Newspaper Page Text
174
Original.
For the Index.
Incidents in a Pastor’s Life-
The Sixth hour and the eleventh ho Ur — lingering
illness and death of a faithful Deacon —tudden
death of an estimable Woman.
Brother Marlin: —The scene 9 of a ministers
life are indeed checkered. Joyful and mournful
events follow each other in sueh quick suc
cession that the tear starts to his eye, whilst
the expression of gratitude and delight yet lingers
upon his countenance. In one house he is
called upon to rejoice with them that rejoiced, in
another he must weep with those that weep.
These alterations of feeling I have recently expe
rienced in a degree most striking and impressive
in connection with ministerial labors for the Lex
ington Baptist church. I put them on record for
encouragement and for warning where these are
the lessons, and to perpetuate the virtues of an es
timable brother and sister in Christ.
On a recent monthly visit a beloved sister came
4o me with a face beaming with joy, t$ communi
cate the pleasing fact that her daughter had ob
tained a hope in the Saviour, and was desirous of
connecting herself with the church. It was wel
come news. I had known something of the in
tense solicitude of that, widowed mother for the
conversion of an only daughter, who was also an
only child. At the beginnig of the present year
she determined to consecrate a-portion of every
day to prayer to God for the conversion of her
cherished child. Every twilight for weeks and for
.months found her in accordance with her resolu
tion, wrpstiiog earnestly with God, pouring forth
her tears and her supplications for this object.
Though many weeks had elapsed, and more than
half the year had passed, and still, to all human
appearance, her prayer remained unanswered, her
resolution was unshaken, and she continued to
press her suit at a throne of grace. The time, at
length, arrived when like the Syro-phenician wo
man, her faith and perseverance were to be re
warded. On a certain Sunday evening her daugh
ter went to the bouse of God and heard the words
which were fastened on the conscience—destroy
ing her peace until she could trust in the merits
of Jesus Christ for salvation. It was a joyful Sab
bath morning to dial young convert, to her moth
er, to her pastor, and to the church, when Louisa,
having given her young heart to the Saviour, was
“buried with him in baptism.” This was the la
borer entering the vineyard at the sixth hour. Let
mothers be encouraged by this example to pray
for the conversion of their childre’n.
Immediately after the baptism of this young- di
sciple the church convened in the sick chamber of
an aged man, who felt that be must soon appear
in the presence of his Master, and who was deeply
anxious before that solemn meeting to discharge a
long neglected duty. He spoke nearly as follows:
“I am now nearly seventy-seven years of age,
more than fifty years ago, whilst attending a re
ligious meeting, T was made to feel my need of
Christ and to look to him for salvation, I have
never from that day been without some hope. But
fearful lest I might have been deceived, I have al
ways shrunk from making any profession of my
faith. But God has made, me feel now that I have
done wrong in not acknowledging him before the
world. I cannot dio contentlv without imitating
the example and obeying the command of my Lord
Jesus Christ.” Such was bis experience delivered
as be was lying upon his couch, expressed in trem
lous tones, and interspersed with sobs. The ques
tion was proposed and ho was unanimously re
ceived. The members present a proached the
bed and extended the hand of fraternal love. In
vain had friends remonstrated with him on the dif
ficulty and the danger of being baptized in his
feeble condition. In vain did others remind him
that God would not require the-act under such
circumstances; that the presence of the willing
mind was all sufficient to insure acceptance with
him. He turned from the first, saying that he
felt strong enough to obey Christ, and that if ne
cessarv he was wilting to die in the act. To the
suggestions of the others he replied that he must
do his duty. Towards the setting of the sun the
old man left the bed on which he had been con
fined for many days by protracting diease, rode
with his son to the appointed place, descended in
to the water and was immersed into the name of
his Saviour. When he returned home he said to
his friends that he felt better, both in body and
mind than he had been for several days. The last
time I met him he was rejoicing that God had
spared his life long enough to allow him to bear
his testimony, publicly to the truth. Here was
one going into the vineyard at the eleventh hour.
Let others he admonished not to procrastinate.
The difference of age in the candidates baptized
on this day was not less lhan sixty-two years—a
very extraordinary occurrence.
