End Time Events

Vance Ferrell

www.CreationismOnline.com

The Counterfeit Revival And The Threefold Union

The National Sunday Law

The False Latter Rain

The Shaking And Sifting

The Seal And The Mark

Perfection Of Character

The Judgment Of The Living

The Marriage In The Most Holy Place

The Latter Rain

The Loud Cry

The Little Time Of Trouble

The Close Of Probation

The Great Time Of Trouble

The Second Advent

The Ascension And Millennium

The Third Advent

The Eternity Beyond

The Counterfeit Revival And The Threefold Union

It is crucial that you and I obtain a clear understanding of last-day events. The God of heaven wanted us to have this information, so He wrote it out in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy.

We urgently need to dig out that information and bring it together. This present series of studies does just that. It is based on the most complete compilation of final event statements in the Spirit of Prophecy that has ever been compiled.

This series will provide you with an overview of these events, so you can easily learn them. But more: you can share with your friends and loved ones, so they can learn more about what is soon to come in our world as a shock.

The decisions we are today making, along with the words and actions accompanying them, will greatly affect what we will do when the coming crisis suddenly breaks upon us all. It is urgent that we now study and, by faith in Christ, carefully obey what is written in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. It is my concern that these video studies-and the written studies they are based on-will help you and your loved ones be better prepared for what is so soon to come on the earth.

Let us now begin. First, let us consider the—

FIVE LANDMARK EVENTS - between us and eternity:

It is easiest to learn information, when you have other information to tie it to. All of the final events are connected to one or the other of five key events. Here are these events:

1 - The U.S. national Sunday law.

2 - The general close of probation.

3 - The Voice of God.

4 - The second coming of Christ.

5 - The third coming of Christ.

The first grouping of final events begins with events, which throw us into the national Sunday law, and several events, which follow. That group of events will end with the general close of probation. All of these events, which occur before the general close of probation, are especially important for us-and for the entire world.

The crisis itself will be keyed to the U.S. enactment of a strict national Sunday law. That event will catapult us into the future wind-up of human affairs. All other events around it will find their reference point in that moment in time.

The national Sunday law will very quickly set into operation a surprising number of other important occurrences. Therefore, much of the present section of this study will consist of connecting this law to other: related events before and after it, and those events to still others.

Here is-

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF HOW IT WILL BEGIN

Decades of increasing violation of the ten commandments by individuals, families, businesses, and governments has produced immorality, fiscal irresponsibility, confusion, crime, terror and bloodshed. The mounting problems will lead the nation-and then the entire world-to the adoption of draconian governmental Sunday laws.

When the amount of decadence reaches a certain point, Satan will be permitted to work more openly. Desperate for power, churchmen will welcome a strange excitement that appears to be working in the churches. Evil spirits will prompt those leaders with the idea that the only solution is governmentally-mandated Sunday keeping. On this issue of Sunday legislation, apostate Protestant churches and the Vatican will find themselves in closer harmony than ever before.

It will be the sense of spiritualist power undergirding it, that will impel Catholicism and the fallen Protestant churches to lay aside their differences and form a close working union to achieve commonly-held objectives. Their willingness to move into line on the Sunday issue will bring a response of approving spiritualist manifestations. Even though based on shallow appearances and emotional highs, the powerful excitement will be accepted as proof that Sunday keeping is the will of God for the nations. The awareness that hidden power is being made available as they work toward Sunday legislation, will prompt them to move forward in forming a solid union of denominations, representing millions of members, determined to force the U.S. Congress to enact a binding national Sunday law.

A coalition of Protestant churches will lead out in pressuring politicians, also desperate for solutions,-to enact a national Sunday law.

That legislation will initially be enacted as a political favor; that is, the secular politicians will enact it to the increasingly-powerful religious right, thinking that all they are doing is fulfilling just another political favor. Little do they realize that they have opened the door to something, which when it enters, they cannot control.

But enactment of that law will suddenly, dramatically change everything! It will open the floodgates of Satanic manifestations upon, not only the United States, but the entire world.

And we will suddenly be thrown into the final crisis. About four dozen events will rapidly follow, which will carry us down to the second coming of Christ.

An important question is this: What will be the first event in the final events which will bring on the second coming of Christ?

What will be the special event, which will throw us into the national Sunday law?

It is true that many other predicted events both precede and accompany the events during the final crisis. These include wars and rumors of wars, capital and racial conflicts, natural disasters, and crises in the cities.

But there are certain events, which we term the “closing events.” What is the very first of these? Let us now look at

THE EXCITEMENT

That first event will be a very unusual excitement in the Sunday-keeping churches. Read this: Early Writings, page 261:

“I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God Is with them. He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God is still working for the churches.”-Early Writings, 261:1.

As we will discuss later, the latter rain comes at the beginning of the loud cry; and just after the national Sunday law. But the counterfeit revival-Satan’s counterfeit of the latter rain-will precede the true latter rain upon God’s people. It will appear to be God’s blessing upon the disobedient churches. Satan will use it to extend his influence over the Christian world.

This counterfeit revival will be the first event; the event which catapults our nation into the national Sunday law.

Here is the order of four special events:

Here is a second important statement: Great Controversy, 464:

“Before the final visitation of God’s judgments upon the earth, there will be, among the people of the Lord, such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children. Many, both of ministers and people, will gladly accept those great truths which God has caused to be proclaimed at this time, to prepare a people for the Lord’s second coming. The enemy of souls desires to hinder this work; and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it, by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches which he can bring under his deceptive power, he will make it appear that God’s special blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great religious interest. Multitudes will exult that God is working marvelously for them, when the work is that of another spirit. Under a religious guise, Satan will seek to extend his influence over the Christian world. -Great Controversy, 464:2

But, now –

WHY IS IT EXCITING?

What did we learn from the two statements we have already read? First - It is an excitement.

Second - It occurs among the “fallen churches,” among the “nominal Adventists,” “in those religious bodies which have rejected the truth,” and “in those churches which he [Satan] can bring under his deceptive power.”

What causes the excitement?

1 -It is a counterfeit outpouring of a spirit which occurs before the true latter rain.

2 - It will appear that God’s special blessing is being given.

3 - It is thought by the people that a great, new religious interest has occurred.

4 - They think God is working marvelously for them.

Of course, all that reminds us of the celebration churches-showing us that they are very significant, and very dangerous. We should have nothing to do with them. Something like them-will suddenly erupt into a stupendous excitement which will win so much favor from the general public-that the U.S. Congress will yield to the demand of Protestant churches for a national Sunday law.

Why will the churches welcome this excitement?

1 - There will be a supernatural power, which will give these churches greater influence over the secular multitudes.

2 - There will be great emotional excitement and healings.

3 - But, especially important to them, -there will also be church growth -large increases in attendance and membership. Mark it well: the excitement will appear to cause the church growth, and it will be called the “great power of God.”

Beware! Beware! Any denomination or local church which tries to use excitement to increase membership is on dangerous ground.

And, conversely, any religious organization which is willing to do whatever it takes including sacrificing church standards and beliefs -to gain more members -is on dangerous ground!

Any church doing such a thing will erelong be overcome by Satan, unless it repents and returns to right practices. It will become “one of those churches which he [Satan} can bring under his deceptive power.”

Here is a companion prediction regarding what will happen at the end of time, before probation closes: We are told there will be shouting, drums, music, and dancing.

“The things you have described as taking place in Indiana, the Lord has shown me would take place Just before the close of probation. Every uncouth thing will be demonstrated. There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The senses of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions.

“A bedlam of noise shocks the senses and perverts that which if conducted aright might be a blessing. The powers of satanic agencies blend with the din and noise to have a carnival, and this is termed the Holy Spirit’s working. . Those things which have been in the past will be in the future. Satan will make music a snare by the way in which it is conducted.” -2 Selected Messages, 36:23, 38:1.

So there are at least four factors that are part of the excitement:

1 - Satanic power-through a counterfeit outpouring.

2 - Great emotional excitement and-as we will learn later-healings.

3 - Great apparent religious interest, and large increases in church membership.

4 - Drums and wild music-called the “Holy Spirit’s working.” But there is a fifth factor:

5 - That excitement will bring the churches together!

SATANIC EXCITEMENT PREPARES CHURCHES FOR THE UNION

Now for the question: How can we know that this excitement is the key, first event which will bring on all the other final events?

We can know for two reasons:

First - We can know that there will be excitement -plenty of it -in the churches, from the union of churches onward till the close of probation and onward to the sounding of the Voice of God. The statements are clear on this. The beginning of that excitement comes just before the national Sunday law. THIS is the beginning of that excitement! Second -It is this excitement, which brings on the union of churches!

There is yet something else that this excitement accomplishes; indeed, something that helps make the excitement! This excitement is the beginning, in a very real way, of the reaching across the gulf by the forces of spiritualism, Protestantism, and Catholicism to clasp their hands together!

The loud cry, which will begin shortly afterward, will bring warning to all the world that it must obey God’s holy ten-commandment law-and not hallow the Sunday, as commanded by the national Sunday law. But, a little before the loud cry, Satan will raise an excitement in the fallen churches which will unify them in their attainment of certain objectives.

Let us now turn our attention to -

THE THREE FOLD UNION

To begin with, just what is the threefold union?

It will be a religious confederation of three major groups: the Sunday keeping Protestant churches, the Roman Catholic church, and the varied elements and manifestations of Spiritualism (also called “Spiritualism”). These three forces will unite in their common objective of enacting legislation enforcing one erroneous religious teaching. Their corrupt confederation will first take shape in the United States. Having achieved success in that nation, they will then successfully press for similar governmental decrees in other nations. As soon as that law is enacted in a given nation, its government will have formed an image of-an image to-the beast.

Men have tried for over a century to bring the churches together. But the event which will finally do it-will be an astounding power from beneath. It will generate an energized excitement in the churches.

At last, it will appear that the world is coming into the churches!

Remember this: When men adopt wrong principles in order to obtain power and authority, they invite the control of demons.

Then the demons are permitted to work as they wish. In this case, they will bring great excitement, and men will interpret it as deeper spirituality and the favor of God.

Then the demons will whisper two things which must be done to please God:

First - Unite the churches.

Second - Unify them in certain doctrines. It will be the unity on doctrine which will “unite the churches.”

So then, how will the churches unite on those doctrines? They will unite on them- by the enactment of national Sunday laws.

Which churches will be united? The Sunday keeping churches of Christendom: the Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox churches. Now, let us consider

THE PROTESTANT-CATHOLIC UNION OF CHURCHES

We say it will be a “threefold union.” Yes, it will be a threefold union, but, to human eyes, it will only appear to be a twofold union. Although Spiritualistic forces will empower what is done, yet it will be human agencies Protestant and Catholic -which will do it. True to his usual cunning, Satan will display his great power, without revealing its source. The crisis will come when Protestants and Catholics unite to coerce governments into enacting harsh Sunday laws. Here is how closely this confederation will tie them together:

First, it will be a fellowship.

“Protestantism shall give the hand of fellowship to the Roman power. Then there will be a law against the Sabbath of God’s creation, and then it is that God will do His ‘strange work’ in the earth.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 910/2:O-1.

Second, it will be a confederacy.

“The professed Protestant world will form a confederacy with the man of sin, and the church and the world will be in corrupt harmony.” -7 Bible Commentary, 975/2:2.

Third, in using the state to achieve their objectives, papists and Protestants will unite.

“The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and In this work papists and Protestants unite.” - Great Controversy, 607:1.

TWO UNITING AND EMPOWERING DOCTRINES

What will be those doctrines which the churches will unite on? It is more than one; what are they?

It is important we understand this: The basis on which they unite is ALSO the basis of their power. It is two doctrinal beliefs.

“When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points of doctrine as are held by them In common, shall influence the state to enforce their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then Protestant America will have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result.” -Great Controversy, 445:1.

“The wide diversity of belief in the Protestant churches is regarded by many as decisive proof that no effort to secure a forced uniformity can ever be made. But there has been for years, in churches of the Protestant faith, a strong and growing sentiment in favor of a union based upon common points of doctrine. To secure such a union, the discussion of subjects upon which all were not agreed-however important they might be from a Bible standpoint-must necessarily be waived.” -Great. Controversy, 444:2.

Do not misunderstand: These churches will suddenly be in command of power that they have never had before! Power with the multitudes and, they will soon learn, power with Congress.

It will be power from Satan because of their union on those two special errors.

“Through the two great errors, the Immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the foundation of Spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome.” -Great Controversy, 588:1.

The first doctrine: The first unifying error is the belief that men continue to live in spirit form after they die. This error unites the churches to Satan-so he can powerfully work his deceptions and wonders among them so he can powerfully control their minds.

The second doctrine: The second unifying error is the belief that Sunday, the first day of the week, is sacred. This error unites the churches with one another!

The first error unites the churches with Satan; the second unites them with one another. United with Satan, they become energized by him -and he tells them to demand obedience from all men in the nation to unify them in Sunday keeping.

THIS UNION WILL GREATLY AFFECT PROTESTANTISM

We are told in Great Controversy that both those doctrines originated with Rome. By championing these two dogmas of Rome, Satan will lead Protestantism into subservience to Rome.

In coercing the government to pass this law, Protestantism will essentially have united with the papacy.

“When our nation [the United States] shall so abjure the principles of its government as to enact a Sunday law, Protestantism will In this act Join hands with popery; it will be nothing else than giving life to the tyranny which has long been eagerly watching its opportunity to spring again into active despotism.” -5 Testimonies, 712:O.

But it is Protestantism, which will change, not Catholicism.

“How the Roman church can clear herself from the charge of idolatry we cannot see. And this is the religion which Protestants are beginning to look upon with so much favor, and which will eventually be united with Protestantism. This union will not, however, be effected by a change in Catholicism, for Rome never changes. She claims infallibility. It is Protestantism that will change. The adoption of liberal ideas on its part will bring it where it can clasp the hand of Catholicism.”-Review, June 1, 1886.

By entering this union, Protestantism will have emptied itself of God’s power-and given the control into the hands of Satan.

“What is it that gives its kingdom to this power? Protestantism, a power which, while professing to have the temper and spirit of a Iamb and to be allied to Heaven, speaks with the voice of a dragon. It is moved by a power from beneath.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 983/2:1.

In voiding God’s law, Protestantism will have joined Catholicism-and the world.

“When the law of God is made void; when the Christian world is joined to the Catholic and the worldly, in making of none effect the commandments of God, then God’s chosen people arise to defend the law of Jehovah.” -Evangelism, 226:5227:O.

This union will not only bring the world and the churches together, -it will unite them under one head: the pope of Rome.

“As we approach the last crisis it is of vital moment that harmony and unity exist among the Lord’s instrumentalities. The world is filled with storm and war and variance. Yet under one head -the papal power -the people will unite to oppose God in the person of His witnesses. This union is cemented by the great apostate.” -7 Testimonies, 182:2.

“Protestants are opening the door for the papacy to regain in Protestant America the supremacy which she has lost In the Old World.” -Great Controversy, 573:1.

“There are many, even of those engaged in this movement for Sunday enforcement, who are blinded to the results which will follow this action. They do not see that they are striking directly against religious liberty. There are many who have never understood the claims of the Bible Sabbath and the false foundation upon which the Sunday institution rests.” - 5 Testimonies, 711:4.

It is Catholic principles, which are being urged, and it is subservience to Rome, which results. Because Protestants will lead out in urging this servile legislation, Protestantism will thereby bring itself under Roman dominion.

“They are working in blindness. They do not see that if a Protestant government sacrifices the principles that have made them a free, independent nation, and through legislation brings into the Constitution, principles that will propagate papal falsehood and papal delusion, they are plunging into the Roman horrors of the Dark Ages.” -Review Extra, December 11, 1888.

“There is a satanic force propelling the Sunday movement, but it is concealed. Even the men who are engaged in the work, are themselves blinded to the results which will follow their movement.” -Review, January 1, 1889.

THE THREEFOLD UNION WILL COERCE THE GOVERNMENT

This threefold union will work toward one primary objective, and in reaching that objective it will succeed.

The U.S. Government will be pressured into enacting the national Sunday law. Coercion will be applied to force the people to accept a papal teaching.

It will be the combined impact of the threefold union, which will have brought this about.

Passage of that law will lead to very evil results. In reaching across the gulf, the U.S. government will have taken an inextricable step to destroy liberty of conscience. (Later, we will learn that it will be the unleashing of spiritualist forces by this enacted law, which will render the situation so irreversible.)

Consider now the irreversible step.

“The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their hands across the gulf to grasp the hand of Spiritualism; they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands with the Roman power; and under the influence of this threefold union, this country will follow in the steps of Rome in trampling on the rights of conscience.” Great Controversy, 588:1.

“When Protestant churches shall unite with the secular power to sustain a false religion, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution, then will the papal Sabbath be enforced by the combined authority of church and state. There will be a national apostasy, which will end only in national ruin.”-Evangelism, 235:1.

USA UNDER SUBSERVIENCE TO PAPAL PRINCIPLES

By enacting this law, all America will be affected. The nation will have accepted the principles of Romanism.

“In the time of testing and trial the shield of Omnipotence will be spread over those whom God has made the depositories of His law. When legislators shall abjure the [religious liberty] principles of Protestantism, so as to give countenance and the right hand of fellowship to Romanism, then God will interpose in a special manner in behalf of His own honor and the salvation of His people.” - 5 Testimonies, 525:1.

Indeed, when that happens -the religion of the papacy will be accepted by the rulers of our nation!

“Laws enforcing the observance of Sunday as the Sabbath will bring about a national apostasy from the principles of republicanism upon which the government has been founded. The religion of the papacy will be accepted by the rulers, and the law of God will be made void.”-7 Manuscript Release, 192:1 (1906).

“It is at the time of the national apostasy when, acting on the policy of Satan, the rulers of the land will rank themselves on the side of the man of sin. It is then the measure of guilt is full. The national apostasy is the signal for national ruin.”-2 Selected Messages, 979:O.

It will place Catholic principles under the care and protection of the state.

“Roman Catholic principles will be taken under the care and protection of the state. This national apostasy will speedily be followed by national ruin.” -Review, June 15, 1897.

The result will be a common objective -which will be almost overmastering in its power over the minds of the people.

“These have one mind.’ There will be a universal bond of union, one great harmony, a confederacy of Satan’s forces. ‘And shall give their power and strength unto the beast.’ Thus is manifested the same arbitrary, oppressive power against religious liberty, freedom to worship God according to the dictates of conscience, as was manifested by the papacy, when in the past it persecuted those who dared to refuse to conform with the religious rites and ceremonies of Romanism.” - Maranatha, 187:9.

THE USA UNDER SATAN’S POWER

Protestantism will be the tool of the Vatican to do its work. But the devil will be at the bottom of it all. Satan will be leading in this union, guiding it towards his objectives.

“There is one pointed out in prophecy as the man of sin. He is the representative of Satan. Here is Satan’s right-hand man ready to carry on the work that Satan commenced in heaven, that of trying to amend the law of God. And the Christian world has sanctioned his efforts by adopting this child of the Papacy -the Sunday institution.” Quoted in Robert W. Olsen’s Crisis Ahead, page 12.

“Not a move has been made in exalting the idol Sabbath, in bringing around Sunday observance through legislation, but Satan has been behind It, and has been the chief worker.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 910.

“When the legislature frames laws which exalt the first day of the week, and put it in the place of the seventh day, the device of Satan will be perfected, “-7 Bible Commentary, 976.

“This false Sabbath is to be enforced by an oppressive law. Satan and his angels are wide awake and intensely active, working with energy and perseverance through human instrumentalities to bring about his purpose of obliteration from the minds of men the knowledge of God.” -7 Bible Commentary, 985.

IT WILL BRING PERSECUTION TO GOD’S PEOPLE

As a result of this union, the national Sunday law will be enacted, and all the wrath of the infernal one and his agents will be directed against those who obey the commandments of God.

The people of the Bible will be hated, and the world will want to blot them from the earth.

We have already mentioned several factors resulting in the passage of the national Sunday law. But there is another reason it will be enacted: Satan will incite the people to hate Sabbath keepers:

HATRED OF SABBATH KEEPERS

We are specifically told that it will be hatred of Sabbath keepers which will urge the people on to enact that national Sunday law! The same pattern will be seen as occurred in the days of Queen Easter, when Morde-cai refused to show reverence to a man.

This hatred will lead the churches to coerce the government to enact the law. Initially, legislators will agree to do so only for political reasons. But that action, once done, will catapult God’s people into the final great conflict.

Here is a longer quotation, yet it is important.

“The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past is still seeking to rid the earth of those who fear God and obey His law. Satan will excite indignation against the humble minority who con-scientiously refuse to accept popular customs and traditions, Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them, With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith, By false representations and angry appeals they will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a ‘Thus said the Scriptures’ to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law. Those who fear God cannot accept an institution that violates a precept of the Decalogue. On this battlefield comes the last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error, And we are not left In doubt as to the Issue. Now, as in the days of Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people,”-5 Testimonies, 450:2-451:O.

In passing this law, the nation will become a tool of Satan. In passing this law, it will bring Protestant and Catholic churches under the delusive control of Satan, so he can use them to destroy commandment-keepers.

“This lamb-like power unites with the dragon in making war upon those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. And Satan unites with Protestants and Papists, acting in consort with them as the god of this world, dictating to men as if they were the subjects of his kingdom, to be handled and governed and controlled as he pleases. If men will not agree to trample under foot the commandments of God, the spirit of the dragon is revealed. They are imprisoned, brought before the councils, and fined. Thus Satan usurps the prerogatives of Jehovah. The man of sin sits in the seat of God, proclaiming himself to be God, and acting above God.” -Maranatha, 191:1.

Throughout this entire final conflict, the Sabbath will be the basic issue. In opposition to it, all the wicked world will be united against God’s people.

“In the warfare to be waged in the last days there will be united in opposition to God’s people, all the corrupt powers that have apostatized from allegiance to the law of Jehovah. In this warfare the Sabbath of the fourth commandment will be the great point at Issue; for in the Sabbath commandment the great Lawgiver identifies Himself as the Creator of the heavens and the earth.” -Maranatha, 187:4.

INTENSE PERSECUTION WILL RESULT

Are you ready for what is soon to come upon the earth? Are you preparing your heart and life by the study of God’s Word, and obedience to it? Are you standing in defense of God’s Word and God’s law? Are you warning others to prepare for what is ahead?

Here, briefly, is information about what is coming; information you need to know: But, first, let us read two statements. They give a warning and a promise.

“There is a marked contrast between those who bear the seal of God and those who worship the beast and his image. The Lord’s faithful servants will receive the bitterest persecution from false teachers. who will not hear the word of God, and who prepare stumbling blocks to put in the way of those who would hear.

“But God’s people are not to fear. Satan cannot go beyond his limit. The Lord will be the defense of His people. He regards the injury done to His servants for the truth’s sake as done to Himself. When the last de-cision has been made, when all have taken sides, either for Christ and the commandments or for the great apostate. God will arise In His power, and the mouths of those who have blasphemed against Him will be forever stopped. Every opposing power will receive its punishment.” - Maranatha, 191:2.

“God’s Sabbath will be trampled under foot, and a false Sabbath will be exalted. In a Sunday law there is possibility for great suffering to those who observe the seventh day. The working out of Satan’s plans will bring persecution to the people of God. But the faithful servants of God need not fear the outcome of the conflict.” - 2 Selected Messages, 975:1.

Empowered by Satan, Sunday keepers will be determined to destroy the commandment-keeping people of God.

“The Protestant world today see in the little company keeping the Sabbath a Mordecai in the gate. His character and conduct, expressing reverence for the law of God, are a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling upon His Sabbath; the unwelcome Intruder must by some means be put out of the way.”-5 Testimonies, 450:1.

“God’s people will feel the hand of persecution because “they keep holy the seventh day.”-9 Testimonies, 229:9.

“Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled.”-Great Controversy, 48:9.

My friend, plead with God that you may stand true to Him in the coming crisis. Urge your friends to get ready also! Show this video to fellow church members. Do what you can to arouse and warn others.

“Before the warfare shall be ended and the victory won. Persecution will again be kindled against those who are true to God; their motives will be impugned, their best efforts misinterpreted. Their names cast out as evil. . God would have His people prepared for the soon-coming crisis. Prepared or unprepared. we must all meet it.” Life of Paul, 251-252.

“There will come a time when, because of our advocacy of Bible truth, we shall be treated as traitors.” -6 Testimonies, 994:2.

“Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith.”-5 Testimonies, 450:2.

We have had an opportunity to consider the first two final events. The first was the counterfeit revival. We will learn that it will later increase even more in power and extent. We have also observed that that revival will unite and galvanize the Sunday keeping churches to get a national Sunday law enacted.

The next event will be the national Sunday law itself! We have already noted that that will be one of the five landmark events ahead of us, before sin and sinners are no more and eternity begins.

In our next lesson in this series we will see what Inspiration has to say about this subject: The national Sunday law; the importance of this event; who will enact it; what its passage will mean what it will accomplish.

May our heavenly Father help us-each one-to be faithful to the end.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

Then It Will be Time for God to Work.-”When church and state shall be united in restricting religious liberty, when the institution of the man of sin shall be taken up universally in preference to God’s holy sanctified day, when all men respect the man of sin in exalting the heathen day of worship and call it Christian, then it will be time for God to work, for they have made void His law.

When the Great Secession Has Taken Place, Deluded Men Will Rush Into Superstitious Doctrines.

“Then signs of dissolution will be plainly revealed to the God-fearing student of prophecy. The great Secession [will have] taken place -the world and [the] church united to tear down God’s great moral stand-ard and erect a standard instituted by the man of sin. Then earnest, distinguished men, blinded and deluded with false doctrines, because they have taken a deep draught of [the] wine of Babylon, rush into superstitious doctrines, into the great apostasy, bearing the very stamp of that dress. God has plainly pointed out in prophecy [that] they are drunk with the wine of Babylon, and the same spirit moves the whole.”-Undated Manuscript 153, pp. 1-4. (Copenhagen, Denmark, 1886.)

“America Can Become the Place of Greatest Peril Because of Light Neglected.” America, where the greatest light from heaven has been shining upon the people, can become the place of greatest peril and darkness, because the people do not continue to practice the truth and walk in the light.” - Letter 23c, 1894, pp. 2-3. (To L. H. Evans, July 20, 1894). [See also - 3 SM 387.]

Satan Will Excite Apostate Christendom to Crush Liberty of Conscience

”Satan will excite the indignation of apostate Christendom against the humble remnant who conscientiously refuse to accept their customs and traditions. Blinded by the prince of darkness, popular religionists will see only as he sees, and feel as he feels. They will determine as he determines, and oppress as he oppresses. Liberty of conscience, which has cost this nation so great a sacrifice, will no longer be respected. The church and the world will unite, and the world will lend to the church her power to crush out the right of the people to worship God according to His word.” - Manuscript 51, 1899, pp. 6-12. (“The Seal of God,” April 2, 1899). [See also: EV 234-235.]

If Satan Can Induce a Union of the Church and the World, Man-made Commandments Will Supplant the Sabbath.-

“Men do not seem to understand that they are taken in Satan’s snare when they attempt to tamper with the laws of God. Satan has them in just the position he wants them when they manufacture laws to control the world and place those laws where God’s laws should be. The enemy knows that, if the church can be controlled by political enactments, she will lose her garments of light as did Adam and Eve. If he can lead the church to unite with the world and accept worldly enactments, they virtually acknowledge him as their head. The authority of man-made commandments will work to oppose the rule of the government of heaven. Under the leadership of Satan the knowledge of good and evil will work to dispense with the righteous, holy enactments of God concerning the Sabbath, the observance of which is to be a sign between God and His people forever.”-Manuscript 77, 1899, pp. 12-15. (“God’s Law Immutable,” May 14, 1899).

Satan’s Throne Is at the Center of Earthly Power. - “The central power of the earth is a demon. His throne is in the midst of the world, where should have been seen the throne of God. He has been patronized by the church, for the church has been conformed to the world, and is living in transgression of the holy law of God.” -Letter 78, 1900, pp. 3-4. (To “Brother and Sister Haysmer,” January 30, 1900).

The Threefold Union Will Be Satan’s Great Latter-day System of Persecution. ‘Satan will work miracles to deceive those who dwell on the earth. Spiritualism will do its work, by causing the dead to be personated. Those religious bodies that refuse to hear God’s message of warning will be under strong deception, and will unite with the civil power in persecuting the [true] church. The Protestant churches will unite with the papal power in persecuting the commandment-keeping people of God. This union will constitute the great system of persecution that will exercise spiritual tyranny over the consciences of men.” -Manuscript 16, 1899, pages 1-6, 10-11.” The Word for This Time,” February 20, 1900).

God Will Bring Men From Various Churches to Combat the Sunday Law.

“Satan seems to have been permitted to gain many points of advantage. But the Lord will bring men of understanding from the various churches to combat the enforcement of a law, that the first day of the week shall be honored as a day when no business shall be transacted.” - Letter 168, 1909, pp. 2, 5. (“To the Officers of the General Conference,” December 1, 1909).

{See also: Evangelism 33, 71-72, 377, 388; MM 300, 308-10.}

The National Sunday Law

IMPORTANCE OF THIS EVENT

1 - This is a subject that we need to understand.

“The fearful judgments denounced against the worship of the beast and his image, should lead all to a diligent study of the prophecies to learn what the mark of the beast is, and how they are to avoid receiving it.” -Great Controversy, 594:2.

2 - The Sunday law is inevitable.

“Sooner or later Sunday laws will be passed.” -Last Day Events, 128:4.

THE OBJECTIVE

1 - A national act.

“Our land is in jeopardy. The time is drawing on when its legislators shall so abjure the principles of Protestantism as to give countenance to Romish apostasy. The people for whom God has so marvelously wrought, strengthening them to throw off the galling yoke of popery, will by a national act give vigor to the corrupt faith of Rome, and thus arouse the tyranny which only waits for a touch to start again into cruelty and despotism.” -4 Spirit of Prophecy, 410.

2 - A law.

“A more decided effort will be made to exalt the false Sabbath, and to cast contempt upon God Himself by supplanting the day He has blessed and sanctified. This false Sabbath is to be enforced by an oppressive law.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 985.

3 - A decree.

“By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness.” -5 Testimonies, 451.

4 - An amendment to the Constitution.

“We see that efforts are being made to restrict our religious liberties. The Sunday question is now assuming large proportions. An amendment to our Constitution is being urged in Congress, and when it is obtained, oppression must follow.” – Review Extra, December 18, 1888.

5 - A religious amendment to the Constitution.

“If the people can be led to favor a Sunday law, then the clergy intend to exert their united influence to obtain a religious amendment to the Constitution, and compel the nation to keep Sunday.” -Review Extra, December 24, 1889.

IT WILL DESTROY RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

1 - It will bring religious liberty to an end.

“The law of God, through the agency of Satan, is to be made void. In our land of boasted freedom religious liberty will come to an end. The contest will be decided over the Sabbath

question, which will agitate the whole world.” Evangelism, 296:9.

2 - It will revive tyranny.

“Protestants will throw their whole Influence and strength on the side of the Papacy. By a national act enforcing the false Sabbath they will give life and vigor to the corrupt faith of Rome, reviving her tyranny and oppression of conscience.” -Maranatha, 179:2.

3 - Men will be compelled to obey.

“A great crisis awaits the people of God. Very soon our nation will attempt to enforce upon all the observance of the first day of the week as a sacred day. In doing this they will not scruple to compel men against the voice of their own conscience to observe the day the nation declares to be the Sabbath.” -Last Day Events, 144.2.

SABBATH KEEPERS WILL BE OPPOSED AND HATED

1 - The faithful will fight the battle against great national powers.

“Seventh-day Adventists will fight the battle over the seventh-day Sabbath. The authorities in the United States and in other countries will rise up in their pride and power and make laws to restrict religious liberty.” -Last Day Events, 144.3.

2 - They will be hated for their position.

“Soon the Sunday laws will be enforced, and men In positions of trust will be embittered against the little handful of God’s commandment-keeping people.”-4 Manuscript Releases, 278.

THE TIMING OF THE NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW

It is not possible to set a date for the occurrence of this event, nor to determine time spans leading to or away from it. There will be no tracing of definite time after 1844 (7BC 971) for time-setting is not a test after 1844 (Early Writings 75; 2SM 73; 1T 409). See our tract study, Its No Time for Time Excitement [PG-21}, for many quotations on this.

USA INSTITUTES NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW

The Lamblike beast of Revelation 13 represents a persecuting power (Testimonies To Ministers, page 117). It symbolizes Protestant America (Great Controversy, page 445), and the United States of America (Great Controversy, page 440-44’1, 445; Story Of Redemption, page 381-2). This beast will make Sunday observance the test, and, in so doing, will enforce the worship of the papacy (Great Controversy, page 445). The symbol of the lamblike beast “which speaks as a dragon” will not apply to the U.S. until the national Sunday law is enacted.

1 - U.S. enactment of the Sunday law will produce (1) an image to the beast, (2) the worship of the papacy, and (3) begin the placement of the mark.

“The prophecy of Revelation 13 declares that the power represented by the beast with lamblike horns shall cause ‘the earth and them which dwell therein’ to worship the papacy -there symbolized by the beast ‘like unto a leopard.’ The beast with two horns is also to say ‘to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an Image to the beast;’ and, furthermore, it is to command all, ‘both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,’ to receive ‘the mark of the beast.’ It has been shown that the United States Is the power represented by the beast with lamblike horns, and that this prophecy will be fulfilled when the United States shall enforce Sunday observance, which Rome claims as the special acknowledgment of her supremacy.

But in this homage to papacy the United States will not be alone. The influence of Rome in the countries that once acknowledged her dominion, is still far from being destroyed. And prophecy foretells a restoration of her power.” -Great Controversy, 578:9579:O.

BRINGS WORSHIP OF THE PAPACY

The Leopard like beast of Revelation 13 represents the papacy (Great Controversy, page 443, 445). This beast is worshiped in the act of violating God’s law by keeping Sunday sacred (Testimonies To Ministers, page 133). Efforts to tear down Sabbath observance distinguish the worship of the beast (Great Controversy, page 446). A decree will be made enforcing the worship of the beast (5T 525). Enforcement of Sunday observance will be equivalent to worshiping the beast (Great Controversy, page 448-9). This worship will be enforced on pain of persecution and death (5T 752).

1 - The decree will require the worship of the beast.

“The decree shall go forth requiring all to worship the beast and his image.” -5 Testimonies, 525:2.

2 - That first beast is the papacy.

“In (Revelation] chapter 13 (verses 1-10) is described another beast, ‘like unto a leopard’, to which the dragon gave ‘his power, and his seat, and great authority.’ This symbol, as most Protestants have believed, represents the papacy, which succeeded to the power and seat and authority once held by the ancient Roman empire. This prophecy, which is nearly identical with the description of the little horn of Daniel 7, unquestionably points to the papacy.” - Great Controversy, 439:1.

3 - The second beast will cause men to worship the first beast.

“The prophecy of Revelation 13 declares that the power represented by the beast with lamblike horns shall cause ‘the earth and them which dwell therein’ to worship the papacy, there symbolized by the beast ‘like unto a leopard.’ “-Great Controversy, 578:3.

4 - The decree will require that men worship the beast and receive the mark.

“The decree has been passed by the highest earthly authority that they shall worship the beast and receive his mark under pain of persecution and death. May God help His people now, for what can they then do in such a fearful conflict without His assistance’“ -5 Testimonies, 213:O.

5 - Characteristically, the beast breaks the commandments.

“The special characteristic of the beast, and therefore of his image, is the breaking of God’s commandments.” -Great Controversy, 446:1.

In contrast to those who worship the beast, there will be those who will not worship the beast, for they will not be hallowing the first-day of the week. They will be keeping God’s commandments.

“John was called to behold a people distinct from those who worship the beast or his Image by keeping the first day of the week. The observance of this day is the mark of the beast.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 133:1.

7 - The worship of the beast, mentioned in the third angel’s solemn warning, is the opposite of obedience to God’s commandments.

“After the warning against the worship of the beast and his image, the prophecy declares, ‘Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’ Since those who keep God’s commandments are thus placed In contrast with those that worship the beast and his image and receive his mark, it follows that the keeping of God’s law, on the one hand, and Its violation, on the other, will make the distinction between the worshipers of God and the worshipers of the beast.” -Great Controversy, 445:9.

8 - It will be the enforcement of the false Sabbath.

“A great crisis awaits the people of God. Very soon our nation will attempt to enforce upon all, the observance of the first day of the week as a sacred day. In doing this, they will not scruple to compel men against the voice of their own conscience to observe the day the nation declares to be the Sabbath.” - Review Extra, December 11, 1888.

BRINGS THE MARK OF THE BEAST

1 - The decree requires the worship of the beast and the receiving of his mark.

“This small remnant, unable to defend themselves in the deadly conflict with the powers of earth that are marshaled by the dragon host, make God their defense. The decree has been passed by the highest earthly authority that they shall worship the beast and receive his mark under pain of persecution and death.” -5 Testimonies, 213:O.

2 - No one receives the mark, until he understands the issues and obeys the Sunday law.

“With the Issue thus clearly brought before him, whoever shall trample upon God’s law to obey a human enactment, receives the mark of the beast; he accepts the sign of allegiance to the power which he chooses to obey instead of God. The warning from heaven is ‘If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation.’ “-Great Controversy, 604:3 - 605:O.

3 - The controversy over this basic issue will divide between those who receive the mark and those who receive the seal.

“While the observance of the false Sabbath In compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, In obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” -Great Controversy, 605:2.

4 - Some will refuse to obey the decree to worship the beast and his image.

“If we are true servants of God, there should be no question in our minds as to whether we will obey His commandments or consult our own temporal interests. If the believers in the truth are not sustained by their faith in these comparatively peaceful days what will uphold them when the grand test comes and the decree goes forth against all those who will not worship the Image of the beast and receive his mark in their foreheads or in their hands? This solemn period is not far off. Instead of becoming weak and irresolute, the people of God should be gathering strength and courage for the time of trouble.”-4 Testimonies, 251:1.

5 - The faithful can -even now —say no to the decree.

“Those who would not receive the mark of the beast and his Image when the decree goes I forth, must have decision now to say, Nay, we will I not regard the institution of the beast.” -Early Writings, 67:2.

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS

We have been told that, because Sunday keeping will be the test, the faithful must ever retain the name “Seventh-day Adventist” We are told that the reasons why we must ever retain the name include this one:

“The conflict is between the requirements of God and the requirements of the beast. The first day, a papal institution which directly contradicts the fourth commandment, is yet to be made a test by the two-horned beast. And then the fearful warning from God declares the penalty of bowing to the beast and his image. They shall drink the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation.” 1 Testimonies, 223:2.

While we are on this subject, we should consider a related question: What will the organized leadership of our church will do when the national Sunday law is enacted, and it is no longer legal for the Adventist denomination to exist - if, that is, its organizational structure and leadership continues to worship on the Bible Sabbath?

One possibility is that a controlling number of our leaders will stand true to our historic principles. Another possibility is that they will go into apostasy, leave the church and join the opposition. A third possibility is that they will they continue on as organizational leaders of the denomination-even though they have forsaken the Sabbath and are worshiping on Sunday.

One of those three possibilities will occur.

Yet we just read the statement, which urges the faithful to ever retain the name, “Seventh-day Adventist.” Surely, our heavenly Father will enable the faithful to give a clear-cut message to the world. Why would we be urged to retain the name otherwise? It seems that God will protect that name - and only true Seventh-day Adventists will bear it after the national Sunday law crisis begins. If that be true, then the apostates will totally forsake Adventism, repudiate identification with the “Seventh-day Adventist” name, and join the ranks of the enemy.

(In a later study in this series, we will discuss whether there will be a Seventh-day Adventist organization after the Sunday law is enacted.)

THE NO-BUY-SELL PROVISO

What about the No-buy-sell penalty? Is it the same as the national Sunday law, or is it issued later as a separate decree or law? We are not told much about it, and it could be a follow-up piece of legislation to render even more stringent the provisions and penalties of the national Sunday law (cf. DA 121-122).

1 - Assets will then be worthless.

“Hoarded wealth will soon be worthless. When the decree shall go forth that none shall buy or sell except they have the mark of the beast, very much means will be of no avail. God calls for us now to do all in our power to send forth the warning to the world.” -Last Day Events, 148:2.

2 - The no-buy-sell restriction will apply to commandment-keepers.

“The work must not stop for want of means. More means must be invested in it. Brethren in America, in the name of my Master I bid you wake up! You that are placing your talents of means in a napkin, and hiding them in the earth, who are building houses and adding land to land, God calls upon you, ‘Sell that ye have, and give alms.’ There is a time coming when commandment keepers can neither buy nor sell. Make haste to dig out your buried talents. If God has entrusted you with money, show yourselves faithful to your trust; unwrap you napkin, and send you talents to the exchangers, that when Christ shall come, He may receive His own with interest.” -Counsels on Stewardship, 40:1,

3 - The faithful will be penalized for refusing to break God’s law.

“When we learn the power of His word, we shall not follow the suggestions of Satan in order to obtain food or to save our lives. Our only questions will be, What is God’s command? and what His promise? Knowing these, we shall obey the one, and trust the other.

“In the last great conflict of the controversy with Satan those who are loyal to God will see every earthly support cut off. Because they refuse to break His law In obedience to earthly powers, they will be forbidden to buy or sell. It will finally be decreed that they shall be put to death. See Revelation 13:11-17. But to the obedient is given the promise, ‘He shall dwell on high: his place of defense shall be the munitions of rocks: bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure.’ Isaiah 33:16, By this promise the children of God will live. When the earth shall be wasted with famine, they shall be fed. ‘They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.’ Psalm 37:19.”Desire of Ages, 121:2-122:O.

4 - Only those with the mark will be permitted to buy and sell.

“It is now that our brethren should be cutting down their possessions instead of increasing them. We are about to move to a better country, even a heavenly. Then let us not be dwellers upon the earth, but be getting things into as compact a compass as possible.

“The time is coming when we cannot sell at any price. The decree will soon go forth prohibiting men to buy or sell of any man save him that hath the mark of the beast. We came near having this realized in California a short time since; but this was only the threatening of the blowing of the four winds. As yet they

are held by the four angels. We are not just ready.

There is a work yet to be done, and then the angels will be bidden to go, that the four winds may blow upon the earth. That will be a decisive time for God’s children, a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation. Now is our opportunity to work,”-5 Testimonies, 152:3-2.

“Satan says.. ‘For fear of wanting food and clothing they will join with the world in transgressing God’s law. The earth will be wholly under my dominion.’ “-Prophet and Kings, 183:3, 184.:2.

5 - In addition to no-buy-sell, there will be the threat of punishment and death.

“Wonderful events are soon to open before the world. The end of all things is at hand. The time of trouble is about to come upon the people of God. Then it is that the decree will go forth forbidding those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord to buy or sell, and threatening them with punishment, and even death, if they do not observe the first day of the week as the Sabbath.” Lift Him Up, 947:9.

“As Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon issued a decree that all who would not bow down and worship this image should be killed, so a proclamation will be made that all who will not reverence the Sunday Institution will be punished with Imprisonment and death. Let all read carefully the thirteenth chapter of Revelation, for it concerns every human agent, great and small.”-14 Manuscript Releases, 91 (1896).

LEAVE THE LARGE CITIES

1 - Move out of the cities —before you can no longer do so.

“The trades unions and confederacies of the world are a snare. Keep out of them, and away from them, brethren. Have nothing to do with them. Because of these unions and confederacies, it will soon be very difficult for our institutions to carry on their work in the cities. My warning is: Keep out of the cities. Build no sanitariums in the cities. Educate our people to get out of the cities into the country, where they can obtain a small piece of land, and make a home for themselves and their children.

“Our restaurants must be in the cities; for otherwise the workers in these restaurants could not reach the people and teach them the principles of right living. And for the present we shall have to occupy meetinghouses in the cities. But erelong there will be such strife and confusion In the cities, that those who wish to leave them will not be able. We must be preparing for these Issues.” -2 Selected Messages, 142:3-4.

“He wants us to live where we can have elbow room. His people are not to crowd into the cities. He wants them to take their families out of the cities, that they may better prepare for eternal life. In a little while they will have to leave the cities. Get out of the cities as soon as possible.” 2 Selected Message, 356:3, 5.

2 - The Sunday law decree will be a special sign to leave the large cities.

“It is no time now for God’s people to be fixing their affections or laying up their treasure in the world. The time is not far distant, when, like the early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. As the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman armies was the signal for flight to the Judean Christians, so the assumption of power on the part of our nation in the decree enforcing the papal Sabbath will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave the large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains.” -5 Testimonies, 464:3-465:O (Country Living, 32).

3 - In view of that, we are now to have no centers in any city.

“For years I have been given special light that we are not to center our work in the cities. The turmoil and confusion that fill these cities, the conditions brought about by the labor unions and the strikes, would prove a great hindrance to our work. Men are seeking to bring those engaged in the different trades under bondage to certain unions. This is not God’s planning, but the planning of a power that we should in no wise acknow-ledge. God’s word is fulfilling; the wicked are binding themselves up in bundles ready to be burned.” – 7 Testimonies, 84:2.

4 - Live where you can keep the Sabbath unhindered.

“We are not to locate ourselves where we will be forced into close relations with those who do not honor God. A crisis is soon to come In regard to the observance of Sunday. “The Sunday party is strengthening itself in its false claims, and this will mean oppression to those who determine to keep the Sabbath of the Lord. We are to place ourselves where we can carry out the Sabbath commandment in its fullness. ‘Six days shall thou labor,’ the Lord declares, ‘and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shall not do any work.’ And we are to be careful not to place ourselves where it will be hard for ourselves and our children to keep the Sabbath.” If in the providence of God we can secure pla-ces away from the cities, the Lord would have us do this. There are troublous times before us. I see the necessity of making haste to get all things ready for the crisis.” -2 Selected Messages, 359:2-5

5 - God will help you find a secluded place.

“I was pleading with some families to avail themselves of God’s appointed means, and get away from the cities to save their children. Some were loitering, making no determined efforts.

“The angels of mercy hurried Lot and his wife and daughters by taking hold of their hands. Had Lot hastened as the Lord desired him to, his wife would not have become a pillar of salt. Lot had too much of a lingering spirit. Let us not be like him. The same voice that warned Lot to leave Sodom bids us, ‘Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean.’ Those who obey this warning will find a refuge. Let every man be wide awake for himself, and try to save his family. Let him gird himself for the work. God will reveal from point to point what to do next.”-Country Living, 6:6-7:O.

THE TRADES UNIONS

1 - Beware of organizations opposed to the law of God.

“Men have confederated to oppose the Lord of hosts. These confederacies will continue until Christ shall leave His place of intercession before the mercy seat and shall put on the garments of vengeance. Satanic agencies are in every city, busily organizing into parties those opposed to the law of God. Professed saints and avowed unbelievers take their stand with these parties. This is no time for the people of God to be weaklings. We cannot afford to be off our guard for one moment.” -8 Testimonies, 42:2.

“The trades unions will be one of the agencies that will bring upon this earth a time of trouble such as has not been since the world began.”-2 Selected Messages, 142:1.

“Because of these unions and confederacies, it will soon be very difficult for our institutions to carry on their work in the cities. My warning is: Keep out of the cities. Build no sanitariums in the cities.” -2 Selected Messages, 142:3.

2 - Men are binding into bundles of disobedient ones.

“These unions are one of the signs of the last days. Men are binding up in bundles ready to be burned. They may be church members, but while they belong to these unions, they cannot possibly keep the commandments of God; for to belong to these unions means to disregard the entire Decalogue.” -2 Selected Messages, 143:3.

HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THEM

1 - We must not unite with them.

“Those who claim to be the children of God are in no case to bind up with the labor unions that are formed or that shall be formed. This the Lord forbids. Cannot those who study the prophecies see and understand what is before us? “-2 Selected Messages, 144:1.

2 - We are to stand free in God.

“We are now to use all our entrusted capabilities in giving the last warning message to the world. In this work we are to preserve our Individuality. We are not to unite with secret societies or with trade-unions. We are to stand free In God, looking constantly to Christ for instruction. All our movements are to be made with a realization of the importance of the work to be accomplished for God.”-7 Testimonies, 84:3.

3- Membership in the unions will wrap you in the fold of the enemy.

“The work of the people of God is to prepare for the events of the future, which will soon come upon them with blinding force. In the world gigantic monopolies will be formed. Men will bind themselves together in unions that will wrap them in the folds of the enemy. A few men will combine to grasp all the means to be obtained in certain lines of business. Trade unions will be formed, and those who refuse to join these unions will be marked men.” -2 Selected Messages, 142:2.

OPPRESSIVE AGENCIES OF SATAN

1 - The power of labor unions will be oppressive. ”The time is fast coming when the controlling power of the labor unions will be very oppressive. Again and again the lord has instructed that our people are to take their families away from the cities into the country, where they can raise their own provisions; for in the future the problem of buying and selling will be a very serious one. We should now begin to heed the instruction given us over and over again: Get out of the cities into rural districts, where the houses are not crowded closely together, and where you will be free from the interference of enemies.” -2 Selected Messages, 141:1.

2 - Trades unions will help bring the time of trouble.

“The trades unions will be one of the agencies that will bring upon this earth a time of trouble such as has not been since the world began.”-2 Selected Messages, 142:1.

3 - They will bring most terrible violence.

“There is a great work before us. The enemy has succeeded in occupying the minds of those who believe the truth for this time, and hindrance after hindrance has been placed in the way of the advancement of God’s work. . It will be more difficult in the future than it is today. Satanic agencies are becoming more determined in their rebellion against God. The trade unions will be the cause of the most terrible violence that has ever been seen among human beings.” Letter 99, 1904, p. 3. (To J. E. White and wife, February 23, 1904.) - 4 Manuscript Releases, 23:3.

4 - These are agencies which God will not much longer tolerate.

“Cast out of heaven, Satan set up his kingdom in this world, and ever since he has been untiringly striving to seduce human beings from their allegiance to God. He uses the same power that he used in heaven -the influence of mind on mind. Men become tempters of their fellowmen. The strong, corrupting sentiments of Satan are cherished, and they exert a masterly, compelling power. Under the Influence of these sentiments, men bind up with one another in confederacies, In trade unions, and In secret societies. There are at work in the world agencies that God will not much longer tolerate.” 1 Mind, Character, and Personality, 28:3.

THE UNIVERSAL SUNDAY LAW

Under the influence of the United States of America, the apostasy will spread throughout the world as other nations enact their own national Sunday laws. The result will be a world-wide, or universal, Sunday law. The pattern shown in the quotations is this:

In an earlier section on the False Latter Rain, we noted three things that will greatly impact both on the nations of Christendom and non-Christian nations:

But it will all lead to worship of the antichrist by the world. And Satan will be behind it all.

“In this age antichrist will appear as the true Christ, and then the law of God will be fully made void In the nations of our world. Rebellion against God’s holy law will be fully ripe. But the true leader of all this rebellion is Satan clothed as an angel of light. Men will be deceived and will exalt him to the place of God, and deify him. But Omnipotence will interpose, and to the apostate churches that unite in the exaltation of Satan, the sentence will go forth, ‘Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judges her.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 62:1.

PROTESTANT, THEN CATHOLIC NATIONS

1 - Rome is influential in many countries.

“In homage to the Papacy the United States will not be alone. The Influence of Rome In the countries that once acknowledge her dominion, Is still far from being destroyed.” Maranatha, 188:1.

2 - Romanism in Europe and Protestantism in North America will enact the law.

“In the last conflict the Sabbath will be the special point of controversy throughout all Christendom. Secular rulers and religious leaders will unite to enforce the observance of the Sunday; and as milder measures fail, the most oppressive laws will be enacted. It will be urged that the few who stand in opposition to an institution of the church and a law of the land ought not to be tolerated; and a decree will finally be issued denouncing them as deserving of the severest punishment, and giving the people liberty, after a certain time, to put them to death. Romanism in the Old World, and apostate Protestantism In the New, will pursue a similar course toward those who honor the divine precepts.” - 4 Spirit of Prophecy, 444:2- 445:O [1884 Great Controversy.

“Romanism In the Old World, and apostate Protestantism In the New, will pursue a similar course toward those who honor all the divine precepts.”-Great Controversy, 616:O (1911).

Note: According to above four statements, it appears that, while Protestantism will lead in causing enactment of the National Sunday law in Protestant America, Roman Catholicism will lead in coercing the Catholic nations of Europe to follow suit.

ALL NATIONS OF CHRISTENDOM WILL ADOPT IT

1 - The whole Christian world will be involved.” In the great conflict between faith and unbelief the whole Christian world will be involved.” Last Day Events, 137:1.

2 - All Christendom will enact it, and the attention of the entire world will be upon it.

“The warning of the third angel is represented in the prophecy as being proclaimed with a loud voice, by an angel flying in the midst of heaven; and it will command the attention of the world.

“In the issue of the contest all Christendom will be divided into two great classes - those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark. Although church and state will unite their power to compel ‘all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond’ (Revelation 13:16), to receive ‘the mark of the beast,’ yet the people of God will not receive it” Great Controversy, 450:O-1.

3 - The Protestant world will adopt it, and the nations will be stirred.

“Nations will be stirred to their very center. Support will be withdrawn from those who proclaim God’s only standard of righteousness, the only sure test of character. And all who will not bow to the decree of the national councils and obey the national laws to exalt the Sabbath instituted by the man of sin, to the disregard of God’s holy day, will feel, not the oppressive power of popery alone, but of the Protestant world, the image of the beast” -2 Selected Messages, 380:1.

