The Content of the Paper

The articles following White's opening editorial explanation carried such titles as “The Weekly Sabbath Instituted at Creation, and Not at Sinai“: “The Sabbath a Perpetual Weekly Memorial“: “The Law of God, or the Ten Commandments“: “Scriptures Usually Quoted to Prove the Abolition of the Sabbath Examined.”1BIO 166.1

Two pages from the end of the first issue, he explained his motives, objectives, and sense of urgency in a one-column message addressed “Dear Brethren and Sisters.” Still building on the theme “present truth,” he explained and admonished:1BIO 166.2

I hope this little sheet will afford you comfort and strength. Love and duty have compelled me to send it out to you. I know you must be rooted, and built up in present truth, or you will not be able to stand “in the battle in the day of the Lord” (Ezekiel 13:5).1BIO 166.3

The time has come when we must be wholehearted in the truth. Everything is to be shaken that can be; therefore those whose feet are not planted on the rock will be shaken all to pieces. Those only will be able to stand in the day of slaughter who shall be found keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.— The Present Truth, July, 1849.1BIO 166.4

There was a commendable balance in White's position. He was careful to explain:1BIO 166.5

The keeping of the fourth commandment is all-important present truth; but this alone will not save anyone. We must keep all ten of the commandments, and strictly follow all the directions of the New Testament, and have living, active faith in Jesus. Those who would be found ready to enter the saints’ rest, at the appearing of Christ, must live wholly, wholly for Jesus now.— Ibid.1BIO 166.6

He declared that the little sheet was free to all, and added, “Those who are interested in Present Truth, and esteem it a privilege, are invited to help pay the expense.” To swell the mailing list, he asked:1BIO 167.1

Will some brother or sister in each place where this sheet is received send me in plain writing the names and post office address of all who are seeking present truth. Write soon. My post office address is Middletown, Connecticut.—Ibid.1BIO 167.2