguson, Prideaux, Bullinger, Blair and others, terminate the 70 weeks at the crucifixion; while Lydyiat, Usher, Petavius, and others, extend them three and a half years beyond.”HST January 15, 1845, page 178.9

Again, Browne in his “Ordo Saculorum” takes the ground that the seventh of Artaxerxes, fell in the year B. C. 459: on this hypothosis, the 2300 years would end in 1842. Jahn (See his Hebrew Commonwealth,) makes the reign of Artaxerxes commence B. C. 464. Consequently on the supposition that it was during the 7th of his reign, that “the decree” went forth, and then the 2300 years would be complete with A. D. 1844.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.10

In the first No. of the “Shield and Review,” will be found an elaborate and able article on this subject by Bro. N. N. Whiting, to which the reader is referred. The above will suffice, in this place, as a specimen of the different opinions of good authors affecting the rise of the “2300 days.’ It seems to me, therefore, unsafe, if not improper, to fix as a matter of faith, on any day, month, and perhaps it ought to be added, year, for the cleansing of the sanctuary. Still, there are periods in the future, to which we may look forward with some degree of hope, for the realization of our desires: constant vigilance, however, should not be overlooked.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.11

If any, reasoning from the types, suppose that the month and the day of the Advent may be ascertained, there is at least an equal difficulty in the way of such a supposition. True, some of the types have been fulfilled in the order of exact time; but others have not: it is therefore unsafe to infer that the order of time must be observed in those which are yet unfulfilled. We are left, therefore, entirely in the dark as to any certainty about the chronological fulfillment of the unfulfilled types. They may, and they may not be chronologically observed.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.12

We are aware that we are conducting the reader on to new ground: and this position may seem to conflict with certain Scripture texts that have heretofore been construed into a knowledge of exact time. But none of us have supposed that such passages teach us our ability to understand the month or the day for the Advent: if, therefore, they have not so taught us, with what greater propriety is it assumed that they may teach the year for this event. It is, therefore, presumable that such texts are designed to express only in general terms, our capacity to understand something about the time of the end, just as the “signs” show us about where we are on the scale of time. We are bound to adopt this conclusion, or to take it for granted, either that we have not arrived at “the time of the end,” and of course the seals of the prophetic books are not yet broken, or to infer that we are not among “the wise” to whom understanding is promised. To make the prophecy good, it is not necessary that the wise should understand every item in relation to time, any more than that of every portion of the prophetic history. That my vision should not be entirely clear on the most remarkable books of inspiration, is no less wonderful, than that my understanding is insufficient to grasp less obscure pages of Sacred Writ. “A wise man’s heart discerneth both time and judgment.” (Ecclesiastes 8:5.) A passage parallel to this, we may find in Luke 12:56,—“But how is it that ye cannot discern this time?” Now whatever discernment those should have possessed, whose blindness was here rebuked, such a degree of discernment a wise man’s heart will entertain. It is evident that the cavilling Jews were upbraided, not so much for their willful ignorance of a certain abstract period of time, as for their blindness to events which were afterwards attendant on time. That “God has appointed a day in which he will judge the world,” affords no evidence that he has, or ever will publish such a day to mortals before its occurrence, any more than that as “the stork in heaven knoweth her appointed times,” it is rational to conclude that she foresees the precise time in which she should exchange a severe for a milder clime: or because there is “an appointed time to man on earth,” that therefore man must necessarily have that time previously made known to him.—The passage in 1 Thessalonians 5:4,—“But ye brethren are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief,” cannot be interpreted to teach the doctrine of their knowledge of the definite time of the judgment day; or the apostle would not have found it necessary in his next epistle, to correct an erroneous impression, which they had already formed, viz. that the day of the Lord was at hand. On this point he is particular to warn them not to be “soon shaken in mind ... as that the day of Christ is (eneatekoton,) immediately at hand:” because certain important events were to transpire before that day. It does seem to us, that when the apostle says, “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you,” he means to be understood to express a sentiment similar to that of our Savior, when asked of his disciples, Acts 1:6-8, “Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons which the Father hath put in his own power:” i.e. it is not for you,my immediate disciples, to have information relative to the subject proposed, but it is your destined privilege and honor to receive copious effusions of the Spirit, and to be “witnesses” throughout the earth of my teachings, miracles, resurrection and ascension.—So considering the remoteness of the Lord’s coming from the brethren at Thessalonica, it was only necessary to inform them of their own preparedness for that day—of its suddenness on the wicked, accompanied by a single sign by which its approach might be inferred. The inference drawn from the text in Revelation 3:3, is not conclusive to our mind. The reasoning of the Revelator is made to stand thus: as a failure to watch for the Lord’s appearing will secure for such his coming as a thief, in an hour of which they know not: the converse of this threatening must be realized in the case of all who do “watch.” But observe the term—“hour.” If this language is to be understood literally, then those who quote it will find it proves too much: since they would not, we think, maintain that those who watch are to know the precise hour for the Lord’s coming, any more than are others who do not watch. Let these and all similar texts have their natural import, and be understood in a general sense, and then they may be quoted with propriety and effect. They certainly contain the doctrine of a general knowledge of time; they of course mean something, but not so much as, in our zeal for the truth, we might be tempted to make them.HST January 15, 1845, page 178.13

In relation to all such chronological terms, we may derive instruction, by carefully noticing the manner in which the New Testament writers invariably speak, when alluding to the same subject—the coming of Christ. We instance them in this case, as we are accustomed to in other cases, where both the Old and New Testament writers are understood to discourse on like topics, simply because the latter are more explicit and intelligible. Their most common method of presenting the doctrine of the end of the world, is not by numbers, but by events and signs: thus leaving us in the dark in relation to definite time. Now while we stand in waiting for more light on the specific time for the Lord’s return, and while, should we ever see farther into the future, we shall not flinch to take our stand accordingly, and while we desire to pay all due respect to every portion of God’s word, and not to despise the chronological prophecies, yet we are willing to leave the doubtful, for that which is more intelligible.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.1

Let us first notice the figurative terms which these speakers and writers associate with the contemplated event, “As a thief in the night.” In the suddenness of its coming it shall be alike on all, but not in its effects. He who watches his possessions may not know at what hour of the night the thief designs his approach, but if he watches, it is all as though he did know, because he thereby saves his house from being broken through. While he who watches not, is destined to be both surprised and destroyed by the thief. “As a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.” This certainly is sweeping language, and must be understood to include the righteous, with the wicked. But it by no means follows that it may not be in some degree anticipated by the former: nor does it follow that because the word snare is here employed, that therefore all who are thus ensnared must be destroyed. The error into which we here fall arises from the idea with which the term is generally associated, viz. that of destruction. On a similar ground our opposers have fallen into the mistake of supposing that our Savior must have been speaking of the destruction of Jerusalem, in Matthew 24:28, because he uses the terms, “carcass” and “eagles” in joint connection.—The proper method is, to seize on the main feature or idea in a figure or parable, and to apply it to the matter under consideration.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.2

The circumstances under which our Savior represents the righteous, and of course those who shall be heeding the admonition at that time to watch, is presumptive evidence that they will be in ignorance of the precise point of time of his coming. “I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken and the other shall be left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.”—Luke 17:34-36. It is reasonable to suppose that our Savior introduced these circumstances, for the purpose of guarding us against the opinion of knowing the precise period of his advent, and that he might, in other language, confirm the declaration which he had before repeated, that of that day and hour none but the Father knew. So that it is clear, that if the year of the advent may be approximated, the day may not be. For could it be, from anything that is yet a matter of revelation, it is natural to suppose that the truly pious would wish to anticipate it by a relief from worldly cares and pursuits, and in making preparation for such a day.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.3

To the same effect might be urged the plain and positive declarations of our Lord on this subject. These are both general and exceedingly specific. Matthew 13:33, “Watch and pray, for ye know not when the time is.” Luke 12:40, “Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” Mark 13:35, “Watch ye, therefore; for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cock-crowing or in the morning.” Mark 13:32, “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.” The light which is clearly reflected from the previous passages, must aid in the interpretation of the last one quoted. It is commonly said in reply, that this exposition clashes with the idea of the precise time ever being known by Christ himself. We should prefer admitting this supposition, rather than to assume other ground which must involve us in greater difficulties still. If the text may be so construed as to teach that the Son does or ever shall have a knowledge of the day and hour, then by parity of reasoning, angels and men may equally be informed. But for the definite hour none of us have ever contended: and yet we might presume to know the latter with as much positiveness, as that of the former. For one, we wish to appropriate to ourselves no passage of Scripture that is not plainly and fairly ours. Nor do we wish to presume to a more perfect knowledge of the time of the Lord’s coming, than the Bible clearly warrants: just so far as that points the way, we shall boldly and resolutely advance: we have not courage to go farther.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.4