THEN TO THE NON-CHRISTIAN NATIONS

First, the Christian world; and then every nation will become involved - and worship the beast and his image.

“The so-called Christian world is to be the theater of great decisive actions. Men in authority will enact laws controlling the conscience, after the example of the Papacy. Babylon will make all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Every nation will be involved [Rev 18:37 quoted].”- Maranatha, 188:3.

EVERY NATION ON EARTH WILL REQUIRE IT

1 - It will go to all the world.

“The decree enforcing the worship of this day is to go forth to all the world.” -7 Bible Commentary, 976/2:3.

2 - All the world will act a part.

“The Sabbath question is to be the issue in the great final conflict in which all the world will act a part,”- 6 Testimonies, 352:1.

3 - Foreign nations will accept it.

“Foreign nations will follow the example of the United States, Though she leads out, yet the same crisis will come upon our people in all parts of the world.”- 6 Testimonies, 395:1.

4 - The powers of earth will decree it.” Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought. The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that all, ‘both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,’ shall conform to the customs of the church by the observance of the false Sabbath.”- Great Controversy, 604:2.

5 - Every nation will join the universal bond of union.

“The so-called Christian world is to be the theater of great and decisive actions. Men in authority will enact laws controlling the conscience, after the example of the papacy. Babylon will make all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Every nation will be involved. Of this time John the Revelator declares:.. [Revelation 18:3-7; 17:13-14, quoted].

‘These have one mind.’ There will be a universal bond of union, one great harmony, a confederacy of Satan’s forces. ‘And shall give their power and strength unto the beast.’ Thus is manifested the same arbitrary, oppressive power against religious liberty-freedom to worship God according to the dictates of conscience -as was manifested by the papacy, when in the past it persecuted those who dared to refuse to conform with the religious rites and ceremonies of Romanists.”-3 Selected Messages, 392:1, 3-4.

6 - All nations, tongues, and peoples will be commanded to practice it.

“History will be repeated. False religion will be exalted. The first day of the week, a common working day, possessing no sanctity whatever, will be set up as was the image at Babylon, All nations and tongues and peoples will be commanded to worship this spurious Sabbath. This is Satan’s plan to make of no account the day instituted by God, and given to the world as a memorial of Creation. . The decree enforcing the worship of this day is to go forth to all the world.” - Maranatha, 214:1 / 7 Bible Commentary, 976/2:3.

7 - Every country on the globe will follow America’s example.

“As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcing the conscience and compelling men to honor the false Sabbath, the people of every country on the globe will be led to follow her example.”- 6 Testimonies, 18:2.

8 - The substitution will become universal.

“The substitution of the false for the true is the last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal God will reveal Himself, When the laws of men are exalted above the laws of God, when the powers of this earth try to force men to keep the first day of the week, know that the time has come for God to work.” -7 Bible Commentary, 980/2:4.

“The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the exaltation, by merely human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is the last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal God will reveal Himself. He will arise in His majesty to shake terribly the earth.” 7 Testimonies, 141:1.

9 - All will take sides; no one will remain neutral.

“In the great conflict between faith and unbelief the whole Christian world will be involved. All will take sides. Some apparently may not engage in the conflict on either side. They may not appear to take sides against the truth, but they will not come out boldly for Christ through fear of losing property or suffering reproach. All such are numbered with the enemies of Christ.” -Last Day Events, 215:2.

REMAIN FAITHFUL TO GOD

1 - The small group loyal to God will be the subject of universal execration.

“As the Sabbath has become the special point of controversy throughout Christendom and religious and secular authorities have combined to enforce the observance of the Sunday, the persistent refusal of a small minority to yield to the popular demand will make them objects of universal execration.” -Great Controversy, 615:2.

2 - Amid all that happens, the faithful will stand true.

“The season of distress before God’s people will call for a faith that will not falter. His children must make it manifest that He is the only object of their worship, and that no consideration, not even that of life itself, can Induce them to make the least concession to false worship. To the loyal heart the commands of sinful, finite men will sink into insignificance beside the word of the eternal God. Truth will be obeyed though the result be imprisonment or exile or death.”-Prophets and Kings, 512:2-513:O.

3 - All the corrupt powers of earth will be in opposition to God’s people.

“In the warfare to be waged in the last days there will be united, In opposition to God’s people, all the corrupt powers that have apostatized from allegiance to the law of Jehovah. In this

warfare the Sabbath of the fourth commandment will be the great point at issue, for in the Sabbath commandment the great Lawgiver identifies Himself as the Creator of the heavens and the earth.”-3 Selected Messages, 392:5-393:O.

4 - The whole wicked world will be converted, keep Sunday, and oppose God’s faithful ones.

“The wicked declared that they had the truth, that miracles were among them, that angels from heaven talked with them and walked with them, that great power and signs and wonders were performed among them, and that this was the temporal millennium that they had been expecting so long. The whole world was converted and in harmony with the Sunday law.” -3 Selected Messages, 427:5, 428:1.

“The whole world is to be stirred with enmity against Seventh-day Adventists because they will not yield homage to the papacy by honoring Sunday, the institution of this antichristian power.” Testimonies to Ministers, 37:O.

“Those who trample upon God’s law make human laws which they will force the people to accept. Men will devise and counsel and plan what they will do. The whole world keeps Sunday, they say, and why should not this people, who are so few in number, do according to the laws of the land?” -Last Day Events, 136:3.

Note: We will learn in the chapter on the False Latter Rain that Satan will personally appear (as Christ) to induce other nations to enact the national Sunday laws. We will there learn that he will also use apparent reincarnations of heathen gods to aid in deceiving them.

UNIVERSAL SUNDAY LAW

The enactment of a national Sunday law by the United States will hurl the people of our land into the events of the Final Crisis. But when similar legislation spreads to every other nation-thus becoming a universal Sunday law-mankind will be on the edge of the general close of probation. Enactment of that law In a nation brings the mark-seal-loud cry cluster of events. But when the very last nation has adopted It, nearly all the other nations will have made their decision. Thus, probation for humanity will close soon after the law becomes worldwide.

“God gives nations a certain time of probation.” -4 Bible Commentary, 1143.

“With unerring accuracy the Infinite One still keeps an account with all nations. While His mercy is tendered, with calls to repentance, this account will remain open; but when the figures reach a certain amount, which God has fixed, the ministry of His wrath commences. The account is closed. Divine patience ceases. There is no more pleading of mercy in their behalf.”-5 Testimonies, 208.

“God keeps a record with the nations: the figures are swelling against them in the books of heaven; and when It shall have become a law that the transgression of the first day of the week shall be met with punishment, then their cup will be full.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 910.

“When the accumulated figures in heaven’s record books shall mark the sum of transgression complete, wrath will come, unmixed with mercy, and then it will be seen what a tremendous thing it is to have worn out the divine patience. This crisis will be reached when the nations shall unite In making void God’s law.” -5 Testimonies, 524.

“This earth has almost reached the place where God will permit the destroyer to work his will upon it. The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the exaltation, by merely human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is the last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal, God will reveal Himself. He will arise in His majesty to shake terrible the earth. He will come out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the world for their iniquity, and the earth shall disclose her blood and shall no more cover her slain.” - 7 Testimonies, 141.

“The substitution of the false for the true is the last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal, God will reveal Himself. When the laws of men are exalted above the laws of God, when the powers of this earth try to force men to keep the first day of the week, know that the time has come for God to work. He will arise in His majesty, and will shake terrible the earth. He will come out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the world for their iniquity.” -7 Bible Commentary, 980.

THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST

In Revelation 13, we are told about the first (leopard like) beast, which is Rome. Then we are shown a second (lamb like) beast, which is the United States of America. This second beast makes an image of (also to) the first beast. The setting up of that image constitutes a church-state union mirroring the earlier 1260-year persecuting actions of the first beast. When apostate Protestantism coerces the U.S. government to enact the national Sunday law, -that image will have been set up. The image does not exist until that enactment is made.

In summary then; the image will be formed by the two-horned beast of Revelation 13 (Great Controversy, page 443, 445), which is the Protestant churches of America (Great Controversy, page 443-450). This image is of / to the leopard like beast of Revelation 13 (Great Controversy, page 443), so it is an image of the papacy (Great Controversy, page 443,445; Story Of Redemption, page 381-3). In addition, we are told, it will be formed before probation closes (7BC 976; 2SM 81).

A detailed analysis of the truths of Revelation 13 is given in chapter 25 of Great Controversy (pages 433-450).

WHAT THE IMAGE IS

1 - It is made by the lamblike beast as a duplicate (in principles and methods) OF the leopard beast. It is also made TO that beast, that is, it is done as an act of veneration to the first beast to enhance it’s power and influence.

“What is the ‘image to the beast’? and how is it to be formed? The image is made by the two-horned beast, and is an image to the [first] beast. It is also called an image of the beast. Then to learn what the image is like, and how it is to be formed, we must study the characteristics of the beast itself,-the papacy.”-Great Controversy, 443:l.

2 - The image is set up when the church uses the state’s power to force men to obey its own dictates.

“In order for the United States to form an image of the beast, the religious power must so control the civil government that the authority of the state will also be employed by the church to accomplish her own ends.” -Great Controversy, 443:2.

HOW IMAGE WILL BE FORMED

1 - The image is formed when the religious power, because of apostasy, tries - and succeeds - in controlling the government to enforce church decrees; just as the papacy did centuries earlier.

“It was apostasy that led the early church to seek the aid of the civil government, and this prepared the way for the development of the papacy, -the beast.” -Great Controversy, 443:2, 4.

2 - It will be formed when apostate Protestantism coerces civil authorities into enforcing church doctrines. In so doing the Protestant/government union will have produced a working image of the papacy.

“The ‘image to the beast’ represents that form of apostate Protestantism which will be developed when the Protestant churches shall seek the aid of the civil power for the enforcement of their dogmas.” -Great Controversy, 445:2.

3 - It will be formed when the churches unite with the state to enforce a false religion.

“With rapid steps we are approaching this period. When the Protestant churches shall unite with the secular power to sustain a false religion, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution: When the state shall use Its power to enforce the decrees and sustain the Institutions of the church,-then will Protestant America have formed an image to the Papacy, and there will be a national apostasy which will end only in national ruin.”-7 Bible Commentary, 976/1:4.

4 - It will be the civil enforcement of a religious duty.

“But in the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches would themselves form an image to the beast; hence the enforcement of Sunday-keeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the worship of the beast and his image.” -Great Controversy, 449:O.

5 - The government legislature will command obedience to that which is actually a papal decree.

“In the time of testing and trial the shield of Omnipotence will be spread over those whom God has made the depositaries of His law. When legislators shall abjure the [religious liberty] principles of Protestantism, so as to give countenance and the right hand of fellowship to Romanism, then God will interpose in a special manner in behalf of His own honor and the salvation of His people.

“The principles necessary for our youth to cultivate must be kept before them in their daily education, that when the decree shall go forth requiring all to worship the beast and his image, they may make the right decisions, and have strength to declare, without wavering, their confidence in the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, even at the very time when the law of God Is made void by the religious world;”-5 Testimonies, 525:1-2.

6 - In contrast, the opposite of worship of the beast is obedience-through Christ’s grace-to the laws of God. In the contest, everyone will decide whether he will obey God or man.

“After the warning against the worship of the beast and his image, the prophecy declares, ‘Here [in contrast] are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’ Since those who keep God’s commandments are thus placed In contrast with those that worship the beast and his Image and receive his mark, it follows that the keeping of God’s law, on the one hand, and its violation, on the other, will make the distinction between the worshipers of God and the worshipers of the beast.” -Great Controversy, 445:3-446:O.

IMPLICATIONS OF THIS TERRIBLE EVENT

1 - This legislation will require obedience to commonly-held points of faith of the churches, and will result in heavy persecution to the people of God.

“By this first [leopard] beast Is represented the Roman Church, an ecclesiastical body clothed with civil power, having authority to punish all dissenters. The Image to the beast represents another religious body clothed with similar powers. The formation of this image is the work of that beast whose peaceful rise and mild professions render it so striking a symbol of the United States. Here Is to be found an Image of the Papacy. When the churches of our land, uniting upon such points of faith as are held by them In common, shall Influence the State to enforce their decrees and sustain their Institutions, then will Protestant America have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy. Then the true church will be assailed by persecution, as were God’s ancient people.” - Story of Redemption, 381:2-382:O.

2 - The worship of the beast will be enforced with the threat of death.

“John was shown the last great struggles of the church with earthly powers, he was also permitted to behold the final victory and deliverance of the faithful. He saw the church brought Into deadly conflict with the beast and his Image, and the worship of the beast enforced on pain of death. But looking beyond the smoke and din of the battle, he beheld a company upon Mount Zion with the Lamb, having, instead of the mark of the beast, the ‘Father’s name written in their foreheads.’ And again he saw ‘them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God’ and singing the song of Moses and the Lamb.” -5 Testimonies, 752:3-753:O.

3 - The lives of God’s people will be in danger; their only safety will be in clinging to Jesus, and, by faith, looking upward to Him as He ministers in the most holy place.

“Said the [third) angel: ‘They will be brought Into close combat with the beast and his Image. Their only hope of eternal life is to remain steadfast. Although their lives are at stake, they must hold fast the truth.’ The third angel closes his message thus: ‘Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’ As he repeated these words, he pointed to the heavenly sanctuary. The minds of all who embrace this message are directed to the most holy place, where Jesus stands before the ark, making His final intercession.” -Early Writings, 254:1.

4 - Persecution always follows religious favoritism by a government.

“But the stern tracings of the prophetic pencil reveal a change in this peaceful scene. The beast with Iamb-like horns speaks with the voice of a dragon, and ‘exercises all the power of the first beast before him. ‘ The spirit of persecution manifested by paganism and the papacy is again to be revealed. Prophecy declares that this power will say ‘to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast.’ [Rev. 13:14.) The Image Is made to the first or leopard-like beast, which is the one brought to view in the third angel’s message. By this first beast is represented the Roman Church, an ecclesiastical body clothed with civil power, having authority to punish all dissenters. The image to the beast represents another religious body clothed with similar power. The formation of this Image is the work of that beast whose peaceful rise and mild professions render it so striking a symbol of the United States. Here is to be found an image of the papacy. When the churches of our land uniting upon such points of faith as are held by them In common, shall Influence the State to enforce their decrees and sustain their Institutions, then will Protestant America have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy. Then the true church will be assailed by persecution, as were God’s ancient people. Almost every century furnishes examples of what bigotry and malice can do under a plea of serving God by protecting the rights of Church and State. Protestant churches that have followed in the steps of Rome by forming alliance with worldly powers have manifested a similar desire to restrict liberty of conscience. In the seventeenth century thousands of nonconformist ministers suffered under the rule of the Church of England. Persecution always follows religious favoritism on the part of secular governments.” - 4 Spirit of Prophecy, 277:02 (1884 Great Controversy).

IMAGE FORMED BEFORE PROBATION CLOSES

1 - It will be formed before probation closes.” The Lord has shown me clearly that the Image of the beast will be formed before probation closes; for it is to be the great test for the people of God, by which their eternal destiny will be decided.”-2 Selected Messages, 81:O.

NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW IS ENACTED

The image represents a religious body clothed with civil power (Story Of Redemption, page 381), and represents a form of apostate Protestantism (Great Controversy, page 445). It is formed by the union of church and state (Great Controversy, page 443). Sunday observance is the worship of the image and the beast (Great Controversy, page 449; Testimonies To Ministers, page 133). It is formed when Sunday observance becomes the worship of the image of the beast (Great Controversy, page 449). The enforcement of Sunday observance in the United States would be the setting up of the image to the beast (Great Controversy, page 449). The Sunday law decree will enforce the worship of the beast (4T 251).

The Sunday law decree will require all to worship the image (5T 525).

1 - The image will be formed when the churches select jointly held religious beliefs, and coerce the federal government into requiring obedience to them.

“By this first beast is represented the Roman Church, an ecclesiastical body clothed with civil power, having authority to punish all dissenters. The image to the beast represents another religious body clothed with similar powers. The formation of this Image Is the work of that beast whose peaceful rise and mild professions render it so striking a symbol of the United States. Here is to be found an image of the Papacy. When the churches of our land, uniting upon such points of faith as are held by them In common, shall Influence the State to enforce their decrees and sustain their Institutions, then will Protestant America have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy. Then the true church will be assailed by persecution,

as were God’s ancient people.” - Story of Redemption, 381:2-382:O.

“When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall Influence the state to enforce their decrees and to sustain their Institutions, then Protestant America will have formed an Image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result.” -Great Controversy, 445:1.

2 - Protestant enforcement of Sunday keeping on church members IS the worship of the beast. But Protestant-coerced government enforcement of Sunday keeping on citizens is the worship of the beast AND its image.

“The enforcement of Sunday keeping on the part of Protestant churches is an enforcement of the worship of the papacy-of the beast. Those who, understanding the claims of the fourth commandment, choose to observe the false instead of the true Sabbath, are thereby paying homage to that power by which alone it is commanded. But In the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches would them-selves form an Image to the beast; hence the enforcement of Sunday-keeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the worship of the beast and his Image.” -Great Controversy, 448:3-449:O.

NATIONAL APOSTASY AND NATIONAL RUIN

1 - The Sunday law will produce national apostasy.

2 - It will disconnect America from righteousness, and will mean the repudiation of the principles of the U.S. Constitution.

“By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of Its constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near.” -5 Testimonies, 451:1.

3 - The Sunday law will bring a national apostasy, which will inevitably end in national ruin.

“When the Protestant churches shall unite with the secular power to sustain a false religion, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution; when the state shall use its power to enforce the decrees and sustain the institutions of the church -then will Protestant America have formed an image to the papacy, and there will be a national apostasy which will end only In national ruin.” -7 Bible Commen-tary, 976 /1:4.

“When our nation, in its legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men in regard to their religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and bringing oppressive power to bear against those who keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the law of God will, to all intents and purposes, be made void in our land, and national apostasy will be followed by national ruin.” -7 Bible Commentary, 977 /1:2.

“When Protestant churches shall seek the support of the secular power, thus following the example of that apostate church, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution, then will there be a national apostasy which will end only In national ruin.” - 4 Spirit of Prophecy, 410 (1884).

4 - The national apostasy will be a signal that the national ruin will follow.

“It is at the time of the national apostasy When, acting on the policy of Satan, the rulers of the land will rank themselves on the side of the man of sin. It is then the measure of guilt is full. The national apostasy Is the signal for national ruin.” -2 Selected Messages, 373:O.

5 - The national ruin will follow speedily.

“Protestants will work upon the rulers of the land to make laws to restore the lost ascendancy of the man of sin, who sits in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God. Roman Catholic principles will be taken under the care and protection of the state. This national apostasy will speedily be followed by national ruin. . The Protestant governments will reach a strange pass. They will be converted to the world. They will also, in their separation from God, work to make falsehood and apostasy from God the law of the nation.”-Review, June 15, 1897.

6 - A full measure of guilt will be the result.

“The people of the United States have been a favored people; but when they restrict religious liberty, surrender Protestantism, and give countenance to popery, the measure of their guilt will be full, and ‘national apostasy’ will be registered in the books of heaven.” - Review, May 2, 1893.

“So may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God’s forbearance is reached, that the measure of our nation’s Iniquity Is full.” -5 Testimonies, 451.

7 - That apostasy will be a special sign that the end of probation is near.

“As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God’s forbearance Is reached, that the measure of our nation’s iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy is about to take her flight, never to return.” -5 Testimonies, 451:1-2.

8 - Then God will work for His people.

“When the law of God has been made void, and apostasy becomes a national sin, the Lord will work In behalf of His people.” - Review Extra, December 24, 1889.

AVOID WORSHIPING THE BEAST AND HIS IMAGE

1 - This is a matter of grave importance.

2 - When the test comes, will we obey God’s commandments, or our own interests and the commands of men?

“If we are true servants of God, there should be no question in our minds as to whether we will obey His commandments or consult our own temporal interests. If the believers in the truth are not sustained by their faith in these comparatively peaceful days, what will uphold them when the grand test comes and the decree goes forth against all those who will not worship the Image of the beast and receive his mark in their foreheads or in their hands? This solemn period is not far off. Instead of becoming weak and irresolute, the people of God should be gathering strength and courage for the time of trouble.”-4 Testimonies, 251:1.

3 - Victory over the beast and his image will only be for those who obey God and keep His holy Sabbath.

“And when [just before the Second Advent the voice of God spoke, delivering His people and] the never-ending blessing was pronounced on those who had honored God In keeping His Sabbath holy, there was a mighty shout of victory over the beast and over his image.” Early Writings, 286:O.

4 - We are not to reverence Sunday.

“We must take a firm stand that we will not reverence the first day of the week as the Sabbath, for it is not the day that was blessed and sanctified by Jehovah, and In reverencing Sunday we should place ourselves on the side of the great deceiver.

“When the law of God has been made void and apostasy becomes a national sin, the Lord will work in behalf of His people.” - 9 Selected Messages, 388:3, 5.

Note: A study on what God’s people should do on Sunday during the crisis will be found near the beginning of the “Loud Cry” section of this compilation.

WE SHOULD NOW TRY TO DEFEAT SUNDAY LAWS

1 - Sunday laws are inevitable.

“Sooner or later Sunday laws will be passed.”-Last Day Events, 128:4.

2 - Avert the danger.

“It is our duty to do all In our power to avert the threatened danger. A vast responsibility is devolving upon men and women of prayer throughout the land to petition that God may sweep back this cloud of evil, and give a few more years of grace to work for the Master.” -Last Day Events, 126:3.

3 - Work earnestly.

“Those who are now keeping the commandments of God need to bestir themselves that they may obtain the special help which God alone can give them. They should work more earnestly to delay as long as possible the threatened calamity.” -Last Day Events, 126:1-127:O.

4 - Do not be silent.

“Let not the commandment-keeping people of God be silent at this time as though we gracefully accepted the situation.”-7 Bible Commentary, 975/1 :1.

5 - Earnestly pray.

“We are not doing the will of God if we sit in quietude, doing nothing to preserve liberty of conscience. Fervent, effectual prayer should be ascending to heaven that this calamity may be deferred until we can accomplish the work, which has so long been neglected. Let there be most earnest prayer and then let us work in harmony with our prayers.” - 5 Testimonies, 714:O.

6 - Give the warning about the coming Sunday laws.

“There are many who are at ease, who are, as it were, asleep. They say, ‘If prophecy has foretold the enforcement of Sunday observance the law will surely be enacted,’ and having come to this conclusion they sit down in a calm expectation of the event, comforting themselves with the thought that God will protect His people in the day of trouble. But God will not save us if we make no effort to do the work He has committed to our charge.

“As faithful watchmen you should see the sword coming and give the warning, that men and women may not pursue a course through ignorance that they would avoid If they knew the truth.” -Last Day Events, 127:3-4.

7 - Do not support men who suppress religious liberty.

“We cannot labor to please men who will use their Influence to repress religious liberty and to set in operation oppressive measures to lead or compel their fellow men to keep Sunday as the Sabbath. The first day of the week is not a day to be reverenced. It is a spurious Sabbath, and the members of the Lord’s family cannot participate with the men who exalt this day and violate the law of God by trampling upon His Sabbath. The people of God are not to vote to place such men in office, for when they do this they are partakers with them of the sins, which they commit while in office.” - Fundamentals of Christian Education, 475:2.

8 - Emphasize the importance of obeying God’s law.

“I do hope that the trumpet will give a certain sound in regard to this Sunday-law movement. I think that it would be best if in our papers the subject of the perpetuity of the law of God were made a specialty. . We should now be doing our very best to defeat this Sunday law.” Counsels to Writers, 97:1, 98:1.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW

Laws Enforcing Sunday as the Sabbath Bring About National Apostasy in the United States. –

“Any fallacy is likely to be received by a people who make void the law of God. There is a crisis just ahead of those who are acting on a shortsighted policy. The rulers of the land will take their position above the great Creator of the world. The claims of a false Sabbath will be brought to the front, and the rulers and the people will act upon the principle of a shortsighted policy. The false Sabbath, the first day of the week, will be accepted, and the rulers will unite with the man of sin to restore his lost ascendancy. Laws enforcing the observance of Sunday as the Sabbath will bring about a national apostasy from the principles of re-publicanism upon which the government has been founded. The religion of the papacy will be accepted by the rulers, and the law of God will be made void.”- Manuscript 39, 1906, pp.1-2. {The Law of God, copied May 1, 1906). [See also: 7BC 412.]

OUT OF CITIES

The Time Is Coming When God’s People Will Have to live in Small Companies Away From the Cities. - ”The plagues of the last days are to be poured out on the inhabitants of the world, who have shown marked contempt for the law of God. God’s people should seek to reach the people of the world, proclaiming the truth as it is found in His Word. But the time will come when they will have to move away from the cities and live in small companies by themselves.

Those Who Choose to Remain in the Cities Must Share in Their Coming disasters.-”If our people regard God’s instruction as of value, they will move out of the city, so that they will not be pained by its revolting sights, and so that their children will not be corrupted by its vices. Those who choose to remain in the cities, surrounded by the houses of unbelievers, must share [in] the disasters that will come upon them..

Rationalizing That There is Patronage for Our Sanitariums to Be Gained in the Cities Is Not God-inspired Reasoning.

“The time is not far distant when every city will be visited by the plagues of God. Those who suppose that the patronage to be gained [for our sanitariums] in the congested cities would be a great advantage, do not reason wisely. In this respect their reasoning is not inspired of God. Men should have less confidence in their finite wisdom.” -Manuscript 41, 1902, pp. 3-4, 10-11. (The Location of the Sanitarium in Southern California, March 14, 1902).

It is Time to Leave the Cities.- “It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many of those older in years, who put their trust in their own capabilities will be ensnared and taken by the enemy.” -Letter 5, 1903, pg. 7r. (To A. G. Daniells, January 5, 1903.) [See also: OHC 85, 132; TMK 351.]

Agencies Through Which Satan Is Working in Crowded Cities.- “Satan is busily at work in our crowded cities. His work is to be seen in the confusion, the strife, and discord between labor and capital, and the hypocrisy that has come into the churches. The lust of the flesh, the pride of the eyes, the display of selfishness, the misuse of power, the cruelty, and the force used to cause men to unite with confederacies and unions, -binding themselves up in bundles for the burning of the great fires of the last days,-all these are the working of satanic agencies.” Manuscript 139, 1903, pp. 5-6. (The Message in Revelation, October 23, 1903). [See also: 7BC 410, 421-2; Evangelism 26; UL 310.]

Evil Angels Are in Every Mob Inciting Men to Commit Deeds of Violence.- “No scientific theory can explain the steady march of evil workers under the generalship of Satan. In every mob wicked angels are at work rousing men to commit deeds of violence. Satan seems to have taken control of the minds of men. Murder, robbery, wickedness of every kind, reveal the leadership of the great enemy of souls.

Man’s Cruelty Will Reach Such Heights that God Will Reveal Himself. - “In the days of Noah, violence filled the land; and thus Christ has told us that it will be in the last days. The history of the old world is to be repeated. The perversity and cruelty of men will reach such a height that God will reveal Himself in His majesty. Very soon the wickedness of the world will have reached its limit, and as in the days of Noah, God will pour out His judgments.

When Wickedness is at its Height, God Will Be Close to Our Side.- “But even when wickedness is at its height, we may know that our Helper is close by our side.” Letter 250, 1903, pgs 3-4. (To J. E. White, Nov-ember 16, 1903).

It Will Become Very Hard for Adventists to Remain in Cities. - “Conditions are arising in the cities that will make it very hard for those of our faith to remain in them. It would therefore be a great mistake to invest money in the establishment of business interests in the cities. The cities will become worse and worse. In them will be strife and bloodshed, and at last they will be visited by earthquakes. Buildings will be thrown down and will be consumed by fire from heaven.”

IMAGE OF THE BEAST

It Will Appear as Though Infernal Government Has Been Transferred From Hell to Earth. - “The two classes which are formed to enact the solemnities of the last days will be distinguished as [the] commandment-keeping people of God and commandment-breakers, who are inspired by the devil and his angels. The appearance is as if the infernal government had been transferred from hell to earth.”-Letter 60, 1893, p. 2. (To I. D. Van Horn, July 20, 1893). [See also-TMK 346.]

Spiritual Fornication by Trampling on God’s Commandments, God’s People Remain Faithful to Him, Even If It Means Death. - “Babylon is represented as holding a wine cup in her hand, from which she makes all nations drink. The nations commit spiritual fornication by divorcing themselves from God and trampling on His commandments. But there are some who remain true to their allegiance to Jehovah. John beholds the loyal people of God, and he exclaims, ‘Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God and the -faith of Jesus.’ (Revelation 14:12). The time in which the saints live is a trying one for those who refuse to receive the mark of the beast, but through it all the saints show their patience. They continue steadfast in the faith, even should their firmness cost them their lives.” -Manuscript 16, 1899, pp. 1-6, 10-11. (The Word for This Time,” February 20, 1900).

SEEK TO PREVENT NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW

Danger of a Laissez-faire Attitude Toward the Sunday Issue - “There are many who are at ease, who are, as it were, asleep. They say, ‘If prophecy has foretold the enforcement of Sunday observance, the law will surely be enacted,’ and having come to this conclusion, they sit down in a calm expectation of the event, comforting themselves with the thought that God will protect His people in the day of trouble. But God will not save us, if we make no effort to do the work He has committed to our charge. We must be found faithfully vigilant soldiers, lest Satan shall gain an advantage, which it is our duty to prevent.” –Manuscript 18, 1888, pp.2, 3, 5-19, 13. (Religious Liberty, n.d. Portions appeared in the Review and Herald, Extra, December 24, 1889). [See also EV pp. 198; 3SM pp. 388-389.]

Those Remaining in the Cities Will Be Expected to Observe Holidays. - “The cities must be worked. Those who are living in them must be warned of what is before us. Let time and means be wisely spent. See if you cannot do something in the highways and byways of the cities to proclaim the message of present truth, but do not locate your families in the city, and do not establish business interests there. If you do this, you will in the future be expected to conform to the observance of various holidays. Watchers will be set to seek occasion of complaint against the commandment-keeping people of God. Satan will exercise his power and enmity, and oppression will be the result. The larger the city, the greater will be the oppression.”Manuscript 76, 1905, pp. 2-5. (“The Work in Melbourne, [Australia],” June 29, 1905). [See also: CG 6667; CL 12-13, 29; PM 185-186; 2SM 355, 357.]

Unless God Positively Opens the Way, Means Are Not to be Invested in Building in the Cities.- “Some time after this, I was shown that the vision of the buildings in Chicago and the draft upon the means of our people to erect them and their destruction, was an object lesson for our people, warning them not to invest largely of their means in property in Chicago or any other city, unless the providence of God should positively open the way and plainly point out duty to build or buy, as necessary, in giving the note of warning. A similar caution was given in regard to building in Los Angeles. Repeatedly I have been instructed that we must not invest means in the erection of expensive buildings in cities.” -Manuscript 33, 1906, pp. 2, 3, 5, 6, (The Chicago Work, March 20, 1906). [See also: MM 304-6.]

Scientifically Constructed Buildings, Supposedly Destruction-proof, Will Suffer the Fate of the Temple.-“Men will continue to erect expensive buildings, costing millions of money. Special attention will be called to their architectural beauty and firmness, and [the] solidity with which they are constructed, but the Lord has instructed men that despite the unusual firmness and expensive display, these buildings will share the fate of the temple in Jerusalem.

“I am instructed to declare the message that the cities, full of transgression and sinful in the extreme, will be destroyed by earthquakes, by fire, by flood. All the world will be warned that there is a God who will display His authority as God. His unseen agencies will cause destruction, devastation, and death. All the accumulated riches will be as nothingness. Notwithstanding the scientific care with which men safeguard buildings from destruction, one touch of the great and rightful Ruler will bring to nothingness the idolatrous possessions that have been laid up in a sightly and magnificent display. The devices of men will come to naught.” Manuscript 35, 1906, pp. 5, 8-11. (The Judgments of God, copied, April 27, 1906). [See also: 7BC 20, 33, 219; Evangelism 27.]

God’s Punishment of Transgressors Will be Progressively Severe. - “The Lord will not suddenly cast off all transgressors and destroy entire nations, but He will punish cities and places where men have given themselves up to the possession of satanic agencies. Strictly will the cities of the nations be dealt with, and yet they will not be visited in the extreme of God’s indignation, because some souls will yet break away from the delusions of the enemy, and will repent and be converted, while the masses of the people will be treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath.” -Manuscript 35, 1906, pp. 5, 8-11. (The Judgments of God, copied April 27, 1906). [See also: 7BC 20, 33, 219; Evangelism 27.]

Cities Will be Destroyed by Earthquake, Fire, Flood, and Lightening.-”In the future cities will certainly feel the terrible results of earthquakes and fires. Cities will be destroyed by flood and by lightning. [Get] Out of the cities, is my message at this time.”

Locate Our Institutions Miles Away from Large Cities. - “Be assured that the call is for our people to locate miles away from the large cities. .Do not establish institutions in the cities, but seek a rural location. The call is, ‘Come out from among them, and be ye separate’ (2 Corinthians 6:17). The very atmosphere of the cities is polluted. Let your schools be established away from the cities, where agricultural and other industries can be carried on.

When a City Is Destroyed, Do not Relocate in that City.- “The Lord calls for His people to locate away from the cities, for in such an hour as ye think not, fire and brimstone will be rained from heaven upon these cities. Proportionate to their sins will be their visitation. When one city is destroyed, let not our people regard this matter as a light affair and think that they may, if favorable opportunity offers, build themselves homes in that same destroyed city.” -Letter 158, 1906, pp. 1-4 (To Dr. H. Kress and wife, May 10, 1906).

Earthquakes Like the San Francisco Quake Will Be Repeated Elsewhere. “As we near the close of this earth’s history, we shall see the scenes of the San Francisco calamity repeated in other places..

Iniquity of the most Revolting Character Is Practiced in the Cities.- “These things make me feel very solemn, because I know that the judgment day is right upon us. The judgments that have already come are a warning, but not the finishing of the punishment that will come on wicked cities. Our cities are most terrible places, wherein are practiced all kinds of sin and iniquity of the most revolting character. The Lord’s name is greatly dishonored.” -Letter 154, 1906, pp. 3-7. (To J. E. White and wife, May 12, 1906).

The Judgments of God Will Fall.- “The judgments of God will certainly fall upon all transgressors. The terrible earthquake that has visited San Francisco will be followed by other manifestations of the power of God. His law has been transgressed. Cities have become polluted with sin.” - Manuscript 61 a, 1906, pp. 1,3. (“God’s Judgments on the Cities, “ June 3, 1906).

A Sample of the Future. -God is permitting those things to be brought to light that he who reads may run. The city of San Francisco is a sample of what the whole world is becoming. The wicked bribery, the misap-propriation of means, the fraudulent transactions among men who have power to release the guilty and condemn the innocent-all this iniquity is filling other large cities of the earth, and is making the world as it was in the days that were before the flood.” – Letter 230, 1907, pp. 2-3. (To J. E. White and wife, July 22, 1907). [See also: 7BC 228-9; SD 228.]

Secure Places in Retired Country Regions for Sanitariums and Schools, because Cities Are Becoming Increasingly Corrupt, and Travel Will Become Increasingly Dangerous. - “Christ is soon coming, and Satan knows that his time is short. As we draw near to the close of time, the cities will become more and more corrupt, and more and more objectionable as places for establishing centers of our work. The dangers of travel will increase, confusion and drunkenness will abound; and, if there can be found places in retired mountain regions, where it would be difficult for the evils of the cities to enter, let our people secure such places for our sanitariums and advanced schools..

The Earth Is becoming Corrupt; Religious Liberty Will be Little Respected. ”In the days before the flood, every kind of amusement was invented to lead men and women to forgetfulness and sin. Today, Satan is working with intensity, that the same conditions of evil shall prevail, and the earth is becoming corrupt. Religious liberty will be little respected by professing Christians, for many of them have no understanding of spiritual things..

Some Must Remain in the Cities to Give Our Message, but to Do so Will Become Increasingly Dangerous. - “At such a time as this, the people who are seeking to keep the commandments of God should look for retired places away from the cities. Some must remain in the cities to give the last note of warning, but this will become more and more dangerous.

Moving to the Hills and Mountains Should Not Be Considered A Great Deprivation.- “Do not consider it a great deprivation that you must go into the hills and mountains, but seek for that retirement where you can be alone with God, to learn His will and way..

Spiritual Advantages of Living in the Country. - “Do not consider it a privation when you are called to leave the cities and move out into country places. Here there await rich blessing for those who will grasp them. By beholding the scenes of nature, the works of the Creator, by studying God’s handiwork, imperceptibly you will be changed into the same image.” -Manuscript 85, 1908, pp. 1-5. (“Cooperation Between Schools and Sanitariums,” June 30, 1908). [See also: CL 13-14; SD 127; 2SM 355-356.]

LABOR UNIONS

Revelation 18 Shows How Completely Earthly Powers Will Give Themselves Over to Evil. - “This terrible picture [Revelation 18:1-8], drawn by John to show how completely the powers of earth will give them-selves over to evil, should show those who have received the truth how dangerous it is to link up with secret societies or to join themselves in any way with those who do not keep God’s commandments.”-Manuscript 135, 1902, pp. 3-6, 9. (“Instruction to the Church,” October 31, 1902). [See also: 7BC 424,429; UL 318.]

If We Join Trusts and Unions We shall Become Like the World.- “The wicked are being bound up in bundles, bound up in trusts, in unions, in confederacies. Let us have nothing to do with these organizations. God is our Ruler, our Governor, and He calls us to come out from the world and be separate.” -Manuscript 71, 1903, pp. 4, 5, 12. (“To Every Man His Work,” a talk to the California Medical Missionary and Benevolent Association, June 18, 1903).

BINDING INTO BUNDLES

Everyone Will Reveal The Character He is Developing.-”As character develops, men and women will take their positions; for varied circumstances brought to bear upon them will cause them to reveal the spirit which prompts them to action. Everyone will reveal the character of the bundle with which he is binding himself. The wheat is being bound up for the heavenly garner. . The true people of God are now pulling apart, and the tares are being bound in bundles to [be] burn[ed]. Decided positions will be taken.” Letter 12, 1892. pp. 3, 9, 10. (To S. N. Haskell, August 22, 1892). [See a/so-7ABC 356-357; AH 472-473, 476; WM 76. 105, 166.]

The False Latter Rain

About 4350 years ago, the wicked confederated together to build the tower of Babel and impose their rule on the world. If permitted to fully carry out their purposes, they would have blotted the people of God from the earth, and Satan’s triumph would have been complete.

But now, in the near future, a similar objective will be in mind. In the name of Christianity, men will unify to require -first a nation and then a world -to break the fourth of God’s ten moral laws.

As they coerce U.S. governmental leaders to enact a national Sunday law, the excitement in the fallen churches will intensify into a false latter rain. Because men are willing to more daringly defy God’s laws, Satan will be permitted to work wonders. A counterfeit revival will precede the genuine. That counterfeit revival, discussed in the first video in this series, brings on the national Sunday law. But that counterfeit revival will continue on afterward. For purposes of clarification, we will call its extension past the national Sunday law, the “false latter rain.” (You will find both names mentioned in the Spirit of Prophecy, and she treats them as synonyms, not making the time distinction that we here do.)

After the national Sunday law is passed, the latter rain begins, and both the true and false rain will continue on concurrently together thereafter.

Satan will work miracles through his agents, and he will personate (appear as) Christ to the masses, work apparent miracles, endorse Sunday, and denounce Sabbath keepers.

These spiritual manifestations by Satan and his agents are extremely important in the rapid working out of final events in the Sunday law crisis prior to the general close of probation.

Without them, the intense zeal for strictest national -and later universal -Sunday law enforcement could never take place. Yet it will be Sunday enactment in the United States which will have empowered Satan to begin demonstrating such wonders.

Those final events, once begun, will follow one another rapidly.

Just below we will list a suggested order of early events in the Sunday law enactment. You will note that, along with hatred of Sabbath keepers, the religious excitement/false latter rain fervor is the engine driving forward the fierce passions of the Sunday-law advocates, both before and after the national Sunday law is enacted. Let us briefly overview some of the early events in the national Sunday law crisis:

A powerful RELIGIOUS EXCITEMENT, or counterfeit revival, starts In the churches, which energizes Protestants, Catholics, and spiritualists to work together, yet without disturbing any denominational organizational leadership controls, which are already in place.

A tentative THREEFOLD UNION of influential Protestants, Catholics, and Spiritualists begins to take shape. Hatred of Sabbath keepers impels the churches to search for ways by which to push the U.S. government into enacting sweeping Sunday enforcements.

This threefold union quickly forms. Catholicism brings to the union the doctrine of Sunday sacredness enforced by civil power, and provides its full backing. Protestantism brings to it the driving leadership that coerces the government to legislate and enforce it. For its part, Spiritualism provides the hypnotic and miracle-working power needed to carry the movement through to success.

The NATIONAL SUNDAY LAW is enacted by the United States government. Initial passage of the law is done for political reasons, in order to win favor with the churches. At this point, the full power and extent of the Sunday law movement is yet future.

The FALSE LATTER RAIN begins. By their heaven-daring willingness to try and enact laws to overthrow those which God has given, Satan is permitted by Heaven to more directly empower the efforts of the threefold union to win the favor of all sides to the endeavor.

SPIRITS OF DEMONS bring CONVERSIONS TO THE MOVEMENT throughout the world as devils, working with men, promote the bold, new solution to world problems. America, first, and Europe, second, will take the lead, and the rest of the world will follow. It is the amazing power underlying this movement that rivets the attention of the other nations, and finally converts them to the Sunday-law bandwagon.

Enactment of the national Sunday law In America has opened the way for SATANIC MIRACLES, HEALINGS, AND APPEARANCES on a wonder-working scale never before witnessed by human eyes. The power of the false latter rain swells immensely.

These miracles change politicians, churchmen, and laymen INTO RELIGIOUS ZEALOTS, determined to enforce Sunday keeping by whatever penalties are required, even if they include imprisonment and death. Nearly all are swept into the ranks; although, before the loud cry begins, the great majority do not yet understand the issues involved.

Before passage of the law, there was only a religious excitement in the churches stirring them to a threefold union. At their behest, the law was enacted by politicians merely as a political favor. But, after the law is enacted, the marvelous working of Satan is unleashed to an astounding degree. Deceived minds now see the law in a new light; it has become the basis of a great, new world order, ushering in a millennium of peace and prosperity. Strictest enforcement of Sunday sacredness surely must be all that is needed to bring universal peace and prosperity and the approval of God. That, apparently, is the only real sacrifice He asks of them; the gluttony, worldliness, and selfishness can continue as usual. The theologians declare that Heaven accepts the people just as they are, and they need not put away their sins.

Enactment of the law places the nation in the hands of Satan, and he is permitted to work more openly. The wonders which follow galvanize, first America, and then, the entire world.

The final crisis has come.

Let us now view the effect this false latter rain will have on, first, America, and then on the rest of the world:

WHEN THE FALSE LATTER RAIN WILL OCCUR

1 - Sequence: According to Patriarchs and Prophets, 686, this special working of Satan will occur prior to the Second Advent.

“Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, points to the special working of Satan in spiritualism as an event to take place immediately before the second advent of Christ.

Speaking of Christ’s second coming, he declares that it is ‘after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders.’ 2 Thessalonians 2:9.”-Patriarchs and Prophets, 686:1.

2 - Sequence: According to Early Writings,261, Satan will begin by raising an excitement in the fallen churches before the loud cry begins. (In a later study, we will learn that the loud cry begins just after the law is enacted.)

“I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallen churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be called out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this; and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in these religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with them. He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God is still working for the churches.”Early Writings. 261:1.

As we earlier learned, this excitement, or counterfeit revival, will lead both to the threefold union and coercion of Congress into enacting the national Sunday law. It will be this strange excitement which will produce both the threefold union, and, through it, powerfully coerce Congress into passing the national Sunday law.

But the excitement will not cease with enactment of the law -it will intensify! Passage of that law will permit Satan to exhibit devilish wonders which are astounding.

So Satan will be working both before and after the law, but especially so after it is passed. We must give a name to this: First, his heightened activity, which leads to the threefold union and the national Sunday law, -we will call the “Satanic excitement” or “counterfeit revival.” Second, the continuation -and mammoth deepening of that excitement into a full blown working of wonders after enactment of the law -we will call it “Satanic wonders” “the false latter rain,” or “the counterfeit latter rain.”

This present study is about this false latter rain, and the Satanic wonders which will intensify after enactment of the national Sunday law.

3 - Sequence: According to 5 Testimonies, 451, first will come the threefold union, then the enactment of the national Sunday law, then the marvelous working of Satan.

“By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near.” -5 Testimonies, 451:1.

In the above quotation we are given a promised sign (“the end is near”) warning us to begin moving to more retired places; cf. Great Controversy, page 30:2-31:O.

According to Early Writings 261:1 Satan will raise an excitement before the national Sunday law.

According to 5T 451:1, the national Sunday law will open the door for marvelous workings by Satan. Although a Satanically-inspired excitement in the churches will bring passage of the national Sunday law, yet-once that law is enacted -a fantastic miracle-working power by Satan will be unleashed. That immense post-Sunday law miracle working power is the subject of this chapter.

4 – Sequence - As we have earlier learned, according to Great Controversy, 464, Satan’s counterfeit revival will precede the latter rain upon God’s people. The faithful who understand the issues, who have not earlier done so, will separate from the fallen churches when the true latter rain begins falling.

“Before the final visitation of God’s judgments upon the earth, there will be, among the people of the Lord, such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children. At that time many will separate themselves from those churches in which the love of this world has supplanted love for God and His word. Many, both of ministers and people, will gladly accept those great truths which God has caused to be proclaimed at this time, to prepare a people for the Lord’s second coming. The enemy of souls desires to hinder this work; and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it, by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches which he can bring under his deceptive power, he will make it appear that God’s special blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great religious interest. Multitudes will ex-ult that God is working marvelously for them, when the work is that of another spirit. Under a religious guise, Satan will seek to extend his influence over the Christian world.” -Great Controversy, 464:1.

SATAN WANTS TO OVERCOME EVERYONE

1 - Satan’s objective is to lead and control every Christian in the world.

“We are approaching the end of this earth’s history, and Satan is working as never before. He is striving to act as director of the Christian world. With an intensity that is marvelous he is working with his lying wonders. Satan is represented as walking about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. He desires to embrace the whole world in his confederacy.“ - 8 Manuscript Releases, 346:1 (1901).

2 - He wants to deceive and overpower all the faithful.

“The Word of God declares that when it suits the enemy’s purpose, he will through his agencies manifest so great a power under a pretense of Christianity that, ‘If It were possible, they shall deceive the very elect’ [Matthew 24:24].”Manuscript, 125, 1901.

“As the spirits will profess faith in the Bible and manifest respect for the Institutions of the church, their work will be accepted as a manifestation of divine power.” -Great Controversy 588:2.

3 - There will be an emotional excitement, a mingling of the true with the false -which will captivate all but those grounded in Scripture.

“In many of the revivals which have occurred during the last half century, the same influences have been at work, to a greater or less degree, that will be manifest in the more extensive movements of the future. There is an emotional excitement, 8 mingling of the true with the false, that is well adapted to mislead. Yet none need be deceived. In the light of God’s word it is not difficult to determine the nature of these movements. Wherever men neglect the testimony of the Bible, turning away from those plain, soul-testing truths which require self-denial and renunciation of the world, there we may be sure that God’s blessing is not bestowed. And by the rule which Christ Himself has given, ‘Ye shall know them by their fruits,’ it is evident that these movements are not the work of the Spirit of God.” Great Controversy, 464:2-465:O.

4 - Pray that you will be able to distinguish Satan’s miracle-working power from divine power.

“Go to God for yourselves, pray for divine enlightenment, that you may know that you do know what is truth, that when the wonderful miracle-working power shall be displayed, and the enemy shall come as an angel of light, you may distinguish between the genuine work of God and the imitative work of the powers of darkness.” -3 Selected Messages, 389:4.

FALSE TEACHINGS WILL BE TAUGHT

1 - Spirits of devils will declare the Sabbath to have been changed.

“The saints must get a thorough understanding of present truth, which they will be obliged to maintain from the Scriptures. They must understand the state of the dead, for the spirits of devils will yet appear to them, professing to be beloved friends and relatives, who will declare to them that the Sabbath has been changed, also other unscriptural doctrines.” -Early Writings, 87.’2.

2 - The lying spirits will contradict Scripture.

“The apostles, as personated by these lying spirits, are made to contradict what they wrote at the dictation of the Holy Spirit when on earth. They deny the divine origin of the Bible.” Great Controversy, 557.’1.

3 - Satan will use two special doctrinal errors to capture the people.

“Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the foundation of spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome.” Great Controversy, 588:1.

THE SPIRITS WILL DEMAND SUNDAY KEEPING

1 - The spirits will speak for Sunday sacredness, against the Sabbath and Sabbath keepers, and declare that the laws of the land should be obeyed.

“The miracle-working power manifested through Spiritualism will exert its influence against those who choose to obey God rather than men. Communications from the spirits will declare that God has sent them to convince the rejecters of Sunday of their error, affirming that the laws of the land should be obeyed as the law of God.

They will lament the great wickedness in the world, and second the testimony of religious teachers, that the degraded state of morals is caused by the desecration of Sunday. Great will be the indignation excited against all who refuse to accept their testimony.” -Great Controversy, 590:2-591:O.

SATAN WILL CALL GOD’S PEOPLE LAW BREAKERS

1 - God’s people will be called lawbreakers.

“While Satan seeks to destroy those who honor God’s law, he will cause them to be accused as lawbreakers, as men who are dishonoring God, and bringing judgments upon the world.” Great Controversy, 591:1.

2 - They will be accused as anarchists (against government rule), traitors, and opposed to law and morality.

“Those who honor the Bible Sabbath will be denounced as enemies of law and order, as breaking down the moral restraints of society, causing anarchy and corruption, and calling down the judgments of God upon the earth. Their conscientious scruples will be pronounced obstinacy, stubbornness, and contempt of authority. They will be accused of disaffection toward the government. Ministers who deny the obligation of the divine law will present from the pulpit the duty of yielding obedience to the civil authorities as or-dained of God. In legislative halls and courts of justice, commandment keepers will be misrepresented and condemned. A false coloring will be given to their words; the worst construction will be put upon their motives.” -Great Controversy, 592:1.

FANATICISM WILL OCCUR

1 - There will be shouting, drums, music, and dancing.

“The things you have described as taking place in Indiana, the Lord has shown me would take place just before the close of probation. Every uncouth thing will be demonstrated. There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The senses of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions.

2 - Men will engage in strange activities, and call them the work of God.

“Let us give no place to strange exercising, which really take the mind away from the deep moving of the Holy Spirit. God’s work is ever characterized by calmness and dignity.” - 2 Selected Messages, 1,.2:1,..

3 - Fanaticism, tongues, and noise will be termed special gifts of God.

“Fanaticism, false excitement, false talking In tongues, and noisy exercises have been considered gifts which God has placed in the church. Some have been deceived here. The fruits of all this have not been good, ‘Ye shall know them by their fruits: Fanaticism and noise have been considered special evidences of faith. Some are not satisfied with a meeting unless they have a powerful and happy time, They work for this and get up an excitement of feeling. But the influence of such meetings is not beneficial. When the happy flight of feeling is gone they sink lower than before the meeting because their happiness did not come from the right source,”-1 Testimonies, 1,.12:1.

MIRACLES WILL BE SEEN

1 - Through deception, Satan will produce apparent miracles. They are appearances, which have no reality in fact.

“Satan can, through a species of deceptions, perform wonders that will appear to be genuine miracles. It was this he hoped to make a test question with the Israelites at the time of their deliverance from Egypt.” - 2 Selected Messages, 52:4.

2 - Satan will use miracles to demonstrate his power.

“The way in which Christ worked was to preach the Word, and to relieve suffering by miraculous works of healing. But I am instructed that we cannot now work in this way, for Satan will exercise his power by working miracles. God’s servants today could not work by means of miracles, because spurious works of healing, claiming to be divine, will be wrought.” - 2 Selected Messages, 54:2.

3 - Satan will be able to counterfeit those miracles done by God’s people. A counterfeit is not the reality, but it appears so.

“God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought.” -9 Testimonies, 16:1.

4 - Miracle-working power by the disobedient - only proves their connection to Satan. We can know this, because God’s true followers are obedient to his laws.

“If those through whom cures are performed are disposed, on account of these manifestations, to excuse their neglect of the law of God and continue in disobedience, though they have power to any and every extent, It does not follow that they have the great power of God. On the contrary, it is the miracle-working power of the great deceiver.” -2 Selected Messages, 50:4.-51:O,

5 - The truths of the Bible are of greater importance than miracles performed in your sight. Never forget that.

“The Bible will never be superseded by miraculous manifestations. The truth must be studied; it must be searched for as hidden treasure. Wonderful illuminations will not be given aside from the Word or to take the place of it. Cling to the Word, receive the engrafted Word which will make men wise unto salvation.”-2 Selected Messages, 48:2.

6 - Only by Scripture will we be able to correctly identify the counterfeit when it appears.

“The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested.” -Great Con-troversy, 593:1.

7 - The people of God will not be misled when the time comes for the wondrous delusions of Satan to be manifest.

“Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world’s Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing, and will profess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures...

