Joshua V. Himes
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
AND EXPOSITOR OF PROPHECY.
Terms.—$1,00 per Vol. (24 Nos.) in advance Office No. 14 Devonshire street, Boston.
J. V. Himes, J. Litch, and S. Bliss, Editors.
Dow & Jackson, Printers, Boston.
JVHe
I.—The word of God teaches that this earth is to be regenerated, in the restitution of all things, and restored to its Eden state as it came from the hand of its Maker be fore the fall, and is to be the eternal abode of the righteous in their resurrection state. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.1
II.—The only Millenium found in the word of God, is the 1000 years which are to intervene between the first and second resurrections, as brought to view in the 20th of Revelations. And the various portions of Scripture which are adduced as evidence of such a period in time, are to have their fulfilment only in the New Earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.2
III—The only restoration of Israel yet future, is the restoration of the Saints to the New Earth, when the Lord my God shall come, and all his saints with him. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.3
IV.—The signs which were to precede the coming of our Savior, have all been given; and the prophecies have all been fulfilled but those which relate to the coming of Christ, the end of this world, and the restitution of all things. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.4
V.—There are none of the prophetic periods, as we understand them, extending beyond the [Jewish] year 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.5
The above we shall ever maintain as the immutable truths of the word of God, and therefore, till our Lord come, we shall ever look for his return as the next event in historical prophecy. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.6
JVHe
“The curfew tolls the knell” of Forty Three!
Another New Year’s hallow’d Morn we see!
Another year! How thrilling is the thought,
That ere its close this world may come to nought!
The quick be chang’d, the sainted dead awake,
Prophets and patriarchs their graves forsake,
And all the blood wash’d throng, with paens sweet,
Ascend in air, their glorious King to meet!
Another year has fled! Here let us pause
And mark how God has own’d this glorious cause.
A few short years, and all were slumbering o’er
The advent of the Lord, though at the door:—
Engross’d with pleasures, settled on their lees,
And only dreaming of inglorious ease.
But, suddenly a sound broke on the ear,
And thousands started from their sleep to hear:
The Bridegroom cometh, was the midnight cry;
Go, trim thy lamp, the Master draweth nigh!
The voice of one alone, for years, was heard;
But God his message bless’d: ‘twas the sure word.
For years that cry was pass’d by as a dream,
An idle tale—a visionary scheme:
But few believ’d; men heard and turn’d away,
Pursu’d the business of each passing day,
And vainly dream’d, while counting o’er their gold,
That time would never end, as is foretold. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.7
A change came o’er the spirit of their dream,
And men began to listen to the theme.
Sinners that came to scoff, remain’d to pray;
And cold backsliders cast their sins away.
The bold blasphemer paus’d in his career,
And infidels drew nigh, the word to hear,
And all who lov’d the appearing of the Lord,
With joy and thankfulness receiv’d the word.
Heaven its sealing grace abundant did impart;
Conviction fasten’d on the soften’d heart;
Men search’d the word of God, that they might know
Whether the Scriptures taught these things were so;
And there they found, written by holy men,
Inspir’d of God, that Christ would come again,
To change the living, judge the quick and dead,
And raise the saints from out their dusty bed,
Like Christ’s own body change the bodies vile
Of those his blood has wash’d, who know no guile.
They also read that those who would not turn
To God, as chaff would like an oven burn;
The elements should melt in that great day;
The heavens with a great noise should pass away;
The earth should be dissolv’d, and all therein
Should be burn’d up to make an end of sin.
Nevertheless, the promise standeth sure:
The earth renew’d forever shall endure. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.8
These truths were seen, but then the TIME, how near?
Is it reveal’d when Jesus will appear?
Yes! four great kingdoms must arise and fall,
And then God’s kingdom triumph over all.
Great Babylon and Persia o’er the world,
With Greece and Rome, have each their flag unfurl’d;
Fulfill’d the prophecy, which God has given;
And now the kingdom waits her King from heaven:
Waits for the stone to smite the mingled feet,
And the whole image into pieces beat;
To break the iron, brass, gold, silver, clay,
Like chaff, the winds of heaven will blow away;
Leaving no place for them from south to north,
And then the stone—a mountain—fills the earth:
Waits, till the ten horn’d beast, diverse from all,
Dreadful and terrible, receives his fall,
Is slain, and to the burning flame is giv’n
With no escape from the decree of heav’n:
Waits, till the horn that wax’d exceding great
Is broken without hand—its certain fate:
Waits, till the sanctuary of the Lord
Is cleans’d, as he has told us in his word:
Waits, till the Man of Sin is made to yield,
And all the tares are gather’d from the field:
And waits, until the Bridegroom shall appear—
The Savior, whom we hope to see this year.
The “days” are nearly ended. Soon the sun
Of time must cease its wonted race to run.
Also the signs, that God has kindly giv’n,
Have been hung out upon the vault of heav’n:
The sun in sackcloth rob’d, was dark at noon;
And, turn’d to blood, withheld her light, the moon;
The stars have fallen, as leaves fall from the vine,
Or like untimely figs—all know the sign;
Wonders foretold in heaven above, strange lights,
Pillars of smoke, blood, fire, and fearful sights,
All tend to show the nearness of that day,
Whose brightness gilds the page of prophecy.
These signs recorded on the sacred page,
And all fulfill’d within this present age,
With the fulfilment of all God has spoken,
That should be of Christ’s advent a sure token,
Were seen by those who search’d the holy word,
To prove the speedy coming of the Lord.
And as our Savior told us, when we see
Begin to be fulfill’d this prophecy,
To know God’s kingdom then would soon appear,
As budding trees denote the summer near;
So those who saw, believ’d, and ran to give
The midnight cry, that all who would, might live.
Like magic spread the word from south to north,
From east to west the messenger went, forth;
On swiftest pinions flew the joyful sound,
And far and wide the tidings spread around.
Where’er the cry was given, men paus’d to hear,
Surpris’d to think the END could be so near;
Astonish’d at the doctrine which they heard,
Those who had never search’d the sacred word,
Their Bibles read, and studied day by day;
And some, with prayer, that God would lead the way:
With humble faith to their astonish’d sight,
The Lord unseal’d the word: they saw the light.
It burst upon their vision, like the sun
Shining through darkness ere the the night is done.
Trusting to men, they had been taught to look
Upon the prophecies, as a seal’d book;
And to be seal’d forever from our view,
With which, while here, we nothing have to do;
As revelations which are hidden things,
And are known only to the King of kings.
But now the light which shone upon the word,
The harmony of prophecy restor’d.
The clouds of darkness which had brooded o’er
Those glorious promises, obscur’d no more.
The Bible now another book became;
Nor seem’d to those who knew it best, the same.
Parts of one perfect whole, each part was seen,
With no link wanting to connect between;
But each well fitted in its proper sphere,
As polish’d stones some goodly fabric rear.
A beauty and a glory, thus came o’er
The sacred page that ne’er was seen before.
The glorious kingdom, that will soon be giv’n
Unto the children of the King of heav’n,
Was brought to view; and paradise restor’d,
Taught men to love the appearing of the Lord.
The doctrine spread, believers multiplied,
Thousands confess’d the truth on every side,
And willing men went forth to give the word,
And preach the speedy coming of the Lord.
The labors of these self-denying men,
Were bless’d of God, and souls were gathered in,
A harvest rich, who trust their sins forgiven,
And joyfully await the Lord from heav’n. HST January 3, 1844, page 161.9
Then Satan saw the time was drawing nigh,
When he should be dethron’d and death should die.
He saw the dangers thickening in his path,
And to the work he hasten’d with great wrath,
Knowing his time was short; and knowing too,
That what he would, that he must quickly do.
His Trumpet then he blew, the war began,
His lines he formed and disciplin’d each man; HST January 3, 1844, page 161.10
His large artilery was brought to bear,
To blow the doctrine into thinnest air:
Along the lines were fir’d gun after gun;
At each discharge he thought the work was done;
But when the smoke was gone, truth like the rock,
Still stood: it had not felt the shock.