Mv next visit to Lexington was on a mournful
ooc ision. I was summoned on Saturday morning
Oceo’vt* ‘2 l -t. to attond the funeral of Deacon
Thomas R. Andrews, who .had died on the pro
ceeding dayy after protracted ilhness. Early in the
Spring bro. Andrews was smitten witfi paralysis,
which eventually terminated his life. Rarely has
it been my privilege to be associated with a nobler
man or a more conscientious and devoted Chris
tian. ne was oue of those men on whom a Pas
tor might depmd as perfectly reliable—ready to
co-operate with him in every good word and
work. Being quite comfortable as to temporals
be gave bis whole time to the interests of the
Church. If money was to be raised for benevo
lent objects, you might be sure of finding his name
on the list for one of the largest amounts. If a
,''rarer meeting was appointed he was one of the
men in attendance. It any good onterprize
was to be promoted he was always among those
who look the most active part and bore the hea
viest part of the burden. He was not like some
men, willing to work only in the “lead,” he was
ready and anxious to labor wherever there was
the slightest prospect of his being useful. I have
seen him at on# time participating in a prayer
meeting, at anothers, banding the element* in time
of communion, and again sweeping the churchy
lighting the lamps, building the fire, and ringing
the bell; doing the most menial as well as the
most dignified works promptly and cheerfully. .It
was emphatically true of him that he had rather
be a door-keeper in the house of God than to
dwell in the tents of wickedness.” When he died
the church was in tears, for we all felt that we had
suffered a severe loss. We dug his grave in the
chur#h-yard and desposited his remains along side
of that house of God to which his willing feet had
so often repaired and to whose interests he was so
constantly devoted. Most sincerely could he say :
“I love thy kingdom, Lord
The bouse of thine abode,
The church our blest Redeemer saved
With his own precious blood.”
Farewell! my beloved brother! The tears come
into my eyes as I think of thy many virtues and
remember that these are lost to a world in which
they are so much needed. I shall hope to meet
thee in the presence of that Jesus of whom we have
so often conversed.
But a few days after the grave of brother An
drews was dug, I was startled with the intelli
gence that sister Dupree, the wife of pur estima
ble brother, Hon. L. J. Dupree, bad died sudden
ly and under such circumstances as to render her
death peculiarly afflictive. The last time I saw
her was at her own hospitable table, to which she
was ever ready to welcome her friends, a duti
ful and affectionate wife, a fond mother, an exem
plary woman in all the relations of lift, her death
has created a chasm in many a circle, and many
hearts mourn her loss. May God supply bis con
solations for the bereaved ones and support them
in the hour of sore trial.
Such are the lights and the shades, and the joys
and the sadness which are occurring in ministerial
•xperience. On this sin-cursed earth, it must be
even so. But there is a world in which there will
be no shade and no sadness. Let us then, brush
the falling tear, and labor more diligently “to en
ter into that rest which remaineth for the people
of God. THEOPHILUS.
—.l ia#... -■ - y-
For the Index.
Dear Brother Ma r tin : —The Hightower Bap-,
tist Association in her minutes of 18S6, has pub
blished her abstract of principles. The sixth of
which reads thus ; “We believe in the election of
all God’s people, and that they are saved and call
ed according to his purpose and grace given them
in Christ Jesus before the world began.” And to
support this article a citation isjmade to 2d Tim,
1,9, and 2d Thess. 2, 13, and a quotation of one
of the verses.
There are-several propositions contained in this
article of the Hightower Association. The first pro
position is “the election of all God’s people.” The
second states “they are saved” — according to bis
purpose and grace —given them in Christ before
the world began. The third is that they are “call
ed” according to his purpose and grace given
them in Christ Jesus before the world began. Tho
fourth that this grace was given them “all - ” And
the fifth relates to the time when that grace was
given, that is before the. world began.
Now it is not my object to fall out wish my
brethren, but only to cal! their attention u> this
fact, that the text here cited do not prove those
propositions.
