Basic HTML Version
Literary Societies
It is often asked, Are literary societies a benefit to our youth?
To answer this question properly, we should consider not only the
avowed purpose of such societies, but the influence which they have
actually exerted, as proved by experience. The improvement of the
mind is a duty which we owe to ourselves, to society, and to God.
But we should never devise means for the cultivation of the intellect
at the expense of the moral and the spiritual. And it is only by the
harmonious development of both the mental and the moral faculties
that the highest perfection of either can be attained. Are these results
secured by literary societies as they are generally conducted?
Literary societies are almost universally exerting an influence
contrary to that which the name indicates. As generally conducted
they are an injury to the youth, for Satan comes in to put his stamp
upon the exercises. All that makes men manly or women womanly is
reflected from the character of Christ. The less we have of Christ in
such societies, the less we have of the elevating, refining, ennobling
element which should prevail. When worldlings conduct these meet-
ings to meet their wishes, the spirit of Christ is excluded. The mind
is drawn away from serious reflection, away from God, away from
the real and substantial, to the imaginary and the superficial. Literary
societies—would that the name expressed their true character! What
is the chaff to the wheat?
The purposes and objects which lead to the formation of literary
societies may be good; but unless wisdom from God shall control
[542]
these organizations, they will become a positive evil. The irreligious
and unconsecrated in heart and life are usually admitted and are often
placed in the most responsible positions. Rules and regulations may
be adopted that are thought to be sufficient to hold in check every
deleterious influence; but Satan, a shrewd general, is at work to mold
the society to suit his plans, and in time he too often succeeds. The
great adversary finds ready access to those whom he has controlled
in the past, and through them he accomplishes his purpose. Various
435