For the great men—the Doctors of the Law,
Each in their turn had fought a man of straw,
And vainly dream’d of having overthrown
The truth: they fought creations of their own.
The glorious advent doctrine has thus far
Escap’d unscath’d amid this wordy war;
And though a wicked world may rave and roar,
‘Twill still prevail till “time shall be no more.” HST January 3, 1844, page 162.1
As on the crumbling verge of time, we stand,
And cast our eye on towards the wish’d for land
How bright the prospect! how o’erwhelmning too!
How awful, and how glorious, the view!
The Lord himself we soon expect to see
Descend from heaven with royal majesty,
With the Archangels voice—a fearful sound,
And which will wake the righteous under ground.
He, who was once for dying sinners slain,
Will come again, a mighty King to reign;
To bruise the serpent’s head and earth restore,
That it may bloom as Eden evermore;
To make the wilderness with joy to sing,
And every desert waste, its increase bring.
Then, the dominion “under the whole heav’n,“
Will to the saints of the Most High be giv’n,
Who will forever and forever reign,
While God’s eternal promises remain.
Then, all the godly ones of Adam’s race,
From Abel, down to the last child of grace,
Rais’d incorruptible, and rob’d in white,
Will dwell forever in eternal light.
Our father Abraham will then no more
A stranger be on promis’d Canaan’s shore:
He and his seed, in number as the sand,
Who died and saw in faith the promis’d land,
They who were tempted, mock’d, scourg’d, ston’d, and slain,
Will then for earthly loss, receive the gain.
This mortal, then, immortal will put on,
And all the ills and woes of life be gone.
In darkness, then, the blind will grope no more;
The sufferings of the sick will then be o’er;
The dumb will sweetly sing, the deaf will hear;
The lame will leap, as speeds the bounding deer;
All tears will then be wip’d from every eye,
And the grim tyrant, death itself shall die.
Their useless swords, to ploughshares then will turn;
Their spears, to pruning hooks; and men will learn
To war no more: but it will ever cease
Under Emmanuel’s reign—the Prince of Peace.
Like to a bride adorn’d, from God will come
Our happy home—the New Jerusalem.
Zion with her fair mansions will appear,
With gates of pearls, and walls like crystal clear,
Her streets all pav’d with pure transparent gold,
And precious stones; transporting to behold!
The city then will need no more the light
Of Sun, or Moon; and there will be no night.
The glory of the Father there will shine:
The light thereof will be the Lamb divine.
The nations that are sav’d will there attend,
Walk in her light and to her Sov’reign bend;
And kings their glory there will freely bring,
In humble adoration of her King.
From out the throne a river pure will flow,
And on each side, the trees of life will grow;—
Their leaf for medicine, their fruit for meat,
Of which the promis’d seed may freely eat.
The wilderness like Eden then restor’d,
The desert, like the garden of the Lord,
And barren vales with roses blossoming,
All deck’d in beauty, then will sweetly sing.
The myrtle tree will grow where briers were;
And where the thorn, the box and spiral fir.
The lion then no more will thirst for blood,
But like the ox, will eat the straw for food.
The wolf and lamb together then will lay,
And with the child, shall innocently play.
The curse remov’d will prove his promise true,
Who said, “Behold, I create all things new.”
The Tabernacle of the Lord will then,
As he has surely promis’d, be with men;
And God will dwell, and walk with them, and He
Shall be their God: they shall his people be.
The will of God will then on earth be done,
As now in heaven; and all shall serve the Son.
The knowledge of the Lord will cover o’er
The world, as waters spread from shore to shore;
And no man, then, shall to his neighbor say
Know ye the Lord, or walk ye in this way:
For, all shall know the Lord, both small and great,
Who gain admittance to that heav’nly state.
Beside still waters then the Lord will lead,
And in green pastures all his flock will feed;
He in his arms, the gentle lambs will bear,
And ere they call, will answer every prayer.
In all God’s holy mountain there will be
Nothing to mar its full felicity.
Such is the happy state for which we sigh,
And such the kingdom which is drawing nigh. HST January 3, 1844, page 162.2
Reader, are you a trav’ler in that road,
Which leads so soon to glory and to God?
If you’ve begun the journey, ne’er give o’er
Until you reach fair Canaau’s happy shore.
Faint not, nor be discouraged by the way,
Though sceptics sneer, and fools refuse to pray;
Though watchmen on the walls who will not look,
Can find no warning in God’s holy book,
His household like the evil servant treat,—
Withholding from them seasonable meat,
And in their hearts delight themselves to say,
My Lord his promis’d coming will delay;
And though the last day scoffers claim that all
Things now remain, as ever since the fall,
And ask what signs denote that Christ is near?
Or where the promise that he will appear.
Be not dismay’d: for these things needs must be
In order to fulfil the prophecy.
They willingly are ignorant, that God
Destroy’d the old world by a mighty flood;
And that the heavens and earth by the same word,
Are kept unto the coming of the Lord,
In store, to be dissolv’d by fire, and then
Will be the judgment of ungodly men.
The narrow path, men ever will despise;
‘Tis shunn’d by all the proud and worldly wise;
An humble few delight therein to go;
The multitude take the broad road to woe.
As ‘twas in Sodom, and before the flood,
They mock’d the messengers and word of God,
They revel’d on, and knew not till the day
That God destroy’d and took them all away;
So will the coming of the Savior be,
When to the rocks and mountains they will flee.
Then fear not little flock, the watchful care
Of Him who made all things, is yours to share.
Be firm, be watchful, vigilant, and pray
That God will guide you in his chosen way;
And though the lamps of many may go out,
Keep yours well trimm’d, and loins well girt about;
And live like men that for the Master wait,
That you may enter through the heavenly gate:
For though all men prove liars, yet sure the Lord
Will vindicate his ever faithful word;
And soon, what Adam lost, Christ will regain,
And his kingdom forever shall remain.
Boston, Jan. 1st, 1844. B.
From the Midnight Cry. HST January 3, 1844, page 162.3
JVHe
Buffalo, Dec. 4, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 162.4
Dear Bro. Himes,—I am now in this city, lecturing to a house full of attentive hearers. The brethren have rented the Buffalo Theatre which will hold somewhere between 1,500 and 2,000. I gave three lectures yesterday, assisted by brothers Barry, Skinner and Caldwell. I saw the tears of some in the congregation, who, I was informed, were old, hardened infidels. I am confident God will give us some, if not many of these souls as trophies of his grace. I first lectured in Rochester ten days. God gave a number to us in this place. We left there (Brother Barry and wife, myself and son George) for Lockport, since which time we have heard from Rochester, that more or less have been converted to God every night, under the labors of brothers Patten, Morley, and Mansfield. At Lockport we were received by Elder Elom Galusha and family with great cordiality, and staid with him ten days,—gave a full course of lectures, and produced an interest which will be felt in the Baptist Church until Christ shall come. Bro. Galusha came out full in the faith of ‘43. He is a happy man, and a strong man in faith. Already he begins to suffer persecution from the proud and scoffing ministry and worldly professors; but he will remain steadfast. He is no bigot, but loves Christ and his image where he finds it. With him I am well pleased; he will do much to give the “midnight cry.” Three more Baptist ministers will help him in this vicinity: brothers Andrus, Winchell, Claighorne, and some others, are strongly convicted. I believe God will do a great work in this region. Some were already converted, and many convicted. Bro. Barry and myself gave a full course of lectures here, which disturbed the evil servants, who cry peace and safety, much. One of these peace-and-safety preachers broke in upon us two or three times while I was lecturing, showing himself neither a gentleman nor a Christian. He was rebuked in a special manner by the trustees of the Church. I am astonished that they cannot see their own character so clearly described in the Bible.—They aim to destroy every conviction of the truth which may be fastened on the minds of the impenitent, and soon God will make manifest their deception to the whole world. I rejoice more and more in the word of God, when I see every day its truth verified in the fulfilment of its prophecies. How can such men escape the damnation of hell? HST January 3, 1844, page 162.5
I fear I shall not be able to visit New-York soon. I have had calls every day, since I have been here. Next week I go to Lewiston on Niagara River; week after to Penfield, where brother Bernard labors; from thence to Auburn, Syracuse, Utica, and home. Bro. I. E. Jones must come this way. I will write you from Penfield, if the Lord comes not before. HST January 3, 1844, page 162.6
Yours in the blessed hope,
Wm. Miller.
