Innovations

by Moses E. Lard
via Lard's Quarterly, April 1865

The spirit of innovation is a peculiar spirit. While coming in, it is the meekest and gentlest of spirits; only it is marvelously firm and persistent. But when going out, no term but fiendish will describe it. It comes in humming the sweetest notes of Zion; it goes out amid the ruin it works, howling like an exorcised demon. At first, it is as supple as a willow twig; you can bend it, mold it, or shape it to anything; only it will have its way. But once it has fully gotten its way, mark how it keeps its footing. It calls for reason, for argument, for Scripture; but no more has it an ear for reason, argument, or Scripture than has the image of Baal. Argue with the spirit of innovation, indeed! I would as sqpn be caught cracking syllogisms over the head of the man of sin. Never. Rebuke it in the name of the Lord; if it go not out—expel it. This only will cure it...

He is a poor observer of men and things who does not see slowly growing up among us a class of men who can no longer be satisfied with the ancient gospel and the ancient order of things. These men must have changes; and silently they are preparing the mind of the brotherhood to receive changes. Be not deceived, brethren, the Devil is not sleeping. If you refuse to see the danger until ruin is upon you, it will be too late. The wise seaman catches the first whiff of the distant storm and adjusts his ship at once. Let us profit by his example.