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Counsels for the Church
Indulgence of the baser passions will lead very many to shut their
eyes to the light, for they fear that they will see sins which they are
unwilling to forsake. All may see if they will. If they choose darkness
rather than light, their criminality will be none the less
Death before dishonor or the transgression of God’s law should be
the motto of every Christian. As a people professing to be reformers,
treasuring the most solemn, purifying truths of God’s word, we must
elevate the standard far higher than it is at the present time. Sin
and sinners in the church must be promptly dealt with, that others
may not be contaminated. Truth and purity require that we make
more thorough work to cleanse the camp from Achans. Let those in
responsible positions not suffer sin in a brother. Show him that he
must either put away his sins or be separated from the church
The youth may have principles so firm that the most powerful
temptations of Satan will not draw them away from their allegiance.
Samuel was a child surrounded by the most corrupting influences. He
saw and heard things that grieved his soul. The sons of Eli, who min-
istered in holy office, were controlled by Satan. These men polluted
the whole atmosphere which surrounded them. Men and women were
daily fascinated with sin and wrong, yet Samuel walked untainted.
His robes of character were spotless. He did not fellowship, or have
the least delight in, the sins which filled all Israel with fearful reports.
Samuel loved God; he kept his soul in such close connection with
heaven that an angel was sent to talk with him in reference to the sins
of Eli’s sons, which were corrupting Israel
The Result of Moral Pollution
Some who make a high profession do not understand the sin of
self-abuse and its sure results. Long-established habit has blinded
their understanding. They do not realize the exceeding sinfulness
of this degrading sin, which is enervating the system and destroying
their brain nerve power. Moral principle is exceedingly weak when it
conflicts with established habit. Solemn messages from heaven cannot
forcibly impress the heart that is not fortified against the indulgence of
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Testimonies for the Church 2:352
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Testimonies for the Church 5:147
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Testimonies for the Church 3:472-474