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126
Early Writings
Jesus set us the example, and told us to do as He had done. I saw that
His example should be as exactly followed as possible; yet brethren
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and sisters have not always moved as judiciously as they should in
washing feet, and confusion has been caused. It should be introduced
into new places with carefulness and wisdom, especially where the
people are not informed relative to the example and teachings of our
Lord on this point, and where they have prejudice against it. Many
honest souls, through the influence of former teachers in whom they
had confidence, are much prejudiced against this plain duty, and the
subject should be introduced to them in a proper time and manner.
There is no example given in the Word for brethren to wash
sisters’ feet; [
see appendix.
] but there is an example for sisters to
wash the feet of brethren. Mary washed the feet of Jesus with her
tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head. (See also
1 Timothy
5:10
.) I saw that the Lord had moved upon sisters to wash the feet
of brethren and that it was according to gospel order. All should
move understandingly and not make the washing of feet a tedious
ceremony.
The holy salutation mentioned in the gospel of Jesus Christ by
the apostle Paul should ever be considered in its true character.
It
is a holy kiss
. [
see appendix.
] It should be regarded as a sign of
fellowship to Christian friends when parting, and when meeting
again after a separation of weeks or months. In
1 Thessalonians 5:26
Paul says: “Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.” In the same
chapter he says: “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” There can be
no appearance of evil when the holy kiss is given at a proper time
and place.
I saw that the strong hand of the enemy is set against the work
of God, and the help and strength of everyone who loves the cause
of truth should be enlisted; great interest should be manifested by
them to uphold the hands of those who advocate the truth, that by
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steady watchcare they may shut out the enemy. All should stand as
one, united in the work. Every energy of the soul should be awake,
for what is done must be done quickly.
I then saw the third angel. Said my accompanying angel, “Fearful
is his work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel that is to select the
wheat from the tares, and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heavenly