JVHe
Dear Brother Himes:—I received a letter from my niece giving some account of the labors of Sister Paine and herself, in the interior of this State, from which I learn, that a hall was provided for them in Ware Village, where they found but very few who were friendly to the Second Advent near. A local Methodist preacher was very friendly to them, and had them to his house; here they labored a week; backsliders returned to their father’s house; from 25 to 30 were hopefully converted to God. and became believers in the advent near. Of the last night she says, “and a crowded congregation was chained by the power of God, for 2 1-2 hours, while sister Paine presented the state of the church, at the first advent,—etc., etc., gentlemen standing all that time—while tears bespoke the feeling of their hearts,” the parting scene was very interesting. In Hardwick they held their meetings in a private house; here the work was principally among professors, whom they found as in the 7th chapter of Romans; but some of them found themselves as in the 8th ere they left; “high sounding professors were brought to bow like little children, and embrace the evidence of the Advent near.” Next, they visited Pelham, where there was not an advent believer: wrapt in prejudice, little good was done; some said if these things were not true, they would like to have the learned tell them what was the truth. A local Methodist Preacher next invited them to Prescott, where they occupied the meeting house; reading the scriptures, accompanied by the Spirit, swept from the minds of many their former notions about the Jew’s return, etc., etc.; four were hopefully converted; and many others confessed they could see no reason why it might not be true. They next stopped at Dana, being invited by a man who was part owner of the meeting house, in which they lectured; conviction seemed to be fastening on the minds of many of the wicked, but the professors coming in with their “turning upside down the word of God,” and so little apparent good was effected in this place. She winds up her letter, by exhorting her Advent sisters to be laboring for God, in some way or other, so that they may be the means of saving, at least one soul, who shall shine bright in glory, Yours. L. H. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.1
JVHe
Dear Brother Himes:—When I wrote to you last, I was making my arrangements to go out West, and I really expected to have left this section of the country several weeks ago, but in the providence of God I have been prevented. And I think I can clearly see why my way was hedged up, as a door, very unexpectedly has been opened for me in the three following places, viz; Lowell, Nashua and Manchester, to labor alternately, probably till I am called home, an event for which I am daily looking. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.2
With the advent brethren in Lowell, who worship at the Hamilton Hall, I expect to spend two fifths of the time,—with the brethren at Nashua one fifth, and with the brethren here the other two fifths. I have already spent two Sabbaths in Lowell, and the last evening I was there, 16 came forward for prayers. I have received a line from there within two or three days, informing me that backsliders are being reclaimed, sinners converted, and a number waiting to be baptized. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.3
In this place the prospect is encouraging. Last Sabbath the meeting was holden in the Town Hall, and although the day was stormy, yet the Hall was judged to be half filled during the day, and in the evening it was thought there were a 1000 present, who were attentive to hear upon the subject of the “glorious appearing of the Great God, and our Savior Jesus Christ.” HST January 3, 1844, page 163.4
I never enjoyed myself better, neither has my faith in the doctrine I have proclaimed for the last two years, ever been stronger. I am encouraged to go forward in laboring for the conversion of sinners, both in the professed church and out of it, believing there will be salvation in Jesus, till the seventh angel shall begin to sound, and then the mystery of God shall be finished. One great reason why I thought to go west, was because I concluded the people in New England had heard so much on the subject of Christ’s coming, they had become hardened, and I would go where they had not heard. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.5
But I am satisfied from what I have felt and seen for a few weeks past that something can yet be done, should time continue a few weeks longer. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.6
Oh! that all who are looking for the speedy coming of the Lord Jesus, would truly spend and be spent, in trying to save souls from the wrath to come. More than ever do I realize the nearness of that day, and the consequences attending it. May God revive us all to do his holy will, and preserve us blameless unto the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Yours, patiently waiting to be called to my steady glorious, EVERLASTING HOME. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.7
T. M. Preble.
Manchester, Dec. 21, 1843.
JVHe
Dear Brother Bliss:—When brother Collins came to Warehouse Point to preach on this subject, I had an interview with him, and soon became convinced that had I read my Bible as duty required, I should not have thought this a strange doctrine: I felt the truth; and soon sold my creeds and commentaries for what they would bring, and took the Bible for my creed. From that time to the meeting of our conference, I labored chiefly in Connecticut, and witnessed the conversion of hundreds of souls. Our conference met in June last. I was present with them; they treated me kindly, and passed my character without censure. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.8
I concluded to take an appointment, and was stationed at South Glastenbury, Ct., where I have labored for a few months. I however had not been long at Glastenbury, before I felt that my faith and practice did not agree; I believed that probation would close the present year; and still confined my labors to one parish. My soul was in trouble. I much regreted that I had taken an appointment. I called upon the Lord, he gave me no peace. I came to the resolution that I would break away from every influence that hindered my acting according to the dictates of conscience. I am now one of the outcasts of Israel, but glory to God in the highest, I feel no condemnation. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.9
I have had an intercourse with brother Hawley at Cabotville; I thought him very clear on the doctrine that the world would end with Daniel’s visions; but he doubted the end of those visions before ‘47. I did not know but it was so; I have since that time had an interview with brother Whiting on that subject, who seems to be a critic in the Hebrew, and am satisfied that no criticism on the word, midst of the week, will be sufficient to show that the 2300 days will not expire the present year: However, brother Hawley is a close reasoner, and I will read with attention what he may offer on that subject. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.10
I find the truth to be very unwelcome in this community. I expect to spend next Sabbath at Woodstock, and then visit Union, and Southbridge; and then, if time continue, I think I shall go to the south or west. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.11
My dear brethren and sisters, I beseech you by all that is blessed to hold fast the profession of your faith; Jesus will soon come. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.12
M. Stoddard. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.13
Eastport, Ct., Dec. 7th, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.14
A Letter, to brother Chapman of Hartford, from a little girl seven years of age, who experienced religion at the Advent Camp-meeting in Newington, Ct. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.15
Dear Brother Chapman:—My heart is pained within me to think of your long absence; the hope that we are looking for Christ fills my heart with joy, and spreads the balm of Gilead over my soul, that men cannot give nor take away; if they take away our lives, they cannot separate our communion with God. Mrs. Rice is dead: it is a sorrowful thought; but still we need not sorrow as those that have no hope in Christ; there is something sweet in death to God’s dear children that the wicked will not taste of. I knew you had faith in my prayers, and I have prayed in faith that you might have good luck. Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, wilt thou make brother Chapman to have a good luck in leading sinners forward for prayers to the Lord to be converted, tell them to let go of the world if they want Christ for their friend, for he was not of the world, they cannot find him with the world in their hearts. Write me a letter as soon as you get this. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.16
Though trials may await you,
The crown before you lies,
Take courage brother Chapman,
And you will win the prize.
Emily Dean.
Hartford, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.17
“As to me,” said Martin Luther, “I do not cease my cry of ‘The Gospel! the Gospel!—Christ! Christ!’ and my enemies are as ready with their answer,—‘Custom! custom!—Ordinances! ordinances!—Fathers! fathers!’ ‘That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,’ says St. Paul; and by this thunder-clap from heaven he overturns and disperses, as the wind scatters the dust, all the foolish thoughts of men.” HST January 3, 1844, page 163.18
Financial Statistics of the Church of Rome.—An English paper calculates that the Romish clergy in Ireland, receive upwards of 7,000,000 of dollars per annum; say, 1,500,000 for confession, 150,000 for christenings, 300,000 for unctions and burials, 1,800,000 for marriages, 500,000 for purgatory prayers, 2,500,000 for collections at chapels. Out of such taxes the clergy are paid, churches repaired, and all provisions made for public religious service. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.19
Soliman-Pacha had received orders to re-organize the Egyptian army, and was expected to march without delay against Achmet-Pacha. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.20
If it be true that the Porte has recognized the latter as the governor of Soudan, discussions of the gravest character cannot fail to arise between it and Mehemet-Ali, and all the intricasies of the Oriental question will necessarily be revived.—J. Com. HST January 3, 1844, page 163.21
JVHe
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, JANUARY 3, 1844.
