Chapter 39—The Cause in Iowa
I have been shown that the cause in Iowa is in a deplorable con-
dition. Young men have been connected with the different branches
of the work who have not been in a condition spiritually to benefit
the people. Quite a number of inexperienced and inefficient men have
been laboring in the cause who need a great work done for them.
College Students
The influence of Brother B has not been altogether what it should
be. While at the college in Battle Creek he was in many respects an
exemplary young man; but he, with other young gentlemen and ladies,
in a secretive manner, made an excursion to-----. This was not noble,
frank, and just. They all knew that it was a breach of the rules, but
they ventured in the path of transgression. These young men, by this
act and their attitude since in relation to their wrong course, have cast
reflections upon the college that are most unjust.
When the brethren in Iowa accepted the labors of Brother B under
these circumstances, they did wrong. If they pursue a similar course
in other cases, they will greatly displease God. The fact that he had
been a young man of excellent deportment gave him greater influence
over others, and his example in standing in defiance of the rules and
authority which sustain and control the school influenced others to do
as he had done. Laws and regulations will be of no force in conducting
the school if such things are sanctioned by our brethren at large. A
demoralizing influence is easily introduced into a school. Many will
readily partake of the spirit of rebellion and defiance unless prompt
and vigilant efforts are continually put forth to maintain the standard
of the school by strict rules regulating the conduct of the students.
The labors of Brother B will not be acceptable to God until he
shall fully see and acknowledge his wrong in violating the rules of the
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college and shall endeavor to counteract the influence he has exerted to
injure its reputation. Many more students would have come from Iowa
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