“But the people of God will not be misled. The teachings of this false christ are not in accordance with the Scriptures. His blessing is pronounced upon the worshipers of the beast and his image, the very class upon whom the Bible declares that God’s unmingled wrath shall be poured out.”-Great Controversy, 624:1, 625:1.

DEMONS WILL APPEAR AS MEN

1 - Miracles and healings will occur, and Satan will appear as an angel. The spirits will respect the institutions of the churches.

Because the devils are not concerned about corruption in organizational leaders, structures, committees, and their activities, they will be welcomed for the power they bring, where otherwise they might have been feared and shunned by church, business, and political leaders.

“As Spiritualism more closely imitates the nominal Christianity of the day, it has greater power to deceive and ensnare. Satan himself is converted, after the modern order of things.

He will appear in the character of an angel of light. Through the agency of Spiritualism, miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and many undeniable wonders will be performed. And as the spirits will profess faith in the Bible, and manifest respect for the Institutions of the church, their work will be accepted as a manifestation of divine power.” -Great Controversy, 588:2.

2 - Healings and miracles will be performed in the presence of God’s people in order to counteract their message before others and, hopefully, to overcome them.

“The sick will be healed before us. Miracles will be performed in our sight. Are we prepared for the trial which awaits us when the lying wonders of Satan shall be more fully exhibited?” -1 Testimonies, 302:2.

3 - Agents of Satan will “by casting a spell” bring sickness upon people, and then work an apparent miracle by removing it.

“Men under the Influence of evil spirits will work miracles. They will make people sick by casting their spell upon them, and will then remove the spell, leading others to say that those who were sick have been miraculously healed. This Satan has done again and again.” - 2 Selected Messages, 53:2.

“Wonderful scenes, with which Satan will be closely connected, will soon take place. God’s Word declares that Satan will work miracles. He will make people sick, and then will suddenly remove from them his satanic power. They will then be regarded as healed. These works of apparent healing will bring Seventh-day Adventists to the test.” - 2 Selected Messages, 53:3.

4 - Devils will appear in human form and appear to be living people.

“Satan will use every opportunity to seduce men from their allegiance to God. He and the angels who fell with him will appear on the earth as men, seeking to deceive. God’s angels also will appear as men, and will use every means in their power to defeat the purposes of the enemy.” - 8 Manuscript Releases, 399 (1903).

5 - These demons will converse with God’s people, and will try to convince others that God’s people have a wrong message and a wrong faith.

“Evil angels in the form of men will talk with those who know the truth. They will misinterpret and misconstrue the statements of the messengers of God. Have Seventh-day Adventists forgotten the warning given in the sixth chapter of Ephesians? We are engaged in a warfare against the hosts of darkness. Unless we follow our Leader closely, Satan will obtain the victory over us.”-3 Selected Messages, 411:1-2.

6 - Devils in human form will even become workers in our denomination, and will speak in our meetings. We will be able to identify those who might be such spirits, because they will urge our people to disbelief of our historic message. (The following statement indicates that is a present-not a future-event!)

“Evil angels in the form of believers will work in our ranks to bring in a strong spirit of unbelief. Let not even this discourage you, but bring a true heart to the help of the Lord against the powers of satanic agencies. These powers of evil will assemble in our meetings, not to receive a blessing, but to counterwork the influences of the Spirit of God.”-2 Mind, Character, and Personality, 504:3 -505:O.

7 - Satan will use all conceivable methods to ruin God’s people -for he already controls so many others in the world.

“There is now need of earnest, working men and women who will seek for the salvation of souls, for Satan as a powerful general has taken the field, and in this last remnant of time he is working through all conceivable methods to close the door against light that God would have come to His people. He is sweeping the whole world into his ranks, and the few who are faithful to God’s requirements are the only ones who can ever withstand him, and even these he is trying to overcome.” -3 Selected Messages, 389:3..

8 - Spirits of devils, and their human agents, will work to convert leaders and people throughout the world to the grand new movement. They will perform healing miracles and say they have divine revelations.

“Fearful sights of a supernatural character will soon be revealed in the heavens, in token of the power of miracle-working demons. The spirits of devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fasten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last struggle against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world’s Redeemer.

They will perform wonderful miracles of healing, and will profess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures.” - Great Controversy, 624:1.

9 - Spirits of devils will teach heresies and work miracles.

“Many will be confronted by the spirits of devils personating beloved relatives or friends, and declaring the most dangerous heresies. These visitants will appeal to our tenderest sympathies, and will work miracles to sustain their pretensions. We must be prepared to withstand them with the Bible truth that the dead know not anything, and that they who thus appear are the spirits of devils.”-Great Controversy, 560:1.

10 - The world is already teetering on the brink of wholesale perversion and apostasy. By accepting spiritualism and spiritualist teachings, the world will have its morality destroyed.

“As the teachings of spiritualism are accepted by the churches, the restraint imposed upon the carnal heart is removed, and the profession of religion will become a cloak to conceal the basest Iniquity. A belief in spiritual manifestations opens the door to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils and thus the influence of evil angels will be felt in the churches.” - Great Controversy, 603:2-604:O.

11 - The churches will not be able to withstand the inroads of spiritualism. (This would be because of their acceptance of innate, unconditional immortality.)

“The popular ministry cannot successfully resist spiritualism. They have nothing wherewith to shield their flocks from its baleful influence. Much of the sad result of spiritualism will rest upon ministers of this age; for they have trampled the truth under their feet, and in its stead have preferred fables.”- 1 Testimonies, 344:1.

THE DEAD WILL APPARENTLY APPEAR

1 - Devils will personate departed saints and sinners, so that they will appear to have returned from the dead.

“It is not difficult for the evil angels to represent both saints and sinners who have died, and make these representations visible to human eyes. These manifestations will be more frequent, and developments of a more startling character will appear as we near the close of time.” Evangelism, 604:3.

“It is Satan’s most successful and fascinating delusion - one calculated to take hold of the sympathies of those who have laid their loved ones in the grave. Evil angels come in the form of those loved ones and

relate incidents connected with their lives, and perform acts which they performed while living. In this way they lead persons to believe that their dead friends are angels, hovering over them and communicating with them. These evil angels, who assume to be the deceased friends, are regarded with a certain idolatry, and with many their word has greater weight than the Word of God.” -Last Day Events, 161:3.

2 - Devils will come in the form of departed loved ones - in order to deceive people. Satan has power to bring before men the appearance of their departed friends. The counterfeit is perfect; the familiar look, the words, the tone, are reproduced with marvelous distinctness.

“Many will be confronted by the spirits of devils personating beloved relatives or friends and declaring the most dangerous heresies. These visitants will appeal to our tenderest sympathies and will work miracles to sustain their pretensions.”-Story of Redemption, 398:1.

3 - Through these appearances, Satan will captivate and paralyze the thinking of many religious, professional, and political leaders. He will then use them to deceive still others.

“The forms of the dead will appear, through the cunning device of Satan, and many will link up with the one who loves and makes a lie. I warn our people that right among us some will turn away from the faith and give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils and by them the truth will be evil spoken of.

“A marvelous work shall take place. Ministers, lawyers, doctors, who have permitted these falsehoods to overmaster their spirit of discernment, will be themselves deceivers, united with the deceived. A spiritual drunkenness will take possession of them.” - Upward Look, 317:5.

HEATHEN DEITIES WILL APPEAR AS INCARNATE

1 - Well-known heathen deities (Buddha, Mohammed, Tao, local devil gods, etc.) will appear to have returned to our world. They will exhibit great power. (We can be sure that such appearances will be used to advocate Sunday keeping, and will powerfully open the non-Christian nations to the counterfeit latter rain that is spreading across the world.)

“As we near the close of time, there will be greater and still greater external parade of heathen power; heathen deities will manifest their signal power, and will exhibit themselves before the cities of the world; and this delineation has already begun to be fulfilled.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 117:5-118:O.

SATAN PROMISES A MILLENNIUM OF HAPPINESS

1 - As the excitement heightens to fever pitch, it will be declared that the entire world is about to be converted, and the long-promised millennium of happiness is about to begin.

“Papists, Protestants, and wordings will alike accept the form of godliness without the power, and they will see in this union a grand movement for the conversion of the world, and the ushering in of the long-expected millennium.” -Great Controversy 588:3-589:O.

SATAN WILL BRING TERRIBLE DISASTERS

1 - Through Spiritualism, Satan will appear as a healer with a better system of religion; while at the same time he Is destroying lives through intemperance, and warfare; as well as through natural disasters which he has power to cause.

“Through Spiritualism Satan appears as a benefactor of the race, healing the diseases of the people, and professing to present a new and more exalted system of religious faith; but at the same time he works as a destroyer. His temptations are leading multitudes to ruin. Intemperance dethrones reason; sensual Indulgence, strife, and bloodshed follow. Satan delights in war; for it excites the worst passions of the soul, and then sweeps into eternity its victims steeped in vice and blood. It is his object to incite the nations to war against one another; for he can thus divert the minds of the people from the work of preparation to stand in the day of God.

“Satan works through the elements also to garner his harvest of unprepared souls. He has studied the secrets of the laboratories of nature, and he uses all his power to control the elements as far as God allows. When he was suffered to afflict Job, how quickly flocks and herds, servants, houses, children, were swept away, one trouble succeeding another as in a moment. It is God that shields His creatures, and hedges them in from the power of the destroyer. But the Christian world have shown contempt for the law of Jehovah; and the Lord will do just what He has declared that He would, -He will withdraw His blessings from the earth, and remove His protecting care from those who are rebelling against His law and teaching and forcing others to do the same. Satan has control of all whom God does not especially guard. He will favor and prosper some, in order to further his own designs; and he will bring trouble upon others, and lead men to believe that it is God who is afflicting them.” Great Controversy, 589:1-2.

2 - At the same time that Satan is appearing among men as a great healer, he is bringing terrible disasters - so serious that large cities are being destroyed.

“While appearing to the children of men as a great physician who can heal all their maladies, he will bring disease and disaster, until populous cities are reduced to ruin and desolation.” -Great Controversy, 589:3.

3 - In all of this, Satan’s objective is to blame the commandment-keeping people of God as the cause of the disasters.

“And then the great deceiver will persuade men that those who serve God are causing these evils. The class that have provoked the displeasure of Heaven will charge all their troubles upon those whose obedience to God’s commandments is a perpetual reproof to transgressors. It will be declared that men are offending God by the violation of the Sunday-Sabbath; that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced; and that those who present the claims of the fourth com-mandment, thus destroying reverence for Sunday, are troublers of the people, preventing their restoration to divine favor and temporal prosperity.”-Great Controversy, 590:1.

SATAN WILL PERSONATE CHRIST

There are two mentions in Great Controversy of Satan’s appearance as a counterfeit Christ. It is significant that each mention of these appearances speaks of Satan’s appeals to the people to hallow Sunday. Such appeals would more fittingly be given before probation closes, while men and women are still making their decision. However, in Great Controversy, it would appear that his personations are mentioned both before and after the general close of probation (Great Controversy, page 561-562 and 624-625) Thus it seems certain that some of these almost overmastering appearances will occur BEFORE probation ends - during the time of the marking, sealing, and loud cry. (Later in this study, we will analyze the second passage [Great Controversy, page 624-625] in greater detail.)

The quotations indicate that the appearance of Satan occurs after the U.S. national Sunday law, and before all the rest of the world has enacted it. It appears that Satan’s personal appearances will help convince the non-Christian nations to unite in the fevered Sunday-law excitement that first gripped America, and then Europe. The sequence would be as follows:

(1) The threefold union begins forming; (2) the national Sunday law is enacted; (3) the marvelous working of Satan begins, culminating in the appearance of Satan as an angel of light who claims to be Christ. (4) Astonished at these occurrences (including the appearance of pagan non-Christian deities), other nations pass national Sunday laws.

Satan’s personation as Christ, along with satanic miracle working by his agents, will raise the enthusiasm about the Sunday law to a frenzy, -and carry that emotional high pitch into all other nations of earth, leading them to enact their own national Sunday laws.

The following quotations in addition, reveal that, when Satan personates, he will appear as a glorious angel claiming to be Christ -not as a mere man claiming to be Christ.

1 - Sequence: According to 5 Testimonies, 451, first will come the threefold union, then the national Sunday law, and then the marvelous working of Satan.

“By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near.” -5 Testimonies,451:1.

2 - Sequence: According to Testimonies to Ministers, 62, first is the appearance of Satan, and then the law of God will be made void throughout all nations.

“In this age antichrist will appear as the true Christ, and then the law of God will be fully made void in the nations of our world. Rebellion against God’s holy law will be fully ripe. But the true leader of all this rebellion is Satan clothed as an angel of light. Men will be deceived and will exalt him to the place of God, and deify him. But Omnipotence will interpose, and to the apostate churches that unite in the exaltation of Satan, the sentence will go forth, ‘Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire: for strong is the Lord God who judges her’ [Revelation 18:8].”-Testimonies to Ministers, 62:1.

3 - Satan will appear to the Christian world and to those who have not yet decided for Sunday keeping as the returned Christ. He will also appear to Sabbath keepers and pretend to be the returned Christ.

The next quotation indicates that Satan will appear to be Christ near the latter part of the loud cry period as “one last desperate effort” to deceive the entire world. In this crisis their only safety will be in obedience to the Word of God-for Satan’s message will always be one of disobedience to that Word.

“Satan sees that he is about to lose his case. He cannot sweep in the whole world. He makes one last desperate effort to overcome the faithful by deception. He does this in personating Christ. He clothes himself with the garments of royalty which have been accurately described in the vision of John. He has power to do this. He will appear to his deluded followers, the Christian world who received not the love of the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness (transgression of the law), as Christ coming the second time.

“He proclaims himself Christ, and he is believed to be Christ, a beautiful, majestic being clothed with majesty and, with soft voice and pleasant words, with glory unsurpassed by anything their mortal eyes had yet beheld. Then his deceived, deluded followers set up a shout of victory, ‘Christ has come the second time! Christ has come! He has lifted up His hands Just as He did when He was upon the earth, and blessed us.

“The saints look on with amazement. Will they also be deceived? Will they worship Satan? Angels of God are about them. A clear, firm, musical voice is heard, ‘Look up.’

“There was one object before the praying ones -the final and eternal salvation of their souls. This object was before them constantly that immortal life was promised to those who endure unto the end. Oh, how earnest and fervent had been their desires. The judgment and eternity were in view. Their eyes by faith were fixed on the blazing throne, before which the white-robed ones were to stand. This restrained them from the indulgence of sin..

One effort more, and then Satan’s last device is employed. He hears the unceasing cry for Christ to come, for Christ to deliver them. This last strategy Is to personate Christ, and make them think their prayers are answered.” -Last Day Events, 164:1-165:1.

DECEIVE AND CONTROL THE WORLD

1 - One of Satan’ objectives in his appearance is to deceive the Christian world.

Hiding his deformity under the garb of Christianity, he assumes the attributes of a Christian, and claims to be Christ Himself, “-8 Manuscript Releases, 346:1 (1901).

2 - Men will be astounded by Satan’s appearance as Christ. They will deify him. That culminating act of apostasy will be the last step in fully eliminating obedience to God’s law by all but the faithful. Shortly after this the general close of probation will occur, and the plagues will begin falling.

BOTH SATAN AND HIS ANGELS WILL APPEAR

1 - Both Satan and His angels will appear on earth as men, seeking to deceive the world. In that hour of crisis, holy angels will also appear in human form.

“Satan will use every opportunity to seduce men from their allegiance to God. He and the angels who fell with him will appear on the earth as men, seeking to deceive. God’s angels also will appear as men, and will use every means in. their power to defeat the purposes of the enemy,” - 8 Manuscript Releases, 399:1 (1903).

2 - Satan will appear, surrounded by his angels. He will work miracles of all kinds-In the hope of deceiving, not only the world, but God’s people.

“It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended.

They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth, And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12-18. They are to take their stand on the living word: ‘It is written.’ This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely.”-9 Testimonies, 16:1.

4 - This special masterpiece of deception will be taken to the entire world, and will captivate most men.

“The enemy is preparing to deceive the whole world by his miracle-working power. He will assume to personate the angels of light, to personate Jesus Christ.” -2 Selected Messages, 96:1.

“Satan has long been preparing for his final effort to deceive the world. The foundation of his work was laid by the assurance given to Eve in Eden, ‘Ye shall not surely die.’ ‘In the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.’ Little by little he has prepared the way for his masterpiece of deception in the development of Spiritualism. He has not yet reached the full accomplishment of his designs; but it will be reached in the last remnant of time. Says the prophet: ‘I saw three unclean spirits like frogs; they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.’ Except those who are kept by the power of God, through faith in His word, the whole world will be swept into the ranks of this delusion. The people are fast being lulled to a fatal security, to be awakened only by the outpouring of the wrath of God.” - Great Controversy, 561:2-562:O.

5 - The world that has rejected the truth will receive him.

“As the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ draws near, satanic agencies are moved from beneath. Satan will not only appear as a human being, but he will personate Jesus Christ, and the world that has rejected the truth will receive him as the Lord of lords and King of kings.” -5 Bible Commentary, 1105/2:4-1106/1:O.

HE WILL BE AGAINST GOD’S LAW

1 - Disguised as Christ, Satan will speak and do good, but will reveal his true character by turning the people against obedience to God’s law.

“Disguised as an angel of light, he will walk the earth as a wonder-worker. In beautiful language he will present lofty sentiments. Good words will be spoken by him, and good deeds performed. Christ will be personified, but on one paint there will be a marked distinction. Satan will turn the people from the law of God.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 471:3-472:O.

2 - He will declare to men that the Sabbath has been changed to Sunday.

“He will declare that the Sabbath has been changed from the seventh to the first day of the week; and as lord of the first day of the week he will present this spurious Sabbath as a test of loyalty to him.” - Maranatha, 205:3.

Note: Two facts will identify him as the antichrist: (1) his hatred of God’s law, which is shown by his urging of the people to keep Sunday holy; (2) his hatred of those who obey God’s law, which is shown by his accusations against them and his call for the world to persecute them; and (3) his inability to come in the manner in which Christ will return the second time.

HE CANNOT IMITATE THE SECOND ADVENT

1 - Satan will not be permitted to imitate the manner of Christ’s return in great power with large numbers of angels. (Instead, all he can do is to suddenly appear on the earth, walk around, disappear and reappear elsewhere on the earth.)

“Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent.” -Great Controversy, 625:2.

“Satan will come personating Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles; and men will fall down and worship him as Jesus Christ. We shall be commanded to worship this being, whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do? Tell them that Christ has warned us against Just such a foe, who is man’s worst enemy, yet who claims to be God, and that when Christ shall make His appearance It will be with power and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand times ten thousand angels and thousands of thousands, and that when He shall come we shall know His voice.” -6 Bible Commentary, 1106/1 :O.

HE WILL PERSONALLY WORK MIRACLES

1 - To the degree to which he is permitted, he will perform both counterfeit and actual miracles to convince men that he is the Christ.

“So far as his power extends, he [Satan] will perform actual miracles. Says the Scripture: ‘He deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do,’ not merely those which he pretends to do. Something more than mere impostures is brought to view in this scripture. But there is a limit beyond which Satan cannot go, and here he calls deception to his aid and counterfeits the work which he has not power actually to perform. In the last days he will appear in such a manner as to make men believe him to be Christ come the second time into the world. He will indeed transform himself into an angel of light. But while he will bear the appearance of Christ in every particular, so far as mere appearance goes, it will deceive none but those who, like Pharaoh, are seeking to resist the truth.” -5 Testimonies, 698:1.

2 - Personating Christ, he will work miracles and be worshiped. But the faithful will declare him to be Satan.

“He will come personating Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles; and men will fall down and worship him as Jesus Christ.

“We shall be commanded to worship this being, whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do? - Tell them that Christ has warned us against just such a foe, who is man’s worst enemy, yet who claims to be God; and that when Christ shall make His appearance, it will be with power and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand times ten thousand angels and thousands of thousands; and that when He shall come, we shall know His voice.” -Maranatha, 206:5-6.

“If men are so easily misled now, how will they stand when Satan shall personate Christ, and work miracles? Who will be unmoved by his misrepresentations then -professing to be Christ when it is only Satan assuming the person of Christ, and apparently working the works of Christ?” - 2 Selected Messages, 394:4.

3 - Claiming to be Christ, he will work miracles in the sight of the faithful. Only those clinging to Scripture will not be deluded.

“The time is coming when Satan will work miracles right in your sight, claiming that he is Christ; and if your feet are not firmly established upon the truth of God, then you will be led away from your foundation.” -7 Bible Commentary, 911/1:3.

HE WILL BRING DOWN FIRE

1 - Claiming to be Christ, Satan will heal and bring down fire.

“You know that Satan will come in to deceive if possible the very elect. He claims to be Christ, and he is coming in, pretending to be the great medical missionary. He will cause fire to come down from heaven in the sight of men, to prove that he is God, We must stand barricaded by the truths of the Bible. The canopy of truth is the only canopy under which we can stand safely.” Medical Ministry, 87:5 - 88:O.

2 - Satan will bring tire down from the sky.

“We must not trust the claims of men, They may, as Christ represents, profess to work miracles in healing the sick. Is this marvelous, when just behind them stands the great deceiver, the miracle worker who will yet bring down fire from heaven in the sight of men?” -2 Selected Messages, 49:3.

“It is the lying wonders of the devil that will take the world captive, and he will cause fire to come down from heaven in the sight of men, He is to work miracles, and this wonderful, miracle-working power is to sweep in the whole world,”2 Selected Messages, 51:2.

“It is stated in the Word that the enemy will work through his agents who have departed from the faith, and they will seemingly work miracles, even to the bringing down of fire out of heaven in the sight of men.” -2 Selected Messages, 54:O.

“ ‘He doeth great wonders, so that he makes flee come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do’ (Revelation 13:13-14) No mere Impostures are here foretold. Men are deceived by the miracles which Satan’s agents have power to do, not which they pretend to do.” Great Controversy, 553:2.

Note: Elsewhere we are told that Satan’s healing miracles are illusions, caused by casting spells and then removing them, and that his other miracles are also delusional, and not genuine. In 2 Selected Messages, 54, quoted above, he will “seemingly” work miracles, such as bringing down fire. So it is not real fire. In view of such consistent witness, perhaps the Great Controversy, 553 paragraph (quoted immediately above) means this: Satan and his agents have will have almost overmastering power to actually deceive by what appears to be actual wonders, rather than by obvious sleight-of-hand or mere trickeries.

5 Testimonies 698:1 explains the above statement in Great Controversy, 553:2:

“Something more than mere impostures is brought to view in this scripture. But there Is a limit beyond which Satan cannot go, and here he calls deception to his aid and counterfeits the work which he has not power actually to perform.” -5 Testimonies, 698:1.

And here is another statement:

“Those who look for miracles as a sign of divine guidance are in danger of deception. It is stated in the Word that the enemy will work through his agents who have departed from the faith, and they will seemingly work miracles, even to the bringing down of fire out of heaven in the sight of men. By means of ‘lying wonders’ Satan would deceive, if possible, the very elect.” -3 Selected Messages, 408:4-409:O.

HE WILL DECEIVE ALL EXCEPT THE FAITHFUL

1 - He will misrepresent, pervert, and misapply.

“Satan will take the field and personate Christ. He will misrepresent, misapply, and pervert everything he possibly can.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 411:2,

2 - This false Christ will deceive all except those solidly founded in Scripture.

“A power from beneath is working to bring about the last great scenes in the drama - Satan coming as Christ, and working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in those who are binding themselves together in secret societies,” - 8 Testimonies, 28:O.

“Satan is determined to keep up the warfare to the end. Coming as an angel of light, claiming to be the Christ, he will deceive the world. But his triumph will be short. No storm or tempest can move those whose feet are planted on the principles of eternal truth. They will be able to stand in this time of almost universal apostasy,”-6 Bible Commentary, 1106/2:1,

3 - Satan’s healings, miracles, and lying wonders will deceive all but those obedient to God’s Word.

“Some will be tempted to receive these wonders as from God, The sick will be healed before us. Miracles will be performed in our sight. Are we prepared for the trial which awaits us when the lying wonders of Satan shall be more full exhibited? Will not many souls be ensnared and taken? By departing from the plain precepts and commandments of God, and giving heed to fables, the minds of many are preparing to receive these lying wonders. We must all now seek to arm ourselves for the contest in which we must soon engage. Faith In God’s word, prayerfully studied and practically applied, will be our shield from Satan’s power and will bring us off conquerors through the blood of Christ.” -Maranatha, 208:6

4 - His lying wonders, fire from the sky, and miracles will captivate nearly the whole world.

“It is the lying wonders of the devil that will take the world captive, and he will cause fire to come down from heaven in the sight of men. He is to work miracles; and this wonderful, miracle working power is to sweep in the whole world.” -2 Selected Messages, 51:2.

Will you be prepared to stand up and declare that this beautiful being with the pleasing voice and angelic brilliance - is none other than Satan?

THE GREAT CONTROVERSY. 624-625 PASSAGE

In a later chapter, under the section on the “Great Time of Trouble,” the second mention of Satan’s personation of Christ will be discussed. In that analysis we will repeat the following analysis, which indicates that ALL of the Great Controversy mentions of Satan’s appearances as Christ begin during the Sunday law crisis, prior to the general close of probation. We will now turn our attention to this Great Controversy, page 624-625 passage, for we want to know when the appearance of Satan -stated in itoccurs:

It is clear that the first mention of Satan’s personation of Christ occurs before the close of probation (in Great Controversy, page 588-589). In connection with the second mention of that personation (in Great Controversy, page 624-625), the context indicates that it ALSO occurs before the close of probation (or, at least, begins before probation closes; whether or not it carries over to after the Sanctuary ministry ceases, we do not know). In order to understand this for yourself, carefully read Great Controversy, page 621:2-625:1.

The arrangement of that entire section is as follows: [1] Jacob’s trouble (Great Controversy, page 615:2-620:1). [2] Flashback to before close probation time (Great Controversy, page 620:2-626:O). [3] More on Jacob’s trouble (Great Controversy, page 626:1-627:1).

Let us now look at it more closely:

- Before flashback-

Discussion of Jacob’s Trouble (Great Controversy, page 615:2-620:1).

- Flashback begins--

“The preparation we should now be making (Great Controversy, page 620:2-623:3). Satan will soon begin presenting fearful sights of a supernatural nature to us, and will work miracles (Great Controversy, page 624:1). Satan will personate Christ (Great Controversy, page 624:2-625:2). We must now prepare for what is soon to come - when Satan will appear as Christ and tell the people they should keep Sunday instead of the, Sabbath (Great Controversy, page 625:3-626:O).

- Flashback has ended -

More discussion on the Jacob’s trouble crisis, brought on by the death decree (Great Controversy, page 626:1-627:1). The plagues are poured out (Great Controversy, page 627:2 onward).

You will note that, during the flashback, events prior to the close of probation are discussed. 1 - Here is this second Great Controversy statement:

“Fearful sights of a supernatural character will soon be revealed in the heavens, in token of the power of miracle-working demons. The spirits of devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fasten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last struggle against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pre-tending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world’s Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing and will profess to have relations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures.

“As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan himself will personate Christ. The church has long professed to look to the Savior’s advent as the consummation of her hopes. Now the great deceiver will make it appear that Christ has come. In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the description of the Son of God given by John in the Revelation. Revelation 1: 1315. The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have yet beheld. The shout of triumph rings out upon the air: ‘Christ has come! Christ has come!’ The people prostrate themselves in adoration before him, while he lifts up his hands and pronounces a blessing upon them, as Christ blessed His disciples when He was upon the earth. His voice is soft and subdued, yet full of melody. In gentle, compassionate tones he presents some of the same gracious, heavenly truths which the Savior uttered; he heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed. He declares that those who persist in keeping holy the seventh day are blaspheming his name by refusing to listen to his angels sent to them with light and truth. This is the strong, almost overmastering delusion. Like the Samaritans who were deceived by Simon Magus, the multitudes, from the least to the greatest, give heed to these sorceries, saying: This is ‘the great power of God.’ Acts 8:10.

“And, furthermore, Satan Is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Savior has warned His people against deception upon this point, and has clearly foretold the manner of His second coming. ‘There shall arise false christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. . Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, He is in the desert; go not forth: behold, He is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.’ Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. This coming there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known - witnessed by the whole world.

“Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures and who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive. By the Bible testimony these will detect the deceiver in his disguise. To all the testing time will come. By the sifting of temptation the genuine Christian will be revealed. Are the people of God so firmly established upon His word that they would not yield to the evidence of their senses? Would they, in such a crisis, cling to the Bible and the Bible only? Satan will, if possible, prevent them from obtaining a preparation to stand in that day. He will so arrange affairs as to hedge up their way, entangle them with earthly treasures, cause them to carry a heavy, wearisome burden that their hearts may be overcharged with the cares of this life and the day of trial may come upon them as a thief.” -Great Controversy, 624:2-626:O.

THE FALSE REVIVAL WILL CONTINUE

It is of interest that the counterfeit revival, begun at the setting up of the image, by the enactment of the National Sunday Law, will continue on beyond the general close of probation.

(We will later learn that that satanic revival will come to an abrupt end at the sounding of the Voice of God.)

After probation closes, there will continue to be a Satanic zeal in the forms of religion.

[After the close of probation:] “The forms of religion will be continued by a people from whom the Spirit of God has been finally withdrawn; and the satanic zeal with which the prince of evil will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear the semblance of zeal for God.” -Great Controversy, 615:1.

The warfare by Satan and his agents against God and His people will continue on down to the end.

“Satanic agencies in human form will take part in this last great conflict to oppose the building up of the kingdom of God. And heavenly angels in human guise will be on the field of action. The two opposing parties will continue to exist till the closing up of the last great chapter in this world’s history.” -Maranatha, 167:5.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

HEATHEN DEITIES

The Wicked Character and Seductive Influences of Persecutors of God’s People Represented to John. – “As we near the close of time there will be greater and still greater external parade of heathen power. Heathen deities will manifest their signal power, and will exhibit themselves before the cities of the world; and this delineation has already begun to be fulfilled.

By a variety of images the Lord Jesus represented to John the wicked character and seductive influences of those who have been distinguished for their persecution of God’s people. All need wisdom to carefully search out the mystery of iniquity that figures so largely in the winding up of this earth’s history.

“One of the marked characteristics of these false religious powers is that while they profess to have the character and features of a Iamb, while they profess to be allied to heaven, they reveal by their actions that they have a heart of a dragon, that they are instigated by and united with satanic power, the same power that created war in heaven when Satan sought the supremacy and was expelled from heaven.

Agencies Through Which Satan Is Working in Crowded Cities. - “Satan is busily at work in our crowded cities. His work is to be seen in the confusion, the strife, and discord between labor and capital, and the hypocrisy that has come into the churches. The lust of the flesh, the pride of the eyes, the display of selfishness, the misuse of power, the cruelty, and the force used to cause men to unite with confederacies and unions, -binding themselves up in bundles for the burning of the great fires of the last days, -all these are the working of satanic agencies.

The World Appears to Be Moving Toward Destruction in a Dance Macabre. - The world, who act as though there were no God, absorbed in selfish pursuits, will soon experience sudden destruction, and shall not escape. Many continue in the careless gratification of self, until they become so disgusted with life that they kill themselves. Dancing and carousing, drinking and smoking, indulging their animal passions, they go as an ox to the slaughter. Satan is working with all his art and enchantments to keep men marching blindly onward, until the Lord arises out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquities, when the earth shall disclose her blood, and no more cover her slain. The whole world appears to be in a march of death.” Manuscript 139, 1903, pp. 5-6. (The Message in Revelation, October 23, 1903). [See also: 7BC 410,421-2; Evangelism 26; UL 310.]

SCIENCE

Satanic Science Will Become Stronger From Now Until the Close of Probation. ”Throughout the world satanic science will become stronger and more fully developed, from this time henceforth until Christ rises

from His throne and puts on the garments of vengeance.” -Letter 136, 1906, pp. 6-7. (To G. I. Butler, A. G. Daniells, and G. A. Irwin, April 27, 1906).

SPIRITUALISM

Few Have Any Idea of the Superhuman Power That Will Work Through Spiritualism to Capture the World.- “Spiritualism is about to take the world captive. There are many who think that spiritualism is upheld through trickery and imposture, but this is far from the truth. Superhuman power is working in a variety of ways, and few have any idea as to what will be the manifestations of Spiritualism in the future.

The Falsehood of Natural Immortality Has Laid the Foundation for Spiritualism’s Success.- “The foundations for the success of spiritualism has been laid in the assertions that have been made from the pulpit is of our land. The ministers have proclaimed as Bible doctrines falsehoods that have originated with the arch deceiver. The doctrine of consciousness after death, of the spirits of the dead being in communion with the living, has no foundation in the scriptures, and yet these theories are affirmed as truth. Through this false doctrine, the way is opened for the spirits of devils to deceive the people in representing themselves as the dead. Satanic agencies personate the dead and thus bring souls into captivity. Satan has a religion. He has a synagogue of devoted worshipers. To swell the ranks of his devotees, he uses all manner of deception.

As Men Reject the Truth and God’s Spirit Is Withdrawn, Satan Will Work More Openly.- “The signs and wonders of Spiritualism will become more and more pronounced as the professed Christian world reject the plainly revealed truth of the Word of God, and refuse to be guided by a plain, ‘Thus said the Lord,’ accept-ing instead the doctrines and the commandments of men. Through rejecting light and truth, many are deciding their destiny for eternal death, and as men reject truth, the Spirit of God will gradually withdraw itself from the earth, and the prince of this world will have more and more control over his subjects. He will show great signs and wonders as credentials of his divine claims, and through piritualism will work against Christ and His agencies.”-Undated Manuscript, 66, pp. 16. (“Signs and Wonders of Spiritualism). [See also: Evangelism 602-3.]

LYING WONDERS AND MIRACLES

Satan’s Lying Wonders and Corrupt Harmony Among His Followers. - “We must be waiting and watching and working diligently that Satan may not preoccupy the field and bring the issue upon us before our work is done. Satan has his work all prepared that through his lying wonders he may deceive the world. He will bind men in bundles and claim that [the] world is on his side. A corrupt union will exist among the wicked of the earth, and men will be banded together to trample down the standard of righteousness to please Satan and his evil angels, and to gratify a world at enmity with God and His law.”-Letter 1,1875, pp. 3-4,914,16. (To “Dear Brother,” October 12, 1875.)

Satan Deceives by Apparently Healing Those Whom He Has Tormented. - “The Word of God declares that when it suits the enemy’s purpose, he will through his agencies manifest so great power under a pretense of Christianity that, ‘if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect’ (Matthew 24:24). The enemy is revealed in persons whom he has given power to work miracles. He creates sorrow and suffering and disease. Seeming to change his attributes, he apparently heals those whom he himself has tormented.” - Manuscript 125, 1901, pp. 6-9, 12-14,21. (“The Unchangeable Law of God, “ December 9, 1901).

The World Appears to Be Moving Toward Destruction in a Dance Macabre.- “The world, who act as though there were no God, absorbed in selfish pursuits, will soon experience sudden destruction, and shall not escape. Many continue in the careless gratification of self, until they become so disgusted with life that they kill themselves. Dancing and carousing, drinking and smoking, indulging their animal passions, they go as an ox to the slaughter. Satan is working with all his art and enchantments to keep men marching blindly onward, until the Lord arises out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquities, when the earth shall disclose her blood, and no more cover her slain. The whole world appears to be in a march of death.” Manuscript 139,1903, pp. 5-6. (The Message in Revelation, October 23, 1908). [See also: 7BC 410,421-2; Evangelism 26; UL 310.]

Wonderful Scenes with which Satan Will Be Closely Connected Will Soon Take Place.- “The time will come, Christ tells us, when many deceivers will go forth declaring themselves to be Christ. The Savior says, ‘Go ye not. . after them’ (Luke 21:8). We need not be deceived. Wonderful scenes, with which Satan will be closely connected, will soon take place. God’s Word declares that Satan will work miracles. He will make people sick, and then will suddenly remove from them his satanic power.”-Letter 57, 1904, p. 2. (“To Our Leading Medical Workers,” November 12, 1903).

How Men Under the Influence of Evil Spirits Will Work Miracles.- “Men under the influence of evil spirits will work miracles. They will make people sick by casting their spell upon them, and will then remove the spell, leading others to say that those who were sick have been miraculously healed. This Satan has done again and again.’ “-Letter 259, 1903, pp. 5-6. (To “Dear Sister Hall, “ November 23, 1903). [See also: 7BC 35, 383; 2SM 53; TDG 336; UL 341.]

If We Watch and Obey.- “Temptations will come, but if we watch against the enemy, and maintain the balance of self-control and purity, the seducing spirits will not be able to obtain one jot of influence over us. In the future you will see good reasons for the warnings given in regard to seducing spirits.”- Letter 211, 1905, p. 3. (To J. E. White, July 22, 1905).

Apostates Will Go to Great Lengths in Departing from God.- “The Lord is in earnest with us. In His Word He has declared that many shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. They will go to great lengths in departing from God. . Satan is wide awake, and he will lose no opportunity to bind men and women to his plans, and to fasten them in such a way that before they are aware of it, they will find a yoke of bondage upon them.” Manuscript 122, 1905, pp. 2, 3, 5. 6. (“A Solemn Appeal,” August 1905). [See also: PM 174-5.]

Satan’s Throne Is in This World.- “The seat or throne of Satan is in this world, and students of prophecy are to be fully awake regarding the powers they are to meet.”

Satan’s Power Will Be Manifested as a Wonderful Blessing to the Race. - “There are those who greatly desire power, and who will use inventions that Satan places in their hands to gain power. The evil [one] has acquired wonderful power, and this power will be manifested as apparently a most wonderful blessing to the race.” Manuscript 78, 1905, p. 6. (“A Message to Believers,” n.d. 1905).

By Exercising Faith and Prayer We May Call Heavenly Angels to Our Side. - “We are warned that in these last days satanic influences will work with such power that, if it were possible, they would deceive even the very elect. But living amid these opposing forces, we may, through the exercise of faith and prayer, call to our side a retinue of heavenly angels, who will guard us from every corrupting influence. The workers who make the Word of God their guide, will walk in the light of the Lord, and be safe.” Letter 248, 1907, pp. 24. (To J. E. White and wife, August 16, 1907).

God Will Distinguish With The Marks of His Favor Those Who Submit to be Molded by His Spirit. - “In this age, a time of satanic wonders, everything conceivable will be said and done to deceive, if possible, the very elect. Let believers say nothing to extol Satan’s power. The Lord will distinguish His commandment-keeping people with signal marks of His favor, if they will be molded and fashioned by His Spirit, and built up in the most holy faith, harkening strictly to the voice of His word.”- Letter 195, 1903, pp. 6-7. (To W. C. White, September 6, 1903). [See also: TDG 258; UL 263.]

God Promises Deliverance From the Hour of Temptation. - “There are severe trials before every one of us, yet we need not fail. In the hour of temptation Christ will not leave His children, but will send His angels to minister unto them. He will answer their prayers for deliverance..

If We Will Grasp the Power that Christ Offers.- “Satan knows that his time is short, and he will put forth every effort in his power to destroy our faith in God and in His Word. But if we will grasp the power that Christ offers, seeking the Lord diligently, and watching unto prayer, we shall have all power and wisdom to meet the attacks of the enemy.”

The Time Has Come to Take Our Stand Positively on Christ’s Side. - “Many of our people do not seem to realize that the time has come for everyone to take his stand positively on the side of Jesus Christ and the heavenly angels. By their indifference, by carelessness in word and act, they leave themselves open to the molding influence of the enemy. They seem asleep as regards the issues that are now before the world.”Manuscript 35, 1908, pp. 2, 3, 6-8, 11, 12. (“Conflict and Victory, “ a sermon preached in Oakland, California, March 7, 1908).

Satan, Posing as an Intellectual, Insinuates Himself Into Circles of the Intelligentsia Through Spiritualism. - “Satan personated the serpent in Eden, regarding this creature as the best adapted for his line of temptations. Satan has been increasing in skillful methods by constantly practicing upon the human mind. It is his one purpose to complete the work that he began in Eden, and work the ruin of mankind. Through his mysterious workings he can insinuate himself into the circles of the most educated and refined, for he was once an exalted being, in a high position of responsibility among the heavenly hosts. It is a mistake to represent him as a being with hoofs and horns, for he is still a fallen angel. He is capable of mingling the highest intellectual greatness with basest cruelty and most debasing corruption. If he had not this power, many who are charmed with his attractive representations and taken captive by his delusions would escape his snares.

Why It Is Not Surprising to Find a Species of Refinement in Those Inspired by Fallen Angels. - “In his synagogue Satan brings under his scepter and into his councils those agents whom he can use to promote his worship. Is it not a strange matter to find a species of refinement, and a manifestation of intellectual greatness in the lives and characters of those who are inspired by fallen angels. Satan can impart scientific knowledge and give men chapters upon philosophy. He is conversant with history and versed in worldly wisdom.

Worldly Men Claim to Possess Higher, Grander Intellects than Christ Had. - “Almost every phase of talent is now being brought into captivity to the prince of the power of darkness. Worldly minded men, because they wish to exalt themselves, have separated from God, do not love to retain God in their knowledge, for they claim to possess a higher, grander intellect than that of Jesus Christ. Satan envies Christ, and makes the claim that he is entitled to a higher position than the Commander of heaven. His self-exaltation led him to despise the law of God, and resulted in his expulsion from heaven.

Satan Has Manifested His Character Through the Papacy. - “Through the papacy he has manifested his character and wrought out the principles of his government.

“Satan will use his agencies to carry out diabolical devices, to overpower the saints of God as in time past he used the Roman power to stay the course of Protestantism. Yet the people of God can look calmly at the whole array of evil and come to the triumphant conclusion that, because Christ lives, we shall live also. The people of God are to advance in the same spirit in which Jesus met the assaults of the prince of darkness in the past. The evil confederacy can advance only in the course that Jesus Christ has marked out before them. Every step of their advance brings the saints of God nearer the great white throne, nearer the successful termination of their warfare.”- Undated Manuscript 66, pp. 1-6. (“Signs and Wonders of Spiritualism”) {See also: Evangelism 602-9.}

SATANIC APPEARANCES

He Comes as a Beautiful Angel. -”Satan comes down as a beautiful angel, and presents lovely pictures before the eyes of those who have so perverted their ways before God that they do not see what they are, or know what they need. The enemy has come down with great power, to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish,”-Letter 259, 1909, pp. 5-6. (To “Dear Sister Hall,” November 29, 1909). {See also: TBG 95, 989; 28M 59; TDG 396; UL 941.]

In the Final Conflict Satan Comes, Not Only as a Roaring Lion, but Also as a Seducer. - “We need to understand what we are to meet and how we are to meet it. We must know what efforts we are to make, so that in this perilous time we shall not be taken by the enemy’s devices. We know that the last great conflict will be Satan’s most determined effort to accomplish his purpose. He will come, not only as a roaring lion, but as a seducer, clothing sin with beautiful garments of light, that he may take human beings in his snare.” -Manuscript 46, 1904, pp. 1-9, 6-8. (“The Foundation of Our Faith,” a talk given at Berrien Springs, Michigan, May 18, 1904).

Evil Angels in Human Form Will Present Glowing Representations.-”Satan has his allies in men, and evil angels in human form will, appear to men, and present before them such glowing representations of what they win be able to do, if they will only heed their suggestions, [so) that often they [ex] change their penitence for defiance,”-Manuscript 122, 1905, pp. 2-9, 5-6. (“A solemn Appeal,” August 1905). {See also: PM 174-5.]

SATANIC INFLUENCE

Angels Preserve the World From Destruction because Some Have Never Vet Heard the Message. -”God’s angels are preserving the world from destruction, because there are some who have never yet heard the message of truth.

Those Who act a Part in Spiritualistic Deceptions Will Become as Mad Men When Their Deceptions are Exposed. - “The development of these last days will soon become decided. When these spiritualistic deceptions are revealed to be what they really are, the secret workings of evil spirits, -those who have acted a part in them will become as men who have lost their minds.

“The world is to be flooded with specious fallacies. One human mind, accepting these fallacies, will work upon other human minds who have been turning the precious evidence of God’s truth into a lie. These men will be deceived by fallen angels, when they should have stood as faithful guardians, watching for souls as they that must give an account. They have laid down the weapons of their warfare, and have given heed to seducing spirits. They make of no effect the counsel of God, and set aside His warnings and reproofs, and are positively on Satan’s side, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.

Through Satan’s Cunning Device the Forms of the Dead Will Appear. - “History is to be repeated. The forms of the dead will appear through the cunning device of Satan, and many will link up with the one who loves and makes a lie. Right among us some men will turn away from the faith and give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and by them the truth will be evil spoken of.

Some Who Have Been Deceived Will Repent and Be Converted. -”Some who have been deceived by men in responsible places will repent and be converted. And in all our dealings with them, we must remember that none of those who are in the depth of Satan’s snare know that they are there.”-Letter 311, 1905, pp. 2-9, 5-7(To A. G. Daniells and W. W. Prescott, and their associates, October 30,1905). [See also: Evangelism 122,180; TDG 312; UL 317.}

Satan’s Angels are Mingling with Men. “Satan is using his science in playing the game of life for human souls. His angels are mingling with men, and instructing them in the mysteries of evil. These fallen angels will draw away disciples after them, will talk with men, and will set forth principles that are as false as can be, leading souls into paths of deception. These angels are to be found all over the world, presenting the wonderful things that will soon appear in a more decided light.” -Manuscript 145, 1905, p. 4 (“Diary,” October 31, 1905).

The Shaking And Sifting

The shaking has already begun (Early Writings 50; 4BC. 1161), and we are now in it (1T 429; 6T 332), but erelong it will swell into a purification of the church (2SG 284). The sieve is already moving (1T 100), and the sifting is now taking place (1T 99; 4T 51). A mighty sifting is soon to occur (5T 80).

Sometimes “shaking” and “sifting” are synonymous in the Spirit of Prophecy, sometimes “sifting” is the more severe of the two terms.

Either way, a separating process is involved. Shake sand and gravel in a pan, and they will separate within the pan; drill holes in the bottom and continue shaking; now you are sifting, as the sand falls out and only the gravel remains.

Throughout the history of our church, many superficial believers have been shaken out. (Our problem today is that the church is so lukewarm, that the superficial feel very much at home - and those faithful to our historic beliefs are instead being crowded out; a reverse shaking!) But the shaking/sifting process in our church will climax in the crisis brought on by the enactment of the national Sunday law.

That crisis will powerfully affect every soul living - but it will have an especially immediate and terrific impact on every Sabbath keeper. What more powerful means of sifting out false believers from the true-then when, by government law, it is a criminal act to remain a Seventh-day Adventist!

The shaking/sifting occurs among Sabbath keepers, and has been in progress for many years. It will climax for Sabbath keepers as the Sunday law crisis bursts upon the people of each nation. The shaking/sifting is individually experienced, and results in the seal or mark. Those receiving the seal also receive the latter rain, empowering them to then go out and give the loud cry to the world.

[1] THE CLIMAX OF THE SHAKING

1 - Because of our sins, none of our policies will be able to save us from it.

“All the policy in the world cannot save us from a terrible sifting, and all the efforts made with high authorities will not lift from us the scourging of God, just because sin is cherished.

If as a people we do not keep ourselves in the faith and not only advocate with pen and voice the com-mandments of God, but keep them every one, not violating a single precept knowingly, then weakness and ruin will come upon us.” -3 Selected Messages, 384:3-385:O.

2 - A time is coming when the church will be purified.

“Well may we exclaim: ‘Help, Lord; for the godly man ceases; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.’ I know that many think far too favorably of the present time. These ease-loving souls will be engulfed In the general ruin. Yet we do not despair. We have been inclined to think that where there are no faithful ministers there can be no true Christians, but this is not the case. God has promised that where the shepherds are not true He will take charge of the flock Himself. God has never made the flock wholly dependent upon human instrumentalities. But the days of purification of the church are hastening on apace. God will have a people pure and true. In the mighty sifting soon to take place we shall be better able to measure the strength of Israel. The signs reveal that the time is near when the Lord will manifest that His fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor.” -5 Testimonies, 80:O.

3 - There is great need for such a shaking.

“It is a solemn statement that I make to the church, that not one in twenty whose names are registered upon the church books are prepared to close their earthly history, and would be as verily without God and without hope in the world as the common sinner.” -Christian Service, 41:1.

“Those who have had opportunities to hear and receive the truth and who have united with the Seventh-day Adventist church, calling themselves the commandment-keeping people of God, and yet possess no more vitality and consecration to God than do the nominal churches, will receive of the plagues of God just as verily as the churches who oppose the law of God.” - 19 Manuscript Releases, 176 (1898).

“There are those among us who will make confessions, as did Achan, too late to save themselves. . They are not in harmony with right. They despise the straight testimony that reaches the heart, and would rejoice to see everyone silenced who gives reproof.” -3 Testimonies, 272:2.

4 - It will be a complete work.

“Oh that every lukewarm professor could realize the clean work that God is about to make among His professed people!”- 1 Testimonies, 190:O.

“What sifting will there be among those who claim to be the children of God!”-Testimonies to Ministers, 163:1.

5 - All the chaff will be separated out.

“God’s people will be sifted, even as corn is sifted in a sieve, until all the chaff is separated from the pure kernels of grain.”- 1 Testimonies, 431:2.

6 - The superficial will depart.

“And at that time the superficial, conservative class, whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce the faith and take their stand with its avowed enemies, toward whom their sympathies have long been tending.” -5 Testimonies, 463:2.

7 - The sinners will be sifted out.

“Satan will work his miracles to deceive; he will set up his power as supreme. The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall. It remains, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out-the chaff separated from the precious wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place. None but those who have been overcoming by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony will be found with the loyal and true, without spot or stain of sin, without guile in their mouths.” -2 Selected Messages, 380:2.

Note: We should keep in mind that the “church,” in the Biblical sense, is composed of people - not buildings, institutions, committees, or an organization. Throughout history, in times of relative peace the church has had organization, but the organization is not the church. It never has been and never will be. God’s faithful ones are His church. It is they who will, by His grace, go through to the end. Buildings, committees, agendas, policies, and offices are not saved; only individuals who fulfill in their experience the definition given in Revelation 14:12.

[2] THINGS THAT CAUSE THE SHAKING

1 - False theories produce a shaking.

“When the shaking comes, by the Introduction of false theories, these surface readers, anchored nowhere, are like shifting sand. They slide into any position to suit the tenor of their feelings of bitterness. Daniel and Revelation must be studied, as well as the other prophecies of the Old and New Testaments. Let there be light, yes, light, in your dwellings. For this we need to pray. The Holy Spirit, shining upon the sacred page, will open our understanding, that we may know what is truth.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 112:1.

“The enemy will bring in false theories, such as the doctrine that there is no sanctuary. This is one of the points on which there will be a departing from the faith.” -Evangelism, 224:3.

2 - The shaking occurs when the truth is refused.

“There is to be a shaking among God’s people; but this is not the present truth to carry to the churches. It will be the result of refusing the truth presented.” -2 Selected Messages, 13:1.

“The Lord is soon to come. There must be a refining, winnowing process in every church, for there are among us wicked men who do not love the truth or honor God.”-Review, March 19, 1895.

“Not having received the love of the truth, they will be taken in the delusions of the enemy; they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils and will depart from the faith.”-6 Testimonies, 401:O.

3 - The rejection of the straight testimony brings the shaking.

“I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this is what will cause a shaking among God’s people.” -Early Writings, 270:2.

“The Lord calls for a renewal of the straight testimony borne in years past. He calls for a renewal of spiritual life. The spiritual energies of His people have long been torpid, but there is to be a resurrection from apparent death. By prayer and confession of sin we must clear the King’s highway.” - 8 Testimonies, 297:5-6.

“One thing is certain: Those Seventh-day Adventists who take their stand under Satan’s banner will first give up their faith in the warnings and reproofs contained in the Testimonies of God’s Spirit.” -3 Selected Messages, 84:3.

“The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony of the Spirit of God. ‘Where there is no vision, the people perish,’ (Proverbs 29:18). Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God’s remnant people in the true testimony.” -1 Selected Messages, 48:3.

“The enemy has made his masterly efforts to unsettle the faith of our own people in the Testimonies. . This is just as Satan designed it should be, and those who have been preparing the way for the people to pay no heed to the warnings and reproofs of the Testimonies of the Spirit of God will see that a tide of errors of all kinds will spring to life.” - 3 Selected Messages, 83:3-4.

“It is Satan’s plan to weaken the faith of God’s people in the Testimonies. Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts till he launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction,”-4 Testimonies, 211:1.

4 - Disobedience brings the shaking.

“The history of the rebellion of Dathan and Abiram is being repeated, and will be repeated till the close of time. Who will be on the Lord’s side? Who will be deceived, and in their turn become deceivers?” -Letter 15, 1892.

“We are in the shaking time, the time when everything that can be shaken will be shaken. The Lord will not excuse those who know the truth if they do not In word and deed obey His commands.” -6 Testimonies, 332:O.

5 - Persecution produces a shaking.

“In the absence of the persecution there have drifted into our ranks men who appear sound and their Christianity unquestionable, but who, if persecution should arise, would go out from us.” -Evangelism, 360:4.

6 - Acceptance of false science brings separation.

“Science, so-called, and religion will be placed in opposition to each other because finite men do not comprehend the power and greatness of God. These words of Holy Writ were presented to me, ‘Of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them’ [Acts 20:30]. This will surely be seen among the people of God.”-Evangelism, 593:1.

7 - Trials increase the shaking, but the coming storm of persecution will climax it.