It might also be hinted that the Savior’s frequent admonitions to watchfulness is an implied declaration of our inability to foresee the precise time. These do not precede, but follow his instructions respecting those events and signs which are to mark the time of his coming. Read the history again, and it cannot escape your notice, that such events and signs were to be hailed as harbingers of approaching redemption: but the context makes it plain, that such joyful emotions of hope were to be succeeded by that fear which is joined with unremitting vigilance. There is an emphasis in such frequent warnings to watchfulness, with the above views of time. And while the “periods,” the events, and the signs cheer and inspire us with hope of speedy deliverance, just as the budding of the fig-tree awakens confidence in the approach of summer, so with our eye intently fixed on the last word of warning—“Watch!” we mean to be ready at a moment’s notice for the grand consummation, lest coming suddenly he find us sleeping.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.5

That such has been the arrangements of Providence in relation to the revealed time for the Advent, should awaken within us no spirit of murmuring or repining. True obedience and filial confidence will lead us wherever the voice of our Father is heard, though each succeeding step but add to to the severity of the way. It is not for us to choose on what ground, or under what encouragements we will obey God. To be “offended” at this period of our discipleship, would betray a rebellious heart altogether unfit for the kingdom of God. Let us rather be consoled with the reflection that we have passed the last great landmark on our tedious journey, that the great events and signals of prophecy are in our rear, and that these admonish us in the clearest tones of a speedy termination to all our toils. The beacons to the mariner are arranged to meet his necessities: they leave him before he enters the destined port. So with the great light-houses which have thus far lent us their grateful aid to direct us from one point of danger to another on our long voyage to glory. And as the mariner, under such circumstances, seizes on some familiar knoll or mound which is scattered along his course, in order to bring him fully into harbor, so we by marking the lesser, but more abundant and not less significant objects which the great chart points out as incident to the conclusion of our passage, may know that speedily the voyage will be forever closed. Prayer, patience, trials, watchings, are the last signals which bound the coast of glory.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.6

Were our light imperfect or insufficient to teach us our general bearing on the great sea of time, we might take occasion to sorrow: but it is not so; the “periods” have not lost their value: the natural signs indicate our proximity to the haven of rest: the sun has been darkened, the moon has withheld her light, and the stars have fallen from heaven. The moral signs are more glaring and expressive than ever. The times are perilous—scoffers and mockers and evil servants abound—many are departing from the faith—the form of godliness is everywhere manifest, while its power is denied—ease, luxury, wealth, pride, ambition, strikingly prove that the church is in its last stage, and is already prepared for its final rejection of God.—Everything portends the rapid finale of earth’s last grand drama! Our position by no means justifies us in sinking into inertness and stupidity. The second wo is past; behold the third wo cometh quickly! The sixth seal has already opened upon us. The seventh trumpet is liable, at any moment to blow it thundering blasts! And is the present a time for rest, or sleep, or despondency? Shall we close our eyes again, when the mercy of God has been so obvious in opening them to the rich revelations of his Word on the glorious future? Can any thing short of treasures in heaven satisfy the ambition of our souls? O let the value of the prize, the splendor of the crown promised to him that overcometh, incite our every nerve and power, while a single step of the race remains unrun.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.7

Reflections

JVHe

1. This view of the subject will serve to humble us. To no mortal man, to no angel in heaven, is revealed the appointed day for the final judgment. This is a secret locked up forever in the Divine mind: and there our whole natures respond, let it repose. It is possible that we may have been exalted in view of what we have supposed to be God’s special condescension in leading us to a knowledge of the exact time for the fulfillment of all those great events which in anticipation swelled the big souls of prophets, priests and kings. But this supposition we must now relinquish; we hope this act may exert its humiliating effect upon our hearts. We have seen the truth so vividly, and felt its power so mightily; we have so frequently witnessed its revolutionising efficacy on all classes of men—the proud abased, the vile reformed, the scoffer silenced, the infidel redeemed, and the learned humbled, that it is barely possible that we may have taken honor to ourselves for some of these wonderful works. Our cause for a while seemed destined to find a home in the bosoms of some of the wise and honored. But as it was eighteen hundred years ago, so again, it was only necessary to have the latent quickening principles of the Gospel doctrine developed, in order to test the real faith of its professed disciples. We now find that there is no more prospect of adding the mighty and the noble to our ranks, than when the same glad tidings were proclaimed in the times of our Master and his despised apostles. The blind yet love their blindness, the rich hug their wealth, the sensual are inflamed with their lusts, the Pharisees contend for their traditions, forms and painted goodness, and the priests are inflated with their haughty consequence, and are chief in exercising their wicked tyranny over the timid flock of God, and in opposing the coming kingdom of David’s Son. The cause we advocate has had its reverses and its trials, as well as its seasons of triumph and encouragement. And now we have reason for humility, that so many for whom it was to be hoped Jesus had shed his precious blood, should give such demonstrations of hostility or indifference to his approaching glorious reign on the earth, and that such an humble few should be found hailing the anticipated return of our once crucified, but now exalted Lord. Nor less should our own faithfulness in God’s word, and our own weak attempts to promulgate it, awaken within us the deepest humility before God. If the peculiar circumstances which have thus far attended us, and the trials and disappointments through which we have passed, only abase us deeper than ever in the dust before our Maker, we shall have cause for thankfulness and praise.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.8

2. This view of the subject will teach us to enlarge the bounds of our charity. This is a grace, as is well known, which sustains in the Scriptures the first rank among the graces, the absence of which can be compensated by no other excellencies. This virtue has had its influence over us, and from the first been like fragrant oil upon our heads. Former differences have melted before us like snow under the rays of a noon-day sun, and in immediate prospect of being united in the endearing and everlasting bonds of brotherhood in heaven, we have thought of nothing, spoke of nothing, sung of nothing, but the coming glory. But our expectations have been a little premature. In the meantime, some of us have kept ourselves busy in exploring the heretofore almost untrodden mines of truth: perhaps our researches in such departments have not been followed with the same results. The natural tendency of which is to abate the ardor of that charity which is the bond of perfectness. We have seen danger of our relapsing into that carnal spirit which we formerly cherished, which is so repulsive to every truly humble and pious heart, and so odious to God. We have found more tests for Christian character perhaps, than the Word has recognised: among these tests the item of time for the Advent may have been conspicuous. We may have been less cordial in our fellowship for our brethren whose views in every other respect may have harmonized with our own. For the future, true charity will require of us to indulge a brother in his belief or disbelief on definite time. If such a one believes he sees that point, which is more shrouded in mystery to us, let him have the liberty to proclaim it. We may have been too severe in our judgment of those who have opposed exact time, and the doctrines associated with the Advent. If we have erred here, it has not we trust been intentional. It has been one of our greatest fears lest our zeal should push us too far, or our caution restrain us within too narrow bounds of duty and usefulness. It is neither our pleasure nor wish to censure or reprobate one of Christ’s members. We pray for true charity: and if our present views shall serve to give more free growth to this lovely virtue, we shall rejoice. We hail as our beloved brethren all of every class and clime who love and look for the Coming One. A common, a precious bond encircles us all—a bond which we trust will strengthen and contract with every renewed assault from the enemies of our hope, and every returning storm of trial.HST January 15, 1845, page 179.9

3. The view which has now been taken will be calculated to save the cause of truth from sinking into disrespect. This is a worthy consideration: for we are anxious to do nothing against the truth, but every thing for the truth. We are always ready to hazard the truth, when we are confident that our convictions of it are well founded. Truth is well able to stand upon its own feet, and we never wish to construct a base for it out of our own imaginations. As those to whom the truth has been entrusted, we are bound to preserve it in its own clear native garb, and to save it from all unjust imputations. It is evident that while definite time has wrought much good, it has exerted a contrary tendency on minds perhaps of a less reflecting cast. With the passing of periods in which our Lord was expected, the impression has prevailed that the theory was necessarily exploded. These are consequences which are to be deplored, and if possible avoided. We wish to take a position so clearly warranted from Scripture, that those who see fit to oppose it, shall do it on their own responsibility; and if they perish, it may not be because of our imprudence, or misapprehension of the Word of God.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.1

