New York, 1895
The religious war which is being waged in Babylon is still on, and, according to the statements of Evangelist Cressey and his associates, who are leading the crusade against the devil, it has not reached its height yet. Another open-air meeting was held Tuesday morning, and the attendance was larger than at any previous meeting. The number of converts made, it is claimed, shows a gradual awakening among backsliders, and those who have been scoffers at religion are silent. Evangelist Cressey says that before he leaves the town he will visit the home of every family in Babylon and hold a special prayer meeting at each home. If an entrance to any of the houses is refused, as a number of people have declared it will be, he says he will kneel outside on the cold ground and offer up a prayer for the inmates' conversion.
—The Long Island Farmer, Jamaica, NY, Feb. 22, 1895, p. 1.
Showing posts with label devil. Show all posts
Showing posts with label devil. Show all posts
Monday, May 26, 2008
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Unlucky Peacock Feathers
1905
Peacock's feathers are said to bring ill luck. The origin of this tradition is interesting. It is found in Palgrave's work on central and east Arabia, where the traveler says that, according to Mohammedan tradition, the peacock opened the wicket of Paradise to admit the devil, received a very ample share of the devil's own punishment.
Hindu Customs
It is in order that sons may perform the father's funeral ceremonies each year that it is ordained that the son shall inherit the father's property. It is a rule of our faith that by the son's performance of such acts the father obtains heaven. For this reason, if he has no male child, the father will adopt a boy in order that, after his own death, his funeral ceremonies may be performed by the adopted son. — Mysore Standard, Bangalore.
Visions
It was the woman who dreamed that her husband had given her the goods for a new gown who waked to a realizing sense of what the poet meant by "the baseless fabric of this vision."
Peacock's feathers are said to bring ill luck. The origin of this tradition is interesting. It is found in Palgrave's work on central and east Arabia, where the traveler says that, according to Mohammedan tradition, the peacock opened the wicket of Paradise to admit the devil, received a very ample share of the devil's own punishment.
Hindu Customs
It is in order that sons may perform the father's funeral ceremonies each year that it is ordained that the son shall inherit the father's property. It is a rule of our faith that by the son's performance of such acts the father obtains heaven. For this reason, if he has no male child, the father will adopt a boy in order that, after his own death, his funeral ceremonies may be performed by the adopted son. — Mysore Standard, Bangalore.
Visions
It was the woman who dreamed that her husband had given her the goods for a new gown who waked to a realizing sense of what the poet meant by "the baseless fabric of this vision."
Friday, July 13, 2007
The Personal Devil
Arizona, 1907
"Hindrances of Satan" was the theme of Rev. Harold Govette of the Central Methodist church. His text was, "But Satan hindered us." 1 Thessalonians 2:18.
"There is no doubt about it," said Mr. Govette, "but what there is a personal devil. I believe this just as much as I believe there is a personal God. And I believe there is a personal God just as much as I believe that I myself exist. I believe that Satan is engaged and has been for some time in upsetting the affairs of God and man and in causing trouble generally. Some people say that if anything is of God it is bound to succeed, and Satan will not be able to hinder. But this is not according to God's word. For ever since he stirred up trouble in heaven, he has been trying to blast the designs of God and in every way thwart His plans.
"It was doubtless the purpose of God in the first place that our first parents should live together in a state of perpetual happiness, and that no sin, pain or sorrow should exist at all. But Satan hindered God in the promotion of happiness and caused man to sin and fall. However, God in wisdom and mercy counteracted the fall by the introduction of redemption through His Son Jesus Christ, and thus brought to pass through Christ what could not have been brought to pass if man had not fallen.
"Thus the desire and purpose of the apostle Paul to visit again the church at Thessalonica, to encourage and stimulate the faith of the brethren, were interfered with by Satan. And it was his hindrances which caused the apostle to pen the words of the text, 'Satan hindered us.' While Satan may hinder us in our endeavor to serve God and to our purpose to do good, yet if our faith in God and His promises be firm through the help that comes from God we shall finally succeed, and our faith will be the stronger and our hopes brighter and our spiritual life be much increased because of the hindrances met and overcome.
"Whenever God or man attempts anything worthwhile we may rest assured that Satan is going to throw some obstruction across our pathway. But the thing for the Christian to do when obstacles appear is not to look back but to seek strength from the strong arm of God and prepare to overcome. These hindrances should serve to strengthen us in our spiritual life, as the storm strengthens the fiber of the oak. Satan is strong, but God is stronger, and the cause of His Son will finally triumph, not only in Phoenix, but throughout the world."
The speaker here told of an incident where Mr. Finney, the professor of Oberlin, was once on his way to a certain city to help in a revival meeting, being conveyed by horse and buggy. He asked the driver if the horse was safe. He was assured that it was the old family horse and there was none safer, but Mr. Finney stated that he was much afraid Satan would get into the horse and hinder their progress. The driver laughed at such. However, before going far the horse took fright and it was with much difficulty and danger that they reached their destination. But on reaching the city in question God blessed the labors of Mr. Finney with great success, and almost the whole of its population was turned to Christ.
"My faith in God and my congregation is such that I am confident that such a thing as a landslide will not deter the progress of our meeting," said Mr. Govette in referring to the delay in the arrival of Rev. Dr. Bulgin, caused by a landslide.
At the close of the morning sermon there were two accessions and the pastor announced that the meetings would go ahead until the evangelists put in an appearance.
—The Arizona Republican, Phoenix, March 11, 1907, p. 4.
"Hindrances of Satan" was the theme of Rev. Harold Govette of the Central Methodist church. His text was, "But Satan hindered us." 1 Thessalonians 2:18.
"There is no doubt about it," said Mr. Govette, "but what there is a personal devil. I believe this just as much as I believe there is a personal God. And I believe there is a personal God just as much as I believe that I myself exist. I believe that Satan is engaged and has been for some time in upsetting the affairs of God and man and in causing trouble generally. Some people say that if anything is of God it is bound to succeed, and Satan will not be able to hinder. But this is not according to God's word. For ever since he stirred up trouble in heaven, he has been trying to blast the designs of God and in every way thwart His plans.