“As trials thicken around us, both separation and unity will be seen in our ranks. Some who are now ready to take up weapons of warfare will in times of real peril make it manifest that they have not built upon the solid rock; they will yield to temptation. Those who have had great light and precious privileges, but have not improved them, will, under one pretext or another, go out from us. Not having received the love of the truth, they will be taken in the delusions of the enemy; they will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, and will depart from the faith. But, on the other hand, when the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd’s voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united front.

In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease; there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest. No one of the true believers will say: ‘I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas.’ The testimony of one and all will be: ‘I cleave unto Christ; I rejoice in Him as my personal Savior.’ “-6 Testimonies, 400:03-401:O.

[3] THE WHEAT WILL BE SEPARATED FROM THE CHAFF

1 - The wheat and the tares grow up together.

“Divisions will come in the church. Two parties will be developed. The wheat and tares grow up together for the harvest.” -2 Selected Messages, 114:O.

2 - The sieve will eliminate the chaff.

“There will be a shaking of the sieve. The chaff must in time be separated from the wheat. Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold. It is the very time when the genuine will be the strongest.” - Letter 46, 1887.

3 - Adversity does the purging.

“Prosperity multiplies a mass of professors. Adversity purges them out of the church.” -4 Testimonies, 89:2.

[4] THE SHAKING AND SIFTING TO CLIMAX

1 - The separation will occur in the marking time.

“The time of judgment is a most solemn period, when the Lord gathers His own from among the tares. Those who have been members of the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. ‘They shall be Mine, said the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spares his own son that serves him.’ Those who have been obedient to God’s commandments will unite with the company of the saints in light; they shall enter in through the gates into the city, and have right to the tree of life. The one shall be taken. His name shall stand in the book of life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 234:2-235:O.

2 - The sifting climaxes when the law of God is made void.

“When the law of God is made void the church will be sifted by fiery trials, and a larger proportion than we now anticipate, will give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.” - 2 Selected Messages, 368:1.

“The great issue so near at hand [enforcement of Sunday laws] will weed out those whom God has not appointed and He will have a pure, true, sanctified ministry prepared for the latter rain.” - 3 Selected Messages, 385:3.

3 – The sifting climaxes when the mark is urged.

“The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death. The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men. In this time the gold will be separated from the dross in the church. True godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ’s righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness.

“When trees without fruit are cut down as cumberers of the ground, when multitudes of false brethren are distinguished from the true, then the hidden ones will be revealed to View, and with hosannas range under the banner of Christ. Those who have been timid and self-distrustful will declare themselves openly for Christ and His truth. The most weak and hesitating in the church will be as David - willing to do and dare. The deeper the night for God’s people, the more brilliant the stars. Satan will sorely harass the faithful; but, in the name of Jesus, they will come off more than conquerors. Then will the church of Christ appear ‘fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.’ “ - 5 Testimonies, 81:1- 82:O.

4 - The final separation occurs when the worship of the beast is commanded.

“The time is upon us when the miracle-working power of the arch-deceiver will be more decidedly revealed. And his deceptions will increase in their delusive attraction, so that they will perplex, and if possible, deceive, the very elect. The prince of darkness with his evil angels is working upon the Christian world, inducing those who profess the name of Christ to stand under the banner of darkness, to make war with those who keep the commandments of God, and have the faith of Jesus.

“An apostate church will unite with the powers of earth and hell to place upon the forehead or in the hand, the mark of the beast, and prevail upon the children of God to worship the beast and his image. They will seek to compel them to renounce their allegiance to God’s law and yield homage to the papacy. Then will come the times which will try men’s souls; for the confederacy of apostasy will demand that the loyal subjects of God shall renounce the law of Jehovah, and repudiate the truth of His word. Then will the gold be separated from the dross, and it will be made apparent who are the godly, who are the loyal and true, and who are the disloyal, the dross and the tinsel. What clouds of chaff will then be borne away by the fan of God! Where now our eyes can discover only rich floors of wheat, will be chaff blown away with the fan of God. Every one who is not centered in Christ will fail to stand the test and ordeal of that day. While those who are clothed with Christ’s righteousness will stand firm to truth and duty, those who have trusted in their own righteousness will be ranged under the black banner of the prince of darkness. Then it will be seen whether the choice is for Christ of Belial.

“Those who have been self-distrustful, who have been so circumstanced that they have not dared to face stigma and reproach, will at last openly declare themselves for Christ and His law; while many who have appeared to be flourishing trees, but who have borne no fruit, will go with the multitude to do evil, and will receive the mark of apostasy in the forehead or in the hand.” -Maranatha, 204:1-3.

5 - God permits affliction to purify the church.

“Soon there is to be trouble all over the world. It becomes everyone to seek to know God. We have no time to delay...

“God’s love for His church is infinite. His care over His heritage is unceasing. He suffers no affliction to come upon the church but such as is essential for her purification, her present and eternal good. He will purify His church even as of His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon the church in test and trial comes that His people may gain deeper piety and more strength to carry the triumphs of the cross to all parts of the world.”- 9 Testimonies, 228:1-2.

“Afflictions, crosses, temptations, adversity, and our varied trials are God’s workmen to refine us, sanctify us, and fit us for the heavenly garner.” - 3 Testimonies, 115:1.

[5] THE CHURCH WILL APPEAR AS TO FALL

1 - Satan will try to destroy the little company.

“Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained control of the apostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced the heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. . Their only hope is in the mercy of God; their only defense will be prayer.

“The trying experiences that came to God’s people in the days of Esther were not peculiar to that age alone. The revelator, looking down the ages to the close of time, has declared, ‘The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.’ Revelation 12:17. Some who today are living on the earth will see these words fulfilled.

“The wrath of Satan increases as his time grows short, and his work of deceit and destruction will reach its culmination in the time trouble.”-Faith I Live By, 289:1-3.

2 - God will be with His faithful ones to the end.

“I am encouraged and blessed as I realize that the God of Israel is still guiding His people, and that He will continue to be with them, even to the end.” - General Conference Bulletin, May 27, 1913, p. 165.

3 - God will care for His faithful ones.

“The church, soon to enter upon her most severe conflict, will be the object most dear to God upon earth. The confederacy of evil will be stirred with power from beneath, and Satan will cast all the reproach possible upon the chosen ones whom he cannot deceive and delude with his satanic inventions and falsehoods. But exalted ‘to be a Prince and a Savior, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins,’ will Christ, our representative and head close His heart, or withdraw His hand, or falsify His promise? No; never, never.” - Testimonies to Ministers, 20:1.

4 - His people will not fall, but will go through to the end.

“The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall, it remains.” -7 Bible Commentary, 911/2:2.

Note: The above passage, taken from Letter 55, 1886, has been quoted repeatedly. Here is the complete list:

Maranatha, 203:2

Maranatha, 32:6

Manuscript Releases, Volume 12, 324:3 Reflecting Christ, 228:8

2 Selected Messages, 380:2

7 Bible Commentary, 911/2:2

Upward Look, 368:6

In the process of looking them all up, one was found which had the complete letter! It is 2 Selected Messages, 376:1-383:1. (READ IT HERE) That is indeed fortunate, for, only recently, we had found most of the letter only in the unpublished manuscripts, which we are in the process of printing under the title, The Last Days.

The portion found in The Last Days is quoted below.

Two facts will help us understand the above “church does not fall” passage:

Fortunately, we now have the context of the above “will not fall” passage! Part of Letter 55, 1886, is included in an unreleased set of manuscript statements.

[6] A MAJORITY WILL FORSAKE US

The “church” will be tested individually one by one. We will not be tested as an organization, a union, a conference, or a local church. The testing will be personally applied and experienced, and the decisions will be individually made. It is very important we understand that it will all occur on an individual basis. No local, statewide, or national organization will do our thinking for us, undergo the test for us, or shelter us from having to make our own decisions in the matter. We will only have God 88 our protector and enabler.

1 - The counterworkers will be purged.

“Those who have had privileges and opportunities to become intelligent in regard to the truth and yet who continue to counterwork the work God would have accomplished will be purged out, for God accepts the service of no man whose interest is divided.”- Last Day Events, 175:1.

2 - Large numbers will leave.

“The shaking of God blows away multitudes like dry leaves.”- 4 Testimonies, 89:2.

“Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat.”- 5 Testimonies, 81:1.

3 - When the law is despised, the majority will forsake us.

“Soon God’s people will be tested by fiery trials, and the great proportion of those who now appear to be genuine and true will prove to be base metal.

“When the religion of Christ is most held in contempt, when His law is most despised, then should our zeal be the warmest and our courage and firmness the most unflinching. To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when the majority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are few-this will be our test. At this time we must gather warmth from the coldness of others, courage from their cowardice, and loyalty from their treason.” - 5 Testimonies, 136:1-2.

4 - All will be individually tested. The superficial modernists will totally abandon the truth when the crisis hits.

“The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith. And at that time the superficial, conservative class, whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce the faith and take their stand with its avowed enemies, toward whom their sympathies have long been tending.

These apostates will then manifest the most bitter enmity, doing all in their power to oppress and malign their former brethren and to excite indignation against them. This day is just before us. The members of the church will Individually be tested and proved. They will be placed in circumstances where they will be forced to bear witness for the truth. Many will be called to speak before councils and in courts of justice, perhaps separately and alone. The experience which would have helped them in this emergency they have neglected to obtain, and their souls are burdened with remorse for wasted opportunities and neglected privileges.” -5 Testimonies, 463:2.

“Even in our day there have been and will continue to be entire families who have once rejoiced in the truth, but who will lose faith because of calumnies and falsehoods brought to them in regard to those whom they have loved and with whom they have had sweet counsel. They opened their hearts to the sowing of tares; the tares sprang up among the wheat; they strengthened; the crop of wheat became less and less; and the precious truth lost its power to them.”-Testimonies to Ministers. 411:2.

5 - At that time God will not use the great ones, but only the humble.

“The days are fast approaching when there will be great perplexity and confusion. Satan, clothed in angel robes, will deceive, if possible, the very elect. There will be gods many, and lords many. Every wind of doctrine will be blowing. Those who have rendered supreme homage to ‘science falsely so called’ will not be the leaders then. Those who have trusted to intellect, genius, or talent will not then stand at the head of rank and file. They did not keep pace with the light. Those who have proved themselves unfaithful will not then be entrusted with the flock. In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged. They are self-sufficient, independent of God, and He cannot use them. The Lord has faithful servants, who in the shaking, testing time will be disclosed to view. There are precious ones now hidden who have not bowed the knee to Baal. They have not had the light which has been shining in a concentrated blaze upon you. But it may be under a rough and uninviting exterior the pure brightness of a genuine Christian character will be revealed. In the daytime we look toward heaven but do not see the stars. They are there, fixed in the firmament, but the eye cannot distinguish them. In the night we behold their genuine luster.

“The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death.” -5 Testimonies, 80:1- 81:1.

[7] MANY LEADERS WILL DEPART

1 - Many prominent leaders (salaried or otherwise) in our denomination will leave.

“Many a star that we have admired for its brilliance will then go out in darkness.” -Prophets and Kings, 188:1.

“Men whom He has greatly honored will, in the closing scenes of this earth’s history, pattern after ancient Israel. A departure from the great principles Christ has laid down in His teachings, a working out of human projects, using the Scriptures to justify a wrong course of action under the perverse working of Lucifer, will confirm men in misunderstanding, and the truth that they need to keep them from wrong practices will leak out of the soul like water from a leaky vessel.”- 19 Manuscript Releases, 379, 381 (1904).

“Many will show that they are not one with Christ, that they are not dead to the world, that they may live with Him; and frequent will be the apostasies of men who have occupied responsible positions.” -Last Day Events, 179:1.

“Many will stand in our pulpits with the torch of false prophecy in their hands, kindled from the hellish torch of Satan.

“Some will go out from among us who will bear the ark no longer. But these can not make walls to obstruct the truth; for it will go onward and upward to the end.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 409:3-410:O, 411:1.

“Ministers and doctors may depart from the faith, as the Word declares they will, and as the messages that God has given His servant declare they will.”-7Manuscript Releases, 192:4 (1906).

2 - Many talented men will, in the crisis, depart and become our enemies.

“As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position, and join the ranks of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side. Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbath keepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them.”-Great Controversy, 608:2.

[8] MANY WILL COME AND TAKE THEIR PLACE

1 - Although many will leave, many others will enter and take their places.

“But there are men who will receive the truth, and these will take the places made vacant by those who become offended and leave the truth.

“Men of true Christian principle will take their place, and will become faithful, trustworthy householders, to advocate the word of God in its true bearings, and in its simplicity. The Lord will work so that the disaffected ones will be separated from the true and loyal ones. The ranks will not be diminished. Those who are firm and true will close up the vacancies that are made by those who become offended and apostatize.” Maranatha, 200:5-6.

2 - Precious ones will enter.

“The Lord has faithful servants who in the shaking, testing time will be disclosed to view, There are precious ones now hidden who have not bowed the knee to Baal. They have not had the light which has been shining In a concentrated blaze upon you. But it may be under a rough and uninviting exterior the pure brightness of a genuine Christian character will be revealed. In the daytime we look toward heaven but do not see the stars. They are there, fixed in the firmament, but the eye cannot distinguish them. In the night we behold their genuine luster.” -5 Testimonies, 80:1-81:O.

3 - Others will take hold of the truth.

“Some had been shaken out and left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, and their places were Immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks,”-Early Writings, 271:1.

4 - Many will come from the ranks of the enemy.

“Standard after standard was left to trail in the dust as company after company from the Lord’s army joined the foe and tribe after tribe from the ranks of the enemy united with the commandment-keeping people of God.” -8 Testimonies, 41:1.

5 - Many will enter at the eleventh hour.

“The broken ranks will be filled up by those represented by Christ as coming in at the eleventh hour. There are many with whom the Spirit of God is striving. The time of God’s destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who [now] have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched, His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is closed to those who would not enter. Large numbers will be admitted who in these last days hear the truth for the first time,”- Last Day Events, 182:2.

[9] WHEN THE SHAKING IS FINISHED

The shaking and sifting will end as false professors are sifted out of the truth, and the faithful are sealed into it.

1 - The solid ones will remain.

“Let opposition arise, let bigotry and intolerance again bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the half-hearted and hypocritical will waver and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock, his faith stronger, his hope brighter than in days of prosperity.” -Great Controversy, 602:1.

2 - Stripped of the dross, and now in armor, the church goes forth to its final conflict.

“The church is to be fed with manna from heaven, and to be kept under the sole guardianship of His grace. Clad in complete armor of light and righteousness, she enters upon her final conflict. The dross, the worthless material, will be consumed, and the influence of the truth testifies to the world of its sanctifying, ennobling character,”-Testimonies to Ministers, 17:1-18:O.

[10] LOCATING THE SHAKING CLIMAX

1 - Sequence: (1) The test begins as the mark is urged [81:1a]. (2) Conformists yield to avoid the death threat. Sifting in the church occurs as false professors leave [81:1 b]. (3) Faithful ones stand unmoved through the crisis, and are more than conquerors [81:2-82:O]. (4) After the sifting the loud cry begins [82:1]. [Read 5T 81-82 for full context; for a most powerful learning process, read the entire chapter!]

“The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men, in this time the gold will be separated from the dross in the church. True godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat.

“Then will the church of Christ appear ‘fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.’

“The seeds of truth that are being sown by missionary efforts will then spring up and blossom and bear fruit. Souls will receive the truth who will endure tribulation and praise God that they may suffer for Jesus.”-5 Testimonies, 81:1, 82:O-1.

2 - Sequence: As the loud cry angel comes down, the latter rain falls, and the message of obedience by faith is (during the loud cry) carried to the world-and heard in every language.

“It is with earnest longing that I look forward to the time when the events of the day of Pentecost shall be repeated with even greater power than on that occasion. John says, ‘I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.’ Then, as at the Pentecostal season, the people will hear the truth spoken to them, every man in his own tongue.” -6 Bible Commentary, 1055/1:4.

“Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers.” -Great Controversy, 612:1.

3 - Sequence: first the shaking, then the sealing and latter rain, leading into the loud cry.

Read Early Writings, 269-271. It is a very important chapter about the shaking and, indeed, that is its title. Here is the pattern you will find in those three pages: Those in the church are divided by their attitudes and actions into three classes (269:1-270:2): the crying ones (269:1-270:1), the indifferent ones (270:1), and the opposing ones (270:2). The cause of the shaking is resistance to the “straight testimony” (the Spirit of Prophecy counsels and the pleadings of the faithful for reformation in the church) (270:2-3). As a result of that shaking, the careless and indifferent leave (271:1), and the faithful receive the latter rain (the refreshing), and go forth to give the loud cry (270:4-271:2).

[11] PROBATION OF THE CHURCH WILL CLOSE

When will the probation of the church close? Has it already closed? This is a burning question in the discussions of many of our people. Here are some facts in the case. You will find support for these points in quotations throughout this study (and especially in the following sections: Shaking and Sifting; National Sunday Law; Mark and Seal; Judgment Passes to the Living; Blotting out of Sin; Latter Rain; and Loud Cry):

In the last days, the faithful will not only engage in earnest missionary work for those who have never heard the message; they also will be sighing and crying for the sins done in the church. Yet, after the seal is placed on them, they will no longer sigh and cry over sin and sinners in the church, but will instead only give the loud cry to the world. Why? The obvious answer is that, when the national Sunday law is enacted, every Sabbath keeper will, within a very short time (probably a few weeks at the most), have made his decision in regard to the Sabbath. Rapidly the entire American Adventist church -along with many former Adventists -will be sifted and purified! The loud cry is not given to the church but to the world -because everyone remaining in the church will be a faithful, dedicated, obedient child of God. Their individual decisions will have been made and their individual probations will have closed.

The sequence is this: (1) The judgment does not pass to the living until the national Sunday law is enacted and the sealing begins. (2) With the exception of those who die, probation closes for no one until they make their decision in that crisis. (3) Within a short time after the national Sunday law is enacted, those who already know the basics of the third angel’s message will be brought to the test and have to make their decision for Sabbath or Sunday. Each will then make his decision and be marked or sealed. At that moment, the investigative judgment will pass to his name, his case will be decided, and his probation closed. (4) In the few days or weeks necessary in each nation for that test to pass upon the church, the probation of its members and backsliders will close. (5) As soon as that decision is made, the faithful will receive the seal, latter rain, and begin giving the loud cry. Why will they then give the loud cry? Because probation has not closed for the majority of those out in the world; they have not yet heard the Sabbath truth and understand the issues involved. So that message is taken to them so they also can make their decisions.

That explains when “the probation of the church” shall close. It will close when it closes for all the individual members in the church. It closes when Individual members make their decision in regard to obeying the national Sunday law.

[12] WILL THE ORGANIZATION GO TO THE END?

Will the church structure go through to the end? At the end of the section on the Loud Cry, we will note that the quotatlon8 indicate that, from the sealing, latter rain, and loud cry onward, only individuals will give the final message and go through to the end.

In addition, nowhere are we told of any church Institution (such as conference headquarters, hospitals, etc.) which will continue on after the crisis of the mark begins. However, there are indications that personal missionary work, door-to-door visitation, Individual medical missionary work, printing, literature distribution, and colporteur work will continue, to one extent or another. Very likely, these will only be activities carried on by individuals and small groups, scattered here and there. This is understandable, for we would not expect the Adventist Church organization to have a part In such activities, once enactment of the national Sunday law effectively made It illegal for the Adventist organization to be legal, unless It Immediately switched over to Sunday keeping (which, at that time, leaders might possibly do).

[13] SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

“From what has been shown me, there are not more than half of the young who profess religion and the truth who have been truly converted.”1 Testimonies 158:1.

“Names are registered upon the church books upon earth, but not In the book of life, I saw that there is not one in twenty of the youth who knows what experimental religion is.” - 1Testimonies, 504:2 (1867).

“In the last vision given me, I was shown the startling fact that but a small portion of those who now profess the truth will be sanctified by it and be saved.”- 1Testimonies, 608:8 (1867).

“I have stated before them that, from what was shown me, but a small number of those now professing to believe the truth would eventually be saved.” - 2 Testimonies, 445:2 (1870).

“Prosperity multiplies a mass of professors. Adversity purges them out of the church.” -4 Testimonies, 89:2.

“Divisions will come in the church. Two parties will be developed. The wheat and tares grow up together for the harvest.” - 2 Selected Messages, 114:O.

“When the day comes when the law of God is made void, and the church is sifted by the fiery trials that are to try all that live upon the earth, a great proportion of those who are supposed to be genuine will give heed to seducing spirits, and will turn traitors and betray sacred trusts. They will prove our very worst persecutors.”-6 Bible Commentary, 1065:1/1.

“Many a star that we have admired for its brilliance will then go out in darkness.” -Prophets and Kings, 188:1.

“Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat.” -5 Testimonies, 81:1.

‘“The shaking of God blows away multitudes like dry leaves.” -4 Testimonies, 89:2. “In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged.” -5 Testimonies, 80:1.

“Soon God’s people will be tested by fiery trials, and the great proportion of those who now appear to be genuine and true will prove to be base metal.”-5 Testimonies, 136:1.

“To stand in defense of truth and righteousness when the majority forsake us, to fight the battles of the Lord when champions are few this will be our test. At this time we must gather warmth from the coldness of others, courage from their cowardice, and loyalty from their treason.” 5 Testimonies, 136:2.

“Let opposition arise, let bigotry and intolerance again bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the halfhearted and hypocritical will waver and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock, his faith stronger, his hope brighter than in days of prosperity.” -Great Controversy, 602:1.

“Amidst the deepening shadows of earth’s last great crisis, God’s light will shine brightest, and the song of hope and trust will be heard in clearest and loftiest strains.” -Education, 166:7.

“When the storm of persecution really breaks upon us, the true sheep will hear the true Shepherd’s voice. Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed from the fold will comeback to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a united front. In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease; there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest. Then will the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of the Lord.”- 6 Testimonies, 401:1.

“The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had been shaken out and left by the way. The careless and indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind In darkness, and their places were immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks.”-Early Writings, 271:1.

“The Lord has faithful servants, who in the shaking, testing time will be disclosed to view. There are precious ones now hidden who have not bowed the knee to Baal. They have not had the light which has been shining in a concentrated blaze upon you. But it may be under a rough and uninviting exterior the pure brightness of a genuine Christian character will be revealed. In the day time we look toward heaven but do not see the stars. They are there, fixed in the firmament, but the eye cannot distinguish them. In the night we behold their genuine luster.” -5 Testimonies, 80:1-81:O.

“Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the Lord’s side.” - Great Controversy, 612:2.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

SIFTING

Worldly Policy and Efforts Made with High Authorities Cannot Save Us From a Terrible Sifting that Is Coming. - “AII the policy in the world cannot save us from a terrible sifting.

There will be a shaking of the sieve. The chaff must in time be separated from the wheat. Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold. It is the very time when the genuine will be strongest. There will be [a] separating from us of those who have not appreciated the light nor walked in it.”- Letter 46, 1887, p. 6. (To H. H. Kellogg, April 12, 1887.)

The Seal And The Mark

Seals have been used for thousands of years to provide a permanent shutting or closing of something. For example, a sheet of paper containing a letter would be folded over upon it self, a bit of wax dropped to hold it shut, and then a signet ring would be impressed upon the wax. The sheet was now considered securely sealed; it could not be opened without tearing apart the molded wax.

When the seal of God is applied, those who. receive it will be permanently identified as belonging to God. Their already-developed characters will be sealed in. At the same time that the seal (also called a “mark” in the Bible: Ezekiel 9) is impressed, a different kind of closing signet will be applied: the mark of the beast. It will be placed on those who, by their decisions and actions, have refused the seal of God. They have refused obedience to God’s expressed will, as stated in the Scriptures.

The sealing will be a major event in the lives of the remnant who live at the end of time. In this section, we will learn the nature of the seal, in what way it is different than the mark, and when both begin to be placed.

1 - The winds of strife, war, and manifold disasters are being held in check until the seal is placed.

“Everything in the world is in an unsettled state. The nations are angry, and great preparations for war are being made. Nation is plotting against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. The great day of God is hasting greatly. But although the nations are mustering their forces for war and bloodshed, the command to the angels is still in force, that they hold the four winds until the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads.” -7 Bible Commentary, 968/2:3.

2 - The seal will be placed before the last great battle. (In a later study, we will discuss the battle of Armageddon.)

“As yet the four winds are held until the servants of God shall be sealed in their foreheads. Then the powers of earth will marshal their forces for the last great battle. How carefully we should improve the little remaining period of our probation.”-7 Bible Commentary, 968/2:1.

3 - It is now that we are to prepare for the sealing.

“The sealing time is very short, and will soon be over. Now is the time, while the four angels are holding the four winds, to make sure our calling and election sure.”-Early Writings, 58:2.

4 - The seal is an invisible mark of loyalty and obedience to our Creator.

“What is the seal of the living God, which is placed in the foreheads of His people? It is a mark which angels, but not human eyes, can read; for the destroying angel must see this mark of redemption. The intelligent mind has seen the sign of the cross of Calvary in the Lord’s adopted sons and daughters. The sin of the transgression of the law of God is taken away.

They have on the wedding garment, and are obedient and faithful to all God’s commands.” -7 Bible Commentary, 968/2:4.

5 - The seal is a settling into the truth.

“Just as soon as the people of God are sealed in their foreheads -it is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they cannot be moved -just as soon as God’s people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come. Indeed, it has begun already.” - 4 Bible Commentary 1161/2:3.

6 - The seal will be our passport through the heavenly gates.

“Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport through the gates of the Holy City.”-7 Bible Commentary, 970/1:1.

7 - The seal will only be placed on those who are like Christ.

“The seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 970/1:3.

8 - They must reflect the image of Jesus.

“I also saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the-seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the Image of Jesus fully.” Early Writings, 71:1.

9 - The seal is only placed on those who are pure and without spot.

“The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God-candidates for heaven.” - 5 Testimonies, 216:2.

10 - The seal is placed on those who love God and obey Him.

“Love is expressed in obedience, and perfect love castes out all fear. Those who love God, have the seal of God in their foreheads, and work the works of God.”-Son and Daughters, 51:2.

11 - It is placed on those who overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil.

“Those that overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil, will be the favored ones who shall receive the seal of the living God.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 445:1.

12 - Many ere erroneously neglecting becoming like Jesus, and are instead waiting for the latter rain to change them.

“Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully. I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to the time of ‘refreshing’ and the ‘latter rain’ to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter!” Early Writings, 71:1-2.

13 - The seal is the property sign; it shows who belongs to God as His special possession.

“Every soul in our world is the Lord’s property, by creation and by redemption. Each individual soul is on trial for his life. Has he given to God that which belongs to Him? Has he surrendered to God all that is His as His purchased possession? All who cherish the Lord as their portion in this life will be under His control, and will receive the sign, the mark of God, which shows them to be God’s special possession. Christ’s righteousness will go before them, and the glory of the Lord will be their reward. The Lord protects every human being who bears His sign.” 7 Bible Commentary, 969/1:1.

14 - The seal is placed on those who conscientiously keep the Sabbath.

“The seal of the living God is placed upon those who conscientiously keep the Sabbath of the Lord.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 980/1:2.

“Those who would have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 970/1:2.

“True observance of the Sabbath is the sign of loyalty to God.”-7 Bible Commentary, 981/2:1.

“The fourth commandment alone of all the ten contains the seal of the great Lawgiver, the Creator of the heavens and the earth.” - 6 Testimonies, 350:3.

“The observance of the Lord’s memorial, the Sabbath instituted in Eden, the seventh-day Sabbath, is the test of our loyalty to God.” -Last Day Events, 220:5.

“A mark is placed upon every one of God’s people, just as verily as a mark was placed over the doors of the Hebrew dwellings to preserve the people from the general ruin, God declares, ‘I gave them My sabbaths, to be a sign between Me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them’ [Ezekiel 20:12].” - 7 Bible Commentary, 969/1:O.

15 - The seal will be placed on every true child of God.

“In a little while every one who is a child of God will have His seal placed upon him. O that it may be placed upon our foreheads! Who can endure the thought of being passed by when the angel goes forth to seal the servants of God in their foreheads?”-Maranatha, 211:7.

16 - All of the 144,000 will be sealed.

“The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads was written, God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus’ new name.”-Early Writings, 15:1.

17 - We should strive to be among the 144,000.

“Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.”-7 Bible Commentary, 970/2:2.

18 - Through the enabling grace of Christ, we are to strive to put away sin and obey God’s will -that we may become complete in Him.

“Are we striving with all our God-given powers to reach the measure of the stature of men and women In Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever reaching higher and higher, trying to attain to the perfection of His character? When God’s servants reach this point, they will be sealed in their foreheads. The recording angel will declare, ‘It is done.’ They will be complete in Him whose they are by creation and by redemption.”-3 Selected Messages, 427:2.

THE FALSE SABBATH

1 - The mark of the beast is a subject we all need to understand.

“It is in the interest of all to understand what the mark of the beast is, and how they may escape the dread threatening of God. Why are men not interested to know what constitutes the mark of the beast and his image? It is in direct contrast with the mark of God.” -7 Bible Commentary, 979/2:2.

2 - It is important that we know how to avoid receiving the mark.

3 - God has sent an urgent warning to mankind to avoid receiving the mark; a warning which tells them how to avoid receiving it.

“When God sends to men warnings so important that they are represented as proclaimed by holy angels flying in the midst of heaven, He requires every person endowed with reasoning power to heed the message. The fearful judgments denounced against the worship of the beast and his image, should lead all to a diligent study of the prophecies to learn what the mark of the beast Is, and how they are to avoid receiving It.” -Great Controversy, 594:2.

4 - The Sabbath truth will be the basic issue in the final conflict.

“The Sabbath question will be the issue in the great conflict in which all the world will act a part. [Revelation 13:4-8, 10 quoted.] This entire chapter is a revelation of what will surely take place [Revelation 13:11, 15-17 quoted].”-7 Bible Commentary, 979/2:3.

5 - The Sabbath is the seal of the law. It seals it as God’s property and identifying characteristics.

“When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from the law.” Great Controversy, 452:1.

6 - The observance of the first day of the week as sacred -is the mark.

“John was called to behold a people distinct from those who worship the beast and his image, by keeping the first day of the week. The observance of this day is the mark of the beast.” -7 Bible Commentary, 979/2:4.

7 - The attempted change of the Sabbath to Sunday is the mark.

“As the sign of the authority of the Catholic Church, papist writers cite this very act of changing the Sabbath into Sunday.” -Signs, March 22, 1910.

8 - The enactment of the national Sunday law will perfect this device of Satan.

“When the legislature frames laws which exalt the first day of the week, and put it in place of the seventh day, the device of Satan will be perfected.”-7 Bible Commentary, 976/2:1.

9 - Knowing acceptance of enforced Sunday keeping is the worship of the beast.

“The enforcement of Sunday keeping on the part of the Protestant churches is an enforcement of the worship of the papacy -of the beast. Those who, understanding the claims of the fourth commandment, choose to observe the false instead of the true Sabbath are thereby paying homage to that power by which alone it is commanded.” -Great Controversy, 448:3-449:O.

10 - The papal Sabbath is the mark of the beast; it is his identifying signet.

“The change of the Sabbath is the sign or mark of the authority of the Romish church. The mark of the beast is the papal Sabbath.” Evangelism, 234:1.

11 - The false Sabbath is the basis of Rome’s authority over the people.

“Roman Catholics acknowledge that the change in the Sabbath was made by their church, and they cite this very change as evidence of the supreme authority of the church. “-Manuscript 51, 1899.

12 - The sign of Satan’s authority is in direct contrast to the seal of God’s authority.

“The spurious Sabbath. Satan has exalted as the sign of his authority. But God has set His seal upon His royal requirement. Each Sabbath Institution bears the name of its author, an ineffaceable mark that shows the authority of each. It is our work to lead the people to understand this. We are to show that It is of vital consequence whether they bear the mark of God’s kingdom or the mark of rebellion, for they acknowledge themselves subjects of the kingdom whose mark they bear.”- 6 Testimonies, 352:1.

13 - The beast’s mark is found in the spurious Sabbath.

“What then is the mark of the beast but the spurious Sabbath.” -Manuscript 51, 1899. “The spurious Sabbath bears the mark of the man of sin.”-Manuscript 63, 1899.

Note: The very word contains its meaning: It is the “sun day,” the day of the sun god, which, throughout history, has been a primary pagan deity by which men have worshiped Satan.

“The Sabbath” comes from the Hebrew word for “rest,” and is the rest day given to mankind by the Creator in Genesis 2:1-3.

14 - The one day of worship is the sign of God’s creatorship, while the other day of counterfeit worship is the sign of papal control.

“The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of creation. . The mark of the beast is the opposite of this-the observance of the first day of the week. This mark distinguishes those who acknowledge the supremacy of the papal authority from those who acknowledge the authority of God.” -8 Testimonies, 117:3-4.

15 - While the true worshipers of God exalt His creatorship; the other worshipers will attempt to eradicate the true Sabbath.

“The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment - since this is the sign of His creative power and the witness to His claim upon man’s reverence and homage. The wicked will be distinguished by their efforts to tear down the Creator’s memorial, to exalt the Institution of Rome. In the issue of the contest all Christendom will be divided into two great classes -those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark. Although the church and state will unite their power to compel ‘all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond’ (Revelation 13:16), to receive the mark of the beast, yet the people of God will not receive it.”-2 Selected Messages, 55:1 (similar but shorter: Great Controversy, 450:1).

16 -It was only by changing God’s law, that the papacy could appear to exalt itself above God.

“Only by changing God’s law could the papacy exalt itself above God; whoever should understandingly keep the law as thus changed would be giving supreme honor to that power by which the change was made. Such an act of obedience to papal laws would be a mark of allegiance to the pope in the place of God.” -Great Controversy, 446:1.

17 - God’s people will willingly, gladly bear His signature.

“The Israelites placed over their doors a signature of blood, to show that they were God’s property. So the children of God In this age will bear the signature God has appointed. They will place themselves in harmony with God’s holy law. A mark Is placed upon every one of God’s people just as verily as a mark was placed over the doors of the Hebrew dwellings, to preserve the people from the general ruin. God declares, ‘I gave them my Sabbaths, to be a sign between Me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them.’ “-7 Bible Commentary, 668/2:5-669/1:O.

MARK AND SEAL PLACED AT SAME TIME

The Sabbath/Sunday test is such a simple one. All will be required by human law to keep the sun day. Yet God requires that we observe the Seventh-day Sabbath, and work on the other six days. We must rest and worship on the Bible Sabbath, and we can do missionary work on Sunday. But we are not to assemble in weekly worship gatherings on that day. The day we hallow will determine what we will receive: the seal or the mark.

When the national Sunday law is enacted, to knowingly sacredly observe one day is to reject the other. In that crisis, we will individually receive either the seal of God or the mark of the beast.

1 - Each person will receive either the mark or the seal.

“If we receive this mark in our foreheads or in our hands, the judgments pronounced against the disobedient must fall upon us. But the seal of the living God is placed upon those who conscientiously keep the Sabbath of the Lord.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 980/1:2.

2 - Each will receive the mark of deliverance or the mark of the beast.

“The Lord is doing His work. All heaven is astir. The Judge of all the earth is soon to arise and vindicate His insulted authority. The mark of deliverance will be set upon the men who keep God’s commandments, who revere his law, and who refuse the mark of the beast or of his image.” -5 Testimonies, 451:3-452:O.

3 - One class will receive the mark; the other will receive the seal.

“The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty; for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While the observance of the false Sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” -Great Controversy, 605:2.

4 - They are totally different identifying labels; they are two separate marks of opposing authority.

“The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of creation. ‘The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:1213. Here the Sabbath is clearly designated as a sign between God and His people.

“The mark of the beast is the opposite of this -the observance of the first day of the week. This mark distinguishes those who acknowledge the supremacy of the papal authority from those who acknowledge the authority of God.”- 8 Testimonies, 117:4.

5 - Everyone will place himself under one authority or the other.

“In every case, the great decision is to be made whether we shall receive the mark of the ‘beast or his image, or the seal of the living God.” -6 Testimonies, 130:2.

6 - The line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true.

“No one has yet received the mark of the beast. . but when the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit Sabbath. , the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true.” - Manuscript 51, 1899 (Evangelism, 234:2).

7 - It will be a time when each will decide whether he will think Satan’s thoughts after him, -or, instead, stand obedient to God.

“To receive this mark means to come to the same decision as the beast has done, and to advocate the same ideas, in direct opposition to the Word of God.”-7 Bible Commentary, 979/2:5.

8 - Both classes are now preparing. Each of us is either uniting with the world, or drawing closer to God and becoming more like Him.

“Those who are uniting with the world are receiving the worldly mold and preparing for the mark of the beast. Those who are distrustful of self, who are humbling themselves before God and purifying their souls by obeying the truth these are receiving the heavenly mold and preparing for the seal of God.”-5 Testimonies, 216:1.

9 - Your decision regarding the one you will obey-will determine which mark you will receive. And the test will be a simple one: the day on which you worship.

“When you obey the decree that commands you to cease from labor on Sunday and worship God, while you know that there is not a word in the Bible showing Sunday to be other than a common working day, you consent to receive the mark of the beast, and refuse the seal of God.”7 Bible Commentary, 980/1:1 (Evangelism, 235:2).

10 - Some will disobey the beast and obey God. By doing so, they declare themselves to be His followers.

“All who prove their loyalty to God by observing His law, and refusing to accept a spurious Sabbath, will rank under the banner of the Lord God Jehovah, and will receive the seal of the living God.” -Letter 11, 1890.

11 - Some will, by obeying the beast and keeping his pagan worship day, acknowledge his authority.

“This mark [of the beast] distinguishes those who acknowledge the supremacy of the papal authority from those who acknowledge the authority of God.”-8 Testimonies, 117:4.

12 - Ultimately, everyone will decide to be on one side or the other.

“In the issue of the great contest two parties are developed, those who ‘worship the beast and his image,’ and receive his mark, and those who receive ‘the seal of the living God,’ who have the ‘Father’s name written in their foreheads.’ This is not a visible mark.” -7 Bible Commentary, 980/1:4.

13 - A genuine experience with Christ will make all the difference in regard to which decision will be made.

“The sanctification of the Spirit signalizes the difference between those who have the seal of God and those who keep a spurious rest day.

“When the test comes, It will be clearly shown what the mark of the beast is. It is the keeping of Sunday. Those who, after having heard the truth, continue to regard this day as holy bear the signature of the man of sin, who thought to change times and laws.” -7 Bible Commentary, 980/2:2-3.

14 - Rejecting the Sabbath truth-a truth of heavenly origin, -brings one the mark.

“Those who yield the truth of heavenly origin, and accept the Sunday Sabbath, will receive the mark of the beast.” -Letter 11, 1890.

WHICH DECREE BEGINS THE SEALING?

As mentioned in the next quotation, a decree begins the marking and sealing time. But what “decree” is this? Is it the National Sunday Law, or is it some other decree which begins the marking and sealing? The following statements reveal that this “decree” is the National Sunday Law:

1 - The decree begins the marking and sealing.

“What are you doing, brethren, in the great work of preparation? Those who are uniting with the world are receiving the worldly mold and preparing for the mark of the beast. Those who are distrustful of self, who are humbling themselves before God and purifying their souls by obeying the truth-these are receiving the heavenly mold and preparing for the seal of God in their foreheads. When the decree goes forth and the stamp is impressed, their character will remain pure and spotless for eternity..

2 - The mark begins when the decree goes forth.

“Those who would not receive the mark of the beast and his image when the decree goes forth, must have decision now to say, Nay, we will not regard the institution of the beast.” Early Writings, 67:2.

“The [Sunday law; see context] decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly.” -Great Controversy, 605:1.

3 - It is the decree that men must obey the false Sabbath.

“The powers of earth will decree that all. . shall conform to the customs of the church by the observance of the false Sabbath.”-Great Controversy, 604:2.

4 - It is the decree enforcing the papal institution.

“By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness.”-5 Testimonies, 451:1.

5 - It is the decree requiring the worship of the beast.

“The principles necessary for our youth to cultivate must be kept before them. . that when the decree shall go forth, requiring all to worship the beast and his image they may make the right decisions.” -5 Testimonies, 525:2.

6 - It is the decree enforcing the papal Sabbath.

“The assumption of power on the part of our nation in the decree enforcing the papal Sabbath will be a warning to us.” - 5 Testimonies, 464:9.

7 - It is the decree requiring the worship of the beast.

“And the decree goes forth against all those who will not worship the image of the beast.”- 4Testimonies, 251:1.

Note: Why is the national Sunday law sometimes called a decree? A legislative body, such as the U.S. Congress, makes “laws”; a ruler, such as the U.S. president, would normally be the one to issue “decrees.” In addition to being called a “decree,” the Sunday Law is also called an “edict”; see PK 588; 5T 473; 9T 231; and, of course, it is frequently referred to as a “law” (Great Controversy, page 592, CW 97-98, 5T 451, 711-712, 464-465; 9T 230; PK 186; 7BC 975,977; etc.), and “legislation” (6T 18; 7BC 910).

It is well to keep in mind that, in the Inspired Writings, heavy emphasis is placed on the Old Testament type -which is called a decree. This type was Nebuchadnezzar’s decree of Daniel 3, ordering the people to worship the image set up by order of the king. (A second typical decree was that of Haman in Esther 3, ordering the Jews to be slain on a certain day. The antitype of that would be the death decree issued at the general close of probation.) This type-antitype relationship is probably why the national Sunday law is sometimes referred to as a “decree.”

However, as we noted in our extensive Genocide Treaty studies, the order to enforce a treaty would issue from the president, not from the legislature. In addition, as we noted in other studies, if the making of commemorative days was transferred to the Executive Branch (as Congress is in the process of doing), the announcement could be issued as a presidential proclamation, not as a congressional law. Yet the Spirit of Prophecy indicates that it will be the U.S. legislature which will have abandoned principle in enacting the Sunday law (Testimonies To Ministers, page 206), that laws framed by the U.S. legislature will exalt Sunday (7BC 976), and that its actions will be supportive of the papacy (Testimonies To Ministers, page 206).

WHEN THE SUNDAY LAW GOES FORTH,

Throughout the Spirit of Prophecy, we are told of only one government announcement commanding men to worship on Sunday. This is the national Sunday law. This decree will be repeated over and over as the other nations of earth enact their own national Sunday laws.

1 - The marking begins when men knowingly obey. It begins being applied to an individual when he understands the issues involved, yet still keeps Sunday holy, in obedience to the national law.

2 - In order to understand when a person receives the mark of the beast, we must understand six principles:

“[1] No one has yet received the mark of the beast. [2] The testing time has not yet come. There are true Christians in every church, not excepting the Roman Catholic communion. [3] None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. [4] But when the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit Sabbath, and [in the case of those who had not previously heard or understood our message,] [5] the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. [6] Then those who still continue in transgression will receive the mark of the beast.” Evangelism, 234:2-235:O.

3 - We are now, individually, preparing either for the mark: or the seal.

4 - We can now say No to the mark. Indeed, we MUST now say No to the mark; we, who know so much, dare not wait until later to keep God’s Sabbath holy.

“Those who would not receive the mark of the beast and his image when the decree goes forth, must have decision now to say, Nay, we will not regard the institution of the beast.” -Early Writings, 67:2.

5 - The test of the mark is yet future.

“Sunday keeping is not yet the mark of the beast, and will not be until the decree goes forth causing men to worship this idol Sabbath. The time will come when this day will be the test, but that time has not come yet.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 977/2:4.

FAITHFUL WILL BE TESTED BEFORE BEING SEALED

Contrary to what some are teaching, the “probation of the church” has not already closed-because the probation of God’s people does not close until the marking/sealing time. (It is God’s professed people who constitute the “church;” not buildings, committees, organizational charters and policy books, or public gatherings.) The individual closing of probation does not begin until the test of the national Sunday law occurs by its enactment. At that time the image is set up (by the union of churches in the act of coercing the U.S. government into enacting a national Sunday law), to be immediately followed by the sealing and marking time-which will begin with present and former Sabbath keepers, since they already know the issues involved. At that point, probations begin closing.

In a later study in this set, in the section on “Individual Close of Probation,” we will learn that, following enactment of the national Sunday law in a given nation, the probation of individuals will begin closing.

1 - The sequence, according to 7 Bible Commentary, 976, is this: (1) The image of/to the beast is formed (with the enactment of the national Sunday law). (2) Then God’s people are tested, and, according to the decisions made, (3) they are individually sealed or marked. Then (4) their probations close.

“The Lord has shown me clearly that the Image of the beast will be formed before probation closes; for it is to be the great test for the people of God, by which their eternal destiny will be decided. This is the test that the people of God must have before they are sealed. All who prove their loyalty to God by observing His law, and refusing to accept a spurious Sabbath, will rank under the banner of Lord God Jehovah, and will receive the seal of the living God. Those who yield the truth of heavenly origin and accept the Sunday Sabbath, will receive the mark of the beast.” -7 Bible Commentary, 976/1:2-3 (Maranatha, 164:1; cf 2 Selected Messages, 81:O).

2 - The closing work for the church occurs during the sealing time.

“Especially in the closing work for the church, In the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people.” -3 Testimonies, 266:2.

3 - Some are passed by; while others enter.

“But I speak not my own words when I say that God’s Spirit will pass by those who have had their day of test and opportunity, but who have not distinguished the voice of God or appreciated the movings of His Spirit. Then thousands in the eleventh hour will see and acknowledge the truth.” -2 Selected Messages, 16:1.

4 - Some will accept and be saved; while door is closed to others who would not enter.

“The time of God’s destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who have had no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched; His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door Is closed to those who would not enter. Large numbers will be admitted who in these last days hear the truth for the first time.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 979/1:3.

5 - Unless we are daily advancing now, we will not be ready later.

“Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues. We shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 507:1.

6 - No one has yet received the mark.” No one has yet received the mark of the beast.” - Evangelism, 234:2.

“Sunday keeplng is not yet the mark of the beast, and will not be until the decree goes forth causing men to worship this idol Sabbath. The time will come when this day will be the test, but that time has not come yet.” -7 Bible Commentary, 977/2:4.

WHEN A PERSON WILL RECEIVE THE MARK

The mark of the beast has not yet been given to anyone. This will not occur until the three conditions, mentioned above, have occurred: (1) The Sunday Law has been enacted; (2) the issues are individually heard and understood; (3) Sunday sacredness has individually been accepted or rejected.

1 - This is the sequence, according to Evangelism, 234-235: (1) The decree has been given, (2) the issues are understood, (3) each person has chosen one way or the other, and therefore (4) one of the two marks is placed on him.

“The change of the Sabbath is the sign or mark of the authority of the Romish church. Those who, understanding the claims of the fourth commandment, choose to observe the false Sabbath in the place of the true, are thereby paying homage to that power by which alone it is commanded. The mark of the beast is the papal Sabbath, which has been accepted by the world in the place of the day of God’s appointment.

“No one has yet received the mark of the beast. The testing time has not yet come. There are true Christians in every church, not excepting the Roman Catholic communion. None are condemned until they have had the light and have seen the obligation of the fourth commandment. But when the decree shall go forth enforcing the counterfeit Sabbath, and the loud cry of the third angel shall warn men against the worship of the beast and his image, the line will be clearly drawn between the false and the true. Then those who still continue In transgression will receive the mark of the beast.

“With rapid steps we are approaching this period. When Protestant churches shall unite with the secular power to sustain a false religion, for opposing which their ancestors endured the fiercest persecution, then will the papal Sabbath be enforced by the combined authority of church and state. There will be a national apostasy, which will end only in national ruin.”-Evangelism, 234:1235:O.

2 - No mark is applied until the decree goes forth.

3 - According to Evangelism, 235, the sequence is this: (1) The national Sunday law decree is passed. (2) The issues underlying it are individually understood. (3) Each person chooses the day on which he will worship God. (4) He is then individually marked or sealed.

“If the light of truth has been presented to you, revealing the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, showing that there is no foundation in the Word of God for Sunday observance, and yet you still cling to the false Sabbath, refusing to keep holy the Sabbath which God calls ‘My holy day,’ you receive the mark of the beast. When does this take place? When you obey the decree that commands you to cease from labor on Sunday and worship God, while you know that there is not a word in the Bible showing Sunday to be other than a common working day, you consent to receive the mark of the beast, and refuse the seal of God.” -Evangelism, 235:2.

4 - This is the sequence, according to Great Controversy, 449: (1) decree, (2) understand, (3) choose, and then (4) marked.

“Christians of past generations observed the Sunday, supposing that in so doing they were keeping the Bible Sabbath; and there are now true Christians In every church, not excepting the Roman Catholic communion, who honestly believe that Sunday is the Sabbath of divine appointment. God accepts their sincerity of purpose and their integrity before Him.

“But when Sunday observance shall be enforced by law, and the world shall be enlightened concerning the obligation of the true Sabbath, then whoever shall transgress the command of God, to obey a precept which has no higher authority than that of Rome, will thereby honor popery above God. He is paying homage to Rome, and to the power which enforces the institution ordained by Rome. He is worshiping the beast and his image. As men then reject the institution which God has declared to be the sign of His authority, and honor in its stead that which Rome has chosen as the token of her supremacy, they will thereby accept the sign of allegiance to Rome- ‘the mark of the beast.’ And It Is not until the Issue Is thus plainly set before the people, and they are brought to choose between the commandments of God and the commandments of men, that those who continue in transgression will receive ‘the mark of the beast.’ “Great Controversy, 449:1.

5 - Here is another sequence: (1) decree, (2) understand, (3) choose, and then (4) marked.

“Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought. The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that all, ‘both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,’ shall conform to the customs of the church by the observance of the false Sabbath. All who refuse compliance will be visited with civil penalties, and it will finally be declared that they are deserving of death. On the other hand, the law of God enjoining the Creator’s rest-day demands obedience, and threatens wrath against all who transgress its precepts.

“With the Issue thus clearly brought before him, whoever shall trample upon God’s law to obey a human enactment, receives the mark of the beast; he accepts the sign of allegiance to the power which he chooses to obey instead of God. The warning from heaven is, ‘If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation.’ Revelation 14:9-10.” -Great Controversy, 604:2-605:O.

6 - Sequence: (1) Test, (2) choose, then (3) marked.

“The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not.

“While the observance of the false Sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other, choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” Great Controversy, 605:2.

7 - Sequence: (1) Test, (2) understand, (3) choose, then (4) marked.

“God has given men the Sabbath as a sign between Him and them as a test of their loyalty. Those who, after the light regarding God’s law comes to them, continue to disobey and exalt human laws above the law of God in the great crisis before us, will receive the mark of the beast.” -Evangelism, 235:3.

8 - Sequence: (1) Test, (2) understand, (3) choose, and then (4) marked.

Note: The above analysis is very important, because it is now being taught in our denomination that the latter rain and sealing precede the national Sunday law crisis. It is frequently stated in our denominational papers and gatherings that the latter rain is falling somewhere else in the world-as evinced by lots of bap-tisms. (1) If the Sunday law crisis precedes and leads into the other events (including the sealing and latter rain) before the general close of probation, then a terrible crisis is ahead of our denomination! This view, fully supported by the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, is the correct one. (2) If the latter rain and sealing come first, then it is easier to conjecture that we can remain in our sins while we receive the latter rain and are sealed, still continuing in those sins until the second advent -with the denomination experiencing no great crisis over strict obedience to the law of God. This view is incorrect, and is bringing a false hope to many of our people.

SEALING A PROGRESSIVE WORK

The sealing occurs over a period of time (3T 266; Early Writings 58), and all do not receive the seal at the same time (Great Controversy, page 605; 6T 130). Four different factors render it impossible for everyone on earth to instantaneously receive the seal or mark: (1) Each person, in making his intelligent choice, receives either the mark or the seal. So both (the seal and the mark) begin to be placed at the same time. Yet the mark is only placed when the decree is made, the issues are understood, and the decision then made. This produces an inherent delay factor, not only for the mark, but for the final impressing of its counterpart: the seal of God. (But it Is now that we must prepare for the sealing; not later!) (2) Those in the church will understand the issues before the world, so some will be sealed or marked before others. (3) Those sealed will begin taking part in giving the loud cry of the third angel to still others. As other individuals accept (or reject) this message, they too will be sealed (or marked), and on and on it will go. (4) America will lead out in enforcing the decree and imposing the mark, other nations will follow her lead and enact national Sunday laws, until the entire earth is included and it is a universal law. This will produce a fourth delay factor in the placing of the mark/seal.

1 - People throughout the nation and the world are gradually warned, make their decisions, and receive the mark or seal.

“While one class receives the mark of the beast,. . the other receives the seal of God.”

“As the controversy extends into new fields.”

“When the third angel’s message closes. . all who have proved themselves loyal to the Divine precepts have received the seal of the living God.”-Great Controversy, 605:2; 607:1; 613:2.

“Foreign nations will follow the example of the United States. Though she leads out, yet the same crisis will come upon our people in all parts of the world.” -6 Testimonies, 395:1.

ALL WILL BE MARKED OR SEALED

The national Sunday law decree will be the great dividing test, which will separate all into two classes. By their knowing acceptance or rejection of the terms of the decree, all will be sealed by Heaven or marked by the image and the beast.