4. This view of the subject, by confining us to the plainest teachings of God’s Word, will best secure our own peace and good, and the glory of God. Our peculiar views of time have been the occasion of bringing upon us some trials. Not that we would shun trials, when they are necessarily connected with the reception of the truth: but there is no virtue in unnecessarily exposing ourselves to them. We have heretofore regarded the chronological dates almost as though they were a part of the inspired text. Our confidence in their correctness has been too strong: so that we have been led to make affirmations in regard to the event anticipated which, if God has not condemned, certain it is that neither truth nor the souls of men have demanded. It is enough for us to express our opinion on the doctrines of the Bible, to fortify such opinions by clear substantial proofs gathered from the Sacred pages, to urge them home to the understandings and hearts of our hearers with earnestness and eloquence, and there to leave them. Some through fear of rejecting the teachings of the Bible, and not being able to trace or understand the reasoning from the prophetic periods, have been led to embrace definite time on the authority of others. From a similar cause the way has been opened for the introduction of dreams, revelations, impressions, or a reliance on a particular blessing in evidence of the coming of the Lord at a given time. Through fear of putting ourselves too much under the control of our reason, and not relying sufficiently on the leadings of the Spirit of truth, we may have erred, on the one hand, by not suffering reason to speak when her voice was needed, and on the other, by casting ourselves too unreservedly on that gracious instrumentality which heaven has provided for our seasons of extremity as the pupils of Christ. It is possible that while we have sought to honor the Spirit, we may have dishonored the God of the Bible. Far be it from us to decry the value of the Holy Spirit as a guide to truth; it is all important that we seek his aid in all our investigations of the Sacred Scriptures: but with the assistance of that blessed Teacher, let every gift a gracious Providence has bestowed upon us, be invited to co-operate, and every sentiment or hope we may cherish, pass under the searching scrutiny of God’s revealed Word. The truth alone will promote our good, and leave its precious fruits in our hearts, and in the end, is that alone which results in a revenue of praise and glory to God.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.2

Let us therefore, wherein we may detect any defect in our Christian character, or wherein we may amend our way, with the same commendable promptitude as ever, arise to the work. Let us not be disheartened by the trials of the way: let us seize with avidity on the teachings of the past, and appropriate them to our present and future improvement: let us remember our recent deep sense of unworthiness, our natural vileness, our heart felt confesssions, and our consecration of all to God: let our moderation be known unto all men; let our humility be complete; our meekness and gentlenesss like Christ; our prayers incessant; our labors abundant; and our patience perfect under the brief triumph of our numberless enemies, let the future with all its searching and overpowering realities follow us with every rising and setting sun; let our words, our actions, our secret thoughts, our hidden desires be all regulated by the tremendous decisions of an impending judgment. F. G. Brown.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.3

Worcester, Mass. Dec. 1844.

Advent Herald & Reporter

No Authorcode

“The Lord is at Hand.”

BOSTON, JANUARY 15, 1845.

In the Field Again

JVHe

It was a bright and cheering hope we cherished in the Seventh Month of this Jewish year, when we ceased our public labors, and looked for the consummation, and the endless rest of the saints, supposing we had finished our severe and arduous labors of public lecturing, controversy, and entreaty, and the intense and perplexing labors of the press. But the time has passed, and so far as the exact period of time is concerned in which we looked for the consummation of our hope, we were wholly disappointed. Our hope as to a point of time was cut off. But not so with the hope itself: this is still good, and will be revealed in the Father’s appointed time, to the joy of all who wait and hope to the end.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.4

Being still placed in a condition that requires labor in the vineyard, for ourselves and others, we regard it as our most imperious duty to gird up the loins of our mind, and engage afresh and with all our might in the work that God in his Providence has seen proper to lay before us. Hence, we have again put the Advent press in full operation; and to the extent of our means are scattering the light of truth with as much zeal, and so far as we can learn, with as much success as ever. Having put our accusers to shame, and lived down the hate and malice of opposers at home, we have resolved, as time may allow, to visit our brethren abroad; and, by the blessing of God, we intend to plead the Advent cause in pvopria persona to the extent of our opportunities. The Advent question will never sleep. It will live; and, by its mighty and irresistless energy, will keep the elements of opposition to the reign of our King in active commotion,—“sorely afflicting” a time serving priesthood and laity, and arousing the ire, and demonical hate of a “wicked and adulterous generation.” We know what we have to meet; but, we are not to be detered from a work so grand, so glorious and sublime, by the threats of vengeance from the enemies of God. We look upon the opposition to this cause, as exhibited in the form of threats, or in any other shape, with supreme contempt and scorn. We have counted the cost, and shall to the extent of the means which God has, or may give us, agitate, agitate, AGITATE, until the slumbering watchmen with their churches shall see the falsity of their position, or feel the full force of the truth, that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.5

Our position in relation to time has been fully given in previous numbers of this paper. We can count no exact time now from any data of human chronology, yet we believe that the Advent will take place within the few years of disputed time among chronologists. We are now bound to watch and wait continually for the coming of the Lord, as being at the door, that when he cometh and knocketh we may open to him immediately.—Luke 12:36.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.6

Our position as to labor is, fully to occupy until the Lord shall come. Our work now in this time of trial is to comfort the saints, to re-arouse the slumbering churches to a candid examination of the Advent doctrine, and once more publish salvation through a crucified Redeemer in its fulness and power. We must, as the ambassadors of Christ, seek to be filled with faith and the Holy Spirit. What little time remains, we are to be more bold, faithful, and indefatigable than ever. May the God of Israel nerve us up to the work, and may we never hold our peace or cease from the conflict, “until he make Jerusalem a praise in the whole earth.” With these views, we have once more entered the field.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.7

Being invited by the brethren of Waterbury, Vt., to make them a visit, we regarded it as an opening for the commencement of a series of public Conferences. Accordingly on the 20th ult., we met with the congregation in that place. There was a large gathering of brethren and sisters from the neighboring towns, and a number of lecturers from different parts of the country. We found them united in one hope, of the Advent being at the door, and, if possible, cherishing a stronger faith than ever. Our meetings were characterized by a deep religious interest. There appeared to be no giving up, or drawing back as to the faith or hope of believers. Some, however, entertained the opinion that our work was done, as it related to the conversion of sinners.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.8

But, as the meeting progressed, this view was given up by most; and a desire was expressed by all to have right views on this all important question. The most of the lecturing brethren present resolved again to commence their labors, and publish the glad tidings of the kingdom at hand everywhere, in order to the salvation of sinners, as well as the comfort and edification of the saints.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.9

Some Features of the Character of the Adventists

JVHe

The Advent congregation in this place is large, and is composed of many of the most pious, benevolent, and stable minded persons in the vicinity. They have left the churches of which they were members, and as a matter of principle, will no longer give support to these ministers and churches or professed benevolent institutions which unite with the ungodly in the crusade against the Advent cause. One brother alone has been in the habit of giving one hundred and fifty dollars annually to the Baptist Home Missionary Society; and to other benevolent agencies of the church in the same proportion. We found many noble and benevolent minds of this cast in the different parts of the state. In the hands of such men, any good cause may be trusted with safety. Yet in reference to this class of persons, which by the way may be found in every place where the Advent doctrine has been preached, the “Vermont Observer,” the organ of the Baptist denomination in that State, in a recent number says: “The vagaries of Miller have sifted the churches of those members which would ever be but a curse; and it can be hoped that what remains are sterling, and may be efficient. It is in such that the strength of a church consists, not in numbers.” And strange to relate, these very members “that would ever be but a curse,” are daily importuned to come back! such is the consistency of our opponents.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.10

Union in Support of the Cause

JVHe

There are seven or eight towns in the vicinity of Waterbury in which there are Advent meetings. These have united in a plan for the support of Elders among them for the regular administration of the ordinances. Elders Kimball and Reynolds are laboring with them. The “heresy” is deep-rooted, and well organized in heart in that vicinity, and the “vagaries of Miller” will be found as permanent and as solid, as a covenant or creed of mans device.HST January 15, 1845, page 180.11

For their faith does not stand now, as formerly in the wisdom (vagaries) of men, but in the power of God.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.1

Fanaticism Repudiated

JVHe

An attempt has been made by our opponents to identify those brethren with fanatics and fanaticism; and thus to stab the cause by this false pretence. But it should be known that they, as well as our brethren generally, wholly repudiate the errors and fanaticism into which some have run, full as much, yea more than do those who thus charge them with it. We weep over it, but our opponents rejoice, knowing that it will do us injury, and if suffered to prevail will destroy the Advent cause. Nothing of course would suit them better. But let it be distinctly understood that these brethren, as well as others in all parts of the country, have taken a stand against all kinds of fanaticism, such as “spiritual redemption,” “discerning of spirits,” working miracles,” etc. into which some have been led. We understand this matter, and know from past history, and present facts that no good has ever come by these movements, but evil, and only evil, and that continually. Though these persons profess the highest state of holiness, and the most extraordinary powers yet they can never boast of the most rigid adherence to the Moral Law, or of the most faithful discharge of social and domestic duties. A violation of the one, and a neglect of the other is esteemed by many of them as a virtue, or a right which is given them by the Spirit, i. e. by their impressions, which are of course just in accordance with the state of their heart, which when corrupt becomes the fountain of evil thoughts, adulteries, etc. These persons do not arrive at this state at once, but by degrees; so that what some would first shudder to think of, is afterwards done with delight as a part of their religion, which, they say, is taught them by the Spirit.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.2

