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Y+` 11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 ••••°'7/ RELIGION IN ACTION Volume 82 July 12, 11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 Number 26 1955 *%.• /7/ <1 by M. CAROL HETZELL z L-) • Of 5,982 complaints received by the Human Rights Commission of the United Nations within the last twelve months, of the TIMES 2,740 concerned infringements of religious liberty. The rest were mostly political. • Religious centers will be erected on ten Texas college campuses by the Episco- The World's Prophetic Weekly pal diocese of that state. A fund budg- eted at $2,250,000 has been raised for the Editor . . . . ARTHUR S. MAXWELL purpose of providing these centers for par- Assistant Editors Charles D. Utt, Donald A. Webster ish and student-faculty discussion and Art Director . . . Robert E. Kutsch recreation. Circulation Manager . . . H. K. Christman • The Lutheran Church of Bavaria on August 22-25 will hold ceremonies mark- ing the 400th anniversary of the Religious CONTENTS Peace of Augsburg. Church leaders from Germany and abroad will participate in a huge rally, climax of the occasion. Under EDITORIALS the terms of the Religious Peace of Augs- Conference at the Summit 3 burg all adherents of the Augsburg Con- Miracle of Peace 3 fession were acknowledged as Protestants and were given legal status and religious No Post-Mortem Salvation 4 freedom. ARTICLES • Abilene Christian College has been Saboteurs of the Home Roy F. Cottrell 5 deeded a $1,100,000 Texas ranch. The Do You Know Christ? Alfred S. Jorgensen 7 41,839-acre ranch is the largest gift ever received by the college since its founding The Truth About Seventh-day in 1906 and will underwrite the present Adventists LeRoy Edwin Froom 8 building program of the college and en- Growing in Grace Taylor G. Bunch 10 able it to go ahead with construction of Time of Test . . ..... Sanford T. Whitman 16 other units as soon as funds are available. The donor is seventy-nine-year-old cattle- JUST FOR YOUTH man W. M. Edwards of Fort Stockton. The Way Back . . ... Wilma Ross Westphal 12 • Protestant publications in the United States and Canada now report a total com- POEMS bined circulation of 10,550,342. There are God's Other Book Mark Bullock 5 129 publications included in this report, Is Ready ... . Hazel Hartwell Simon 7 and there are still others not reported. The Protestant periodical with the largest cir- REGULAR FEATURES culation is the Methodist bimonthly devo- Religion in Action, 2; Our World Today, 6; Bible tional publication The Upper Room, with Questions Answered, 11. a circulation of 3,000,000. • A special ceremony at the Pentagon marked the distribution of the 40,000,- 000th volume of the Scriptures to service personnel by the American Bible Society. The Rev. Richard H. Ellingson, a secretary of the society, presented a New Testament Printed and published weekly (four issues a month) by the Pacific Press Publishing Association at Mountain View, California, U.S.A. Entered as second•class matter Septem- to Admiral Arthur W. Radford, chairman ber 15, 1904, at the post office at Mountain View, California, under Act of March 3, 1879, of The Joint Chiefs of Staffs. The society Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1103, Act of has been giving out Bibles for 138 years. October 3, 1917, and authorized September 18, 1918. RATES in U.S.A. and Canada: Single copy, one year $2.25 Clubs of five or more to one address, each 2.00 OUR COVER To all other countries taking extra postage: If you have a television set and children, this Single copy, one year (U.S. currency) $2.75 photo could probably have been taken in your Clubs of five or more to one address, each (U.S. currency) . . . . 2.25 home any day of the week and at almost any Please make all checks and money orders payable to "Signs of the Times," Mountain View, California. time of day. Children—your children—are being taught that life is cheap and that killing In requesting change of address, please give both old and new addresses. No papers are sent except on paid subscriptions: is no sin. No wonder more and more horrible crimes are being committed by teen-agers and Member of Associated Church Press juveniles. Be sure to read "Saboteurs of the Home," by R. F. Cottrell, on page 5 of this issue.

PagC r SIGNS of the TIMES PHOTOS: UNITED PRESS (Left) The U.S.S. "Albacore," a $20,000,000 experimental submarine, is re- ported to be the world's fastest undersea vessel. (Right) This new dam at Bin-el-Ouidane, Morocco, will generate 200,000 kilowatts of electricity and EDITORIAL provide water for the irrigation of 300,000 acres in the North African desert.

delegates might ascend! To what lofty heights they might lead their people! This. would indeed be a "conference at CONFERENCE AT THE SUMMIT the summit"—with God. A. S. M.