Several fundamental Issues underlie the Sabbath test:

(1) The moral law of God, including the fourth commandment, is enduring and must be obeyed. (2) It can be obeyed through the enabling grace of Jesus. (3) Indeed, through Christ’s empowering Strength, we can put away all sin and live in perfect harmony with God’s requirements. (4) We can only be healthy, happy, and in favor with God as we do so. (5) The Seventh-day Sabbath is the only true Bible Sabbath, and the only weekly rest-day ever hallowed and commanded by the Lord. Thus, it is the only true “Lord’s Day.” (6) Sunday is only a common working day, which in earlier centuries Rome adopted from paganism and made into a counterfeit holy day. (7) It would be apostasy from God and Bible truth to worship on that day. (8) To knowingly do so would be equivalent to the worship of the papacy -regardless of whatever human power may have commanded that worship. Before this crisis comes to an end, everyone will have decided one way or the other.

1 - Two parties, and only two, will be developed by the crisis.

“In the issue of the great contest, two parties are developed, those who ‘worship the beast and his image’ and receive his mark, and those who receive the seal of the living God.”-7 Bible Commentary, 980/1 :4.

2 - All will take sides.

3 - A line of distinction is drawn between the two classes.

4 - All Christendom will be divided into two classes.

“In the issue of the contest, all Christendom will be divided into two great classes, - those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark.” -Great Controversy, 450:1.

“There can be only two classes. Each party is distinctly stamped, either with the seal of the living God, or with the mark of the beast and his image,”-Last Day Events, 215:1,

5 - There will be separation even within families.

“Those who have been members of the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. ‘They shall be Mine, said the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spares his own son that serves him’ [Malachi 3:17). Those who have been obedient to God’s commandments will unite with the company of the saints in light. They shall enter in through the gates into the city, and have right to the tree of life. ‘The one shall be taken.’ His name shall stand in the book of life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God.” Testimonies to Ministers, 234:2-235:O.

6 - This same test and crisis that Americans will face, will be met by those living in foreign nations.

“Foreign nations will follow the example of the United States. Though she leads out, yet the same crisis will come upon our people in all parts of the world,”- 6 Testimonies, 395:1.

7 - The powers of earth will decree it.

“Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought, The powers of earth, uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that all, ‘both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,’ shall conform to the customs of the church by the observance of the false Sabbath,” -Great Controversy, 604:2.

8 - It will go to all the world.

“The decree enforcing the worship of this day is to go forth to all the world.” -7 Bible Commentary, 976/2:3.

9 - All nations, tongues, and peoples will be commanded to practice it.

“History will be repeated, False religion will be exalted, The first day of the week, a common working day, possessing no sanctity whatever, will be set up as was the image at Babylon, All nations and tongues and peoples will be commanded to worship this spurious Sabbath, This is Satan’s plan to make of no account the day instituted by God, and given to the world as a memorial of Creation.”- Maranatha, 214:1,

10 - Every country on the globe will follow America’s example.

“As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcing the conscience, and compelling men to honor the false Sabbath, the people of every country on the globe wilt be led to follow her example.”-6 Testimonies, 18:2,

Perfection Of Character

Perfection of character is an aspect in last-day events. This major section should actually be placed prior to the church-state union and the national Sunday law —for that is when it occurs, -but, by locating it here, you will be better able to compare it with five closely related topics: the seal of God, the passing of the judgment to the living, the blotting out of sin, the marriage, and the latter rain. Because all six topics are very closely intertwined and ought to be studied together, they have been placed close together in these last-day event studies.

First comes perfection of character. It is an ongoing process which is occurring now. Then, after the church-state union and the national Sunday law enactment which produces the formation of the image, the judgment passes to the living as men and women make their intelligent decisions to sacredly observe the Bible Sabbath or bow to the child of the papacy.

Then, simultaneously for the righteous, comes the seal of God, blotting out of sin, the marriage in the most holy place, and the latter rain. In contrast, at the same time the wicked make their decision and receive the mark of the beast, an even greater outpouring of satanic zeal and hatred than they had earlier possessed.

Perfection of character is a much-maligned concept, which simply means “obedience to the laws of God through the enabling merits of Jesus Christ.” Those who do not want to fully obey God’s laws, ridicule the idea as “perfectionism.” They want to cling to their cherished sins, and stifle the convictions of the Spirit to forsake them, by declaring that perfect obedience is merely a fanatical idea. For them it is too great a sacrifice to forsake sin for their Lord. They would rather live with the self-deception that they can have both salvation and sin.

But there are others who are very content to cling to Jesus and do all that He asks in His holy Word. That group, in happy submission to their Savior, is putting away their sins by faith in the empowering grace of Jesus Christ.

There are four errors in regard to the overcoming of sin, which should be mentioned here:

Here is the reply to both errors:

Apart from the moment-by-moment help of Jesus Christ our only Savior, we cannot resist temptation, much less put away cherished sin. Of ourselves we can do nothing. But, in and through Christ, we can do all things that He asks of us in His holy Word. Christ is our victory. Looking in faith to Him, we can do all that He asks. At each step He strengthens us for the immediate duty, as we keep our eyes of faith fixed upon Him.

Jesus died to save us from sin. He does this by the impartation of His grace. But He does not give grace today for tomorrow’s need. The grace comes as we accept Him and abide in Him.

We must receive Him and live in Him right now -in order to have His grace right now.

There are two sides to the grace of Christ, just as there are two sides on each coin. Jesus gives us forgiving grace and enabling grace.

Forgiving grace justifies. As we plead humbly, sincerely in prayer for it, our past sin is forgiven, and we are made right in the presence of God just now. Because we are looking to God for forgiveness through Jesus Christ His Son, and because we do it with the earnest, sincere intention to forsake that sin and have nothing more to do with it -we are forgiven, and we know it.

Then we arise and live under empowering grace. Enabling grace sanctifies; it empowers us to live right, obey God’s Word, resist sin, and live kindly, helpful, unselfish lives -right now.

Will Christ’s enabling grace, given now, help us in the future? No, His grace is like the manna; we cannot save it for tomorrow’s needs. Tomorrow we must obtain it fresh from Him as we give ourselves anew to Him tomorrow and live in Him tomorrow. Christianity is a Now experience. That is why we are told that none should ever be taught to feel or think they are “saved.” We can be in Christ right now, because that is a Now experience. But we cannot be saved right now, because that is a death or end-of-probation experience. The future is not ours; only the present. Live the present right, and you need not concern yourself about the future. That is the message of Matthew 6:34. The act of salvation or redemption does not come until the end -if, in Christ, we have been faithful to the end. There is only one path to heaven, and it is by way of the cross and the sanctuary. Daily we pick up our cross, trust and obey (which is obey by trust), and follow Christ into the sanctuary in heaven where He ministers His grace anew to us.

It should be noted here that those who want to remain in their sins use a fallacious argument in condemning those who are seeking, in Christ, to put theirs away. The false argument (found today in certain denominational books) is that no one can resist or put away sin prior to the Second Advent (when Christ will instantly, totally eradicate them), because Jesus helps no one do it before then, and those who try to do it are doing so in their own strength -and are therefore legalists, reprobate, and condemned of God for attempting to do so.

That is a vicious, evil theory. Because some professed Christians love sin, they devise theories to explain away their bondage in sin -in a futile attempt to make it appear a godly pursuit to indulge wickedness. In order to excuse their own chains as “spiritual links to Christ,” they would try to bind everyone else hope-lessly in sin. Yet the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy teach the importance of putting away sin now, and the means through Christ by which it can be done now.

Now it is true that the record of the sins of the faithful will be cancelled when the investigative judgment passes to their names. But that occurs only because those individuals had, in the strength of Christ, earlier put away the sin. It is now that we are to put away sin, in preparation for that time when our cases will come up in the judgment.

God’s Word is very clear on when sin must be removed from our lives. Spirit of Prophecy statements, as given in two of our earlier tracts, clearly disprove the errors. You Can Overcome [IC-1] clearly reveal that our sins CAN be eliminated and that it is NOW that we must put them away. The Center of the Crisis [IC-2] show that they must be put away prior to the sealing, latter rain, close of probation, and second advent of Christ.

In contrast to these errors, in this present study, below, it is quite clear that, in the strength of Christ, our sins must be put away NOW -before the Sunday law crisis begins. This is a daily work, and, frankly, it is a sweet work. Our happiest hours are when we live in conscious approval by our kind heavenly Father. He is so good to us, and we are so happy to please the One we love so much. The wicked can denounce us as “legalists,” but we are quite content to live close to Jesus, and dwell in the cleft of such a mighty Rock of protection and enabling.

But BEWARE OF SUCH PEOPLE!

The Spirit of Prophecy statements are clear that the closer we come Christ, the more we will sense our inadequacies, frailness, and great need of His enabling grace. We are told that those who live the closest to God are the last to parade their virtues or tell men they are sinless.

God’s people can draw very close to God as His trusting children, and then be deluded into accepting this false teaching that they are now perfect. Instantly, Satan enters their mind. We know of instances in which Christian wives accept this teaching and, within a week, leave their husbands and have sexual relations with the itinerant “perfect man” who took over their minds. They were deluded into forsaking Scripture and trust in Christ, and instead placing their faith in the words of a “holy man” they had never met before.

Friend, apart from Christ you are nothing! Apart from Him you are lost and a captive of Satan. In Christ, you are His obedient child. Only through His strength can you depart from a single sin; only by His continual help can you resist a single temptation. Do not forsake Christ and humble, ongoing obedience to His Word-because someone comes along and supposedly offers you a quicker, easier way. In turning to follow him, you have forsaken the cross and the sanctuary. You have lain down the cross of ongoing resistance of sin, and you have left the heavenly sanctuary where your High Priest strengthens you moment-by-moment for the battle to cling to Him.

What is genuine Christian experience like? It is like the three-year-old child which clings close to its mother’s side, holding tightly to her hand, as together they cross a busy street in heavy traffic.

No one, NO ONE who is a genuine disciple of Christ will ever speak of his sinlessness or tell others they can instantly put away their sins forever. Would you know the true road to heaven? Then spend time each day reading in the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, and you will not be misled.

When you find yourself in a group where error is being taught, get out of there as quickly as you can! But utter a warning before you leave; plead with your friends and loved ones to leave also. LOR is one of the groups teaching the error of instant removal of sin (see our tracts on LOR). Those accepting that teaching have their minds captured by Satan that very night. Ellen White confronted such teachers early in her ministry. She found that such people were deeply involved in secret adulteries with those they were not married to. Recently a LOR group (which said they were not from LOR) came to a small East Coast town. They captured several faithful Advent believers, and, shortly after, one of them (a man who had left his own wife and child in Georgia several years before) had sexual relations with one of the captured wives. We know of other experiences elsewhere. When a man tries to become his own god, he becomes a hopeless captive of Satan.

The following material has been excerpted from two tracts compiled by the present author in the spring of 1980: You Can Overcome llC-1] and Center of the Crisis llC-2].

The central issue in the coming crisis is not Sunday-keeping, nor is it the Sabbath. It is obedience to the Word of God. You will find the following study to be intensely interesting.

PREPARATION FOR HIS SECOND COMING

“ ‘When the fruit is brought forth, immediately He puts in the sickle, because the harvest is come.’ Christ is waiting with longing desire for the manifestation of Himself in His church. When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced In His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.

“It is the privilege of every Christian not only to look for but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 Peter 3:12, margin. Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last great harvest would be ripened, and Christ would come to gather the precious grain.”-Christ’s Object Lesson, 69:1-2.

It is clear that the truth is that Christ is waiting for us to put away our sins. In strong contrast, the error being taught by many today is that Christ is waiting for us to accept the fact that sin cannot be put away in this life. By doing so, we will become “righteous in Christ” and prepared for the Second Advent.

The truth is that the righteousness of Christ does not cover known, unforsaken sins! Yes, only Christ can take away our sins, but He will not do it without our cooperation. We must strive against temptation -and

put our will to the task. But, without a total dedication to Jesus, that striving and willing is useless. It is the cooperative venture that succeeds; Jesus will not do it for us without our willingness and effort, and we can never, never do it without His mighty power. The part that Jesus does is infinitely great, and the part we do is infinitely small; yet without that our small part, victory and purity will not be obtained.

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE

2 - A most powerful passage -one of the most important in Great Controversy -is found on pages 423-425 of that book. It explains our special work, and the reason for the delay. You will want to read it carefully:

“The subject of the Sanctuary was the key which unlocked the mystery of the disappointment of 1844. It opened to view a complete system of truth, connected and harmonious, showing that God’s hand had directed the great advent movement and revealing present duty as it brought to light the position and work of His people. . Light from the Sanctuary illumined the past, the present, and the future..

“But the people were not yet ready to meet their Lord. There was still a work of preparation to be accomplished for them. Light was to be given, directing their minds to the temple of God in heaven; and as they should by faith follow their High Priest in His ministration there, new duties would be revealed. Another message of warning and instruction was to be given to the church.

“Says the prophet: ‘Who may abide the day of His coming? and who shall stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: and He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.’ Malachi 3:2, 3. Those who are living upon the earth when the Intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14.

“When this work shall have been accomplished, the followers of Christ will be ready for His appearing. ‘Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in former years.’ Malachi 3:4. Then the church which our Lord at His coming is to receive to Himself will be a ‘glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.’ Ephesians 5:27. Then she will look ‘forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.’ Song of Solomon 6:10.” -Great Controversy, 423:1, 424:4, 425:2.

Note: The above three pages contains the heart of the message of the book, Great Controversy. It is clear from the above passage that the “special duty” of the Advent people is to OBEY THE LAW OF GOD. That is what “character perfection” is all about. But that is understandable, -for that is the basic issue in the great controversy between Christ and Satan. There is nothing complicated here, nothing confusing. It is simply a matter of obeying the words of God, as given in His Inspired Writings. We would do well to read the above passage over and over again.

THE AIM SET BEFORE US

“None need fail of attaining, in his sphere, to perfection of Christian character. By the sacrifice of Christ, provision has been made for the believer to receive all things that pertain to life and godliness. God calls upon us to reach the standard of perfection and places before us the example of Christ’s character. In His humanity, perfected by a life of constant resistance of evil, the Savior showed that through co-operation with Divinity, human beings may In this life attain to perfection of character. This is God’s assurance to us that we, too, may obtain complete victory.” -Acts of the Apostles, 531:2

“We are not yet perfect; but it is our privilege to cut away from the entanglements of self and sin, and advance to perfection. Great possibilities, high and holy attainments, are placed within the reach of all.” - Acts of Apostles, 565:01.

“Christ came that He might recreate the image of God in man.”-Desire of Ages, 478:2.

“God will accept only those who are determined to aim high. He places every human agent under obligation to do his best. Moral perfection is required of all. Never should we lower the standard of righteousness in order to accommodate inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrongdoing. We need to understand that imperfection of character is sin. All righteous attributes of character dwell in God as a perfect, harmonious whole, and every one who receives Christ as a personal Savior is privileged to possess these attributes.”- Christ Object Lessons, 330:2.

PERFECTION OF CHARACTER

“As was Enoch’s must be their holiness of character who shall be redeemed from among men at the Lord’s second coming,”-8 Testimonies, 331:3.

“We can never see our Lord in peace, unless our souls are spotless. We must bear the perfect Image of Christ. . We shall never attain to this condition without earnest effort. We must strive daily against outward evil and inward sin, if we would reach the perfection of Christian character.”- Review, May 30, 1882, para. 1.

“When Christ shall come, our vile bodies are to be changed, and made like His glorious body; but the vile character will not be made holy then. The transformation of character must take place before His coming. Our natures must be pure and holy; we must have the mind of Christ, that He may behold with pleasure His image reflected upon our souls.”-Our High Calling, 278:3.

IT MUST BE OBTAINED NOW

“When He comes He is not to cleanse us of our sins, to remove from us the defects in our characters, or to cure us of the infirmities of our tempers and dispositions. If wrought for us at all, this work will all be accomplished before that time. When the Lord comes, those who are holy will be holy still. Those who have preserved their bodies and spirits in holiness, in sanctification and honor, will then receive the finishing touch of immortality. But those who are unjust, unsanctified, and filthy will remain so forever. No work will then be done for them to remove their defects and give them holy characters. The Refiner does not then sit to pursue His refining process and remove their sins and their corruption. This is all to be done in these hours of probation. It is now that this work is to be accomplished for us.” -2 Testimonies 355:1.

“Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our Savior be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But Christ declared of Himself: ‘The prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me.’ John 14:30. Satan could find nothing in the Son of God that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father’s commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand in the time of trouble.

“It is In this life that we are to separate sin from us, through faith in the atoning blood of Christ. . None can neglect or defer this work but at the most fearful peril to their souls.”-Great Controversy, 623:1-2.

“Had not Jacob previously repented of his sin in obtaining the birthright by fraud, God would not have heard his prayer and mercifully preserved his life. So, in the time of trouble, if the people of God had unconfessed sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have confidence to plead with God for deliverance. But while they have a deep sense of their unworthiness, they have no concealed wrongs to reveal. Their sins have gone beforehand to judgment and have been blotted out, and they cannot bring them to remembrance,” -Great Controversy, 620:1.

“Satan leads many to believe that God will overlook their unfaithfulness in the minor affairs of life; but the Lord shows in His dealings with Jacob that He will in no wise sanction or tolerate evil.’ All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession and the more honourable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in the sight of God and the more sure the triumph of their great adversary. Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it In the time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hopeless.” -Great Controversy, 620:2.

“The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. . All who receive the seal must be without spot before God.” -5 Testimonies, 216:2.

“What are you doing, brethren, in the great work of preparation? Those who are uniting with the world are receiving the worldly mold and preparing for the mark of the beast. Those who are distrustful of self, who are humbling themselves before God and purifying their souls by obeying the truth, these are receiving the heavenly mold and preparing for the seal of God in their foreheads. When the decree goes forth and the stamp is impressed, their character will remain pure and spotless for eternity.

“Now is the time to prepare. The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God -candidates for heaven.” -5 Testimonies, 216:2. [Carefully read the following passages for a clearer understanding of the experience of the people of God at this time: 5 Testimonies 207-216, 467-476, Early Writings 269-271.]

THE SEAL OF GOD

“Are we striving with all our power to attain to the stature of men and women in Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever pressing toward the mark set before us -the perfection of His character? When the Lord’s people reach this mark, they will be sealed in their foreheads. Filled with the Spirit, they will be complete in Christ, and the recording angel will declare, ‘It is finished.’ “-Our High Calling, 150:6.

“Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It Is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost.” -5 Testimonies, 214:2.

“I saw that none could share the ‘refreshing’ unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action.” Early Writings, 71:2.

“Those who come up to every point, and stand every test and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation.” -1 Testimonies, 187:1.

THE LATTER RAIN AND SEALING

“I also saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the Image of Jesus fully.

in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God.” - Early Writings, 71:1-2.

WE MUST PREPARE NOW

“We believe without a doubt that Christ Is soon coming. This Is not a fable to us; it’s a reality. We have no doubt, neither have we had a doubt for years, that the doctrines we hold today are present truth, and that we are nearing the judgment. We are preparing to meet Him who, escorted by a retinue of holy angels, is to appear in the clouds of heaven to give the faithful and the just the finishing touch of immortality.” -2 Tes-timonies, 355:1.

“It Is a solemn thing to die, but a far more solemn thing to live. Every thought and word and deed of our lives will meet us again. What we make of ourselves in probationary time, that we must remain to all eternity. Death brings dissolution to the body, but makes no change in the character. The coming of Christ does not change our characters; It only fixes them forever beyond all change.” -5 Testimonies, 466:2.

“Make your home atmosphere fragrant with tender thoughtfulness. If you have become estranged and have failed to be Bible Christians, be converted; for the character you bear in probationary time will be the character you will have at the coming of Christ. If you would be a saint in heaven, you must first be a saint on earth. The traits of character you cherish in life will not be changed by death or by the resurrection. You will come up from the grave with the same disposition you manifested in your home and in society. Jesus does not change the character at His coming. The work of transformation must be done now. Our daily lives are determining our destiny.” -Adventist Home, 16:2.

“God’s ideal for His children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. ‘Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.’ This command is a promise. The plan of redemption contemplates our complete recovery from the power of Satan. Christ always separates the contrite soul from sin. He came to destroy the works of the devil, and He has made provision that the Holy Spirit shall be imparted to every repentant soul, to keep him from sinning. The ideal of Christian character is Christ likeness. As the Son of man was perfect in His life, so His followers are to be perfect in their life.” -Desire of Ages, 311:2, 4..

“He who enters heaven must have a character that is without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. Naught that defileth can ever enter there. In all the redeemed host not one defect will be seen.”-Messages to Young People, 144:2.

“God requires perfection of His children. His law Is a transcript of His own character, and it is the standard of all character. This infinite standard is presented to all that there may be no mistake in regard to the kind of people whom God will have to compose His kingdom.”-Christ Object Lessons, 315:1.

“The very Image of God is to be reproduced in humanity. The honor of God, the honor of Christ, is involved in the perfection of the character of His people.”-Desire of Ages, 671:3.

“Everyone who by faith obeys God’s commandments, will reach the condition of sinlessness in which Adam lived before his transgression.” -Maranatha, 224:5.

“Those only who through faith in Christ obey all of God’s commandments will reach the condition of sinlessness in which Adam lived before his transgression. They testify to their love of Christ by obeying all His precepts.” -8 Manuscript Releases, 99:2.

“And while we cannot claim perfection of the flesh, we may have Christian perfection of the soul.” -2 Selected Messages, 32:3.

THE JUDGMENT OF THE LIVING

“The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the judgment. . Every man’s work passes in review before God, and is registered for faithfulness or unfaithfulness. Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered, with terrible exactness, every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin. . Jesus will appear as their advocate, to plead in their behalf before God. . ‘Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.’ “-Great Controversy, 482:2, 1,4.

“As the books of record are opened in the judgment, the lives of all who have believed on Jesus come in review before God. Beginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation, and closes with the living. . When any have sins remaining upon the books of record, unrepented of and unforgiven, their names will be blotted out of the book of life, and the record of their good deeds will be erased from the book of God’s remembrance. The Lord declared to Moses: ‘Whosoever hath sinned against Me, him will I blot out of My book.’ Exodus 32:33.” -Great Controversy, 483:1.

“All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be In harmony with the law of God,--their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares,. . ‘I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions . .’ Said Jesus, ‘He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.’ “-Great Controversy, 483:2.

“The divine Intercessor presents the plea that all who have overcome through faith in His blood be forgiven their transgressions, that they be restored to their Eden home, and crowned as Joint heirs with Himself to ‘the first dominion.’ Micah 4:8. Satan in his efforts to deceive and tempt our race had thought to frustrate the divine plan in man’s creation; but Christ now asks that this plan be carried Into effect as if man had never fallen.” -Great Controversy, 484:O.

JESUS IS PLEADING FOR US

“Jesus does not excuse their sins, but shows their penitence and faith, and, claiming for them forgiveness, He lifts His wounded hands before the Father and the holy angels, saying: I know them by name. I have graven them on the palms of My hands. . Thus will be realized the complete fulfillment of the new-covenant promise: ‘I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.’ “-Great Controversy, 484:2-485:1.

“The work of the Investigative judgment and the blotting out of sin is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. . Sins that have not been repented of and forsaken will not be pardoned and blotted out of the books of record, but will stand to witness against the sinner in the day of God.”-Great Controversy, 485:2, 486:2.

THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT

“The sanctuary in heaven is the very center of Christ’s work in behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to view the plan of redemption, bringing us down to the very close of time, and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin. . The Intercession of Christ in man’s behalf in the sanctuary above is as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross.

By His death He began that work which after His resurrection He ascended to complete in heaven. We must by faith enter within the veil, ‘whither the forerunner is for us entered.’ Hebrews 6:20. There the light from the cross of Calvary is reflected. There we may gain a clearer insight into the mysteries of redemption. The salvation of man is accomplished at an infinite expense to heaven; the sacrifice made is equal to the broadest demands of the broken law of God. Jesus has opened the way to the Father’s throne, and through His mediation the sincere desire of all who come to Him in faith may be presented before God “If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away. Through defects In the character, Satan works to gain control of the whole mind, and he knows that if these defects are cherished, he will succeed. Therefore he is constantly seeking to deceive the followers of Christ with his fatal sophistry that it is impossible for them to overcome. . Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.

“We are now living in the great day of atonement. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin and humiliation before the Lord, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart. . There is earnest warfare before all who would subdue the evil tendencies that strive for the mastery. The work of preparation is an individual work. We are not saved in groups. The purity and devotion of one will not offset the want of these qualities in another. Though all nations are to pass in judgment before God, yet He will examine the case of each Individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth. Everyone must be tested and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.” –Great Controversy, 488:3-490:O.

THE CONTROVERSY BEGAN OVER OBEDIENCE TO THE LAW

The Controversy began in heaven over the issue of whether obedience to the law was necessary or even possible. Here are but a few of the many statements pertaining to this:

“In Revelation 14, men are called upon the worship the Creator; and the prophecy brings to view a class that, as the result of the threefold message, are keeping the commandments of God.” -Great Controversy, 437:1.

“In contrast to those who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus, the third angel points to another class, against whose errors a solemn and fearful warning is uttered: ‘If any man worship the beast and his Image, and receive his mark.’ “-Great Controversy, 438:1.

“The special characteristic of the beast, and therefore of his image, is the breaking of God’s commandments.” -Great Controversy, 446:1.

“In the issue of the contest all Christendom will be divided into two great classes -those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his Image and receive his mark. Although church and state will unite their power to compel ‘all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond’ (Revelation 13:16), to receive ‘the mark of the beast,’ yet the people of God will not receive it.”-Great Controversy, 450:1.

“The spirit of the papacy [is] the spirit of conformity to worldly customs, the veneration for human traditions above the commandments of God that is permeating the Protestant churches and leading them on to do the same work of Sunday exaltation which the papacy has done before them.”-Great Controversy, 573:1.

“Jesus, looking down to the last generation, saw the world involved in a deception similar to that which caused the destruction of Jerusalem. The great sin of the Jews was their rejection of Christ; the great sin of the Christian world would be their rejection of the law of God, the foundation of His government in heaven and earth.”-Great Controversy, 22:2.

“The last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the long-standing controversy concerning the law of God. Upon this battle we are now entering-a battle between the laws of men and the precepts of Jehovah.” Great Controversy, 582:2.

The Crisis that began the great controversy is the one that will end it. You and I will have a part in that crisis! Will our decision be on God’s side? Will we vindicate His perfect law? Or will we listen to those who love sin so much, they give sermons and write books excusing it? When the crisis is over and the con-troversy is ended, then eternity will begin. It is an eternity that you and I want a part in.

“The cross of Calvary, while it declares the law Immutable, proclaims to the universe that the wages of sin is death. In the Savior’s expiring cry, ‘It is finished,’ the death knell of Satan was rung. The great controversy which had been so long in progress was then decided, and the final eradication of evil was made certain. , When ‘the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; . . all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, said the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.’ Malachi 4:1.

“The whole universe will have become witnesses to the nature and results of sin. And its utter extermination, which in the beginning would have brought fear to angels and dishonor to God, will now vindicate His love and establish His honor before the universe of beings who delight to do His will, and in whose heart is His law. Never will evil again be manifest. Says the word of God: ‘Affliction shall not rise up the second time.’ Nahum 1:9. The law of God, which Satan has reproached as the yoke of bondage, will be honored as the law of liberty. A tested and proved creation will never again be turned from allegiance to Him whose character has been fully manifested before them as fathomless love and infinite wisdom.”-Great Controversy, 503:3-504:1.

The future is bright, as long as we cling to Jesus. He has a wonderful eternity awaiting us. He will lead His flock down through countless ages of peace and happiness. Life without end!

Oh, my friend, we must be there!

Just now it is our task to learn the ways of heaven. Later, we will live there forever. Loyalty and obedience to our God is what that eternity will all be about. Those who do not want it will not be there. Yet it is the only way to be genuinely happy!

I know you want it! May God help us -each one -to be faithful to the end.

The Judgment Of The Living

THE BLOTTING OUT OF SIN

The investigative judgment is the closing work within the heavenly Sanctuary. It focuses on all those who have ever lived on earth, who have professed faith in Christ (Great Controversy, page 428, 422-490), and concerns both the dead and the living (Great Controversy, page 436). This judgment began in 1844 (Great Controversy, page 422, 424, 436) with the cases of dead (Early Writings 280; Great Controversy, page 483,490; 1SM 125). Soon, none know how soon, it will pass to the cases of the living (Great Controversy, page 490; 5T 692). It will end at the general close of probation (Great Controversy, page 436). There is no further probation after It ends (COL 123). The sentencing judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work (Great Controversy, page 480), which will occur during the millennium (Early Writings 52-53, 290291; Great Controversy, page 660-661). All of the wicked receive their sentences during that millennial examination both those who have never professed faith in Christ, and those who falsely did so and were examined during the investigative judgment.

In the investigative judgment, men’s lives will be tested by God’s law (Great Controversy, page 482). It is the standard of the judgment. Through the enabling grace of Christ, every man can obey the law of God, and is required to do so. The only question asked in the investigative judgment is “Have they been obedient to My commandments?” (GW 315, DA 637). The first angel’s message announced the beginning of the judgment (Great Controversy, page 352, 355-356).

The investigative judgment began in 1844 with the cases of the dead. When does it pass to the cases of the living? We know that it will pass to the living before the plagues begin (Testimonies To Ministers, page 446) and the Second Advent occurs (Great Controversy, page 352, 485; COL 310). The following statements in-dicate that the investigative judgment will pass to the cases of the living when men begin making their decisions in regard to the already enacted National Sunday Law:

SUNDAY LAW DECREE BRINGS JUDGMENT

1 - The judgment passes to the living at the time when the mark and seal is given.

“The time devoted to that which does not tend to assimilate the soul to the likeness of Christ is so much time lost for eternity. This we cannot afford, for every moment is freighted with eternal interests. Now, when the great work of judging the living is about to begin, shall we allow unsanctified ambition to take possession of the heart and lead us to neglect the education required to meet the needs in this day of peril?

“In every case the great decision is to be made whether we shall receive the mark of the beast or his image, or the seal of the living God. And now, when we are on the borders of the eternal world, what can be of so much value to us as to be found loyal and true to the God of heaven?” -6 Testimonies, 130:1-2 (5 Testimonies, 526:1 is almost identical).

“It is no time to be ashamed of our faith. We are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. The whole universe is looking with inexpressible interest to see the closing work of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. At such a time as this, just as the great work of judging the living is to begin, shall we allow unsanctified ambition to take possession of the heart? What can be of any worth to us now except to be found loyal and true to the God of heaven? What is there of any real value in this world when we are on the very borders of the eternal world? What education can we give to the students in our schools that is so necessary as a knowledge of ‘What said the Scripture’?” -5 Testimonies, 525:2, 526:1.

2 - In the judgment, one person is retained in the book of life, while another receives the mark of separation.

“The time of the judgment is a most solemn period, when the Lord gathers His own from among the tares. Those who have been members of the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. ‘They shall be Mine, said the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.’

Those who have been obedient to God’s commandments will unite with the company of the saints in light; they shall enter in through the gates into the city, and have right to the tree of life. The one shall be taken. His name shall stand in the book of life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 234:2-235:O.

3 - When does the investigative judgment occur in relation to the sealing? There is a sequential relationship between the judgment, the Sunday Law, and the sealing, as shown in 5 Testimonies 472-475. We will discuss this in the next section in this series, “The Blotting Out of Sin “).

Another relationship is between the judgment and the sifting, which is clearly indicated in 5 Testimonies, 81-82. We discussed that earlier in the study on “The Sifting.”

A person’s probation has to have ended before the judgment can pass to his name. This is to be expected, otherwise the decision in his case would either be unfair or have to continually be re-examined and re-determined. So the judgment can pass to an individual’s case only after his personal probation has closed.

In 1844 it could only begin with the cases of the dead because their probation had closed. When the three-fold deciding factor later occurs (the National Sunday Law is enacted, men know the issues, and they make their choice between Sunday keeping and Sabbath sacredness), then the judgment and marking/sealing can individually occur for them.

So, in summary, this is the sequence:

Several important points should be noted here:

In the little tests of life, character is developed. In the crises of life, the character formed is strikingly revealed (COL 412). Suddenly, all the tests and trials of life will come to their focus -and decisions will quickly be made.

How does judgment relate to the close of probation? As people make their final decision in regard to the enacted national Sunday law, they enter the judgment, are sealed or marked as their destiny is fixed, and their individual probation closes. At a later time, when the last person on earth has entered the judgment, probation for the last human being has ended-and there is no probation for anyone on earth. We call that moment the general close of probation.

Those who receive the seal have made their final decision for eternity and henceforth “are eternally secure from the tempter’s devices” (5T 475:2). They are not only marked with the Seal as God’s special property, but they are filled with His Spirit-which would be a natural accompaniment.

But there is a second pressing reason why that rain must fall. Like the early rain before it, the latter rain is given to empower men and women to proclaim God’s truth to the world. This they do in a loud cry of the third angel’s message. This message has two parts: [1] a most solemn warning to keep the Bible Sabbath in order to avoid receiving the mark of the beast (Rev 14:9-11), and [2] the great truth of Righteousness by Faith (Rev 14:12). And what is that great truth? The fact and experience that, through the enabling strength of Christ, both forgiveness and obedience are freely available to all. (Read again Revelation 14:9-12). That is why righteousness by faith can be termed both “the most fearful threatening ever addressed to mortals” (Great Controversy, page 449:2), and “the third angel’s message in verity” (Evangelism 190:3). The first quotation refers to the first part of the message (Rev 14:9-11), and the second to the last part (Rev 14:12).

THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT

In view of the above information, should we not be able to pinpoint the year when the investigative judgment will begin, or at be able to tell how many months occur between it and some other event? No, it is not possible to set a date for the occurrence of this event, or to determine time spans leading to or away from it. None can know how soon it will pass to the cases of the living (Great Controversy, page 490; 5T 692), and no man know how near we are to the close of it (Great Controversy, page 490-491).

JUDGMENT TO LIVING STILL FUTURE

The judgment has not yet passed to the living. But this is understandable, since the event that would initiate it -the setting up of the image by the enactment of the national Sunday law -has not yet occurred.

It should be noted here that Senator Blair had introduced his Blair Act to the U.S. Congress at the time when the next two statements were penned (around 1887-1888). We were told that -if that act had become the law of the land -it would mean that the judgment was about to pass to the living. (However, in God’s mercy, the Blair Act was never enacted, and Congress has never since tried to enact a national Sunday law.)

1 - The judgment will pass to the living at the time of the national Sunday law.

“It is no time to be ashamed of our faith. We are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. The whole universe is looking with inexpressible interest to see the closing work of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. At such a time as this, just as the great work of Judging the living Is to begin, shall we allow unsanctified ambition to take possession of the heart? What can be of any worth to us now except to be found loyal and true to the God of heaven? What is there of any real value in this world when we are on the very borders of the eternal world?” 5 Testimonies, 526:1.

“Now, when the great work of Judging the living is about to begin. . In every case the great decision is to be made whether we shall receive the mark of the beast or his image, or the seal of the living God.”- 6 Testimonies, 130:1-2.

2 - Now is the time to prepare for the judgment.

“I cannot express to you the intense desire of my soul that you should all seek the Lord most earnestly while He may be found. We are in the day of God’s preparation. Let nothing be regarded as of sufficient worth to draw your minds from the work of preparing for the great Day of Judgment. Get ready. Let not cold unbelief hold your souls away from God, but let His love burn on the altar of your hearts.” -5 Testimonies, 590:2.

JUDGED BY THE LIGHT WE HAVE RECEIVED

1 - In the investigative judgment, all will be judged by how they acted in relation to what they knew.

“All must wait for the appointed time, until the warning shall have gone to all parts of the world, until sufficient light and evidence have been given to every soul. Some will have less light than others, but each one will be judged according to the light received.”-Last Day Events, 217:1.

“Many who have not had the privileges that we have had will go into heaven before those who have had great light and who have not walked in it. Many have lived up to the best light they have had and will be judged accordingly.” Last Day Events, 216:9.

“We have been given great light in regard to God’s law. This law is the standard of character. To it man is now required to conform, and by it he will be judged in the last great day. In that day men will be dealt with according to the light they have received.”-Last Day Events, 217:2.

“Those who have had great light and have disregarded it stand in a worse position than those who have not been given so many advantages. They exalt themselves but not the Lord. The punishment inflicted on human beings will in every case be proportionate to the dishonor they have brought on God.”-8 Manuscript Releases, 168.

“Everyone is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently.”-Great Controversy, 605:1.

2 - No one will be judged on the basis of light they did not have opportunity to accept.

“None will be condemned for not heeding light and knowledge that they never had, and they could not obtain. But many refuse to obey the truth that is presented to them by Christ’s ambassadors, because they wish to conform to the world’s standard, and the truth that has reached their understanding, the light that has shone in the soul, will condemn them in the judgment.” 5 Bible Commentary, 1145/1:3.

“Those who have an opportunity to hear the truth and yet take no pains to hear or understand it, thinking that if they do not hear they will not be accountable, will be judged guilty before God the same as if they had heard and rejected. There will be no excuse for those who choose to go in error when they might understand what is truth. In His sufferings and death Jesus has made atonement for all sins of ignorance, but there is no provision made for willful blindness.

“We shall not be held accountable for the light that has not reached our perception, but for that which we have resisted and refused. A man could not apprehend the truth which had never been presented to him, and therefore could not be condemned for light he had never had.” 5 Bible Commentary, 1145/1:1-2.

THE HINGE OF THE JUDGMENT

1 - A key decision in the investigative judgment will turn upon practical benevolence: Have we really tried to minister to the needs of those around us, or did we just live selfish lives? In that day, the question will focus on what we have done to help others.

“The decisions of the last day turn upon our practical benevolence. Christ acknowledges every act of beneficence as done to Himself.” Testimonies to Ministers, 400:O.

“When the nations are gathered before Him, there will be but two classes, and their eternal destiny will be determined by what they have done or have neglected to do for Him in the person of the poor and suffering.

“Among the heathen are those who worship God ignorantly, those to whom the light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not perish. Though ignorant of the written

law of God, they have heard His voice speaking to them in nature, and have done the things that the law re-quired. Their works are evidence that the Holy Spirit has touched their hearts, and they are recognized as the children of God.

“How surprised and gladdened will be the lowly among the nations, and among the heathen, to hear from the lips of the Savior, ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me’! How glad will be the heart of Infinite Love as His followers look up with surprise and joy at His words of approval!”- Desire of Ages, 637:1, 638:2-3.

2 - Motives as well as actions will be considered in the judgment. God values sincere, heartfelt efforts are what counts.

“In the day of judgment some will plead this good deed and that as a reason why they should receive consideration. They will say, ‘I set up young men in business. I gave money to found hospitals. I relieved the necessities of widows, and took the poor into my home.’ Yes, but your motives were so defiled by selfishness that the deed was not acceptable in the sight of the Lord. In all that you did, self was brought prominently to view.” -Last Day Events, 219:2.

“It is the motive that gives character to our acts, stamping them with ignominy or with high moral worth.”-Desire of Ages, 615:3.

NATURE AND TIMING OF

The blotting out of sin is one of the cluster of events which begins just after the enactment of the national Sunday law, and concludes at the general close of probation. It is described in a number of passages, but especially in two.

First, the work of the investigative judgment is carefully explained in chapter 28 of Great Controversy (479-491). As part of the procedure, the sins of the righteous will be blotted out of the book of sin (481:2; 483:1-2; 485:12). This removal is called, ‘the blotting out of sin.”

Second, we have the 5 Testimonies, 472-475, description of the Zechariah 3 “Joshua and the angel vision.” In that 5 Testimonies chapter, the Zechariah 3 vision is applied to last-day events. In that explanation, it is clear that the conclusion of the antitypical atonement (which would include the passing of the investigative judgment to the cases of the living) occurs during the national Sunday law, the sealing, and the blotting out of sins or names:

The investigative judgment chapter in Great Controversy (chapter 28) adds still more information about this blotting out:

Each of those investigated in this judgment will either be declared righteous and have his sins blotted out of the book of sin and his name retained in the book of life, OR he will be declared wicked and have his sins retained In the book of sin and his name written into the book of death, along with the wicked who never professed faith in Christ. (Thoughtfully read Great Controversy, page 482-487; it is basic to an understanding of the blotting out experience.)

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE BLOTTING OUT

1 - The “blotting out” for the righteous means that their sins are blotted out of the records in heaven, and their names are not blotted out of those records.

“All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life. The Lord declares, by the prophet Isaiah, ‘I, even I am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.’ Said Jesus: ‘He that overcomes, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.’ “-Great Controversy, 483:2.

2 - This blotting out will be the culmination of a wonderful plan of God for His people.

“Satan in his efforts to deceive and tempt our race, had thought to frustrate the divine plan in man’s creation; but Christ now asks that this plan be carried into effect, as if man had never fallen. He asks for His people not only pardon and justification, full and complete, but a share in His glory and a seat upon His throne.” -Great Controversy, 484:O.

3 - Not only will the sins of the faithful be blotted out of the records, -they will also be blotted out of God’s memory! He will never again choose to recall the past sins and errors of the redeemed. And, of course, if He will not recall those sins, it would be unlikely in the extreme for anyone else to be able to recall them.

“Christ will clothe His faithful ones with His own righteousness, that He may present them to His Father ‘a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.’ Ephesians 5:27. Their names stand enrolled in the book of life, and concerning them it is written: ‘They shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy.’ Revelation 3:4.

“Thus will be realized the complete fulfillment of the new covenant promise: ‘I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. ‘ ‘In those days, and in that time, said the Lord, the iniquity of Israel shall be sought for, and there shall be none; and the sins of Judah, and they shall not be found Jeremiah 31:34; 50:20.”Great Controversy, 484:2-485:1.

4 - Here is the blotting out experience in more detail. Keep in mind that we are here viewing basic aspects of the sealing:

“Zechariah’s vision of Joshua and the Angel applies with peculiar force to the experience of God’s people In the closing up of the great day of atonement..

“As the people of God afflict their souls before Him, pleading for purity of heart, the command is given, ‘Take away the filthy garments’ from them, and the encouraging words are spoken, ‘Behold, I have caused your iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.‘ The spotless robe of Christ’s righteousness is placed upon the tried, tempted, yet faithful children of God. The despised remnant are clothed in glorious apparel, nevermore to be defiled by the corruptions of the world. Their names are retained In the Lamb’s book of life, enrolled among the faithful of all ages. They have resisted the wiles of the deceiver; they have not been turned from their loyalty by the dragon’s roar. Now they are eternally secure from the tempter’s devices. Their sins are transferred to the originator of sin. And the remnant are not only pardoned and accepted, but honored. ‘A fair miter’ is set upon their heads. They are to be as kings and priests unto God. While Satan was urging his accusations and seeking to destroy this company, holy angels, unseen were passing to and fro, placing upon them the seal of the living God.”-5 Testimonies, 472:2; 475:2.

ACCOMPANY THE LATTER RAIN

1 - The Acts 3 sequence is this: Blotting out, latter rain, second advent. In the context of the blotting out event in the investigative judgment, Acts 3:19-20 is quoted:

“The apostle Peter distinctly states that the sins of believers will be blotted out ‘when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus Christ.’ Acts 3:19-20.” -Great Controversy, 485:2.

2 - The 1888 edition of Great Controversy included a very significant, bracketed comment. It would even more closely connect the Acts 3 “blotting out” with the work of the investigative judgment:

“‘Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out [In the Investigative Judgment], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus,’ Acts 3:19,20,”-1888 edition of Great Controversy, 611:3-612:O.

3 - The latter rain and blotting out experience are closely related:

“The work [during the proclamation of the third angel’s message in a loud cry to all the world] will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the ‘former rain’ was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the up-springing of the precious seed, so the ‘latter rain’ will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest.

‘Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.’ Hosea 6:3. ‘Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.’ Joel 2:23. ‘In the last days, said God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh.’ ‘And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved,’ Acts 2:17,21.

“The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at Its close. Here are ‘the times of refreshing’ to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said: ‘Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus.’ Acts 3:19-20.”-Great Controversy, 611:2-612:O.

SUMMARY DISCUSSION

In summary, we may say this:

attention is directed to the blotting out experience of the living righteous in the final crisis of the Sunday law.

This special cluster of events is as follows: sifting, sealing, judgment to the living, blotting out of sin, the marriage, and latter rain.

Although the faithful will stand true, false professors will be sifted out, God’s true ones will be sealed, while others will be marked. This sealing process involves five aspects, which immediately lead into a sixth: [1] The person about to be sealed (or marked) has, as a result of a lifetime of choices, just made his knowing decision for or against God’s side in the controversy. [2] At that moment, the judgment passes to his name. [3] That person’s decision results in his name being retained in the book of life and his sins being blotted out of the book of sin, or his sins retained in the book of sin, his name blotted out of the book of life, and his name enrolled, along with other wicked, in the book of death. [4] The faithful ones then enter the marriage (more on this in the next section), and [5] they receive the latter rain. The latter rain provides outward evidence of the inward seal, and prepares them to give the final warning to mankind. [6] Fully sealed with the seal of the living God, they then go out and begin to give the loud cry to the undecided.

These factors dovetail because they are all part of the same sealing event.

As soon as the national Sunday law is enacted, professed and former Sabbath keepers will immediately be brought to the test, probably within a week or two at the most. If you want to see a sifting in the church, you surely will see it then! (By “church,“ we mean professed Sabbathkeepers; we are nowhere told that the denomination will have any apparent leaders or other earthly organizational features after the Sunday law is enacted by a nation.)

Immediately, as each individual makes his decision, he will receive the sealing or marking experience. Then still others will receive the sealing or marking. Those sealed, having received the latter rain, will go out and give the final warning of the third angel with a loud cry -in the full power of the Holy Spirit. Amid exhibitions of the full power of the Holy Spirit, on one hand, and the wonder-working fakeries of Satan, on the other, more and still more individuals will make their decisions, and the sealing/marking will finally end when the last person on earth has made his irrevocable decision.

Before concluding this study, it would be well to consider two points. The first is especially important. Yes, it is clear that the sins of God’s living, faithful ones are blotted out of the sin records in the sanctuary above. But two questions remain:

(1) Are the sins also blotted out of our experience at that time? In other words, do we stop sinning in an instant at that point in time? This was the teaching of Robert Brinsmead in the early 1960s. (Because of his original sin theory, he did not believe that sin could be eliminated until the judgment of the living.) But that is an error. The Spirit of Prophecy is clear that sin must be put away NOW. We are not to wait until the latter rain to have our sins eradicated (Early Writings, 71). In the strength of God, we must be done with the hateful thing in these days of probation before the crisis breaks upon us all.

Read again chapter 28 of Great Controversy- (Pages 479-491). The sins of the faithful will be blotted out of the books of record in heaven. We are also told that they will also be blotted out of God’s mind. But there is no hint that the actual sinning of the faithful will continue up to that point. There is no indication that our commission of sins will not stop until then.

(2) Are the sins blotted out of the memory of the sealed ones at that time? I know the sins I have committed. If I am alive at that time, and am accounted worthy of the sealing, -will I immediately forget my past sins?

According to the Great Controversy statement, it would appear that, at that very time and as part of the blotting out, God will no longer recall my sins:

If God will not remember them, will the faithful be to remember them later either? It would appear that they will not.

Although, over the years, many have wondered about this point, we should keep in mind that it is not important enough to argue over. There are too many aspects of coming events which are far more crucial. But the blotting out experience is a point of interest.

We have an interesting comment on this in Great Controversy, 616-622. After the general close of probation, during the Jacob’s trouble experience, God’s people try to recall sins that they should confess, but are not able to do so. Jacob “confesses his weakness and unworthiness” (617:O), but it is of interest that he confesses no sins. He is repentant for his past life, but no specific confession of sin is made. At that time, Satan endeavors to force upon him a sense of guilt, but Jacob had already sincerely repented of his sin. As he did with Joshua in Zechariah 3, Satan also urges his accusations against Jacob. Thus the finale of the Joshua and the angel experience (Zechariah 3; 5 Testimonies, 472-475) is similar to the duration of the later Jacob’s trouble experience (Genesis 32:24-30; Great Controversy, 616-622). The Joshua experience culminates in the sealing and blotting out experience; while Jacob’s experience is a continuation, after the close of probation, of that blotting out experience.)

It would appear that, although God’s people later feel their great unworthiness, they do not afterward bring to memory their earlier sins. Although, in this life, we may never understand every detail of this experience, the following statement would indicate that the blotting out experience in the sealing time does indeed result in a forgetting of specific sins from the minds of God’s faithful ones:

In this study, we have considered two topics: the passing of the judgment to the living, and the blotting out of sin. They are two of several events which all begin occurring together:

The sealing

The judgment to the living

The blotting out of sin

The marriage in the most holy place

The latter rain

The loud cry

In this present set of videos, we have covering each of these topics -and many more.

When it is all over, and Christ has returned for His own, they will live forever with Him. Oh, my friend, we must be there! Obedience to God, obedience to His Inspired Word is better than anything else that anyone could offer -even now and here. But life with Christ in the eternity beyond -makes it even more crucial!

May our kind Father in heaven guide and care for you in the days ahead. We are so rapidly nearing that crisis. We dare not forsake God and His Word now.

The Marriage In The Most Holy Place

At times in Scripture, marriage is presented as a symbol of the union of Christ with His people -a relationship that is in fullest harmony of thought and purpose. The antitypical marriage occurs as the judgment passes to someone’s name and he or she is accepted and sealed. Then, at His coming, Jesus takes His people to heaven and they partake in the marriage supper of the Lamb. Forever after they will be with Him. At the sealing, they are not only marked as His property and forever sealed off from sin, -they are also joined to Him in a close relationship which, in heaven, even the angels will not experience.” Christ in us the hope of glory” will in heaven reach its greatest fulfillment. God’s faithful ones will share in the “en Chrlstos” experience throughout all eternity. This symbol of “bone of His bone, and flesh of His flesh” illustrates the tender affection and care that God has for His people.

(None of this, of course, refers to a physical, sexual relationship! There will be no marriage relationships in heaven, we are told [MM 99-100; 1SM 172-173; 2SM 25-26].)

The following study, on the marriage in the most holy place, will include a variety of introductory and explanatory material which will take us somewhat into the Sanctuary service. For a much fuller understanding of the Sanctuary Message, you will want to read the present writer’s compilation, The Sanctuary Message, which is now available in tract book form from us. (Please use the Tractbook Order Sheet to order tract books.) The following material is adapted from section 29 of The Sanctuary Message.

Please note that, in one sense, the faithful are portrayed as guests of the marriage of Christ with His church; in other presentations, they are themselves said to be married to Christ.

Either way, the essential points remain the same. You will find a basic discussion of this in Early Writings 55, 251, 280 and Great Controversy, page 426-428.

In 1844, Jesus the bridegroom went into the most holy place to prepare His people for the marriage.

THE SYMBOL OF THE MARRIAGE

1 - The marriage is completed by the time probation closes.

“[When probation closed for all] Every case had been decided for life or death. While Jesus had been ministering in the sanctuary, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. Christ had received His kingdom, having made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins. The subjects of the kingdom were made up. The marriage of the Lamb was consummated. And the kingdom, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, was given to Jesus and the heirs of salvation, and Jesus was to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.” -Early Writings, 280:1.

2 - In 1844, Christ the bridegroom went into the most holy place to prepare His people for the marriage.

“Christ had come, not to the earth, as they expected, but as foreshadowed in the type, to the most holy place of the temple of God in heaven.”- Great Controversy, 424:1.

“The proclamation, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh,‘ in the summer of 1844, led thousands to expect the immediate advent of the Lord. At the appointed time the Bridegroom came not to earth, as the people expected, but to the Ancient of Days in heaven, to the marriage, the reception of His kingdom.” -Great Controversy, 427:1.

“The coming of Christ as our high priest to the most holy place, for the cleansing of the sanctuary, brought to view in Daniel 8:14; the coming of the Son of Man to the Ancient of Days, as presented in Daniel 7:13; and the coming of the Lord to His temple, foretold by Malachi 3:5, are descriptions of the same event; and this Is also represented by the coming of the bridegroom to the marriage, described by Christ In the parable of the ten virgins, of Matthew 25.” -Great Controversy, 426:1.

3 - The marriage takes place in the Most Holy Place.

“They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage; for it takes place in heaven while they are upon the earth. The followers of Christ are to ‘wait for their Lord, when He will return from the wedding.’ Luke 12:36. But they are to understand His work, and to follow Him by faith as He goes in before God. It is in this sense that they are said to go in to the marriage.” -Great Controversy, 427:1.

4 - The marriage concludes the investigative judgment.

“In the parable of Matthew 22, the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes to see His guests, to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Matthew 22:11, Revelation 7:14. He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.” -Great Controversy, 428:1.

5 - The marriage takes place as probation is closing for the people.

“When the work of investigation shall be ended, when the cases of those who in all ages have professed to be followers of Christ have been examined and decided, then, and not till then, probation will close, and the door of mercy will be shut. Thus in one short sentence, ‘They that were ready went In with Him, to the marriage: and the door was shut,’ we are carried down through the Savior’s final ministration to the time when the great work for man’s salvation shall be completed.” -Great Controversy, 428:2.

“Jesus has risen up and shut the door of the Holy Place of the heavenly Sanctuary and has opened a door into the Most Holy Place and entered in to cleanse the Sanctuary.” - Early Writings, 250:1.

6 - God’s people must also prepare for the marriage.

“Give to God the most precious offering that it is possible for you to make; give Him your heart. He speaks to you saying, ‘My son. My daughter, give Me your heart. Though your sins be as scarlet. I will make them white as snow; for I will cleanse you with My own blood. I will make you members of my family - children of the heavenly King. Take My forgiveness, My peace which I freely give you. I will cloth you with My own righteousness, -the wedding garment, -and make you fit for the marriage supper of the Lamb.