Now we wish it understood, once for all, that these things are no part of “Millerism,”—no even of the “vagaries of Miller.” They have no more connection with the Advent cause, than they have with the Baptist or Methodist cause. They had these evils among them in their rise; and if they had more of God’s Spirit and general revivals among them now, they would have these developments in proportion.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.3

Visits to other Places

JVHe

Dec. 23. Visited Montpelier Vt., and gave a lecture in the Free Congregational Meeting House. We had a good audience, and a candid hearing. There are a few Adventists in this place, who have a regular meeting; and a very little labor would bring out many who were convinced of the truth of the Advent doctrine, by brother Miller’s labors in that place some years ago. Dea. Wood, with the little band, stand fast, and I trust will, to the end.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.4

Dec. 24. Gave a lecture in the Court House, in Burlington. There was good attention by a respectable audience. The brethren have lately come into possession of the Baptist Meeting House, which was owned by Dea. C. Bennes, a leading Adventist. The church shut out the Advent doctrine, and so shut themselves out of the house, and removed to the Court House. Bro. Sawin, was to commence his labors with the Advent congregation about the 1st of January, and we should think under encouraging prospects of doing good in that town and vicinity.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.5

Dec. 25. Being shut out of the places of public worship in Vergennes, Vt., we had our meeting at the house of Bro. Austin. It was filled to excess, and a good impression produced. Being shut out from the empty houses of worship and treated with scorn, they will be under the necessity of providing a place of their own, which I understand they intend to do without delay. Yes, God will have a “lamp” in Vergennes, which will give light in the midst of surrounding darkness.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.6

Dec. 26. We had a conference at the Baptist Meeting House in Addison. It was fully attended by brethren in that town and vicinity, who have been recently turned out of the churches. Most of them have been the leading men, and the substantial pillars of those bodies. And we can assure our brethren, that the high estimation in which they have been held by their former brethren, was not without a reason; and though now lightly esteemed, and even condemned, they never shone with such brilliancy as true lights in the world, as now. Their meetings are spiritual and powerful. They look for the Lord, now at the door, and are praying for his speedy coming. We had a blessed communion season; and at the request of the Advent congregations in that vicinity, Brn. Grandy, and Buckley, were ordained to the work of the ministry, to which they believed the Holy Spirit had called them.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.7

Dec. 28, 29. We had an interesting conference at Low Hampton, N. Y. An account of that meeting, with Bro. Miller’s address, will be given by another hand. We found Bro. M. and his family well. He feels that his work is about done; though if God should open the door, and show him other work, than that of his pen, he is ready to do it. The brethren in that vicinity are holding fast. The tongue of slander is still speaking bitter things against him. And the professed ministers of the gospel, as usual are deeply involved in the matter. God will take care of these lying shepherds. He has already laid some of them on the shelf. We would refer others of them to some wholesome advice, which might be for the good of their flocks, and themselves especially. 1 Peter 5:1-4. The last story they have made up, is, that Mr. Miller has retired very rich. There is a slight mistake here which we will take the liberty to correct. He is about to “retire very rich!” His “Farm,” I find by looking over the records, is immense. Matthew 5:5,—“the earth.” Romans 4:13,—“World.” Hebrews 11:14-16,—“Heavenly Country.” But his “House,” is yet more glorious. I like to have said extravagant. It is four square, Revelation 21:16, and is very large. The stones of which it is built are very costly, Revelation 21:19, 20. The doors are extravagant. Revelation 21:21. The floors are of the most costly kind. Revelation 21:21. Finally, take it all in all, it is the most splendid affair that we have heard of in any country. It must have cost countless millions. When I was with him in Low Hampton, he was nothing but a pilgrim; but he told me he expected soon to retire to his new home, by the clemency of the principal Heir, to this splendid estate. He has a promise from him which runs thus:—Revelation 3:11, 12, “Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh, will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.” I think, therefore, there is every reason to suppose that he will soon retire “very rich.”HST January 15, 1845, page 181.8

Dec. 30. Gave two lectures at Fort Ann, in the Presbyterian Meeting House, to good congregations. Quite a large company of Adventists have been raised up in this place, of late; and they are increasing in strength, faith, and numbers. God is with them, and the elements of opposition will only advance the cause.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.9

Dec. 31. I gave the reason of our hope, at Sandy Hill, N. Y., in the Presbyterian House, which was kindly loaned us for the purpose. The audience was large and attentive; and we can but hope much good was done in the name of the Lord. Brn. Beers, and Fancher, stand up nobly for the cause, and the little band in that place are prospering, and doing good.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.10

Jan. 1. Gave a lecture at the Session House, at Troy, N. Y. We found the brethren and sisters well engaged, strong in the faith, still looking for the speedy coming of the Lord. Brother Kent is laboring with them a part of the time.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.11

Jan. 2. Gave a lecture at the Lansing Hall, at Lansingburg. We had a respectable audience, and a candid hearing. There is a small company of advent believers here, who intend to let their light shine, despite of all opposition, to have their loins girded, and to be in readiness for their Lord.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.12

Jan. 3, 4, 5. Conference at Cabbotville, Ms. Here we had a glorious gathering of the faithful in this, and from the adjacent towns On the Sabbath, during the day the Hall was filled to overflowing, mostly of believers. We had a refreshing season indeed. In the afternoon the communion was administered to a large number of those who are looking for the speedy coming of him, who has directed his church to observe this institution “until he comes.” Brother R. E. Ladd, and Rufus Baker, were set apart on this occasion, by fasting, praying, and the laying on of hands, at the request of the brethren, who believed God had called them to the work.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.13

Brother Chandler is now laboring to acceptance with the brethren at Cabbotville. They are prospering in the Lord.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.14

In the evening “certain lewd fellows of the basest sort,” came in and broke up our devotions. The leaders and their sympathisers must have numbered from one hundred to one hundred and fifty. And I must here say, that though I have been in all parts of the country, and have seen developements of the hatred of wicked men towards this cause in their vilest forms, yet for the most corrupt and abominable conduct, to the Cabbotville rioters, and rowdies sodomites as they are, I must award the palm. Their character, and spirit was duly observed before I left the house, and their object to mob me, etc., was well understood. But having been on a severe campaign of labor, day and night, worn down and well nigh sick, it behoved me, to make arrangements to quarter that night, where I might have some repose, rather than be draged about the streets and insulted by a mob of brutal men. So I took my hat and cloak, and walked through the midst of them to the door, and finding that they were pursuing me with no very benevoleut intent, I made my way to my lodgings with such accelerated steps, as made it rather inconvenient for them to keep up. They lost sight of me, but after I was safely retired at my house, after a time, they came up and surrounded the house, but failing of their object, finally retired for a season. I then took a carriage to Springfield, and was kindly entertained by our beloved brother Beckwith. On Monday the 6th, I returned to Boston much worn down, but otherwise in safety and health.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.15

We have rich materials for reflections, on the state of things as witnessed in this tour. But we have no time to write, nor room to give them now. In conclusion, we are happy to assure the friends of the blessed hope of the gospel, that there never was, so far as our personal observation has extended, a better state of things among advent believers, as to prepartion, than now. And as to any going back, the tide is setting the other way. The number, as well as the faith of advent believers is increasing. They are rising in their strength, and once more girding themselves for the re-awakening of a slumbering church and world; so that, if by any means they may compel some of those who are yet in the high ways and hedges to come into our Fathers house, “before he riseth up and shuts to the door.” J. V. Himes.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.16

Boston, Jan. 10th, 1845.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.17

“Renouncing Heresy,—A Sovereign remedy for divisions among Christians.” By Samuel Marsh. Montpelier, 1844.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.18

We have received a copy of the above pamphlet; the object of which is indicated by the title. On a perusal of its contents, we find nothing particulary objectionable; and agree with him that if all Christians would lay aside every form of heresy, divisions among them would cease. But the difficulty is to convince any of the denominations that they are in error. To do this we think will require something more than the present pamphlet.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.19

Testimony of the Waterbury Conference,

JVHe

CONCERNING THAT “FELLOW, HIMES.”

