The Watchtower, January 1, 1882
VOL. III. PITTSBURGH, PA., JANUARY, AND FEBRUARY, 1882. NOS. 7 AND 8.
WITH TABERNACLE SUPPLEMENT.
ZION'S
Watch Tower
AND
HERALD OF CHRIST'S PRESENCE.
PUBLISHED MONTHLY. 101 Fifth Ave., PITTSBURGH, PA.
C. T. RUSSELL, Editor and Publisher.
The Editor recognizes a responsibility to the Master, relative to what shall appear in these columns, which he can not and does not cast aside; yet he should not be understood as endorsing every expression of correspondents, or of articles selected from other periodicals.
TERMS OF SUBSCRIPTION.
TERMS:--Fifty cents a year, postage prepaid. You may send paper-money or three cent stamps to the amount of two dollars by mail at our risk. Larger amounts by Check, P.O. Money Order or Registered Letter, payable to C. T. RUSSELL.
FOREIGN TERMS.
Foreign Postage being higher, our terms to foreign subscribers will be 65 cents a year. Please send us no foreign money or postage stamps as we can make no use of them. Remittances may be made by Postal Money Orders.
N.B.--This paper will be sent free to any of the Lord's poor who will send a card yearly requesting it.
PITTSBURGH CHURCH MEETINGS.
Service held in "Curry Institute Hall," corner Penn avenue and Sixth street, Pittsburgh, at 3:00 o'clock P.M., every Sunday. Every Wednesday evening, at No. 80 Cedar avenue, Allegheny, at 7:30 o'clock P.M. All are cordially invited.
VIEW FROM THE TOWER.
THE thousands of letters which still continue to come in from all parts, have been greatly increased within the last three weeks, by letters and cards, inquiring about the January number.
We regret the delay of this number, but it was unavoidable. Part of the paper on which the supplement is printed was detained by the railroad blockade: We had a part of it and a part of THE WATCH TOWER printed and could not finish either; nor could we find a paper to match closely enough to substitute. Now that it has come, we hope it will be satisfactory to you all. The supplement is larger than we had at first expected to make it.
The work in general progresses; the interest of old and new readers seems to increase daily. Two new preachers are preparing themselves for the field, Bros. Boyer and Leigh, both are here at present, and with two others are endeavoring to obtain and systematize the Bible teachings, so they can the better present them to others.
Oh that more could realize what a privilege it is, to preach the "glad tidings." The pay is extraordinarily large, but will scarcely allure any but the wholly consecrated. It is as follows, paid regularly--viz.: Trials of faith, of patience, of perseverance, of privations, of forbearance, of forgiveness, of self-sacrifice; these are also sure--plain bread and water, sometimes more. You shall, in all, have a hundred fold more of houses, lands, brothers, sisters, etc., than you gave up to enter the service; and (here comes the grand and glorious part of our wages) in the world (age) to come, eternal life and glory.
Many who receive "calls" for their services at from $2,000 to $10,000 would consider the above a very poor call indeed. But it is a poor call, only to those who look at the dollars which are seen, and not at the glory which is unseen. Ours, is the same "call" that Jesus had to the ministry however--He, (not for ease, comfort, wealth, respectability or honor,) but for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross and despised the shame. It was our call that Peter, Paul, and others received, and they said it was a "High calling," a "Heavenly calling." Let us, like all of these, esteem our calling to suffer for a while, and to be glorified after (`1 Peter 5:10`) a great privilege; and as we draw our wages of shame and reproach daily, let us rejoice that we are accounted worthy to suffer the reproaches for Christ and the words of his testimony, and esteem these greater riches than all earthly things; for while so doing "the spirit of glory and of God resteth on you." (`1 Peter 4:14`.)
Now some are so situated with families dependent on them, that they cannot see their way clear to go forth in the mission work of teaching these glad tidings; and quite a number have expressed regrets, thereat. To such we would say, one talent or one opportunity used to the best of your ability, will as thoroughly demonstrate the degree of your sacrifice as ten could; and we know it to be one of the Lord's ways, to increase the talent and opportunity as we make use of it. Let us see how one talent of ability could be used. You could study and plan the more thoroughly, how these subjects could best be presented privately to your christian neighbors and friends. If you have many talents of ability and only one of opportunity, then try to use it, study how you may say much in few words, pointedly. Deprive yourself of some of the time you spend otherwise, and have a meeting in your room for Bible study on Sunday, and on a week evening. Or call on any fruit bearing consecrated christians you may know of; hand such a tract with a few brief expressions relative to your own view concerning it. Always have three or four charges of such ammunition in your pocket. If you attend any meeting, be sure you make it count for TRUTH if there are any who seem to have "an ear to hear."
But let us remember always, that it is their fear of God which is injuring them, (`Isa. 29:13`) and hinders their coming into the sunshine of his love. We remember that we, (as all, "of this way") first got to see a little of the Love of God, and then we found the entire plan to be "just like him"--Love. "The love of Christ constraineth us." (`2 Cor. 5:14`.)
Love is the lever which will move men's hearts in the Millennial Age, when they will learn of God's love as exhibited in the selection of the "little flock" to bless them; and the love of the "head and body of Christ," whom they persecuted and who suffered patiently, etc.,--yes, that will move where fear will not.
And it is this same mighty lever that must now be used by us, to move all who are running the heavenly race to press with vigor on, and so run as to obtain the prize of our high calling. Then let all be actively engaged in the service-- preaching the TRUTH by act and word--"doing with our might what our hands find to do"--that "so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord." (`2 Pet. 1:11`.) --Thus we may have it true of us-- He or "she hath done WHAT she could," the Lord expects no more: but how few, are doing all they could.
Let us not forget that while we may be deeply interested in doing good to the world, in such ways as preaching temperance, etc., yet that is not our mission now. The injunction is always "Preach the Word;" "Feed the flock;" "Feed my sheep;" "Feed my lambs." Are you a partaker of the Spirit of the Anointed one? If so, remember it was not designed to qualify you for any work except preaching--in some sense, in action or word; as we read: The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me (head and body) because he hath anointed me to preach the glad tidings to the meek, etc. (`Isa. 61:1`.)