“When clothed in My righteousness, through prayer, through watchfulness, through diligent study of My Word, you will be able to reach a high standard. You will understand the truth, and your character will be molded by a divine influence.” Youth’s Instructor, June 30, 1892.

“God is the husband of His church. The church Is the bride, the Lamb’s wife; Every true believer is a part of the body of Christ. Christ regards unfaithfulness shown to Him by His people as the unfaithfulness of a wife to her husband. We are to remember that we are members of Christ’s body.”-7 Bible Commentary, 985-986.

“The church is the bride of Christ, and her members are to yoke up with their Leader. God warns us not to defile our garments.”-7 Bible Commentary 986.

7 - Summarizing the marriage experience:

It should be noted that the great majority of statements indicate that Christ is married to the church, rather than to individual believers.

In a sense, it is a corporate marriage. He is married to all His people, not to individuals.

Why is this figure used at all? The primary purpose appears to be to show the closeness we will have to Christ in heaven -an experience closer than the angels can have with Him. (1) We were humans and He became human; that humanness forever to be retained. (2) We suffered and overcame in His strength, as He overcame in His Father’s strength. (3) He died to save us, but He did not die for the unfallen angels or the sinless beings on other worlds. (4) Just as the bride stays with her husband, so the redeemed will follow Him wherever he goeth.

Their love for Him is very, very deep. His love for them is very, very deep.

The love of the Father enters this experience also. Nothing in the universe is as close as the Father and the Son, yet we are told that, because of Calvary, the Father loves us as He loves His Son. That is another astonishment.

It is wonderful to be wanted and appreciated. This figure reveals how very much you are wanted and appreciated by the Godhead.

THE PARABLE OF THE TEN VIRGINS

1 - The parable of the ten virgins, also has application to this experience of the marriage.

“I am often referred to the parable of the ten virgins, five of whom were wise, and five foolish. This parable has been and will be fulfilled to the very letter, for it has a special application to this time, and, like the third angel’s message, has been fulfilled and will continue to be present truth till the close of time.

“In the parable, the ten virgins had lamps, but only five of them had the saving oil with which to keep their lamps burning. This represents the condition of the church.” -Review, August 19,1890.

“I saw that while Jesus was in the most holy place He would be married to the New Jerusalem; and after His work should be accomplished in the holiest, He would descend to the earth in kingly power, and take to Himself the precious ones who had patiently waited His return.” Early Writings, 251:1.

“While Jesus had been ministering in the sanctuary, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. Christ had received His kingdom, having made the atonement for His people, and blotted out their sin. The subjects of the kingdom were made up. The marriage of the Lamb was consummated.” -Early Writings, 280:1.

“The parable of the ten virgins of Matthew 25 also Illustrates the experience of the Adventist people.. Chapter 25 opens with the words, ‘Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins.’ Here is brought to view the church living in the last days, the same that is pointed out in the close of Chapter 24. In this parable their experience is Illustrated by the incidents of an Eastern marriage.” -Great Controversy, 393:2.

“We all need to study as never before the parable of the ten virgins.” -4 Bible Commentary, 1179.

2 - The call to prepare for the marriage began In 1844.

“In the summer of 1844, midway between the time when it had been first thought that the 2300 days would end, and the autumn of the same year, to which it was afterward found that they extended, the message was proclaimed in the very words of scripture. ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh!’” -Great Controversy, 398:3.

“My mind was carried forward to the future, when the signal will be given, ‘Behold the Bridegroom cometh; go ye to meet Him.’ “Review, February 11, 1896.

3 - The virgins, lamps, and oil.

“They are called virgins because they profess a pure faith.”- Christ’s Object Lessons, 406:3.

“They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them; but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.” -Matthew 25:3-4.

“All had lamps, that is, an outward semblance of religion; but only five of them had the inward piety. Five of them were wanting in the oil of grace.”-Sons and Daughters of God, 118:1.

“By the lamps is represented the word of God.” -Christ’s Object Lessons, 406:3.

“All had lamps, and vessels for oil. . All have a knowledge of the Scriptures. All have heard the message of Christ’s near approach, and confidently expect His appearing.” -Christ’s Object Lessons, 408:2.

“But if we do not practice the truth, we have not received the holy oil.” -4 Bible Commentary, 1179. “The oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 407:O.

“All need to have the oil of grace in their vessels with their lamps.”-Counsels on Health, 422:1.

4 - Some were wise and some were foolish.

“The latter class (wise virgins) had received the grace of God, the regenerating, enlightening power of the Holy Spirit, which renders His word a lamp to the feet and a light to the path.“ - Great Controversy, 994:O.

“That oil is the righteousness of Christ. It represents character, and character is not transferable. No man can secure it for another. Each must obtain for himself a character purified from every stain of sin.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 294:O.

“But some will have delayed to obtain the oil for replenishing their lamps, and too late they will find that character, which Is represented by the oil, is not transferable.” -Review, February 11, 1896.

“The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, they have advocated the truth, they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit’s working. They have not fallen upon the Rock, Christ Jesus, and permitted their old nature to be broken up. This class are represented also by the stony-ground hearers. They receive the word with readiness, but they fail of assimilating its principles. Its influence is not abiding. . They do not know God.

They have not studied His character; they have not held communion with Him; therefore they do not know how to trust, how to look and live. Their service to God degenerates Into a form. . This is the class that in time of peril are found crying, Peace and safety. They lull their hearts into security, and dream not of danger.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 411:1-2.

“If they cherish hereditary and cultivated traits of character that misrepresent Christ, while professedly His disciples, they are represented by the man coming to the gospel feast without having on the wedding garment, and by the foolish virgins which had no oil in their vessels with their lamps.”-4 Bible Commentary, 1179.

“In the parable of the virgins, five are represented as wise and five as foolish. The name, ‘foolish virgins’ represents the character of those who have not the genuine heart-work wrought by the spirit of God ..

“Those who have despised the divine grace that is at their command, that would have qualified them to be the inhabitants of heaven, will be the foolish virgins. They had all the light, all the knowledge; but they failed to obtain the oil and grace; they did not receive the truth in its sanctifying power.”-Review, August 19, 1890.

“There are persons who have received the precious light of the righteousness of Christ, but they do not act upon it; they are foolish virgins. They prefer the sophistry of the enemy rather than the plain ‘Thus said the Lord.’ When the blessing of God rested upon them in order that they might become channels of light, they did not go forward from light to a greater light; they permitted doubt and unbelief to come in, so that the truth which they had seen, became an uncertainty to them. Satan uses those who claim to believe the truth, but whose light has become darkness. They are foolish virgins indeed, choosing darkness rather than light, and dishonoring God. The character we cultivate, the attitude we assume today is fixing our future destiny.” -Review, August 19, 1890.

5 - Then comes the marriage.

“The marriage represents the reception by Christ of His kingdom.” -Great Controversy, 426:1-2.

“They (Christ’s followers) were not to be present in person at the marriage; for it takes place in heaven, while they are upon the earth. The followers of Christ are to wait for their Lord, when He will return from the Wedding but they are to understand His work, and to follow Him by faith as He goes in before God. It is in this sense that they are said to go in to the marriage. . And all who through the testimony of the Scriptures accept the same truths, following Christ by faith as He enters in before God to perform the last work of mediation, and at its close to receive His kingdom, -all these are represented as going in to the marriage.” -Great Controversy, 427:12; 428:O.

“While Jesus had been ministering in the sanctuary, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. Christ had received His kingdom, having made the atonement for His people, and blotted out their sins. The subjects of the kingdom were made up. The marriage of the Lamb was consummated.” -Early Writings, 280:1

“When the work of investigation shall be ended, when the cases of those who in all ages have professed to be followers of Christ have been examined and decided, then, and not till then, probation will close, and the doors of mercy will be shut. This in one short sentence, ‘They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage, and the door was shut,’ we are carried down through the Savior’s final ministration, to the time when the great work for man’s salvation shall be completed.” -Great Controversy, 428:2.

THE CALL TO THE MARRIAGE

1 - Just now we are in the waiting time - but too many are sleeping.

“The reason why the Bridegroom delays is because He is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. O the precious long-suffering of our merciful Savior!” -Sons and Daughters of God, 118:2.

“ ‘While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.’ By the tarrying of the bridegroom is represented the passing of the time when the Lord was expected, the disappointment, and the seeming delay. In this time of uncertainty, the interest of the, superficial and half-hearted soon began to waver, and their efforts to relax; but those whose faith was based on a personal knowledge of the Bible, had a rock beneath their feet, which the waves of disappointment could not wash away. ‘They all slumbered and slept;’ one class in unconcern and abandonment of their faith, the other class patiently waiting till clearer light should be given. Yet In the night of trial the latter seemed to lose, to some extent, their zeal and devotion. The half-hearted and superficial could no longer lean upon the faith of their brethren. Each must stand or fall for himself.” -Great Controversy, 894:1-895:O.

“All who wait for the heavenly Bridegroom are represented In the parable as slumbering because their Lord delayed His coming; but the wise roused themselves at the message of His approach, and responded to the message, and their spiritual discernment was not all gone, and they sprang Into line.” -5 Bible Commentary, 1099.

“We are in the waiting time; let your loins be girded about, and your lights shining, that may wait for the Lord when he returns from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks you may open unto him immediately.” -4 Testimonies, 128:8-124:O.

2 - The final call is given.

“Near the close of the second angel’s message, I saw a great light from heaven shining upon the people of God. The rays of this light seemed bright as the sun. And I heard the voices of angels crying, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!’ This was the midnight cry, which was to give power to the second angel’s message. Angels were sent from heaven to arouse the discouraged saints, and prepare them for the great work before them. The most talented men were not the first to receive this message. Angels were sent to the humble, devoted ones, and constrained them to raise the cry, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!’ Those entrusted with the cry made hast, and in the power of the Holy Spirit sounded the message, and aroused their discouraged brethren. This work did not stand in the wisdom and learning of men, but in the power of God, and His saints who heard the cry could not resist it. The most spiritual received this message first, and those who had formerly led in the work were the last to receive and help swell the cry, ‘Behold, The Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!’ The Message was heart-searching, leading the believers to seek a living experience for themselves. They knew that they could not lean upon one another.” -Early Writings, 288:8.

“I saw a number of angels conversing with the one who had cried, ‘Babylon is fallen,’ and these united with him in the cry, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!’ The musical voices of these angels seemed to reach everywhere. An exceedingly bright and glorious light shone around those who had cherished the light which had been imparted to them.

Their faces shone with excellent glory, and they united with the angels in the cry, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! As they harmoniously raised the cry among the different companies, those who rejected the light pushed them and with angry looks scorned and derided them. But angels of God wafted their wings over the persecuted ones, while Satan and his angels were seeking to press their darkness around them, to lead them to reject the light from heaven.” -Early Writings, 241:2-242:O.

“My mind was carried forward to the future, when the signal will be given, ‘Behold the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him,’ “Review, February 11, 1896.

3 - But for some, it will be too late.

“It is in a crisis that character is revealed. When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,’ and the sleeping virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for the event. Both parties were taken unawares, but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation. So now, a sudden and unlooked-for calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether there is any real faith in the promises of God.

It will show whether the soul is sustained by grace. The great final test comes at the close of human proba-tion, when it will be too late for the soul’s need to be supplied,”- Christ’s Object Lessons, 412:1.

“We can not be ready to meet the Lord by waking when the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom!’ and then gathering up our empty lamps to have them replenished.”-Christ’s Object Lessons, 419:2-414:O.

“But some will have delayed to obtain the oil for replenishing their lamps, and too late they will find that character, which is represented by the oil, is not transferable.”-Review, February 11, 1896.

“When the testing time shall come, those who have made God’s word their rule of life will be revealed. . So the false-hearted professor may not now be distinguished from the real Christian, but the time is just upon us when the difference will be apparent.” -Great Controversy, 602:1.

“There are many who, unless they humble their hearts before the Lord, will be surprised and disappointed when the cry is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh!’ They have the theory of the truth, but they have no oil in their vessels with their lamps. Our faith at this time must not stop with an assent to, or belief in, the theory of the third angel’s message. We must have the oil of grace of Christ that will feed the lamp, and cause the light of life to shine forth, showing the way to those who are in darkness.”-9 Testimonies, 155:1.

“Those who, while having all the light of truth flashing upon their souls, should have works corresponding to their avowed faith, but are allured by sin, setting up idols in their hearts, corrupting their souls before God, and polluting those who unite with them in sin, will have their names blotted out of the book of life, and be left in midnight darkness, having no oil in their vessels with their lamps.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 445:1.

“The woes that will be pronounced upon those that have had the light from heaven, and yet did not heed it they will feel, but will have no power to act. This is represented in the parable of the wise and foolish virgins. They cannot obtain a character from the wise virgins, and they have no oil of grace to discern the clear light or to accept it. They cannot light their lamps and Join the procession that goes in to the marriage supper of the Iamb.” -Special Testimonies to Ministers, No. 7, pp. 54-55.

“One who sees beneath the surface, who reads the hearts of all men, says of those who have had great light: ‘They are not afflicted and astonished because of their moral and spiritual condition.’ ‘Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations, I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called none did answer; when I spake, they did not hear; but they did evil before Mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not.’ ‘God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie, ‘because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,’ ‘but had pleasure in unrighteousness.’ Isaiah 66:3, 4; 2 Thessalonians 2:11,10,12,”-8 Testimonies, 249:2.

4 - While some are left out, others will enter.

“To souls that are earnestly seeking for light, and that accept with gladness every ray of divine illumination from His holy word, -to such alone light will be given. It is through these souls that God will reveal that light and power which will lighten the whole earth with His glory.”- 5 Testimonies, 729:2.

“The message of Christ’s righteousness is to sound from one end of the world to the other. This is the glory of God which closes the work of title ‘third angel.’”-Letter, December 21, 1892, quoted in Review, Extra, January 1899,

“By Implanting In their hearts the principles of His word, the Holy Spirit develops in men the attributes of God. The light of His glory -His character -is to shine forth in His followers.

Thus they are to glorify God, to lighten the path to the Bridegroom’s home, to the city of God, to the marriage supper of the Lamb.”-Christ’s Object Lessons, 414:2.

5 - Many will be refused admittance to the marriage..

“In the future, the earth is to be lightened with the glory of God, A holy influence is to go forth to the world from those who are sanctified through the truth. The earth is to be encircled with an atmosphere of grace. The Holy Spirit is to work on human hearts, taking the things of God and showing them to men.” -9 Testimonies, 40:2.

“We may be sure that when the Holy Spirit is poured out those who did not receive and appreciate the early rain will not see or understand the value of the latter rain.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 399:1.

“There is to be in the churches a wonderful manifestation of the power of God, but it will not move upon those who have not humbled themselves before the Lord, and opened the door of their heart by confession and repentance. In the manifestation of that power which lightens the earth with the glory of God, they will see only something which in their blindness they think dangerous, something which will arouse their fears, and they will brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does not work according to their expectations and ideal, they will oppose the work, ‘Why,’ they say, ‘should we not know the Spirit of God, when we have been in the work so many years?’ -Because they did not respond to the warnings, the entireties, or the messages of God, but persistently said, ‘I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.’ “-Review, November 7, 1918.

“Some have turned from the message of the righteousness of Christ to criticize the men. . The third angel’s message will not be comprehended, the light which will lighten the earth with Its glory will be called a false light, by those who refuse to walk in its advancing glory. The work that might have been done, will be left undone by the rejecters of truth, because of their unbelief. We entreat of you who oppose the light of truth, to stand out of the way of God’s people. Let heaven-sent light shine forth upon them in clear steady rays.” - Review, May 27, 1890.

“But those who have given God only half-hearted service, allowing their lives to be conformed to the ways and practices of the world, will hear the sad words, ‘Depart from me; I know you not.’ “-9 Testimonies, 252:1.

“Christ tells us how in the last great day ministers, elders, evangelists, physicians, teachers, will confront Him with their claims. They will plead how they have led the singers in their songs of praise, how they have waved the palm branches, how they have spoken of Him before thousands. ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name,’ they say, ‘and in Thy name done many wonderful works.’

“But Christ says, ‘Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity. ‘O that you had known, even in the day of your visitations, when like sweetest music, mercy’s voice fell upon your ears, the things that belonged unto your peace. But you were not ready. If you had been faithful to the warnings of the word; if you had dismissed Satan, instead of linking your arm in his; if you had preserved untarnished the principles of right; If you had obeyed my commandments, broken with ungodly

advisers, scorned their Impious bribes, which tempted you to worldly honor; if you had lifted the cross, and followed Jesus in self-denial, I could have welcomed you into My presence. But you have not cared for My society, and now you have no power to go from the snare.

“I offered you My saving grace, but you refused it and chose the side of the enemy, even as the priests and rulers and mocked at my humiliation. So will I refuse to acknowledge you. I weep for your future, but you have not cared to weep for yourselves. I was pledged to bear you and care for you, even a father beareth and loveth his own son that serveth him. But you would not harmonize with Me.

“The precious invitation was often given, ‘Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.’ But you would have none of My counsel.

You have despised all My entreaties and scorned My invitations. You have caused many to follow your sinful ways, and now your punishment has come. You will receive as your works have been. You must lose everlasting life. You have chosen your own ways, and with such ways, such sentiments, such characters, you could not enter the gates of the holy city.’

“What a scene is this! I pass over the ground again and again, bowed down in an agony that no tongue can express, as I see the end of many, many who have refused to receive their Savior.” -A Solemn Warning, October 1,1909, from Sanitarium, California.

6 - The conclusion of the matter: Get ready now, before It is too late.

“ ‘Be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.’ Go to your rest at night with every sin confessed. Thus when in 1844 we expected to meet our Lord. And now this great event is nearer than when we first believed. Be always ready, In the evening, In the morning, and at noon, that when the cry Is heard, ‘Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!’ you may, even though awakened out of sleep, go forth to meet Him with your lamps trimmed and burning.”-9 Testimonies, 48:3.

“Purify your souls by obeying the truth. Faith without works Is dead. Put not off the day of preparation. Slumber not in a state of unpreparedness, having no oil in your vessels with your lamps. Let none leave their safety for eternity to hang upon a peradventure. Let not the question remain in perilous uncertainty. Ask yourselves earnestly, Am I among the saved, or the unsaved? Shall I stand, or shall I not stand? He only that hath clean hands and a pure heart shall stand in that day.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 448:2.

The Latter Rain

One of the best descriptions of the relationship of the early to the latter rain is to be found in Testimonies to Ministers, 506-507. But the entire chapter is equally important (pp. 506512). The latter rain is also spoken of as the “refreshing,“ for it does just that. It energizes the people of God to do a special work before the general close of probation.

The decisions of men, knowingly made at the time of the terrible threat of the Sunday law crisis, will determine whether they receive the mark or the seal. The sealing, when it occurs, will seal in the blotting out of sin experience. The latter rain is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and it accompanies the sealing. As the Holy Spirit is withdrawn from those receiving the mark, it is poured upon the sealed ones. The latter rain is a powerful witness to the fact that God’s faithful ones have been sealed.

But the latter rain is given for a special purpose. This outpouring strengthens the faithful to give the loud cry warning to the world, and to all who hear them; it brings intense conviction that they are speaking the truth. In addition, signs, wonders, and healings will occur, and, as in the days of the early rain experience of Acts 2, men will hear the message each in their own language. (But we are told we must not rely on miracles in the giving of our message, now or later. It is primarily truth for truth’s sake, empowered by the Holy Spirit which must convict the hearers.)

It is the Spirit-filled power of the loud cry message, which enables it to be given so quickly and fully to every person living on earth.

Many approach this topic with one or another of several errors in mind:

WHEN THE LATTER RAIN OCCURS

1 - The sealing occurs prior to the close of probation.

“The living righteous will receive the seal of God prior to the close of probation.”- 1 Selected Messages, 66:2.

2 - The latter rain falls before the sealing is finished, and before the work (loud cry) is closed up.

“Before the work is closed up and the sealing of God’s people is finished, we shall receive the outpouring of the Spirit of God.”- 1 Selected Messages, 111:9.

3 - The latter rain falls before the final judgments (the “final judgments” would be the plagues which begin just after the general close of probation).

“Before the final visitation of God’s judgments upon the earth there will be among the people of the Lord such a revival of primitive godliness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children.” -Great Controversy, 464:1.

4 - The latter rain falls at the time of the final harvest (which would be the loud cry).

“Near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain.” - Acts of the Apostles, 55:1.

“The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the ‘former rain’ was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the ‘latter rain’ will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest.” -Great Controversy, 611:2.

Therefore, in summary, the latter rain will occur at the time of the sealing and the loud cry, and before the close of probation and the plagues which follow it.

THE TIMING OF THE LATTER RAIN

It is not possible to set a date for the occurrence of this event, or to determine time spans leading to or away from it. No date can be predicted for the latter rain (1SM 188), and we should not try to time-set the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Evangelism 221). No light has been given us regarding a definite time for this event (7BC 984). See our tract study; It’s No Time for Time Excitement [PG-21J, for quotations on this.

Although we cannot time set the latter rain, we can determine the sequence of when it will occur -in relation to other events. In this present study we will examine a surprisingly large number of such sequences; about two dozen of them.

LATTER RAIN FALLS ON A SEALED PEOPLE

1 - Sequence: (1) Needful preparation; (2) victory; (3) seal, and latter rain (refreshing); (4) no high priestly ministration during (great) time of trouble (after general close of probation).

“I also saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected In the time of trouble must reflect the Image of Jesus fully.

“I saw that many were neglecting the preparations so needful and were looking to the time of ‘refreshing’ and the ‘latter rain’ to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live In His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who refuse to be hewed by the prophets and fail to purify their souls in obeying the whole truth, and who are willing to believe that their condition is far better than it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building. But there will be no time then to do it and no Mediator to plead their cause before the Father. Before this time the awfully solemn declaration has gone forth, ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still’ I saw that none could share the ‘refreshing’ unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should, therefore, be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord and be earnestly seeking that preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord.”- Early Writings, 71:1-2.

2 - Sequence: (1) It is now that we are to remedy our defects and cleanse the soul temple. (2) It is later that the seal and latter rain occur.

“Everyone must now search the Bible for himself upon his knees before God, with the humble, teachable heart of a child if he would know what the Lord requires of him. However high any minister may have stood in the favor of God, if he neglects to follow out the light given him of God, if he refuses to be taught as a little child, he will go into darkness and satanic delusions and will lead others in the same path.

“Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost.” -5 Testimonies, 214:1-2.

THOSE WHO RECEIVE SEAL

See Early Writings, 71:1-2 and 5 Testimonies, 214:1-2, quoted just above.

1 - Sequence: (1) Humility and soul purification; (2) national Sunday law decree; (3) stamp (seal) impressed.

“What are you doing, brethren, in the great work of preparation? Those who are uniting with the world are receiving the worldly mold and preparing for the mark of the beast. Those who are distrustful of self, who are humbling themselves before God and purifying their souls by obeying the truth -these are receiving the heavenly mold and preparing for the seal of God in their foreheads. When the decree goes forth and the stamp is impressed, their character will remain pure and spotless for eternity.

“Now is the time to prepare. The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God-candidates for heaven. Go forward, my brethren and sisters. I can only write briefly upon these points at this time, merely calling your attention to the necessity of preparation. Search the Scriptures for yourselves, that you may understand the fearful solemnity of the present hour.” -5 Testimonies, 218:1-2.

PRAYING ABOUT AND REBUKING SIN

In the last days, just before the national Sunday law crisis, the faithful will not only engage in earnest missionary work for those who have never heard the message, but they will also be sighing and crying for the sins done in the church.

1 - Sequence: (1) Sigh and cry because of wickedness; (2) receive seal.

“The day of God’s vengeance is just upon us. The seal of God will be placed upon the foreheads of those only who sigh and cry for the abominations done in the land. Those who link in sympathy with the world are eating and drinking with the drunken and will surely be destroyed with the workers of iniquity. ‘The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.’ “-5 Testimonies, 212:3.

“Our own course of action will determine whether we shall receive the seal of the living God or be cut down by the destroying weapons.” -5 Testimonies, 212:3-4.

Note: Have men taught you that it is wrong to reprove sin in the church? Heed them not. We are told that those only who sigh and cry over the sins done in Israel will later receive the seal.

2 - Sequence: (1) Danger and depression of church the greatest; (2) little company are standing in the light and sighing, crying because of wickedness in world, -but especially because of the sins in the church; (3) In the time of vengeance, God will protect them.

“The leaven of godliness has not entirely lost its power. At the time when the danger and depression of the church are greatest, the little company who are standing in the light will be sighing and crying for the abominations that are done in the land. But more especially will their prayers arise in behalf of the church because its members are doing after the manner of the world.

“The earnest prayers of this faithful few will not be in vain. When the Lord comes forth as an avenger, He will also come as a protector of all those who have preserved the faith in its purity and kept themselves unspotted from the world.” -5 Testimonies, 209:9-210:1.

3 - Sequence: (1) Sighing and crying, (2) ignored by the majority.

“In the time when His wrath shall go forth in judgments, these humble, devoted followers of Christ will be distinguished from the rest of the world by their soul anguish, which is expressed in lamentation and weeping, reproofs and warnings. While others try to throw a cloak over the existing evil, and excuse the great wickedness everywhere prevalent, those who have a zeal for God’s honor and a love for souls will not hold their peace to obtain favor of any. Their righteous souls are vexed day by day with the unholy works and conversation of the unrighteous. They are powerless to stop the rushing torrent of Iniquity, and hence they are filled with grief and alarm. They mourn before God to see religion despised in the very homes of those who have had great light. They lament and afflict their souls because pride, avarice, selfishness, and deception of almost every kind are in the church. The Spirit of God, which prompts to reproof, is trampled underfoot, while the servants of Satan triumph. God is dishonored, the truth made of none effect.”- 5 Testimonies, 210:3-211:O.

4 - Sequence: (1) Sigh, cry, reprove, counsel, entreat; (2) receive God’s mark.

“The command is: ‘Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. ‘ These sighing, crying ones had been holding forth the words of life; they had reproved, counseled, and entreated. Some who had been dishonoring God repented and humbled their hearts before Him. But the glory of the Lord had departed from Israel; although many still continued the forms of religion, His power and presence were lacking.” -5 Testimonies, 210:2.

5 - Sequence: (1) Grieving, mourning; (2) sealing.

“The class who do not feel grieved over their own spiritual declension, nor mourn over the sins of others, will be left without the seal of God.”-5 Testimonies, 211:1.

6 - The sins in the church are more terrible than any realize.

“The abominations for which the faithful ones were sighing and crying were all that could be discerned by finite eyes, but by far the worst sins, those which provoked the jealousy of the pure and holy God, were unrevealed. The great Searcher of hearts knoweth every sin committed in secret by the workers of iniquity. These persons come to feel secure in their deceptions and, because of His long-suffering, say that the Lord seeth not, and then act as though He had forsaken the earth. But He will detect their hypocrisy and will open before others those sins which they were so careful to hide.” -5 Testimonies, 211:3212:O.

7 - Sequence: (1) Clear view of sinfulness of sin; (2) sigh and cry; (3) (seal).

“[Speaking of those later sealed:) Their love for purity and the honor and glory of God is such, and they have so clear a view of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, that they are represented as being in an agony, even sighing and crying.”-Review, June 8, 1886.

8 - Sequence: (1) Sigh and cry over sins in church; (2) receive mark of truth.

“Those who receive the pure mark of truth are those ‘that sigh and cry for the abominations that are done in the church.” -Review, June 8, 1886.

9 - Sequence: (1) Not excuse sin, not murmur against those who are reproving it, and not sympathizing with wrongdoers; (2) (seal).

“Who are standing in the counsel of God at this time? Is it those who virtually excuse wrongs among the professed people of God and who murmur in their hearts, if not openly against those who would reprove sin? Is it those who take their stand against them and sympathize with those who commit wrong? No, indeed! Unless they repent, and leave the work of Satan in oppressing those who have the burden of the work and in holding up the hands of sinners in Zion, they will never receive the mark of God’s approval.” - 3 Testimonies, 267:1.

10 - Sequence: (1) View sin as sin; (2) deal faithfully and plainly with sin; (3) in the sealing time will receive the pure mark of truth.

“The true people of God, who have the spirit of the work of the Lord and the salvation of souls at heart, will ever view sin in its real, sinful character. They will always be on the side of faithful and plain dealing with sins which easily beset the people of God. Especially In the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people. This is forcibly set forth by the prophet’s illustration of the last work under the figure of the men each having a slaughter weapon in his hand. One man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer’s inkhorn by his side. ‘And the Lord said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof.’

“Who are standing in the counsel of God at this time? Is it those who virtually excuse wrongs among the professed people of God and who murmur in their hearts, if not openly, against those who would reprove sin? Is it those who take their stand against them and sympathize with those who commit wrong? No, indeed! Unless they repent, and leave the work of Satan in oppressing those who have the burden of the work and in holding up the hands of sinners in Zion, they will never receive the mark of God’s sealing ap-proval. They will fall in the general destruction of the wicked, represented by the work of the five men bearing slaughter weapons. Mark this point with care: Those who receive the pure mark of truth, wrought In them by the power of the Holy Ghost, represented by a mark by the man in linen, are those ‘that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the church. Their love for purity and the honor and glory of God is such, and they have so clear a view of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, that they are represented as being in agony, even sighing and crying. Read the ninth chapter of Ezekiel.

“But the general slaughter of all those who do not thus see the wide contrast between sin and righteousness, and do not feel as those do who stand in the counsel of God and receive the mark, is described in the order to the five men with slaughter weapons: ‘Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity: slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at My sanctuary.’

“In the case of Achan’s sin God said to Joshua: ‘Neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.’ How does this instance compare with the course pursued by those who will not raise their voice against sin and wrong, but whose sympathies are ever found with those who trouble the camp of Israel with their sins? Said God to Joshua: ‘Thou canst not stand before your enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.’ He pronounced the punishment which would follow the transgression of His covenant.

“Joshua then began a diligent search to find out the guilty one.”-3 Testimonies, 266:2-268:1.

THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE

We have faithful men today who, in their preaching, books, and tracts, are giving the third angel’s message. But it will be the latter rain which will transform that proclamation into a loud cry which will fill the entire world. Thus, the outpouring of the latter rain which begins the loud cry, will result in sizeable numbers of genuine converts uniting with the people of God. This will come after a major portion of the professed Sabbath keepers have apostatized.

1 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain (refreshing); (2) loud cry.

“I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. . I asked what made this great change. An angel answered, ‘It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel” -Early Writings, 271:2.

2 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain; (2) loud cry.

“The glory of God rested upon the patient waiting saints, and they fearlessly gave the last solemn message.” -Early Writings, 277:2-278:O.

3 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain; (2) loud cry; (3) plagues.

“At that time the ‘latter rain,’ or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.” -Early Writings, 86:O.

4 - Sequence: (1) (Little) time of trouble [which begins with the setting up of the image and the national Sunday law decree]; (2) latter rain; (3) loud cry.

“I saw that God had children who do not see and keep the Sabbath. They have not rejected the light upon it. And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully.”- Early Writings, 33:2 (85:2).

THE POWER OF THE LOUD CRY

Throughout the time during which the latter rain experience continues, it will be the Holy Spirit which will render the proclamation of the third angel’s message so powerful.

1 - Sequence: (1) Grow up into Christ; (2) partake largely of His Spirit, His glory, and receive latter rain; (3) faces shine; (4) third angel’s message swells to loud cry, as great power and glory attends its delivery; (5) time of Jacob s trouble, their last conflict.

“As the members of the body of Christ approach the period of their last conflict, ‘the time of Jacob’s trouble,’ they will grow up into Christ, and will partake largely of His spirit. As the third message swells to a loud cry, and as great power and glory attend the closing work, the faithful people of God will partake of that glory. It is the latter rain which revives and strengthens them to pass through the time of trouble. Their faces will shine with the glory of that light which attends the third angel.” -1 Testimonies, 353:3.

2 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain (refreshing); (2) loud cry.

“It [the third angel’s message] is represented as being given with a loud voice, that is with the power of the Holy Spirit.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 980/1:3.

3 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain (refreshing); (2) loud cry.

“At that time the ‘latter rain’, or refreshing from the presence of the Lord will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel.” Early Writings, 86:O.

4 - Sequence: (1) Weeping and praying; (2) severe conflict and agonizing struggle; (3) mightily shaken, and careless and indifferent gone; (4) others fill places; (5) obtained the victory; (6) latter rain, refreshing; (7) faces shone with light, and expressions of deep gratitude to God; (8) evil angels around them, but no longer have power over them; (9) loud cry of third angel; (10) many responded.

“Said the angel, ‘List ye!’ [‘Listen!’] Soon I heard a voice like many musical instruments all sounding in perfect strains, sweet and harmonious. It surpassed any music I had ever heard, seeming to be full of mercy, compassion, and elevating, holy joy. It thrilled through my whole being. Said the angel, ‘Look ye!’ My attention was then turned to the company I had seen, who were mightily shaken. I was shown those whom I had before seen weeping and praying in agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers. Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they had endured, the agonizing struggle they had passed through. Yet their features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy.

“The numbers of this company had lessened. Some had been shaken out and left by the way. The careless and Indifferent, who did not join with those who prized victory and salvation enough to perseveringly plead and agonize for it, did not obtain it, and they were left behind in darkness, and their places were Immediately filled by others taking hold of the truth and coming into the ranks. Evil angels still pressed around them, but could have no power over them.

“I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. It had effect. Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some children by their parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer and more precious than life. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered, ‘It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel.’ “-Early Writings, 270:4-271:2.

5 - Latter rain and loud cry are inherently linked.

“The third angel, flying in the midst of heaven and heralding the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus, represents our work. The message loses none of its force in the angel’s onward flight, for John sees it increasing in strength and power until the whole earth is lightened with its glory. The course of God’s commandment keeping people is onward, ever onward. The message of truth that we bear must go to nations, tongues, and peoples. Soon it will go with a loud voice, and the earth will be lightened with its glory. Are we preparing for this great outpouring of the Spirit of God?

“Human agencies are to be employed in this work. Zeal and energy must be intensified; talents that are rusting from inaction must be pressed into service. The voice that would say, ‘Wait; do not allow yourself to have burdens imposed upon you,’ is the voice of the cowardly spies. We want Calebs now who will press to the front -chieftains in Israel who with courageous words will make a strong report in favor of immediate action. When the selfish, ease-loving, panic-stricken people, fearing tall giants and inaccessible walls, clamor for retreat, let the voice of the Calebs be heard, even though the cowardly ones stand with stones in their hands, ready to beat them down for their faithful testimony.” -5 Testimonies, 383:2-3.

6 - Sequence: (1) Unity in love (based on obedience by faith to God’s truth); (2) loud cry.

“Thus will be answered the prayer of Christ, uttered just before His humiliation and death: ‘That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.’ John 17:21. The love of Christ, the love of our brethren, will testify to the world that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Then will the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth will be lightened with the glory of God.”-6 Testimonies, 401:1.

7 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain; (2) Jacob’s trouble.

“God’s people were strengthened by the excellent glory which rested upon them in rich abundance and prepared them to endure the hour of temptation.”-Early Writings, 279:O.

8 - Sequence: (1) Latter rain; (2) loud cry to all the world; (3) final conflict (during loud cry, and Jacob’s trouble which follows it].

“Clad In the armor of Christ’s righteousness, the church is to enter upon her final conflict. ‘Fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners’ (Song of Solomon

6:10), she is to go forth into all the world, conquering and to conquer.” -Prophets and Kings, 725:1.

9 - The sealing/latter rain/loud cry experience.

“For Zion’s sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth.

“And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shall be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name.

“Thou shall also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.”-Isaiah 62:1-9.

“And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.” -Isaiah 95:8.

“There shall be no more Canaanite in the house of the Lord of hosts.”-Zechariah 14:21.

PREPARATION FOR THE LATTER RAIN

When the latter rain is ready to fall, it will fall -whether or not you and I are ready to receive it. Therefore, we need to give earnest attention to our manner of life and conduct NOW, so that we will be prepared to receive the latter rain when our kind Father pours it out upon His people.

Strictly speaking, this topic should be located prior to the Sunday law crisis. However, for purposes of simplicity, it is placed at the close of this Latter Rain study.

1 - The Infilling of the Holy Spirit is our great need.

“At no point in our experiences can we dispense with the assistance of that which enables us to make the first start. The blessings received under the former rain are needful to us to the end. As we seek God for the Holy Spirit, It will work in us meekness, humbleness of mind, a conscious dependence upon God for the perfecting latter rain.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 507:2, 509:O.

“The Holy Spirit seeks to abide in each soul. If it is welcomed as an honored guest, those who receive it will be made complete In Christ.

The good work begun will be finished; the holy thoughts, heavenly affections, and Christ like actions will take the place of impure thoughts, perverse sentiments, and rebellious acts.” -Counsels on Health, 561:1.

“We may have had a measure of the Spirit of God, but by prayer and faith we are continually to seek more of the Spirit. It will never do to cease our efforts. If we do not progress, if we do not place ourselves in an attitude to receive both the former and the latter rain, we shall lose our souls, and the responsibility will lie at our own door.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 508:O.

“The measure of the Holy Spirit we receive will be proportioned to the measure of our desire and the faith exercised for it, and the use we shall make of the light and knowledge that shall be given to us.” -Last Day Events, 188:5.

“A revival and a reformation must take place, under the ministration of the Holy Spirit. Revival and reformation are two different things. Revival signifies a renewal of spiritual life, a quickening of the powers of mind and heart, a resurrection from spiritual death. Reformation signifies a reorganization, a change In Ideas and theories, habits and practices.

Reformation will not bring forth the good fruit of righteousness unless it is connected with the revival of the Spirit. Revival and reformation are to do their appointed work, and in doing his work they must blend.” -Last Day Events, 189:3-190:O.

2. God is waiting for us to get ready to receive It.

“The long night of gloom is trying, but the morning Is deferred In mercy, because if the Master should come, so many would be found unready. God’s unwillingness to have His people perish, has been the reason of so long delay.”-2 Testimonies, 194:O.

“Had the purpose of God been carried out by His people In giving to the world the message of mercy, Christ would, ere this, have come to the earth, and the saints would have received their welcome into the city of God. It -6 Testimonies, 1,.50:O.

“I know that if God’s people had maintained a living connection with Him, If they had obeyed His word, they would today have been in the heavenly Canaan.”-General Conference Bulletin, March 90, 1909.

“I asked my accompanying angel the meaning of what I heard, and what the four angels were about to do. He said to me that it was God that restrained the powers, and that He gave his angels charge over things on the earth; that the four angels had power from God to hold the four winds, and that they were about to let them go; but while their hands were loosening, and the four winds were about to blow, the merciful eye of Jesus gazed on the remnant that were not sealed, and He raised his hands to the Father, and pleaded with Him that He had spilled His blood for them. Then another angel was commissioned to fly swiftly to the four angels, and bid them hold, until the servants of God were sealed with the seal of the living God in their foreheads.” -Early Writings, 98:2.

“All we have to do is to keep the vessel clean and right side up and prepared for the reception of the heavenly rain, and keep praying, ‘Let the latter rain come into my vessel. Let the light of the glorious angel which unites with the third angel shine upon me; give me a part in the work; let me sound the proclamation; let me be a colaborer with Jesus Christ.’ Thus seeking God, let me tell you, He is fitting you up all the time, giving you His grace.” -Upward Look, 289:2.

3 - The latter rain will strengthen God’s people for the important events so soon to occur.

“The latter rain, ripening earth’s harvest, represents the spiritual grace that prepares the church for the coming of the Son of man.” Testimonies to Ministers, 506:2.

“While the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel. At that time the ‘later rain’, or refreshing from the presence of the Lord will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.” -Early Writings, 85:9-86:O.

“Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God.” -Early Writings, 71:2.

“Servants of God with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers. Satan also works with lying wonders, even bringing fire down from heaven in the sight of men. Thus the inhabitants of the earth will be brought to take their stand.”-Great Controversy, 612:1.

“The glory of God rested upon the patient, waiting saints, and they fearlessly gave the last solemn warning, proclaiming the fall of Babylon, and calling upon God’s people to come out of her that they might escape her fearful doom.

“The light that was shed upon the waiting ones penetrated everywhere. Mighty miracles were wrought, the sick were healed, and signs and wonders followed the believers. God was in the work, and every saint, fearless of consequences, followed the convictions of his own conscience, and united with those who were keeping all the commandments of God; and with power they sounded abroad the third message. I saw that this message will close with power and strength far exceeding the midnight cry.” -Early Writings, 277:2-278:1.

“The outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the beginning of the early, or former rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church.

“But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest in the time of the latter rain.” -Acts of the Apostles, 54:2-55:1.

4 - It is our work to earnestly plead for the Holy Spirit, and to live our prayers.

“Those who make no decided effort, but simply wait for the Holy Spirit to compel them to action, will perish in darkness. You are not to sit still and do nothing in the work of God.” Christian Service, 228:3.

“We are not to trust to the ordinary working of providence. We must pray that God will unseal the fountains of the water of life. And we must ourselves receive of the living water. Let us, with contrite hearts, pray most earnestly that now, in the time of the latter rain, showers of grace may fall upon us.” - Testimonies to Ministers, 509:O.

“What can I say to my brethren in the name of the Lord? What proportion of our efforts has been made in accordance with the light the Lord has been pleased to give? We cannot depend upon form or external machinery. What we need is the quickening influence of the Holy Spirit of God. . Pray without ceasing, and watch by working in accordance with your prayers. As you pray, believe, trust in God. It is the time of the latter rain, when the Lord will give largely of His Spirit.” Testimonies to Ministers, 512:1.

“ ‘Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain.’ Do not rest satisfied that in the ordinary course of the season, rain will fall. Ask for It. . We must seek His favors with the whole heart, if the showers of grace are to come to us. We should improve every opportunity of placing ourselves in the channel of blessing.. The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings, the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there is personal labour for souls, are God’s appointed opportunities for giving the early and the latter rain.

“The circumstances may seem favorable for a rich outpouring of the showers of grace. But God Himself must command the rain to fall. Therefore, we should not be remiss in supplication.” Testimonies to Ministers, 508:1, 509:O.

5 - By the enabling grace of Christ, we must prepare our hearts and lives to receive it.

“The refreshing or the power of God comes only on those who have prepared themselves for it by doing the work which God bids them, namely, cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”- 1 Testimonies, 619:1.

“God will prove his people. . He brings them up to different points calculated to manifest what is in the heart. . Those who come up to every point, and stand the test, and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation.”-1 Testimonies, 186:2, 187:1.

“Christ always separates the contrite soul from sin. He came to destroy the works of the devil, and He has made provision that the Holy Spirit shall be imparted to every repentant soul, to keep him from sinning.” - Desire of Ages, 811:2.

“We have great victories to gain, and a Heaven to lose if we do not gain them. The carnal heart must be crucified. . Pray that the mighty energies of the Holy Spirit, with all their quickening, recuperative, and transforming power, may fall like an electric shock on the palsy-stricken soul, causing every nerve to thrill with new life, restoring the whole man from his dead, earthly, sensual state to spiritual soundness.” 5 Testimonies, 267:2.

“I saw some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, pleading with God. Their countenance were pale, and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmness and great earnestness was expressed in their countenances; large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them..

“Some, I saw, did not participate in this work of agonizing and pleading. They seemed indifferent and careless. They were not resisting the darkness around them, and it shut them in like a thick cloud. The angels of God left these, and went to the aid of the earnest, praying ones..

“I was shown those whom I had before seen weeping and praying in agony of spirit. . they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They moved in exact order, like a company of soldiers. Their countenances expressed the severe conflict which they had endured, the agonizing struggle they had passed through. Yet their features, marked with severe internal anguish, now shone with the light and glory of heaven. They had obtained the victory, and it called forth from them the deepest gratitude, and holy, sa-cred joy..

“I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. It had effect. . The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now eagerly laid hold upon it . . I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered: ‘It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the third angel’ “-Early Writings, 269:1, 270:1, 271:O, 2.

“Often in the night season I am bidden to urge our brethren in responsible positions to make earnest effort to follow on to know the Lord more perfectly. . When they consecrate heart and soul to the service of God, they will find that an experience deeper than any they have yet obtained is essential if they would triumph over all sin.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 514:1.

“Those who at Pentecost were endued with power from on high, were not thereby freed from further temptation and trial. . They were compelled to strive with all their God-given powers to reach the measure of the stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. Daily they prayed for fresh supplies of grace, that they might reach higher and still higher toward perfection.” - Acts of the Apostles, 49:9.

“For the dally baptism of the Spirit every worker should offer his petition to God. . Morning by morning, as the heralds of the gospel kneel before the Lord and renew their vows of consecration to Him, He will grant them the presence of His Spirit, with its reviving, sanctifying power.”-The Acts of the Apostles, 50:2, 56:2.

“And as they continue to let their light shine, as did those who were baptized with the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, they receive more and still more of the Spirit’s power. Thus the earth will be lightened with the glory of God.”-Acts of the Apostles, 54:O.

“Just prior to His leaving His disciples for the heavenly courts, Jesus encouraged them with the promise of the Holy Spirit. This promise belongs as much to us as it did to them, and yet how rarely it is presented before the people, and its reception spoken of in the church. In consequence of this silence upon this most important theme, what promise do we know less about by its practical fulfillment than this rich promise of the gift of the Holy Spirit, whereby efficiency is to be given to all our spiritual labor? . . This subject has been set aside, as if some time in the future would be given to its consideration. Other blessings and privileges have been presented before the people until a desire has been awakened in the church for the attainment of the blessing promised of God; but the impression concerning the Holy Spirit has been that this gift is not for the church now, but that at some time in the future it would be necessary for the church to receive it.” Testimonies to Ministers, 174:1.

“The dispensation in which we are now living is to be, to those that ask, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit. Ask for His blessing. It is time we were more intense in our devotion. To us is committed the arduous, but happy, glorious work of revealing Christ to those who are in darkness. We are called to proclaim the special truths for this time. For all this the outpouring of the Spirit is essential. We should pray for it. The Lord expects us to ask Him. We have not been wholehearted in this work.”-Testimonies to Ministers 511:3512:O.

“We should pray as earnestly for the descent of the Holy Spirit as the disciples prayed on the day of Pentecost. If they needed it at that time, we need it more today. . Without the Spirit and power of God, it will be in vain that we labor to present the truth..

“I fear for you, my brethren, I counsel you to tarry at Jerusalem, as did the early disciples, until, like them, you receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.”-5 Testimonies, 158:1-159:1.

“God’s faithful messengers are to seek to carry forward the Lord’s work in His appointed way. . They are to wrestle with God in earnest prayer for a baptism of the Holy Spirit that they may meet the needs of a world perishing in sin.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 459:2.

“The Lord has provided for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon His workers, and everyone who sincerely seeks God will find Him. We are to come boldly to the throne of grace, and seek the footstool of mercy. We are to believe that the Lord hears and answers our prayers.” Testimonies to Ministers, 218:2.

“What we need is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Without this, we are no more fitted to go forth to the world than were the disciples after the crucifixion of their Lord. Jesus knew their destitution, and told them to tarry in Jerusalem until they should be endowed with power from on high.”- Review, February 18, 1890.

“Oh, how we need the divine presence! For the baptism of the Holy Spirit every worker should be breathing out his prayer to God. Companies should be gathered together to call upon God for special help, for heavenly wisdom, that the people of God may know how to plan and devise and execute the work.

“Especially, should men pray that the Lord will choose His agents, and baptize His missionaries with the Holy Spirit. For ten days the disciples prayed before the Pentecostal blessing came. It required all that time to bring them to an understanding of what it meant to offer effectual prayer. . When the blessing did come, it filled all the place where they were assembled.” Testimonies to Ministers, 170:O-1.

“We should improve every opportunity of placing ourselves in the channel of blessing. Christ has said, ‘Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there I am in the midst.’

The convocations of the church, as in camp meetings, the assemblies of the home church, and all occasions where there Is personal labor for souls, are God’s appointed opportunities for giving the early and the latter rain.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 508:1.

“By prayer and confession of sin we must clear the King’s highway. As we do this, the power of the Spirit will come to us. We need the Pentecostal energy. This will come; for the Lord has promised to send His Spirit as the all-conquering power.”-8 Testimonies 297:6-298:O.

“There must be earnest effort to obtain the blessing of the Lord, . . because we are unprepared to receive it .. It is our work, by confession, humiliation, repentance, and earnest prayer, to fulfill the conditions upon which God has promised to grant us His blessing..

“The church must arouse to action. The Spirit of God can never come in until she prepares the way. There should be earnest searching of heart. There should be united, persevering prayer, and through faith a claiming of the promises of God. There should be, not a clothing of the body with sack-cloth, as in ancient times, but a deep, humiliation of soul. We have not the first reason for self-congratulation and self-exaltation. We should humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God. He will appear to comfort and bless the true seekers.”- Review, March 22, 1887.

6 - There are too many of us who are lukewarm and unconcerned about this very important matter.

“To those who are indifferent at this time Christ’s warning is, ‘Because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold or hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth.’ Revelation 3:16. The figure of spewing out of His mouth means that he cannot offer up your prayers or your expressions of love to God. He cannot endorse your teaching of His word or your spiritual work in any wise.

He cannot present your religious exercises with the request that grace be given you.

“Could the curtain be rolled back, could you discern the purposes of God and the judgments that are about to fall upon a doomed world, could you see your own attitude, you would fear and tremble for your own souls and for the souls of your fellow men. Earnest prayers of heartrending anguish would go up to heaven. You would weep between the porch and the altar, confessing your spiritual blindness and backsliding.”-6 Testimonies, 408:2-3.

“How is it with the rising generation? Are they converted to God? Are we awake to the work that is going on in the heavenly sanctuary, or are we waiting for some compelling power to come upon the church before we shall arouse? Are we hoping to see the whole church revived? That time will never come.

“There are persons in the church who are not converted, and who will not unite in earnest, prevailing prayer. We must enter upon the work individually.”-Review, March 22, 1887.

“How can I talk, how can I write to my brethren, so that they will catch the beams of light flashing from heaven? What shall I say? The atmosphere of the church is so frigid, its spirit is of such an order, that men and women cannot sustain or endure the example of primitive and heaven-born piety. The warmth of their first love is frozen up, and unless they are watered over by the baptism of the Holy Spirit, their candlestick will be removed out of its place.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 167:2-168:O.

“Many have in a great measure failed to receive the former rain. They have not obtained all the benefits that God has thus provided for them. They expect that the lack will be supplied by the latter rain. When the richest abundance of grace shall be bestowed, they intend to open their hearts to receive it. They are making a terrible mistake.” -Testimonies to Ministers 507:1.

“I was shown that if God’s people make no efforts on their part, but wait for the refreshing to come upon them and remove their wrongs and correct their errors; if they depend upon that to cleanse them from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, and fit them to engage in the loud cry of the third angel, they will be found wanting.” -1 Testimonies, 619:1.

7 - We must individually repent of-and forsake-the Laodicean condition.

“I was shown that the testimony to the Laodiceans applies to God’s people at the present time, and the reason it has not accomplished a greater work is because of the hardness of their hearts.” -1 Testimonies, 186:1.

“The message to the church of the Laodiceans is a startling denunciation, and is applicable to the people of God at the present time. . The message of the True Witness finds the people of God in a sad deception. They know not that their condition Is deplorable in the sight of God.”-3 Testimonies, 252:1, 253:O.

“The Laodicean message applies to the people of God who profess to believe present truth. The greater part are lukewarm professors, having a name but no zeal.” -4 Testimonies, 87:1.

“Since the time of the Minneapolis meeting (The 1888 General Conference Session], I have seen the state of the Laodicean church as never before. . Like the Jews, many have closed their eyes, lest they should see.” -Review, August 26, 1890.

“What then is the reason that God, contemplating the condition of the church of Laodicea, sees one thing, while Laodicea, considering her own status, beholds an entirely different condition?

“Laodicea tends to observe her achievements, which are not inconsiderable. She thinks of her missionaries at the ends of the earth. She recalls the hospitals which her wealth has erected. She surveys her schools.. she counts her printing presses. . her stately houses of worship, she counts her membership.

“Her mind goes back to her humble beginning, and she traces with a subtle and unconscious pride her years of growth and progress. To Laodicea it is a splendid showing, and she is happy and complacent. She has a flawless doctrine, a competent organization, a triumphant message who can deny these things?

“But God, the Infinite Father of all, looks beyond all this. His awful gaze penetrates past Laodicea’s schools, sanitariums, and publishing houses, past her fine buildings and worthwhile equipment, past the growing membership and constantly widening sphere of influence, -and looks down upon Laodlcea’s heart.

“Here He witnesses pride, the sin by which the angels fell; the desire for human praise, the love of the world with all that the world offers. He sees the dangerous conformity to unchristian customs. The gold of character is strangely lacking, and its place taken by brilliant tinsel, which does not deceive the heavenly Watcher.

“The raiment of Christ’s righteousness, at once so simple and ample, is not worn; instead an ingenious arrangement of the filthy rags of Laodlcea’s own righteousness. Upon her eyes, festering with the sores of worldly shortsightedness, is no healing salve to strengthen and sanctify,” -Signs of the Times, November 14, 1933.

8 - In the strength of Christ, we must forsake the attitude of resistance to be working and infilling of the Holy Spirit.

“God brings against ministers and people the heavy charge of spiritual feebleness, saying, ‘I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot. . God calls for a spiritual revival and a spiritual reformation. Unless this takes place, those who are lukewarm will continue to grow more abhorrent to the lord, until He will refuse to acknowledge them as His children,”-Review, February 25, 1902.