"It was doubtless the purpose of God in the first place that our first parents should live together in a state of perpetual happiness, and that no sin, pain or sorrow should exist at all. But Satan hindered God in the promotion of happiness and caused man to sin and fall. However, God in wisdom and mercy counteracted the fall by the introduction of redemption through His Son Jesus Christ, and thus brought to pass through Christ what could not have been brought to pass if man had not fallen.
"Thus the desire and purpose of the apostle Paul to visit again the church at Thessalonica, to encourage and stimulate the faith of the brethren, were interfered with by Satan. And it was his hindrances which caused the apostle to pen the words of the text, 'Satan hindered us.' While Satan may hinder us in our endeavor to serve God and to our purpose to do good, yet if our faith in God and His promises be firm through the help that comes from God we shall finally succeed, and our faith will be the stronger and our hopes brighter and our spiritual life be much increased because of the hindrances met and overcome.
"Whenever God or man attempts anything worthwhile we may rest assured that Satan is going to throw some obstruction across our pathway. But the thing for the Christian to do when obstacles appear is not to look back but to seek strength from the strong arm of God and prepare to overcome. These hindrances should serve to strengthen us in our spiritual life, as the storm strengthens the fiber of the oak. Satan is strong, but God is stronger, and the cause of His Son will finally triumph, not only in Phoenix, but throughout the world."
The speaker here told of an incident where Mr. Finney, the professor of Oberlin, was once on his way to a certain city to help in a revival meeting, being conveyed by horse and buggy. He asked the driver if the horse was safe. He was assured that it was the old family horse and there was none safer, but Mr. Finney stated that he was much afraid Satan would get into the horse and hinder their progress. The driver laughed at such. However, before going far the horse took fright and it was with much difficulty and danger that they reached their destination. But on reaching the city in question God blessed the labors of Mr. Finney with great success, and almost the whole of its population was turned to Christ.
"My faith in God and my congregation is such that I am confident that such a thing as a landslide will not deter the progress of our meeting," said Mr. Govette in referring to the delay in the arrival of Rev. Dr. Bulgin, caused by a landslide.
At the close of the morning sermon there were two accessions and the pastor announced that the meetings would go ahead until the evangelists put in an appearance.
—The Arizona Republican, Phoenix, March 11, 1907, p. 4.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
"The Old Scratch" (Antique Advertisement)
1905
How the Evil One Came to be Popularly Known as "The Old Scratch"
One of the many familiar names of his satanic majesty is "The Old Scratch." It is undoubtedly due to the fact that scratching is so disagreeable that people thought it no worse than the evil one.
A scalp full of dandruff keeps one scratching all the time: not only disagreeable but considered very inelegant in polite society — as it should be — because one ought to keep the scalp so clean that it would not itch.
To cure the scalp of dandruff effectively, use Newbro's Herpicide. It kills the germs that creates the dandruff, which is preliminary to falling hair, and finally baldness. No other hair preparation kills the dandruff germ. Herpicide also is a very delightful and effective hair dressing.
Sold by leading druggists. Send 10c in stamps for sample to The Herpicide Co., Detroit, Mich. H. Goodman, druggist, special agent.
How the Evil One Came to be Popularly Known as "The Old Scratch"
One of the many familiar names of his satanic majesty is "The Old Scratch." It is undoubtedly due to the fact that scratching is so disagreeable that people thought it no worse than the evil one.
A scalp full of dandruff keeps one scratching all the time: not only disagreeable but considered very inelegant in polite society — as it should be — because one ought to keep the scalp so clean that it would not itch.
To cure the scalp of dandruff effectively, use Newbro's Herpicide. It kills the germs that creates the dandruff, which is preliminary to falling hair, and finally baldness. No other hair preparation kills the dandruff germ. Herpicide also is a very delightful and effective hair dressing.
Sold by leading druggists. Send 10c in stamps for sample to The Herpicide Co., Detroit, Mich. H. Goodman, druggist, special agent.
Likeness of the Devil
1905
The hobby of the late Col. Blumenthal was "the collection of devils," says an English exchange. He devoted himself to collecting all sorts of representations of his satanic majesty, and he secured about 350 likenesses of the devil on canvas, and in marble, wood, bronze and ivory.
St. Patrick's Wondrous Faith
Nor was Patrick an ordinary Christian. Savages and cannibals surround him with threats and with assault. He knows not fear. Hunger and want stare him in the face. Idolatry and witchcraft oppose him. But his will is inflexible; his heart impregnable; his faith strong and mighty. Thus he labored on, making his own life a living proof of the reality of the gospel whereby he overthrew fetishism and heathenism and saved a mighty nation.
And here is the secret of it all, in his own words: "The love and fear of God more and more inflamed my heart. My faith and my spirit were enlarged, so that I prayed a hundred times a day, and nearly as much at night. Before the light I arose to my prayers, in the snow, in the frost, and in the rain, and experienced no evil at all. Nor was I affected with sloth, for the Spirit of God was warm in me."
The hobby of the late Col. Blumenthal was "the collection of devils," says an English exchange. He devoted himself to collecting all sorts of representations of his satanic majesty, and he secured about 350 likenesses of the devil on canvas, and in marble, wood, bronze and ivory.
St. Patrick's Wondrous Faith
Nor was Patrick an ordinary Christian. Savages and cannibals surround him with threats and with assault. He knows not fear. Hunger and want stare him in the face. Idolatry and witchcraft oppose him. But his will is inflexible; his heart impregnable; his faith strong and mighty. Thus he labored on, making his own life a living proof of the reality of the gospel whereby he overthrew fetishism and heathenism and saved a mighty nation.
And here is the secret of it all, in his own words: "The love and fear of God more and more inflamed my heart. My faith and my spirit were enlarged, so that I prayed a hundred times a day, and nearly as much at night. Before the light I arose to my prayers, in the snow, in the frost, and in the rain, and experienced no evil at all. Nor was I affected with sloth, for the Spirit of God was warm in me."
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
The Prophetic Gift
1908
That there are persons to-day who possess the somewhat uncanny gift of being able to predict future events is probably true.
The wife of the late Sir Richard Burton, the famous traveler and linguist, not to mention other instances of her weird gift, announced the very first time she saw Burton, at the time a perfect stranger whom she had met quite casually, that he would be her husband.
