In January 1912, the brothers Johan Oscar and Aksel Smith began publishing Hidden Treasures. This year, the paper celebrates its 100-year anniversary.
After his conversion in 1898, Johan Oscar Smith became a prolific writer. He often submitted articles to local Christian periodicals; however, more and more often his articles were returned because of his sharp and radical teaching about Christ manifest in the flesh, the body of Christ, and obedience to the commandments of Christ. That prompted the two brothers to start thinking about publishing their own paper.
100 years as a snowplow in God’s ministry
In 1909, Johan wrote in a letter to his brother: You mentioned the publication. It should be born in rest and come forth from need, for it is God who supplies all our need in Jesus Christ. Everything in the paper must lead directly to godliness. We have enough “story-telling” papers. We need a “working” paper, full of Spirit and life.
Later, in 1911, right before the first issue was about to be published, he wrote again about the publication: Skulte Skatter will work like a snowplow. As it is now, people cannot see the way – everything is white, completely covered with snow. Indeed, Satan rules in the form of an angel of light.
The first issue opened with the following words from the Smith brothers:
Driven by an inner longing and conviction, we are publishing this first issue of “Hidden Treasures.” We pray to the Lord of Glory that this publication will be of service for the believers to shine light on the ways that lead to a deeper life of fellowship with our Lord Jesus Christ. The mission of this paper is to guide into the truth which leads to faith and godliness. Titus 1:1
For 100 years, this “snowplow” has been published in increasingly more countries and languages. It is one of the primary tools by which the gospel that Smith preached has spread to the more than 65 countries, where Brunstad Christian church has assemblies. More and more people have become gripped by Smith’s message, full of a love for the truth and based upon God’s Word. This paper has had the effect of leading many people to the life that Smith lived.
“It is in itself a miracle from God, and unique in our time that a paper like this has been issued monthly for 100 years, free from popular travelogues and with no revenue from advertising!” write the current editors, Kåre J. Smith and Sigurd Johan Bratlie, in this year’s anniversary issue.
“The Bride”
Smith’s first article in Hidden Treasures, in January 1912, was titled, “The Bride.” In that article he explains who Jesus’ dearly purchased bride is, and the relationship between the bride (the church) and the bridegroom (Christ).
You can read the 1912 article "The Bride" by Johan Oscar Smith here.
Order Hidden Treasures
The publication, issued monthly, is published by Stiftelsen Skjulte Skatters forlag (Hidden Treasures Publications). If you would like to order the paper, or a three-month free trial subscription, you can do that at the home page of the publishing company.