The fact that what is preached generally is very bad tidings of great misery to more than nine-tenths of the race, makes it the more necessary for those of us who have some knowledge of the "good news" to let it be known; that all hearts may bow before our God and worship, and in truth adore.
Among the many refreshing letters received, we wish you to enjoy with us, the spirit of the following:
AUSTINTOWN, O., Jan. 16, 1882.
DEAR BRO:--The publication entitled, "Food for Thinking Christians," was duly received a few weeks ago, and I have carefully distributed the greater portion of them among such as would appreciate such teachings; and they all speak volumes of praise. It is indeed food for Christians --rich food. Would to God we could only have the whole world read and fully understand. May God bless the work, and may the blessed seed sown sink deep in each and every heart, and bear much fruit to the honor and glory of God.
Please send me a few copies of the Tabernacle and its Teachings, and much oblige. Yours, etc.,
MIXERVILL, INDIANA, Jan. 14, 1882.
"ZION'S WATCH TOWER"--My dear good friends:--Your kind favor, "Food for Thinking Christians," reached me in due time. To say that it is an exceeding welcome gift but feebly expresses my appreciation and gratitude. I have learned what I never knew before, and it has brought to me such a flood of light that I am amazed at the grandeur of the scheme and plan of redemption. To allow the phrase, I have literally devoured it, and my soul is ravished with the indescribable excellency and magnitude of God's plan of salvation. Oh, how dull and blunted does now appear the common method of Christian instruction. Who can read these things and longer doubt and waver about the truth, beauty, and inspiration of the Bible, or the manner in which its glorious truths should be inculcated and demonstrated. I trust and believe that the great Author of the Word will prosper and bless you abundantly. Whatever else you have of like nature for grateful hearts, I trust you will favor your present correspondent with. At present I am very poor, but have better prospects before me, and when they arrive I will not forget "Zion's Watch Tower." Yours truly,
__________, M.D.
P.S.--Please send me some "Food" for five friends, and let me know whether a preacher could come here. In truth and gratitude,
__________, KANSAS, Dec., 10, 1881.
DEAR BROTHER RUSSELL:--I have derived great comfort from the December number of "Watch Tower." What a substantial meal of "strong meat." I have read it nearly all twice over; some of it three and four times. I derived especial comfort from the article entitled, "The Blessed dying." I have always dreaded dying, but if its conclusions are correct (and it at once impressed me so), I think I want to die--anything to be with Christ. The "Creative Week," by W. I. Mann, I thought was especially strong in its conclusions and deductions; shall read it again and study it.
Now, dear brother, perhaps it would be as well to introduce myself. I am a preaching member of the Minnesota Conference of Christian Adventists. I have long been leaning toward the age-to-come views, much as one
would grope in the dark--seeing much truth in it; but with the light I had, could not make all points harmonize. It remained for your September number of "Watch Tower" to supply the missing link. I am thankful to God for it. I received it (humanly speaking) by the merest accident, but I believe it was sent of God. Now, dear brother, I would like a few copies of "Food for Thinking Christians." I will treat and place each one as though it were pure gold. I want to send one to my brother, a minister, and to others. I am anxious to do all I can. Am very poor, but if God blesses will contribute to your Tract fund. Yours in hope. __________.
ONTARIO.
DEAR BROTHER:--The books and paper I have received safely, for which accept my sincere thanks. I have received a great deal of profit from the reading of them. God's plan of salvation as seen by the aid of the "true light" (as I firmly believe), is sublime beyond anything of which I have had conception. My heart is overflowing with thankfulness to our Father and Saviour that I have been thought worthy to receive the "good news." I feel as though my experiences were something like Paul's--as one born out of due time. My wife also believes, but does not seem to be able to forget the old teachings so readily as myself. Do you know of any other members of Christ in this neighborhood?
Please put my name on your list of subscribers for the "Watch Tower." Enclosed find one dollar to pay for above and postage on books, etc. 25 cents of the above was the price of a theatre ticket; I should have spent it for that before I received the light; now when I am tempted I shall send the money to you to use in the good cause. Will you kindly advise me in regard to severing my connection with the church of which I am a member. I feel as though I should not attend, because it would be consenting to their teaching, which I do not now believe. I have not really believed it for a long time, but I knew no better way. Now, thank God, it is different. I remain yours in the hope of eternal life. __________.
MEHERRIN DEPOT, VA.,
Dec. 21st, 1881.
DEAR BROTHER:--I am filled with thanks and praise to our heavenly Father for the precious truths received through your paper. I have spent much time in studying the subject of baptism; and just as I came out with my convictions on the subject, the "Watch Tower" came with an article ("Importance of Baptism") expressing my views better than I could. O, how gratifying to see what the real baptism is! Now we can see that "he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." But, my dear brother, I would like you to say a little more on one point, viz: If Jesus went into that eternal death of the human for us, why should we be baptized into and go through it for ourselves? __________.
[Answers to your question have been given in former numbers; but a very clear answer will be found in the reading of this month's supplement --"The Tabernacle" tract. We do not die for ourselves; but have fellowship with our Head in the atonement sacrifices for the world. We "fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ." `Col. 1:24`. --EDITOR.]
EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND, To the Editor "Zion's Watch Tower."
DEAR SIR:--I have perused your little book "Food for Thinking Christians," with very great interest, and also with profit. I am a missionary and divinity student in the last session of my course. I am very desirous of preaching on these glorious themes so well handled in your little volume; and will ever be much indebted to you, if you will supply me with some more copies, say 40. I shall certainly distribute them with judicious care, and sincerely trust they will be much blessed to those who read them. I will also be glad to receive some copies of the "Tabernacle and its Teachings."
I remain, my dear sir, ever yours, most sincerely,
TRUTH SIFTING IN THE TOWER.
We would like every interested reader to feel that he has an interest in the WATCH TOWER, and that it is our paper: a paper belonging to the Lord and hence to all his children. It is, and we hope will always be conducted, with an eye single to God's glory and hence to the blessing of his children. Like the Bible, it will not discuss questions, but will state what is believed to be truth and nothing else; accepting--The harmony of God's Word--as the definition of truth. No compromising with error to double the circulation; no withholding of truth lest some should be offended. No, the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth is our motto.