At the present moment, too, there is said to be in America a man who has manifested such an extraordinary faculty of predicting things that are about to take place that a number of medical men have purchased the reversion of his brain, in order that they may examine that organ after death to see if it shows any special development to account for its wonderful gift. — The Grand Magazine.
Diabolo In The Past
More diabolo discoveries. In the National Library at Paris are two prints, one entitled "The Game of Diabolo at the Beginning of the Last Century;" the other entitled "The Devil for Four (the old diabolo." Two couples are playing diabolo excitedly in a room; the furniture is upset and the mirrors broken.
Another design is entitled: "The Good Devil, How He Goes!" A young woman throws a big, simple fellow in the air, and from his pocket fall pieces of gold. In the same picture is another woman, with her diabolo cord round the neck of a man, with the inscription below: "See how we lead them!"
Diabolo raised a furor in France in 1812. It was then, according to the Figaro correspondent, imported from England, and an English caricature of a later date represents a great Wellington sending to St. Helena's a very little Napoleon riding on a diabolo.
Long before the revolution of 1789 some missionaries in Peking sent an exact reproduction of diabolo to a French minister of state who collected Chinese curiosities. The Chinese are always found to have forgotten everything we are beginning to learn! — Dundoo Advertiser.
That there are persons to-day who possess the somewhat uncanny gift of being able to predict future events is probably true.
The wife of the late Sir Richard Burton, the famous traveler and linguist, not to mention other instances of her weird gift, announced the very first time she saw Burton, at the time a perfect stranger whom she had met quite casually, that he would be her husband.
At the present moment, too, there is said to be in America a man who has manifested such an extraordinary faculty of predicting things that are about to take place that a number of medical men have purchased the reversion of his brain, in order that they may examine that organ after death to see if it shows any special development to account for its wonderful gift. — The Grand Magazine.
Diabolo In The Past
More diabolo discoveries. In the National Library at Paris are two prints, one entitled "The Game of Diabolo at the Beginning of the Last Century;" the other entitled "The Devil for Four (the old diabolo." Two couples are playing diabolo excitedly in a room; the furniture is upset and the mirrors broken.
Another design is entitled: "The Good Devil, How He Goes!" A young woman throws a big, simple fellow in the air, and from his pocket fall pieces of gold. In the same picture is another woman, with her diabolo cord round the neck of a man, with the inscription below: "See how we lead them!"
Diabolo raised a furor in France in 1812. It was then, according to the Figaro correspondent, imported from England, and an English caricature of a later date represents a great Wellington sending to St. Helena's a very little Napoleon riding on a diabolo.
Long before the revolution of 1789 some missionaries in Peking sent an exact reproduction of diabolo to a French minister of state who collected Chinese curiosities. The Chinese are always found to have forgotten everything we are beginning to learn! — Dundoo Advertiser.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Watch!
1874
There is no period in a Christian's life without peril of sin. A wily foe attends his steps, watching with sleepless vigilance for opportunities which may be made occasions for his fall. The only security for the child of God, therefore, throughout his entire pilgrimage, is in unrelaxing watchfulness. As the citadel is only secure against surprise and capture, when faithful sentinels, with pauseless step, pursue their steady tread along its walls and before its gates, so, the soul, the temple of the Holy Ghost, is alone impregnable against the Prince of Darkness when all its powers, clad in Gospel mail, guard every avenue, with incessant vigilance, against the entrance of evil.
But there are seasons of peculiar jeopardy, when unusual perils beset the Christian, and so insidiously, as to threaten his safety with more than ordinary promise of success. We are passing through such a season now, and there is need of the note of warning which we sound from the head of this article. We have seen and heard enough already to satisfy us that without great caution, the Adversary will gather rich spoils from the present "panic." The scarcity of money will be a strong temptation to many to disregard the sacred obligations by which they are bound to support the cause of God in its various departments. The pressure is so great, the future so threatening, the necessity for retrenchment so imperious, and "withholding more than is meet" so much more consonant with natural inclination, than the self-denial which enhances the gifts we lay upon God's altar, that, without weariness, many good people will be seduced into the sin of "robbing God" who would shrink from wilfully bringing upon their souls so grievous a crime. This is the supreme peril of the times; let Christian people guard against it. Be sure that you are personally cramped by the prevalent stringency, before you make it a plea for withholding your dues from the Church or the claims of charity.
If really straightened, see to it that personal gratification is postponed to the claims of Him whose steward you are. It is right to be provident, but it is safe to give when the cause of God presents its claims, so long as there is anything with which to respond to its demands. The widow of Sarepta passed a "crisis" incomparably more trying than any we experience or are ever likely to encounter; and passed it safely, by dividing her scanty store with the prophet of the Lord. There is infinitely greater danger of damaging your soul by treacherous dealing with duty, than there is of impoverishing yourself by excessive contributions to the Lord's treasury. "Take heed then, and beware of covetuousness," which has a powerful ally in the present monetary stress. There is blessing or disaster for us in these trying times, according as we use them. Let us watch against the evils they threaten, and enrich our experience with all the spiritual benefits they are capable of yielding.
There is no period in a Christian's life without peril of sin. A wily foe attends his steps, watching with sleepless vigilance for opportunities which may be made occasions for his fall. The only security for the child of God, therefore, throughout his entire pilgrimage, is in unrelaxing watchfulness. As the citadel is only secure against surprise and capture, when faithful sentinels, with pauseless step, pursue their steady tread along its walls and before its gates, so, the soul, the temple of the Holy Ghost, is alone impregnable against the Prince of Darkness when all its powers, clad in Gospel mail, guard every avenue, with incessant vigilance, against the entrance of evil.
But there are seasons of peculiar jeopardy, when unusual perils beset the Christian, and so insidiously, as to threaten his safety with more than ordinary promise of success. We are passing through such a season now, and there is need of the note of warning which we sound from the head of this article. We have seen and heard enough already to satisfy us that without great caution, the Adversary will gather rich spoils from the present "panic." The scarcity of money will be a strong temptation to many to disregard the sacred obligations by which they are bound to support the cause of God in its various departments. The pressure is so great, the future so threatening, the necessity for retrenchment so imperious, and "withholding more than is meet" so much more consonant with natural inclination, than the self-denial which enhances the gifts we lay upon God's altar, that, without weariness, many good people will be seduced into the sin of "robbing God" who would shrink from wilfully bringing upon their souls so grievous a crime. This is the supreme peril of the times; let Christian people guard against it. Be sure that you are personally cramped by the prevalent stringency, before you make it a plea for withholding your dues from the Church or the claims of charity.