The -text relied on and cited, reads thus, ‘Hut
we are bound to give thanks always to God for
you brethren beloved of the Lord, because, God
hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation
through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of
tho truth.” 2d Tliessi 2--13. Now, however true
the propositions may be in themselves, it is quite
clear that they are not, proven by this -text. In
this text one class of Christians here represented by
the term “we” is giving thanks that another, class
here represented by the term “you” had been
chosen to salvation. It does not even affirm that
those represented in the term “we” are included
in the choice spoken of in the text —much less
does it include “all” God’s people. Indeed how
could it include those who had not believed when
it affirms that this choice was through the belief
of the truth. This choice then being exercised
through sanctification and belief of the truth could
not include any unbeliever or unsanctified person,
and of course could not include such as were yet
unborn, although they might become the people
of God through sanctification and belief of the
truth. And is worthy.of remark, that the apostle
uses such language as could be applied only to
persons then living. But I suppose considerable
importance is attached to the phrase “from the be
ginning.” Beginning of what ? Was it the be
ginning of the world ? then that portiou of the
sixth article now under consideration which says
“before the foundation of the world” is wrong, for
the'text says from the beginning and not “before”
it. Does it mean the beginning of the Gospel f
I suppose not, for John preaching in the wilder
ness of Judea, is said by Mark to be the “begin
ning of the Gospel,” that was confined to the Jews
and not preached in Greece, and.the text now un
der consideration, was adapted to the inhabitants
of a Greecian city, so that the “sanctification of the
spirit and belief of the truth” seems inseparably
connoted with the beginning, and so far as the
meaning of words is concerned, it would seem
that “chosen from salvation” “from the beginning”
“•aßCtificatioD of tho spirit” and “belief of the
truth” were contemporaneous in their application,
and Paul in his letter to the Ephesians 1-13 af
firms the same doctrine by saying “after ye be
lierved ye were sealed with the holy spirit.”
The other text 2d Tim. 1-9 reads thus, “Who
bath saved us and called us with a holy calling,
not according to our works but according to his
owu purpose and grace which was given ns in
Christ Jesus before the world began.”
Paul in speaking of the calling of the apostles
and connecting their salvation with the sub
ject cays who (that is God) hath saved us and
called us. ‘This text affirms the purpose and grace
THE CHRISTIAN INDEX
of God before the world began to call apostles to
the work here called a holy calling, and kfstructs
not to be ashamed of their But
their is nefaffirmatinn in the text mat
applied to “ad God’s people.” Indeed
guage used .excludes ail who had not lived HJhat
time. How cah it be affirmed of a man tithe
is saved or called before he is born.
“saved us.” My brethren say “all God’s people”
thus applying what is said of inspired apostles to
all Christians, and however true these propositions
may be in point of the ology, they are
not proven by the texts here quoted.
These remarks are made not to get into Contro
versy brethren, but because of tfy? well
known fact, that ministers of other denomuaations
read these abstract of principles,,apd repAjnt us
as having no other proofs than those w£ M e .and
when our brethren happen to cite insufficient
proofs, we are represented as holding doctrines
wholy untenable and unsustained by the'Scrip
tures. -s _ # |
Is it not therefore important that we wljo will
have a published creed to distinguish ourselves
from others, should when we point to the proofs
of our opinions refer to such as will sustab and
establish each proposition contained in the, Article
it is invoked to prove. BETHEL.
For the Index
Columbus Association-
Brother Martin :—I had the pleasure of attend
ing the session of the Columbus Association just
closed. It was a delightful session—among the
best it has ever been our privilege to enjoy.—
There was no excited debate —no unkind expres
sion—nothing to disturb the deep, broad river of
love which sseemed to bear all upon Us placid bo
som.
Bro. Durham was elected Moderator, and- well
did he discharge the duties, indeed, it has seldom
been our privilege to see a Moderator more prompt,
more courteous, or more kind. Thus harmony was
the more gratifying because.fears were entertain
ed that some exciting questions might be brought
in.
But to the praise of God’s grace be it said, that
while all were left to the enjoyment of their
private opinions, there was not even an allusion
to any distracting* question. I suppose that upon
some subjects there will ever be some diversity of
opinion, what a delightful spectacle to see breth
ren differing on these minor points, meeting in
concert, and upon principles which all approve
deliberating on the best plans for a consummation
which all good men desire. And what a delight
ful exhibition of Christian tolerance is that which
allows to all the enjoyment of private opinion
without dictation to any, and in the exercise of
which there may be wide indulgence without dis
turbing Christian fellowship. There was a strong
religious feeling pervading the meeting, and I
may safely say that a healthy influence will he
the result.
The closing scene was deeply affecting and all
seemed to regret that the hour of separation bad
arrived. The contributions were perhaps equal to
those of former sessions, and a growing attach
ment to the great cause of spreading the gospel
was distinctly discernable. It was painful to see
that some of the minist rs were prevented from
active labor by declining health; one had fallen,
,the lamented Granbury; but delightful to see sev
eral young men rising to fill their places, and some
who have been very useful in other fields moving
into the bounds of the Association.
Bro. DeVotie was called away by pastorial du
ty, but lie staid long enough to find his way to
the hearts of the brethren.
