Introduction
- Introduction
- Chapter 1—The Value of Visual Presentation
- Chapter 2—Effective Also for Evil
- Chapter 3—Seventh-day Adventists Wrestle With the Problem
- Chapter 4—At The Battle Creek Sanitarium
- Chapter 5—SDA Literary Societies
- Chapter 6—Lyceums and Literary Societies
- Chapter 7—Counsel Regarding the 1888 Enacted Christmas Program
- Chapter 8—The Use of Our Talents in Communication
- Chapter 9—Senses Confused by Games and Theatrical Performances
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- Appendix D—ENACTED SCENES
- Appendix E—THE EVANGELIST AND THEATRICAL DISPLAY
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Introduction
It is often asked, Are literary societies a benefit to our youth? To answer this question properly, we should consider not only the avowed purpose of such societies, but the influence which they have actually exerted, as proved by experience. The improvement of the mind is a duty which we owe to ourselves, to society, and to God. But we should never devise means for the cultivation of the intellect at the expense of the moral and the spiritual. And it is only by the harmonious development of both the mental and the moral faculties that the highest perfection of either can be attained. Are these results secured by literary societies as they are generally conducted?DPSDAI 9.3
As the question was first stated, it would appear very narrow-minded to answer in the negative; but in every case where a literary society has been established among our people, its influence has proved to be unfavorable to religious life, and has led to backsliding from God. This has been tried in Battle Creek and in other places, and the result has ever been the same. In some cases, long-standing evils have grown out of these associations.DPSDAI 9.4
The irreligious and unconsecrated in heart and life are usually admitted, and are often placed in the most responsible positions. Rules and regulations may be adopted that are thought to be sufficient to hold in check every deleterious influence; but Satan, a shrewd general, is at work to mold the society to suit his plans, and in time he too often succeeds...DPSDAI 9.5