Labors in New Hampshire
65
A sister of one of these men requested a private interview with
me. She had much to say concerning entire consecration to God, and
endeavored to draw out my views in regard to this subject. While
talking, she held my hand in hers, and with the other softly stroked my
hair. I prayed that angels of God might protect me from the unholy
influences which this attractive young woman was seeking to exercise
over me with her fair speeches and gentle caresses. She had much
to say in regard to the spiritual attainments and great faith of her
brother. Her mind seemed to be very much occupied with him and his
experience. I felt that I must be guarded in what I said, and was glad
when the interview was ended.
These persons who made such lofty professions, were deceiving
the unwary. They had much to say about charity covering a multitude
of sins. I could not agree with their views and feelings, and felt that
they were wielding a terrible power for evil, and was glad to get away
from their presence.
As soon as the views of these people were crossed, they manifested
a stubborn, self-righteous spirit that rejected all instruction. Though
professing great humility, they were boastful in their sophistry of
sanctification, and resisted all appeals to reason. We felt that all our
efforts to convince them of their error were useless, as they took the
position that they were not learners, but teachers.
Meeting at Brother Collier’s
In the afternoon we went to the house of Brother Collier, where
we proposed to hold a meeting that evening. We asked Brother Collier
some questions regarding these men, but he gave us no information.
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“If the Lord sent you here,” he said, “you will ascertain what spirit
governs them, and will solve the mystery for us.”
Both of these men attended the meeting at Brother Collier’s. While
I was earnestly praying for light and the presence of God, they began
to groan and to cry “Amen!” apparently throwing their sympathy with
my prayer. But my heart was immediately oppressed with a great
weight. The words died upon my lips, and darkness overshadowed the
whole meeting.