VOLUME 44

WARBURTON, MONDAY, NOVEMBER n, 1940

NUMBER 46

early morning's pastel sky Is like anemone, Above the deep, dark vale nearby, Where blooms Gethsemane. And, touched by tender light, I see As in those days of yore The little town of Bethany; Mary and Martha's door. Far eastward, where dull brown hills rise 'Neath Moab's purple rim, The Dead Sea, like a turquoise, lies, Remotely blue and dim. The Jordan's green-fringed crystals gleamBorn of Mount Hermon's snow That sacred, loved, baptismal stream, By ancient Jericho. I gaze across the wide ravine, Where, high on yon bold hill, White-domed Jerusalem is seen Her great wall round her still, As in those ages long gone by, When Jesus walked with men. I turn from this sad spot, and sigh: "Oh, that He'd come again!"

ELSIE LINCOLN BENEDICT

[Registered at the G.P.O., Melbourne, for transmission by post as a newspaper.]

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The little Bay Islands, off Honduras, first lighted our way into the Spanish Main. All these were providential bases in our early mission advance to the greater Catholic regions, where now abundant fruitage is gladdening our hearts. On a lesser scale in other parts of the earth the moving to and fro of colonists seeking new homes had made ways for this message to reach in among peoples and tongues where we could hardly have made direct approach in the early days of our mission advance. There has been a continuous and almost visible working of Divine Providence all along the way. The angels of Revelation 14 have been flying on before. And in the moving to and fro and commingling of peoples of different nations, our workers have all along thanked God for the fulfilment of the promise and prophecy of this time of the end, when many were to "run to and fro," and knowledge was to be increased. "Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the loving-kindness of the Lord.'' Ps. 107: 43.

Providences in the Migrations and the Mingling of Peoples Over the Earth
W. A. SPICER

The Apostle Paul recognized an overruling providence in the immigrations of peoples and the settlement of national boundaries in ancient times. In it all the hand of mercy was seen shaping events for the furtherance of the gospel and the salvation of men. The apostle said at Athens: "God . . . hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him." Acts 17: 26, 27. We can read the lesson in the Bible story of the rise and fall of ancient kingdoms. We recognize it less clearly in later secular history. God's providence overruled wars and conquests. The spread of Alexander's Macedonian empire, from west to east, for instance, made Greek a more or less international language. And the translation of the Old Testament into Greek, by order of a heathen king in the third century before Christ, was a wonderful providence in the preparation of men's minds for the first advent of the Saviour. The philosopher Seneca (brother of the Gallio of Acts 18: 12-17) wrote: "What mean Greek cities in the midst of barbarian countries? What means the language of Macedonians among Indians ,and Persians?" The apostles could tell him. It meant the provision of a language medium for reaching men with the gospel. When, centuries later, the tribes of the north were sweeping into the Roman Empire, Orosius, of Spain, told the complaining Romans that it was perhaps a providence by which many of the invaders were to hear of the gospel. He wrote (about A.D. 418) : "Yet if the barbarians had been let loose upon the Roman lands simply because the churches of Christ throughout the east and west were filled with Huns, Suevi, Vandals, and Burgundians, and with believers belonging to various and innumerable races, it would seem that the mercy of God ought to be praised and glorified, in that so many nations would be receiving, even at the cost of our own weakening, a knowledge of the truth which they could never have had but for this opportunity.""Against the Pagans," book 7, chapter 41. We recognize this same providential preparation for spreading this advent message todaya mingling of peoples arid an overruling in the groupings of nations and in schemes of colonization, that have helped on the work of bringing the light of salvation to men in our times. For instance, as I sailed recently down the Pacific, along the fringe of the great island areas to the westward, I said to myself, Look at those lands of Australia and New Zealand, planted on the edge of the vast island world of the South Pacific, and settled generally by a Protestant people who stood for the open Bible and the free institutions that have always gone with the open Book. Australasia has been to this advent movement the providen-

tially prepared base for sending the light into some of the most needy and most difficult of mission fields. One historian Rusden, in his twovolume "History of Australia"pauses in his work to note the providential ordering in the settlement of both North America and this continent of the south. He says: "The student of history will cast a thought upon the mysterious slumber which reigned over so vast and neglected a portion of the globe, while small but luxuriant spots were keenly contended for by the Europeans, who were debarred from making in such incongenial climes their permanent homes. "The pope and the emperor allotted and claimed continents by what they called divine right; while silently but openly, under their eyes, the race for whom Divine Providence had reserved the mastery (the subduing of the wilderness), was pitching its humble tents in the New World of America. Again in the south the same drama has been enacted. ... To the descendants of the seafaring Northmen has fallen a continent, poor when found, but capable of making rich; holding out no luxuries for barter, but having a soil and a climate which invite the re-enactment in Australia of the marvel in America, where the colony already outnumbers the parent state."Volume I, page 3. All this was after the coming of the Reformation era. Of the significance of this fact, in the case of North America, the late Professor Eliot, of Harvard, remarked in "American Contribution to Civilization," page 118: "How fortunate it was that the colonizing of North America by Europe was deferred until after the period of the Reformation!" We know well what the Australian and New Zealand home base has meant in our work. What could we have done in those unnumbered isles of the Pacific without such provision? And, again, in our work for the tribes of the vast South African interior, where our African mission work began, the providential ordering provided the great commonwealth of South Africa peopled by Dutch and Englishto be an administration base, close at hand, and a source of supply for workers and means. Our mission story has made it clear that the first approach of this advent movement to the Catholic states and peoples of South America came about through Swiss and German colonistsof Protestant faithwho had migrated to the great southern continent. So, too, our entry into the old-time Russian field was over the pathway made by the Mennonite and other German colonists who were invited in from the plains of eastern Prussia. These people had suffered in Prussia for their conscientious convictions. They went into Russia under the promise of "religious liberty for ever." Then a czar arose who interpreted "for ever" to mean "a hundred years." But these colonists were the first in Russia to find the advent message, and the light spread from them into all parts. It was a blessed providence. It contributed much to the progress of our work among the French and Spanish Catholic islands of the West Indies, and the Spanish countries on the central and northern South American coasts adjoining, that we were first able to build up churches and training bases in the Protestant English-speaking islands along the Caribbean Sea and the mainland coasts.