HIS was Sir Winston Churchill's dream for many years. Frequently he spoke of it in Parliament and MIRACLE OF PEACE T elsewhere. If only there could be a "conference at the summit," he used to say, there might be hope that many of N HIS commencement address at West Point Military the world's gravest problems could be solved. Particularly in Academy—where he himself was graduated forty years the closing years of his premiership he sought, albeit unsuc- I ago—President Eisenhower took occasion to caution his cessfully, to get the leaders of the Great Powers together to listeners against expecting too much of the forthcoming Big try to find a way through the barriers of misunderstanding Four Meeting. that foster international strife. "We must be on guard," he said, "against fatuous expecta- Today his dream seems to be coming true, though he tions that a world sick with ignorance, mutual fears and will not share in it. From his place of retirement he can hates, can be miraculously cured by a single meeting." but watch the proceedings of the conference he did so much Problems which have baffled the minds of men for thou- to bring about. sands of years are not going to be solved in a single day, or There is something particularly apt about his phrase even three or four days. "This prospective conference of "conference at the summit," though in a sense it is most the four powers," he added, "is only a beginning in a renewed inadequate. effort that may last a generation." What is "the summit"? No doubt Sir Winston had in The President's words were most timely. Not since the mind the pinnacle of worldly influence, the loftiest height close of World War I has such a "peace and safety" cry been of leadership to which men can attain. But is this high heard around the world. Indeed, it is hard to believe that enough? but a few short months ago the chief topic of conversation Are not those who dwell upon these fearsome peaks of in most circles was the time and place when the next world power but men "of like passions" as ourselves ? With all war would break out. their experience and all their wisdom, are they not subject Suddenly, as if someone had waved a magic wand over to the limitations of mortality like the rest of us whom they the nations, Korea, Indo-China, North Africa, Palestine, and seek to help ? other trouble centers have been forgotten. Peace, blessed Do they not need help themselves ? Is not the summit peace, is the theme of the hour, and the prophets of paradise- they have attained but a modest foothill beside the majestic around-the-corner are enjoying a field day. heights they need to ascend if they are to satisfy the hopes We do not deny that there has been an easing of tensions. their fellow men have placed in them? The Bandung Conference, far from stirring up strife, as some The Four Power Conference at Geneva will be no true expected, was conducted with admirable discretion. Russia, "conference at the summit" if God is left out of it. He should for reasons not yet revealed, has made a series of amazing be the principal participant. His voice should carry the great- gestures of good will toward her neighbors. Old barricades est weight. seem to be crumbling. Curtains of various kinds are being If only God were to be invited, what a conference this slowly and cautiously drawn aside. might be! If only it could be held in a spirit of prayer, with We should thank God for all such steps toward better all four world leaders earnestly seeking His guidance, what understanding between the peoples of the world. At the same a mark it would make on history! What spiritual peaks its time we must remember that no basic change has taken for July 12, 1955 Page Three place. The evils frOm which wars spring have not been NO POST-MORTEM SALVATION eradicated from the human heart. The wicked spirits that create strife between men and nations have not yet been E HAVE been surprised to find recently in the writ- exorcised. Greed, lust, pride, envy, jealousy, are as- preva- ings of Protestant clergymen the teaching of purga- lent today as ever. Crime statistics are at their worst. Law- tory—and not only the teaching but the word itself. lessness, even in the most civilized countries, has reached One of these writers is Dr. Nels F. S. Ferre, professor of shocking proportions. philosophical at Vanderbilt University, whom News- Nowhere is there any indication of mass conversions to week lists as one of the ten "greatest American preachers;" the teachings of Jesus Christ which are fundamental to any and the other is a Canadian preacher, Rev. G. Stanley Russell. lasting peace. True, Billy Graham and other popular evan- Says Dr. Ferre in his book, The Christian Understanding gelists have enjoyed spectacular success. A good deal of time of God: "Hell is also to be distinguished from purgatory. is given to religious themes on radio and television programs. While that term is not much used by Protestant writers, it Religious books are enjoying a boom. More people are nevertheless stands for an important truth in the realm of going to church than ever before. But how many are accept- last things." ing Christ on His terms of full surrender? How many are "When a person dies, though completely forgiven, he dedicating themselves to Him for time and eternity ? How may still have untold consequences for which he must help many are actually denying self, turning their backs on the to pay. . . . Hell is for the bad; purgatory for the repentant. world, and taking up a cross to follow Him? Hell leads away from heaven; purgatory is a necessary cor- Unless real conversions of this sort take place, and on a ridor to heaven. Purgatory may last through many lives and much larger scale than has happened up to now, it is indeed existences after this one, for God has much time to make a "fatuous," as President Eisenwer said, to expect one con- rich product, to foster wonderful children."—Pages 23o, 231. ference to bring peace on earth, good will to men. A world Dr. Russell writes in his weekly column in the Toronto "sick with ignorance, fears, and hates" will never be miracu- Daily Star of May 21: "The idea of purgatory receives some lously cured by any such means. support from the teaching of Jesus about many and few stripes There is a miraculous cure. Christ offered it to the world and 'paying the uttermost farthing.' If death is merely the two thousand years ago. He offers it again today. And if shedding of the flesh, and the life of the personality is other- men will not accept it, if they will not submit their wills to wise uninterrupted, then who are we, or what right have we, the will of God, if they will not permit the to to say that God has given a man his last chance? Why make change their hearts and eradicate their evil propensities, they death a determining point in the eternal journey of the soul? will never know peace. Sooner or later war will break out . . . Who is to say that, five minutes after death, the soul, again and the "peace and safety" cry prove but an idle dream. liberated from the body, shall not have both new visions In a time like this we need to keep our heads and avoid and new opportunities ?" being swept away by the unthinking sentiment of the mo- To believe in purgatory is to deny that Christ's sacrifice ment. Nothing has happened to disprove the prophecies con- for mankind is sufficient to save from sin. It is simply a cerning these latter days. There may be a little time of peace; manifestation of the pagan doctrine of salvation by works, the "angels" may take a fresh hold upon the winds of strife —that man must do something himself to ensure his salva- (Revelation 7:1) ; God in His mercy may postpone the day of tion. If he fails, by good works of one kind or another, to reckoning a little longer (2 Peter 3:9); but an evil and adul- lay up enough merit during his lifetime, he still has a chance terous generation cannot forever expect to escape the due after death to make up the deficit by undergoing a cleansing reward for its deeds. —purgation—by suffering for his sins. Christ has His own plans for world peace. He has been Sins are not cleansed by the fires of purgatory but by working them out since the dawn of history. Soon He will the blood of Christ. "In whom [Christ] we have redemption bring them to their final consummation. If we would share through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the in them we must let Him work His miracle of peace in our riches of His grace." Ephesians I :7. hearts today. A. S. M. Peter's teaching is equally conclusive. "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold; . . . but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot." I Peter 1:18, 19. That salvation is of faith alone is the consistent teaching of the apostle Paul. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2:8, 9. Proud human nature does not like to admit that it is helpless to save itself. It feels that it must "help to pay," but the gospel truth is that Christ by His sacrifice paid the full price of our redemption. He paid all, not half, not three fourths. He paid "the uttermost farthing" for us. We can earn death, but we can receive eternal life only as "the gift of God . . . through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23. It takes only a moment to accept this gift. That is God's way; and to say that after death we must make amends for sins committed in this life is to belittle the gift of God's UNITED PRESS grace. Christ did not begin our salvation for us and then In the nationwide alert of 400,000 National Guardsmen a squad par- ticipates in Operation Minuteman at the 71st Infantry Regiment leave it for us to finish. He is "the Author and Finisher of Armory in New York City. our faith." He is the only "corridor to heaven." C. D. u. Page Four SIGNS of the TIMES Destructive Effect of Crime "Comics" and Sordid TV Shows