But who shall judge what is truth, and how? This, to every conscientious editor, becomes an important question, but in our own case it is doubly so, because the subjects treated in our columns are, many of them, "new" (`Matt. 13:52`) and "strong meat." We believe our readers are more effectually armed against error, by being instructed in the harmony of God's Word, than by having the columns of the W.T. devoted to the dissecting of all the various forms of error. Let the sunlight in, and the darkness will flee away. And with the plan of God clearly before the mind, the deformity of error is easily discoverable. The Bible, then, is our only standard, by which to test the truth or falsity of any subject.
We will inform our readers what has been our method of sifting truth, that they may know of our carefulness in trying to separate truth from error.
The editor seeks to test his own articles by the Word of God, but every article which appears in the paper, has the special criticism of some one or more of those who are walking in the light. If it be a new point of interpretation, it must have the assent of at least two of those best posted and most conversant with the Scriptures before it shall appear. If not seen by these intelligent and conscientious persons to be truth, it will lie over until such time as it shall be seen either to be truth and published, or error and destroyed.
This rule which we apply to our own writings, we apply to others also, and as a consequence, very many articles are written for our paper which are never seen in it. This stringent rule is not liked by some, who consider it a reflection against their ability, thus proving that their human nature is not yet crucified,--the dead have no reputation to sustain or wound. But to those who are intent only on getting and spreading truth, this rule is generally very agreeable.
We know of no other way to do, and the Lord has seemed to bless this method, for he has fed us richly; and though we stand ready to contradict the statements of any issue when shown to be erroneous, and would feel it both a duty and a privilege to do so, yet to the praise of our Lord's leading the course and teachings of the W.T. for the past three years have been connected, progressive and harmonious. And furthermore, those who are teachers of these things, never saw truth with so clear a vision as to-day, and never were so harmonious in sentiment.
Be not offended then, if your article, should not appear. It is treated with the same loving consideration as all other articles. One dear brother to whom we returned an article with criticisms for re-consideration, in his reply, gave the following quotation: Offended--how could I be? --"Great peace have they who love thy law and nothing shall offend them."
The course which we pursue relative to the dissemination of truth, we commend to our readers--use your time, your means, your influence, for truth, not error. Teach nothing, lend nothing, give nothing--neither book, paper nor tract, by whomsoever published, which you have not carefully examined and feel sure would glorify God.
BACK NUMBERS.
We regret to say that the Nov. and Dec. 1881 issues of the TOWER, are all gone. However, the new readers should all have them; therefore we will republish them as soon as possible. All who want them should send a postal card. We published 6,000 of each of those numbers, and at the time, supposed that sufficient.
Of the present issue, there will be 10,000, which we expect will be sufficient for all requirements. We send the present number to many whose wrappers were marked to stop with last number. This is because, being overcrowded with fresh mails, we had not time to correct all of our list, and to some others, it is sent because of the Supplement, which we hope may be acceptable and profitable to them.
We have plenty of tracts and September numbers, which you can have for free distribution by asking for them. Be discreet in their use, giving only to thinking Christians, so far as you can know, accompanying them with some words of your own. It is better to lend than to give them. Make a list of those to whom you lend, and never let them be idle.
SUPPLEMENT.
As a supplement, we send you "The Tabernacle and its Teachings," referred to in several previous numbers, and on the back of the pamphlet, FOOD FOR THINKING CHRISTIANS.
Questions and Answers are crowded out of this issue.
"Z.W.T. TRACT SOCIETY."
This Society was organized less than one year ago, for the object indicated by the name. It is but proper that a statement should now be made at the beginning of the year 1882.
The object of the Society was stated but no requests for help were made. The donations below mentioned, were free-will offerings--some giving until they could feel it. The amounts ranged from one dollar up to thousands.
Total am'ts of cash received, ..$35,391.18 " expenditures in printing,
etc., etc., .............. 35,336.18
---------- Balance in treasury, Jan. ......$ 55.00 Bills coming due, about ........ 400.00
To all whose donations have been over one hundred dollars, we have made special reports, and to any donor the books are always open for inspection.
We propose continuing this fund, and will endeavor to use it prudently as fast as it is received. In fact as will be noticed in the above report, the expenditure generally exceeds the receipts, but a brother who has already contributed largely, guarantees any debts incurred, to the amount of one thousand dollars in excess of receipts.
It is a principle with us, not to allow the Lord's money to rust.
Should the fund increase sufficiently to permit it, we propose using some portion of it for sending out other laborers.
We never solicit donations. Those who possess this world's goods and are wholly consecrated need only to know how they can use it. Donations to this fund should be specified. Address C. T. Russell, Pittsburgh.
An article from Bro. A. D. Jones of the Day Star, relative to "The blessed dying"--in harmony with views presented in our last two issues --is crowded out of this number, but will appear in our next.
Bro. J. requests us to correct an error which occurred in fourth column second page of the last (Dec.) number of the Day Star, viz: "To the division of the land," sixty instead of six years.
We sent samples of the Day Star to about seven thousand names of our list, that they might have opportunity to judge of its merits.
ALEXANDER AND THE BANKRUPT
It is related of the late Czar of Russia that in answer to the question, "Who is to pay all these?" he wrote --"I, Alexander." It appears that one of his officers had contracted bills which it was impossible for him to pay, and, after contemplating them despairingly, had written the above query at the bottom of the paper, and fallen asleep.
The Czar happened to pass through the room, and, observing the bill and its appended question, generously took the pen and wrote, "I Alexander," and quietly withdrew without disturbing the aid-de-camp. It is easier to imagine than describe the emotions of the debtor, who, on awakening, found all his pecuniary obligations cancelled.
So the sinner looks at his condition and inquires, as the Russian, "Who is to pay all these?" We thank God we can answer that "Jesus paid it all." He was wounded for our transgressions, and by His stripes we are healed.
Jesus writes on our list of sins "I even I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions."