Seed Bears Fruit- -Ajtt r Many Days

A. R. OGDEN

Many have heard of the unique experience and the fruitage that resulted from sending the "Signs of the Times," during the year 1892, nearly half a century ago, when this pioneer missionary paper was published at Oakland, California, to a family in Demerara, British Guiana, South America. A number of these papers were left wrapped by the receiver, and unread. About two years ago a son, unborn when the papers were being received, now past forty years of age, was visiting in the home of his parents and discovered a number of copies of these "Signs" yet in their original wrappers. His curiosity and interest led him to ask his parents for these papers. To make a long story short, the son became so aroused by what he read in the papers that he soon began the observance of the Sabbath. He is now a baptized church member. Thus this seed that had lain dormant for nearly fifty years has germinated and brought forth fruit. No doubt the sender of the "Signs" is resting in sleep, awaiting the call of the Life-giver. What will be the joy in the kingdom of God when he meets this brother and perhaps others whom he may be instrumental in bringing to the truth! At the time when these papers were sent, there were no Seventhday Adventists in the colony of British Guiana. Today there is a growing organized conference, the membership of which is reaching the two-thousand mark. This experience illustrates the parable that the kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed sown in the field. "He said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; and should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in ,the ear. But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come." Mark 4: 26-29.

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AUSTRALASIAN RECORD

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

A. V. OLSON

In times of great crisis, there are certain human tendencies, or weaknesses, that must be guarded against. Perhaps the two most dangerous ones are panic and paralysis. Many, when they find themselves confronted with serious danger, are suddenly seized with feelings of panic. They lose their composure and their self-control. They may become very active, but their efforts are wild and misdirected. As a result, their frantic labours accomplish no good. On the contrary, they usually lead to confusion, sorrow, and irreparable loss. A few years ago a large ocean liner was steaming down the Atlantic coast of North America, filled to capacity with vacationists and pleasure seekers. Suddenly the blood-curdling cry of "Fire!" rang through the ship. Immediately officers ana crew were seized with panic. Loud and contradictory orders were shouted. Frantic men were running about in wild confusion. They toiled and perspired, but accomplished nothing. Every passing minute the fire was spreading rapidly through the proud ship, turning it into a roaring furnace. Before a rescue ship could reach the place, hundreds of men, women, and children perished in the flames, and scores of others, who had leaped across the railing of the deck, had drowned in the sea. All this loss of life could have been avoided if all, and especially those in charge, had kept their heads cool and their nerves steady. There were sufficient lifeboats on the ship for all on board. With proper order and wise direction, every man, woman, and child could have been taken off the ship before it was destroyed by the names. Today Europe is on fire. The whole continent is in the midst of a terrible crisis. It is a time of trouble and anguish for men and for nations. It is also a time of trouble and anxiety for the church of God. In a time such as this there is danger that many will lose their equilibrium and become panic-stricken. This, however, is no time for excitement and confusion. It is no time for fear and discouragement. Now, as never before, we need to keep calm, steady, fearless, and strong. The exigencies of the hour demand courageous and intelligent action. This is true for the nations, for the business world, and also for the church. In the forty - sixth Psalm there is a remarkable picture that we do well to study. On the one hand is a terrible earthquake, whole mountains being uprooted and hurled into the depths of a tempestuous sea. On the other hand, a fearful war is raging, great armies slaughtering and destroying one another. In the midst of this terrifying scene stands the servant of God, calm and serene. From heaven he hears a voice saying, "Be still, and know that I am God," and from his own lips come the words, "The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge." "Therefore will not we fear." The spirit expressed here by the Psalmist is the spirit that should characterize every child of God in this time of storm and upheaval. We must not allow ourselves to become panicky. With quiet trust in God, we must remain calm and courageous.

As already mentioned at the beginning of this article, the second danger to be guarded against in a time of crisis is paralysis. Not all become panicky in a crisis. Many are paralysed with fear. This is true physically, and it is also true mentally and morally. In the history of the children of Israel we find recorded several experiences which make this evident. When the spies came back from Canaan with their report of walled cities and mighty giants, nearly the whole congregation was paralysed with fear. Everything looked dark and impossible to them. They saw no way to advance. They lost all their hope, and all their energy. Because of this, the children of Israel had to wander about in the wilderness for nearly forty years until these faithless paralytics were laid in their graves and a new generation grew up that dared to brave the dangers of Canaan. Another forceful example is found in the experience of the Jews who returned from the Babylonian captivity with both permission and instruction from the king to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. At first all worked with a will, and good progress was made; but after a while troubles arose. Their enemies created all kinds of difficulties for them, finally threatening them with destruction if they did not stop building. The climax of the crisis was reached when the enemies brought orders from the new king to cease their work. This was too much for those poor, struggling Jews. They lost their nerve. Paralysed with fear, they dropped their tools and ceased their labours. This shows what can happen even to the people of God in a time of crisis if they fail to keep their eyes fixed upon their divine Leader, looking instead at the forbidding conditions about them. If the temple builders had gone forward with firm trust in the God who had brought them back from their captivity, and who had commanded them to rebuild the temple, they would have succeeded in spite of all the efforts of the enemy to stop them. When a few years later the prophet Haggai came with a stirring message from God to arise and build, they finished the work in a few weeks' time, notwithstanding the fact that conditions were exactly as difficult and unfavourable as when the work was abandoned. Today the people of God have a great task to accomplish. This work must go forward in time of crisis as well as under more favourable circumstances. Just now, when Europe is passing through a time of danger and distress, we must guard ourselves lest we be stricken with either panic or paralysis. There must be neither excitement nor inactivity, and members must courageously press forward. No matter how dark and impossible things may look, conference committees, institutional boards, and church committees must plan to keep all lines and departments in God's cause moving forward in a strong, orderly way; pastors, evangelists, and Bible workers must not slacken their efforts to win souls. If they cannot employ old plans and methods, they must find new ones. The important thing is that souls be saved.