Need for Better Parental Leadership and Example c46eteot4 ei the lime

by ROY F. COTTRELL

HOUSANDS of pens have extolled the virtues and far- Among the worst of these enemies are the many sordid reaching influence of the true home, but it appears that pictures shown on TV and the trashy crime comics and story most of this wholesome counsel has been lost upon the magazines that flood the newsstands. These colorful textbooks parents and children of these modern times. on crime, or "primers in depravity," are issued under more Untold millions of those who should be conscientious than four hundred titles, and suggest ingenious methods of home builders sense but dimly the trust of their picking pockets, robbing houses, torturing helpless people, exalted task. Consequently the saboteurs of the home are mutilating captives, disabling or killing an opponent, and allowed to enter, and their number is legion. describe numerous other forms of barbarism. After seven years' study of these vicious prints the eminent psychiatrist Dr. Frederic Wertham states, "The average par- ent has no idea that every imaginable crime is described in detail in comic books. That is their main stock in trade. . . . If one were to set out to show children how to steal, rob, lie, cheat, assault, and break into houses, no better method could by MARK BULLOCK be devised."—Seduction of the Innocent, page 157. • Have you ever taken a leisurely stroll This crusading investigator further states, "A billion times Through the beauty of hill and dell, a year an American child sits down and pores over a comic And read from the pages of God's other book book" that presents "horror stories," teaches "sex perversity," The wonders it has to tell? and instills "habits of hate." Then the TV, or "Tele-Violence" continues its frightening assault on virtue and morality to The flowers all speak of a kind Father's care, develop a race of youthful perverts and thrill-maddened gang- And the murmuring rills never cease sters. No wonder, then, that young people educated in such a To sing that His mercy eternally flows, . school of psychopathic nightmares should commit more than And His thoughts are but thoughts of peace. half the major crimes perpetrated in the United States! Christian churches, schools, civic clubs, and even the The soft, wooing sound of the wind in the trees United States Congress, are alerted to cope with the tragic Tells how God speaks to the heart, And the gleaming -white clouds that spangle the blue situation. Also the recent annual convention of the national Teach of His skill and art. Council of Juvenile Court Judges, held in Colorado Springs, <.: Colorado, severely denounced the commercial spirit that At night die bright stars spread His glories afar stoops to publish such shameless villainy and vice. They As their splendor streams down from above. further called for determined action on the part of "Federal, How beautifully does God's other book tell state, and local authorities to outlaw, curtail, and prohibit the Of His infinite wisdom and love! publication, dissemination, and distribution" of this demoral- izing trash. • Another sinister foe of happy family life is strong drink. for July 12, 1955 Page Five The magazine Better Homes and Gar- tered unto, but to minister; and where of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, dens of March, 1954, reports a survey the love of God reigns supreme, every abusive, disobedient to their parents, conducted in Nassau County, New service to Him and to others becomes a ungrateful, unholy, inhuman, implaca- York. It made the shocking disclosure delight. ble, slanderers, profligates, fierce, haters that about 90 per cent of the high-school By contrast the godless home presents of good, treacherous, reckless, swollen boys and girls indulge in alcoholic bev- a scene of discord, friction, and harsh, with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather erages; that most parents permit their unkind words. From such sordid en- than lovers of God." 2 Timothy 3:1-4, children to drink; that 75 per cent of vironment comes a harvest of anguish R.S.V. those youngsters took their first drink and crime. Juvenile authorities state that What language could more vividly at home; that practically all parents of at least 8o per cent of our lawbreakers portray the picture that daily greets us youthful drinkers use beer, wine, or come from either broken or unsympa- in the current newspapers and radio whisky; and that 93 per cent of these thetic homes. broadcasts ? In the phrase, "disobedient "keep stocks of alcoholic beverages in Nor is the situation improving. Apos- to their parents, ungrateful, unholy," their homes." tles of trial marriage, "companionate the flood of juvenile crime and outrage Does this represent a cross section of marriage," and free love have contrib- is clearly indicated. The terms "with- conditions throughout America ? Fa- uted their part to home wrecking. On out natural affection" and "incontinent" thers and mothers, do you sense the re- the screen, in popular literature, over the point directly to the crumbling ideals of sponsibility and influence that is yours ? radio, and even in many schoolrooms, wedlock and the alarming social trends Do you not realize that alcohol is one of the noble and sacred ideals of family life of our day. As a commentary upon the the greatest producers of crime in the are ridiculed and defamed. indictment, "lovers of pleasures more world ? Fifty years ago clergymen and social than lovers of God," note the recent an- Be it large or small, the home should workers sensed alarm that one marriage nouncement of the publishers of Time be a sacred retreat with "a world of out of every twelve ended in divorce. and Life that "American life today is on strife shut out, and a world of love shut But today one marriage in every three or the move—toward the fun side of exist- in," a veritable little heaven in which to four goes on the rocks of separation. ence;" and in response to "this great prepare for the heaven above. Yes— Truly the moral standards and safe- surge toward fun" they are issuing a guards of our civilization are sadly shat- new magazine dedicated to sports. Home, the spot on earth supremely blest, In our Lord's prophetic address de- A dearer, sweeter spot than all the rest. tered; and the perilous situation should convince every unprejudiced mind that livered just prior to His crucifixion, He The real home can be built upon one this is the time designated in the New described the frenzied social life that material and one only—love. There is Testament prophecy: "Understand this, would characterize the close of the age. such a thing as true love, beautiful and that in the last days there will come He compared it to the days of Noah and wonderful. It yearns, not to be minis- times of stress. For men will be lovers Lot, when men were "eating and drink- _4 ing, marrying and giving in marriage." "Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed." Matthew 24:38; Luke 17:30. OUR WORLD TODAY Those ancient peoples despised the warnings and entreaties given. While Mental Illness Costs cent of all robberies in the United States, on the very verge of destruction they Mental illness, America's No. i health 24.9 per cent of all violations involving danced, banqueted, and committed problem, costs the State of New York receipt of stolen goods, 40.1 per cent of nameless follies. In like manner the $158,000,000 annually, which amounts to all larcenies, 49.3 per cent of all burglar- "35 per cent of the Empire State's oper- ies, and 53.6 per cent of all auto thefts. reckless parental and juvenile excesses ating budget," according to the New York of the present signal the closing days of Times. The Federal Government's an- New Rocket earth's history. nual bill for mental illness among veterans The engineering Research Institute of According to the prophetic word, we is $397,000,000 annually for compensation, the University of Michigan has delivered can hardly hope to stay the tide of home and $200,000,000 for hospital care. to the Defense Department the major com- wrecking and social laxity. Statistics will ponents of two sleek, needle-nosed rockets doubtless continue to reveal a down- Bank Robberies Rising which will make it possible to explore the The bank-robbing element has stepped atmosphere to altitudes of 400,00o feet at ward trend. But in the interim we can up its criminal activity for the fifth con- what physicists regard as a bargain price. set our own homes in order. By voice secutive year, according to the Federal Hitherto it has cost about $100,000 to and pen and influence we may tell Bureau of Investigation. During the first build and equip a rocket for atmospheric others of a Christ who can recondition eight months of the 1955 fiscal year some exploration. It is estimated that the smaller human derelicts, rebuild family altars, 386 banking institutions were robbed. In rockets can be built, equipped, and and restore love and happiness in the the same period last year 273 bank crimes launched, and their findings analyzed, for home. occurred. Bank robberies have been on a $15,000. The new rocket weighs only 220 Brother, sister, friend, Christ is soon to steady, upward increase since late 1950. pounds and stands eight feet high. return to welcome His sons and daugh- Youth Crime Increases Conscientious Objectors ters to the "many mansions" where Of 1,791,160 persons arrested in 1953, Two-thirds of the 3,906 conscientious peace, security, joy, and love will reign 8.4 per cent were seventeen or younger, objectors currently in alternative civilian supreme for evermore. Now is the time and 24.9 per cent were under twenty-five, service are Mennonites and Amish, the to draw near to God and fervently pray: according to J. Edgar Hoover, director of National Service Board for Religious Ob- the Federal Bureau of Investigation, testi- jectors announced. Next largest group Lord, come and dwell within this home fying before a House of Representatives (343): Church of the Brethren. Jehovah's with me appropriations subcommittee. The teen- Witnesses ranked third with 163, the Till I shall enter that bright home with age group, he said, accounts for 18 per Quakers fourth with 145. D. A. W. Thee. Page Six SIGNS of the TIMES

ELLOWSHIP . . . with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ," is the essence of Christian experience. John i :3. Anything less may be helpful, but it is only when Young People Know When They we can sing, "Blessed , Jesus is mine!" that we really know what it means to be a Christian. Are in Love. Are You in Love Ritual is often emotionally stimulating and aesthetically satisfying, but it can never take the place of "Christ in you, With ? the hope of glory." Colossians 1:27. The Christian life is produced through the union of the human and the divine. There is a sense in which every truly Christian life is an by ALFRED S. JORGENSEN incarnation, in which Christ is "formed" in the believer. Galatians 4:19. The Christian life is not uncertain. We may know day by day that we are in right relationship with Christ, and that His life is being reproduced in us through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. JESUS IS READY One of the things which must impress us as we read the first epistle of John is the frequency with which he uses the by Hazel Hartwell Simon word "know," and the settings in which he employs it. "We Ile wants to come back as He promised. may," for instance, "be sure that we know Him." i John 2:3, He's eager to gather His own, R.S.V. We may "know that we have passed from death unto He watches with infinite longing life." i John 3:14. We may "know that He abideth in us, by from there, where He stands by God's throne. the Spirit which He hath given us." Verse 24. And in know- ing these things we may know that we have eternal life. llis angels will go at His bidding, John 5:13. For "this is the record, that God hath given to . All heaven is decked as a bride us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath the With garlands and jewels to welcome The people ChriSt wants at His side. Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life." Verses 11, 12. The cloud for His journey is waiting, Can we know how we stand with God at the present time? The trumpet, the rainbow, the crowns: The apostle John is emphatic in saying that "now are we the With mercies and bountiful blessings sons of God." 1 John 3:2. We may have the assurance this The heavenly service abounds, very moment that we are "in Him," that we have been cleansed from our sins through His precious blood, that we 'Tis only for us to be busy have been freed from the condemnation of the law through Preparing our hearts for this Friend! His perfect sacrifice, and that we are living in conformity to He's ready and willing and waiting, His will through the enabling grace of His blessed Spirit. Not And soon our dear Lord will descend. in some glorious tomorrow; not at the moment of death; not (Continued on page 13) APAST,,,2 ISM4.0,4

for July 12, 19.55 Page_Reven W. R. Beach, W. B. Ochs, F. G. Clifford, Wilhelm Mueller, F. A. Mote, A. H. Roth, Secretary, President, North President, President, Central President, President, Inter- General Conference. American Division. Australasian Division. European Division. Far Eastern Division. American Division.

