They are to be
compared with the divine will. Many questions may be asked which I
cannot answer, and many difficulties encompass this subject of
slave-holding which I cannot solve. I abide by the example and teachings
of inspired men, and am safe in following them, even if I cannot
explain everything connected with their principles and conduct to the
satisfaction of others. I only know that if our masters and servants
would take the Apostle Paul's Epistle to Philemon as the rule of their
spirit and life, there would be no such thing as oppression, nor
fugitive servants. Now, as to revolutionizing society to eradicate
slavery, I would no more attempt it than I would try to dig down Cadmus
to dislodge yonder snow and ice upon his top. The sun will in due time
melt them and pour them into the Lycus and the Moeander. So the Gospel,
when it has free course, will dissolve every chain, break every yoke,
and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.'
* * * * *
"Philemon was now the first to rise.
"'I am the master to whom Paul the Apostle sends back my fugitive
servant. This man, Onesimus, is my brother in Christ; in heaven, it may
be, I shall see him far above me as a faithful servant of our common
Lord.
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