PERILOUS TIMES.
Perilous times in the world are at hand--
Perils by water and perils by land;
Perils in churches and perils in state,
Perils attending the good and the great.
Watchman, how readest thou touching this hour?
Fearful corruption in places of power;
Presidents, princes and kings in dismay--
Tragic unfoldings the news of the day.
Scriptures prophetic discoursing on time,
Teach us the doctrine of increase of crime;
"Evil seducers shall wax worse and worse,"
Ere the Jehovah shall "smite with a curse."
Is the church powerless to draw from the skies
Help when Goliath their army defies?
Is there no king in the camp of "to-day"?
Is the true Israel "fallen away"?
Is it the sign of the presence of Christ,
Of the Messiah in person to reign?
Has sin attained to its manhood of power?
Is this its zenith? Is morning the hour?
The son of perdition, the god of this world,
Down from his kingdom of sin must be hurled;
Tares must be gathered and burned in the fire--
Type of all christians in name--not in power.
Jesus is come! O let it be known,
Jehovah's anointed, now takes the throne;
He takes the helm and the power to command,
He'll guide affairs on the sea and the land.
Jesus is come! let all the world hear,
"Who's on the Lord's side" let him draw near.
"Come with your armor, your loins girt about";
Come with your trumpets, and join in the shout.
Jerichoes tremble and Sodoms consume,
Kingdoms are tottering before the "Commune";
Davids, go forth with your sling-stones of faith,
Take ye the heads of "the giants of Gath."
Selected.
JESUS MADE PERFECT.
"Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him." (`Heb. 5:9`.)
Knowledge of both evil and good is essential to a hearty acceptance of the good and invariable rejection of evil. Therefore, we believe that Jehovah has given, and is giving such knowledge to every intelligent creature, both in heaven and on earth.
We see how all of the human family are getting their knowledge by contact and actual experience with sin and its penalty--misery and death. And we believe, as we have previously expressed, that the heavenly creatures--angels and arch-angels, are learning the same lessons by watching man's experiences. Thus mankind in general, and the church in particular, is made a "spectacle to angels." (`1 Cor. 4:9`.)
If we look backward, we see him who as a man was called Jesus, in his pre-human existence, "The beginning of the creation of God"-- The agent and "righteous servant" of Jehovah, in the creation of all that has since been created.
Perfect as a being, as are all of Jehovah's creatures, yet he knew only good--had never experienced evil, nor witnessed its effects. Later, after angels and arch-angels had been created he witnessed the apostasy and rebellion on the part of Satan and his host, then the setting up of the rival spiritual kingdom defying the
power of Jehovah to overthrow it, and offering freedom from all restraints and from all obedience to God, to those who would join them.
Though the law of God was "The wages of sin is death and the soul (being) that sinneth, it shall die-- yet the execution of that sentence tarried and no evidence of his power to enforce it, was given, and even yet, though he declares that Satan shall, be destroyed, we see it not accomplished. How for ages he has seemed to triumph over Jehovah, his influence even reaching the intelligent creatures of earth, beguiling and alluring them into sin and consigning them to death. What a test of faith in, and love for Jehovah, was this spectacle! For hundreds and thousands of years they must walk by faith in the power of Jehovah to accomplish the destruction of evil doers, and reward the patient fidelity of the loyal and obedient.
Let us now in thought stand side by side with Jesus when tempted by Satan and imagine the trial of faith, he endured, for we believe that he, as we, walked by faith and not by sight. He had witnessed Jehovah's works of creation and preservation; he had marked the wise and loving benevolence that adapted competent means to glorious ends, and such was the strength of love and unbounded confidence awakened by this general knowledge of Jehovah's character, that he did not for a moment hesitate to submit all he had, even life itself, to his will, for the accomplishment of his purposes. The language of his obedient faith was "Though he slay me yet will I trust in him."
So he submitted to the Father's will to accomplish the work of redeeming mankind by exchanging his glorious body and heavenly honors for the form and the nature of man, that by so doing he might be obedient unto death--even the death of the cross, and thus become a ransom for man. All this he did by faith, for he had never yet seen any being restored from the death condition into which he volunteered to go, trusting alone in God's ability as promised, to restore him to a higher form of life, and through him to restore humanity to its perfection.
But when he had become a man, Satan again appeared to tempt him sorely, and we might thus paraphrase the temptation: Ah, says he, how unwise you have been; once you were greater than me, now I am your superior --a powerful spiritual being, while you have become a man--"lower than the angels." How absurd to let Jehovah thus degrade you. True, he has made great promises and greatly boasts of his power to execute them, but he cannot. I have the power of death (`Heb. 2:14`.) and the human race are all subject to my "power" and never has Jehovah been able to liberate even one from death, nor destroy me as he threatened. Now, let me, as your friend, counsel you wisely: Since you have so unwisely forfeited your higher form of life, so that you may never regain it, don't give up, but keep the life you now have. If you die you never shall live again, neither will you be able to liberate mankind from death.
Why should you waste it in a fruitless effort for this race?
If you are the Son of God command that these stones be made bread (`Matt. 4:3`)--use your power for self-gratification and preservation, and don't present your body a living sacrifice, dying daily, when you have a perfect right to life. Jesus answers "Man shall not live by bread alone," I could not enjoy life, even with all my wants supplied, out of communion with my Father.
Your trust in Jehovah is misplaced; first prove Him and see if he will keep his word. Cast yourself down from this pinnacle of the temple--it is written, "He shall give his angels charge concerning thee, and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone."
Jesus replied: "It is written, thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God." We may not thus test the Almighty by needless exposure.
Then Satan showed Jesus the kingdoms and honors of earth, saying: I am the "Prince of this world." (`John 14:30`.) All the kingdoms of earth are under my control; you long for power yourself to do good to mankind; now, I propose that you shall be my representative in the world and rule all these kingdoms. I will put all under your control, if you will yield allegiance to me. You will be great indeed, for you are a perfect man, while all others are imperfect, and you can live forever. Since your life is not forfeited, no one can take it from you. You can thus be Lord of lords and King of kings; to bless mankind throughout all generations. All this power you can have without suffering and you can enter upon the work of blessing at once. And by your wise and prudent ruling, you can greatly elevate and benefit them while they live, whereas, if you die, you simply waste your life and benefit no one.