The Truth About Seventh-Day Adventists I: Their Origin and History

by LEROY EDWIN FROOM Author of "The Prophetic Faith of Our Fathers"

(Reprinted by permission from "The American Church of the Prot- estant Heritage," compiled by Dr. Vergilius Perm, College of Woos- ter, published by the Philosophical Library, Inc., New York City.) ADVENTISTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT HE advent hope has been the cherished possession of the Christian church throughout the centuries. But For some reason or other, Seventh-day Adventists are T during the early decades of the nineteenth century a receiving a great deal of publicity today. The article profound conviction of its imminence developed simul- "What Is a Seventh-day Adventist?" by the editor of the taneously and spontaneously among pious scholars in prac- Signs of the Times, has now been syndicated in scores of tically all religious bodies in the different countries of metropolitan dailies and is part of a new book just off the Christendom. press, entitled A Guide to the Religions of America, by Mr. Hundreds, in both Old World and New, gave voice to Leo Rosten, editor of Look. the belief that, according to the prophetic portions of the Other articles concerning the work and teachings of Bible, mankind had entered the closing period of earth's Seventh-day Adventists are appearing with increasing fre- quency in the daily and weekly press, while comments history. That time they designated as the "last days," the regarding this denomination's varied and widespread mis- "time of the end," or "end of the age," according to Scripture sionary activities are often made on radio and television phrasings. programs. The second coming of Christ was widely believed to be All this favorable publicity has naturally raised ques- drawing near and the long-anticipated millennial age ap- tions in the minds of many concerning this religious body, proaching. The development of numerous Bible societies, especially as to its history and teachings. It has also foreign and home missionary societies, tract societies and brought some reactions from people who know little about Sunday-school unions, temperance and other reform move- Seventh-day Adventists and consequently are antagonistic ments, all tended to substantiate that belief. toward them. One such individual is Dr. Louis T. Talbot, In Great Britain some 30o clergymen of the established of the Bible Institute of Los Angeles, who has written a Church of England were heralding this belief in the 1820's series of three articles in The King's Business concerning and 1830's, and more than twice that number of noncon- Seventh-day Adventists, based largely on statements made formist ministers were teaching the same concept. On the by ex-members, always a fallible criterion. European continent it permeated the various Protestant To help answer the most important questions raised in this connection, we are printing this authoritative article bodies and was especially marked among the Pietists. In the from the pen of LeRoy Edwin Froom, a world-renowned Old World the development was well called "the great writer on church history and an expert in his field. It second advent awakening" of the nineteenth century. It was should go far to clarify the minds of our readers concern- principally an undenominational emphasis, fostered by indi- ing this denomination. A second article, dealing with the viduals, but not assuming the form of an integrated move- beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists, will appear next week. ment.' In America, however, in the early 184o's, this same em- phasis appeared in more pronounced form, and developed into an extensive second advent movement. Likewise mani- Page Eight SIGNS of the TIMES G. J. Appel, A. F. Tarr, W. E. Murray, R. S. Watts, 0; 0. Mattison, M. V. Campbell, President, President, Northern President, South President, Southern President, Southern President, Southern Middle East Division. European Division. American Division. African Division. Asia Division. European Division.

year 1843," or more specifically, between which tens of thousands had withdrawn "March 21, 1843, and March 21, 1844." before the time of expectation. A rather After the passing of this time the date large group banded themselves together, was revised by Miller's associates to however, at Albany, New York, in May, October 22, 1844. 1845, to continue the general heralding This time aspect, in both Old World of the advent teaching. Some of this and New, rested primarily on a widely group set the time of the advent in terms supported interpretation of the 2300 of definite future dates; others lapsed year-days of Daniel 8:13, 14, which pre- into indefinite waiting, holding that no dicts the cleansing of the "sanctuary" at Bible prophecy had actually been ful- the close of this long period. This was filled on October 22, 1844. at first understood by Miller to involve the cleansing of the earth by fire, just as Formation of the Church and the antediluvian world was cleansed by Its Polity water—and this cleansing by fire consti- Another, though very much smaller, tuted "the end of the world." group, largely in New England, held Miller contended that the basic rules that the historical and prophetic evi- of prophetic interpretation which he fol- dence which led them to fix upon Oc- lowed were in full agreement with the tober 22, 1844, as the date of the precise exposition of hundreds of learned di- ending of the 2300-year prophetic period vines of various faiths in preceding cen- of Daniel 8:14 was unimpeachable. They turies, as well as of contemporary times. believed that the mistake lay in mis- PHOTOS: REVIEW AND HERALD PUB. ASSN. And scores of scholars, prior to Miller's understanding the event that was to R. R. Figuhr, President, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. first book in 1836, had pointed to 1843, take place,' and they held that the in- 1844, or 1847 as a crucial date.' Even spired prediction really indicated a work festing itself at first as an independent Miller's most determined theological of final investigative judgment in the development, and stressed by scores of opponents generally conceded this, sanctuary in heaven, to begin shortly leading clergymen of the various Prot- many agreeing that Bible prophecy had before the second advent. Prominent in estant faiths—Presbyterian, Congrega- marked out the 1840's for some impor- this latter group, sponsoring this inter- tionalist, Baptist, Lutheran, Reformed, tant prophetic, event, or fulfillment, but pretation, were Hiram Edson, Joseph Episcopalian, Christian, and Disciple insisting that it was a moral regenera- Bates, James White, Ellen Harmon —it took on, in time, the dimensions tion or reformation, involving world (who became Mrs. James White on of a distinctive movement, just' as the conversion instead of physical conflagra- August 30, 1846), Frederick Wheeler, Wesleyan and Disciples groups finally tion and cataclysm, that was destined to and S. W. Rhodes. And, along with the emerged into distinct denominations. take place. acceptance of this position, they and William Miller, licensed Baptist min- Times were tense, and distortion was others soon began the observance of the ister of Low Hampton, New York, was common. Most of the fanciful stories seventh day as the Sabbath, which they the recognized leader of this American circulated at that time regarding alleged had in turn received from the Seventh movement, some 200 clergymen and 500 donning of "ascension robes" by the Day Baptists. Captain Bates, who had public lecturers joining him, and be- Millerites and concerning widespread been prominent among the Millerites, tween 5o,000 and ioo,000 identifying insanity, suicide, and murder resulting took the lead in promulgating this view themselves as Second Adventists around from their perfervid preaching, have be- through a tract he wrote in 1846.8 1843-44. Some contemporaries, such as come a persistent part of American folk- Shortly after the disappointment, Hi- the Hartford Universalist, alluded to lore—but without factual foundation.' ram Edson and 0. R. L. Crosier of Port i,000,000 adherents.' So conspicuous was When the Lord did not descend from Gibson and Canandaigua, New York, the evangelizing vigor of this movement heaven to raise the righteous dead and introduced the position that, according that the terms "Millerite" and "Miller- translate the righteous living on October to the Old Testament sanctuary service ism" became household words, with the 22, 1844, the loose-knit movement broke type, there were two phases to the movement under constant discussion in up after the great disappointment. Some earthly high priest's ministry, and that the public press.' Miller believed that the repudiated their former positions en- there are similarly two phases to Christ's second advent would occur "about the tirely and returned to the churches from (Continued on page 13) for July 12, 1955 Page Nine DEVANEY LOGAN ROBERTS