All communications for the Signs of the Times, or orders for Books or remittances, should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass,” post paid. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.1
Post Masters are authorized by the Post Office Department to forward free of expense all orders for, or to discontinue publications, and also money to pay for the same HST January 3, 1844, page 164.2
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 3, 1844, page 164.3
JVHe
The silent revolution of the wheels of time, in their onward progress towards the ocean of eternity, has brought us to another of those great land marks, which are, as it were, set up at regular intivals from Adam’s fall to the removal of the curse. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.4
At the commencement of the past year, we regarded it as more than probable, that ere the present time, the Lord would have gathered his true Israel, and given them the promised land. We however find ourselves still waiting for the coming kingdom. Although the Jewish year is not ended, yet we are like one of the Atlantic steamers fifteen days at sea. It may not therefore be amiss in us to examine our reckoning, and ascertain our true position. When one of the Atlantic steamers sails, from Liverpool for this port, they calculate on a voyage of from twelve to fourteen days. At the earliest period when they may expect to reach their port, they examine their reckoning, and keep a continual and sharp look out for land. If however they do not reach their desired haven at the expected time, do they turn back? No. Knowing their port must be just ahead, and that their course has, been continually towards it, although their reckoning is up, they sail boldly onward, in continual expectations of land. When Columbus was sailing due west in search of a New World, he expected to find land long before he did; and when his men almost mutined, his faith failed not; for he knew by the floating sea weed, and other signs, that land must be near; and as the evidences thickened, he kept a man at the mast head, continually on the look-out, till the land appeared. This then is what we are to do when similarly situated; and like them we shall in due season enter into our rest, if we faint not. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.5
Let us therefore in this matter act as rational beings act respecting any event in life, when satisfied of the correctness of their position: persevere to the end. The doctrine of a temporal millennium has been shivered to the winds, and shown to have no foundation in the scriptures. The precious promises which have in times past been adduced in support of that theory, have been demonstrated to have reference only to the new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness, which, restored to its Eden state, is to be the eternal residence of those who attain unto the first resurrection. We have demonstrated that the only restoration of Israel yet future, is that which will be consummated when the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord; when all Israel, the full number of the Jews and the full number of the Gentiles, constituting the whole house of Israel, shall be gathered in and saved; when God will open their graves, take them up out of their graves, place his spirit within them, and they shall live in the land which God has premised to our father Abraham, forever and ever. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.6
These being thus proved, there remains no unfulfilled prophecy, only such as has respect to the final consummation and subsequent events; with nothing to delay the coming of Christ. We therefore have a continued chain of fulfilled prophecies, reaching to the present moment, in the past; and the predictions which have reference to the scenes of the judgment, as the next in the future; and this fact alone would be sufficient to warrant us in keeping a man at the mast head to mark the first appearance of land. This fact alone, independant of all chronology, would be sufficient to induce us to press forward towards the end of our voyage, till we enter the desired haven. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.7
We have however more decisive tokens of the nearness of that event. All the foretold signs of the approach of that day, have been seen in the moral, political, and physical world; and they have been hung out in the heavens, so that we know, as we were commanded to by our Savior, that the generation which witnessed the darkening of the Sun in 1780,—63 years since, will not all pass away, until all these things be accomplished. And as we see the little remnant of that former age dropping away one after another, we are admonished that the last sands of time are fast running out, and that any moment may usher in eternal realities. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.8
We have also reached that circle of time, within which, the prophetic periods all appear to terminate. We have weighed well, and carefully, and prayerfully the evidences which mark the commencement and end of the prophetic periods; we find a consistent and harmonious termination of them all about the Jewish year 1843. We can find no error in our calculations; our opponents have been unable, with all their skill and tact, and shrewdness, to point out any; their arguments have been shown to be the veriest sophisms, and we are fully satisfied that no man can begin to show even a plausible argument to extend any of these periods beyond about this time. We can therefore, as honest men, do nothing less than to continue our course as we have begun. We are satisfied of the correctness of our course, of our proximity to the port, and of the reality of the approaching events. We shall therefore continue on, full in the faith, patiently waiting, earnestly desiring, and continually expecting the appearing of the Lord. We shall also continue to proclaim the Master’s approach, to warn the world of its danger, and to exhort them to be also ready, until he shall appear. Be ye also ready, for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not; and take heed to yourselves lest at any time your hearts be over charged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares; but watch ye therefore, and pray always that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.9
While we would exhort all to prepare for the coming of Christ, we would also exhort them to be faithful stewards over God’s heritage, to occupy till Christ come, and do good as you have opportunity. Let none fold their arms and sit down in ignoble ease, for your work is not done till the Lord shall gather his elect. Let all who have a gift to teach, instruct those who are perishing for lack of vision; and let all others improve the talents and means which God has given them, to the noblest purposes. Idleness is a sin in the sight of God; and we are therefore to be continually giving the household such meat as we have in due season; and blessed is he who shall be found so doing. Then if we are at our work on the housetop, in the field, or in the mill, if we are travelling by the way, in the cars or stage, or if we are proclaiming, behold the Bride groom cometh, go ye out to meet him, we shall be ready to ascend to meet our Lord in the air. Let us therefore not sleep as do others, but let us watch and be sober, for Jesus testifieth, “Surely I come quickly. Amen, even so come Lord Jesus.” HST January 3, 1844, page 164.10
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St Louis.—Bro. H. A. Chittenden writes:—We have succeeded much beyond our expectations in this city. The Lord has blessed the truth to many souls, and many are anxious for their eternal welfare. Some who have been infidels for years, have bowed to the majesty of truth, and the prospect is that a great work is commenced, which, with the continued blessing of God, we trust will end in the salvation of many. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.11
Lockport.—Bro. E. C. Galusha writes:—We are destitute of laborers in this whole region. Many important places, such as Ithaca, Canandagua, etc., are crying loudly for lecturers. There are open houses and loud calls in every direction. The cry is, come over and help us. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.12
Lowell, Ms.—Bro. J. J. Porter writes:—There is considerable interest in this city. On Sunday twenty came forward for prayers, HST January 3, 1844, page 164.13
Westminster, Ms.—Bro. Fitts writes us that the Lord is at work in that place. The number of believers increases almost daily; and those who have opposed are embracing the faith. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.14
Montreal.—Bro. R. Hutchinson is doing all he can in this field of labor. He is a talented and efficient lecturer, and has done much for the spread of the cause. He has just published another pamphlet of 48 pages, entitled “The throne of Judah perpetuated in Christ.” It goes over the whole ground of the kingdom of God on earth, lost in Adam and recovered in Christ. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.15
West Hartford, Vt.—Brother N. Dutton writes us that he is laboring in that field, and with good success. Some souls are being born again. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.16
Buflalo, N. Y.—Mr. Miller has just closed his lectures in that place. He lectured with great effect to crowded audiences. The last night of his lectures, 2000 went away unable to procure seats. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.17
Halifax, Nova Scotia.—Bro. John Craig writes from that place that he is giving the cry. He begins to feel encouraged, some who opposed the strongest at first, now admit he has the Bible on his side. He writes for help, being alone there. We have furnished him with a box of books for that region. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.18
New Bedford, Ms.—Bro. F. G. Brown writes that they have had some blessed meetings there, with good audiences. HST January 3, 1844, page 164.19
Sturbridge, Ms.—Bro. H. N. Drake writes us:— There is a band of dear brethren and sisters here whose sympathies you have, a band who appear to love the appearing of their dear Lord, and are trying, with their lamps trimmed and burning, with oil in their vessels, and with their loins girt about HST January 3, 1844, page 164.20
“To watch and pray and travel over
Till Jesus conies to call us home.” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.1
Vergennes, Vt.—Bro. C. Wines writes that he is strong in the faith that the coming of the Lord is at the doors, and adds, “and there are many more in this vicinity of like precious faith.” He says: “Our greatest trouble and cause of grief, is the professed Christian Church and ministry, who seem to say, ‘art thou come hither to torment us, before our time.’” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.2
Springfield, Vt.—Bro. J. H. Shipman will remain there a season. He says, “Our meetings are well attended, and I never saw people more attentive to hear, than those of this place are now.” We see by the fruits that we have some real friends in that village. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.3