But Jesus again replies--No matter what inducements you may offer, I will yield allegiance to none but Jehovah--It is written, "Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God and him only shalt thou serve." Thus, his faith in Jehovah's power and promise was tested beyond our power to comprehend; but faith founded on the knowledge of Jehovah's character triumphed --"By his knowledge, shall my righteous servant justify many." By lack of that knowledge of God, Adam fell into transgression while through his knowledge, Jesus remained the righteous servant--therefore, able to justify many.
By faith, he consecrated; by faith, he resisted all temptation; by faith, he endured the self-sacrifice even unto death, as a reward for which he was made perfect as a divine being --the first-born into the divine family.
Thus in Jesus' case faith ended in fruition of that which Jehovah had promised, and being thus perfected-- "exalted," as a divine being--"he is the author of eternal salvation to all them that obey him."
Hence the author and finisher of our faith is he who was made divinely perfect, through the sufferings of the sinless human nature even unto death. (`Heb. 12:2`.)
This agrees with `Phil. 2:8-11`, where Paul declares that Jesus "being found in fashion as a man, (30 years old) humbled (sacrificed himself during 3-1/2 years) and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore, God also HATH HIGHLY EXALTED HIM [to Glory--IMMORTALITY --DIVINITY--], and given him a name above every name... that every tongue should confess that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God, the Father.
As with the leader and forerunner so with the disciples: We are being made perfect through sufferings yet not the flesh (or human nature) is being perfected but our new nature. The outward man perishes but the inward man is renewed day by day until in our resurrection or change we shall be "raised spiritual" like unto Christ's glorious body--made perfect.
THE JEWISH SABBATH.
Because seven was so intimately connected with all God's works and plans, and because he intended all his works to culminate in perfection, therefore, when he selected Israel as a typical people, he gave them several Sabbaths or rests which shadowed certain blessings of rest in future, and as was His method, he used seven to represent that coming perfection of rest.
Hence, we find in their Law, a number of Sabbaths. The seventh day and its cycle of seven times seven days or forty-nine days, reached and pointed to the fiftieth or Jubilee day, the day of Pentecost. So they had year Sabbaths; every seventh year was a Sabbath year to the land, during which it rested. The cycle of the year Sabbaths was seven times seven or forty-nine years, reaching and pointing to the fiftieth or Jubilee year. Thus we see the Sabbaths and their cycles to have been--
The 7th day; 7 x 7 = 49 bringing the 50th or Jubilee day--Pentecost.
The 7th year; 7 x 7 = 49 bringing the 50th or Jubilee year.
Now, these things they did, in a shadowy or typical sense and did not discern the meaning of the types. But as the Apostles declare, these things were done and written before for our (the gospel church's) edification; that we might understand and locate the real Sabbaths by examining the types. Types are not to last forever, but must cease when the antitype has come.
Now, our claim is, that all these typical Law Sabbaths ceased, at or before the death of Jesus, who made an end of the Law which commanded the types. None of these types were commanded before the giving of the Law to Israel at Sinai (`Deut. 5:3-23`) and they were all done away when Jesus "made an end of the Law, nailing it to his cross." (`Col. 2:14`)
The year Sabbaths as types ceased first; they ceased at the Babylonian captivity, and there the great cycle of fifty times fifty years commenced, which reached to the anti-typical or real Jubilee time, the Millennial age--"Times of restitution of all things." This cycle carried us 1874 years into the Christian era, and showed us when the work of restitution was due to begin--beginning by breaking in pieces and removing the rubbish of error and bad government, preparing for the blessings of all the families of the earth.
The typical day Sabbaths, did not pass away for long years afterward;
it was part of the Law when Jesus was in the flesh, and every feature of the Law was duly kept by him. It then must have been a one part of the Law, which ended at the Cross. Now, if the type ended there, the anti-type must have come, and if we can find an anti-type in place of the type, we shall have conclusive proof of the end of the type to support Paul's statement, that "Christ made an end of the Law."
Let us look for the anti-type: Israel was commanded to count from the morrow after the (Passover) Sabbath. There we begin to count the cycle of seven times seven days which would bring us to the real Sabbath (rest) typified by their day Sabbaths. You know how Jesus rose from death on the morning after the Passover Sabbath, and counting fifty days it brings us to Pentecost day. Jesus was with the disciples forty of these days, and then as he had commanded, they waited for the blessing of Pentecost, viz: the outpouring of the Holy Spirit--that sealing of the Spirit, or witness of the acceptance by the Father, gave the rest (Sabbath) of faith.
There then, the disciples entered
into a rest of faith, of which the seventh day was but an imperfect type-- a rest not of one day in the week, but of all days. As Jews they had scrupulously observed the seventh day as a rest day; no work, of any sort must be done in it. Yet they were in a condition of unrest, for though they kept this one feature of the Law, many others they could not keep and Jesus had said that the failure in keeping one point constituted the person a breaker of the Law, and consequently none of them ever kept the Law, but Jesus only. So they were in a condition of unrest actually and hence Jesus addressed himself to all such, saying "Come unto me all ye that are weary and heavy laden (trying to do a thing impossible to you, as members of a fallen race, viz: to keep the perfect Law of God)--I will give you rest." (Sabbath means rest. (`Matt. 11:28`.) While with them, Jesus did not give them the rest, but, he like them, observed the type as was necessary until it was "finished" on the cross. And after his resurrection he did not give them the promised rest, but told them to tarry until they should receive the Comforter--the evidence of their acceptance as Sons of Jehovah. When thus sealed by the Spirit, it was the evidence of the truth of all Jesus promised, the witness of their adoption to the divine family.
This same rest or Sabbath is the privilege of every true child of God ever since, "We that believe do enter into rest." (`Heb. 4:3`.)