Growing in Grace

EN we are justified through imputed and receive our title to heaven, the divine instruction always follows, "Go, and sin 11..o more." With the past taken care of as completely as if we had never sinned, power is then made available to keep us from falling, and this is accomplished through sanctifica- tion, or spiritual growth. This is the work of a lifetime. This is the means by which we are fitted for heaven through the development of the character of Christ. is not obtained by a happy flight of feeling or emotional ecstasy, but by a daily surrender of self and a constant living for Christ. It involves .sore discipline and stern conflict. Besetting sins must be overcome, and as long as life lasts there can be no stopping place in the long road to perfection in Christ. At no point can a Christian say, "I have fully attained." Growth is always gradual, whether it be in the physical or in the spiritual realm. It cannot be discerned with the naked eye, though the change can be seen over a period of time. In nature, growth is affected by the soil, water, climate, and cultivation, so that under favorable circumstances growth may be hastened; and the same is true in spiritual growth. Through the exercise of faith we may be instantly justified and receive title to heaven; but the preparation through charac- ter development is gradual, the speed depending on the spiritual environment for which the individual is responsible. The Scriptures declare that we are "born of the Spirit" through the agency of the word. "Being , not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever." Then follows the instruction: "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." I Peter 1:23; 2:2. This growth from birth to spiritual maturity is de- scribed in Ephesians 4:12-15. Here we are told that the gifts of the Spirit are "for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: that .we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the Head, even Christ." Like growth in nature, spiritual development is silent and invisible, but continuous. It is produced by divine power even though it depends on our co- operation. The chief ambition of children is to reach the maturity of their parents. They sometimes become impatient because of the slow process of growth; but there How the Christian is no need of concern if they partake regularly of plenty of fresh air, wholesome Becomes food, pure water, and adequate physical exercise. This is their part in physical growth, and this co-operation is absolutely necessary to the maintenance of health Like His Lord and the assurance of further growth. Regularity in meals, sleep, and exercise accomplish marvels for the human body; but it is a price many are not willing to No Sudden Leap pay, and they therefore suffer the consequences of disobedience to nature's laws. The same principle applies to spiritual health and growth. The daily reading to Perfection and study of the Scriptures, regularity in prayer and attendance at divine services, and spiritual exercise through missionary activity, require effort that altogether by TAYLOR G. BUNCH too many professed Christians are not willing to make. They neglect to feed and nurture and cultivate their spiritual natures, and the results are evident in their Page Ten SIGNS of the TIMES Christian experience. We must co-oper- retain only a small per cent of what is ever fought, and a man can gain the ate with the spiritual laws which govern said; their own attitude determines their victory over sin only as he yields his life our souls if we would grow normally in growth in knowledge and experience. to the sovereignty of God. One must religious things. Otherwise we will suf- One of the first things man must do renounce self and receive of the mind' of fer from spiritual malnutrition and be- to receive this imparted righteousness is Christ as the price of holiness and sal- come stunted and dwarfed in religious to surrender his will to God; and this vation. experience. The individual must bear sometimes means a terrible struggle. , or imputed righteous- the responsibility for his faithfulness or Even Jesus, in the Garden of Geth- ness, has to do with the act and guilt neglect. semane, "sweat as it were great drops of of sin, while sanctification, or imparted Preparation, training, and education blood" as He prayed, "Not My will, but righteousness, deals with the nature and are always gradual, and can be speeded Thine, be done." The battle is called power of sin. Man is responsible for his up or slowed down by the interest and "the good fight of faith," for "this is the conduct, for the sins committed, but he co-operation of the individual, or by the victory that overcometh the world, even is not responsible for his sinful nature lack of them. Jesus promised, "The our faith." The victory is a divine gift which he receives by inheritance. For- Spirit of truth . . . will guide you into because it is already won, and therefore giveness of sin is one thing, and victory all truth" and "teach you all things," the Christian soldier can say with confi- over and deliverance from the power of and both guidance and teaching are dence, "But thanks be to God, which sin is another. Christ is anxious to de- slow processes requiring a lifetime. In giveth us the victory through our Lord liver us from the dominion of , but behalf of His disciples Jesus prayed to Jesus Christ." i Corinthians 15:57. In before we can be freed from his power His Father, "Sanctify them through fact, He "always causeth us to triumph without, we must be delivered from his Thy truth: Thy word is truth." But in Christ," and "in every place." 2 Co- power within. since we are sanctified and set apart only rinthians 2:14. While it is important that we be by the truth we know and put into The struggle on our part is therefore saved from sin as an action, it is even practice, it is evident that sanctification a result of our reluctance to surrender more important that we know the power is the work of a lifetime, for no man has our stubborn wills. The prophet de- that can control the sinful nature and ever fully sounded the depth of divine clared that man by nature is "obstinate," through the miracle-working power of inspiration. with a neck like "an iron sinew" and a Christ be given "the divine nature" so The gradual nature of character trans- brow like "brass." Isaiah 48:4. It is that we "do by nature the things con- formation is also indicated by the fact difficult for God to turn him from his tained in the law." Christ died not only that we are changed by beholding, as is determined course or to change his that we might be justified and freed. set forth in 2 Corinthians 3:18: "And all mind. Re-creation is much more diffi- from the sins of the past, but also that of us, with unveiled faces, reflecting like cult than the original creation, because human nature might be changed and bright mirrors the glory of the Lord, are it requires the consent of man's stub- beautified and restored to the divine being transformed into the same like- born and obstinate will. This battle over image. While we are reconciled by ness, from one degree of radiant holiness the surrender of the will is the greatest (Continued on page 15) to another, even as derived from. the Lord the Spirit." (Weymouth, 3d. ed.) When the vision is fixed on the char- acter of Christ, the beholder grdws into Bible Questions Answered the likeness of that which he adores. One writer stated it thus: "By the life THE SINNER'S PRAYERS those who cry to Him for deliverance from we live through the grace of Christ the I have heard it said that no one but a their evil ways. God pleads with the sinner character is formed. The original loveli- Christian has a right to pray, and the un- . to "put away the evil" of his doings; and ness begins to be restored to the soul. saved will not be heard. Mrs. C. W. L. He promises, "Though your sins be as The attributes of the character of Christ scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; are imparted, and the image of the Di- Perhaps the person who made the state- though they be red like crimson, they shall vine begins to shine forth. The faces of ment referred to had in mind the words be as wool." Isaiah 1:15-18. The publican of a blind man whom Jesus healed. When who prayed, "God be merciful to me a sin- men and women who walk and work the Pharisees called Jesus a sinner because with God express the peace of heaven. ner," was heard, for Christ said, "I tell He healed the man on the Sabbath, the you, this man went down to his house justi- They are surrounded with the atmos- man replied, "Now we know that God fied." Luke 18:13, 14. phere of heaven. For these souls the heareth not sinners: but if any man be a kingdom of God has begun."—E. G. worshiper of God, and doeth His will, him SAINT White, The Desire of Ages, page 312. He heareth." John 9:31. See verse 24. What is the meaning of the word The word "imparted" indicates some- Some things separate man from God and "saint"? L. C. W. thing done in us which becomes a part prevent His hearing prayer. For example, "Saint" is the French form of the Latin of us and in which we have a part to act. we read, "If I regard [cherish] iniquity in word sanctus, meaning "holy." Saints are It means "to share, to allow another to my heart, the Lord will not hear me." holy ones, and as used in the New Testa- partake in; as the impartation of knowl- Psalm 66:18. "But your iniquities have ment the word meant living members of edge." A teacher can impart knowledge separated between you and your God, and the churches; for example, "Salute every your sins have hid His face from you, that saint in Christ." Philippians 4:21. See also to the students in his class, or a pastor to He will not hear." Isaiah 59:2. "He that Acts 9:13, 32, 41; 26:1o; Romans 15:25, his congregation, only when he has the turneth away his ear from hearing the law, 26, etc. co-operation of the hearers. Those who even his prayer shall be abomination." The same usage is found in the Old Tes- obtain most from instruction are those Proverbs 28:9. See also Jeremiah II:to, II; tament. "0 love the Lord, all ye His who manifest the greatest interest and Ezekiel 8:17, 18; Zechariah 7:12, 13. saints." Psalm 31:23. See also Psalm 89: concentration. For this reason some al- God will not hear the sinner as long as 5, 7; Daniel 7:18, 22, 27, etc. Sometimes ways advance more rapidly than do he is satisfied in his sins; but His grace the word "saint" refers to heavenly beings. others. In every class and audience some extends to every sinner, and He will hear Daniel 8:13. c. D. U. for July 12, 1955 Page Eleven JUST FOR YOUTH

THE WAY BACK Chapter 6

THE STORY THUS FAR Even though David Getslaff was going to school, having a good time took priority over his studies. His chief ambition was to be considered a regular fellow, and he spent mast of his spare time running around with Al Preston. Then David heard a chapel talk which com- pletely shattered some of his pet theories. In fact, the next time Al saw David he could tell that something had happened to his friend. "If you're going soft," Al said, "I reckon I'd best look for another pardner." David started studying his Bible. As a result his life was completely changed. Little did he realize that a change also was taking place in Al Preston, who stayed up until three o'clock one morning reading the book "Steps to Christ." If what he had read was true, he discovered that there was as much hope for him as there was for Dave.