West Randolph, Vt.—Bro. J. D. Marsh is now stopping in this place ready to attend to any calls for lectures as the doors may open. He writes that there is a band of brethren strong in the faith, who are determined to look for the Lord until he shall come into his kingdom. Bro. Marsh has labored since the 12th of Oct. in Castleton, Vt., Salem, N. Y., Concord, Vt., Pittsfield, Exeter, and Harvard, N. H., Lowell, Kensington, Boston, Roxbury, and Randolph, Ms., etc., and has again returned to his family in West Randolph, Vt. He has given us an interesting account of his labors and successes in the above places, the length of which prevents our giving it in full. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.4
Bro. J. S. White will preach in Kingston, Mass., on the first sabbath in January. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.5
The hearers of the word of the kingdom. Those who have heard the word of the kingdom and received it gladly, are often surprised that others should not receive it with the same joy as themselves; and they have been pained to see those they love turn away from these things finding in this view of the kingdom nothing that they should desire to attain unto it at the sacrifice of all things. Our Savior, however, in the parable of the sower, explains the reason of this. He there gives the four different kinds of hearers who would hear this word. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.6
The first are those who hear and understand not. Of such he says, Matthew 13:19,“When any one heareth the word of the kingdom and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he that receiveth seed by the way-side.” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.7
The second class are those who have no root in themselves. Of those, he said, 20, 21, vs. “but he that received the seed in stony places, the same is he that heareth the word (of the kingdom,) and anon with joy receiveth it: yet he had not root in himself, but endureth for a while; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word (of the kingdom,) by and by he is offended.” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.8
The third class are they who are unfruitful. Of those our Savior says, 22nd verse, “He also that received seed among the thorns, is he that heareth the word (of the kingdom;) and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word (of the kingdom,) and he becometh unfruitful.” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.9
There is, however, another class, who understand this word of the kingdom when they hear it. Of these, our Savior says, 23rd verse, “But he that received seed into the good ground, is he that heareth the word (of the kingdom) and UNDERSTAND ETH it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty.” And 52,“Every Scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven, is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old.” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.10
We are to consider the difference of the soil on which the seed is sown, and then we shall not be surprised if some wither away, are choked with thorns, or understand not. But we should the more rejoice, that so many understand the word of the kingdom and bring forth fruit; while so few arc choked with thorns. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.11
To Correspondents. A communication has been received applying the first chap. of Habakkuk to America. We can see no foundation for the application. It is expressly applied to the Chaldeans; and to apply it otherwise would make prophecy indefinite. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.12
We have received a long communication from Portland showing that the 2300 days terminated about 1843, independant of the time of the crucifixtion in the last week; but as we have presented so much on this point within a few weeks, it might not be interesting to our readers at present. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.13
Brother Fitch. We learn by the Second Advent paper published at Cleaveland, that brother Fitch has been afflicted by the death of his little son William, the 5th ult. aged about seven years. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.14
This is a severe blow to brother Fitch, whose children are very dear to him. He, however, has committed him to the earth, with the full assurance of soon meeting him in the resurrection of the just. He has the pleasing hope that his little son at the early age of three years, embraced the Lord as his Savior, since which, his faith has never wavered. He was resigned during his sickness, had his senses to the last, knew he was dying, composed himself, closed his own eyes, and died with as much calmness as he would have gone to his pillow for a nights repose. Brother Fitch says, HST January 3, 1844, page 165.15
He was not without the follies and faults of childhood, but we do believe that he lived and died with confidence in Christ, and we cannot doubt that the blessed Savior is indeed Willie’s Savior. O it is hard, when we have loved and cherished our children, until they have become intertwined with every fibre of our hearts, to see them lie down and suffer until life’s last spring is crushed by an insupportable load of agony. Our hearts are aching, bleeding. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.16
Brother Fitch then speaks of his late labors, he says,— HST January 3, 1844, page 165.17
It is a good while since our friends at the East have had any account of my labors. In the month of September, I spent some time at Oberlin, doing what I could to hold up the truth. But at the Oberlin brethren I was grieved beyond measure. might have expected from others what the cause of truth has received from them, but from them I certainly did not expect such things, after their high professions of entire consecration in all things to God. I have never seen the glorious truths of the Bible, touching the kingdom and coming of Christ, met with more determined opposition, contempt and scorn than they have been by the Oberlin Faculty; and never, in all my life, have I felt such anguish at my heart’s core, or shed such bitter, burning, tears as I have at their rejection of the word of the Lord. But the more I have endeavored to hold up the truth to them, the more strenuously they have opposed it, and the more unjustly they have charged me for my endeavors to do them good; actuated only by an irresistible conviction of duty to God. I pray that they may find mercy from the Lord in that day. At Lower Sandusky, about the 1st of November, I had a delightful season. The Spirit descended upon us, sinners were awakened, and several professed they had found peace with God. At Norwalk, I felt that God was as truly with me as on any occasion in my life, but of results, I cannot speak. There is a goodly band of firm believers there, and some truly efficient and munificent helpers in the spread of the truth. There are several other places in that county which I am desired to visit, and shall endeavor to do so if the Lord permits. To-day I have had a request to visit Cincinnati, but cannot tell what I shall be able to do. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.18
I am still aided in my travels by the dear brother who rendered me such efficient help the last winter. All his heart, and all he has, is in the glorious cause of the Lord’s appearing. Another brother at Norwalk, by great liberality, has added much to my comfort in traveling. Yours, saying as ever with my whole heart, Come, Lord Jesus. C. Fitch. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.19
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Departed this life after a long and distressing illness, Brother John Caverly, aged 45 years. He has been a believer in Jesus Christ by the Holy-Ghost for more than twenty years, and for more than one year in his return to this Earth this present Bible year. That religion that was dearer to him than life supported him in death, caused him to die in peace and sleep in Jesus, with the blessed hope of the Tabernacle of God soon being with men, when he with the glorified millions, who have sealed their testimonies with their blood, should awake in his likeness. O Glory to God for the religion of the once Babe of Bethlehem who now inhabits eternity, who was our Prophet, is our Priest. and soon will be our King immortal. Sermon by the writer, 2 Timothy 4-6. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. Likewise Dorothy, daughter of John and Dorothy Caverly, aged 14 years, who after following the remains of her dear father to the lonely grave on Sunday, was taken on Monday with the throat distemper; and on the 7th Dec. fell a prey to death; she was a very remarkable youth, professed religion about 4 years ago, and since that time to her death adorned her early profession by a well ordered life and Godly conversation. Her little soul was frequently filled to overflowing with the blessed hope of seeing in 1843 him who had redeemed her soul, not by silver or gold, but by his precious blood. She was baptized last winter by the writer, and the first words she uttered when out of the water were, I am now ready sec Jesus. Glory to God that it is our privilege to have a knowledge of our acceptance with God. Sermon by the writer, from Revelation 14:13. Christian Herald and Morning Star, please copy. William Thompson. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.20
New Durham, Dec. 13th, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 165.21
Execution of a Priest. A Paris paper says:—“According to letters from Rome, the priest Abbo was executed there on the morning of the 4th of October, and the Pontifical Government was in so much dread of public exasperation on the occasion, that the execution did not take place in the town, but in the Castle of Angelo. Almost the whole garrison was under arms. The Pope had left on the 2nd for the Villa of Castel Grandalfo, where he was to remain eight or ten days.” HST January 3, 1844, page 165.22
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The Conference which has been in progress here for the last four days, has been a good time to the believers. The Lord was indeed with us; many believers were here from the neighboring towns, and we can truly say, the saints were quickened, and their faith in creased; and even expressed their full confidence that the Lord was very nigh even at the doors. Sabbath afternoon, we had a communion season; from one hundred and fifty to two hundred communicants were present, expecting that this might be the last time they should so shew forth the Lord’s death till he come. It was indeed a time of deep interest. Let God be glorified for all these precious privileges which we enjoy on this earth. It is no time to sleep when almost at the judgment. I find those believers who have come out of the sects in obedience to the voice of God, and stand by simple faith, are strong, and growing stronger daily in the Lord, and their peace is like a river, while those who hold on are weak and puny. So I would say, heed the cry, come out, be separate, be the Lord’s free men, and you shall be free indeed. The notice of this meeting being so limited as to prevent many who were desirous of attending, therefore with united voices we concluded to adjourn till the first Friday in Feb., if time continues; when we hope our brethren will come up in the name of the Lord of hosts, expecting a time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. Thy brother in hope of soon seeing the Savior. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.1
L. Boutell
Groton. Dec. 11, 1843.