But no one can enter into a full rest of faith, who does not realize Christ as the end of the Law to every one who believeth. (`Rom. 10:4`.) To all such, love is the fulfilling of the law. Love to God will produce a spirit of obedience, so that we will do so as far as able, those things which are well pleasing in his sight; even so far as the crucifixion of the flesh with its affections and desires. Thus, "Love is the fulfilling of the Law." (`Rom. 13:10`.) Thus "The righteousness (or spirit) of the Law is fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit."
We may rest if we require it, on the seventh or first or any other day and be blameless; but if we observe any of these days in an attempt to keep the law given to Israel (`Gal. 5:4`) but never given to the Gentiles nor to Christians, and fulfilled and ended in the person of Jesus, even so far as it applied to Israel--has failed to fully appreciate the value of Christ's finished work, and failed to appreciate his standing as a son, not under the written law which was given to the house of servants.
Such as are seeking to commend themselves to God by works of the Law, are not resting but working, for as Paul says--"He that is entered into rest has ceased from his own works as God did (rest) from his." (`Heb. 4:10`.) God rested from his works and committed it all to the Son, and we, if we would rest, must cease from our works--cease from the law and accept of its legal fulfilment as being accomplished once for all in our representative, Jesus.
When we realize that even were we Israelites, we are no longer condemned, but justified by that Law, Jesus having ransomed all who were under it; and, that as new creatures in Christ, we are under only the "Law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus," viz: Love. Now we rest well pleased to have it so; and to enjoy this real antitypical rest (Sabbath) which Christ gives to the house of sons, rather than the type of it given to the house of servants. Thus, by letting Christ do it, we rest from our own works as God did from his. [As shown in last issue, God rests since his creation of man and "has committed all judgment (ruling and administration of earth) unto the son." "The Father worketh hitherto, and (now) I work," said Jesus.]
There remaineth a rest [Sabbath] for the people of God--when we enter fully into all the blessings promised; but let us not only look forward to it, with joy, but endeavor to use and enjoy the earnest of our inheritance; the sample of our coming rest which is now our privilege. "Come unto me and I will give you rest." "They that believe do enter into rest."
SUNDAY.
We are glad that by common consent some one day in the week is generally observed as a day for rest from worldly toil. The day generally observed--the first day of the week--we regard as especially fitting and appropriate, because on the first day of the week, Jesus, our Lord, arose from death--and on the first day came the Holy Spirit upon the church in the upper room (Pentecost). Concerning the name of this day, whether it be called "Sunday," "The first-day," "The Sabbath day," or "The Lord's day," we care little. At most they are only names, though our preference would rather incline to the latter. Our objection to calling it a Sabbath or rest day being, first, that to the fleshly Israel, God called the seventh day the Sabbath, and there is a liability to confusion of thoughts, and a mistaking of the servants' law for the liberty or privilege of the Sons of God. Secondly, with most of christians, the first day of the week is the one on which they work the most and hardest, and consequently it could not appropriately be termed a rest or Sabbath.
We much regret, that even among thinking christians, the "Lord's day" and its privileges are so little understood and appreciated. To most of them, its observance is but the keeping of the fourth command of the Law though they well know that the Law reads "The seventh day is the Sabbath," and that the day they observe is the first. For the ignorance and superstition and legal dread of the Lord's day, the clergy is largely to blame. Many of them doubtless fear that if recognized as a privilege, and not as a law, it would be violated. But the fear of man always gets us into a snare of the devil, and so this fear has borne much poisonous fruit in the church, for it has helped to put christians under the Law of Moses, instead of under that of Christ-- "Love," and thus has deprived many of entering into rest. It would be far better that christians should be resting fully in Christ and free from the Law--standing fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made them free (`Gal. 5:1`.) both on this and other subjects, though the preaching of the truth on the subject had left the world at liberty to disregard the "Lord's day." This age we must remember is especially designed for the preparation of the body or Bride of Christ, that when they are united or made one with him, now in the end of this age, the world may believe during the incoming age.
SON OF GOD.
There seem to be different senses in which God is a Father; or he is a Father of his creatures, on different planes. But there is no mother, on either plane. As the Creator of Angels and men, he is their Father, and they his sons, though on different planes.
That the Angels (Spiritual beings) are called sons of God, seems evident from several statements; for instance --`Job 1:6` and `2:1`; There was a day when the Sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them.
Also `Job 38:7`. When the morning stars sang together, and all the Sons of God shouted for joy. Man is also a Son of God by creation. `Luke 3:38` says, Adam was a Son of God.
Then there is a higher sense in which some are to become sons, not only on the spiritual plane, but immortal sons. Those, who present their bodies a living sacrifice, and thus suffer with Christ, are made partakers of the divine nature, and will be made in the express image of God's person--`Heb. 1:3`. The body of their humiliation changed, and fashioned like Christ's glorious body. `Phil. 3:21`. Has not the Son of God, been a Son, successively, in all of the three senses?
It would seem that he appeared to Abraham, vailed as a man, when the three men came to him in the heat of the day; `Gen. 18:1,13,22`; that he was with three Hebrews in the fiery furnace--`Dan. 3:25`; and Daniel saw him as a spiritual being, and fell as a dead man. `Dan. 10`. Unquestionably he was the beginning of the Creation, of God in his pre-existent state, whatever application may be made of `Rev. 3:14`.
In due time he was born of a woman, and became a man; and was a son of God, as the first Adam-- man--, was a son, as seems clear from `Luke 1:35`.
On that plane he was the second son; and gave himself a ransom for the first. The first man's disobedience and death involved the whole human family in a state of death; the second man's obedience unto death, secured for the same family justification to life--the same life that was lost. God sending his own son-- son before he came--in the likeness of sinful flesh etc. `Rom. 8:3`.
The blood of Jesus Christ, his son --son after he came--cleanseth us from all sin. `1 Jno. 1:7`.
Let us examine `Phil. 2:5`, on, in the light of the new Revision, text, and marginal reading by the American Committee.
Have this mind in you which was also in Christ Jesus: who existing in the form of God, counted not the being on an equality with God, a thing to be grasped; but emptied himself, taking the form of a bond servant, becoming in the likeness of men, etc.