Long may these dear brethren be- frreserved,
and long may the Columbus Association maintain
her position in that great family now so earnestly
and prayerfully contending for a pure gospel at
home and abroad. Tam yet unable to preacji,
-bull hope the Good Master .will allow me tlje
privilege of doing something in some humble
way to promote his kingdom ou earth. Ned’ was
the name of the boy who blowed the Organ bel
lows for the choir in Columbus. Miss Emily with
‘unrivaled skill made the huge instrument speak in
deep, thriiiing tones while many a sweet , voice
swelling the tide of harmony filled the sanctuary
with the praise of God. Ned was accustomed $>
say to us, Mas. John dosent, we make * splendid
music. Poor Ned did nothing but blow the bel
lows, but still lie felt that he bad partin thesong.
We thank God that we are quite willing to blow
the bellows if we may but have part in the song.
Yours truly,
X E. DAWSON.
Powersvilie, Houston Cos.. Ga., Oct. 17, ’.56.
—9 -O- *
For the Index.
The Everlasting Covenant.
Leaving the cross of Christ as the starting
point, and having its divine light to illuminate the
way; we are conducted back beyond the creation
of the world’s into vast eternity, where God Al
mighty dwells with “clouds and darkuess round
about him.” There we behold him, not by nat
ural vision, but by the eyes of faith, in all his di
vine glory and personality as Father, Word and
Holy Spirit, united in essence, in purpose, and in
glory so as to constitute the one only true and liv
ing God. There we behold (he.eternal Fathe4
who “gave his only begotten Son that wosoever
believetli in him should not perish but have ever
lasting life.” The eternal word—the angel of the
Covenant—the lamb slain from the foundation of
the world, who visited and redeemed his . peo- le.
And the Holy Spirit, the great regenerator and
sanctifier of souls. ‘. l ■
Before those mighty worlds, that now roll in
infinite space, were brought into being, the glori
ous covenant of redemption was formed. The
purpose.was fixed—the plan devised—the bond
sealed—and all the terms ratified iu triune coun
cil. All was harmony and glory. There was no
conflicting of design—no difference of arrangement
—no division in council. All whs arranged and
established, “according to “the determinate council
and foreknowledge of God.” What ever were to
be developments of creation or providence—the
nnfoklings TtC tune—or the displays of grace; all j
were to meet upon Galyary for theirfulfilment,
mony and glory. And so full were the designs of
God, so complete the plans, so intricate bis knowl- j
edge, and so immovable his purposes, that the j
most insignificant as well ns the most stupeikTous
events were embraced in the covenant, and theii
accomplishment secured; evirt from.the fall of a
sparrow to the removal of the solar system; and
from the falling of a hair of the head of a disciple ot
Christ’s on earth, to (hereoutplete triumph in glo
ry of the most exalted of the redeemed. The re
covery of perishing sinners from their lost condi
tion—their preservation from apostaev —and their
final glorification in heaven, were all secured in
that covenant beyond the possibility of a failure.
All these things were established in reference to
the Mediatorial reign of Christ.
The cross of Christ therefore stands as the great
central orb of the covenant universe. Around it
revolves the infinite worlds of design—of creation
—of providence—pf redemption—-ofgrace and of
glory. Its divine light is imparted to all—its pow
er controls all—and all derive their glory from
it. -
Iu fulfilment of the terms of that covenant,
Christ, with power divine, brought the worlds into
-being, and set the vast machinery of nature in
motion ; John 1 : 1-3 ; Gal. 1 : 16 ;- lleb. 1:
1-3,10. He is to superintend and control them
all until the finale consummation of all things-, then
he shall remove them out of the was, wind up all
the affairs of. creation; and complete his media
tion; Heb. 1 : 1-3,8; Matt. 28: 18; lleb. 1 :
12; Second Peter 3 : 10; First Gr. 15: 24-
28.
What a doctrine is the doctrine of thecovenant!
In it the devout Christian finds ample support for
his hope. In it lie finds his own election in Christ
Jesus before the-world begm. Ephes 1:4; 2 Tim.
1: 9. ■ All the means are provided also for his re J
demption, preservation and glorification in heaven.
The saints of old believed in it and taught it; and
it will stand as a foundation principle in the creed
of the peoplg of God until the end of time.
J. M. W.
For the Index'. •
The New Arrangement.
Bro. Martin :—The communication of brother
Landrum in last week’s Index, placed me before
the Baptists of Georgia as prospective Editor of
that paper. I have accepted the position under
the influence of many misgivings J of mind, not to
say with fear and trembling. But as such breth
ren as Drs. Brantly and Dagg; Proffessors’ Tucker,
Williams, and Mel!; Rev to. John E, Dawson, Win
ston, Stitler, Teague and Flemming; Drs. Jos. S.