The following resolutions were passed by the Second Advent Conference at Waterbury, Vt., December 21, 1844.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.20

Whereas, there have been several attempts made, by the enemies of our blessed hope, to stop the progress of the Advent cause by throwing insults and falsehoods upon the character of our devoted brother, J. V. Himes, evidently on account of his untiring efforts, and determined zeal for the advancement of this cause; thereforeHST January 15, 1845, page 181.21

Resolved, That our beloved brother J. V Himes has our deepest sympathy, and the undoubted confidence of all those within our knowledge who truly expect the Kingdom of Heaven at hand; and what he has done, and is now doing, for its advancement, meets with our entire approbation.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.22

The above was adopted by a unanimous vote of a large assembly. We value it much, and hope to have grace to live in such a manner in time to come, as to strengthen this unsolicited expression of confidence and sympathy. Eds.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.23

SISTER FITCH—This afflicted and bereaved sister was left destitute at the recent death of her beloved husband, and our beloved and much respected brother. I wish to call the attention of the friends, (of whom she has many) to this fact, and solicit in her behalf some aid in her present need. She resides in Cleaveland, Ohio, and donations for her may be addressed to brother T. C. Severance, in that place, to brother H. Tanner, Buffalo, N.Y. or to this office. J. V. HIMES.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.24

Boston, Jan. 10, 1845.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.25

If the Lord will, Eld. T. Cole, of Lowell, will preach at Exeter, N. H. next Sabbath, 19th inst. The friends in that vicinty will please give notice accordingly.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.26

Br. David Churchill has removed from Durham N. H. to Lowell, Mass. All friends sending letters or papers to him are requested to direct them to the latter place.HST January 15, 1845, page 181.27

LOW-HAMPTON CONFERENCE

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Held Dec. 28th and 29th, 1844.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.1

Lectures were given by Bro. Himes on several important subjects. On the first day, he gave a thrilling discourse on the present position, and the duty of Adventists, showing that God had prepared us by the late movement for service and suffering in his cause, while the vision should still seem to tarry. Three points were stated and enforced. 1. Comforting the saints who are still looking for the kingdom at hand. 2. The arousing once more of the professed Christian world to the examination and preparation for the advent. 3. The full and free proclamation of salvation to the lost and perishing sinner.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.2

He was followed by brethren Jones, Buckley and Hurd, in interesting remarks on the same subjects, which were listened to with deep interest.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.3

In the evening bro. H. gave a discourse from Luke 12:43, on the blessedness of being found at our posts at work, when the Master shall come. He was followed by bro. William Miller in some very interesting remarks upon the same subject. And tho’ he thought his work nearly done, yet he should, as he ever had done, follow the leadings of Providence, and hoped to be found at his post when the King of kings should appear.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.4

On the Sabbath, bro. H. gave a lecture from Revelation 20:6. 1. On the nature, and, 2. On the time of the Millennium. He went into a very full and lengthy discussiou of the nature of the millennium fully sustaining the reign of Christ WITH his saints on the earth; while he with new, as well as the old arguments, showed that the temporal, or spiritual reign, was WITHOUT CHRIST; and therefore not the millennium of the Bible. The time, he believed, was at hand, and within the circle of a few years of disputed time; while, therefore, we are placed in a condition of daily expectation of the event, the few years in dispute fairly belong to us, on the basis of our former calculations.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.5

In the evening he gave a lecture on the restitution, from Acts 3:18-23.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.6

During the Conference, the following Address, prepared by bro. Miller at the request of the brethren, was presented by a committee, and unanimously adopted by the Conference:—HST January 15, 1845, page 182.7

ADDRESS TO ADVENT BELIEVERS

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To the dear Second Advent brethren, scattered abroad, despised, but not forsaken; poor, yet making many rich; discarded by the proud pharisees of our day, yet not discouraged; cruelly treated for the doctrine you love, and yet holding firmly to your hope of salvation at the door.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.8

We the undersigned, partakers of the same hope, children of the same faith, looking for the same deliverance, loving the same Lord, feeding on the same word, enjoying the same Spirit, suffering the same trials, subjected to like disappointments, and having the same care and fellowship for your welfare and furtherance in the truth—as ye have one for another and for us,—address you by this our epistle, in the way of consolation and advice: knowing that while we may comfort and console your hearts, we are establishing and strengthening our own. For if through many disappointments, temptations and trials, you stand fast in the faith once delivered to the saints, we rejoice in your stedfastness, are comforted together with you, and are strengthened even in the inner and the outer man. We thank God always, on your behalf, when we hear, as we already have heard, that your and our late disappointment has produced in you, and we hope in us also, a deep humiliation and close inspection of our hearts; and although we are humbled, and in some measure pained in our hearts to see and hear the scoffs and jeers of a wicked and perverse generation, yet we are in no wise terrified or cast down by the adversaries of our faith. We pray you, then, brethren, to “let patience have its perfect work,” knowing “that patience worketh experience, and experience hope, and hope maketh not ashamed.” No, we are not ashamed, for we all know why we hope. You can and will, all of you, from the least of you to the greatest, old or young, when inquired of for the reason of your hope, open your Bibles, and with meekness and fear show the inquirer why you hope in the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ. You need not in a single instance refer the inquirer to your minister to give the reason of your faith and hope. We bless God for you, my brethren, that you are all taught of the Lord. Your creed is the Scriptures; your spelling-book is the Bible; your grammar is the Word indited by the Spirit; your geography respects the promised inheritance of the holy land; your astronomy respects the bright starry crown of righteousness; your philosophy is the wisdom which cometh down from God; your bond of union is the love and fellowship of the saints; your teacher is the Holy Ghost; and your professor the Lord Jesus Christ; your recitation room is your closet; your recitations are heard in your prayers, and your songs fill up your vacations. We speak not of rewards, diplomas and degrees, for these are reserved in heaven for us, when these dusty walls of this tabernacle shall be dissolved, and we are called home into the New Heavens and New Earth, to a full fruition of that hope of which we are not ashamed. Ashamed of this hope? No. Ashamed of looking for this hope? No. Ashamed of expecting Jesus? Why, what a question is that! When we look do we not expect? The ministers of our formal churches, some of them, say “they look, but do not expect.” Yet, brethen, we have expected, time and again, and have been disappointed, but are not ashamed.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.9

We would not yield a hair’s breadth of our, expectations for all the honors of Cesar’s household, with all the popular applause of a worldly church. We exhort you, then, by all the love and fellowship of the saints, to hold fast to this hope. It is warranted by every promise of the word of God. It is secured to you by the two immutable things, the council and oath of God, in which it is impossible for God to lie. It is ratified and sealed by the death, blood, resurrection and life of Jesus Christ. You have already had a fortaste of the bliss of this hope, in the seventh month, when every moment you looked for the heavens to open, and reveal unto your anxious gaze the King of Glory. Yes, then your whole soul was ravished with a holy joy, when you expected every moment to hear the shout of the heavenly host descending from the Father’s glory, to welcome you, a weary pilgrim, to your blessed abode of eternal rest. In that eventful period, where was the world with all its vain allurements and empty show? It was gone. If our Saviour then had come as we expected, no tears would have fallen for a receding world, nor sighs have heaved our breasts for a dissolving earth, with all its pomp, its pleasures, or its praises. All this was then no more to us than is a bubble in Niagara’s cataract. God’s goodness gave us then a slight repast, like Elijah’s meat, that lasted forty days. And how can you, or we, give up a hope so full of joy, of holy love, and heavenly anticipation, as is this? The world may frown and scoff; the unbelieving church may laugh and sneer, and try to call us back. They may and will report their slanderous tales to complete our trials, vainly supposing they can wound our pride, and by this means take away our hope, and make us, like themselves, a whitened sepulchre. In all our trials, those who have obtained this blessed hope by the study of the Scriptures, have remained steadfast and immovable among the scoffs and jeers with which we have been assailed.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.10

This, to us, is a source of great joy; and it shows conclusively where our faith is founded and our hope predicated. It is upon the sure word of prophecy, and no other evidence, that we rely. This is our main support, as even our opposers will, and do admit; or, why do they in their attacks upon us, first try to show that prophecy is not to be understood, or if it is, that it is couched in such mystical and ambiguous language, that the ignorant and unlearned, (as they are pleased to call us poor Bible students, in their mighty elemency,) cannot comprehend its true import? Or why do they ridicule us, as a set of fanatical, unlearned heretics in trying to understand the sure word of prophecy, without first coming to our Bishops, or themselves to learn what the original text may mean? Why do they use these and similar arguments in order to overthrow us, if they are not sensible of the fact, that the prophecies of God’s word are our main pillar? Why do they without any discrimination, try to make our sure word of prophecy so dark, mysterious, and incomprehensible, and in many instances acknowledge their own ignorance, and then call us heretics, because we search and believe what to us looks clear, consistent, and harmonius with every part of God’s holy word? But, say they, “time has proved you in an error: unerring time has favored us, and proved what you say we failed to do.”HST January 15, 1845, page 182.11