If our colporteur lines have been thinned out because some have been called to serve their country (or for some other reason), let others take their places. If there are not brethren who can do it, let the sisters step forward and fill up the ranks. The work of God must not suffer loss. The Big Week and Harvest Ingathering campaigns must also be remembered and pushed strongly. Our foreign missions depend to a large degree on the income from these campaigns for their support. Surely we do not want our missionaries in these far-away fields to suffer for lack of food. God also expects us all to be faithful in bringing our tithes and offerings to the storehouse, that there may be meat in His house, and that He may be able to pour out a blessing upon His people. Instead of allowing present trying circumstances to hinder or defeat us in the accomplishment of our God-given task, we must calmly and courageously press forward in the spirit and power of the Lord. As never before, workers and members must seek to warn and to win the lost. If by faith we go forward in obedience to God's command, He will faithfully perform His part. His promise is: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the riglit hand of My righteousness." Isa. 41: 10. In closing, I wish to quote a few lines from the pen of the servant of the Lord that I hope may prove as helpful to the readers of this article as they have been to me. They read as follows: "Christ did not fail, neither was He discouraged; and His followers are to manifest a faith of the same enduring nature. They are to live as He lived, and work as He worked, because they depend on Him as the great Master-worker. "Courage, energy, and perseverance they must possess. Though apparent impossibilities obstruct their way, by His grace they are to go forward. Instead of deploring difficulties, they are called upon to surmount them. They are to despair of nothing, and to hope for everything. With the golden chain of His matchless love, Christ had bound them to the throne of God. It is His purpose that the highest influence in the universe, emanating from the Source of all power, shall be theirs. They are to have power to resist evil, power that neither earth, nor death, nor hell can master, power that will enable them to overcome as Christ overcame." "Gospel Workers," page 39.

"There We Saw the Giants"

Yes, they saw the giants, but Caleb and Joshua saw God. Those who doubt say, "We be not able to go up." Those who believe say, "Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able." Giants stand for great difficulties; and giants are stalking everywhere. They are in our families, in our churches, in our social life, in our own hearts; and we must overcome them or they will eat us up, as these men of old said of the giants of Canaan. The men of faith said, "They are bread for us; we will eat them up." In other words, "We will be stronger by overcoming them than if there had been no giants to overcome." Now the fact is, unless we have the overcoming faith we shall be eaten up,

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consumed by the giants in our path. Let battle wages long, they become discourSabbath School Secretary: Miss G. Hadus have the spirit of faith that these men aged, and surrender. God has nothing field. of ;faith had, and see God, and He will worth having that is easy. There are no Home Missions Secretary: E. R. Whitetake care of the difficulties. cheap goods in the heavenly market. Our head. It is when we are in the way of duty redemption cost all that God had to give, Missionary Volunteer Secretary: W. T. that we find giants. It was when Israel and everything worth having is expensive. Hooper. was going forward that the giants ap- Hard places are the very school of faith Assistant Missionary Volunteer Secrepeared. When they turned back into the and character, and if we are to rise over tary with special responsibility for the wilderness they found none. There is a mere human strength and prove the J.M.V. section: Miss L. M. Britten. prevalent idea that the power of God in power of life divine in these mortal bodies, Educational Secretary: A. H. Piper. a human life should lift us above all trials it must be through a process of conflict Field Missionary Secretary: E.A.Turner. and conflicts. The fact is, the power of that may well be called the birth travail Religious Liberty Secretary: A. H. Piper. God always tarings a conflict and a of a new life. It is the old figure of the Executive Committee: A. H. Piper, W. E. struggle. One would have thought that bush that burned, but was not consumed, Battye, G. G. Stewart, W. H. Bagnall, on his great missionary journey to Rome, or of the vision in the house of the E. A. Turner, B. Hart, J. Coombs. Paul would have been carried by some Interpreter of the flame that would not Conclusion mighty providence above the power of expire, notwithstanding the fact that the storms and tempests and enemies. But, demon ceaselessly poured water on it, While expressions of regret were heard on the contrary, it was one long, hard because in the background stood an angel from many that there was no campfight with persecuting Jews, with wild ever pouring oil and keeping the flame meeting this year, yet on the other hand tempests, with venomous vipers, and all aglow. the meetings held in the Stanmore church the powers of earth and hell, and at last No, dear suffering child of God, you were much appreciated by those who were he was saved, as it seemed, by the nar- cannot fail if only you dare to believe, to privileged to attend. A good spirit prerowest margin, and had to swim ashore stand fast and refuse to be overcome. vailed, and the Bible studies that were at Malta on a piece of wreckage and barely Selected. given were much appreciated. Very few escape a watery grave. changes were made in the location of Was that like a God of infinite power? workers, but it is understood that this Yes, just like Him. And so Paul tells us matter will be considered later in the South N.S.W. Conference that when he took the Lord