“If men would only give up their spirit of resistance to the Holy Spirit-the spirit which has so long been leavening their religious experience,-God’s Spirit would address itself to their hearts, It would convince of sin. What a work! But the Holy Spirit has been insulted and light has been rejected. Is it possible for those who for years have been so blinded, to see? Is it possible that in this late stage of their resistance their eyes will be anointed? Will the voice of the Spirit of God be distinguished from the deceiving voice of the enemy?” -Testimonies to Ministers, 393:1.

“There must be no neglect of the grace represented by the former rain. Only those who are living up to the light they have will receive greater light. Unless we are daily advancing In the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be failing on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it.”-Testimonies to Ministers, 507:1.

“Why should we not prostrate ourselves at the throne of grace, as representatives of the church, and from a broken heart and contrite spirit make earnest supplication that the Holy Spirit shall be poured out upon us from on high? Let us pray that, when it shall be graciously bestowed, our cold hearts may be revived, and we may have discernment to understand that it is from God, and receive it with joy, Some have treated the Spirit as an unwelcome guest, refusing to receive the rich gift, refusing to acknowledge it, turning from it, and condemning it as fanaticism.” Testimonies to Ministers, 64:1.

“When the Holy Spirit works the human agent, It does not ask us in what way it shall operate. Often it moves in unexpected ways. . The Jews refused to receive Christ, because He did not come in accordance with their expectations. The ideas of finite men were held as infallible, because hoary with age.

“This is the danger to which the church is now exposed -that the Inventions of finite men shall mark out the precise way for the Holy Spirit to come. Though they would not care to acknowledge it, some have already done this.” Testimonies to Ministers, 64:2-3, 65:O.

“We cannot use the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us. Through the Spirit God works in His people ‘to will and to do of His good pleasure’ (Philippians 2:13). But many will not submit to this. They want to manage themselves. This is why they do not receive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given.” -Desire of Ages, 672:1.

9 - We must plead with God for a closer walk, and a deeper unity with fellow believers in the historic truths.

“What the Lord did for His people in that time (the time of the apostles], it is just as essential, and more so, that He do for His people today. All that the apostles did, every church-member today Is to do . . Should not the power of God be even more mightily revealed today than in the time of the .apostles?” -7 Testimonies, 33:1-2.

“Let your heart break for the longing it has for God, for the living God. The life of Christ has shown what humanity can do by being partaker of the divine nature. All that Christ received from God we too may have. Then ask and receive. With the persevering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding persistence of Elijah, claim for yourself all that God has promised.” - Christ Object Lessons, 149:2.

“If you will sincerely humble your hearts before Him, empty your souls of self-esteem, and put away the natural defects of your character, and overcome your love of supremacy, and come to God as little children, He will bestow on you His Holy Spirit. When two or three shall agree as touching anything, and shall ask the Lord, In the name of Jesus, it shall be done for them.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 323:2-324:O.

“All who profess the name of Christ should be waiting, watching, and praying with one heart. All differences should be put away, and unity and tender love one for another pervade the whole. Then our prayers may go up together to our heavenly Father with strong, earnest faith. Then we may wait with patience and hope the fulfillment of the promise.

“The answer may come with sudden velocity and overpowering might; or It may be delayed for days and weeks, and our faith receive a trial. But God knows how and when to answer our prayer. It Is our part of the work to put ourselves In connection with the divine channel. God is responsible for His part of the work. The great and important matter with us is to be of one heart and mind, putting aside all envy and malice, and as humble supplicants, to watch and wait. Jesus, our Representative and Head, is ready to do for us what He did for the praying, watching ones on the day of Pentecost.” -General Conference Bulletin, 1893, 165-166; 3 Spirit of Prophecy, 272-273.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

LATTER RAIN

The Latter Rain to Come With Ten Times the Power of the Midnight Cry- “I saw (that] the Latter Rain was coming as suddenly as the Midnight Cry and with ten times the power.” Vision of August 24, 1850, p. 2. (“Copied from O. Hewitt’s book” in the Apocryphal file, but see Daily Bulletin of the General Conference, February 5, 1893, p. 152, where it is quoted.)

The Loud Cry

The loud cry is the climax of the entire cluster of events that begins with the successful urging of the national Sunday law, and ends at the general close of probation. Yet, it leads to still another climax: the fourth angel’s message.

Because of the nature of the entire situation, the loud cry begins very soon after the enactment of the national Sunday law.

As soon as the law is passed, professed and former Sabbath keepers are the first to knowingly make their decisions, for or against God’s holy day. As one class receives the seal, the other receives the mark.

The class receiving the seal has had just that happen to them: they have been sealed into the truth as the judgment in heaven accounts them worthy of eternal life. Their sins are blotted out of the book of sin, their names are retained forever in the book of life, and the Holy Spirit is poured upon them-in order that they might be strengthened for a special work: the giving of the loud cry to all the world.

(Keep in mind that not all are sealed at once or at the same time. The sealing-reception of the latter rain - giving of the loud cry is a progressive work in the lives of men and women throughout the planet, as the law is passed in their nation, they learn and understand the issues, and make their decision.)

For every heaven-sent message, there is a counterfeit. Satan’s opposition to the loud cry is a host of wonder-working activities, which we discussed in considerable detail in an earlier study (“The False Latter Rain”). Apparent miracle-working of all kinds occurs, and heathen deities apparently return. Demons take human form; to arouse and lead the masses in demonstrations against the faithful.

In striking contrast, the faithful are presenting the final message to a dying world-a message of God’s love, as shown in a correct view of righteousness by faith (Revelation 14:12), which may be summarized as obedience by enabling faith in Christ to the law of God. That is the third angel’s message (Revelation 14:12), combined with a warning not to obey the beast and keep its law of disobedience (Revelation 14:9-11). What greater message of love is there than this: that we can be empowered by God of love to obey Him and live clean lives? That is our last-day message to the world! It is a message we should now be giving..

The “loud cry” is not some disconnected activity; it is the loud cry of the third angel. It is the climatic final giving of that message (a message, which we are told, includes the messages of the first and second angels.)

An entire world must rapidly and powerfully be told the truth about the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. They must be told that the commandments must be kept and that it is the faith of Jesus which, alone, can enable mankind to keep them.

Everyone, everywhere is having an opportunity to decide between the truth of God and the fakeries of Satan. But then, suddenly, a powerful new addition arrives: the fourth angel is sent from the throne of God with a special assignment. It is his work to strengthen the message to come out from Babylon -and give it fullest power. Only very rarely before in human history has there been even a brief glimpse of this display of divine power through the lives and words of men.

At some point in the swelling intensity of all this, Satan appears. One statement in an earlier study (“The False Latter Rain”) indicated that, in desperation, Satan finally personally appears to mankind as the personated Christ (Last Day Events, 164:1). The present writer leans toward the thinking that this appearance of Satan is his attempted counterfeit of the fourth angel’s work. But of this we can have no certainty. But we do know that, at some point during the loud cry, Satan will appear at various places throughout the world as a personated Christ.

First comes the urging and enactment of the national Sunday law. Then comes the sealing and latter rain (or the marking and false latter rain). Then starts the loud cry (as Satanic manifestations intensify). Then the fourth angel comes down to strengthen the loud cry -and swell it into a message of astounding power. (Perhaps it is at this time, if not earlier, that Satan appears as a counterfeit Christ.)

In this study, we will both the loud cry, and the powerful swelling of that message by the fourth angel. It is of interest that there are a remarkably large number of quotations on these two subjects. In the mind of the One who inspired the Spirit of Prophecy, it was considered a very important topic.

The sealing/latter rain/loud cry cluster should be of crucial concern to us. It will be an accelerating display of mammoth divine power. When it is ended, it is ended. There is no more probationary message from Heaven to the world. As soon as the four angels return to heaven to report to Jesus that their work is finished, the general close of probation occurs.

TIMING OF THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE

It is not possible to set a date for the occurrence of the loud cry, or to determine time spans leading to or away from it. In addition, we should not include time-setting in our presentation of that message (Early Writings 72). This message does not need time-setting in order to strengthen it (Early Writings 75). It must never be hung on time (1SM 188). God has never revealed a definite time for the close of the last message (7BC 989-990; 1SM 191), for, indeed, there are no more messages of any kind to be given by man that are based on time (6BC 1052; 7BC 971; 1SM 188) and no man has a true message of definite time (2SM 113). This is because no man is able to predict the time of any future event (Evangelism 221). He cannot know definite time (6BC 1052; Evangelism 221; 1 SM 188; 6T 440). See our tract study, It’s No Time for Time Excitement [PG-21], for many more quotations.

GOD’S PEOPLE IN THE OTHER CHURCHES

God’s people are in all the churches.

“The Lord has His representatives in all the churches. These persons have not had the special testing truths for these last days presented to them under circumstances that brought conviction to heart and mind; therefore they have not, by rejecting light, severed their connection with God.” - 6 Testimonies, 70:4-71:O.

“Notwithstanding the spiritual darkness and alienation from God that exist in the churches which constitute Babylon, the great body of Christ’s true followers are still to be found in their communion.” -Great Controversy, 390:1.

WHAT SHOULD GOD’S PEOPLE DO ON SUNDAYS?

The following passages indicate that, during the Sunday-law crisis, (1) we should not, publicly, give others the impression that we are resting on Sunday in honor of the Sunday Sabbath. (2) We can quietly work in our homes on that day. (3) We can quietly rest during part of that day, when there is no likelihood we may be doing so to compromise our faith or exalt the Sunday Sabbath. But Sunday is a working day, not a sacred day of rest. (4) The best plan is, in time of local or national crisis, to use Sunday as an active missionary day -and spend it visiting and giving Bible studies. These four points summarize what to do on Sunday during the coming crisis.

We should not reverence the first day as though it were the Sabbath.

“We must take a firm stand that we will not reverence the first day of the week as the Sabbath, for it is not the day that was blessed and sanctified by Jehovah, and in reverencing Sunday we should place ourselves on the side of the great deceiver..

“When the law of God has been made void and apostasy becomes a national sin, the Lord will work in behalf of His people.”-3 Selected Messages, 388:3, 5.

During the Sunday law crisis, God’s people should refrain from open labor on the first day of the week.

“In regard to the Southern field, the work there must be done as wisely and carefully as possible, and it must be done in the manner in which Christ would work. The people will soon find out what you believe about Sunday and the Sabbath for they will ask questions. Then you can tell them, but not in such a manner as to attract attention to your work. You need not cut short your work by yourself laboring on Sunday.

“Refraining from work on Sunday is not receiving the mark of the beast. In places where the opposition is so strong as to arouse persecution, if work is done on Sunday, let our brethren make that day an occasion to do genuine missionary work.” -Last Day Events, 138:4-139:1.

We can use it for evangelistic and medical missionary work.

“At one time those in charge of our school at Avondale inquired of me, saying: ‘What shall we do? The officers of the law have been commissioned to arrest those working on Sunday.’ I replied: ‘It will be very easy to avoid that difficulty. Give Sunday to the Lord as a day for doing missionary work. Take the students out to hold meetings in different places, and to do medical missionary work. They will find the people at home and will have a splendid opportunity to present the truth. This way of spending Sunday is always acceptable to the Lord.’ “ - 9 Testimonies, 238:1.

We can visit and hold meetings on that day.

“When the practices of the people do not come In conflict with the law of God, you may conform to them. If the workers fail to do this, they will not only hinder their own work, but they will place stumbling blocks in the way of those for whom they labor, and hinder them from accepting the truth. On Sunday there is the very best opportunity for those who are missionaries to hold Sunday schools, and come to the people in the simplest manner possible, telling them of the love of Jesus for sinners, and educating them in the Scriptures..

“The light that I have is that God’s servants should go quietly to work, preaching the grand, precious truths of the Bible -Christ and Him crucified, His love and infinite sacrifice -showing that the reason why Christ died is because the law of God is immutable, unchangeable, eternal. The Sabbath must be taught in a decided manner, but be cautious how you deal with the Idol Sunday. A word to the wise is sufficient..

“Refraining from work on Sunday is not receiving the mark of the beast; and where this will advance the interests of the work, it should be done. We should not go out of our way to work on Sunday.” - Maranatha, 177:1-5.

So then, give evangelistic lectures, do medical missionary work, and give Bible studies on that day, -but DO NOT hold or attend WORSHIP services on Sunday! We can assume this would especially require us NOT to hold Sunday MORNING meetings. (Bear in mind that an Easter sunrise service would be a Sunday morning worship service.) Obey God rather than men.

“The people of God will recognize human government as an ordinance of divine appointment and will by precept and example teach obedience to it as a sacred duty so long as its authority is exercised within its legitimate sphere. But when its claims conflict with the claims of God we must choose to obey God rather than men. The Word of God must be recognized and obeyed as an authority above that of all human legislation. ‘Thus said the Lord’ Is not to be set aside for a ‘Thus said the church or the state. ‘ The crown of Christ Is to be uplifted above all the diadems of earthly potentates.” -Last Day Events, 142:1.

THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE WARNS

The first part of the third angel’s message (Revelation 14:9-11) is the announcement of a fearful judgment to come upon those who will worship the beast and his image (Great Controversy, page 594). It is combined with the second part (Revelation 14:12), which is declares that mankind can, by faith in Jesus Christ, obey God’s holy law.

The loud cry message is not about all the little trivia and manufactured messages that people imagine that it comprises. It is the third angel’s message of Revelation 14:9-12, which includes the first and second angels’ messages of 14:6-8.

It is given to prepare a people to stand through the final conflict.

“To prepare a people to stand in the day of God, a great work of reform was to be accomplished. God saw that many of His professed people were not building for eternity, and in His mercy He was about to send a message of warning to arouse them from their stupor and lead them to make ready for the coming of the Lord.

“This warning is brought to view in Revelation 14. Here is a threefold message represented as proclaimed by heavenly beings and immediately followed by the coming of the Son of man to reap ‘the harvest of the earth.’ “ -Great Controversy, 311:2-3.

The sins of Babylon will be laid open.

“Heretofore those who presented the truths of the third angel’s message have often been regarded as mere alarmists. Their predictions that religious intolerance would gain control in the United States, that church and state would unite to persecute those who keep the commandments of God, have been pronounced groundless and absurd. . But as the question of enforcing Sunday observance is widely agitated, the event so long doubted and disbelieved is seen to be approaching, and the third message will produce an effect which it could not have had before.

“Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them. The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of enforcing the observances of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power-all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings the people will be stirred.”-Great Controversy, 605-606.

OBEDIENCE TO THE GOD’S LAWS

The first part of the third angel’s message is a warning not to receive the mark (Rev 14:911). The second part is what to do in order not to receive the mark (Rev 14:12). This second part is a clear statement of righteousness by faith, which is obedience by faith in Christ’s enabling merits.

The third angel’s message is a message of righteousness by faith in Christ (Testimonies To Ministers, page 91-93). It is, in verity, a message of justification by faith (Evangelism 190; 1 SM 372; Testimonies To Ministers, page 92-93).

Keeping the commandments of God, through enabling faith in Jesus Christ His Son.

“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus,”-Revelation 14:12.

It is the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the sin-pardoning Savior.

“The time of test is just before us, for the loud cry of the third angel has already begun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the sin-pardoning Redeemer. This is the beginning of the light of the angel whose glory shall fill the whole earth.”- 1 Selected Messages, 363:O.

It is a revelation of God’s character.

“The last message of mercy to be given to the world is a revelation of His character of love. The children of God are to manifest His glory. In their own life and character they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them,”- Christ’s Object Lesson, 415:5-416:O.

It is a message of how deep the love of God is -that it can lift man out of the pit of sin. It is a message of forgiveness and empowered obedience. It is the message of how men and women can be restored to clean, pure sons and daughters of God.

“The message of Christ’s righteousness is to sound from one end of the earth to the other to prepare the way of the Lord. This is the glory of God, which closes the work of the third angel.” 6 Testimonies, 19:1.

Note: A careful study of Spirit of Prophecy statements on the topic of “righteousness by faith” reveals that ninety-five percent of them, in context, are speaking about obedience to the commandments of God through faith in Christ’s righteousness. The other five percent concern forgiveness, without mentioning obe-dience. (If you question this, read our compilation of every righteousness by faith quotation we could find in the Spirit of Prophecy: Message of Minneapolis-Part 1-4 [FF 22-25], also included in our Inspirational Tract book.)

THIRD ANGEL POINTS MANKIND

Chapter 60 of Early Writings is entitled “The Third Angel’s Message.” Three times in that chapter, on three different pages, we are told that the third angel points those who accept his message to the most holy place where Jesus is ministering for them. This is important! It is crucial that, by faith, we enter the most holy place where our High Priest is; there to fall at the feet of our Savior, as we plead for forgiveness. Arising, He shows us the unchanging law to be obeyed, and we behold the mercy seat and our pleading Savior who alone can strengthen us to obey.

In the next section of this study, we will learn that the messages of all three angels are included in the third. But the third angel points us to the Sanctuary in heaven where Jesus ministers on our behalf before His Father and the holy law, which is the basis of His throne and His holy government. We need to understand all three messages, and it is in Jesus and in the sanctuary message that we learn them best. The answers to all mankind’s problems are centered in that sacred place, for there we find Jesus, the forgiving empowering Savior; and there we find the moral law which, in His strength, we must obey.

The third angel’s message, which was initially given from 1844 onward, points those who accept it to the heavenly sanctuary where Jesus is ministering on their behalf.

“As the ministration of Jesus closed in the holy place, and He passed into the holiest, and stood before the ark containing the law of God, He sent another mighty angel with a third message to the world. A parchment was placed in the angel’s hand, and as he descended to the earth in power and majesty, he proclaimed a fearful warning, with the most terrible threatening ever borne to man.

“This message was designed to put the children of God upon their guard, by showing them the hour of temptation and anguish that was before them. Said the angel, ‘They will be brought into close combat with the beast and his image. Their only hope of eternal life is to remain steadfast. Although their lives are at stake, they must hold fast the truth.’

“The third angel closes his message thus: ‘Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’ As he repeated these words, he pointed to the heavenly sanctuary. The minds of all who embrace this message are directed to the most holy place, where Jesus stands before the ark, making His final intercession.” - Early Writings, 254:1.

There are two distinct parts to the third angel’s message: the first is the warning to avoid receiving the mark (Rev 14:9-11); the second is the means by which to obey God and avoid the mark (Rev 14:12). In the above passage, It Is clear that the second part is the most important, for It Is repeated. In order to clarify Its meaning, as he repeats Revelation 14:12 a second time, the third angel points the listeners to the most holy place! In doing so, he is fulfilling the prophecy of Revelation 11:19:

“And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen In His temple the ark of His testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.” (For more on this Important subject, see Early Writings, 32, 42, 254-256; Great Controversy, 415, 433-435, 453-454; Patriarchs and Prophets, 356; 1 Testimonies 76; and 2 Testimonies, 693. Of equal importance -and bearing directly on this -is Great Controversy, 423-425, and 432.)

The third angel points the hearers to the heavenly sanctuary a second time.

“After Jesus opened the door of the most holy, the light of the Sabbath was seen, and the people of God were tested, as the children of Israel were tested anciently, to see if they would keep God’s law. I saw the third angel pointing upward, showing the disappointed ones the way to the holiest of the heavenly sanctuary. As they by faith enter the most holy, they find Jesus, and hope and joy spring up anew. . The third angel has lighted up the past, the present, and the future, and they know that God has indeed led them by His mysterious providence.

“It was represented to me that the remnant followed Jesus into the most holy place and behold the ark and the mercy seat, and were captivated with their glory. Jesus then raised the cover of the ark, and lo! the tables of stone, with the ten commandments written upon them. They trace down the lively oracles, but start back with trembling when they see the fourth commandment among the ten holy precepts, with a brighter light shining upon it than upon the other nine, and a halo of glory around it.” -Early Writings, 254:2-255:1.

Then the third angel points the faithful for a third time to the most holy place in heaven.

“Many who embraced the third message had not had an experience in the two former messages. Satan understood this, and his evil eye was upon them to overthrow them; but the third angel was pointing them to the most holy place, and those who had had an experience in the past messages were pointing them the way to the heavenly sanctuary. Many saw the perfect chain of truth in the angels’ messages, and gladly received them in their order, and followed Jesus by faith into the heavenly sanctuary. These messages were represented to me as an anchor to the people of God. Those who understand and receive them will be kept from being swept away by the many delusions of Satan.” -Early Writings, 258:2.

Three times the third angel points us to the second apartment of the heavenly Sanctuary. Our salvation is to be found there. The final message to mankind is centered there.

MESSAGES OF ALL THREE ANGELS

The third angel’s message includes the messages of the first and second angels.

The first angel’s message proclaims two special truths which point to the Creator: (1) The weekly climactic worship of the true God is to take place on the Seventh day of the week, the memorial of Creation. (2) All should acknowledge and worship the true God as the Creator; therefore atheistic and evolutionary concepts are most blasphemous and terrible evils.

The second angel’s message is a powerful call to come out of the apostate churches. The last part of the third angel’s message identifies those churches as the ones which do not, by faith in Christ, obey God’s commandments.

The third angel’s message has two distinct aspects: (1) A most terrible warning to shun the apostasy of the commandment-breakers, who observe a false Sunday-Sabbath. (2) An urgent call to repent and obey the commandments of God by faith in the enabling merits of Jesus Christ.

Pages 436-439 of Great Controversy will provide you with additional information regarding the three messages.

The three steps -the final messages to the world -need no imagined improvements.

“I saw a company who stood well guarded and firm, giving no countenance to those who would unsettle the established faith of the body. God looked upon them with approbation. I was shown three steps-the first, second, and third angels’ messages. Said my accompanying angel; ‘Woe to him who shall move a block or stir a pin of these messages. The true understanding of these messages is of vital importance. The destiny of souls hangs upon the manner in which they are received.’ I was again brought down through these messages, and saw how dearly the people of God had purchased their experience.” -Early Writings, 258:3259:O.

The threefold message, accepted, results in perfect obedience to God’s law through Christ’s enabling strength.

“These truths, as presented in Revelation 14 in connection with ‘the everlasting gospel,’ will distinguish the church of Christ at the time of His appearing. For as the result of the threefold message it is announced: ‘Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’ And this message is the last to be given before the coming of the Lord.” - Great Controversy, 453:3-454:O.

The messages are to be combined:

“The three angels’ messages are to be combined, giving their threefold light to the world. In the Revelation, John says, ‘I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.’ . . This represents the giving of the last and threefold “-7 Bible Commentary, 985/2:2.

EVENTS BEFORE THE LOUD CRY

The marking command prompts the giving of the loud cry of the third angel.

“ ‘The beast with lamblike horns speaks with the voice of a dragon and ‘exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him.’ Prophecy declares that he will say to them that dwell on the earth ‘that they should make an image to the beast,’ and that ‘It will cause all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand or in their foreheads; and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.’ Thus Protestantism follows in the steps of papacy.

“It is at this time that the third angel is seen flying In the midst of heaven, proclaiming, ‘If any man worship the beast or his image, and receive his mark in his forehead or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.’-’Here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.’ “Manuscript 51, 1899.

The marking order precedes the fourth angel’s message.

“He causeth all both small and great, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads.’ Not only are men not to work with their hands on Sunday, but with the minds they are to acknowledge Sunday as the Sabbath. ‘And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark or the number of his name.’

Those rejecting the first angel’s message could not be benefited by the second (Early Writings 249, 260). The second angel’s message was a warning that Babylon had fallen (Testimonies To Ministers, page 59), and called the people out of Babylon (Early Writings 241-243)-the nominal churches (Early Writings 243). The popular churches rejected this message (Early Writings 237), and it was proclaimed far and wide in 1844 (LS 59). At that time, it especially applied to the Protestant churches of America which had rejected the Advent message proclaimed by the Millerites (Great Controversy, page 389). This message brought a large company came out of the fallen churches (Early Writings 238). Although first given in 1844 (Great Controversy, page 389), it did not reach its complete fulfillment at that time (Great Controversy, page 389). This message has a past and present application, and it is erroneous to think that it is entirely future (Evangelism 613). It is a most solemn message (CD 76) and a terrible denunciation (7T 140). It is given in connection with the first and third angel’s messages (CD 209).

The midnight cry, sounded in 1844, was given near the close of the second angel’s message (Early Writings 238), and was closely associated with it (LS 59), and gave power to it (Early Writings 238239, 277). Indeed, the midnight cry actually united with the second angel’s message (Great Controversy, page 402), and was not able to benefit those who rejected it.

This message must be proclaimed a second time (Great Controversy, page 603; Testimonies To Ministers, page 59), and must go to every continent and every island in the sea (Evangelism 19; GW 470). Not a peg or pin of this message is to be removed (CW 26). It did not have a complete fulfillment in 1844 (Great Controversy, page 389), and its perfect fulfillment is yet future (Great Controversy, page 390).

THE FOURTH ANGEL STRENGTHENS THE LOUD CRY

The first angel’s message was initially given by William Miller and his associates from 1840 to 1844 (7BC 971; Evangelism 390; Early Writings 232; Great Controversy, page 398, 611), and the prophecy regarding it was fulfilled at that time (Story Of Redemption, page 356). It announced the hour of God’s investigative judgment (Great Controversy, page 311, 379). This message continues to be given today and, by its call to worship the Creator, points men to the true Sabbath (2SM 105). That call would also include a denunciation of evolutionary teachings-which deny the existence of the Creator. The first angel’s message is linked to the messages of the second and third angels (6T 17), and requires obedience to the law of God (Great Controversy, page 436). That message must go to all people (Great Controversy, page 450), and be proclaimed in the time of the end (Testimonies To Ministers, page 115).

There cannot be a third angel’s message without the second angel’s message (CW 27), for the third angel’s message is closely linked to it (7BC 980; CW 26,29-30; Evangelism 196; 8T 197).

The message of the Second angel will be repeated during the loud cry, when the message of the third angel is proclaimed (7BC 985; Early Writings 277). But it will also be repeated -and mightily strengthened -in the giving of the message of the Revelation 18:1-5 message (Great Controversy, page 390; 7BC 985; Early Writings 277; 2SM 116, 118; Testimonies To Ministers, page 59). The Revelation 18 angel will come to earth and unite his voice with that of the second angel (7BC 983; Great Controversy, page 390). The people will be given an urgent call to leave the Sunday-keeping churches and unite with the remnant. The message will go to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people (Evangelism 19; GW 470), and will be proclaimed to every nation on earth (PK 187).

In the previous study, we considered the nature and broad scope of the loud cry of the third angel, prior to its strengthening by the fourth angel. In this present study, we will turn our attention to what happens when the fourth angel comes down and powerfully strengthens the second angel’s message. A power is added to the overall presentation which has a terrific impact; an impact which continues on down to the general close of probation.

WORLD WILL FULLY AWAKEN

1 - Babylon has made all nations drink -by forcing Sunday keeping.

“ ‘She made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication’ (Revelation 14:6-8). How is this done? By forcing men to accept a spurIous Sabbath.” - 8 Testimonies, 94:2.

First, the law of God will be made void by the legislature, then the sins of Babylon will have reached unto heaven. Then the Revelation 18 angel will sound.

“When do her sins reach unto heaven [Revelation 18:2-5]? When the law of God Is finally made void by legislation.” -Last Day Events, 198:5.

“When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation 18, the religious elements, both good and evil, awake from their slumbers, and the armies of the living God will take the field.” -7 Bible Commentary, 983/1:2.

THE SECOND ANGEL’S MESSAGE

1 - The fourth angel’s message is an amplification of the second.

Thus the substance of the second angel’s message is again given to the world by that other angel who lightens the earth with his glory.

REVELATION 18 ANGEL’S MESSAGE

1 - The fourth angel brings power -and an added message- to the final call.

These messages all blend in one, to come before the people in the closing days of this earth’s history. All the world will be tested, and all that have been in the darkness of error in regard to the Sabbath of the fourth commandment will understand the last message of mercy that is to be given to men.

“Our work is to proclaim the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.” –2 Selected Messages, 116:2-3.

2 - The second angel’s message is repeated and added to by fourth.

“[Revelation 18:1-2,4, quoted.] This scripture points forward to a time when the announcement of the fall of Babylon, as made by the second angel of Revelation 14 (verse 8), is to be repeated, with the additional mention of the corruptions which have been entering the various organizations that constitute Babylon, since that message was first given, in the summer of 1844 . . These announcements, uniting with the third angel’s message, constitute the final warning to be given to the inhabitants of the earth..

“I saw angels hurrying to and fro in heaven, descending to the earth, and again ascending to heaven, preparing for the fulfillment of some important event. Then I saw another mighty angel commissioned to descend to the earth, to unite his voice with the third angel, and give power and force to his message. Great power and glory were imparted to the angel, and as he descended, the earth was lightened with his glory. The light which attended this angel penetrated everywhere, as he cried mightily, with a strong voice, ‘Bab-ylon the great is fallen, is fallen.” -Early Writings, 277.

2 - The fourth angel will lighten the whole earth,

“The angel who unites in the proclamation of the third angel’s message is to lighten the whole earth with his glory.” -Great Controversy, 611:1.

GREAT POWER AND WORLDWIDE EXTENT

The loud cry will be a great light shining, amid earth’s deepening darkness.

“Amidst the deepening shadows of earth’s last great crisis, God’s light will shine brightest, and the song of hope and trust will be heard In clearest and loftiest strains.” -Education, 166:7.

8 - It will go to every city and town.

“During the loud cry the church, aided by the providential interpositions of her exalted Lord, will diffuse the knowledge of salvation so abundantly that light will be communicated to every city and town.” - Evangelism, 694:1.

“In every city In America the truth is to be proclaimed. In every country of the world the warning message is to be given.”-Last Day Events, 208:3.--

9 - It will be accompanied by great power, and will go to all the world.

“A work of world-wide extent and unwonted power is here foretold.” -Great Controversy, 611:1.

10 - Floods of power will be poured out.

“Floods of spiritual power are to be poured forth upon those prepared to receive it.” -8 Testimonies, 46:1.

11 - It will fully accomplish its objective.

“This prophecy [Joel 2:28] received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel.” Great Controversy, IX:3 (Introduction).

12 - The message will go to every part of the world.

“In heathen Africa, in the Catholic lands of Europe and of South America, in China, in India, in the islands of the sea, and in all the dark corners of the earth, God has in reserve a firmament of chosen ones that will yet shine forth amidst the darkness, revealing clearly to an apostate world the transforming power of obedience to His law. Even now they are appearing in every nation, among every tongue and people; and in

the hour of deepest apostasy, when Satan’s supreme effort is made to cause “all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond,” to receive, under penalty of death, the sign of allegiance to a false rest day, these faithful ones, “blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,“ will “shine as lights in the world.” The darker the night, the more brilliantly will they shine.”- Prophets and Kings, pp. 188, 189.

“The special characteristic of the beast, and therefore of his image, is the breaking of God’s commandments.”-Great Controversy, 446:1.

“In the issue of the contest all Christendom will be divided into two great classes-those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his Image and receive his mark. Although church and state will unite their power to compel ‘all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond’ (Revelation 13:16), to receive ‘the mark of the beast,’ yet the people of God will not receive It.” -Great Controversy, 450:1.

“The cross of Calvary, while it declares the law immutable, proclaims to the universe that the wages of sin is death. In the Savior’s expiring cry, ‘It is finished,’ the death knell of Satan was rung. The great controversy which had been so long in progress was then decided, and the final eradication of evil was made certain. . When ‘the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; . . all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, said the lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.’ Malachi 4:1.

The future is bright, as long as we cling to Jesus. He has a wonderful eternity awaiting us. He will lead His flock down through countless ages of peace and happiness. Life without end! Oh, my friend, we must be there!

I know you want it! May God help us -each one -to be faithful to the end.

IN CHRIST YOU CAN OVERCOME

1 - The following statements explain how we can resist temptation and overcome sin in the strength of Christ. These statements are self-explanatory and need little introduction. Yes, the requirements are very high, but the enabling is just as high! Sufficient to the day’s needs will be the amount of grace given. But it is only imparted to those who are pressing close -every moment -to the side of Christ, and looking solely to Him for help, wisdom, and strength. Through the empowering grace of Christ we can obey all that God asks of us in His Inspired Books.

“By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness.” - Christ’s Object Lessons, 312:O.

“And how this is accomplished, Christ has shown us. By what means did He overcome in the conflict with Satan? -By the word of God. Only by the word could He resist temptation. ‘It is written,’ He said. And unto us are given ‘exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.’ (2 Peter 1:4.) Every promise In God’s word is ours. ‘By every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God’ as we to live. When assailed by temptation, look not to circumstances or to the weakness of self, but to the power of the word. All its strength is yours. ‘Thy word,’ says the psalmist, ‘have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. ‘ ‘By the words of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.’ “-The Desire of Ages, 123:4.

“Christ is our tower of strength, and Satan can have no power over the soul that walks with God in humility of mind. The promise, ‘Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me; and he shall make peace with Me.’ In Christ there is perfect and complete help for every tempted soul. Dangers beset every path, but the whole universe of heaven is standing on guard, that none may be tempted above that which he is able to bear. Some have strong traits of character, that will need to be constantly repressed. If kept under the control of the Spirit of God, these traits will be a blessing; but if not, they will prove a curse. . If we will give ourselves unselfishly to the work, never swerving in the least from principle, the Lord will throw about us the everlasting arms, and will prove a mighty helper. If we will look to Jesus as the One in whom we may trust, He will never fall us in any emergency.” -My Life Today, 916:4

“It is not necessary that anyone should yield to the temptations of Satan and thus violate his conscience and grieve the Holy Spirit. Every provision has been made in the word of God whereby all may have divine help in their endeavors to overcome. If they keep Jesus before them they will become changed Into His Image.” -5 Testimonies, 574:2.

“The enemy cannot overcome the humble learner of Christ, the one who walks prayerfully before the Lord. Christ interposes Himself as a shelter, a retreat, from the assaults of the wicked one.

“Satan was permitted to tempt the too confident Peter, as he had been permitted to tempt Job; but when that work was done he had to retire. Had Satan been suffered to have his way, there would have been no hope for Peter. He would have made complete shipwreck of faith. But the enemy dare not go one hairbreadth beyond his appointed sphere. There is no power in the whole satanic force that can disable the soul that trusts, In simple confidence, in the wisdom that comes from God.” -My Life Today, 316:2-3.

“In our own strength it is Impossible for us to deny the clamors of our fallen nature. Through this channel Satan will bring temptation upon us. Christ knew that the enemy would come to every human being, to take advantage of hereditary weakness, and by his false insinuations to ensnare all whose trust is not in God. And by passing over the ground which man must travel, our Lord has prepared the way for us to overcome. It is not His will that we should be placed at a disadvantage in the conflict with Satan.” -The Desire of Ages, 122:3.

“Let him who is struggling against the power of appetite, look to the Savior in the wilderness of temptation. See Him in His agony upon the cross, as He exclaimed, ‘I thirst.’ He has endured all that it is possible for us to bear. His victory is ours.

“There was in Him nothing that responded to Satan’s sophistry. He did not consent to sin. Not even by a thought did He yield to temptation. So it may be with us. Christ’s humanity was united with divinity; He was fitted for the conflict by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. And He came to make us partakers of the divine nature. So long as we are united to Him by faith, sin has no more dominion over us. God reaches for the hand of faith in us to direct it to lay fast hold upon the divinity of Christ, that we may attain to per-fection of character.” -The Desire of Ages, 122:4-123:3.

“Jesus does not desire those who have been purchased at such a cost to become the sport of the enemy’s temptations. He does not desire us to be overcome and perish. He who curbed the lions in their den, and walked with His faithful witnesses amid the fiery flames, Is Just as ready to work In our behalf to subdue every evil In our nature. Today He is standing at the altar of mercy, presenting before God the prayers of those who desire His help. He turns no weeping, contrite one away..

“The souls that turn to Him for refuge, Jesus lifts above the accusing and the strife of tongues. No man or evil angel can impeach these souls. Christ unites them to His own divine human nature.” -The Ministry of Healing, 90:1-2.

“The condition of eternal life Is now Just what It always has been, -just what it was in Paradise before the fall of our first parents,-perfect obedience to the law of God, perfect righteousness. If eternal life were granted on any condition short of this, then the happiness of the whole universe would be imperilled.” - Steps to Christ, 62:1.

“Since we are sinful, unholy, we cannot perfectly obey the holy law. . But Christ has made a way of escape for us. He lived on earth amid trials and temptations such as we have to meet.

He lived a sinless life. He died for us, and now He offers to take our sins and give us His righteousness. If you give yourself to Him, and accept Him as your Savior, then, sinful as your life may have been, for His sake you are accounted righteous. Christ’s character stands in place of your character, and you are accepted before God Just as If you had not sinned. More than this, Christ changes the heart. He abides in your heart by faith. You are to maintain this connection with Christ by faith and the continual surrender of your will to Him; and so long as you do this, He will work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure. So you may say, ‘The life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God. . ‘ Then with Christ working in you, you will manifest the same spirit and do the same good works -works of righteousness, obedience.

“So we have nothing in ourselves of which to boast. We have no ground for self-exaltation. Our only ground of hope is in the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought by His Spirit working in and through us.” -Steps to Christ, 62:2-63:1.

“Christ prepared the way for the ransom of man by His own life of suffering, self-denial, and self-sacrifice, and by His humiliation and final death. He brought help to man that he might, by following Christ’s example, overcome on his own account, as Christ has overcome for him.”-3 Testimonies; 372:1.

“It Is His purpose to bring them into so close connection with Himself that Satan shall have no opportunity to pervert their judgment or to overpower their conscience. He will reveal to them their defects of character,

and bestow upon all who seek His aid, strength to correct their errors. Whatever may be man’s besetting sin, whatever bitter or baleful passions struggle for the mastery, he may conquer, If he will watch and war against them in the name and strength of Israel’s Helper.

“The children of God should cultivate a keen sensitiveness to sin. Here, as well as elsewhere, we should not despise the day of small things. It is one of Satan’s most successful devices, to lead men to the commission of little sins, to blind the mind to the danger of little indulgences, little digressions from the plainly stated requirements of God. Many who would shrink with horror from some great transgression, are led to look upon sin in little matters as of trifling consequence. But these little sins eat out the life of godliness in the soul.

“We must learn to distrust self and to rely wholly upon God for guidance and support, for a knowledge of His will, and for strength to perform it.”-2 Bible Commentary, 1017:3-4.

“The child of God must search out the sin which he has petted and indulged himself in, and permit God to cut it out of his heart. He must overcome that one sin; for it is not a trifling matter in the sight of God..

“The Lord has not given us a list of graded sins, so that we may reckon some as of little consequence, and say that they will do but little harm, while others are of greater magnitude and will do much harm.

“A chain is no stronger than is its weakest link. . The work of overcoming is to be the study of every soul who enters the kingdom of God.” Messages to Young People, 91:1-3.

“He does not palliate sin, nor lessen the sense of guilt. . men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner.” -Desire of Ages, 462:3-4.

“It should be made plain that the government of God knows no compromise with evil. . We should beware of treating sin as a light thing. Terrible is its power over the wrongdoer.” His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins.” Proverbs 5:22. The greatest wrong done to a child or youth is to allow him to become fastened in the bondage of evil habit.” Education PG- 291

8 - A large number will take their stand.

“The message will be carried not so much by argument as by deep conviction of the Spirit of God. The arguments have been presented. The seed has been sown, and now it will spring up and bear fruit. The publications distributed by missionary workers have exerted their influence, yet many whose minds were impressed have been prevented from fully comprehending the truth or from yielding obedience. Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen in its clearness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held them.

Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the Lord’s side.”-Great Controversy, 612:2.

9 - Thousands will be converted in a day.

“Thousands in the eleventh hour will see and acknowledge the truth. . These conversions to truth will be made with a rapidity that will surprise the church, and God’s name alone will be glorified.”-2 Selected Messages, 16:1, 3.

“There will be many converted to the truth in a day who at the eleventh hour see and acknowledge the truth and the movements of the Spirit of God.” -Last Day Events, 212:2.

“The time Is coming when there will be as many converted in a day as there were on the Day of Pentecost, after the disciples had received the Holy Spirit.” -Evangelism, 692:2.

IT WILL BE REJECTED BY MOST

1 - The vast majority will reject it.

“Some will listen to these warnings, but by the vast majority they will be disregarded.”-In Heavenly Places, 343:4.

2 - The greater number of the hearers will refuse it.

“Many who hear the message -by far the greatest number -will not credit the solemn warning. Many will be found disloyal to the commandments of God, which are a test of character.

The Lord’s servants will be caned enthusiasts. Ministers will warn the people not to listen to them. Noah received the same treatment while the Spirit of God was urging him to give the message, whether men would hear or whether they would forbear.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 233:O.

3 - Ministers will denounce it.

“The popular ministry, like the Pharisees of old, filled with anger as their authority is questioned, will denounce the message as of Satan, and stir up the sin-loving multitudes to revile and persecute those who proclaim it.” -Great Controversy, 607:O.

GIVING OF LOUD CRY

1 - It will be given by humble men of faith and prayer.

“As the time comes for It to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble Instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them.”-Great Controversy, 606:2.

2 - Uneducated men and even children will proclaim this final message.

“Many. . will be seen hurrying hither and thither, constrained by the Spirit of God to bring the light to others. The truth, the Word of God, is as a fire in their bones, filling them with a burning desire to enlighten those who sit in darkness. Many, even among the uneducated, now proclaim the words of the Lord. Children are impelled by the Spirit to go forth and declare the message from heaven. The Spirit is poured out upon all who will yield to its promptings, and, casting off all man’s machinery, his binding rules and cautious methods, they will declare the truth with the might of the Spirit’s power. Multitudes will receive the faith and join the armies of the Lord.”-Evangelism, 700:1.

3 - Few great men will have a part in giving this final call.

“In the last solemn work, few great men will be engaged. They are self-sufficient, independent of God, and He cannot use them.” -5 Testimonies, 80:1.

4 - It will not be churches or other organizations which will be in charge of this final work; but only the God of heaven.

“Unless those who can help in ___ are aroused to a sense of their duty, they will not recognize the work of God when the loud cry of the third angel shall be heard. When light goes forth to lighten the earth, instead of coming up to the help of the Lord, they will want to bind about His work to meet their narrow ideas. Let me tell you that the Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning. There will be those among us who will always want to control the work of God, to dictate even what movements shall be made when the work

goes forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third angel in the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins In His own hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 300:O.

5 - Every earthly support will be cut off (including that of employing organizations).

“In the last great conflict of the controversy with Satan those who are loyal to God will see every earthly support cut off. Because they refuse to break His law in obedience to earthly powers, they will be forbidden to buy or sell.” -Desire of Ages, 121:3-122:O.

6 - They will be free from every entanglement.

“They will turn from every idol that binds them to earth, and will ‘worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.’ They will free themselves from every entanglement and will stand before the world as monuments of God’s mercy.” -Prophets and Kings, 300:O.

7 - Financial means will no longer be needed.

“I was shown that as the work is closing up, and the truth Is going forth in mighty power, these rich men will bring their means and lay it at the feet of the servants of God, begging them to accept it. The answer from the servants of God will be: ‘Go to now, ye rich men. Your means is not needed. Ye withheld it when ye could do good with it in advancing the cause of God. The needy have suffered; they have not been blessed by your means. God will not accept your riches now.”-1 Testimonies, 175:1.

GOD WILL USE UNUSUAL AGENCIES

1 - The work will be done out of the common order.

“Let me tell you that the Lord will work in this last work In a manner very much out of the common order of things, and In a way that will be contrary to any human planning. There will be those among us who will always want to control the work of God, to dictate even what movements shall be made when the work goes forward under the direction of the angel who joins the third angel in the message to be given to the world. God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the reins in His own hands. The workers will be surprised by the simple means that He will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 300:O.

2 - There will be no predetermined plans.

“Do not imagine that it will be possible to lay out plans for the future. Let God be acknowledged as standing at the helm at all times and under every circumstance. He will work by means that will be suitable, and will maintain, increase, and build up His own people.” -Counsels to Writers and Editors, 71:O.

3 - Unexpected times and ways will be used.

“The Comforter is to reveal Himself, not In any specified, precise way that man may mark out, but in the order of God-In unexpected times and ways that will honor His own name.”-Last Day Events, 204:1.

4 - Printed literature will be important.

“More than one thousand will soon be converted in one day, most of whom will trace their first convictions to the reading of our publications.” -Evangelism, 693:3.

“The results of the circulation of this book [The Great Controversy] are not to be judged by what now appears. By reading it some souls will be aroused and will have courage to unite themselves at once with those who keep the commandments of God. But a much larger number who read it will not take their position until they see the very events taking place that are foretold in It. The fulfillment of some of the predictions will inspire faith that others also will come to pass, and when the earth is lightened with the glory of the Lord In the closing work, many souls will take their position on the commandments of God as the result of this agency.”-Colporteur Ministry, 128:4-129:O.

5 - The publishing, sale, and distribution of truth-filled literature will continue on down to the close of probation.

“Let us have faith in God. In His name let us carry forward His work without flinching. The work He has called us to do He will make a blessing to us..

“As long as probation continues, there will be opportunity for the canvasser to work. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress God’s people, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing.

“ ..Until in heaven is spoken the word, ‘It is finished,’ there will always be places for labor, and hearts to receive the message.” -6 Testimonies, 478.

“In a large degree through our publishing houses is to be accomplished the work of that other angel who comes down from heaven with great power and who lightens the earth with his glory [Revelation 18:1].”-7 Testimonies, 140:3.

6 - Few great men will give the message.

“In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged. . God will work a work in our day that but few anticipate. He will raise up and exalt among us those who are taught rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the outward training of scientific institutions. These facilities are not to be despised or condemned; they are ordained of God, but they can furnish only the exterior qualifications. God will manifest that He is not dependent on learned, self-important mortals.”-5 Testimonies, 80:1, 82:4.

“The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them.” -Great Controversy, 606:2.

7 - God will use the most usable: the common people.

“He will raise up from among the common people men and women to do His work, even as of old He called fisherman to be His disciples. There will soon be an awakening that will surprise many. Those who do not realize the necessity of what is to be done will be passed by, and the heavenly messengers will work with those who are called the common people, fitting them to carry the truth to many places.”-Last Day Events, 204:2.

8 - God will use those He can use best.

“To souls that are earnestly seeking for light and that accept with gladness every ray of divine illumination from His holy Word, to such alone light will be given. It Is through these souls that God will reveal that light and power which will lighten the whole earth with His glory.”-5 Testimonies, 729:2.

“It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought that is needed. This is of more value than brilliant talent, tact, or knowledge. An ordinary mind, trained to obey a ‘Thus said the Lord, , is better qualified for God’s work than are those who have capabilities but do not employ them rightly.”-Last Day Events, 205:2.

9 - Even the illiterate will be used.

“Those who receive Christ as a personal Savior will stand the test and trial of these last days. Strengthened by unquestioning faith in Christ, even the illiterate disciple will be able to withstand the doubts and questions that infidelity can produce, and put to blush the sophistries of scorners.

“The Lord Jesus will give the disciples a tongue and wisdom that their adversaries can neither gainsay nor resist. Those who could not, by reasoning, overcome satanic delusions will bear an affirmative testimony that will baffle supposedly learned men. Words will come from the lips of the unlearned with such convincing power and wisdom that conversions will be made to the truth. Thousands will be converted under their testimony.

“Why should the illiterate man have this power, which the learned man has not? The illiterate one, through faith in Christ, has come into the atmosphere of pure, clear truth, while the learned man has turned away from the truth. The poor man is Christ’s witnesses. He cannot appeal to histories or to so-called high science, but he gathers from the Word of God powerful evidence. The truth that he speaks under the inspiration of the Spirit is so pure and remarkable and carries with it a power so indisputable that his testimony cannot be gainsaid.”- 8 Manuscript Releases, 187:1188:O.

10 - Children will preach.

“Many, even among the uneducated, now proclaim the words of the Lord. Children are impelled by the Spirit to go forth and declare the message from heaven. The Spirit is poured out upon all who will yield to Its promptings and, casting off all man’s machinery, his binding rules and cautious methods, they will declare the truth with the might of the Spirit’s power.” Evangelism, 700:1.

“When the heavenly intelligences see that men will no longer present the truth in simplicity as did Jesus, the very children will be moved upon by the Spirit of God and will go forth proclaiming the truth for this time.” -Last Day Events, 206:3207:O.

11 - Angels will speak to men.

“There are many men in our world who are like Cornelius. . As God worked for Cornelius, so He works for these true standard-bearers. . They will obtain a knowledge of God as Cornelius did through the visitation of angels from heaven,”-Last Day Events, 207:2,

“When divine power is combined with human effort, the work will spread like fire in the stubble. God will employ agencies whose origin man will be unable to discern. Angels will do a work which men might have had the blessing of accomplishing had they not neglected to answer the claims of God-.” 1 Selected Messages, 118:3.

“The angels of heaven are moving upon human minds to arouse investigation in the themes of the Bible. A far greater work will be done than has yet been done and none of the glory of it will flow to men, for angels that minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation are working night and day.” -Counsels to Writers and Editors, 140:2.

MANY OPPOSE GOD’S CHOSEN METHODS

1 - God’s methods will be resisted as something dangerous.

“There is to be in the [Seventh-day Adventist) churches a wonderful manifestation of the power of God, but it will not move upon those who have not humbled themselves before the Lord, and opened the door of the heart by confession and repentance. In the manifestation of that power which lightens the earth with the glory of God, they will see only something which in their blindness they think dangerous, something which will arouse their fears, and they will brace themselves to resist it. Because the Lord does not work according to their ideas and expectations they will oppose the work. ‘Why,’ they say, ‘should we not know the Spirit of God, when we have been in the work so many years?” -Last Day Events, 209:3-210:O.

THE LOUD CRY OF THE THIRD ANGEL

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

In the Day When Every Case Is Decided, the Tables of Stone Will Be Placed So All the World Will See and Understand.- “With His own finger God wrote His commandments on two tables of stone. These tables were not left in the keeping of men, but were placed in the ark; and in the great day, when every case is decided, these tables, inscribed with the commandments, will be placed so that all the world will see and understand. The witness against them will be unanswerable.” - Letter 30, 1900, pp. 5-6. (To “Brother and Sister Hickox,“ February 25, 1900) [See also: TBC 167.]

Laymen From Various Vocations Will Learn in Connection With Men of Experience. - “In all fields nigh and afar off, men will be called from the plow and from the more common commercial business vocations that largely occupy the mind, and will become educated in connection with men who have had experience - men who understand the truth. Through most wonderful workings of God, mountains of difficulty will be removed and cast into the sea..

A Series of Events Will Reveal That God Is Master of the Situation. - “There is to be, at this period, a series of events which will reveal that God is the master of the situation. The truth will be proclaimed in clear unmistakable language. Those who preach the truth will strive to demonstrate the truth by a well-ordered life and godly conversation. And, as they do this, they will become powerful in advocating the truth, and in giving it the sure application that God has given it ..

The Workings of Providence Will Be Recognized in the Judgments and Blessings That Come. – “Marked events of Providence will be seen and recognized, in judgments and blessings. The truth will bear away the victory. We have a battle of tribulation before us, but our commission is: ‘Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ (Matthew 28:19-20).”Letter 230, 1906, pp. 2, 3, 7. (“To the Elders of the Battle Creek Church, and to Ministers and Physicians, “ July 5, 1906). [See also: PC 79-6; TDG 195.)

The Triumph of Truth.- “That message that means so much to the dwellers upon the earth, will be seen and understood. Men will know what is truth. Onward, and still onward, is the work to advance. The most marked events of Providence will be seen and recognized, and it will be seen that the truth bears away the victory.” Manuscript 41, 1906, pp. 1-8. (“Universal Guilt during the Time of the End, “n.d., a portion pub-lished in the Review and Herald, October 11, 1906). [See also: 9T 95-6.)

Imprisonment During the Loud Cry. ”Those who desire to be refreshed in mind and instructed in the truth should study the history of the early church during and immediately following the day of Pentecost. They need to study carefully the experience of Paul and the other apostles, for God’s people in these last days must pass through similar experiences. As the world becomes more imbued with the spirit of the enemy, there will be more vehement opposition of the Word. Some will be imprisoned because they refuse to desecrate the Sabbath of the Lord. Those who would hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end must bear a living testimony to the world. Their words are to have a convincing power upon minds, and many through them will be turned to the Lord.”-Letter 190, 1907, p. 2. (To “Dear Brethren, “ May 6, 1907). (See also: RC 204.)

THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE

The Third Angel’s Message Is a Life and Death Question, and Must Not Be Toned Down. - “We know that now everything is at stake. The third angel’s message is to be at this time regarded as of the highest importance. It is a life and death question. The eighteenth chapter of Revelation reveals the importance of presenting the truth in no measured terms, but with boldness and power. There must be no toning down of the truth, no muffling of the message for this time. Satan has devised a state of things whereby the proclamation of the third angel’s message shall be bound about. We must beware of his plans and methods. The third angel’s message is to be strengthened and confirmed.” -Letter 28, 1900, pp. 2-8. (To “Brother and Sister [W. W.] Prescott,” February 17, 1900). [See also: Maranatha 191.)

The Little Time Of Trouble

The great time of trouble, culminating in Jacob’s trouble comes after the general close of probation. But the little time of trouble occurs prior to that general close, and simultaneously with the giving of the loud cry by the faithful; see Early Writings 85-86, 33.

In summary, the little time of trouble will bring trouble in several ways:

In spite of the many disasters, crises, and no-buy-sell restrictions, God will overrule so that His people will be able to continue spreading the loud cry message.