Baker and N. M. Crawford; the present Editor
and iiis worthy predecessors, besides manv Pastors
of Churches with whom 1 have not un intimate
acquaintance, will serve me articles for publica
tion, and otherwise give me their confiding and
hearty co-operation —wby,fthe Index ipjist live and
do good. -Could I suspect that I would not re
ceive such a general co-operation, I would even
yet deelfoeq As mutters now stand, the trial
will l>e made, unless Providentially prevented, and
the Ist. of ensuing January will deyelotpe tho be
ginning. . ’.JOS. R. WALKER.
Marion, Ala., Oct. 20th, 1856.
talar.
Not Sectarian.
Denominational, you may !>■; have a church,
a denomination, that you call yours; but do not
at this age of the world be sectarian. A dispo
sition that seeks to build up one’s own church and
denomination, without regard to other chinches
and denominations, ought never to bo indulged.
Christ prayed that His people “may all be one,”
as he and his Father are one. All denominations
of Christians are to endeavor to live, and tliev are
to help others to live. Cos operation to preach the
Gospel to every creature ought to lax-the watch
word, and Dot the shiboleth of partyistn. We are
journeying, Judah, Ephraim, Levi, Benjamin, all
the tribes, to the laud which the Lord hath said,
I will give it you. “Come thou with us and we
wiil do you good.” This should be the feeling of
all the churches and ministers of Christianity.
Be denominational; as a Christian have a home,
and don’t be always running away from it. Love
your church, and in faithfulness and love, seek to
build it. Do notfret against another’s church; do
not say any evil of another church. Do not car
ry a cold shoulder toward a follow disciple; love
him just as much as if be belonged to another de
nomination. This is right—duty—the better way.
Missions have tended greatly to unite denomina
tions. As Christians grow older, and become tat
ter, they are less sectarian. Progress is on the
right direction—let it go on. Let ell Christians
love one another—it is the law of Christ. And
let the true brotherhood of religion be cultivated
and cherished more and more. —Morning Star.
The use of his Name.
“You may use my name,” said a distinguished
man to one about to visit a certain place, “and
that will secure you* ad mission.” The visitor had
only to mention the name cf his distinguished
friend, and every attention was shown him.
The use of a great name is thus oftentimes a
matter of great importance in securing advantages
which could not otherwise be reached. But this
use is confined to a few. It is only to a very few
that the man of influence says, “you may use my
name.”
It is not so in regard to that name which is
above every other name. That name may be
used by all the redeemed. ‘ To every lost and
helpless sinner who desires holiness aud salvation.
Christ says, “You may us? my name.” This is
an all-prevailing name. ,
It secures at once access to a throne of grace.
Pardon is what the sinner needs. The Eternal
King is the only one who can pardon. Justice
and judgment are the habitation of his throne.—
The sinner cannot approach it without meeting
with the all-consuming frown.
When Christ permits him to use bis name, the
aspect of things is changed. The throne of judg
ment becomes a throne of graee to which the sin
ner has free access. The use of the Savior’s uame
secures his pardon. - - ~
It secures the enduring riches of eternity. Of
tentimes the name of a man will unlock the store
houses of wealth, and draw forth funds which
could not otherwise be obtained. The use of the
name of a successful man of business, has often
* j# “ 1 r 1 _ r 7 Z 1
made the fortune of the youthful merchant. The ’
use of the Savior’s name is far more efficacious, —
it gives a man a title to an inheritance Which
incorruptible, un defile*!. and which fad-th .
away. A man has only to go to God. an 1 i
mg use of the name of Christ, ask for a mansion
in lieaveireaml it will be given trim; - ••here .••£>
good which cannot .ta obta md by a-!; g m Ire
na inq of Christ. We have unqualified prem
ise of God to bestow upon us whaisovve: <• ask
in his name.
The use of this poweiful. name is offered to nil
penitent an l believing sinnem- How few there
are that avail themselves of the offer!
Christians do not use •>*’ freely : they ought
the privilege granted them. They do not-ask for
as many things as they are permitted jo asK for,
and they do not receive as many favorable an
swers as they would receive -did .they re!v wholly
upon that name. True, they profess to pre-ent
all their petitions in the name of Christ, but words
are sometimes used without realizing •ser>. •>)
the ideas they are intended to, Express. Wireo
we really make ttso of the none of Chri-t. our . -
tirions wiil never ! rejected. Truly this t s- •
all-prevailing name.—A r . F. Ohs.
Mysterious.