If really straightened, see to it that personal gratification is postponed to the claims of Him whose steward you are. It is right to be provident, but it is safe to give when the cause of God presents its claims, so long as there is anything with which to respond to its demands. The widow of Sarepta passed a "crisis" incomparably more trying than any we experience or are ever likely to encounter; and passed it safely, by dividing her scanty store with the prophet of the Lord. There is infinitely greater danger of damaging your soul by treacherous dealing with duty, than there is of impoverishing yourself by excessive contributions to the Lord's treasury. "Take heed then, and beware of covetuousness," which has a powerful ally in the present monetary stress. There is blessing or disaster for us in these trying times, according as we use them. Let us watch against the evils they threaten, and enrich our experience with all the spiritual benefits they are capable of yielding.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Men Try to Beat Devil Out of Boy
1914
Holy Roller Preacher and Two Illinoisans Accused of Assault
Lad Sustains Broken Arm
Cousin, With Club, Ends Attack After He Is Seriously Injured — Fanatics in Jail Try to Pray the Prison Doors Open
Murphysboro, Ill., Feb. 10. — Noah Hickman lies at the point of death at his home in the foothills of the Ozarks, in Jackson county, as the result of flogging and trampling he suffered when he refused to accept the Holy Roller faith. Dolph Hickman, young Hickman's father, Walter Ellis and Adam Cripps were arrested on the charge of assault. Cripps was released on $500 bond.
Friday night the Holy Rollers held an all-night meeting at the Hickman home. Young Hickman, who is an epileptic, was told that he was possessed of evil spirits, and the Holy Rollers said they would trample the demons out of him.
Cousin Halts Attack
Hickman's father, one of his sisters, Ellis and Cripps bore their victim to the floor after flogging him and trampled on him. He sustained a broken arm, a dislocated shoulder and several internal injuries. The arrival of Tom Hickman, the boy's cousin, with a club ended the attack.
The Holy Rollers have held all-night prayer services at Macedonia, Dutch Ridge, Poplar Ridge and other remote centers in the hills. Some of them have killed off swine and let them die in the woods as things unfit to touch. The district is aroused and will try to stamp out the faith.
The Holy Rollers in the Jonesboro jail are attempting to pray the prison doors open.
Holy Roller Preacher and Two Illinoisans Accused of Assault
Lad Sustains Broken Arm
Cousin, With Club, Ends Attack After He Is Seriously Injured — Fanatics in Jail Try to Pray the Prison Doors Open
Murphysboro, Ill., Feb. 10. — Noah Hickman lies at the point of death at his home in the foothills of the Ozarks, in Jackson county, as the result of flogging and trampling he suffered when he refused to accept the Holy Roller faith. Dolph Hickman, young Hickman's father, Walter Ellis and Adam Cripps were arrested on the charge of assault. Cripps was released on $500 bond.
Friday night the Holy Rollers held an all-night meeting at the Hickman home. Young Hickman, who is an epileptic, was told that he was possessed of evil spirits, and the Holy Rollers said they would trample the demons out of him.
Cousin Halts Attack
Hickman's father, one of his sisters, Ellis and Cripps bore their victim to the floor after flogging him and trampled on him. He sustained a broken arm, a dislocated shoulder and several internal injuries. The arrival of Tom Hickman, the boy's cousin, with a club ended the attack.
The Holy Rollers have held all-night prayer services at Macedonia, Dutch Ridge, Poplar Ridge and other remote centers in the hills. Some of them have killed off swine and let them die in the woods as things unfit to touch. The district is aroused and will try to stamp out the faith.
The Holy Rollers in the Jonesboro jail are attempting to pray the prison doors open.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Evangelist: Can't Be 50-50, Christ or Devil, Mark of the Beast
Ohio, 1921
Methodist Meetings
Evangelist Changes Style in Handling of Sermon Subject — Splendid Attendance
Evangelist Birney has changed his style somewhat at the revival meetings at the First M. E. Church. Always earnest and persuasive, he has taken on new energy of expression and new earnestness of appeal as he approaches the end of his engagement here. Last night he based his sermon on several passages in the book of Revelation, which speak of the marks of the beast upon the hand and the forehead. It was an earnest appeal for an out and out immediate decision for Christ.
He said in part: "Those who received the mark of the beast in these highly figurative passages were marked for destruction. They bore the marks of hell upon their hand and upon their forehead. Those who did not bear the marks of the beast were those who had chosen Christ and would be saved in the day of wrath. They were all marked for salvation or for destruction — for heaven or hell. So it is to-night. There is no such thing as a third class. All are either marked with the mark of the beast or of the Lamb. There is no neutrality, no neutral class. There is no such thing as a fifty-fifty Christian. Just as there was no such thing as a fifty-fifty American during the war so there is no such thing as a fifty-fifty Christian as long as the war against sin is on. You are for Christ or the beast.
"You cannot sidestep and play fast and loose with the devil. You may say 'Good God, good devil,' but it deceives no one but yourself. 'Choose you this day whom you will serve,' — but don't imagine you can serve both God and the devil at the same time. Everyone in the congregation is either on the road to heaven or on the road to hell and it is up to you to decide which it will be. O, why do you take any chance, my brother? You may leave this building undecided and never have another chance to throw off the mark of the beast. Which side are you on? Whose mark is on you? God help every one here to choose heaven and to avoid hell. Why not decide now? Choose ye, choose ye. Don't try to be a fifty-fifty Christian, but come out on the Lord's side without delay."
Dr. Birney's subject to-night is "The Tragedy of Neglect." Friday afternoon his subject is "The Lord's Prayer." Friday night is Young People's night. The subject is "In the Garden of God."
—Van Wert Daily Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, March 3, 1921, p. 2.
Methodist Meetings
Evangelist Changes Style in Handling of Sermon Subject — Splendid Attendance
Evangelist Birney has changed his style somewhat at the revival meetings at the First M. E. Church. Always earnest and persuasive, he has taken on new energy of expression and new earnestness of appeal as he approaches the end of his engagement here. Last night he based his sermon on several passages in the book of Revelation, which speak of the marks of the beast upon the hand and the forehead. It was an earnest appeal for an out and out immediate decision for Christ.
