so
a philosopher. In his book he says, concerning the people of Christ, "The
most degraded of people are the Christians. The most immoral of the people
of this time are the Christians. Jesus of Nazareth has led them astray. O
people! If you wish to know who Jesus is and what Christian means, go and
ask his relatives. Go and ask the Jews who know him. See what a bad person
he is, how degraded he is." There were many similar accounts. But remember
that these statements did not affect the cause of Christianity. On the
contrary, Christianity advanced daily in power and potency.

Day by day the majesty of Christ grew in splendor and effulgence.
Therefore, my purpose is to warn and strengthen you against accusations,
criticisms, revilings and derision in newspaper articles or other
publications. Be not disturbed by them. They are the very confirmation of
the Cause, the very source of upbuilding to the Movement. May God confirm
the day when a score of ministers of the churches may arise and with bared
heads cry at the top of their voices that the Baha'is are misguided. I
would like to see that day, for that is the time when the Cause of God
will spread. Baha'u'llah has pronounced such as these the couriers of the
Cause. They will proclaim from pulpits that the Baha'is are fools, that
they are a wicked and unrighteous people, but be ye steadfast and
unwavering in the Cause of God. They will spread the message of
Baha'u'llah.

His Honor Mirza Abu'l-Fadl has written a treatise answering the criticisms
of a London preacher. Each one of you should have a copy.(1) Read,
memorize and reflect upon it. Then, when accusations and criticisms are
advanced by those unfavorable to the Cause, you will be well armed.

TALKS 'ABDU'L-BAHA DELIVERED IN NEW YORK

15 November 1912
Talk at Home of Miss Juliet Thompson
48 West Tenth Street, New York

Notes by Hooper Harris

I have spoken in the various Christian churches and in the synagogues, and
in no assemblage has there been a dissenting voice. All have listened, and
all have conceded that the teachings of Baha'u'llah are superlative in
character, acknowledging that they constitute the very essence or spirit
of this new age and that there is no better pathway to the attainment of
its ideals. Not a single voice has been raised in objection. At most there
have been some who have refused to acknowledge the mission of Baha'u'llah,
although even these have admitted that He was