THE CONFERENCE

Last week we gave a brief report of the opening of the Institute in connection with the General Conference. The allotted time for the Institute closed yesterday, the 17th; but as the subjects proposed for examination had not then been fully considered, a portion of the time of the Conference each day will be occupied with these questions till all who wish have spoken upon them.MMM 400.2

The principal question thus far discussed is that of the ten kingdoms that arose out of the Roman empire, as represented by the ten horns of the fourth beast of Daniel 7. The claim is set up, as our readers are aware, that the enumeration usually given of those kingdoms should be changed, and the Alemanni be put in place of the Huns as one of the ten. This position was advocated at great length, and as much was said on the other side as the limited state of preparation would allow. In view of all that was said on both sides, the sentiment of the delegates appeared, from unmistakable indications, to be overwhelmingly on the side of established principles of interpretation, and the old view. Whether or not this will make any difference with those who are urging the new position, remains to be seen.MMM 400.3

Sabbath, Oct. 13, was a memorable day on account of the refreshing received from the Lord. Sister White spoke in the afternoon with great freedom and power. From the text, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God,” most precious lessons were drawn of the great goodness of God to us, and how we should receive his love, and what he is willing to do for us, and what returns we should make to him for his manifold mercies to us. Hearts were melted by the sweet influence of the meeting, and it was indeed good to be there. After the discourse, sixty-two earnest testimonies were borne in quick succession, the burden of which was thanksgiving and praise for the mercies and goodness of the Lord.MMM 400.4

The Conference opened at the appointed time. Eighty-four delegates are present, representing almost every part of the field. These, with the visitors, make this probably the largest General Conference ever held. In addition to the accommodations provided in houses, some fifteen tents are pitched adjacent to the boarding-hall, erected for this occasion, which gives the scene almost the aspect of a camp-meeting.MMM 400.5

Some very interesting and instructive discourses have been given by Bro. Conradi, respecting the work in Germany and Russia, and his experiences there. In the same manner Bro. Haskell has spoken of the work in England, and the establishment of the cause in London, and the good results which have already been seen from it. Bro. A. T. Jones has given important lessons on the relation of the church to the Government and the work of the National Reform movement. On the whole, much valuable matter has been brought out, and we expect the best is yet to come. The proceedings of the Conference, thus far, will be found elsewhere.MMM 400.6