Importance of the Sabbath
While some have been urging their man-made tests upon the peo-
ple, the claims of the fourth commandment have been held very lightly.
We knew that the blessing of God could not rest upon this church until
there was a reformation upon this important point. Those who stand in
responsible positions should be careful that their words and example
are such as will lead the people to correct views and practices. They
should be sure that in no way they belittle the requirements of God.
Because the fourth commandment is so widely disregarded, we should
be the more earnest and decided in seeking to honor this precept of
God’s holy law. The third angel’s message is that which we are to
present to the world. Here God has a test for us, and if we come up to
the standard, we shall be a peculiar people. Whoever obeys the fourth
commandment will find that a separating line is drawn between him
and the world. The Sabbath is a test, not a human requirement, but
God’s test. It is that which will distinguish between those who serve
God and those who serve him not; and upon this point will come the
last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error.
Among our people generally in these kingdoms, the Sabbath has
not stood in the exalted position where God has placed it. The world
is the instrument that sifts the church, and tests the genuineness of
its members. The world holds out inducements, that, when accepted,
place the believer where his life is not in harmony with his profession.
Some of our brethren engaged in business have not kept the Sabbath
according to the commandment. Some have been in partnership with
unbelievers, and the influence of these Sabbath-breaking associates has
had its effect upon them. Some have been so blinded that they could
not discern the danger in such connections, but it is only the greater
because unperceived. While one partner is professedly observing
the Sabbath, the other, with the laborers employed, is carrying on
the business of the firm. The Sabbath-keeper, though not outwardly
engaged in labor, cannot keep his thoughts from business matters.
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