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Brother Bliss:—For the encouragement of those who are looking for and love the appearing of our blessed Lord, permit me to say, through the Signs of the Times, that my late visit to Albany and Boston, served in no small degree to confirm my mind on two very important points, viz.; that our cause is the Lord’s own cause, and will therefore speedily triumph; and that our opponents have no better arguments with which to oppose it, than contumely and misrepresentation. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.2
I was credibly informed, that one of the professedly knowing ones in this place, in a church meeting a few weeks since, among other similar expressions, said that,” the Millerites were every where, excepting in this place, giving up their faith;” that “Millerism was stewed down to a pint, and that the church at Union Mills must drink its last dregs.” This is only a sample, as near as I can learn, of what is said in very many places, where the Advent cause is established. It seems that our opposers having been so long in the habit of estimating their strength according to their numbers, they really think if they can make their Advent brethren believe that their numbers are small, they will for this reason abandon their blessed hope; but this is a mistake; for our faith stands not in multitudes, but in the strength of God’s word. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.3
For one I can say that I have never been more grounded in the faith of the coming of the Lord at the end of the 2300 days, which evidently terminate next March; and so far as I know, this is the case with all in this place and elsewhere, who have like precious faith. I found it so in Albany; a more devoted band of brethren I never met with. Their meetings are well attended every evening, and on Sabbath days at the house of prayer, and many are daily rejoicing in the full hope of soon seeing their glorious Lord. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.4
In Boston I found the cause more prosperous than I had anticipated. Perhaps there is not a larger congregation in the city than meet at the Tabernacle. Their prayer meetings are frequent, orderly, spiritual, and highly interesting. A more heavenly communion I never enjoyed, than the one I attended in the Tabernacle. It was thought there were five hundred communicants who were confidently expecting soon to eat and drink with their Lord in his glorious and everlasting kingdom. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.5
I found Bro. Himes indefatigable in his labors, in the pulpit, the prayer meeting, and office of the Signs of the Times. But few if any men are capable of doing more. Good order reigns in every department over which he presides. Strict economy, commendable liberality, untiring perseverence, with sound discretion, mark his course, and I feel the fullest assurance in saying, that the glory of God is the ultimate object of all his labors. I speak this not by way of flattery; for this I hate; but knowing that the degraded press and pulpits of our country have left no means untried to sink into disrepute the Advent cause, by impugning the motives and honesty of brother Himes, and by circulating the most ridiculous reports about our brethren, and the Tabernacle in Boston, I felt it due to the cause at large, to say what I have. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.6
I have had some very serious reflections of late, my brother, on the present duty of those who fully believe in the coming of the Lord near. There are many of this faith who stand connected with churches, and are still giving their influence and support, at least in part, to those very ministers, churches, and papers which warmly oppose this most glorious truth. Is this right? Is it consistent with our faith? I cannot think it is. Our faith and works should harmonize. If we believe the present church organizations, the ministry, and the press, are opposing the truth, we should not lend our influence, or aid in any way to assist in carrying on that opposition. He that is not for me, says Christ, is against me. They are not for Christ who oppose his coming at any time. Our duty therefore seems plain to me, that our entire influence and support should be withdrawn from all, and every opposing interest to the coming of the Lord near, and given to sustain and further this despised, yet blessed cause. It is evidently as much our duty now to come out of Babylon, as it was for Lot to flee from Sodom. on the morning before its overthrow. I am aware that by some this will be called ultraism, come-outism, or some other ism; but what of that? we should not seek to please men, but God. If he has told us to come out of Babylon, I do not know how we can be saved from the doom that awaits her, unless we obey his imperative command. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.7
At this important crisis, when the weak need to be made strong, and the strong strengthened, we should do all we can to aid in strengthening one another. If there is an Advent meeting convenient for us to attend, we should be sure and attend it in preference to any other. If we have any thing to give for the support of the ministry, bestow it on those who are proclaiming the coming of the heavenly Bridegroom. If we have any thing to impart for the spread of the truth, be sure and not give it for the propagation of the fables and traditions of men, but for the spread of the glad tidings of the kingdom at hand. And if we have a dollar to spare for a religious paper, give it for the Signs of the Times, the Midnight Cry, or some Advent paper, if we have not already done it; and if we have, order another or more for the benefit of those who are unable to spend a dollar for one of these valuable heralds of truth. In this way we can and should serve God with our substance as well as with our lips—prove a lasting blessing to others, and secure a rich and eternal reward in the everlasting kingdom of God. Finally, let us hope, and do unto the end of the days; for the vision is sure, it will not tarry. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.8
Union Mills, N. Y. Dec. 11, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.9
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Dear Brother Himes:—One year has now nearly completed its revolution, since you and brother Miller gave a course of lectures in this city, on the second coming of Christ. And you are, perhaps, in some measure aware of the blessings which under God resulted from your labors of love among us at that time; but the whole amount of good affected through your instrumentality can only be unfolded in that day when the secrets of all hearts shall be made known. Many who then “received the word gladly,” are still firm and unwavering in the faith once delivered to the saints; and are waiting for the speedy revelation of Jesus from heaven; while some have become cold and in different. But so far as my knowledge extends, none who then received the truth either in whole or in part, have become “scoffers;” but their coldness, in my opinion, is owing in a great measure to a want of that kind of preaching which is calculated to produce in the soul a love for the “glorious appearing of the great God, and our Savior Jesus Christ.” This want has been seriously felt by us all. We have made several efforts to procure a lecturer, but have hitherto failed; and I have been induced by the suggestion of some of the brethren, to write to you with the confident expectation that you would interest yourself in our behalf, and use your influence to procure for us a lecturer who can do justice to the subject. Such a brother would be cordially received among us, and his temporal wants abundantly supplied. Yours in the hope of the gospel. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.10
Vergennes, Dec. 7th, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 166.11
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Bro. J. D. Boyer, of that city, writes: HST January 3, 1844, page 166.12
“God is still with his people. The brethren in this city are strong in the faith, looking for the speedy appearing of the Lord. Our congregations are large and attentive. The Second Advent cause in this city has never been so prosperous as at the present time. The West is stretching out its hands for help; and there are many places that want help; they must have the cry. We are still extending the glorious news of the speedy coming of the Lord. Bro. Jacobs arrived here on Sunday evening, Dec. 4th; that evening 22 came forward for prayers, and on Monday evening 12. Several were hopefully converted on Tuesday and Wednesday. The meetings are increasing in interest in this city, and not dying away. My heart is in the cause, my faith is strong, and I expect to see my dear Lord this year, his present Jewish year. My prayer is, come, Lord Jesus, come quickly.” HST January 3, 1844, page 166.13