Jesus Christ year. Brother Martin Pascoe is being transferred to Broken Hill, and Pastor as the life of his body, a severe conflict Session immediately came; indeed, a conflict that Parsons will connect with the work at W. H. HOPKIN, Secretary-treasurer never ended, a pressure that was perSydney. sistent, but out of which he always emerged As this is the last report I shall write Owing to the uncertainty of world con- in my official capacity as secretary of victorious through the strength of Jesus Christ. The language in which he de- ditions the Annual camp-meeting for 1940 the conference, I would like to express scribes this is most graphic: "We are was cancelled. In order, however, to meet my appreciation to the members of the troubled on every side, yet not distressed; the requirements of the Constitution, a conference for their loyal co-operation. we are perplexed, but not in despair; short conference session was held from As I look back over the years, I can recall persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, October 4-7, 1940, in the Stanmore church. many happy experiences. I trust that but not destroyed; always bearing about The meetings were fairly well attended, God may richly bless you all. It is a good in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, and the business of the conference was family to belong to. I would also like to that the life also of Jesus might be made conducted in a harmonious spirit. The thank the workers for their loyalty and various reports which were presented re- love. It has been a wonderful association, manifest in our body." What a ceaseless, strenuous struggle! vealed good progress, and it was evident and I shall never forget it. May God It is impossible to express in English the that the blessing of God had rested upon richly bless you all and keep you loyal forcible language of the original. There the work. General workers present were to His truth. My farewell message is are five pictures in succession. In the Pastors E. B. Rudge, A. G. Stewart, W. J. 2 Tim. 2: 15: "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needfirst, the idea is crowding enemies press- Westerman, and Brother R. H. Adair. The Sabbath meetings were held in the eth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing ing in from every side, and yet not crushAssembly Hall, and attracted a large the Word of truth." ing him because the police of heaven cleared the way just wide enough for him congregation. On Sabbath afternoon Pasto get through. The literal translation tor A. G. Stewart presented the needs of would be, "We are crowded on every side, the mission field, the response being very Experiences in Bible Work gratifying. Nearly 700 was received in but not crushed." The second picture is that of one whose cash and pledges. MISS M. McDOWELL The financial report rendered by the way seems utterly closed and yet he has We located some years ago in a large, pressed through; there is light enough to treasurer showed in a definite way that show him the next step. The Revised God had blessed the work. The tithe for prosperous town on the Murray River Version translates it, "Perplexed, but not 1939 was a record, and the tithe for the where the message had not previously been unto despair." Rotherham still more lit- eight months ended August 31, 1940, was presented. The missioner was the late erally renders it, "Without a way, but not another record. We are glad for this Pastor J. Steed, and he was assisted by assurance of the faithfulness of God's Brother Alf Bullas and the writer. without a by-way." The tent caused a great stir. Every The third figure is that of an enemy in people. While there have been difficulties hot pursuit while the divine Defender to meet and overcome, the work has ad- minister was preaching against us every still stands by, and he is not left alone. vanced. We can surely face the future Sunday, while one minister never missed Again we adopt the fine rendering of with confidence, knowing that we have a tent meeting. Our meetings were held after church services. Many people were Rotherham, "Pursued but not abandoned." a Leader who has never lost a battle. convinced, but preachers, elders, and deaThe fourth figure is still more vivid and There is always a tinge of sadness when -cons did much shepherding. In three dramatic. The enemy has overtaken him, the secretary reads the names of those months eight precious souls were baptized. has struck him, has knocked him down. who have laid down life's burdens. How- Pour of the new converts went to AvonBut it is not a fatal blow; he is able to ever, we are encouraged by the promise dale and some went to Gippsland. rise again. It might be translated, "Over- of the blessed hope. Pastor Steed and Brother Bullas moved thrown but not overcome." On Monday afternoon at the conclusion on, but I was left in charge, as one Once more the figure advances, and of the conference sessions, an ordination valuable church member had not decided. now it seems to be even death itself, service was held at which Brother K. J. Her husband used to burn all our books "Always bearing about in the body the Wooller was ordained to the gospel min- on the message. An evangelist came to dying of the Lord Jesus." But he does not istry. We trust that God will richly bless her church to help her against the evil die, for "the life also of Jesus" now comes Pastor Wooller as he labours for the thing besetting her. He visited and to his aid, and he lives in the life of salvation of souls. preached. One night he laboured long Another until his life work is done. to show there was no law. Then he gave Officers Elected The reason why so many fail in this out a hymn"Sinners Jesus Will Receive." experience of prevailing prayer is because - President: A. H. Piper. As we sang, "Free before the law I stand," they expect to have it all without a strugSecretary-treasurer: P. A. Donaldson. the church member looked at her two gle, and when the conflict comes and the Tract Society Secretary: L. H. Allum: ministers on the platform. They were