He said in part: "Those who received the mark of the beast in these highly figurative passages were marked for destruction. They bore the marks of hell upon their hand and upon their forehead. Those who did not bear the marks of the beast were those who had chosen Christ and would be saved in the day of wrath. They were all marked for salvation or for destruction — for heaven or hell. So it is to-night. There is no such thing as a third class. All are either marked with the mark of the beast or of the Lamb. There is no neutrality, no neutral class. There is no such thing as a fifty-fifty Christian. Just as there was no such thing as a fifty-fifty American during the war so there is no such thing as a fifty-fifty Christian as long as the war against sin is on. You are for Christ or the beast.
"You cannot sidestep and play fast and loose with the devil. You may say 'Good God, good devil,' but it deceives no one but yourself. 'Choose you this day whom you will serve,' — but don't imagine you can serve both God and the devil at the same time. Everyone in the congregation is either on the road to heaven or on the road to hell and it is up to you to decide which it will be. O, why do you take any chance, my brother? You may leave this building undecided and never have another chance to throw off the mark of the beast. Which side are you on? Whose mark is on you? God help every one here to choose heaven and to avoid hell. Why not decide now? Choose ye, choose ye. Don't try to be a fifty-fifty Christian, but come out on the Lord's side without delay."
Dr. Birney's subject to-night is "The Tragedy of Neglect." Friday afternoon his subject is "The Lord's Prayer." Friday night is Young People's night. The subject is "In the Garden of God."
—Van Wert Daily Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, March 3, 1921, p. 2.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Chicago Evangelist Assails Church Socials
1897
Causes a Commotion at Kewanee
Not for years have religious circles at Kewanee, Ill., been so agitated as they were the other day because of an address delivered in the M. E. church by Evangelist Lindfield, of Chicago.
Church socials and entertainments have been given by the religious organizations of the city, so many, in fact, that the evangelistic services held by Mr. Lindfield have not been well attended. In the pulpit he took clippings from the local newspapers giving the reports of such social's and read them aloud to the congregation, after which he made most scathing remarks about the Christianity which tolerated them. In the newspaper-reports there were the names of many prominent ladies of the various churches, and their sincerity was questioned by the speaker, with the result that the address has aroused much feeling and antagonism.
"When a real Christian wishes to give 25 cents to the cause of the Lord," said Mr. Lindfield, "he has no right to demand that an oyster supper be thrown in. The church social and kindred entertainments are only means of extorting money from unwilling people, and I put them in a class with the saloon and the gambling den. They are a form of robbery, and the church which accepts money from such sources is full of the works of the devil."
Especially bitter was the speaker against a Klondike social to be given the coming week at one of the large churches, and he openly ridiculed the promoters, who are among the most prominent people of the city.
—Dubuque Daily Herald, Dubuque, IA, Dec. 4, 1897, p. 3.
Causes a Commotion at Kewanee
Not for years have religious circles at Kewanee, Ill., been so agitated as they were the other day because of an address delivered in the M. E. church by Evangelist Lindfield, of Chicago.
Church socials and entertainments have been given by the religious organizations of the city, so many, in fact, that the evangelistic services held by Mr. Lindfield have not been well attended. In the pulpit he took clippings from the local newspapers giving the reports of such social's and read them aloud to the congregation, after which he made most scathing remarks about the Christianity which tolerated them. In the newspaper-reports there were the names of many prominent ladies of the various churches, and their sincerity was questioned by the speaker, with the result that the address has aroused much feeling and antagonism.
"When a real Christian wishes to give 25 cents to the cause of the Lord," said Mr. Lindfield, "he has no right to demand that an oyster supper be thrown in. The church social and kindred entertainments are only means of extorting money from unwilling people, and I put them in a class with the saloon and the gambling den. They are a form of robbery, and the church which accepts money from such sources is full of the works of the devil."
Especially bitter was the speaker against a Klondike social to be given the coming week at one of the large churches, and he openly ridiculed the promoters, who are among the most prominent people of the city.
—Dubuque Daily Herald, Dubuque, IA, Dec. 4, 1897, p. 3.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Leader of "Holy Jumpers" Tells Experiences in Religious Life
1909
CONFESSIONS OF MRS. HARVEY
Leader of "Holy Jumpers" Gives Interesting Experiences in Religious Life
Mrs. E. L. Harvey, wife of the secretary of the Metropolitan Church association, otherwise known as the Holy Jumpers, a woman of much force of character and ability and one of the leading spirits of the sect, has an interesting article entitled "A Page of My Experience" in the current number of The Burning Bush. From this article we make the following selections:
From childhood I was brought up in the Methodist church and Sunday school and later in the missionary societies and Epworth league. I saw around me a company of young people who professed to love the Lord, who were members of the church but the great object with all of us was to make our class or our society a success.
Only for the week of prayer in the winter time was a special effort made to get souls saved and in that only a very few took part in assisting the minister or evangelist. Again, in the summer time the camp meeting would meet and for ten days the people were stirred up to think about getting someone saved.
Whenever I would hear a sermon preached which told of a life higher than that which I experienced, I was at the altar to seek holiness, but, immediately, on the return from camp meeting, came the usual round of strawberry suppers and ice cream sociables in the name of religion, and these sapped away the piety of each individual.
Trying to Outdo.
As a matter of course in all of these social affairs there entered much rivalry and jealousy, each one trying to outdo the other and secure the approbation of her fellow-workers — then came the vieing with each other in the matter of dress. Of course these things were supposed to be hidden, and yet in each heart was the desire to appear as well as her neighbor.
I had been married and we were engaged in mission work, but, we still attended the old church; but the fact that we were laboring in mission work caused me to trim down somewhat and helped me to get a different view of matters, and I began to see more clearly that real work for God did not consist in giving sociables and parties.
Realizing a Need.
A holiness evangelist was called to the Methodist church where we held our membership, and I eagerly listened to the red-hot truths and went to the altar to be sanctified as I thought that that was what I needed. The preacher told me if anyone in the church was sanctified, I was and that I should not be at the altar. However, I knew the stirrings of my own heart and knew that I needed the abiding presence of Christ.