Some time in June last ambit wasout hunting
in Alannance county, near the road leading V>m
Mcbeane’s station to Yancey .file, and foil sums
north of the former place, when he stumbled ovre
a bundle lightly covered with leaves.
On examination, he found it to contain two
side shirts and a pair of silk drawers. Tire shirts
had rents in them as ifmarto with a dagger,
both shuts and drawers were covered with ‘-to- and,
then neariv fresh. They “wore hung upon a bu-h,
where they ‘continue, to lies fi.-ty.
We were passing the place last week, w h a >•.
received the account above given, and examine 1
these silent mementoes ofhome bloody deed. ’1 re
articles, though weather beaten, are in gore) pres
ervation. On the--drawers, tiic name “liios.
Jones, Tenn,” is printed in indelible ink; but
mark is drawn across this, and “J. Bruce” : : writ
ten in a large clear hand. One of the shirts ha
written on the silk border, in a beautiful sm;;:i
hand, the name “K. Walt <- is;” The opinion pre
vails in life neighborhood that a foul minder has
been ecmmii!ted; but no clue i as been discovered
to the mysteries; and the above comprises all that
is known of the affair.
These facts have not before been published; and
we pulfiish them now, because it is possible that
the names on the bloody garments may lead to
some discovery. Pass it around. —A r . P. Chris
tian Advocate.
~¥S isiiir
THURSDAY MORNING, OCT. 30.
OTAH u-rearegee are charged at $2 50 per annum,
or 5 cents per number. For ail payments in advance
the paper is furnished at §2 OQ per annum, or 4 tents,
.per number
“Our Mother.”
After years of severe-affliction Mrs-. Edna E.
Martin, wife of Dr. R. K. Martin, and daughter
of Vincent Sanford, breathed her- last in Grer-nes
boro, near one o’clock Tuesday morning sßth Inst.
She united with the Baptist Church in 1828 —
and sustained to her last hour the profession
which she had made, in a manner worthy the im
itation jpf her large circle of friends and relative,?.
-
Is it Honest
That professor of religion who will refuse the
payment of just debts, has very little, if any of the
Spirit of Christ, whose whole life was n striking
commentary on the precepts which He taught,
nis comm red upon this subject is, render unto
Ceasar the things which are Geasar’s. Owe no
man any thing, but to love one another. A
straight forward, upright.honest course, open and
fair dealing should ever be among the distinguish
ing features of every disciple of Jesus. We fear
however, that the temptations to leave this-straight.
road, sometimes prove too trying for the worldly
professor to resist.
Let us specify a few instances, in which the in
tegriiy of some members of tie church, may be
questioned. In our £hnt.e every tiiimiifoexpe? ed
to pay, bis proporlonial part towards deb tv. it.g the
expenses of the government. He is required Ire.
furnish a correct statement of tire value of the. pro
perty winch he owns. Suppose that lie owns ;■
large’ amount of land—and that’he is called tr “t
* .
by” the county officer lo render in its quality, and
that he should classify it in the lowest grad.?, nd
yet in a few days when attempli; r 4.-. pelt the
same, would not-only represent it as vary produc
tive, but surpassing in _ quality the finest ot the
country. In this case the command of Chri.-t
would not be followed, Ceasar vvotild not receive
his dues, and the man’s honesty could bo justly
questioned. Now we do not intend to bo the
judge of any one’s conscience—nor do we say that,
one in rendering in Ins property ceases to b Bon
est when failing to return as the value of property
tho amount for which it could be purchased.
The situation of many honest, minded men i :
such, that they would not dispose of their properly
for two or three times its value. It may b wnh
more'to them than any one else, this is not tho p u t
> o condemn, but the inconsistency in making one
representation when it is their interest—and quite
a different one, when a prospect of refill is affor
ded.
Our meaning will more fully appear from an
other illustration. A parent or husband dies lea
ving numerous debts—they were contracted for
those who are still alive, and it mav be that tho
articles purchased are stiil in the-possession of the
family. Common honesty would dictate the pro
priety of making full satisfaction if possible, even
though it reduce the hitherto affluent to a state >f
poverty. We have no fellowship for that professor
whose religiou will permit, him to retain that
which takings to a.nother, even though the h \v
allows it. The honesty of sueh will do to be rank
ed with that of those, who can. read a paper for
years and for some real or supposed offence ofjhe
editor or somebody else, orders it stopped, without
ever having paid a cent for the privilege.
A Modest Dtm.
We need money to pay for this paper,
jCIFAny person sending money to the Index
will please notice the receipts, and inform ns of
any errors that may occur in them.