"Yes; and I've come to make a con- fession and to try to make amends," said David. Back at Last! "According to your friend," replied Mr. Allen, "he involved you without by WILMA ROSS WESTPHAL your knowing anything about it. That young fellow has moral stamina. He is worthy of a good friend, David. He has made arrangements to pay back by in- stallments the amount he took. He also AVID GET,SLAFF, silent and of the clerks with a new determination, suggested paying interest on the full _ pensive, boarded the bus for the he said, "I must see the manager. Where amount. With all his unfortunate past, D nearby city. Ordinarily he was may I find him ?" he is developing a surprising amount of happy to be out of doors, but today was "Up there," said the man, pointing to courage and character." different; he was weighed down with a the mezzanine floor. "I accepted half the money," confessed load that had grown more burdensome "Thank you," David said politely. David. "I'm just as guilty as he is— each day. The manager's door was closed. Da- more so, in fact! I have a wonderful The night he had visited Pastor Loring vid waited outside. A half hour went by. Christian mother and the privilege of a in his study he had determined to go to Finally David heard footsteps and muf- Christian education. But, Al—he's had the grocery store and confess his part in fled voices. The door opened and the none of these things! a theft which he and Al had committed manager and a young man appeared. "I have no money," he continued, months before. Now he was on his way "Why, Dave!" the young man ex- "but I'm willing to work to pay it off. to do it. claimed, "what you doing here?" I want to make my part of this right. I Sitting in the crowded bus, he thought David ran a hand across his unbeliev- can serve at the counter or clean up— about the change in Al and wondered ing eyes. "Why, Al! Is it really you ? anything you need to have done, sir." what had brought it about. He couldn't What are you doing here?" "Tell you what, Dave," replied Mr. believe Al had spent any appreciable "I'm just finding my way, too, Dave. Allen, "we do need some more help in time reading the little book Steps to Had the afternoon off, so I came to the store. I've been thinking seriously Christ which he had given him. make things right—sort of square things of putting another young man on per- Then he thought about the manager off, you know. I reckon I ain't much manently. Let's see, your classes will he was about to see, and the more he account, and I don't suppose I'll ever soon be out for summer vacation; sup- thought the more frightened he be- amount to anything, but there ain't no pose you start in part time now, and, if came. By the time he reached the store law against being decent an' square your work is satisfactory, I'll put you on his feet were dragging and the muscles shooting, I reckon!" full time for the summer." of his throat had grown as taut as "I came to make things right, too," "Why, thanks, Mr. Allen, thanks a lot! violin strings. But there was no turning said Dave. "You wait outside, Al. I I'll do my best. I'll start tomorrow af- back now! want to talk to the manager a few min- ternoon." Silently he prayed to God for help. utes." "Just one thing, Dave. I entered into Suddenly, forgetting his own troubles, David turned to face the manager. an agreement with Al Preston to permit he thought only of the sacrifice Christ "I'm sorry, sir, but—" him to pay the full amount. I think it had made for him. Walking up to one "You are David Getslaff, I assume ?" best to stick to that; it will do a lot Page Twelve SIGNS of the TIMES toward restoring his self-respect. It's up not be until we come to the end of the He that hath the Son hath life; and he to you as to how you make it up to him." journey that we will be able to consider that hath not the Son of God hath not "All right, Mr. Allen," said David; ourselves as actually saved. As the Sav- life." i John 5:11, 12. See John 3:36. "there'll be a way." iour Himself declared, "He that shall It is true that no one can pluck a Al was waiting for David. On the endure unto the end, the same shall be Christian out of Christ's hand (John way home they stopped at the village saved." Matthew 24:13. Hence we must 1o:28, 29) ; but we can, if we so desire, church. Dave wanted Al to meet Pastor recognize any doctrine of a present eter- pluck ourselves out of His hand. The Loring. nal security—the concept of "once saved acceptance of the gospel does. not ter- "This is a privilege I have looked for- always saved"—as having no warrant in minate the exercise of our free will. We ward to for several weeks," said the the word of God. are not forced to remain "in Him." pastor. "Why don't you come along Those who believe that once we are The New Testament is not without with David on his weekly visits ? We "in Christ" we can never be lost should record of those who denied their al- are going through a series of Bible refer to Titus 3:5, where the apostle legiance to Christ. Demas, "having studies which I believe you will find Paul declares of God that "according to loved this present world," forsook the interesting." His mercy He saved us." Does the apos- ministry, as also did Phygellus and Al's heart was almost too full to tle mean that God has saved each one of Hermogenes. 2 Timothy 4:1o; 1:15. Ref- speak. "Thank you, sir. I'll come." us beyond all possibility of failure ? Or erence is also made to "Hymenaeus and "Just call me Pastor Loring, and don't does he wish us to understand that Alexander," who "concerning faith have worry. I'm sure you can learn as fast as through the kindness and love of God made shipwreck." i Timothy :20, 19. David can. I'll be looking for you both our Saviour the Infinite One has opened The apostle Peter, too, employs the on Thursday night." up a way of redemption by which we strongest language in describing the That night in David's home Al Pres- may be saved? case of those who turn away from Christ ton sat down to a delightful meal. His We observe in verse 7 that, as a result to become entangled again in "the pol- table manners weren't very polished, but of what God has done in Christ, we are lutions of the world." "It had been bet- his face was aglow. made "heirs according to the hope of ter for them not to have known the way David's mother seemed to have every- eternal life." It must be clear, therefore, of righteousness," he declares, "than, thing in the world to make her happy that if we are heirs of "the hope of eter- after they have known it, to turn from these days, too. David had told her that nal life," we are not yet in possession of the holy commandment delivered unto he wanted to become a minister; and he 4t; we are not finally saved. Rather, our them." 2 Peter 2:20, 21. had offered to help Al with a corre- eternal life is being held in trust for us, The message is clear: We can know spondence course. She smiled happily to be bestowed upon us "at that day" that we are "in Christ," walking in the across the table at the two boys, for she when He appears in glory to reward way of salvation, having the hope of knew that her son had found his way His own. 2 Timothy 4:6-8. Even the eternal life. But, by the same token, we back and was bringing a friend along. apostle Paul—one of the saintliest men must never lose sight of the fact that we who ever lived—recognized that it was are secure only as long as we remain in possible for him, as well as for others, to Him. It is "Christ, who is our life," and Do You Know Christ? make shipwreck of faith and to become "severed" from Him we can "do noth- a castaway. 1 Corinthians 9:27. Accord- ing." Colossians 3:4; John 15:5, margin. (Continued from page 7) ingly he counsels us in 1 Corinthians even when the rended heavens reveal 10:12: "Wherefore let him that thinketh the coming of the Son of man, but now he standeth take heed lest he fall." we may have the Spirit's witness that Our salvation is conditioned by our Seventh-day Adventists we are the children of God. relationship to Christ. If we are in (Continued from page 9) The tragedy is that so few Christians Christ we have the hope of eternal life. antitypical high priestly ministry in know this. The majority of those who If we are not in Christ, we have "no heaven. They held that Christ had en- bear the name of Christ lack a sense of hope, and fare] without God in the tered upon the first phase of His minis- assurance. In many cases they are per- world." Ephesians 2:12. To quote the try at His ascension and, in line with plexed, confused, bewildered, and even apostle John again: "God hath given to the long prophecy of Daniel 8:14, that apprehensive about their experience. us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He had entered upon the second and They hope that all is well with their -÷ final phase on October 22, 1844. At the souls, but they are not confident that the close of this final ministry for mankind, thrilling miracle of a new life in Christ FILL IN, MAIL TODAY man's probation would end and Christ has been wrought in them. would soon return to resurrect the right- Such ought not to be the case. A son Circulation Dept., Pacific Press eous dead and translate the righteous knows that he is a son. People know Mountain View, California living. This view came to be generally when they are in love. A young couple PLEASE send the Signs of the accepted by the Sabbatarian group.' newly come from the altar know that Times for one year to the follow- Added to the distinctive teachings on they are married. Why, then, should we ing address. (United States and the Sabbath and the sanctuary, was a not know with equal certainty that "my Canada, $2.25; other countries, third, a belief that the gift of the spirit Beloved is mine, and I am His"? Song $2.75.) of prophecy was manifest in the person of Solomon 2:16. and writings of Ellen G. White. But There is, however, a danger against Date they maintained that these writings do which we must guard. Salvation is a not in any way supersede or add to the way of life in which we are walking. Name canon of Scripture, which the Advent- Christ said of Himself, "I am the way." Address ists considered complete and closed. John 14:6. If, therefore, our salvation Ellen White always and only called her- consists in walking in the way, it will self. -a "messenger," commissioned to for July 12, 1955 Page Thirteen

