Sympathy for the Erring
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The word of God abounds in general principles for the formation
of correct habits of living, and the testimonies, general and personal,
have been calculated to call their attention more especially to these
principles; but all these have not made a sufficient impression upon
their hearts and minds to cause them to realize the necessity of decided
reform. If they had correct views of themselves in contrast with the
perfect Pattern, they would cherish that faith that works by love and
purifies the soul. These brothers, A B excepted, are naturally arbitrary,
dictatorial, and self-sufficient. They do not consider others better than
themselves. They are envious and jealous of any member of the church
who, they think, will be esteemed more highly than themselves. They
profess conscientiousness; but they strain at a gnat and swallow a
camel in their dealings with their brethren, who, they fear, will be
considered superior to themselves. They seize upon little things, and
talk over particulars, putting their own construction upon words and
acts. This is particularly true of two of these brothers.
These men, especially A B, are free, easy speakers. Their smooth
manner of relating things has such an appearance of honesty and
genuine interest for the cause of God that it has a tendency to deceive
and becloud the minds of those who hear them. My heart aches with
sadness as I write, because I know the influence of this family wherever
it is felt. I did not design to speak in regard to these persons again, but
the solemn opening of these matters before me compels me to write
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once more. If the ministers of the word, who profess to be connected
with God, cannot discern the influence of such men, they are unfit to
stand as teachers of the truth of God. If these persons would only keep
their proper position and never attempt to teach or to lead, I would be
silent; but when I see that the cause of God is in danger of suffering I
can hold my peace no longer.
These brothers should not be allowed to all locate in one place
and compose the leading element in the church. They are wanting in
natural affection. They do not manifest sympathy, love, and refined
feeling toward one another, but indulge in envy, jealousy, bickerings,
and strife among themselves. Their consciences are not tender. The
love, gentleness, and meekness of Christ does not help to compose
their experience. God forbid that such an element should exist in
the church. Unless these persons are converted, they cannot see the
kingdom of heaven. It is much more congenial to their feelings to be