Testimonies for the Church Volume 1 - A New You Ministry

Chap. 89 - Surmisings About Battle CreekIn 1865 I saw that some have felt at liberty, through envious feelings, to speaklightly of the church at Battle Creek. Some look suspiciously on all that is going onthere and seem to exult if they can get hold of anything to take advantage of to thediscredit of Battle Creek. God is displeased with such a spirit and course of action.From what source do our churches abroad obtain their light and knowledge of thetruth? It has been from the means which God has ordained, which center at BattleCreek. Who have the burdens of the cause? It is those who are zealously laboring atBattle Creek. Burdens and heavy trials necessarily come upon those who stand in theforefront of the hottest battle, and perplexities and wearing thought are attendant uponall who engage in making highly important decisions in connection with the work ofGod. Our brethren abroad, who are relieved from all this, should feel thankful andpraise God that they are thus favored and should be the last to be jealous, envious, andfaultfinding, occupying a position, “Report, and we will report it.”The church at Battle Creek have borne the burdens of the Conferences, which havebeen a severe tax upon nearly all. In consequence of the extra labor many have broughtupon themselves debility which has lasted for many months. They have borne theburden cheerfully, but have felt saddened and disheartened by the heartless indifferenceof some and the cruel jealousy of others after they returned to the several churcheswhence they came. Remarks are thoughtlessly made—by some designedly, by otherscarelessly—concerning the burden bearers there and concerning those who stand at thehead of the work. God has marked all these speeches and the jealousy and envy whichprompted them; a faithful record526