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It has been my lot, during the part summer and fall, to meet in Conference with my dear Advent brethren and sisters, in different places; and notwithstanding the power of God has been displayed to some extent, still there has been manifestly cause of grief, in view of the spirit which has crept into the hearts of some of the dear children of God; viz. that the time has passed by when we are to expect great things done in the cause of God; save to strengthen the minds of the believers. The thought is a painful one, and one which to my mind cannot be founded upon the word of God. The commission was, “go ye therefore and teach all nations, etc.; and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” And if Jesus is with us, cannot sinners be saved, when he has promised in John 14:12, that we should do greater works because he has gone to his Father. Where, between the two lids of the Bible, can we find any liberty to limit the Almighty, by saying that no souls can be saved, while Jesus sits as Mediator. God does not trifle with the sons of men, by showing them their condition, while he is unwilling to save. The proof is right before the eyes of multitudes in our land and world, that sinners of the most hardened kind are feeling their lost condition; and may God grant that his children may remember that he is the same yesterday, today, and forever. It is true that the sinner has often been melted down under the influence of the Spirit, consequently, as the iron becomes hard by fusion, so the heart has become exceeding hard by repeated operations of the Spirit; but remember the promise is, that as thy day is so shall thy strength be. The doctrine of the Advent of our dear Savior this Jewish year, is no doubt a doctrine of the Bible; which truth has a tendency to a just walk before God; and if a just walk, we shall love our neighbor as our selves, which will lead us to agonize before the throne of God for their immortal souls. It appears to me that the adversary sees that the glorious doctrine of the Advent has a tendency to cause importunity on the part of those who are looking for their Lord; and in order to defeat their efforts, has thrown this soul-damning principle into the heart, in order to paralize their strength. He knows that if he should come right out plain, and tell them that God’s work would be revived by and by, that it would be so plain a case that every Advent child would clearly view it as from the devil; therefore he comes with the argument that God’s spirit shall not always strive with man; implying (if I may be allowed the expression) that God’s patience is exhausted; and of course there is no propriety in the Christian disturbing the mind; hut be submissive to the will of heaven. At the same time he withholds the fact that while Jesus sits as Mediator, he wants his children to work; and what is the work of the followers of Christ, if it is not to convert sinners. May God grant that his children may examine closely, and try the spirits, and see that they do not yield to the temptations of the devil, and thereby rob God and their own souls. In view of the shortness of time, how ought every energy of the soul to be exercised in striving to pull sinners out of the fire, before that awful day of sorrow and darkness to the sinner shall burst upon the world. Yours in the blessed hope of soon seeing Jesus in the clouds of heaven. E. W. HST January 3, 1844, page 167.1
Underhill, Dec. 11th, 1843. HST January 3, 1844, page 167.2
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We cut the following from the London Herald. HST January 3, 1844, page 167.3
“The bitter, grinding, and increasing poverty of the industrious classes, is the disease of the United Kingdom. “Poverty is Becca,” said a hard-working Welshman the other day; and poverty is chartism, poverty is repeal agitation, poverty is anti-corn-law fury. Ireland is afflicted, reported in 1836 the commissioners appointed to inquire into the condition of its poorer classes, with 2,285,000 destitute human beings. In England, stated Sir James Graham, last session of parliament, there were then 1,200,000 persons receiving parochial relief, to which may be added at least an equal number of unrelieved cases of semi-starvation. And the condition of the poorer classes in the large towns of Scotland is rapidly becoming, Dr. Allison assures us, Irishized; and so distressing is the general state of the working people in Scotland, that a compulsory poor law is an evil impending over that country. And yet, in spite of all this poverty and misery, our population increases at the rate of about 800 souls a day, and year after year matters become worse, instead of better.” HST January 3, 1844, page 167.4
But this is not half the picture—it is but the frame work. Here is the filling up:— HST January 3, 1844, page 167.5
“But he must be a very superficial observer, and a very thoughtless politician, who estimate the wretchedness of the United Kingdom by statistics or statements of destitution such as these; they are but the crying out evils—the obvious, patent, and disgusting sores; on their broad foundation must be heaped the constant struggles for life of the industrious and willing and partially employed, who won’t waste an hour in contending for a loaf of bread or onion skillagalee with hoards of guardians—the spasmodic competition of the half educated for employment—the ill-remunerated efforts of the petty tradesman and capital-less shopkeeper, to obtain food and raiment for his household, and rent for his landlord—the crowds of half-famished tutors and teachers of either sex—and the incalculable, but untold sufferings of young women, thrown at an early age on their needles for—not maintainance, but existence—suffering from which our streets swarm with prostitution in its most offensive and hideous forms, and which al most make the sale of female virtue the price of self-preservation. The streets of London are becoming in the day what the saloons of our theatres once were; while in the evening our greater thoroughfares are one enormous brothel. HST January 3, 1844, page 167.6
Look, too, at the state in this respect of our provincial towns; the vice which a few years ago was a hidden or subsidiary occupation, is now an established trade, openly pursued, tolerated, and relied on for debauched support. The subject will not bear discussion, and yet it is one of the most fatal symptoms of our national disease. Talk not of the vice in Paris; it is virtue and decency when compared to English obscenity and brutal importunity; like the corruption of Marie Antoinette’s court’ ‘it loses half its evil by loosing all its grossness.’ HST January 3, 1844, page 167.7
After going on in a similar strain, the Herald writes as follows:— HST January 3, 1844, page 167.8
“Oh! we may be told ‘poverty shall never cease out of the land;’ true, most true, but the poverty we complain of, is very likely to make the land cease; the poverty we point to is rapidly bringing millions to the conviction that revolution would be to them a blessed change; the poverty we refer to is quickly paganising large classes of the community. It is a poverty which cannot be left to neglect—eleemosynary relief—to the poor laws—to Young England Monasteries—to political economy, with safety. It is a poverty which no property, on historic renown, no amount of national greatness, no extent of exterual territorial developements can compensate for. It is a poverty which is making the people savage; is bringing the monarchy into contempt; is destroying hope; is promoting turbulence; and is fomenting a spirit of disorder— HST January 3, 1844, page 167.9
“Unkind, already; and estranged in part,
The wolf begins to share their wandering heart.” HST January 3, 1844, page 167.10
Good God! can any man think of last year’s outbreaks in the manufactoring districts, of contemporaneous disorders in Wales, and of present and unfinished agitation in Ireland, and then coolly satisfy himself with the sacred quotation, ‘Poverty shall never cease out of the land.’ From the conflicts in Lancasshire, from the hills in Wales, and from the monster meetings in Ireland, the same cry was to be heard—‘We are perishing in the midst of plenty; we are starving in spite of abundance.’” HST January 3, 1844, page 167.11
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Bro. Himes.:— HST January 3, 1844, page 167.12
I am happy to inform you, we received the box of books safe; they are a treasure indeed to us; as they not only assist us in paying up our arrears with our printer, but furnish us with the means of stopping the mouths of some of our opponents, who say there are no men of talent who believe these things. HST January 3, 1844, page 167.13
We know not how to thank you sufficiently for the books; your kindness has surpassed our expectations; the best return we can make is to pray for the prosperity of the truths you are so anxious to disseminate among men. We have sent some to Norfolk, Suffolk, Shrewsbury, and other parts, and a large bundle to Winter and Burgess, as they have opportnnity of distributing a good number. We have also sent a set to Mr. Pym, and one to Mr. Habershon, begging Mr. H. to write by the same steamer that this will go in. He has seen your letter, and sent me a vol. of his work on prophecy. He expects great events to take place soon; but is not clear as are the American Advent works. HST January 3, 1844, page 167.14
We are highly favored in having so much of the truth in our houses. It is with gratitude we acknowledge the receipt of your letter, and we feel with you, to submit to the will of God in this matter, as it appears his will that I we should be deprived of your labors in connection with others; we have been expecting to see you, and have felt the deepest anxiety for our expectations to be realized; but the will of our Father must be done. It would have been heart cheering to us, if we had been favored by seeing you here, for our profit and encouragement; but this is not the chief object in view; it is the love we feel for those who arc blind, and led by those who will not see. Those who see the truths of the Bible, are kept back and prevented from walking in the church. The minds of the people are also prejudiced against them; if one is looking for the Master’s return, his fellow servants fall upon him and beat him HST January 3, 1844, page 167.15
When Advent friends call upon us, the subject of the cause in America is often the subject of conversation, and is followed by the general lamentation, O that some of those men had come here, and God would soon have raised them funds. Those who are looking for the Lord, cannot assemble with the public congregation, to hear such fleshly preaching; it is heart-sickening; I loathe it. I feel jealous for God’s glory; and when I hear it, it not only pains my mind, but makes me sick, and my feelings are indescribable. But praise God, it is not all discouraging; the books are silently working their way more effectually than ever among all classes. We often hear of good done by them from parts we little expected. Many are in expectation of some great event about to take place. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.1
Br. Ronton has labored with good success in Leicester; he thinks of travelling with Winter or Burgess; they want more help; they are greatly encouraged lately with the success the Lord has blessed them with. Br. Gunner from New York is in London; I hope his labors will be blessed by God. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.2
My love to all the dear friends whom I expect soon to meet where pain and sorrow will never enter. “O glorious hope, O blest above, we shall be near and like our God.” The friends here unite with me in love to them all I remain yours in hope. E. Lloyd. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.3
No Authorcode
BOSTON, JAN. 3, 1843.