God certainly changed my heart at that time and all desire for the social doings was taken from me and God helped me to take a decided stand against them and to refuse to lend any assistance to those who carried them on.
God's Voice Was Heeded.
My husband's business was prospering and I had an easy, care-free life and could have whatever I desired. God led me to spend much time each day in prayer and in reading His Word and holiness literature and I well remember how He talked to me about the manner in which I wore my hair, and very gladly I made it plain to please Him. The Lord also had talked to me about singing worldly songs and these too were laid aside. Then came up the question of fancy hats and, as though it were yesterday, I remember the first one I tore to pieces, taking off the drooping feathers and the flowers. The devil said that I could never stand it; but I believed God, and ten years have flown by since that time and I have never wanted any such things.
Silk dresses came in for condemnation by the Lord and these too were given up. Then came the wearing of gold. I had often been ashamed in our mission work on seeing my diamond engagement ring flash and would turn it under my hand, but when God talked to me about this and also all other gold — rings, pins, chains, watch, etc. — I became so heartsick and disgusted with gold that I could scarcely bear the sight of brass buttons and it was no trial to lay it off, and later I was delighted to see the gold and diamond "treasures" traded off to help pay for a bus to carry students to a noon meeting held years ago in Chicago.
Thus it was with other matters of clothing — the tailor-made suits became a thing of the past, as well as the sealskin coat which went to help pay expenses of the Bible school. These things all belong to the long-ago — the time which we would not recall for all there is in this world.
The Light Was Dim.
We heard no preaching upon these things — the light was dim. Once in a while some old saint would say a word but the holiness evangelists enjoyed coming to our home and we enjoyed entertaining them, but they did not speak out against anything they saw.
Dr. Carradine's Opinions.
It was in Dr. Carradine's meetings that God sanctified my soul; but Dr. Carradine told me that the Lord would never ask me to take off my wedding ring as it was the bond of matrimony —but, nevertheless, it went for I knew that gold was gold and God said through His apostle that it was not to be worn by the saints. Although Dr. Carradine in his public preaching ridiculed "rooster tail feathers" and plumes, yet he told me the feathers in a certain hat of mine were all right, and told me he believed the prettiest trimming for a lady's hat was ostrich feathers, and showed me the pictures of his wife and one or two of his daughters with hats heavy with plumes, which of course must have been bought with money which he received from holiness preaching.
God had told me I must not sing worldly songs, but Dr. Carradine, while at our home, brought in two copies of a song, "Her Mem'ry Brings Me No Regret," giving me one which he asked me to sing and sending one to his daughter in St. Louis.
The Home in Question.
The Lord began to talk to my husband and me about our home with its hardwood floors, oriental rugs and furnishings. I asked Dr. Carradine what he thought about that. He told me to never give it up, that it was none too good and that if we would give it up and live in a tent with a rug in it, someone would come along and say we ought not to have the rug. But still the voice of God kept talking and reminding us that there were thousands of dollars tied up in a home for us, which could be used to put missionaries into the field and win souls. The decision was made; the devil stood by, telling me I could never stand it as I had always loved my home. He said we were deteriorating and we were degenerating and would soon have nothing.
I told the Lord if I had to dress in calico and live in a tent the rest of my life I was going to be His child and do His bidding. It was sweet to do His will. The day came when we were to pack up and move out and to the glory of God I can say that there was not a sigh nor a tear but a constant song. A friend afterward remarked that as she saw the packing going on, she did not see how I could sing.
The Distribution.
When the different articles of furniture were distributed, some to the Children's Home, some to the Missionary Home, some to the Bible school it was a delight to see them used, not for self, but for the glory of God. Some pieces were sold and the money put directly into the work of the Lord. Then came the selling of the home — the title passed into the new owner's hands; the money went into the Lord's work; the bridges were burned, and, praise God, to this present day through the years that have passed since then we have never had one desire to have the home back again, but have thoroughly enjoyed the life into which the Lord has led us.
God Almighty Speaks Again.
When our home was sold we had no thought of living in the Bible school, but there the Lord plainly led us. Then the Lord called for my husband's business. It was prospering and growing; the proceeds had long been used for the Lord, but now He said, "Strip for the race and lay aside these burdens and let others assume these responsibilities."
So the business was sold, passing into other hands who bought it — name and all. This money also was put into the Lord's work, and there was no temptation to touch any of it to get clothing or anything for ourselves. Thank God, our Christ was welcomed to it all. He has cared for us during the years since that time, has clothed and fed us and we fear not the future, but trust God always.
—The Waukesha Freeman, Waukesha, WI, July 1, 1909, p. 2.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
1930 Revival Draws Large Crowds
Danville, Virginia, 1930
Rev. Roy T. Jarrett, of the Trinity M. E. church, Lynchburg, continued his revival services when he delivered a powerful message to a large congregation last night at the Third Avenue Christian church. Rev. Jarrett took as his subject "Witnessing for Christ," his text being from John 1:41-42: "He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, and he brought him to Jesus."
Mr. Jarrett pictured vividly the characteristics of Andrew, brother of Simon Peter as a witness and soul winner for his Lord, and showed plainly the necessary qualifications for witnesses and soul winners.
The subject for tonight will be "The personality of the Devil," and on Thursday night "Hell."
The song service rendered each evening is proving very popular and are under the direction of J. W. Dixon, choir leader of the church. These services will continue through Sunday, May 18.
—The Bee, Danville, Virginia, May 7, 1930, page 10.
Rev. Roy T. Jarrett, of the Trinity M. E. church, Lynchburg, continued his revival services when he delivered a powerful message to a large congregation last night at the Third Avenue Christian church. Rev. Jarrett took as his subject "Witnessing for Christ," his text being from John 1:41-42: "He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, and he brought him to Jesus."
Mr. Jarrett pictured vividly the characteristics of Andrew, brother of Simon Peter as a witness and soul winner for his Lord, and showed plainly the necessary qualifications for witnesses and soul winners.
The subject for tonight will be "The personality of the Devil," and on Thursday night "Hell."
The song service rendered each evening is proving very popular and are under the direction of J. W. Dixon, choir leader of the church. These services will continue through Sunday, May 18.
—The Bee, Danville, Virginia, May 7, 1930, page 10.