The following we take from the Editorial of the
TicUyi'ous Herald The qu-.-fion proposed to the
f Editor wiil boSttifleVstood fr-m the reading of the
article. -1 is-ono ufo-sri’ there is, we sup
pre-re difference of Opinion-. Nuj intending to ex
press -my .yiiiifon either w-sty we introsluce the ar
•t\> to oiir 1 •id's, reserving remark's upon the
■"subjectfoi son..* funmvoecnifton.
“‘ V> v ■■ 11 h* i uecti];: when doctors disagree.’ was
tic- a}--.’ 10 pie; of A!, x .udev Rope; and we are in
like quandary; atfthi.-; is n uebutabk question, on
which a- o ■ divines, nature theologian*, and old
and et T.erienced •associations, -have widely differed
and art verse “and -i-ifion:. Wo have also, r.a
Eli hit in of Job, ventured an opinfoire
when the call has been made, as tn tS-’- pr; - eni it
stance. Other editors have done the same, yet
our so arches are! pa-tors differ, and foil stili dis
for i> their pi
; “This >s 1 the* -i di civ -• -■ thn there umi
| ally presented for the. decision of our associations,
i It ii.-s tin’*- >. be.efj, shah rerfoy into bur foi
!>'• fit: ; ■. s i- 1 ■"i Is■• - by Ikviofotpfis's, We
: ;-b.-ve t-at -i niAority <d onr chtirche- intius-and
other States. -:?! hi- J southwest, have decided
ngniest rocer-vmg eufo* .:?> s—sleee:tlieir
pr ve-is i..v:fii:l.orof no account. As we
Imv ‘ bofo--e .stated .-.•or opir? n in --reh ease;-coin
cides v ith this fie;-;-! in.
| “W? !>■•’! .v-. . :i vrlid foq'fo.-ni. icq,fires a
p - -V, ;t quail);-.-.i ‘ ?ije and a
j compiiimoo with the e-i enj.-i:tvrd, au i-nmere-ou iii
j -Avi 1 fa- i the name .. F .lit. Sn ! Holy Spit
, b. Apt -:.- . : -o,■t-iz-'.l a- mia.nialor i? on •
j who ‘on - ; -• ,bh re-b tillUl i red; titinTT>! in our
j vi; o, i • is Gil! et-i'opifo-o. ’ as bijcii, an uofi
1 tidUt -oOJ IQf o fi ‘ •re.iiuar.i.e,
: th ■ way Citri-a >” j- an. a-.d Lis, :■ parties prac
; ttsevi A tjn-’.tV.cd -übjee re ;i pniitoit belie-’ :•
i wliu b-iti ;• pe 1• o of.ld. . .-nfo .. a.e - ,•
psalvati nin ti - wbin* Qi course, as .
j ‘sprmkltng torpo a u.• u; •■'•joined; as the phru
denoting- tle Ac’ ; > bo done. Minifies <v fiio,
mere-e, iilertfib find figtiralively; and no lexi
: cographcrof not.- it as ever ventur and to give eit-ber
| to pour or ‘-pth.k ■>, r.r n,eu. in ;s o-”
j • bis ■. • evev Ire n “ddu-<-fi
j that the up-)?.:!.•*>. or tin ;r ‘;;cc*-ssors for hit:
’ dre : • e t-• rb- . ; .re-| j R ,s,. ,
by ifnntei- ;on. m- cp. 3 e-of icb- t
.dt. •!<-•• ?• > b iitv.dij. and only r*-sorted to
inctiscs of liec-ssitr, ne no tompfifo-’ ..
these Mtb'fifituo - for the .scriptural act, and to j-.
gard llios-- per;-, .s who have only beet: sprinkled,
j or cm whom water has Peon poured, as • - r unbtv)
ti/cd. If ;b,.y.>:ppty for admission, we should re
quire l hem to be immersed, r.s ,-t necessary pro
j requisite Fieirrectptioti. If immersed by a Po
j dobaptist friuiister, tfie qu-riiou is rsised, is he,
himself ttoba'ptizod, a q'. t Tied administrator, and
shall we recognize his administration of tho ordi
nance t is a valid act ? We think the proper con
elusion is, that lie is neither a qnnlifien nor au
thorized administrator, and his action is an invalid
one.