Here is certainly a clear statement of his pre-existence in God's form,-- a spiritual being; yet not equal with him; and of a change of condition from a spiritual to a human being. He certainly was not immortal in either of these phases of his existence. If he had been, as a spiritual being, he could not have become a man; and as a man, he could not have died; but being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient unto death, yea, the death of the cross.
Wherefore--because of this--God highly exalted him, and gave him a name-position and condition--which is above every name. He could not "grasp" it himself, but God exalted him; raised him from the dead, and now he is the express image of his Father's person, or, being the effulgence of his glory, and the very image of his substance, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had made purifications of sins--by his death,--sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high; having become, by so much, better than the angels, as he hath inherited a more excellent name than they. `Heb. 1:3,4`.
Does not Paul have in mind these three phases or planes of sonship in `Rom. 1:3,4`? Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, which he promised afore by his prophets in the holy Scriptures, concerning His Son, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh; who was declared to be the Son of God with power, by the resurrection from the dead.
Though we may not be able to explain all the mystery, yet it seems that on the last two planes, there was a begetting and birth. Now the birth of Jesus--the man--was on this wise; Mary...was found with child of the Holy Spirit--power of God--... that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; and she shall bring forth a son; and thou shalt call his name Jesus. `Matt. 1:18-21`.
Again in `Luke 1:35`. And the Angel answered and said unto her; The Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee; wherefore, also that which is to be born shall be called holy, the Son of God. Out of Egypt I did call my Son. `Luke 2:15`. He grew in favor with God and man, and at the age of thirty, he made a covenant of death and expressed it by baptism; when the Holy Spirit came upon him. Through that Spirit he offered himself--his human nature and body--without spot to God--`Heb. 9:14`.--; and it became the germ of a new nature so when he was put to death in the flesh, he was made alive by the Spirit--`1 Pet. 3:18`; and became a quickening--life giving Spirit. `1 Cor. 15:45`. The perfect natural man was crowned with glory and honor, `Heb. 2:7`, and lost it; but Jesus came to restore him. So he was crowned with glory and honor, that by the grace of God, he should taste of death for every man --`Heb. 2:9`; which shows that he did not take our fallen nature. And the word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not his Son into the world, to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him.
Was it the only begotten on the spiritual plane who died? We would say on the earthly.
The man Christ gave himself a ransom for all. `1 Tim. 2:5,6`. Because he gave his human nature, his heavenly Father gave him the divine nature --because he gave his earthly body, God gave him a spiritual body. God gives to every seed its own body, as it hath pleased him. `1 Cor. 15:38`.
He does with all who present their bodies a living sacrifice, as he did with Jesus. Having suffered with him, even unto death, they will be glorified with him, to become his body; the fullness or full development of him who is filling all things with all--`Eph. 1:23`. In brief, this completed Christ, having died and lived again, becomes Lord--`Rom. 14:9`;
or Agelasting Father of the human family restored, by the "better sacrifice,"--`Heb. 9:23`, to the original condition of sons. These restored sons, instead of being required to sacrifice the human, to become partakers of the divine nature; are given each a hundred years to fully develop the human. `Isa. 65`.
B. W. KEITH.
ASSEMBLING TOGETHER.
"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...and so much the more as ye see the day approaching." (`Heb. 10:25`.)
The necessity for the assembling together for mutual edification, encouragement and strengthening, has been very generally acknowledged among christians, yet we doubt if this most desirable end is very frequently attained--and why? Because we think, in most cases, God is not permitted to speak, among them, or if so, he is limited.
These assemblings together, oftenest take the form of prayer and experience meetings, unless there is one of the number who is able to preach, and then the tendency is to depend upon that one, to a greater extent than is profitable.
The writer attended one of these experience meetings among those professing the higher life, where God was almost shut out, and poor weak humanity, ignorant of its weakness as it always is, had abundant opportunity to boast itself. At the beginning of the meeting, one text of scripture was read, the context of which, all were ignorant of, and consequently its true application could not be understood. The dear old book was closed and reverently laid aside and a prayer was offered, after which, one after another told how he or she felt and acted. One lady told how she, before rising in the morning, received her morsel of food (a single text of scripture) on which she fed all day. How many do so--taking a text that happens to be stored in memory, often interpreting it out of all harmony with the context because they fail to examine it closely, taking a little crumb of comfort, when the Lord has spread his bountiful table and invited them to feast at it.
Nearly two hours passed and the human spirit had magnified itself greatly, while the holy spirit (God-like mind) of the "new creatures," (for such I believe they were) was almost quenched. A brother seemed to perceive that something was wrong, and said "What these meetings want is more prayer," and then proceeded to pray for every thing he could think of, ignorant of the fact that he asked for many things in direct opposition to God's expressed will. And so the meeting closed without attaining the object for which they met, because God was shut out.
Again, at another of these meetings, one hungry sister ventured to ask information with reference to a certain scripture, and was told that lest it should provoke controversy, and since they wished to have harmony, they would just pass over that, and so she was left unfed.
Now is this right--shall we sell the truth to purchase harmony--and are we so puffed up as to be offended if God's word should overthrow our former convictions? Or shall we limit God to five or ten minutes and take the remainder of two hours to listen to each others experiences, which in nine cases out of ten, would be better untold? Why not open the doors wide and let the blessed Master come in and lead our meetings?
It matters not whether there is any one learned or talented among you. Let each one bring his own Bible, paper, and pencil, and avail yourselves of as many helps in the way of a Concordance, Em. Diaglott, old and new versions of the New Testament, etc., as possible. Choose your subject; ask for the Spirit's guidance in the understanding of it; then read, think, compare scripture with scripture, and you will assuredly be guided into truth. "And the truth shall make you free"--free from error, superstition, and the corruption of our perverse nature, and the Holy Spirit (mind of God and Christ) if entertained will liberate you from formality, as well as from self-exaltation.