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singing also! It crossed her mind that they did not know their position, and she felt convinced there and then of the existence of the law. Some time after she wanted to know about the tithe, as she had an amount of money in the bank, the residue of a legacy left her some years back, which she always felt must stay in the bank till she knew more about the tithe. After a study she handed me a cheque for 100, the tithe of the whole amount. This precious soul remained faithful till her death lately. I visited two other border towns, and canvassed every home with tracts. At one house a lady visitor said, "Would you come to my home to tea? I wish to know something about Seventh-day Adventists." We spent a profitable evening, and after this a company met every week and we continued to study together. One night two ministers came. They did not interrupt, but when we were finished they asked some questions. We were there till 12:15 a.m. They prayed for the Lord to bless me and my work. Two kept the Sabbath in this town,' and both remained faithful. Going further to a junction town, I had studies for some weeks in a home where a young man was staying who had never bothered with religion. He thought the Bible had been written by capitalists to down the working-man. When he saw and heard Daniel 2, he asked for a Bible. His 'sister told me she never knew him to look in one before. This young man, who was an inveterate cigarette smoker, and a niece, later accepted the message. One has been elder and the other a worker in one of our churches in another state.

'AUSTRALASIAN RECORD
We do receive many letters, and at times are eager to renew their subscriptions to some of the writers come to see us. Some the "Signs." They tell of men running have come from great distances. Business after them, with cash in hand, ready to or something else has brought them to pay for a subscription. One colporteur, after having finished Seoul, and they look us up and meet us personally. They are generally surprised the work in a certain district, was on the to find that the editor is a woman. My bus ready to leave. Suddenly a man came Chinese name does not give me away, running to the bus, waving his hands and neither does it give them the impression all out of breath. He said, "Wait just a moment; here is a sum of two yen. Take it that I am a foreigner. A few weeks ago the assistant editor and send the 'Signs' to me so that I can received a very interesting letter from a have it again for another year. I nearly man in the South who had been greatly missed seeing you. I was so afraid that impressed by a certain article written by you would get away before I got here, and our assistant. He stated that seventeen then I would have had to do without the years ago he came in contact with Chris- 'Signs' for a whole year." We recently heard of another man who tianity, but was repulsed from accepting it because of the inconsistent life of a waited three years for the colporteur, so church elder. However, as a result of that he could again subscribe lor the reading the "Signs," he has of late been "Signs." He was greatly disappointed that greatly impressed and convinced that the colporteur missed him and that he was there is something to religion. He asked without our good paper all that time. various questions, which were answered in Hearing that the colporteur was in the the next issue of the "Signs" by an article town, this man looked him up, and finally written specially for him. We firmly be- found him just as he was ready to leave lieve that the leaven of truth will continue the district. When he came he had the to work in his heart, and that this dear money in hand, and quickly gave the soul, who seems to be "gasping for a colporteur his name and address. A well-to-do, influential man, a graduate breath of life from heaven," will finally of a university in Japan, expressed great take his stand for the truth. About two months ago, a dentist from pleasure in meeting one of our reprethe city called upon us. He has been sentatives a few weeks ago. He didn't taking the "Signs" for several years, and give the colporteur a chance to canvass was eager to meet the editors. So finally him, but at once gave his name and cash he came, and we had an interesting visit. for the subscription. He then asked if He is a very fine man, and we are sorry we had other publications, and proceeded that we do not have the time to return to buy a copy of all that the colporteur his call, but trust that by reading he will carried. become more eager to join the company An official was very busy when the colof those who "would see Jesus." porteur called. But when he found that For some time we have been in contact he represented the "Signs" magazine, he with a fine young man in the South, who at once became very friendly and gave his is working in the magistrate's office. He subscription, saying, "There are two reahas accepted Christ as his Saviour as the sons why I wish to take this paper. First, result of reading the "Signs," and is now the Signs Press has built up a wonderful very anxious for the way to open so that reputation; and secondly, the literature it produces is of the highest quality; it is he can keep the Sabbath. Early in the spring another man from a intellectual and cultural, and it is of great long distance came to Seoul on business value. It is my desire to read the 'Signs' for the first time. He has been a sub- as long as I live." The only contact that many will have scriber to the "Signs" for some time, and greatly enjoys the magazine. He decided with the message is through our literato look us up before returning to his home ture. We tremble as we think' of the great in the country. He was eager to talk, and responsibility that is ours. inquired if we had other books or magazines. When he saw our beautiful stock of books, he purchased quite a number to A Day with a Colporteur take to his sons and daughters, who are all young people, eager to read. He came C. E. WEAKS out to see us the second time, and also attended a Sabbath service. Some twenty-five years ago a colporteur Another man, one of those unassuming brother sold a book to a school teacher. middle-aged sincere type, comes to see us The teacher became interested in the every time that he comes to the city. He message the book contained, and accepted lives away out in the country, in the it. Later the colporteur and the teacher western part of Korea. The first time became interested in each other and were that he came to see us he had not yet married. Since their marriage they nave decided for Christ, but was greatly im- been joined in service in the literature pressed with what he read in the "Signs." ministry. They have been used of God in He bought some of our books and returned placing thousands of our message-filled home. The sepond time he purchased a books in the homes of the people. The Bible, and began to read it. The third following interesting story is taken from time we had prayer together, and that was our sister's diary of a day's work in the the first prayer he ever heard uttered. literature ministry. The last time that he visited us he "Come with me for one day in the colattended the Sabbath services and also porteur work. It's July second, and a took part in the testimony meeting. We very hot day. have not seen him for several months, "In the first house the lady was much but I believe that ere long he will request interested, and ordered a cloth 'Bible baptism. It has been a great pleasure to Readings,' paying $2 down. The next see the leaven of truth working in his house, a de luxe; and also the next; then heart. we find a lady who tells us she has the Our colporteurs tell of unusual experi- same book, and from her bookcase she ences they have in meeting people who brings forth the 'Bible Readings.' It

The Korean "Signs" Is Wield ing a Powerful Influence

THEODORA WANGERIN Editor "Signs of the Times," Seoul, Korea. For more than thirty years the Korean "Signs" has been faithfully and silently preaching the third angel's message. We believe it has been true to its mission. Thousands have accepted Christ as their Saviour, and hundreds have accepted the message for this time and joined the small company of God's commandment-keeping people. It has made many friends for God's work. The "Signs of the Times" is still the most popular magazine in Korea. It is read by doctors and lawyers, peasants and city dwellers, the youth and the aged. People from all walks of life all who are of any importance in Korea, read the "Signs." This paper is read with great interest by the lepers in one of the leper colonies down South. A number of librarians have requested the "Signs," as the young people like to read it, and the reading matter it contains is considered to be of the best. Japanese officials who are studying the Korean use the "Signs" in their language work. They consider it one of the best helps available. The principles we uphold are admired by many. The names of the editors are known far and wide. We are told that many of the subscribers are anxious to meet the editors. I am sure it would be very interesting to meet our many readers.

AUSTRALASIAN RECORD didn't take long to sell her another book as a companion to the one she has, so 'Great Controversy' is going into that home. "Now we come to a nice home, and are told that they have 'Bible Readings' also, and out she comes with the same book. 'Well, now you should have that companion book, "Great Controversy"'; but she said, 'I have it also,' and out that comes. Soon I was surrounded with a number more of Seventh-day Adventist books, and I said, 'Where do you get all these good books?' She said, 'Twenty years ago I was a Seventh-day Adventist.' It seems that her husband had taken a position to work on the Sabbath, and soon the whole family was out of the truth. Well, we had a good talk which ended in prayer, and tears in the eyes of the woman, who said, 'If once you are a Seventh-day Adventist you can't be satisfied until you get back into it again.' She ordered 'Life and Health' for one year, and wants us to remember her in our prayers. "One lady said, 'This is just what I have always wanted,' as she ordered over thirteen dollars' worth of our literature. "Another woman had just come home from the hospital, and my visit seemed to comfort her, and she ordered the 'Bible Readings,' saying she intended to study God's Word more. "Now we shall tell of one more experience today. The mother is burdened for a son who was once interested in spiritual things, but who has drifted with associates who have taken him away from God. She wasn't able to order the book, but as I was about to leave, the son, a fine-looking young man, entered. I stepped forward, and gave another canvass, which much interested the young man, and he ordered the book. He told me how he had drifted, and wanted to get back again. He had been to a Seventh-day Adventist church school for three years, and felt he should be a Seventh-day Adventist. I had prayer before I left, and he promised to come to our services, and said he was going to have his friends read that book with him. Please pray for this young man. "I haven't time to write more of this one day's work, only to say that my orders came to the value of $49, and I went home happy, not only for the good orders, but the experiences which were very precious." What an interesting day this must have been! Yet it is only one from the many which our dear colporteurs are enjoying as they minister to the needs of waiting souls who are reaching out for something that this world cannot give. What an opening this work provides for many Seventh-day Adventist couples who have a desire to work for God in a more definite way than they are now doing! And what season of the year could be better for entering this work than right now when Christmas is coming and people will be wanting to purchase gifts? If the Lord has been speaking to you about this work, why not sit down and write to the field missionary secretary of your conference and tell him about your desires and burdens? With events taking shape so rapidly, telling us that the end is right upon us, surely this is a time when the call of the Lord should be answered by the coming of the man saying, "Here am I, send me."