convey messages of comfort, guidance, day as the Sabbath. But, though slow, of church activities and interests. A new and reproof, her mission being to con- their growth was sure. impetus was also given to foreign mis- firm positions of truth and to expose In 1849 they began publication of their sion endeavor, which began to expand error, and ever to draw men back to the first paper, which was succeeded in 1850 rapidly into every section of the globe. Bible as the sole rule of faith and by The Advent Review and Sabbath Then, in 1903, the general headquarters practice. Herald, which ever since has continued were moved to Washington, D.C., and A nucleus had begun the observance to be their official church paper. Other further expansion followed. of the seventh-day Sabbath at Wash- periodicals followed. In 1855 headquar- In their world mission work all mis- ington, New Hampshire; the sanctuary ters were established in Battle Creek, sionary appointees are selected, sent out, position was being promulgated from Michigan, which marked their expansion and sustained by the General Confer- Canandaigua, New York; and spiritual beyond the borders of New England. ence, not by local churches or local gifts, with emphasis upon the spirit of Their publishing house at Battle Creek mission boards. Admission to church prophecy, were being stressed from Port- became, for nearly half a century, the membership is through baptism by im- land, Maine. Soon all three features center of their activities. Meantime, at a mersion; hence no infants or small chil- were blended in a slowly emerging conference in Battle Creek in Septem- dren are included in their membership church movement. In 1848 and 1849 a ber, 186o, the name "Seventh-day Ad- figures at home or abroad. The stand- series of Sabbath conferences were held ventist" was officially adopted, and in ards for membership are high as to that reaffirmed the distinctive doctrines May, 1863, a formal denominational manner of life, including complete ab- that were beginning to set these people organization was established, with a stinence from liquor and tobacco. apart as a separate religious group. Here constituency of 125 churches and 3,500 Their membership in North America, they crystallized their views into a har- members. In 1874 their first missionary, in 1953, was 275,733, and in other lands, monious body of teaching. At the outset John N. Andrews, was sent abroad. 649,089, or a total of 924,822 baptized the growth of this group was inevitably From 1855 to 1901 there was gradual members." The organization embraces slow—first, because of the general de- but steady growth in membership, insti- 11,158 local churches (and 18,448 Sab- rision in which all Adventists were held tutions, and foreign missions. Then a bath schools with 1,187,883 pupils) as a result of the mistake concerning the turning point was reached. At the Gen- grouped in 364 local conferences—these prophetic event to take place in 1844, eral Conference session of 1901, steps forming 68 union conferences, operating and because of the fictitious and ma- were taken to co-ordinate the various under 12 divisional organizations and licious stories of fanaticism circulated phases of church work and to set up a these in turn making up the general or concerning them; and, second, because well-integrated organization throughout world conference, with its headquarters of the economic and social handicap in- the world. Strong departments were at Takoma Park, Washington, D.C. herent in the observance of the seventh established to foster the various phases Seventh-day Adventists do not regard

INTEREST HIM IN THE BIBLE p444,,,,,e4 444 The Bible Pageant is "The Living Story of the Bible." The stories that never grow old are told "what will in language for today. THE BIBLE PAGEANT do For my child?"

,- TEACH HIM FUNDAMENTAL MORAL PRINCIPLES Lessons are instilled by reading the Book of books upon which the youth of today can build charac- ter for eternity. BROADEN HIS EDUCATIONAL HORIZONS The geography of Bible lands, ancient customs, dress, and living habits, as well as archaeologi- cal findings, take on new meaning. INSPIRE HIM TO NOBLER LIFE The Bible is filled with heroic stories. Most im- portant of all, youth are pointed to Jesus Christ, the greatest hero.

Gentlemen: PACIFIC PRESS Without obligation on my part, I would like to know PUBLISHING more about ASSOCIATION THE BIBLE PAGEANT SERIES.