Our prayers need not be long--or vain repetitions of the same thing, since we are not heard for our much speaking. In few and simple words,
we can make known our wants as far as we can estimate them; but God has so much more to tell us than we have to tell him. Let him speak, much and long and often--through his WORD. "Sanctify them through thy truth, thy word is truth," was Jesus' prayer, and his admonition, "Search the Scriptures for these are they that testify of me." (`John 17:17` and `5:39`.) So will we learn to delight ourselves in God's Law; it will be our meditation by night and by day. (`Psa. 119:97`.) So also will he work in us to will and to do of his good pleasure. (`Phil. 2:13`.)
R. W.
CONSECRATION TO A WORK.
Among Christians there is much which passes for "entire consecration," but it is often a consecration to some self-imposed task, or work, instead of to God.
Some are consecrated and are living sacrifices to business, some to their families, some to the temperance work, some to building up a denominational church or Sunday School, some to ministering to the poor and the sick. These are each good enough in their way, but none of these are the proper consecration for a follower of Jesus.
Our consecration, like that of Jesus, should be to do the will of our Father in Heaven. Jesus says he came not to do his own will, but the will of Him that sent him. (`John 6:38`) The fact that you have any choice or preference as to what you shall do, is an evidence in itself, that your will is not dead.
Consecration to a work of our own choosing merely, will never bring us to the great reward. "I beseech you brethren, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable UNTO GOD." Then, if He sends you into the "temperance work," or into any other work, it will be acceptable as unto the Lord.
If will less, and seeking only to do his will it will bring us to His Word much and often, to learn that will, and "He that seeketh findeth." We leave the subject here, merely suggesting that thus seeking after, thus consecrating, some who are now--laboring chiefly for "the meat that perisheth" or Temperance and moral reforms in the world, or for the extension of sectarian church influence, would find directions something like the following:
This is the will of God even YOUR sanctification. (`1 Thes. 4:3`.) Do "good unto all men [in any way] as you have opportunity especially to the household of faith." (`Gal. 6:10`.) "Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together" (`Heb. 10:25`.) but meet for the purpose of "BUILDING UP YOURSELVES on your most holy faith." (`Jude 20`.)
INQUIRIES ANSWERED.
The following letter received recently was handed to Sister Russell for answering, and as the points might interest others, we publish.
DEAR SIR:--
Sent you a card which you will receive before you see this. Wished to ask several questions. I am interested in your paper, am a thinking Christian, but not settled in my views, seeking MORE LIGHT. Are we to expect revivals and the conversion of sinners now? Are we to labor for this result? Is the church coming up higher? Are we to come out of the church, take our name off church books, or remain in the church and labor to bring the rest upon the higher plain; or is each individual to be fully persuaded in his own mind and act according to his conscience? Shall I tell my sisters of like faith, better come out from among them nominally? In spirit, I am far from the majority--this I have called "coming out from among them. I want to be right. Will you take the trouble to answer "the thinking Christian's questions? Please be plain. Many are inquiring. What shall I tell them? I may read your letter (should you write one) to others.
My husband is a Methodist minister. Not preaching this year however.
Tell me plain truth, fear not.
DEAR SISTER:--Your letter is at hand, many such show us that there are very many hungry, thinking christians. Our love and sympathy reach out to all such though we have never met face to face, and we call them brother and sister because we see in them the family likeness--the spirit of Christ.
You ask if we may expect revivals of religion in the nominal church. No, we do not look for any evidence whatever of God's favor to this last phase of the nominal Gospel church which is spewed out of his mouth, because in her own estimation, she is rich and increased in goods (both spiritual and temporal) and has need of nothing. See how perfectly the picture of the church of to-day is drawn in `Rev. 3:14,18`. That mixed condition of worldliness and lukewarm christianity we believe to be the Babylon (confusion) of `Rev. 18:2`, out of which (`vs. 4`) the Lord calls the few of his own who still remain in that city doomed to destruction. There will probably be some accessions to their membership, but mainly from the Sunday Schools--the church is straining every effort to keep up appearances and urging immature childhood to join its ranks and swell its numbers. But this is not making christians as we understand the word. Christians are those who have consecrated themselves to the Lord--agree to follow Jesus' footsteps in the crucifying of the flesh (the human privileges and honors, etc.)
All others than the true wheat brought in, help to swell the numbers of the tares. Tares are not wicked people necessarily (though some are wicked) but people who are out of place in the church--imitating christians in some respects as tares imitate wheat. Those who get such into the church nominal, do an injury both to the person and to the church. The church is injured by getting a lifeless member to absorb its vitality, and who as a representative will serve to lower the standard of christianity.
The individual is injured by being told that he is a christian when he is not, and thus is worse off than if aware of his own position.
Surely, then, many people who engage in this improper work, some of whom, if not all, think they are doing God service, must be mistaken. And this work has been going on for years so that much of the wheat has been almost choked with tares. It is not God's work but Satan's. The tares do an injury to the church, and Satan was instrumental (using God's children as his instruments) in getting them into the church to work the havoc they have. "He that sowed the tares is the devil," (`Matt. 13`,) no matter who was willing or unwittingly the instrument, (`vs. 21`).
With this, I will mail a June No. of ZION'S WATCH TOWER, the first article of which ("He on the housetop") will more thoroughly answer your question with reference to coming out of Babylon. It is of no use, to remain there trying to prop an organization which God has doomed to destruction: Better far, to trust his judgment with reference to expediency and promptly obey his command as soon as he makes it clear. The Lord loves prompt obedience, and then it is a great advantage, as it gives no opportunity to confer with flesh and blood.
Since we are in the "harvest" of the age, the work to be done is harvest work: The great work of the present is to help to ripen and gather into the barn-condition of safety, the true wheat. We would "do good to all men especially to the household of faith"--But if we find enough of this special work to keep our time fully occupied, we have no occasion whatever to worry about the rest of the world; for in God's "due time," they shall all be brought to a knowledge of the truth "and a full, fair opportunity to gain eternal life, and though they may first die (in Adam) the ransom price entitles them to a restoration from the Adamic death, and an opportunity to escape the second death by obedience to the law of God written in their hearts, no more stony but fleshly. (`Jer. 31:33`.) Then, instead of being prone to do evil as the sparks to fly upward, it will be the reverse--easy and natural to obey when the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the whole earth, and when the Lord rules instead of Satan.
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