This is a different case, and one still more
difficult to decide. The administrator, so far as
immersion was concerned,, was a'qualified admin*
-istrator. The ,nr>piicant was-aiso baptlzetf in the
scriptural'way, o a profession of faith. Alt ririe
requirement d< inanded by the case, wonM seem
tofiiavc- ure--K.ui-t, ned no just* cause to exist for
rejecting tua pp;.vHn, or requiring a repetition of
bis or her baptism.
Now, whether *!•• fact that the immersed min
ister continues to official? in a Pwlobap ist.cburch,
and that the applicant luts been a member of sueh
a chtit cb, renders it incoirei-.ten’ and improper for
a .Baptist church to receive such applicant, on his
or hoi pre.‘-;ous baptism, ts one of the questions
’ U whtch th-.-re will I’- -a- differouce. Their course
has iimdoululy been m: irrc-gtffar one. They “have
communed with m>baptized persons, when they,
knew baptism wns n.jvre-requisite. They have re
mained members of 3 church, guilty of displacing
by an unauthorized substitute, ap ordinance of
tlieir Saviour-, and by tlieir preset.ce and participa
tion, given countenance to t> is.violation of a posi
tive command. If wiHihg, hr. iag acted thus ir
regularly. we should urge such applicant to be
ptoporiy baptized, but if avers? to such a course,
we. are not prepared to say that it would be either
inconsistent or improper to receive such applicant;
bui a portion of the mombership objecting, from
conscientious scruples, we certainly-should think
it unwise and inexpedient to -recede to the request.
Extract of a Letter to oue cf the Editors cf
the Journal cf Commerce from a Friend iu
Virginia
My Dear Air - -I have thought H would be
well to fin ward't-- you tho recent action of llano-,
ver Presbytery ot: re “übjeetof slavery. Tho dis
cussion tfoh pr... <1 tire- passing of the resolu
tion so-so”- . ws nfinohnl with earnest prayer for
1): vi• -.• f.nild ; (■*. nd <!te i-eruit finrdlv reached
-.-. res -b miveriiivs e.-nrurn-r.ee of Prcsbyterv in
the foing iiiul :
i “Rev.-rixi. 4 hut this I’lesuyfory, after a solemn
i and prayerful eeusiqeraFuu of tho subject, and
with a deep sense of .tlieir responsibility, express
their decided disapprobation of tse. continued agi
tation cf the subject ufsbreer. in tho General As
sembly, ands el tjiat reo-thrre. has come v-heti the
interests ■ f our tiiur li at Rue South, should this
subject- be further agi treed, requires at our hands’
acouti? which, how-ever paitiful must result iu out
sepx'rstjkin-from the General Assem'dy. And we
requf.t fo'c'b; tgrtes re.mp.atbi.-ing with us. in case
lire question i- again --'.Stated in the General As
seirfov to unite with tnif. Presbytery in the csta'o
]tf 1 meet of Foutlre-in “reshyterian Church.”
Prcsbylery. also, by “.nanimous vote approved
-• course of its Comm p.rioners to tho late Gener
< rnl Assembly, Such, dear sir, is our position,
• and lotto- point w ’ have at length arrived. And
1 linisj. cuntess that .in vote was recorded with
the other l/rethien, mid that n;y voice speaks in
| these resolutions. Xtr is. there any inconsistency
in this, utterance, with what you heard last year
at this. time. I still love the whole church and tho
wl’.ofo country; aud'tiiy most earnest desire and
pta*<.ri-, l,h and tl.s integrity oi’ both mav be preser
ve 1 . Xm l ive T for - jtteu my declaration that
‘.he nnlr.ti o tie, Cr.u*’ ;& North uud South was
Ihe n rein-safeguard f- ■■ ho continued Union of the
Sttflc-s. I still foxi- (t M.mderi-ug of the strong
‘-its 0: religions sympathy and’ fellowship may
giot!v Vo:.-ken tire-re golirica! bauds which, in
these ti'onbhmstimesre;eem every moment ready
to part. But there is a point where forbearance
ceases to be ti virtue, and .th re is somt-tiims 3
contji'imi of things where the pence of families can
only be rcciired m a voktary separation. T con
ceive that in our Church we have rq.proacliep that
point ami that condition. And if there is to be an
estoppel put upon the offensive agitation of this
subject-of slavery in the General'Assembly, it does
appear to me that this is, the time. After a full
year’s study, consultation, and labor, a large and
able Committee bace.brought in a report on the
constitutional power of the Genera! Assembly, and
! that report by a large majority has been formally
[ And-solemnly adopted. Now without expressing
j any opiuion upon,this report, this much I may say,
j that if our Northern brethren will be content with
;i what is practable and constitutional under their
October