Mountain View, Name California Address

Page Fourteen SIGNS of tile TIMES themselves as simply one more church because these are antagonistic to each body in the world, but as a prophetic other, so that you cannot do everything movement having the everlasting gospel to which you are inclined." (Wey- to proclaim in what they believe to be mouth.) The apostle then names "the the setting of "the hour of God's judg- works of the flesh," or "the doings of ment." They conceive their mission to our lower natures," and contrasts these be to help to prepare men for the sec- with the beautiful harvest of the fruit of ond advent of Christ. This explains the Spirit. This great change is brought their evangelistic zeal, displayed in both about through imparted righteousness, Christian and heathen lands, and the which gives us our fitness for heaven. large per capita contributions by their The experience of sanctification or members for the support of this world imparted righteousness is described in program. They are now operating in the following scriptures: "I am cruci- 197 countries out of the 230 listed in the fied with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet World Almanac and Statesman's Year- not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the book, employing 199 printed languages DEPT. B.C. life which I now live in the flesh I live and working orally in 525 additional "SIGNS OF THE TIMES" by the faith of the Son of God, who languages and dialects—or a total of 724 Mountain View, California loved me, and gave Himself for me." —with a force of 17,840 evangelistic Galatians 2:20. "But God forbid that I Name workers and 39,762 workers in all cate- PLEASE PRINT should glory, save in the cross of our gories." As a body they practice tithing, Street Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world in addition to freewill offerings, for the is crucified unto me, and I unto the support of the church. In 1953 these City Zone State world." Galatians 6:14. "There is there- totaled $60,412,194 ($36,648,876 in tithe fore now no condemnation to them and $23,763,318 in offerings) for the which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not work of the church." after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For In church polity they follow a highly the law of the Spirit of life in Christ representative form of church govern- Jesus hath made me free from the law ment. Sessions of their General Con- YOUR APPLICATION FOR ENROLLMENT WILL DE FOR- of sin and death. For what the law WARDED TO THE BIBLE CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL NEAR ference, constituted of delegates chosen YOUR ADDRESS. could not do, in that it was weak on a membership basis from the various through the flesh, God sending His own 4 Froom, op. cit., vol. 4, pts. 1 and 2. Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and component parts of the organization 5 Froom, op. cit., vol. 4, pt. 1, where the docu- throughout the world, are held quadren- mented sources are given. for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that 'Francis D. Nichol, "The Midnight Cry," chs. nially. Responsibility for all interim 25-27—a comprehensive and fully documented in- the righteousness of the law might be business is vested in a large executive vestigation; Joshua V. Himes, "The Outlook," Nov. fulfilled in us, who walk not after the 24, 1894, p. 875; Jane Marsh Parker, "A Little committee. The active administration Millerite," "Century" magazine, December, 1886, flesh, but after the Spirit." Romans 8:1-4. of affairs in the different division organi- p. 316. It is the privilege of a Christian to be 'Froom, op. cit., vol. 4, pt. 2; Arthur W. Spal- zations is conducted by the divisional ding, "Captains of the Host," chs. 6-8; Everett delivered from all feelings of guilt and committees, acting under the General N. Dick, "Dictionary of American Biography," vol. condemnation because of pardon from 12, art. "Miller, William." Conference. The divisions, in turn, are 8 Joseph Bates, "The Seventh Day a Perpetual the sins of the past and deliverance from Sign" (1846). the dominion of the sinful nature comprised of union conferences. And °Froom, op. cit., vol. 4, pt. 3; Joseph Bates, these, again, are made up of local con- "Waymarks and High Heaps" (1847). through the power of the Holy Spirit. " "1955 Yearbook of the Seventh-day Adventists. In the experience of imparted righteous- ferences—the smallest executive units in 1' Ibid. the system. ness Christ lives out His own life of " See "Constitution, Bylaws, and Working Policy" obedience and holiness in us because we Each administrative unit has officers (1949) ; "Yearbook" (1955), pp. 5-9. and an executive committee, and each have become partakers of the divine na- exercises a large degree of autonomy in ture. There can be no safety in a legal its operation. The local congregations religion or a form of godliness. Chris- select their own lay elders, deacons, and Growing in Grace tianity is not a modification or improve- various other officers to perform the (Continued from page 11) ment of the old, but a transformation of functions usually assigned to such offi- Christ's death, we are saved by His life. nature and a new life altogether. cers in Protestant churches. But all The plan of God embraces complete In this experience a new power takes regular pastoral supervision of churches victory over sinful tendencies and the possession of a new heart, and a change and districts is provided from the local power of the evil one. Christ came to is wrought which man can never accom- conference headquarters, which pays all "destroy the works of the devil" and to plish for himself. It is a supernatural ministers and other gospel workers from keep us from sinning. This is imparted work which brings a new element into a central fund." righteousness. human nature. The soul becomes the The struggle with the sinful nature fortress of Christ, which He holds in a (Next week: "The Beliefs and Practices and the completeness of victory through of Seventh-day Adventists") rebel world, and it is impregnable to all the agency of the Holy Spirit is described the assaults of Satan. The results of this LeRoy E. Froom, "The Prophetic Faith of Our in Galatians 5:16, 17: "Let your lives be experience are described in Isaiah 32:17, Fathers," vol. 3, pt. 2, and vol. 4, pt. 1, where full documentation and the source readings are found. guided by the Spirit, and then you will 18: "And the work of righteousness 2 Ibid., vol. 3, pt. 2. certainly not indulge the cravings of your shall be peace; and the effect of right- ,"The Universalist," Aug. 22, 1842 (vol. 3, No. 52), p. 416; "The Proceedings of the American lower natures. For the cravings of the eousness quietness and assurance for- Antiquarian Society" (1872), p. 45, puts it at 200,- lower nature are opposed to those of the ever. And My people shall dwell in a 000; John Bach McMasters, "A History of the Peo- ple of the United States," vol. 7, p. 136, also gives Spirit, and the cravings of the Spirit are peaceable habitation, and in_ sure dwell- 1,000,000 as the claimed number of adherents. opposed to those of the lower nature; ings, and in quiet resting places." for July 12, 1955 Page Fifteen DON CHANULEN

OR many months the great ma- proceeded. But a week later, when the just as they are. Not our dressed-up lives. chines had been at work on the slope had been brought down to ditch Not only our Sabbath-morning lives. Fnew superhighway being built level, the over-all effect was disappoint- Not alone our prayer-meeting lives. But across the floor of the valley. Fills and ing. Indeed, here was the eyesore of the our everyday lives. Our thoughts. Our cuts, underpasses and overpasses, bridges entire project. words. Our deeds. The high-spot words and culverts, drainage tile and power Two of the men, each with a good and the low-spot words. The high-spot lines, entries and exits, curve lines, slope "eye," had done presentable work. One deeds and the low-spot deeds. Our "on lines, and property lines. Vast, complex, with a tendency to go too deep had a grade" thoughts and words and deeds, and exacting is the detail of a modern series of gouges and saucers. Still an- and our "off grade" thoughts and words thoroughfare. other had a series of contrasting bulges, and deeds. Our public lives and our One of the features that sets off such despite repeated shavings and checkings private lives. Our home lives, our social a road is the graceful yet precise slope of with the straightedge. One. had come lives, and our business lives. All will be the "cuts." Usually this work is done by down too steeply, another not steeply revealed. All will be made manifest. machines—ordinary graders with their enough. Some had sloped four times as All will be visible there upon the bank "blades" swung out to one side in slop- much bank as had others. where we have been working. Every ing position. One man and one machine On the dusty roadway below, one of secret of our lives is known to God and can turn out much more work and do a the truck drivers hauling ballast for a will be brought into judgment. much better quality of work than can subgrade watched the whole proceeding There are many today whose basic many men working by hand. with more than usual interest. Up on law of life is, Can I get away with it? North of the river there was a place the slope each workman busy at his Many and dark are the deeds which are where the poles and bracing wires of daily task was portraying to the passing hidden from human sight and which two intersecting power lines studded a world a faithful picture of himself. Was therefore go unshamed and unpunished. long slope and made the use of a "slop- he a fast worker ? A slow worker ? Did Yet all are known to God. ing blade" impossible. One morning a he do superior work ? Mediocre ? In- Whether we like it or not, we are crew of men was brought out to the job, ferior ? Did he have a good "eye" ? A there, up on the roughed-out highway and the slow and difficult task of hand poor "eye" ? Was he afraid to shave cut, shoveling, jabbing, chipping, shav- sloping was begun. deeply enough ? Did he recklessly cut ing, scraping away the soil. This is our An experienced man at the controls of too deep ? Did he care about his work ? task. This is our day on the job. And a "blade" does highly uniform work. Passing one day while the foreman when our years in the sun have passed, But a dozen men, all of them more or and his men were battling a particularly when the grade has been brought down less inexperienced, are something else. difficult section of slope, the trucker to ditch level, it will be our work that As no two individuals look alike, so no recalled the words of an ancient writer: stands revealed. two have exactly the same "eye" for "Every man's work shall be made O friend, how about your life? What "level" or "angle." manifest: for the day shall declare it, does it look like, up there in the mak- And, of course, each man turned out because it shall be revealed by fire; and ing? What of your motives, your ob- a different amount of work. They were the fire shall try every man's work of jectives, your workmanship ? Do you given "guide lines," or "check grades," what sort it is." i Corinthians 3:13. care how it will look when it is fin- at regular intervals, and straightedges It is a sobering thought. There is to be ished ? Are you making it today as you to check their work constantly as they a time of testing. Our lives are to appear would like to have it . when it is done ? tz*