The central Presbyterian. [volume] (Richmond, Va.) 1856-1908, 1878-01-02
From the Missionary.
Campinas, Brazil.
LETTER FROM REV. E. LANE.

The progress Of the gospel in the world is de-
scribed by the Saviour under the figure of leaven
which woman took, and hid in three measures
of meal till the whole was lesvened," or as seed
sown, which brings forth first the blade, then the
ear, after that the full corn in the ear and it is
added, the kingdom of God cometh not with OBJ.
servation" An attentive study of these words will
throw food Of light on the Christians pathway,
and give steadiness to his efforts to obey the great
command of the Lord, I" Go preach the gospel to
every creature" 1t is evident that the leavening
of mankind with the truth of God is silent but a
groaoing york. and one that does not rest on mere
excitement or spasmodic action for its continuance
or its success. The Alpha and the Omega for the
Church as we'll as the individual Christians is
prompt and unquestioning obedience to the pre-
cepts of the Lord and answering faith in His
promises. The ralying cry of the Apostolic Church,
while carrying the standard OF the Cross through
seas Of fire and blood was 'be faithful unto death,
and will give thee crown of life" We greatly
deceive ourselves in these latter days, if we think
the watch word has been altered, or that the war
fare with Satan's kingdom has become any easier
Bacon has beautifully sad prosperity is the bless
ing of the Old Testament adversely is the blessing
of the New, which carrieth the greater benediction
and the clearer revelation of Gods favor. F.. :.
And the pencil of the Holy Ghost hath labored
more in describing the Affections of Job than the
felicities of Solomon" Truly we have not made
an honest start in the service of our Master until
we have learned to suffer for Him and lay at His
feet our fortunes, our bodies, and our lives.
The preaching for the past few weeks has been
confined to the towns lying nearest Csmpinas.-
Jundiah, which is the abode of the Nicodemuses,
has been visited twice. The attendance on worship
in the daytime was small at night very good Mr..
Boyle visited Santa Barbara, and had the average
attendance at that point The little church at
Mogy Morim moves slowly, but with some signs of
hsrvest-tine. At the last communion season in
the Penha church, three children were baptized
and one adult received on profession of faith
Eight persons have united with this church during
the present year. The Campnas church has been
suffering from spiritual drouth for long time.
There are some Indications however, that her win.
ter is drawing to close. The attendance on the
Sabbath School and on public worship continues to
be very encouraging. Some of the students in col
lege manifest growing interest in their personal
salvation. The movement, too, to build house
of worship has taken deep hold on the people,
and they are making very compendable progress
in it. The colporteurs returned the other day from
long and not very successful journey into fanat-
ical and ignorant region of this province.
Thus the readers of the Missionary will see that
the work OF sowing the seed and leavening the
mass keeps on its chequered course. Some rays OF
light from time to time, struggling through the
clouds of error and sin, foretastes of the perfect
day which comes to each when the conflict is over
and the armor laid down, and fully to all, when
=" all enemies are put under His feet"