11/11/40

THE SABBATH SCHOOL

A re You An Investor?
Somehow a Thirteenth Sabbath is a "high" day with us. It is a day that finalizes the work of the quarter; a day that has a special aim to be reached; a day in which the children like to have a part. On such a Sabbath, we, the members of the Wahroonga school, met with the anticipation of reaching our aim of 50. As the mission objective was Papua, we were privileged to have with us Brother E. Boehm, who was able to bring before the school, in a very definite way, the needs of that field. The response to the appeal was excellent, for the aim was not only reached but surpassed, making a grand total of 94. The suggestion had been made that the offering be a paper one. In the front of the school was a post-box, and to the side a map of the islands against which stood our Papuan missionary, pointing out the field which was to benefit by our offerings. Bridging the space from the post-box to the map was a string of notes a tangible evidence of our desire to see the fulfilment of Matt. 24: 14. We find that the Sabbath school provides an avenue for the activity of all the child, the youth, and the adult. Thus, it was the combined efforts of the children anfi the adults that made possible the joy of achievement. Let us for a moment take a retrospective view of the activities of the school. At the beginning of the quarter, with a membership of 53, the junior division of the Sabbath school decided to get busy with Investment. It is remarkable what can be accomplished with a willing hand and a willing mind. The following are some of the ways in which the juniors took part: Cases of apples were bought and retailed again; cakes and cream puffs were baked and sold by the superintendent and childrenand what a ready sale they had! One boy had a pen of fowls of his own, from which he donated the Sabbath eggs, thereby raising 1. Two others sold eggs, and another donated Sabbath eggs; one girl sold grape-fruit; some earned theirs by doing errands, carrying milk, carting and selling barrow-loads of manure and firewood, gardening, and crochet-work. The result of their efforts was an Investment offering of 14 10s. Can't you imagine the thrill, the excitement!something worth while had been accomplished. Yes, it was grand to be an Investment worker. It does bring some real surprises, for who would guess that Sabbath eggs would 'bring in 1? Yes, who would imagine that the efforts of the juniors would result in 14 10s.? It was worth it all. Investment Day is fine, I say; No telling what surprises! If you would share a blessing rare, Join these good folk, I do declare. They made the plan a real success Because of their unselfishness. God blessed their work in every way, While they thought of Investment Day! A Member.

Growing Pains at Wellington, New Zealand

MISS A. E. DOUGLASS You will be interested to know that while in Wellington recently we organized a Sabbath school, church, and Missionary Volunteer society at Miramar. There are about forty Sabbath school members. One of the older members has been conducting a Sabbath school with non-Adventist children there for quite a few years. Two of the children who attended are now young people, and have been baptized. Most of the remaining members have been brought in as a result of the mission which has been conducted by Pastor N. C. Burns. He has had a successful time there, and the Wellington church is overcrowded, so the seniors meet for Sabbath school and church in a hall, while the children have their Sabbath school in the church. This, of course, is rather inconvenient, but they are hoping to organize another church soon, and if that is done the Wellington church building should be large enough to accommodate those who will attend there. The Wellington Investment for last quarter amounted to 41 16s. lid. They received 58 18s. Id. for their Thirteenth Sabbath offering, and their total gifts for the quarter registered 110 10s. 7d. An average of 84 out of a membership of 135 studied the lesson daily, and they have been conducting a Teachers' Training Course class with 17 members in attendance. We hope to receive their examination papers soon.

Doing for Others a Health Asset

DANIEL H. KRESS, M.D.

Whenever in the past I was successful in getting a patient to take an interest in other patients, I knew there would be improvement. The despondent forgot their despondency and began to build up. I have seen this demonstrated again and again. Some years ago I had under my care a prominent judge. He was a sick manof this there could be no doubt. He naturally worried about it. At times he became almost desperate. He had to be watched. A nurse was with him constantly. Instead of improving, he became gradually worse. One day he came into my office, handed me a razor and surgical pocket case, and said, "Doctor, take these. I am afraid of myself." I had exhausted my resources medically. The diet and the treatments could not be improved upon, as far as I could see. I said to him, "Judge, sit down." Then, turning to him, I said, "Do you ever pray?" To my surprise he said, "Yes, I pray." After a few moments' thought I said, "Whom do you pray for?" "For myself," he replied. "Judge," said I, "why don't you pray for others who are equally needy?" I then told him of one case I had that had baffled all medical skill, and said to him, "Here is a case that you could do more for than I can. If you would take him out for a walk each day, and cheer him up, he would improve." I related to him the experience of Job, and how he fell into the habit of pitying himself and finding fault with his