True, gentleman, time has failed us in one or two instances, yet you cannot show why? And as you do not show any reason for the failure, permit us to give ours before we take your ground, and deny that prophecy can be understood. Every man of common intellect and information knows that we are dependent in some things on what we call human chronology, for the conclusion of our premises as it respects time. Again, they well know that our most learned and studious writers and historians disagree in the chronology of the events from which we date, some four or five years. It is true that we who have been most efficient in presenting this subject before the public, have chosen, and we think wisely too, the earliest possible time at which these momentous things might be expected to transpire, believing that it would be infinitely better for the souls of our fellow beings to come short of the time, rather than to pass over. And indeed, we do not see any good reason now, why we should not have done in this matter as we have; for if we had looked only to the very last point of disputed time, and the accomplishment had come before that, or even at that time, how could there have been a tarrying time as the Bible predicts?HST January 15, 1845, page 182.12

How could there have been a time for the trial of our faith and patience, and the purifying and sanctifying of the whole house of the true Israel? If we had not anticipated the time a little, with what propriety could the wicked scoffer, and those who professedly belong to the house of Israel say, “The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth?” and what has God said we shall answer this rebellious house of Israel with? With another specified time? No. How then shall we ever silence their caviling and scoffing, if we can fix no future time? We answer, that is not our work to do. God has promised to do that work. Hark! and hear what the Lord saith. “I will make this proverb to cease, and they shall no more use it as a proverb in Israel.” God will perform his engagements, in his own time and manner. We have only to believe, and be patient. But we are taunted with “Oh, you have prolonged your vision again and again; and you have failed every time; now wont you give it up, and come back to us? you are not honest if you will not.” When they thus call us dishonest, have we nothing we can say? If we altogether hold our peace, they will be wise in their own conceits, and go and report that they have shut up our mouths, so that we could not say a word for ourselves; and thus the cause would be injured. But never fear, brethren; God has told you what to say; do as he bids you, and he will take care of the consequences. God says, “but say unto them, the days are at hand, and the effect of every vision.”—Ezekiel 12:21-25. So we see, God has been in this thing; He well knew into what a straitened place we should be brought; He knew what the rebelious house of Israel would say, and he has given us the best weapon of defence.HST January 15, 1845, page 182.13

The word of God has a sufficiency of all armor, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished to every good work. We therefore hope that none of us will try to change the chronology of the visions; for they must all fail in all our eyes; and if any vision should be so construed as to fix on another definite time in the future, we cannot conceive how the Scripture would be fulfilled, that, “every vision faileth.” Let us then be satisfied in patiently waiting for God’s time. But let us be careful that we do not lay off our armor, cease our watching, go to sleep at our post, or be caught in a snare, when the Son of man shall come. It is better to be ready before the time, and wait a while, than not to be ready when the time shall come, and be lost. We exhort you then with the Lord’s ad vice, “be like men waiting for their Lord, that when he cometh they may open to him immediately.”HST January 15, 1845, page 182.14

Again, we exhort you, brethren, that every one may edify, and be edified, that ye forsake not the assembling of yourselves together, as often as your situation and circumstances shall permit; that we may comfort and console each other in our trials, be established ourselves in the present truth, and our minds be stirred up to remember that our Judge is now standing at the door. How can we who have taken so great delight in the study of the blessed Bible, again return to the beggarly elements of vain philosophy, and tradition of the fathers? We cannot sit under preaching where the Bible is discarded from the pulpit, except as a text book, and the plainest passages of Scripture are mysticised and explained away, our hope in the resurrection of the body taken from us, and the kingdom of heaven preached as in this state of division, persecution & death, & the promise of being caught up in the air ridiculed by the oft repeated slang of ascension robes. These things we cannot fellowship, we will not hear them repeated. We therefore advise you, dear brethren, to hold meetings for prayer, reading of the Scriptures, exhortation, and singing, if you may not be able to obtain a lecturer or preacher. And may the Spirit of God bless you with his presence, and preserve you blameless unto his coming.HST January 15, 1845, page 183.1

Again we exhort you, brethren, to be faithful in business. Let every one labor with his hands, in the several callings in which God has placed us, that none of us may be a burden to any, and that we may all of us have wherewith to communicate and do good, for it is more blessed to give than to receive; and that we may none of us give any occasion to our enemies to reproach us with being busy bodies in other men’s matters, or as not providing for our own house. In thus doing we may put to silence the reproaches of those who are seeking every occasion to destroy the doctrine that we rejoice to believe. We may, while we are engaged in our several occupations, be fervent in spirit serving the Lord. If we could not, it would be evidence that we were not engaged in a proper calling; or, that our hearts were not right with God. Paul, the great apostle to the Gentiles, labored with his hands, that he might not be chargeable to the saints; and what was duty then, will be duty as long as the gospel remains to be preached. And we thank God we have never preached any other doctrine, you yourselves being our judges.HST January 15, 1845, page 183.2

We also beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye be not led about by every spirit; but try the spirits. For every spirit is not of God; and it is now evident that there are many spirits in the earth,—even the three unclean spirits which are working miracles, and deceiving not only kings, but the whole earth. It therefore becomes us to be very cautious by what spirit we are led. The spirit of error will lead us from the truth; and the Spirit of God will lead us into truth. But say you, a man may be in an error, and think he has the truth. What then? We answer, the Spirit and word agree. If a man judges himself by the word of God, and finds a perfect harmony through the whole word, then we must believe we have the truth; but if he finds the spirit by which he is led does not harmonize with the whole tenor of God’s law, or book, then let us walk carefully, lest we be caught in the snare of the devil, and fall from our own steadfastness; and so be deceived, and lose the crown for which we are running. Let us follow the teachings of the apostle Paul to Titus 2:12, “that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” or as Peter tells us in his 2 Epistle. 3:11, “Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness.” In both cases the context teaches us to look for the coming of the day of God; or which is the same thing, “the glorious appearing of the great God, and our Savior Jesus Christ.” There are a few individuals among us who are teaching that Christ has come, and that we were not mistaken in the time, but only in the manner of his coming. Let us be careful, lest we cease from our watchfulness, and so that day come upon us unawares. Remember that the same Jesus will come in like manner as they saw him ascend; and every eye shall see him, and we shall see him as he is, and be like him, when that day shall come for which we look; and then “the heavens being on fire, shall be dissolved, and the elements melt with fervent heat.” If the one can be spiritualized away, all the rest, must of course be spiritualized in like manner; and it would make the whole description of the judgment but a jumble of nonsense. We hope but few will be carried away by such vain trifling with the Bible. If God does not mean what he says, to whom shall we go for instruction? Who has been his counsellor and who has sat in the council chamber of the Almighty? Man is but grass, and the flower thereof fadeth. He is but of yesterday, and his life but a breath. “Cursed is the man who trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.” Hold on then, brethren, to the Sure Word of Prophecy, for you will reap soon the fruits of your faith, if you faint not.HST January 15, 1845, page 183.3