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I wish to make a brief statement to the friends and supporters of the Advent cause. I do not wish at all to obtrude myself upon their notice. But having devoted my entire time and eneregies to the advent for the last three years, and having received the countenance, and cordial co-operation of so many thousands throughout the country, a statement of facts relating to the state of my affairs is due to them. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.4
From the beginning of the work of distribution, it has been our aim to publish and distribute according to our means. Where we have been short of funds, a curtailment has been made for the time; when the receipts have warranted, the distribution has been enlarged in proportion. For the last eight months our receipts for sales and donations have been limited. But having made preparation for the year 1843 for general distribution so far as practicable, over the globe, we have been able to meet the calls every where so far. The calls have been numerous, and none have been turned away empty. The Western States have now received over $2500 in publications and money from my office, independant of receipts; Canada East, and West, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick have been supplied, England, also, with every part of the Globe that we have been able to reach, have been liberally supplied with our largest and best publications. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.5
The amount distributed beyond all receipts has been considerable. I have now done about all that I can do without further aid. I have no wish to go further, unless it be the will of GOD. If any further assistance should be given, it will be applied in the best manner possible for the advancement of the general cause. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.6
We wish to make one more effort to call the public attention to the practical duties arising out of the circumstauces into which we are now cast. The advent of the LORD is right upon us. All our efforts now should tend to prepare for this solemn event. To this end I purpose to issue a million or more of little tracts of a particular character, to cost from two cents to one mill apiece. These will be furnished to all our Depots where brethren wishing to aid in the circulation can get them. There will be from twenty to thirty different numbers. A list of them will soon be given in the “Signs of the Times” and “Midnight Cry” with the prices pr. doz. 100 and 1000. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.7
The LORD in his providence furnishing ns with the means, we intend to fill the land with those swift messengers of truth. Who will help in this work? What we do must be done quickly. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.8
Joshua V. Himes
Boston, Dec. 22nd, 1843.
JVHe
The Watch Meeting at the Tabernacle on New Year’s eve was very full and interesting. The audience began to assemble at an early hour, and before the time of service, that large and commodious place of worship was well filled with an attentive and intelligent auditory. There could not have been less than 4,000 present, and large numbers went away unable to gain admittance. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.9
The services commenced with the use of the hymn, “The clouds at length are breaking!” in which a thousand voices united. Bro. S. S. Snow then addressed the throne of grace; and was followed by the use of the hymn commencing with “Lo! he comes with clouds descending.” HST January 3, 1844, page 168.10
Bro. J. E. Jones preached the first discourse on the subject of the Prophetic Periods. He was as usual clear and eloquent. He compared the bequeathment of the Savior, to a mere worldly possession; how eager to possess the latter, then how much more eager we should be to possess the former: if we were thus eager we should desire to know the time. He then went into an exposition of the 2,300 days of Daniel 8th, which he presented in a most felicitous and convincing manner. And notwithstanding so much has been said and written on this period, yet our brother demonstrated, that this portion of scripture was neither exhausted or lessened in interest. The frequent perusal of uninspired writings causes them to become stale and uninteresting; but the more frequently the scriptures are read, the more beauty and glory is seen to cluster around the sacred page: as meteors, the more they are polished, the brighter they shine; so the 8th of Daniel, respecting which it would seem nothing new could be said, yet under the skillful hand of Bro. Jones, every point seemed clothed with new and original thought, and presented the whole time with a convincing force and clearness, that it would seem none but the sceptic could gainsay or resist. He placed the crucifixion in the middle of the week, but showed that as the week began in 26-7, it could not affect the ending of the 2,300 days about A. D. 1843. His whole discourse was effective. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.11
After this discourse, was sung the hymn “Remember Lot’s wife,” when, it being about nine o’clock, the audience were dismissed with prayer by Brother Himes, with an intermission of fifteen minutes. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.12
After the intermission a crowded audience still remained. A hymn was sung. Then Bro. S. S. Snow gave an interesting account of his conversion from infidelity, to the doctrine of the Advent, by the works of Mr. Miller. It is often said that we shall make infidels, but all the evidence thus far has been to prove the reverse. Bro. Snow narrated his former views and state of mind, while an agent for, and contributing to the columns of Abner Kneelands paper, and also the change that by the grace of God his mind and heart have undergone. His remarks were listened to with almost breathless silence, and with apparently great interest and effect. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.13
Bro. Himes succeeded him, showing that we rely on the Bible alone as our rule of faith. He then went into the history of the Bible—its contents, its design, its writers, its harmony, its comprehensiveness, its predictions, their fulfilment, its Author, etc.; with a view of the past, and also of the future, the effect of the Advent faith on the heart of the believer, the extending of the cry over the world, etc. etc. He also referred to the charges of our opponents. Some charge us with extending the time; but we had never had but one time, about the Jewish year 1843: and though one brother had advocated 1847, yet he had disclaimed it. Some charged him with speculation; but he had never received a farthing from any person without giving them a full equivalent, either in publications to themselves, or by gratuitous distribution according to the wishes of the donors, as his books would show. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.14
The table of the Lord was then spread and a large number comemorated his death, which we are commanded to show forth until he come. It was a solemn and interesting season. The old year then being nearly expired, a few moments were spent in silent prayer. At twelve o’clock the Address on the first page of this paper was read by the junior editor, when the exercises closed with prayer. We intend to publish a pamphlet giving the remarks and addresses in full. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.15
Bro. C. B. Turner, of Malone, N. Y. writes, that there are several in that place looking for the coming of the Lord. The clergy, as usual, oppose them in their enquiries on this subject. He enquires, “What shall we do? Our ministers take such a course, that we cannot live as we are. I have advised all to remain as they are. But if any remedy can be devised, in which the evil will not be made worse, please advise.” HST January 3, 1844, page 168.16
We do not hesitate in such a case to advise our suffering brethren to come out from such a persecuting church, and hold meetings by themselves in peace. This is a remedy, and if good order be observed, it cannot fail to exert a good influence. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.17
Witness of the Spirit in the work of Sanctification.—Second edition, enlarged, to which is added a Scripturul View of the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, by N. Hervey. To this work is appended a Letter from Bro. G. F. Brown, on the importance of Holiness. Price 10 cents. For sale at this office. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.18
Br. Solomon Ford, of Abington, requests us to say, there will be an Advent lecture in his neighborhood, should time continue, on Thursday eve, 10th inst. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.19
Communications for Wm. H. Ireland, should be sent to Eastport, Me. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.20
Friends in the vicinity of Worcester and Hartford, who wish for the Harp, and other Advent publications, can be supplied by calling on F. E. Bigelow, Worcester, or Wm. Rogers, 4 Exchange, corner of State st. Hartford, Ct. HST January 3, 1844, page 168.21