H/II/4O

AUSTRALASIAN RECORD
not, because ye ask amiss," may be said of these. God says: "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily. . . . Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am." Isa. 58: 6-9. Unselfish praying always brings results. The man who appealed to his neighbour in behalf of a friend who was in need received what he asked for. He said: "Lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine out of his way [margin] is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him." He had nothing. But he knew someone who had food, and he appealed to him, and "because of his importunity" for one more needy than himself, he reecived all he asked for. The promise to all is, "Ask, and it shall be given you. . . . For everyone that asketh receiveth." The widow who in a time of severe famine had left merely a handful of meal and a few drops of oil, shared the little she had with a stranger and traveller who was weary and in need, and "the barrel of meal wasted not, neither did the cruse .of oil fail." "She, and he, and her house, did eat many days." All God asks is that we give "such as we have." This, all can do. If we have but little, let that little be dedicated to Him for service, and more will be given. "For he that hath, to him shall be given; and he that hath not from him shall be taken even that which he hath." There is no better remedy for the blues than this: "If you are feeling blue, something for someone else go do." "Is thy cruse of comfort failing? Rise and share it with another, And through all the years of famine It will serve thee and thy brother. Heaven itself will fill thy storehouse, And thy handful still renew. Scanty fare for one becomes A royal feast for two." ing steadily to the work. Some districts are more difficult than others, but everywhere there is & spirit of deep loyalty to God and a determination to see this whole dreadful business through to the end. Our College is still operating normally, and also our Health Food Factory and our Press. Our Sanitarium is now used by the Government for the treatment of nervous disorders. Our public evangelism is more difficult under war conditions, but our men are finding new avenues of approach, and God is blessing them. We have just concluded the most successful Ingathering Campaign in our history, and it looks as though we shall reach the goal of 2 per member. We never had quite such a difficult campaign, nor such a successful one. Your offers to help evacuated children from Britain have touched our hearts, and possibly some of these offers may be accepted in due course. At the moment the disposition of our people is to hold their families together and face the worst, trusting to the Lord. Evidently the coming of the Lord is near at hand, and we live in the days when we must practise the faith we have so long preached. We are full of courage and confidence, and we rest under the shadow of the Almighty. We pray for our fellow believers in Australia, and send them our Christian love.

AUSTRALASIAN RECORD
Official Organ of the AUSTRALASIAN UNION CONFERENCE OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS
EDITOR: ASSOCIATE EDITOR: H. E. PIPER S. V. STRATFORD 5/-

Single Subscription, per year, post paid -

Order through your conference office, or send direct to the Signs Publishing Co., Warburton, Victoria. All copy for the paper should be sent to The Editor, RECORD, "Mizpah," Wahroonga, N.S.W. Printed weekly for the Conference by the Signs Publishing Co., Warburton, Victoria

friends because they failed to pity him. He even found fault with God. The time came when Job confessed his wrong, and then the Lord told him to pray for his friends instead of himself. The record reads, "And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends." The judge followed my advice. He took this other patient out for walks, and cheered him up. It was a surprise to me to see how quickly his annoying symptoms disappeared. Not only was he helped, but the other patient got well. The judge came to my office and said, "Doctor, have you another hard case?" More than one of my patients were helped more by his ministry than by mine. The judge became so interested in his work that six months later he wrote a letter from his home in which he said his work on the bench was uninteresting and unsatisfactory when compared with the work he did while at the sanitarium, and that he was not feeling so well. He asked if he might not return and aid me for a period of six months. We invited him to come, and for six months he aided me as he did before. He thoroughly enjoyed it. He had learned the more excellent way of living, and nothing short of this personal ministry could ever satisfy him afterwards. The judge, I found, had been a man of prayer before he came to the sanitarium. He prayed, but his prayers were selfish. He prayed only for himself. It was unpleasant to be sick and feel nervous. He did not pray that God would make him a blessing to others. When he began to pray for others and to take an interest in them, the Lord turned his captivity as He did in the case of Job. Praying for and helping those who are needy, soothes irritated nerves and calms restless brain cells. The sleep of such is usually sweet. There are many in this world who, like the judge., pray. Their prayers are unanswered and they are disappointed and disheartened. They think God has forgotten to be gracious. "Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?" God's answer to such is: "Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him?" To go about with bowed head, complaining of God's providences, thinking merely of one's comfort, and praying merely for self, is the surest way of neutralizing our prayers and defeating our desires. "Ye ask, and receive

WEDDING BELLS
OLSEN-NEWBOLD.The South Brisbane church was much too small to accommodate the number who desired to attend the marriage of Lloyd Olsen and Oral Newbold on October 22, 1940. The bride is the daughter of Brother and Sister L. E. Newbold of Brisbane. Brother Newbold was for years in our ministry. The church was beautifully decorated, and the young couple carry with them the best wishes of a large circle of friends. E. H. Guilliard.

A WORD OF THANKS

Message to the Australasian Division Committee

From the British Union Committee

It was with great joy that we recently received your greetings and assurances of prayerful remembrance at this difficult time. This message came so spontaneously that it means a great deal to us, and it has been published in its entirety in our church paper. The British Union Conference Committee cordially reciprocates the kindly Christian sentiments of your message. We send our Christian greetings to all our dear people in far-away Australia. We know how much you love the principles of liberty for which the Empire stands, and above all the truth and freedom of the gospel which are embodied in the blessed advent message, so dear to our hearts. Despite the trying times, we are pressing on with our work over here, and every one of our workers and church officers is hold-

Brother A. R. Hiscox of the New Guinea Training School wishes us to express on his behalf sincere thanks to many of our people who responded so well to the published request for books and papers suitable for the school library. He states that these volumes are deeply appreciated and will be a great help, and adds that any further gifts along this line will be welcome. The A.U.C. Buying Agency, 125 Day Street, Sydney, will forward parcels. TO LET midst hills overlooking ocean and lakes, furnished rooms and flat, charges moderate, board optional. B. L. Todd, - Rickard Road, Narrabeen North, N.S.W. TO LET over Christmas, house at Warburton with large, clean, airy rooms and large number of both single and double beds. Would suit three married couples, small families, or party of girls. Available from December 18 to January 5. Apply Signs Publishing Co., Warburton, Victoria.