The Time

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Many of you are anxious to know the time; and in this you are not alone or singular. Holy angels from heaven have enquired, “how long shall be the vision?” and “how long to the end of these wonders?” The souls of the martyred saints have enquired, “How long, O Lord, Holy and True, dost thou judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth?” Saints on earth have enquired. Says David, Psalm 74:10, “O God, how long shall the adversary reproach?” and again, Psalm 94:2, 3, “Lift up thyself thou Judge of the earth, render a reward to the proud. Lord how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked triumph?” Isaiah says, 6:11, “Then said I, Lord how long?” and “If you will enquire, enquire ye.” Says Peter, “The prophets have enquired and searched diligently, searching what, and what manner of time.” And if holy angels, departed saints, and prophets, and apostles may enquire, “how long” you need not for thus enquiring be afraid of incurring any displeasure from anything divine, excepting our reverend divines of this corrupt age: and “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees.” Yes, brethren, you may enquire, and the more you search to know the time, if God’s word is your only rule, the better you will be beloved of God, and all holy beings. You will undoubtedly wish to know if we have found any additional light on this momentous and interesting subject? We answer, none definitely, as it respects the future. We believe that our understanding of prophetic time in the word of God, is correct; we see no reason to alter the manner of our reckoning. The discrepancy, we believe, is in the human part of the chronology, and as there are four or five years in dispute among our best chronological writers, which cannot be satisfactorily settled, we feel that we have a good right to this disputed period; and candid and reasonable men will all allow this to be right. Therefore we must patiently wait the time in dispute, before we can honestly confess we are wrong in time. We would advise and recommend that none be too impatient; “let patience have its perfect work.” “For you have need of patience, that after ye have done the will of God, ye may receive the promise; for yet, (after ye have done the will of God,) a little while, and he that shall come, will come, and will not tarry.” Then have we done the will of God in proclaiming the year 1843? We could have done no better with the light we then had. The seventh month also was for the purpose of filling up those prophecies, which could not be accomplished while we had a future time in view. For instance, how could our faith and patience be fairly tested, while we had definite time to hold on to? A man might believe in our time, of ‘43 and the seventh month, and pin his faith on the arguments of men, and yet have no real faith in God. As long as we can lean on man for any support, we are always prone to do it. In all the history of the past, when God has wrought deliverance for his people, he has brought them where no human wisdom, strength, or foresight could help; and where nothing but faith and patience could sustain. Then God has wrought deliverance, and “his own arm has brought down salvation” for us. And in this last trial, and the greatest deliverance of all, will he not deliver in his own way? It therefore becomes us to stand fast in faith. We know that when ‘43 passed, many went back and walked no more with us. Their faith was tested. So likewise it was in the seventh month: the faith of many then failed. And so will it be, and so must it be, until the sanctuary is cleansed. For, Malachi 3:17, “In the day when the Lord of Host makes up his jewels, then shall ye return and discern between the righteous and the wicked,’ etc. Why?” For the day cometh that shall burn as an oven.” It had not come when the test was made. No. Revelation 22:11, “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he that is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” And what shall follow? “And behold I come quickly.” Quickly, after what? Any one may see it is quickly after the test is made, which tries the real characters of men. And what can be a greater test, than to believe God, when to all calculation which man has made or can make, the word of God has failed? Yet believe God. O foolishness, says the Greek, the Infidel, and Pharisee. Yet it is truth; God tried Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel, and the three worthies with such a test, and they were not ashamed to own their faith to, or before a scoffing multitude, and persecuting kings. So we must be tested, and if the two trials we have passed are not sufficient, the next will be blood. Preserve us Lord from falling from our faith and from our blessed hope. And come Lord Jesus, Oh! come quickly. Yours in the patient waiting.HST January 15, 1845, page 183.4

WM. MILLER, Low Hampton.N.Y.
E. MARTIN, Benson, Vt.
A. HURD, Weybridge,”
A. W. SMITH, Castleton,”
B. F. GILBERT, Fairhaven,”
R. FIELD, Westhaven,”
R. TRACEY, Burlington,”
Committee.HST January 15, 1845, page 183.5

The Reaping Time.—Revelation 14:15, 16

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In tracing the history of the Advent cause, we are brought down to the last angel, that cries before the end of the world. How does that appear? says one, how do you know that the voice that is being echoed through the land, is the last that will be heard before the Lord’s coming and the end of the world? The Lord himself answers the question for us, by telling us what time of probation the harvest occupies. Matthew 13:39, the harvest is the end of the world.HST January 15, 1845, page 183.6

Jesus may now be sitting on the white cloud, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. The angel which came out of the temple, is to cry with a loud voice to him that sitteth on the cloud “thrust in thy sickle and reap, for the time [or hour] is come for thee to reap, for the harvest of the earth is ripe [or dried.”] It is very natural to ask what does this angel represent? Answer all those who in spirit join in the cry under consideration, just as a beast is made to stand for a kingdom, a mountain for a government in the symbolical prophecies. Mark the manner of crying with a loud voice, as we read in the case of the importunate widow, day and night. A loud and a constant cry is then to go up to him that sitteth on the cloud to “thrust in his sickle and reap.” But does Jesus reap with his own hand? Certainly not, for we read in the before quoted passage in Matthew 13. the reapers are the angels. In this prayer, thrust in thy sickle and reap, we pray the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven to send his angels with a great sound of the trumpet, that they may gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. We pray that “the dead in Christ may rise first.” Our sympathies go out for the “creation” that groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. We put the Lord Jehovah Jesus in remembrance of his promise long ago made to Abraham, and confirmed to Isaac and Jacob, and all the “innumerable multitude” of the faithful, that he would bring his people into the land of Israel. Now in this dispensation of the fulness of times, we pray the Lord to gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth.” We pray that Jesus may appear, and all his children be made like him. We pray his prayer, for he prayed, “Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am: that they may behold my glory.” With Ezekiel, we go down into the Valley of Vision;—the graves are uncovered and we move the dust off the faithful dead. We seem to hear them cry in their desolateness, “Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts.” We pray, “come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live,” and we plead the faithful promise made by the Lord God, “Behold, O my people, I will open your graves and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel.” Yes, we pray that the dead in Christ may rise first; then, we which are alive and remain, may be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air. All this is implied in the cry of God’s people, “Thrust in thy sickle and reap.”HST January 15, 1845, page 183.7

But the reason is given why the Lord should do this, “for the time has come for thee to reap: for the harvest of the earth is ripe.” Mark the pleading, earnest manner of the cry, Reap, oh Lord, because it is time for thee to reap, the set time to favor Zion has come. “For the harvest of the earth is ripe.”HST January 15, 1845, page 184.1

The time of the harvest is the end of the world, it is a harvest of wheat to be gathered into the garner of the Lord, and the ripe and dried state of the grain is given as a reason why the great Reaper should thrust in his sickle and reap. God’s people are represented as being in a prepared, “ready” state to greet his coming, and go up to meet him. Is it so now? There are sad tokens indicating a different state of things, but the way to remedy that which is lacking, and “strengthen the things that remain,” is to ask and receive the spirit of grace and supplication appropriate to this time. We must not stop believing, for “now the just shall live by faith.”HST January 15, 1845, page 184.2

“The time has come for thee to reap; “oh how much is implied in that! The “heavens” were to receive Jesus until the times of restitution of all things spoken of by all the holy prophets since the world began; and now when these times are being ushered in, when the time has come to reap, he comes on a white cloud with his sickle.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.3

But what is the effect of this earnest prayer of the saints to the coming Savior! Why he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth, and the earth was reaped. “Faithful is he that hath promised, who also will do it.” The Lord hath promised to make the desolate land like the garden of Eden, when he is inquired of by the house of Israel to do it for them.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.4

What a glorious consideration it is that we who remain unto his coming of the Lord, are privileged with rendering up of the groaning prayer which has not ceased to be uttered since the fall! We pray the prayer of all those who died in the faith, and the answer is to be given, by our being made perfect together in recovering the promises.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.5

This last cry is a test, such as we have never had before The way of life has now grown so narrow that not one hypocrite can walk there—not one can pray in the spirit for Jesus to come, who does not love his appearing. Who then will reject this message? Evidently those who have not love enough in their hearts to receive it. Who but the pure in heart that will see God and be made like him, will pray, thrust in thy sickle? None verily. May God inspire each of his waiting children with this prayer, which has been so long groaned out by the suffering creation under the curse, and then speedily Jesus will come and reap. E C. C. Worcester, Dec. 27th, 1844.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.6

On Time

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The date of the 2300 days or years, Daniel 9:25.—“Know therefore and understand.” Understand what? The appointed time previously given in answer to the question, How long the vision commences, its date from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.7

Again I would have you understand, that the 70 weeks just spoken of, are a part of the 2300 days, and are to be fulfilled upon thy people (the Jews,) and reach to the end of the Jewish Economy.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.8

I would have you understand also, that the 7 weeks and 62 weeks or 69 weeks, now under consideration, commence at the same point and reach down to the Prince Messiah, (i. e.) to the time or year that he shall commence his public ministry, Mark 14:15. We have then two objects embraced in the commencement from which we are to date the 2300 days or years.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.9

1st. The restoration of the Jews.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.10

Their restoration to what?HST January 15, 1845, page 184.11

1st. Their native land, or Palestine. Ezekiel 1:13.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.12

2nd. To restore them to their civil rights and privileges, by setting magistrates and judges over them as at the first. Ezekiel 1:25. Deuteronomy 16:18, 19.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.13

3rd. To restore the statutes and judgments. Ezekiel 36:27. Nehemiah 8th chapter.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.14

4th. To separate them from their heathen abominations, or their Gentile wives and children. Ezekiel 9:1-4. Nehemiah 9:1-3. Nehemiah 10:28-31. 1 Esd. ix. 5.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.15

We have here one part of the commandment accomplished.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.16