Evangelist Nipper Uses Devil's Words Against Him
Fort Wayne, Indiana, 1916
ASKS MEN'S LEAGUE TO SHOW ITS COLORS
Evangelist Nipper Urges United Support of Tent Revival.
Revival meetings in progress at the corner of Ewing and Main streets, conducted by the Jones-Nipper evangelistic party, continue of a spiritual nature and last night a large audience heard Rev. Nipper deliver a forceful sermon. The musical program was featured by a duet by Loren Jones, of the Nipper-Jones party, and Guy R. Sutton, well known member of the Lyon evangelistic party, which conducted services in Fort Wayne last year. Mr. Sutton is a visitor in the city. His singing was a feature of revival services during the Lyon campaign.
The meeting on Friday night will be attended by members of the Men's Christian league of the city, who will assemble at the First Baptist church at 7:15 o'clock and march to Calhoun street, to Main street and west to the tent meeting. "The members of the Men's league have a chance to show their colors and to do something in a constructive way," declared Rev. Nipper in his announcement. "We must do something besides drive out the saloons; we must have an even broader vision.
"It takes money to run this campaign and we would like to have the necessary funds to defray all expenses contributed by next Sunday night," continued the pastor. "We now have something over $200 given, but more money is needed." Rev. Nipper announced a donation of $100 by a Fort Wayne resident, whose interest in the revival did not wane despite the fact that he will be out of the city a greater part of the time it is in progress.
Visiting clergymen were given seats on the stage and among those present last night was Rev. T. M. Guild, of Huntington, brother of Rev. D. H. Guild, pastor of the First M. E. church of Fort Wayne.
Rev. C. E. Boyer, pastor of the Crescent avenue Evangelical church, gave the opening prayer. Rev. J. B. Blair gave the offertory prayer. Rev. Nipper made announcements in the absence of Rev. O. E. Tomes, pastor of the West Jefferson street Church of Christ, who was out of the city. Rev. Tomes is chairman of the executive committee of the evangelistic campaign.
The choral work, under direction of Mr. and Mrs. Loren Jones, is still an inspiring spring feature of the revival. Mr. Jones directed the large chorus last night in several selections, which brought out some of the best singing of the protracted meetings.
Rev. Nipper's Sermon.
"Let Us Alone," taken from Mark 1:24, was the subject of Rev. Nipper's sermon, which was in part as follows:
We sometimes take a text of scripture and tell who the author is. You will readily see that these are not the words of Peter, James or John, but that they are the words of Satan. They were spoken when Jesus approached a man who was possessed with the devil.
This cry has rung down through all the ages. It was the cry of Israel, even when they had been delivered from bondage and while in the wilderness. They cried, let us alone and let us go back and serve old Pharaoh. It was the cry of the south when the north took arms and went down there to free the colored people. They cried, let us alone. It is the cry of the liquor traffic when there is a protest against them for unlawful acts. If I had my way I'd have every drop of booze in hell before tomorrow morning. Say, if the average saloonkeeper didn't display any more enthusiasm than the average churchman he'd close up and you could call this a dry town. It is also the cry of the individual. I always feel sorry for the man who is always saying let me alone in my sin. I haven't any patience with the man or woman who will fly up and get sore when you ask him or her to accept the best thing on earth.
Show me a man that is swamped by sin and I'll show you a man that is saying "Let me alone." Show me a city that is wide open and when a law is passed to close it up I will show you a city that is crying, "Let us alone." But here is coming a time when there will be a lot of people left alone, and then half will wish they had a little company of Christian people. Listen when Jesus comes, and his bride is caught up with him, and all the Christian people are caught up with him and nothing left on earth but people that have refused to accept Christ. I say to you I don't want to have any part in that, for it is then that those who have been crying "Let us alone" will be left alone in their sin and can have the time of their lives in it.
Not Found in a Saloon.
I want you to notice that this man was not found in a saloon; he was not found indulging in any game of vice; he was not criticizing the Bible, but he was in the synagogue or in the church. If the devil could be cast out of a lot of people that fill the church pews, it would not take long to close up this dispensation. But someone says, "I don't believe in the devil." Then I wonder who this voice was referring to when it said "us." I am sure that "us" doesn't mean me, and I am sure that it does not mean one person, and if it means two persons, then there must have been someone else there except this man. I am sure the devil was the spokesman for this man and every other man. I tell you when a man gets to the place where he will speak for himself he will always decide for Christ, but as long as he lets the devil decide for him he will never be a Christian, because the devil doesn't want anybody to be a Christian. The devil has given a testimony for Christ. He said: "I know thee who thou art; thou art Jesus, the Son of God." If you are serving the devil you should believe him and if you will believe the devil's testimony you will go out of this place a saved person tonight.
Revival for Parents Needed.
I honor the father and mother who are living their lives before their children, and let me say right here that what we need in Fort Wayne is a revival among the parents of children. Listen to me just a minute. Are you a father of a boy? If so, what kind of a man will he be if he follows in your footsteps? Are you a mother of a girl? If so, what kind of a young lady will she be if she follows in your footsteps? Oh you say, he's a great big-hearted fellow. Well, that may be, but he may be black-hearted as well; it may be a big heart, but not a true heart. Remember, fathers and mothers are going to have to give an account to God for the way they bring up their children. If you are here tonight away from God don't go away from this place saying "Let me alone," but come right now and settle this matter and go away with peace of mind.
SOME NIPPERISMS IN TABLOID FORM.
If the average saloonkeeper didn't display any more enthusiasm to get business than the average layman does to get members, he'd have to close and you could call this a dry town.
I haven't any patience with the person who flies up and gets mad when you offer him the best thing on earth.
A lot of people think just because they don't believe a thing it isn't true.
A lot of folks want to just take a few things out of the Bible and throw the rest away.
Some people have the Bible in their home for a bluff.
If you will believe the devil's testimony you will go out from this place a saved man.
The person who is saying no to the invitation to accept Christ is letting the devil make the decision for him.
—The Fort Wayne Sentinel, Fort Wayne, Indiana, June 21, 1916, page 4.
Note: Nipper's name, or at least initials, was Rev. J. A. Nipper. The meetings took place in a tent that was pitched for the purpose. The meetings were given under the auspices of the Men's Christian league, the Fort Wayne Ministerial association and the Associated Christian Workers.