AUSTRALASIAN RECORD

11/11/40
all. As Miss Smart tested us on our arithmetic and Grammar and other school work I was very frightened, but she told us that they were not hard one, but you know, I just got two right. I think of Miss Smart as a loving lady and not cruel. When she went away I was sorry." Michael's: "When Miss Smart came I was very glad to see her. When she came into school to give us a lettle test I thought the test was simple, and when I came to do them I found it was very hard. But I was glad I had some mark. I was glad when Miss Smart went so she could not give us any more hard test."

l\[ptes
Her furlough having expired, Miss C. Guiot has returned to her lonely station in New Caledonia. Brother George Bower, a student of the West Australian College, has been called to serve in the Perth Conference office. Pastor George Masters, who has been located in Tumut, N.S.W., has now joined the evangelical staff in South Australia. On their way from South New Zealand to North N.S.W., Brother and Sister Evan Tucker and little son are spending their holidays with relatives in South N.S.W. We are happy to learn of the safe arrival of Miss W. Niebuhr from Papua. After a well-earned rest she will connect with the North N.S.W.. Conference for school teaching. Pastor W. J. Westerman is spending a few weeks in North N.S.W. visiting among the churches; while at the same time Pastor T. A. Mitchell is assisting with the Big Week activities in South Australia. On the last day of October, Miss Marjorie Brown sailed for Auckland, where she will be attached to the staff of the conference office. A week prior to her departure she was farewelled at a pleasant evening arranged, by her friends at Wahroonga. The Liberty Theatre, Bourke Street, Melbourne, is the scene of Pastor Conley's latest series of mission lectures. On the opening night, October 20, approximately 800 persons were present. The same night Pastor George Burnside opened a mission in a packed Town Hall at Burnie, Tasmania. "Our plans are all completed for the building of the church," Pastor B. A. Greive writes from Innisfail, North Queensland. "Yesterday we had quite a team of workers engaged in levelling the site in readiness for a start next week. A Spanish family with whom I am studying brought in their tractor, and as we were able to procure a plough and scoop from the Council, we did a big job in a short space of time. We were fortunate in winning to the faith a brother who is a capable builder and contractor as well as a consistent and wonderful Christian, and we have about 1,060 in hand for the erection of the building." In a letter full of courage, Pastor W. D. Smith reports from Norfolk Island: "I wish to make mention of one soul who has for the first time surrendered to the Lord. Long years have passed since the gospel seed was sown in her heart, and now to the surprise of all her relatives and friends she has accepted the Lord as her Saviour. Great physical affliction (as is so often the case) seems to be the means God has used to bring this dear sister in humility to the cross. A well-known personage here, and a daughter of one of our faithful members, this woman now delights to inform all who visit her of her new-found joy and faith."

Compositions from the Monamona Mission School

Recently it was the editor's privilege to listen to several compositions written by aboriginal children of our mission school at Monamona. The subject was the visit of Miss M. M. Smart of the Education Department of the Union Conference. We felt that our readers would be as interested in these compositions as we were. For obvious reasons Miss Smart was reluctant to let us publish these, but finally consented. The comments in parentheses are by Miss Elsie Wood, the teacher. One writer, whose name is Maurice, won the Silver Cup for essay writing for aboriginal children in the whole of Australia. Maurice is a full-blooded aboriginal. "The Inspector. By Selwyn Hunter. (I hope that you will be able to get what he means by his first statement, for I can't.) Well, I wasn't any kindly or unkind, but I never say anything about her. She always has a smile's on her face. That how I like a lady to cheer up peoples because of their smiles and kind action she showed on us while she were taken our exam at Monamona school. Afterward I wished to be a teacher in the future." (At least Selwyn is inspired to be a teacher. In years to come when he is a successful teacher, he will be able to look back and say, "Miss Smart inspired me.")
This Is Lionel's:

The Embezzlement of Ideas

A. W. ANDEBSON

"For a long time we didn't have any Inspector up here and I was glad she came because we all were looking for one to come and we were so glad that Miss Smart came up here. When she came we all thought she was going to be rough and unkind to us but we found that she was kind looking. I was glad for the test which she gave us although it was a bit hard, but that doesn't matter and when she went I was happy." (At least, Lionel is candid.)
Maurice's:

"This is the first time we have had an inspector in our school. Of course we haven't had an inspector to examine our books and to see if we knew anything. Anyway, I like Miss Smart because she was kind and sympathetic with us. I don't like an inspector that is unkind and rough. I wasn't a scrap afraid of Miss Smart, because of her kind way and sympathy to us. I hope to do better next time she comes." Caesar's: "I like Miss Smart. When she gave the children test, I was very frighten, and when I went home I thought how I would get on the next time and when I wake up the morrow, I came in the school and saw Miss Smart with mental in his hand. Then I thought what I want to be frighten of him for. Then she said goodbye to us and we went out of school. Some of the boys said, we all like Miss Smart and we wish she would stay here for the Sabbath."
Flo's:

"On Thursday night Miss Smart came from Sydney to our school at Monamona. She is the inspector of the school. While she was here I thought to myself that she was very strick, but after a few days I saw her that she was not strick after

In the "Australian Hospital," July, 1940, there appears an article on the above subject, which we take the liberty of reprinting and which we commend to the consideration of all our readers. Frequently, ideas really worth while are suggested by some one or other to those in authority over them, and these ideas are sometimes put into practice without any credit being given to the person who originated them. In fact, they are quite often utilized without any reference being made to the actual originator, the whole of the credit for the idea being accorded to the one who embezzled it. Such conduct usually causes much disappointment to the one who perhaps gave considerable thought to the idea, and possibly discourages him so much that he gives up making any further attempts to develop any improvements or ideas, considering that it is not worth while. Thus the world is robbed of some valuable improvements just because some men are too little to give credit where credit is due. Dr. E. M. Bluestone of Montefiore Hospital, New York City, writes of this heartburning question from the viewpoint of a hospital doctor, but this mean and contemptible practice is not confined to hospital work. It is found in all kinds of places and is a cause of "the loss of enthusiasm by people, who, like most human beings, like to feel that their efforts and original ideas are appreciated." "An occasional form of dishonesty in hospital practice is the appropriation by one person, usually the superior, of ideas belonging to another person, usually his subordinate, and taking credit for them as if they were his own. Such a person may successfully compete with others of the same kidney for the title of 'meanest man.' "There is no better kind of encouragement for members of the staff, nothing that will help them more to preserve their individuality and usefulness to the institution, than the award of credit, privately or publicly, when credit is due. Paying a good worker his wages in money is not enough. If the institution wants to have personality, it must depend for most of it on its individual workers, in whom originality of mind should be encouraged and recognized appropriately. "Original ideas are entitled to be classed as personal property. When you have occasion to use good ideas that originate with others, it is to your ultimate advantage to give proper credit for them."