Phineas F. Bresee - A Prince In Israel - Media Sabda Org

We have the uttermost confidence in our brethren and sisters -- ministers and laymen of the
Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene -- with whom we have solemnly covenanted before God, to be
true to Him, to each other, and to His cause as represented by this work. We have every reason to
believe that our people, generally scattered over the lands, are with one heart and mind
enthusiastically loyal to their vows, and rejoice with unutterable thanksgiving that God has raised
up unto them, and allows them to be a part of, a veritable Church of Jesus Christ, which He so
delights to honor with His presence and so crown with the salvation of men. Each has the right to
expect of every one of us, fullest loyalty to the work which we have unitedly undertaken and to Him
who is Head over all, blessed for ever.
Fortunately, we are not here to settle matters of doctrine. On the great fundamentals we are all
agreed. Pertaining to things not essential to salvation, we have liberty. To attempt to emphasize that
which is not essential to salvation, and thus divide forces would be a crime. An unwillingness for
others to enjoy the liberty that we enjoy in reference to doctrines not vital to salvation, is bigotry,
from which the spirit of holiness withdraws itself.
We are not here to quiet disaffections or allay strifes, as we have never been in greater peace, or
in better temper of loyalty throughout our borders. It would be sad indeed, should any word or act
of any of us magnify any slight condition or affair which might occur, into dissatisfaction. A
dissatisfied soul is already injured, and there is no telling how vital to that soul, and possibly to
others, it may become. A general work of God may not be largely injured by individual
dissatisfaction, but to the individual it may be fatal. We are here for continued answers to the prayer
of our Lord, that we may all be one, and to know the satisfaction of those who have awakened in His
likeness. We rejoice that there largely prevails among us that love which melts not only into accord,
but into oneness.
The question before us is greater efficiency, the girding for vaster results in the great work to
which we are called, especially to find a way for us as a people to more effectively help fill the earth
with the spirit of holiness.
We rejoice that there are others to share the work with us, and we claim blood-relationship with
every holy person in the universe and would strengthen the hands of all. But we are especially
concerned to do our part of the work, and to acquit ourselves worthily in the mighty struggle. More
and more we must realize that it is not of man, but of God. Closeness to the Almighty leader is our
hope of victory. Our brethren and sisters, let us reverently say: "No hindrance shall be in, or through
me, and, God helping, all possible help shall be given by me."
We have written the adorable Name on our banner, and lifted it to the gaze of men. Some are
looking hopefully toward us, let us not disappoint them. Let us not waver. We are sure that our dear
Redeemer is looking. Let us be true. Forward: -- calmly, thoughtfully, prayerfully, and with eyes
steadily fixed upon the Master for direction and strength. Let us so do that the Church which we love
may approve, and we at last may hear the Lord's own, "Well done."