ASKS MEN'S LEAGUE TO SHOW ITS COLORS
Evangelist Nipper Urges United Support of Tent Revival.
Revival meetings in progress at the corner of Ewing and Main streets, conducted by the Jones-Nipper evangelistic party, continue of a spiritual nature and last night a large audience heard Rev. Nipper deliver a forceful sermon. The musical program was featured by a duet by Loren Jones, of the Nipper-Jones party, and Guy R. Sutton, well known member of the Lyon evangelistic party, which conducted services in Fort Wayne last year. Mr. Sutton is a visitor in the city. His singing was a feature of revival services during the Lyon campaign.
The meeting on Friday night will be attended by members of the Men's Christian league of the city, who will assemble at the First Baptist church at 7:15 o'clock and march to Calhoun street, to Main street and west to the tent meeting. "The members of the Men's league have a chance to show their colors and to do something in a constructive way," declared Rev. Nipper in his announcement. "We must do something besides drive out the saloons; we must have an even broader vision.
"It takes money to run this campaign and we would like to have the necessary funds to defray all expenses contributed by next Sunday night," continued the pastor. "We now have something over $200 given, but more money is needed." Rev. Nipper announced a donation of $100 by a Fort Wayne resident, whose interest in the revival did not wane despite the fact that he will be out of the city a greater part of the time it is in progress.
Visiting clergymen were given seats on the stage and among those present last night was Rev. T. M. Guild, of Huntington, brother of Rev. D. H. Guild, pastor of the First M. E. church of Fort Wayne.
Rev. C. E. Boyer, pastor of the Crescent avenue Evangelical church, gave the opening prayer. Rev. J. B. Blair gave the offertory prayer. Rev. Nipper made announcements in the absence of Rev. O. E. Tomes, pastor of the West Jefferson street Church of Christ, who was out of the city. Rev. Tomes is chairman of the executive committee of the evangelistic campaign.
The choral work, under direction of Mr. and Mrs. Loren Jones, is still an inspiring spring feature of the revival. Mr. Jones directed the large chorus last night in several selections, which brought out some of the best singing of the protracted meetings.
Rev. Nipper's Sermon.
"Let Us Alone," taken from Mark 1:24, was the subject of Rev. Nipper's sermon, which was in part as follows:
We sometimes take a text of scripture and tell who the author is. You will readily see that these are not the words of Peter, James or John, but that they are the words of Satan. They were spoken when Jesus approached a man who was possessed with the devil.
This cry has rung down through all the ages. It was the cry of Israel, even when they had been delivered from bondage and while in the wilderness. They cried, let us alone and let us go back and serve old Pharaoh. It was the cry of the south when the north took arms and went down there to free the colored people. They cried, let us alone. It is the cry of the liquor traffic when there is a protest against them for unlawful acts. If I had my way I'd have every drop of booze in hell before tomorrow morning. Say, if the average saloonkeeper didn't display any more enthusiasm than the average churchman he'd close up and you could call this a dry town. It is also the cry of the individual. I always feel sorry for the man who is always saying let me alone in my sin. I haven't any patience with the man or woman who will fly up and get sore when you ask him or her to accept the best thing on earth.
Show me a man that is swamped by sin and I'll show you a man that is saying "Let me alone." Show me a city that is wide open and when a law is passed to close it up I will show you a city that is crying, "Let us alone." But here is coming a time when there will be a lot of people left alone, and then half will wish they had a little company of Christian people. Listen when Jesus comes, and his bride is caught up with him, and all the Christian people are caught up with him and nothing left on earth but people that have refused to accept Christ. I say to you I don't want to have any part in that, for it is then that those who have been crying "Let us alone" will be left alone in their sin and can have the time of their lives in it.
Not Found in a Saloon.
I want you to notice that this man was not found in a saloon; he was not found indulging in any game of vice; he was not criticizing the Bible, but he was in the synagogue or in the church. If the devil could be cast out of a lot of people that fill the church pews, it would not take long to close up this dispensation. But someone says, "I don't believe in the devil." Then I wonder who this voice was referring to when it said "us." I am sure that "us" doesn't mean me, and I am sure that it does not mean one person, and if it means two persons, then there must have been someone else there except this man. I am sure the devil was the spokesman for this man and every other man. I tell you when a man gets to the place where he will speak for himself he will always decide for Christ, but as long as he lets the devil decide for him he will never be a Christian, because the devil doesn't want anybody to be a Christian. The devil has given a testimony for Christ. He said: "I know thee who thou art; thou art Jesus, the Son of God." If you are serving the devil you should believe him and if you will believe the devil's testimony you will go out of this place a saved person tonight.
Revival for Parents Needed.
I honor the father and mother who are living their lives before their children, and let me say right here that what we need in Fort Wayne is a revival among the parents of children. Listen to me just a minute. Are you a father of a boy? If so, what kind of a man will he be if he follows in your footsteps? Are you a mother of a girl? If so, what kind of a young lady will she be if she follows in your footsteps? Oh you say, he's a great big-hearted fellow. Well, that may be, but he may be black-hearted as well; it may be a big heart, but not a true heart. Remember, fathers and mothers are going to have to give an account to God for the way they bring up their children. If you are here tonight away from God don't go away from this place saying "Let me alone," but come right now and settle this matter and go away with peace of mind.
SOME NIPPERISMS IN TABLOID FORM.
If the average saloonkeeper didn't display any more enthusiasm to get business than the average layman does to get members, he'd have to close and you could call this a dry town.
I haven't any patience with the person who flies up and gets mad when you offer him the best thing on earth.
A lot of people think just because they don't believe a thing it isn't true.
A lot of folks want to just take a few things out of the Bible and throw the rest away.
Some people have the Bible in their home for a bluff.
If you will believe the devil's testimony you will go out from this place a saved man.
The person who is saying no to the invitation to accept Christ is letting the devil make the decision for him.
—The Fort Wayne Sentinel, Fort Wayne, Indiana, June 21, 1916, page 4.
Note: Nipper's name, or at least initials, was Rev. J. A. Nipper. The meetings took place in a tent that was pitched for the purpose. The meetings were given under the auspices of the Men's Christian league, the Fort Wayne Ministerial association and the Associated Christian Workers.
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