How much time was employed in accomplishing this part of the commandment? Just one year to a day, from the time they left Chaldea, till it was completed. See Ezekiel 7:9. 8:35. 10:9-11-17. 1 Esd. ix. 16—17, which bring us down to the 1st day of the 1st Month, B. C. 456, the second part of the command or data of the 2300 days, when they are prepared to build.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.17

I consider the command under consideration in respect to its data parallel with that of Justinian, which is said to have gone forth in A. D. 533, but which did not fully go into effect until 538. So I think the commandment to restore, would carry us into B. C. 456 as the latest data for the 2300 days or years; but wisdom would dictate that the earliest period of their determination should be proclaimed for the benefit of the world?HST January 15, 1845, page 184.18

C. Bywater.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.19

Signs of the Times

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From an article in the London (Episcopal) Record we copy the following:HST January 15, 1845, page 184.20

“The events of the times do indeed seem to call as if with providential voice, for special effort and prayer and watchfulness; “There is,” it has been remarked, “an undefinable impression abroad upon all spirits, of a coming crisis, and a better day;” a circumstance which seems in a peculiar manner to have struck the powerful mind of the late lamented Dr. Arnold when he remarked that, “Modern history appears to bear marks of the fulness of time, as if there would be no future history beyond it.”HST January 15, 1845, page 184.21

Thus, for instance, if we look at Rome; Rome not to be converted, revives, as if with dying energy, and begins to dictate laws, and multiply her hostile positions, only to be destroyed by the brightness of another advent. “Her mightiest paroxysm of seemingly recruiting strength will probably be that which immediately precedes her last and dying agonies.”HST January 15, 1845, page 184.22

If we contemplate the nations: “The nations are angry; “and prepared for war upon a scale of grandeur hitherto unknown; the hearts of men begin to fail them, when they anticipate the results of the next general, and probably conclusive outbreak. If we consider the Jew, a novel phenomenon awaits us there; his pilgrimage of sorrow must be nearly complete. The Jew is no longer recumbent at the foot of the Gentile; but the Gentile begins to lift up the drooping head of the Jew. If we look to the East: the East, is full of movement and disruption; “the crescent is going down before the cross; and the Muezzin’s last cry is ringing on the gale.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.23

Thus all things seem to travel onward to a general crisis, and a new era. “How important, then, that we should be prepared as a nation, as a church, and as individuals, to meet the coming crisis; “and especially that those who “keep the word of God and the testimony of Jesus “should not slack their hands in prayer, until “the indignation be accomplished,” and the final victory and glory of the Church be complete.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.24

Safety in Duty—If we are in the path of duty, and if our help and hope is in the name of the Lord, we may evidently expect that he will uphold us, however faint and enfeebled we may seem to be to ourselves and others.—Newton.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.25

Obituary

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Died, of consumption, at Gralton, Vt., Dec. 14, sister LOUISA P. GIBSON, daughter of John Gibson, Esq. aged 23. She was an only daughter, and her accomplishments, as a scholar and teacher, united with an amiable disposition, rendered her universally beloved She had been a devoted Christian for six years, and for upwards of two years had been a firm believer in the advent of our Lord at hand. While at school, five years since, she with three others used to hold prayer meetings daily, and engaged to hold a mutual correspondence through life; the others have all fallen a prey to death, and now her sun has set at noon, but yet without a cloud, and soon to rise in eternal splendor.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.26

SECOND ADVENT CONFERENCE

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The Advent brethren will hold a Conference, if time continue, at the Baptist meeting house in Orwell, about three miles north east of Orwell Village, to commence on Friday, the 7th of Feb. and hold over the Lord’s day. Bro. Miller is expected to be present, and other lecturers, and the brethren generally are invited to attend.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.27

Committee.—Harrison Phelps, Jonathan Murray of Orwell, Jonathon Mason, E Martin of Benson, David Bosworth of Hampton, Dr. A. G. W. Smith of Castleton.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.28

Shorham, Vt., January 8th, 1845.

Letters and Receipts to Jan. 11th

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A Berryman by pm $1 pd to 218 in v 9; Jno L Paine $1 pd to end v 8; E Peck by pm $1 pd to 158 in v 7; R Clark by pm $2 pd to end v 6; Mary S Withington by pm $1 pd to 208 in v 9; W Weeks by pm $1 pd to end v 8; J Scut by pm $1 pd to 218 in v 9; E Cooley by pm $1 pd to 209 in v 9; A Church by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Mrs M Beckley by pm $1 pd to end v 9; John Davis $1 pd to end v 3; P Giddings $1 pd to end v 9; J & W Ordway $1 pd to end v 8; A S Ayers 50c pd to 205 in v 9; W M Hall $1 pd to end v 8; H Munger $1 pd to 177 in Sept; S Currier $1 pd to end v 7; A Fuller $1 pd to 218 in v 9; B Freeborn $1 pd to 218 in v 9; J Decker $1 pd to 218 in v 9; Lucy A Williums $1 pd to 218 in v 9; W Briggs $1 pd to end v 7; P Burnop $1 pd to end v 9; C Burnop $1 pd to end v 9; P Bromley $2 pd to end v 10; E H Glidden $2 pd to 151 in v 7; Capt W Tyler by pm $1 pd to 200 in v 9; Chas Barnes by pm $1 pd to end v 8; L Taylor $1 pd to 218 in v 9; Miss H Wheeler by pm $1 pd to 191 in v 8; M Reynold by pm $1 pm to end v 8; W Cowdry by pm $1 pd to 208 in v 9; R Slayton by pm $1 pd to 120 in v 5; L Slayton by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Thos Goodwin $1 pd to end v 9; W Moore $1 pd to 236 in v 10; A Pease by pm $1 pd to 218 in v 9; S Davis by pm $1 pd to end v 8; A C Spaulding by pm $1 pd to end v 8; A Snell $1 pd to middle v 8; S Treat by pm $1 pd to 218 in v 9; J W Brittan by pm $1 pd to middle v 9; T E Morrill by pm $2 pd to end v 5; Joseph Clark by pm $2 pd to end v 9; W P Stratton by pm 25c pd to 198 in v 9; D Wiggins $3 pd to end v 8; L Whitten by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Elder T Smith by pm $1 pd to end v 8; A Harris by pm $2 pd to end v 9; M Aldrich by pm $2 pd to end v 9; N Withingston by pm $2 pd to 244 in v 10; E Sawtell by pm $2 pd to end v 7; W Jackson by pm $1 pd to 217 in v 9; E Holmes by pm $1 pd to end v 8; J C Forbush by pm $1 pd to end v 8; W Flanders by pm $1 pd to end v 8; M J Tuck by pm $1 pd to end v 8; D Dustin by pm $1 pd to 218 in v 9; Asa Winch by pm $1 pd to 202 in v 9 your paper is mailed regularly; G Godfrey by pm $1 pd to 217 in v 9; A S Doolittle by pm $1 pd to 218 in v 9; R Stubbs $1 pd to end v 8; Rev G C Baker by pm 50c pd to 192 in v 8; Mrs S Hammond by pm 50c pd to 205 in v 9; J A Tourtlelott $1 pd to 209 in v 9; B Steere $1 pd to 218 in v 9; P Wilcox $1 pd to 208 in v 9; A H Tourtlelott $1 pd to end v 8; D C Tourtlelott $1 pd to 212 in v 9; J H Fuller $1 pd to end v 8; J Carliss by pm $1 pd to end v 9; W Brittenham by pm $1 pd to end v 7; S Stearns $3 pd to end v 8; M Clark by pm $2 pd to end v 9; Geo S Searl by pm $2 pd to end v 7: Capt J A McClure by pm $1 pd to 213 in v 9.HST January 15, 1845, page 184.29

pm New Bedford Ms; L C Chandler; Wm Chapin; H Child $1; J Weston; H Heath; pm Peru Me; pm Ballston N Y; N Blake; Sarah A Sanderson; E J Smith; J S Richards; Wm S Miller; Luther Caldwell $5; pm Marshfield Vt; pm Shebyville Ky; pm South Scituate R I; pm E Machias Me; Nancy E Canton; S C Chandler; F Gould; J Weston; E Noyes; pm Waterbury Vt; pm Patucket R I: Jenksville Ms; A Clapp; Elder Thomas Smith; pm Palmyra Me; Anthony Pierce $5; pm Otisfield Me: F B Hahn; pm Gilford N H; D R Mansfield and 14 others; E L H Chamberlain, pleaee look at list of receipts in Herald Dec 18th; S W Ruggles; A Farley $2HST January 15, 1845, page 184.30

Notice—Will brethren Abijah Hurd and J Adrian furnish us with their Post Office address?HST January 15, 1845, page 184.31