We are told that the faithful who live in the country will undergo less privation during that time, than those who have chosen to be slow in moving out of the cities.

At the time that the Sunday law was enacted, the world was told that enactment of the national Sunday law would bring a millennium of peace. But, as God’s Spirit is poured out upon His faithful ones, it is withdrawn from the world-and strife and natural disasters caused by Satan are the result. Conditions get worse, not better! Satan’s objective is not merely to require Sunday worship, but also to destroy those who refuse that worship. The ongoing strife and disasters enrage the wicked against faithful Sabbath keepers. During the great time of trouble (after the general close of probation), these calamities greatly increase.

In a later study in this series, we will discuss the great time of trouble.

WHEN LOUD CRY BEGINS

1 - Sequence: (1) (Little) time of trouble be gins; (2) latter rain; (3) loud cry begins.

“At the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully.”-Early Writings, 33:2.

LITTLE TIME OF TROUBLE

1 - Sequence: (Little) time of trouble comes before the end of loud cry and Christ’s mediation, and it comes before the close of probation and the plagues.

“ ‘The commencement of that time of trouble,’ here mentioned [on page 33], does not refer to the time when the plagues shall begin to be poured out, but to a short period Just before they are poured out, while Christ is in the sanctuary. At that time, while the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel.” - Early Writings, 85:3-86:O.

PEACE AND SAFETY HAS BEEN THE ASSURANCE

1 - It will be imagined that the national Sunday law will bring worldwide conversion and the beginning of a millennium of peace.

“Papists, Protestants, and worldlings will alike accept the form of godliness without the power, and they will see In this union a grand movement for the conversion of the world and the ushering In of the long-expected millennium.” -Great Controversy, 588:3-589:O.

2 - Long ages of peace and prosperity are predicted.

“ ‘The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.’ 2 Peter 3:10. When the reasoning of philosophy has banished the fear of God’s judgments; when religious teachers are pointing forward to long ages of peace and prosperity, and the world are absorbed in their rounds of business and pleasure, planting and building, feasting and merrymaking, rejecting God’s warnings and mocking His messengers -then it is that sudden destruction cometh upon them, and they shall not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:3.”-Patriarchs and Prophets, 104:O.

3 - The people are dreaming of temporal prosperity.

“Like the dwellers in the vale of Siddim, the people are dreaming of prosperity and peace. ‘Escape for thy life,’ is the warning from the angels of God; but other voices are heard saying, ‘Be not excited; there is no cause for alarm.’ The multitudes cry, ‘Peace and safety,’ while Heaven declares that swift destruction is about to come upon the transgressor. On the night prior to their destruction, the cities of the plain rioted in pleasure and derided the fears and warnings of the messenger of God; but those scoffers perished in the flames; that very night the door of mercy was forever closed to the wicked, careless inhabitants of Sodom. God will not always be mocked; He will not long be trifled with. ‘Behold, the day of the Lord cometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the land desolate: and He shall destroy the sinners thereof out of it.’ Isaiah 13:9. The great mass of the world will reject God’s mercy, and will be overwhelmed in swift and ir-retrievable ruin. But those who heed the warning shall dwell ‘in the secret place of the Most High,’

and’ abide under the shadow of the Almighty.’ His truth shall be their shield and buckler.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 167:2.

STRIFE AND WARFARE CONTINUES

1 - Calamities are permitted to awaken men to their need.

“Calamities will come-calamities most awful, most unexpected; and these destructions will follow one after another. If there will be a heeding of the warnings that God has given, and if churches will repent, returning to their allegiance, then other cities may be spared for a time. But if men who have been deceived continue in the same way in which they have been walking, disregarding the law of God and presenting falsehoods before the people, God allows them to suffer calamity, that their senses may be awakened.” -Evangelism, 27:3.

2 - When the trouble begins, it will continue till the Second Advent.

“Soon grievous troubles will arise among the nations -trouble that will not cease until Jesus comes. As never before we need to press together, serving Him who has prepared His throne in the heavens and whose kingdom rules over all. God has not forsaken His people, and our strength lies in not forsaking Him.

“The judgments of God are in the land. The wars and rumors of wars, the destruction by fire and flood, say clearly that the time of trouble, which is to Increase until the end, is very near at hand. We have no time to lose. The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecies of the eleventh of Daniel have almost reached their final fulfillment.” - Welfare Ministry, 136:4-5.

3 - Natural disasters will occur.

“In the last scenes of this earth’s history, war will rage. There will be pestilence, plague, and famine. The waters of the deep will overflow their boundaries. Property and life will be destroyed by fire and flood. We should be preparing for the mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for them that love Him. There is a rest from earth’s conflict.” -Maranatha, 174:5.

4 - There will be strife and warfare in and among nations.

“Soon strife among the nations will break out with an intensity that we do not now anticipate. The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living. Rulers and statesmen, men who occupy positions of trust and authority, thinking men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed upon the events taking place around us. They are watching the strained, restless relations that exist among the nations. They observe the intensity that is taking possession of every earthly element, and they realize that something great and decisive is about to take place, that the world is on the verge of a stupendous crisis.

“A moment of respite has been graciously given us of God. Every power lent us of Heaven is now to be used in working for those perishing in ignorance. There must be no delay. The truth must be proclaimed in the dark places of the earth. . A great work is to be done, and to those who know the truth for this time, this work has been entrusted.” -Maranatha, 174:3-4.

5 - [In the little time of trouble] this trouble will begin during the loud cry, but will intensify after the loud cry is ended [during the great time of trouble].

“While the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel. At that time the ‘latter rain,’ or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.” -Early Writings, 85:9-86:O.

6 - A little time of peace will occur, and then strife will resume to a far greater degree than before.

“I was shown the Inhabitants of the earth in the utmost confusion. War, bloodshed, privation, want, famine, and pestilence were abroad in the land. As these things surrounded God’s people, they began to press together, and to cast aside their little difficulties. Self-dignity no longer controlled them; deep humility took its place. Suffering, perplexity, and privation caused reason to resume its throne, and the passionate and unreasonable man became sane, and acted with discretion and wisdom.

“My attention was then called from the scene. There seemed to be a little time of peace. Once more the inhabitants of the earth were presented before me; and again everything was in the utmost confusion. Strife, war, and bloodshed, with famine and pestilence, raged everywhere. Other nations were engaged in this war and confusion. War caused famine. Want and bloodshed caused pestilence. And then men’s hearts failed them for fear, ‘and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth.’ “-1 Testimonies, 268:1-2.

7 - When the third angel’s message ends and probation closes, the check is removed from the nations -and the storm will burst upon them all the more fiercely.

“Angels are now restraining the winds of strife, until the world shall be warned of its coming doom; but a storm is gathering, ready to burst upon the earth, and when God shall bid His angels loose the winds, there will be such a scene of strife as no pen can picture.

“A moment of respite has been graciously given us of God. Every power lent us of heaven is to be used in doing the work assigned us by the Lord for those who are perishing in ignorance.” -Evangelism, 704:1-2.

8 - Civil, international, and natural crises are increasing, and will soon intensively climax.

“The signs of the times give evidence that the judgments of heaven are being poured out, that the day of the Lord is at hand. The daily papers are full of indications of an intense conflict in the future. Bold robberies are of frequent occurrence. Strikes are common. Thefts and murders are committed on every hand. Men possessed by demons are taking the lives of men, women, and little children. All these things testify that the Lord’s coming is near.

“The restraining Spirit of God is even now being withdrawn from the world. Hurricanes, storms, tempests, disasters by sea and by land, follow one another in quick succession. The signs thickening around us, telling of the near approach of the Son of God, are attributed to any other than the true cause..

“The time is right upon us when there will be sorrow in the world that no human balm can heal. Even before the last great destruction comes upon the world, the flattering monuments of man’s greatness will be crumbled in the dust. God’s retributive judgments will fall on those who In the face of great light have continued in sin. Costly buildings, supposed to be fireproof, are erected. But as Sodom perished in the flames of God’s vengeance, so will these proud structures become ashes. I have seen vessels which cost immense sums of money wrestling with the mighty ocean, seeking to breast the angry billows. But with all their treasures of gold and silver, and with all their human freight, they sank into a watery grave..

But amid the tumult of excitement, with confusion in every place, there is a work to be done for God in the world.” Maranatha, 175:2-4.

SATAN WILL BRING GREAT DISASTERS

1 - Satan has remarkable power over the elements of nature.

“Satan works through the elements also to garner his harvest of unprepared souls. He has studied the secrets of the laboratories of nature, and he uses all his power to control the elements as far as God allows. . While appearing to the children of men as a great physician who can heal all their maladies, he will bring disease and disaster, until populous cities are reduced to ruin and desolation. Even now he is at work. In accidents and calamities by sea and by land, in great conflagrations, in fierce tornadoes and terrific hailstorms, in tempests, floods, cyclones, tidal waves, and earthquakes, in every place and in a thousand forms, Satan is

exercising his power. He sweeps away the ripening harvest, and famine and distress follow. He imparts to the air a deadly taint, and thousands perish by the pestilence. These visitations are to become more and more frequent and disastrous. Destruction will be upon both man and beast.” -Great Controversy, 589:2-590:O.

THE FAITHFUL WILL BE BLAMED

1 - The judgments increase as the wickedness of men increases.

“The judgments will be according to the wickedness of the people and the light of truth that they have had. If they have had the truth, according to that light will be the punishment.” Maranatha, 176:3.

2 - Those keeping God’s commandments will be blamed for the world’s problems.

“As men depart further and further from God, Satan is permitted to have power over the children of disobedience. He hurls destruction among men. There is calamity by land and sea.

Property and life are destroyed by fire and flood, Satan resolves to charge this upon those who refuse to bow to the Idol which he has set up. His agents point to Seventh-day Adventists as the cause of the trouble. ‘These people stand out in defiance of law,’ they say, ‘They desecrate Sunday. Were they compelled to obey the law for Sunday observance, there would be a cessation of these terrible judgments,’ “-Maranatha, 176:1.

3 - Sunday-violators will be declared to be the cause of all the troubles.

“Satan puts his interpretation upon events, and they [leading men] think, as he would have them, that the calamites which fill the land are a result of Sunday-breaking. Thinking to appease the wrath of God, these influential men make laws enforcing Sunday observance. They think that by exalting this false rest-day higher, and still higher, compelling obedience to the Sunday law, the spurious Sabbath, they are doing God service. Those who honor God by observing the true Sabbath are looked upon as disloyal to God, when it is really those who thus regard them who are themselves disloyal, because they are trampling under foot the Sabbath originated in Eden, “-Maranatha, 176:4.

THE WORLD WILL BE AGAINST GOD’S PEOPLE

1 - The Christian denominations will do that (the setting up of the image) which will focus attention on commandment keepers.

“Our people have been regarded as too insignificant to be worthy of notice, but a change will come. The Christian world is now making movements which will necessarily bring commandment-keeping people into prominence.” -5 Testimonies, 546:2.

2 – Sabbath keepers will be hated, for Satan is purposing their destruction.

“The whole world is to be stirred with enmity against Seventh-day Adventists, because they will not yield homage to the papacy, by honoring Sunday, the institution of this antichristian power. It is the purpose of Satan to cause them to be blotted from the earth, in order that his supremacy of the world may not be disputed.” Testimonies to Ministers, 37:O.

3 - The attention of the world will be riveted on the beliefs of the faithful.

Movements are at work to bring us to the front, and if our theories of truth can be picked to pieces by historians or the world’s greatest men, it will be done.

“We must individually know for ourselves what is truth, and be prepared to give a reason of the hope that we have with meekness and fear, not in a proud boasting, self-sufficiency, but with the spirit of Christ. We are nearing the time when we shall stand Individually alone to answer for our belief.” -Evangelism, 69:1-2.

4 - Then as now, the strength of the faithful will be in Christ and an obedient knowledge of His Word.

“The powers of darkness will open their batteries upon us; and all who are indifferent and careless, who have set their affections on their earthly treasure, and who have not cared to understand God’s dealings with His people, will be ready victims. No power but a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, will ever make us steadfast; but with this, one may chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight.” Maranatha, 217:6.

THE FAITHFUL WILL STAND

1 - We must study and prepare for what is coming!

“You know not where you may be called upon to give your witness of truth. Many will have to stand in the legislative courts; some will have to stand before kings and before the learned of the earth, to answer for their faith. Those who have only a superficial understanding of truth will not be able clearly to expound the Scriptures, and give definite reasons for their faith.

They will become confused, and will not be workmen that need not to be ashamed. Let no one imagine that he has no need to study, because he is not to preach in the sacred desk. You know not what God may require of you.” -Fundamentals of Christian Education, 217:1.

2 - The faithful will be brought before the rulers of the earth.

“The time is not far off when the people of God will be called upon to give their testimony before the rulers of the earth. Not one in twenty has a realization of what rapid strides we are making toward the great crisis in our history. . There is no time for vanity, for trifling, for engaging the mind in unimportant matters.” -Maranatha, 258:1.

3 - They will appear before kings and great men.

“Kings, governors, and great men will hear of you through the reports of those who are at enmity with you, and your faith and character will be misrepresented before them. But those who are falsely accused will have an opportunity to appear in the presence of their accusers to answer for themselves. They will have the privilege of bringing the light before those who are called the great men of the earth, and if you have studied the Bible, if you are ready to give an answer to every man that asks you of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear, your enemies will not be able to gainsay your wisdom.

“You now have an opportunity to attain to the greatest intellectual power through the study of the Word of God. But if you are indolent, and fail to dig deep in the mines of truth, you will not be ready for the crisis that is soon to come upon us. a that you would realize that each moment is golden. If you live by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God, you will not be found unprepared.” -Maranatha, 258.’2-3.

4 - They will witness to their faith before councils and thousands.

“The time will come when we shall be brought before councils and before thousands for His name’s sake, and each one will have to give the reason of his faith.” -Maranatha, 252:2.

5 - They will stand before leading authorities.

“Every position of truth taken by our people will bear the criticism of the greatest minds; the highest of the world’s great men will be brought in contact with truth, and therefore every position we take should be critically examined and tested by the Scriptures. Now we seem to be unnoticed, but this will not always be. Movements are at work to bring us to the front, and if our theories of truth can be picked to pieces by historians or the world’s greatest men, it will be done.” Evangelism, 69:1.

6 - The presentation of pure truth is powerful.

“The Lord Jesus will give the disciples a tongue and wisdom that their adversaries can neither gainsay nor resist. Those who could not by reasoning overcome satanic delusions will bear an affirmative testimony that will baffle supposedly learned men. Words will come from the lips of the unlearned with such convincing power and wisdom that conversions will be made to the truth. Thousands will be converted under their testimony.

“Why should the illiterate man have this power, which the learned man has not? The illiterate one, through faith in Christ, has come into the atmosphere of pure, clear truth, while the learned man has turned away from the truth. The poor man is Christ’s witness. He cannot appeal to histories or to so-called high science, but he gathers from the Word of God powerful evidence. The truth that he speaks under the inspiration of the Spirit, is so pure and remarkable and carries with It a power so Indisputable, that his testimony cannot be gainsaid.”- Maranatha, 252:4-5.

7 - Perplexities will come to us, but God will be our Helper.

“In the great closing work we shall meet with perplexities that we know not how to deal with, but let us not forget that the three great powers of heaven are working, that a divine hand is on the wheel, and that God will bring His purposes to pass.” -Evangelism, 65:2.

GOD’S PEOPLE WILL BE PERSECUTED

1 - Prior to the end of the loud cry (and the close of probation), persecution of the faithful will be limited.

“Persecution in its varied forms is the development of a principle which will exist as long as Satan exists and Christianity has vital power..

“But so long as Jesus remains man’s Intercessor In the sanctuary above, the restraining Influence of the Holy Spirit is felt by rulers and people, it still controls to some extent the laws of the land. Were it not for these laws, the condition of the world would be much worse than it now is. While many of our rulers are active agents of Satan, God also has His agents among the leading men of the nation. The enemy moves upon his servants to propose measures that would greatly impede the work of God; but statesmen who fear the Lord are influenced by holy angels to oppose such propositions with unanswerable arguments. Thus a few men will hold in check a powerful current of evil. The opposition of the enemies of truth will be re-strained that the third angel’s message may do its work. When the final warning shall be given, it will arrest the attention of these leading men through whom the Lord is now working, and some of them will accept it, and will stand with the people of God through the time of trouble.” -Great Controversy, 610:2611:O.

2 - The setting up of the image (in the enactment of the national Sunday law) will bring civil penalties.

“When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall influence the state to enforce their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then Protestant America will have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the Infliction of civil penalties upon dissenters will Inevitable result, “-Great Controversy, 445:1.

3 - Be prepared to be arrested and brought before councils.

“As Christ was hated without cause, so will His people be hated because they are obedient to the commandments of God. If He who was pure, holy, and undefiled, who did good and only good in our world, was treated as a base criminal and condemned to death, His disciples must expect but similar treatment, however faultless may be their life and blameless their character.

“Human enactments, laws manufactured by satanic agencies under a plea of goodness and restriction of evil, will be exalted, while God’s holy commandments are despised and trampled underfoot. And all who prove their loyalty by obedience to the law of Jehovah must be prepared to be arrested, to be brought before councils that have not for their standard the high and holy law of God.”-7 Bible Commentary, 977/1:4/2:O.

4 - Courts and judges will be corrupt.

“Those who live during the last days of this earth’s history will know what it means to be persecuted for the truth’s sake. In the courts injustice will prevail. The judges will refuse to listen to the reasons of those who are loyal to the commandments of God, because they know that arguments in favor of the fourth commandment are unanswerable. They will say, ‘We have a law, and by our law he ought to die.’ God’s law is nothing to them. ‘Our law’ with them is supreme. Those who respect this human law will be favored, but those who will not bow to the Idol Sabbath will have no favors shown them.” -Maranatha, 195:3.

5 - God will work on behalf of His people.

“The commandment-keeping people of God erelong will be placed in a most trying position; but all those who have walked in the light, and diffused the light, will realize that God interposes in their behalf. When everything looks most forbidding, then the Lord will reveal His power to His faithful ones. When the nation for which God has worked in such a marvellous manner, and over which He has spread the shield of Omnipotence, abandons Protestant principles, and through its legislature gives countenance and support to Romanism in limiting religious Liberty, then God will work in His own power for His people that are true. The tyranny of Rome will be exercised, but Christ is our refuge.” Maranatha, 194:3.

6 - They will face personal dangers, distress, and persecution.

“The Scriptures teach that popery is to regain its lost supremacy, and that the fires of persecution will be rekindled through the time-serving concessions of the so-called Protestant world. In this time of peril we can stand only as we have the truth and the power of God..

“The prospect of being brought into personal danger and distress, need not cause despondency, but should quicken the vigor and hopes of God’s people; for the time of their peril is the season for God to grant them clearer manifestations of His power.” -2 Selected Messages, 367:4368:O, 370:2.

“Before the warfare shall be ended and the victory won, we as a people are to experience trials similar to those of Paul. We shall encounter the same hardness of heart, the same cruel determination, the same unyielding hatred. . Persecution will again be kindled against those who are true to God; their motives will be impugned, their best efforts misinterpreted, their names cast out as evil. . God would have His people prepared for the soon-coming crisis. Prepared or unprepared, we must meet it.”-Sketches from the Life of Paul, 251:O-252:1.

“There will come a time when, because of our advocacy of Bible truth, we shall be treated as traitors.” -6 Testimonies, 394:2.

“Conscientious obedience to the word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the commandment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disinherited and driven from home.”-Great Controversy, 608:1.

7 - They will be brought before courts and imprisoned.

“And all who prove their loyalty by obedience to the law of Jehovah must be prepared to be arrested, to be brought before councils that have not for their standard the high and holy law of God.” -7 Bible Commentary 977/2:O.

“The tender mercies of this power will be displayed in prison cells and dungeons. Already preparations are advancing, and movements are in progress, which will result in making an image to the beast.”-Review, April 23, 1889.

“As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-Sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom, all this now seems impossible; but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men, and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments. The heart can be very cruel when God’s fear and love are removed.”-Great Controversy, 608:1.

ROME INTENDS TO RENEW ITS PERSECUTIONS

1 - The church, state, Protestants, Romanists, and devils are already at work.

“Church and state are now making preparations for the future conflict. Protestants are working in disguise to bring Sunday to the front, as did the Romanists. Throughout the land the papacy is piling up her lofty and massive structures, in the secret recesses of which her former persecutions are to be repeated. And the way is preparing for the manifestation, on a grand scale, of those lying wonders by which, if it were possible, Satan would deceive even the elect.”-5 Testimonies, 449:3-450:O.

2 - When Rome is reinstated in power, there will be a return to persecution.

“The papal church will never relinquish her claim to infallibility. All that she has done in her persecution of those who reject her dogmas she holds to be right; and would she not repeat the same acts, should the opportunity be presented? Let the restraints now Imposed by secular governments be removed and Rome be reinstated In her former power, and there would speedily be a revival of her tyranny and persecution.” - Great Controversy, 564:2.

3 - The goal will be to regain control and re-establish persecution.

“The Roman Church is far-reaching in her plans and modes of operation. She is employing every device to extend her influence and increase her power in preparation for a fierce and determined conflict to regain control of the world, to re-establish persecution, and to undo all that Protestantism has done.”-Great Controversy, 565:4-566:O.

4 - A cruel and despotic power.

“She [Rome] possess the same pride and arrogant assumption that lorded it over kings and princes and claimed the prerogatives of God. Her spirit is no less cruel and despotic now than when she crushed out human liberty and slew the saints of the Most High,”-Great Controversy, 571:1.

5 - The enmity of Rome toward Sabbath keepers.

“These records of the past clearly reveal the enmity of Rome toward the true Sabbath and Its defenders, and the means which she employs to honor the institution of her creating, The word of God teaches that these scenes are to be repeated as Roman Catholics and Protestants shall unite for the exaltation of the Sunday.” -Great Controversy, 578:2.

6 - Rome’s power will be restored.

“The influence of Rome in the countries that once acknowledged her dominion is still far from being destroyed. And prophecy foretells a restoration of her power.” -Great Controversy, 579:O.

7 - The triumph of Rome is assured.

“Let the principle once be established in the United States that the church may employ or control the power of the state; that religious observances may be enforced by secular laws; in short, that the authority of church and state is to dominate the conscience, and the triumph of Rome in this country is assured.

“God’s word has given warning of the impending danger; let this be unheeded, and the Protestant world will learn what the purposes of Rome really are, only when It Is too late to escape the snare. She is silently growing into power. Her doctrines are exerting their influence in legislative halls, in the churches, and in the hearts of men. She is piling up her lofty and massive structures in the secret recesses of which her former persecutions will be repeated, Stealthily and unsuspectedly she is strengthening her forces to further her own ends when the time shall come for her to strike. All that she desires is vantage ground, and this is already being given her, We shall soon see and shall feel what the purpose of the Roman element Is. Whoever shall believe and obey the word of God will thereby incur reproach and persecution.” -Great Controversy, 581:1-2.

PROTESTANTS WILL PERSECUTE THE FAITHFUL

Catholicism will be concerned with (1) urging apostate Protestantism to coerce the government to enact a repressive Sunday Law and ancillary legislation, and (2) physically persecute the faithful.

Protestant leaders will focus on getting the Sunday law passed and heavily enforced by governmental powers.

1 - Read the past if you would understand the future.

“If the reader would understand the agencies to be employed in the soon-coming contest, he has but to trace the record of the means which Rome employed for the same object in ages past. If he would know how papists and Protestants united will deal with those who reject their dogmas, let him see the spirit which Rome manifested toward the Sabbath and Its defenders.” -Great Controversy, 573:2-574:O.

2 - Papists and Protestants will unite in these coercive actions.

“The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and, in this work, papists and Protestants unite.” - Great Controversy, 607:1.

3 - The spirit of Antichrist is also in the Protestant churches.

“ ‘There is no reason to consider the antichristian spirit and practices to be confined to that which is now called the Church of Rome. The Protestant churches have much of antichrist in them, and are far from being wholly reformed from. . corruptions and wickedness.’ “-Great Controversy, 984:2.

4 - Satan says: “We are now bringing the Protestant churches to Rome.”

“ ‘(In past ages] we (Satan and his hosts] led the Romish church to inflict imprisonment, torture, and death upon those who refused to yield to her decrees; and now that we are bringing the Protestant churches and the world Into harmony with this right arm of our strength, we will finally have a law to exterminate all who will not submit to our authority,’ “-Testimonies to Ministers, 479:1 {the complete statement by Satan is also quoted in the 1884 edition of Great Contro-versy (pp. 997-940)}.

5 - Former believers will do their part.

“Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren.

When Sabbath keepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them.” Great Controversy, 608:2.

THE FAITHFUL WILL BE THREATENED WITH DEATH

1 - As in earlier centuries, Satan is still seeking to destroy God’s people.

“The decree which is to go forth against the people of God will be very similar to that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews in the time of Esther . . Satan instigated the scheme In order to rid the earth of those who preserved the knowledge of the true God. But his plots were defeated by a counter power that reigns among the children of men. . The Protestant world today see in the little company keeping the Sabbath a Mordecai in the gate. His character and conduct, expressing reverence for the law of God, are a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling upon His Sabbath; the unwelcome Intruder must by some means be put out of the way.

“The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past is still seeking to rid the earth of those who fear God and obey His law. Satan will excite indignation against the humble minority who conscientiously refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals they will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a ‘Thus said the Scriptures’ to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law. Those who fear God cannot accept an institution that violates a precept of the Decalogue. On this battlefield comes the last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error. And we are not left in doubt as to the issue. Now, as in the days of Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people,”- 5 Testimonies, 450:1-451:O.

2 - The decree brings the threat of death.

“The time of trouble is about to come upon the people of God. Then it is that the decree will go forth forbidding those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord to buy or sell, and threatening them with punishment, and even death, if they do not observe, the first day of the week as the Sabbath,”-Maranatha, 198:1.

3 - It will bring threatened imprisonment and death.

THERE WILL BE MARTYRS

1 - The blood of martyrs cries to God.

“As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God’s forbearance is reached, that the measure of our nation’s iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy is about to take her flight, never to return. The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress which prophets have described as the time of Jacob’s trouble, The cries of the faithful, persecuted ones ascend to heaven, And as the blood of Abel cried from the ground, there are voices also crying to God from martyrs’ graves, from the sepulchres of the sea, from mountain caverns, from convent vaults: ‘How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost Thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth.’ “-5 Testimonies, 451:2.

2 - Linking the fifth seal and Revelation 18.

“When the fifth seal was opened, John the Revelator in vision saw beneath the altar the company that were slain for the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. After this came the scenes described in the eighteenth of Revelation, when those who are faithful and true are called out from Babylon,”-7 Bible Commentary, 968/1:4.

3 - There will be martyrs.

“The two armies will stand distinct and separate, and this distinction will be so marked that many who shall be convinced of truth will come on the side of God’s commandment-keeping people, When this grand work is to take place in the battle, prior to the last closing conflict, many will be imprisoned, many will flee for their lives from cities and towns, and many will be martyrs for Christ’s sake in standing in defense of the truth.”- Maranatha, 199:2.

“Christ will restore the life taken; for He is the Life-giver: He will beautify the righteous with immortal life.”-Maranatha, 199:6,

“There is a prospect before us of a continued struggle, at the risk of imprisonment, loss of property, and even of life itself, to defend the law of God,” -5 Testimonies 712:9.

“As he [Satan) influenced the heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. Men will be required to render obedience to human edicts in violation of the divine law, Those who are true to God will be menaced, denounced, proscribed, They will be ‘betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolk, and friends,’ even unto death.” -Prophets and Kings, 587:2-588:O.

Note: For the righteous, the “last closing conflict” is Jacob’s trouble, which comes after probation closes. We are told that there will be no martyrs after the close of probation (discussed later in this study; for example, see Great Controversy, page 634:1; 629:2; PK 513).

4 - God will give grace for every emergency.

“If we are called to suffer for Christ’s sake, we shall be able to go to prison trusting in Him as a little child trusts In Its parents. Now is the time to cultivate faith in God.”-Our High Calling, 357:3.

“We are not to have the courage and fortitude of martyrs of old until brought Into the position they were In. . Should there be a return of persecution there would be grace given to arouse every energy of the soul to show a true heroism.” -Our High Calling, 125:3.

“The disciples were not endowed with the courage and fortitude of the martyrs until such grace was needed.” -Desire of Ages, 354:3.

“When for the truth’s sake the believer stands at the bar of the unrighteous tribunals, Christ stands by his side. . When one is incarcerated in prison walls, Christ ravishes the heart with His love. When one suffers death for His sake, Christ says, ‘I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore,.. and have the keys of hell and of death.’ Revelation 1:8. The life that is sacrificed for Me is preserved unto eternal glory.” -Desire of Ages, 669:3.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

The Present Peace Is a Lull Before the Storm: Nations Will Be in Confusion.- “We have the light of prophecy -the Old Testament [which indicates] that we are standing on the threshold of the fulfillment of great and solemn events. Prophecies are coming down to point. The dangers and perils of the last days are right upon us. At the present time the angels are holding the four winds. There seems to be a little moment of peace. It is a lull in the conflicting elements just before the outburst of the unprecedented storm that has been gathering its forces for the last great crisis. Nations will be in confusion. Kingdoms will be terribly shaken. Everything betokens [that] the end is near.” -Undated Manuscript 153, pp. 1-4. (Copenhagen, Denmark, 1886.)

PERSECUTION

Persecution Will Come to Those Who Seek Uprightness and Holiness. - “The tyrant is seeking to oppress man’s conscience, which Christ has made free. Persecution will come more definitely and decidedly upon the people of God, because the godly are seeking for uprightness and holiness, and the disobedient are in sin. -Letter 2c, 1892, pp. 7-8,12-14. (To “Dear Brethren and Sisters in Battle Creek,” December 21, 1892). [See also-EV 506.]

False Charges Against the Truth and Its Representatives Will Create Holy Indignation in Non Adventists Who Reverence God. - ”The inconsistencies, the unreasonable workings of the human agents, stirred with a power from beneath, will create in those who reverence God, a holy indignation to see the truth of God brought into contempt, and its advocates misrepresented and clothed in garments of darkness-false charges. Then is the very time [that] the Holy Spirit is to take possession of the human mind and it be made to appear that Christ is formed within.”-Letter 60, 1899, p. 2. (To I. D. Van Horn, July 20, 1899). [See also-TMK 946.}

Commit the Word to Memory for the Time Is Coming when Many Will Be Deprived of It.- “The time will come (in] which many will be deprived of the Written Word. But, if this Word is printed in the memory, no one can take it from us . . It is a talisman that will meet the worst forms of error and evil..

The End Will Come Suddenly.-” Only for a very short time longer will the Lord bear with the gross wickedness that fills the world. Oh, how suddenly will the end come, surprising the world in their increasing iniquity.”-Manuscript 20, 1906, pp. 2-9. (“Preach The Word,” February 7, 1906). [See also: Evangelism 616-17; PM 224-5.J

God’s People Will be Scattered In Many Countries.-”The time is soon coming when God’s people, because of persecution, will be scattered in many countries. Those who have received an all-rounded education will have a great advantage wherever they are.” -Letter 92, 1908, p. 9. (“To Our Brethren in Positions of Responsibility,” January 6, 1908).

WARFARE

Great Trouble Will Soon Arise.- “Great trouble will soon arise among the nations which will not cease until Jesus comes.-Letter 5, 1889, pp. 1-5. (To “Brethren,” November 1889). [See 3Sm 414-415]

CALAMITIES

God Will Not Intervene to Protect the Property of Transgressors of His Law.-”What mean the awful calamities by sea-vessels hurled into eternity without a moment’s warning? What means the accidents by land-fire consuming the riches men have hoarded, much of which has been accumulating by oppression of the poor. The Lord will not interfere to protect the property of those who transgress His law, break His cove-nant, and trample upon His Sabbath, accepting in its place a spurious rest day.”-Manuscript 106, 1902, pp. 14-15. (“An aggressive Work,” July 21, 1902).

God Has a Purpose in Permitting Calamities. - “Frequently we hear of earthquakes, of tempests and tornadoes, accompanied by thunder and lightning. Apparently these are capricious outbreaks of seemingly disorganized, unregulated forces. But God has a purpose in permitting these calamities to occur. They are one of His means of calling men and women to their senses. By unusual workings through nature, God will express to doubting human agencies that which He clearly reveals in His Word..

Calamities Foreshadow What Will Happen Worldwide When Angels Loose Winds. ”Local disturbances in nature are permitted to take place as symbols of that which may be expected all over the world when the angels loose the four winds of the earth. The forces of nature are under the direction of an eternal Agency.” Manuscript 159, 1902, pp. 1-6. (Calamities, November 5, 1902). [See also: Mar 205; TE 95.}

STRIFE

Strife and Oppression of Foreign Nations Coming With Unanticipated Intensity. ”Very soon the strife and oppression of foreign nations will break forth with an intensity that you do not now anticipate.” - Manuscript 21, 1909, pp. 9-5. (“A Call to Service, “ a sermon preached in Takoma Park, Maryland, May 17,1909). [See also: Great Controversy, page 244.]

MARTYRS

God May Permit Some to Become Martyrs in the Issue over Obedience to God’s Commandments or the Commandments of Men. - “The worthies who refused to bow to the golden image were cast into a burning fiery furnace, but Christ was with them there, and the fire did not consume them. . Now some of us may be brought to just as severe a test: Will we obey the commandments of men or will we obey the commandments of God? This is the question that will be asked of many, The best thing for us is to come in close connection with God, and, if He would have us be martyrs for the truth’s sake, it may be the means of bringing many more into the truth,”-Manuscript 83, 1886, pp, 3, 5, (Sermon preached at Grimsby, England, September, 1886).

The Close Of Probation

INDIVIDUAL CLOSE OF PROBATION

In order to properly understand the individual close of probation, it is important that we understand what occurs when the mark and seal are applied, and the implications of those events.

A specific individual will not receive the mark or seal until (1) the National Sunday Law has been enacted, (2) he fully understands the Sabbath-Sunday issues, and (3) he makes his decision one way or the other. Because of this three-part requirement: (1) Those who have previously known the Sabbath truth and under-stood the issues involved, will enter the judgment of the living first; (2) they will receive the seal or mark before those who are ignorant of the issues; and (3) their probation will therefore close first.

As a result, those who are sealed will receive the latter rain and go out and begin giving the loud cry, while those who have received the mark will become their bitterest enemies. When a person receives the seal of God, he is sealed for eternity, “nevermore to be defiled by the tempter’s devices.” (5T 475).” When the [Sunday law] decree goes forth and the [seal] stamp is impressed, their character will remain pure and spotless for eternity.” (5T 216). In contrast, when a person receives the mark, he will never again have an opportunity to come to Christ, and he becomes totally hateful and evil. At the marking/sealing time in each person’s life, his name comes up in the judgment of the living-and his decision is etched forever in the books of heaven. His probation has ended.

Thus it is clear that, when the seal or mark is applied, a person’s probation has forever closed. We call that event the “Individual close of probation.” Yet, at that point in time, there are still many other people who have not made their final decision. As the loud cry message is extended outward throughout the world, more and more people make their decision and receive the mark or seal. Then the last person makes that decision, and the loud cry angel returns to heaven and reports the fact to Jesus. He throws down the censure of intercession, and declares, “It is done.” We call that event the “general close of probation.”

In this present study, we will view the individual close of probation. In the next, we will turn our attention to the general close of probation.

Some who have had their day of opportunity are passed by; while others will make the right decision.

Some will accept and be saved; while door will be closed to others who would not enter.

“The time of God’s destructive judgments is the time of mercy for those who have no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord look upon them. His heart of mercy is touched; His hand is still stretched out to save, while the door is closed to those who would not enter. Large numbers will be admitted who in these last days hear the truth for the first time.”-7 Bible Commentary, 979/1:3.

Unless we are daily advancing now, we will not be ready later.

“Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain. It may be falling on hearts all around us, but we shall not discern or receive it.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 507:1.

The light will be for those who had not earlier rejected it.

“The light that was shed upon the waiting ones penetrated everywhere, and those in the churches who had any light, who had not heard and rejected the three messages, obeyed the call and left the fallen churches.” - Early Writings, 278:1.

Those who have made the wrong decision become bitter enemies of their former brethren.

“As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side. Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbath keepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them.” -Great Controversy, 608:2.

The sealing time will be the closing work for the church.

“Especially in the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people.” -9 Testimonies, 266:2.

THE GENERAL CLOSE OF PROBATION

The national Sunday enactment, the general close of probation, the deliverance by the Voice of God, and the second advent of Christ -are the four major events of the last days. All other events find their origin, close, or reference point to one or more of those four events.

Of these, the general close of probation is, in a sense, the most solemn and thought provoking: The general close of probation marks the end of probationary time for all humanity.

Aside from the start of the Flood, there has never before in human history been a single event like it.

Are you and I living each day with Jesus, and in obedience to Him? Are we preparing for that great event, when our probation will eternally close?

THIS SOLEMN EVENT IS JUST BEFORE US

1 - Final events are clearly presented, but few are concerned.

“The events connected with the close of probation and the work of preparation for the time of trouble, are clearly presented. But multitudes have no more understanding of these important truths than if they had never been revealed. Satan watches to catch away every impression that would make them wise unto salvation, and the time of trouble will find them unready.” -Great Controversy, 594:1.

2 - Probation’s hour is fast closing; we must take heed and watch.

“The crisis is stealing gradually upon us. The sun shines in the heavens, passing over its usual round, and the heavens still declare the glory of God. Men are still eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying, and giving in marriage. Merchants are still buying and selling. Men are jostling one against another, contending for the highest place. Pleasure lovers are still crowding to theaters, horse races, gambling hells. The highest excitement prevails, yet probation’s hour is fast closing, and every case is about to be eternally decided.

Satan sees that his time is short. He has set all his agencies at work that men may be deceived, deluded, occupied and entranced, until the day of probation shall be ended, and the door of mercy be forever shut.

“Solemnly there come to us down through the centuries the warning words of our Lord from the Mount of Olives: ‘Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.’ ‘Watch ye therefore; and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass and to stand before the Son of man.’ “-Desire of Ages, 696:2-3.

EVENTS WILL BE ENDED

1 - Each person will have heard the call before the end comes.

“The solemn, sacred message of warning must be proclaimed in the most difficult fields and in the most sinful cities, In every place where the light of the great threefold gospel message has not yet dawned. Every one is to hear the last call to the marriage supper of the Lamb. From town to town, from City to city, from country to country, the message of present truth is to be proclaimed, not with outward display, but in the power of the Spirit.” -Gospel Workers. 27:1.

2 - It will have gone to all the world.

“The message of the renewing power of God’s grace will be carried to every country and clime, until the truth shall belt the world. Of the number of them that shall be sealed will be those who have come from every nation and kindred and tongue and people. From every country will be gathered men and women who will stand before the throne of God and before the Lamb, crying, ‘Salvation to our God which sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.’ “ Revelation 7:10. Counsel to Parents and Teachers. 592:1.

3 - The whole world will be illuminated.

“The whole earth is to be illuminated with the glory of God’s truth. The light is to shine to all lands and all peoples. And it is from those who have received the light that it is to shine forth. The daystar has risen upon us, and we are to flash its light upon the pathway of those in darkness.

“A crisis is right upon us. We must now by the Holy Spirit’s power proclaim the great truths for these last days. It will not be long before everyone will have heard the warning and made his decision. Then shall the end come.” -6 Testimonies, 24:1-2.

4 - The Savior’s intercession will have ceased, and the investigative judgment will have ended.

“The messages of this chapter [Revelation 14] constitute a threefold warning which is to prepare the inhabitants of the earth for the Lord’s second coming. The announcement, ‘The hour of His judgment is come,’ points to the closing work of Christ’s ministration for the salvation of men. It heralds a truth which must be proclaimed until the Savior’s Intercession shall cease and He shall return to the earth to take His people to Himself. The work of judgment which began in 1844 must continue until the cases of all are de-cided, both of the living and the dead; hence it will extend to the close of human probation.” -Great Controversy, 495:2-496:O.

HUMAN PROBATION WILL HAVE CLOSED

As soon as a man knowledgeably made his decision regarding the National Sunday Law decree, his destiny became fixed. The judgment of the living passed at that moment to his case, and he received the mark or the seal. Just then, his individual probation ended.

If he received the mark, he fully joined the ranks of the enemy; if he received the seal, he was filled with the Spirit as the latter rain was poured upon him, and he went out and gave the third angel’s message in a loud cry.

Still more individuals learned of the issues and made their decisions and received the mark or seal, and had their individual probations close. Finally, the message went to the uttermost parts of earth and the last person was sealed or marked.

At that point, the general close of human probation occurred.

1 - The greatest crisis in human history will come as mankind’s probation is nearly ended.

“It is in a crisis that character is revealed. When the earnest voice proclaimed at midnight, ‘Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,’ and the sleeping virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for the event. Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergency, and the other was found without preparation. So now, a sudden and unlooked-for calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether there is any real faith in the promises of God.

It will show whether the soul is sustained by grace. The great final test comes at the close of human proba-tion, when it will be too late for the soul’s need to be supplied, “-Christ’s Object Lessons. 412:1.

2 - Many had for years slighted the truth until they were shut out.

“Saddest of all words that ever fell on mortal/ ear are those words of doom, ‘I know you not.’ The fellowship of the Spirit, which you have slighted, could alone make you one with the joyous throng at the marriage feast. In that scene you cannot participate. Its light would fall on blinded eyes, its melody upon deaf ears. Its love and joy could awake no chord of gladness in the world-benumbed heart. You are shut out from heaven by your own unfitness for its companionship.” -Christ’s Object Lessons, 413:1.

3 - Christ’s mediation ends when the last case has been decided, but many will have waited too long to prepare.

“When Jesus ceases to plead for man, the cases of all are forever decided. This is the time of reckoning with His servants. To those who have neglected the preparation of purity and holiness, which fits them to be waiting ones to welcome their Lord, the sun sets in gloom and darkness, and rises not again. Probation closes; Christ’s intercessions cease in heaven.

This time finally comes suddenly upon all, and those who have neglected to purify their souls by obeying the truth are found sleeping.

“They became weary of waiting and watching; they became indifferent in regard to the coming of their Master. They longed not for His appearing, and thought there was no need of such continued, persevering watching. They had been disappointed in their expectations and might be again, they concluded that there was time enough yet to arouse. [By such a course of action,] They would be sure not to lose the opportunity of securing an earthly treasure. It would be safe to get all of this world they could. And in securing this object, they lost all anxiety and interest in the appearing of the Master. They became indifferent and careless, as though His coming were yet in the distance. But while their interest was buried up in their worldly gains, the work closed In the heavenly sanctuary, and they were unprepared.

“If such had only known that the work of Christ In the heavenly sanctuary would close so soon, how differently would they have conducted themselves, how earnestly would they have watched! The Master, anticipating all this, gives them timely warning in the command to watch. He distinctly states the suddenness of His coming. He does not measure the time, lest we shall neglect a momentary preparation, and in our indolence look ahead to the time when we think He will come, and defer the preparation. ‘Watch ye therefore: for ye know not.’ Yet this foretold uncertainty, and suddenness at last, fails to rouse us from stupidity to earnest wakefulness, and to quicken our watchfulness for our expected Master. Those not found waiting and watching are finally surprised In their unfaithfulness. The Master comes, and instead of their being ready to open unto Him immediately, they are locked in worldly slumber, and are lost at last.” -2 Testimonies. 191:1-192:O.

THE TIMING OF THE CLOSE OF PROBATION

No one can date the close of probation, or determine the time span of any event leading to or away from it. God has not revealed definite time for the close of probation (7BC 989 990; 1

SM 191), and we have been warned against time setting in regard to this event (7BC 989-990; 2SM 73).

1 - Let no man try to predict when probation has closed or will close.

“I plainly stated at the Jackson camp meeting to these fanatical parties that they were doing the work of the adversary of souls; they were in darkness. They claimed to have great light that probation would close In October 1884.

“I there stated in public that the Lord had been pleased to show me that there would be no definite time in the message given of God since 1844.” -2 Selected Messages. 73:2-3.

2 - Let us not seek to know that which God does not want us to know. (Actually, it would not be good for us, in advance, to know that date.)

“God has not revealed to us the time when this message will close, or when probation will have an end. Those things that are revealed we shall accept for ourselves and for our children; but let us not seek to know that which has been kept secret in the councils of the Almighty. It is our duty to watch and work and wait, to labor every moment for the souls of men that are ready to perish. We are to keep walking continually in the footsteps of Jesus, working in His lines, dispensing His gifts as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. Satan will be ready to give to anyone who is not learning every day of Jesus, a special message of his own creating, in order to make of no effect the wonderful truth for this time.

“Letters have come to me asking me if I have any special light as to the time when probation will close: and I answer that I have only this message to bear, that it is now time to work while the day lasts, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Now, just now, it is time for us to be watching, working, and waiting.”-1 Selected Messages, 191:1-2; 7 Bible Commentary, 989/2:4-5.

Note: Satan wants men to imagine that probation has already closed for some people in the church, or for all the people in the church. This teaching generally includes the idea that it is not now time to try to warn the world and win souls. Those who accept these errors tend to spiritually stagnate. They are no longer warning the church to repent of its sins, and they do not believe that, at this time, they should share the Advent truths with those out in the world. They neither try to win souls in the world to God or draw men in the church back from compromise and backsliding.

Do not cooperate with the devil! Reject the suggestion of those who declare that probation has already closed for some groups. Assume it has not closed-and keep working as earnestly as you can to warn men everywhere of the necessity of obedience to God’s requirements.

NO ONE CAN PREDICT WHEN PROBATION WILL CLOSE

1 - Each one will have heard the warning and made his decision.

“When the work of the investigative judgment closes, the destiny of all will have been decided for life or death. Probation is ended a short time before the appearing of the Lord in the clouds of heaven. . Perilous is the condition of those who, growing weary of their watch, turn to the attractions of the world. While the man of business is absorbed in the pursuit of gain, while the pleasure-lover is seeking indulgence, while the daughter of fashion is arranging her adornments, -it may be in that hour the Judge of all the earth will pronounce the sentence, ‘Thou are weighed in the balance, and art found wanting.’ “-Sons and Daughters of God, 355:3.

2 . The final withdrawal of the offer of salvation will finally occur.

“Silently, unnoticed as the midnight thief, will come the decisive hour which marks the fixing of every man’s destiny, the final withdrawal of mercy’s offer to guilty men. ‘Watch ye therefore . . lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.” Sons and Daughters of God, 355:4.

3 - Silently and unnoticed will come the final hour.

“The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in their mortal state -men will be planting and building, eating and drinking, all unconscious that the final, Irrevocable decision has been pronounced in the sanctuary above. Before the flood, after Noah entered the ark, God shut him in, and shut the ungodly out; but for seven days the people, knowing not that their doom was fixed, continued their careless, pleasure-loving life, and mocked the warnings of impending judgment. ‘So,’ says the Savior, ‘shall also the coming of the Son of man be.’ Silently, unnoticed as the midnight thief, will come the decisive hour which marks the fixing of every man’s destiny, the final withdrawal of mercy’s offer to guilty men.” -Great Controversy, 491:1.

4 - No one can predict that it has happened or when it will happen.

“When God’s presence was finally withdrawn from the Jewish nation, priests and people knew it not. . So when the irrevocable decision of the sanctuary has been pronounced and the destiny of the world has been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth will know it not. The forms of religion will be continued by a people from whom the Spirit of God has been finally withdrawn; and the satanic zeal with which the prince of evil will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear the semblance of zeal for God.” -Great Controversy, 615:1.

5 - Even Satan will not know when probation has closed.

“He [Satan) sees that holy angels are guarding them [the righteous), and he infers that their sins have been pardoned; but he does not know that their cases have been decided in the sanctuary above.”-Great Controversy, (i18:2.

6 - The close of probation did not awaken them, but the wrath-which follows-surely will.

“The people are fast being lulled to a fatal security, to be awakened only by the outpouring of God.” - Maranatha, 264:2.

7 - The final close of probation will also find many professed Sabbath keepers unready.

“The eye of Jesus, looking down the ages, was fixed upon our time when He said, ‘If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace!’ It is still thy day, O church of God, whom He has made the depositary of His law. This day of trust and probation is drawing to a close. The sun is fast westering. Can it be that it will set and thou wilt not know ‘the things which belong unto thy peace”? Must the irrevocable sentence be passed, ‘But now they are hid from your eyes.’ “ -Maranatha, 264:4.

THE FAITHFUL HAVE BEEN SEALED

From the time that the national Sunday law was enacted, onward, the sealing, marking, latter rain, and loud cry continued. But, finally, the last soul has been sealed or marked, and the final warning (the loud cry) has reached the last person on earth. Probation for the last soul has ended. Human probation is closed forever!

When the last saint has been sealed, and the number of the subjects in Christ’s kingdom has been made up - probationary time is completely finished for the entire planet. All are forever fixed in the character they had when their probation closed.

First paragraph sequence: (1) Michael (Christ) stands up, and mercy no longer pleads. (5) The (great) time of trouble begins, (6) and God’s people will be delivered (by the Voice of God).

Second paragraph sequence: (1) Pre- and post-latter rain work of God’s people done. (2) Angel returns to heaven and announces that the work is done, the final test has been brought to the world, and the sealing is completed.

“ ‘At that time shall Michael stand up, the great Prince which standeth for the children of thy people: there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, everyone that shall be found written in the book.’ Daniel 12:1.

“When the third angel’s message closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of God have accomplished their work. They have received ‘the latter rain. . ‘the refreshing from the presence of the Lord’ and they are prepared for the trying hour before them. Angels are hastening to and fro in heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done; the final test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received ‘the seal of the living God.’ “Great Controversy, 619:1-2.

2 - Sequence: (1) The saints had earlier been numbered; they had received the latter rain, been sealed, and had given the last warning (loud cry), which had enraged the wicked. (2) They were prepared for the final, trying hour, and now (3) an angel reports to Jesus that the final probationary events have ended.

“I was pointed down to the time when the third angel’s message was closing. The power of God had rested upon His people; they had accomplished their work and were prepared for the trying hour before them. They had received the latter rain, or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, and the living testimony had been revived. The last great warning had sounded everywhere, and it had stirred up and enraged the Inhabitants of the earth who would not receive the message.

“I saw angels hurrying to and fro in heaven. An angel with a writer’s inkhorn by his side returned from the earth and reported to Jesus that his work was done, and the saints were numbered and sealed.”- Early Writings, 279:1-2.

JESUS THROWS DOWN THE CENSER

The investigative judgment ends when the record of the last person on earth has been examined, and he has received the mark or seal. By definite words and actions, Jesus reveals to the angels and the unfallen worlds that human probation is ended.

1 - Sequence: (1) The last case has been decided, and received the atonement and blotting out of sins. (2) The number of Christ’s subjects is now complete. (3) Those subjects will, with Him, soon receive the kingdom and reign. (4) Jesus ceases His intercession and says, “It is done.”

“Then Jesus ceases His Intercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands and with a loud voice says, ‘It is done;’ and all the angelic host layoff their crowns as He makes the solemn announcement: ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let hi m be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.’ Revelation 22:11. Every case has been decided for life or death. Christ has made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins. The number of His subjects is made up; ‘the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven,’ is about to be given to the heirs of salvation, and Jesus is to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.” –Great Controversy, 613:2-614:O.

2 - Sequence: (1) Jesus had been ministering in the sanctuary for the righteous dead, and then the righteous living. (2) Now the atonement and blotting out of sins is completed, the number of subjects in His kingdom is complete, the marriage is past, and the kingdom has been given to Christ and the heirs with Him. (3) At that point, Jesus throws down the censer, and says, “It is done.”

“Then I saw Jesus, who had been ministering before the ark containing the Ten Commandments, throw down the censer. He raised His hands, and with a loud voice said, ‘It is done.‘

And all the angelic host laid off their crowns as Jesus made the solemn declaration, ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still..

“Every case had been decided for life or death. While Jesus had been ministering in the sanctuary, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. Christ had received His kingdom, having made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins. The subjects of the kingdom were made up. The marriage of the Lamb was consummated. And the kingdom, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, was given to Jesus and the heirs of salvation, and Jesus was to reign as King of kings and Lord of lords.” - Early Writings, 279:2-280:1.

3 - Even though probation has closed, God will continue to care for His own.

“But God’s people are not to fear. Satan can not go beyond his limit. The Lord will be the defense of His people. He regards the injury done to His servants for the truth’s sake as done to Himself. When the last decision has been made, when all have taken sides, either for Christ and the commandments or for the great apostate, God will arise In His power, and the mouths of those who have blasphemed against Him will be forever stopped. Every opposing power will receive its punishment.”-Maranatha, 191:2.

THE WORLD IS WITHOUT AN INTERCESSOR

There is no forgiveness of sin after the close of probation. Early Writings, 71, quoted below, is one of the most solemn warnings ever written to those willing who read it. Yet few of those, to whom these books have been entrusted, read anything in that book. They are too busy compromising with the world. But the warning has been given, and we had better heed it.

That warning is this: It is now, with the enabling help of Christ, that we are to put away our sins; later will be too late.

At this point in this set of studies on last day events, we will switch to present tense in our paragraph introductions to quotations.

1 - There is no intercessor, the restraint removed, and Satan controls the wicked.

“When He [Christ] leaves the sanctuary, darkness covers the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the righteous must live in the sight of a holy God without an Intercessor. The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent. God’s long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected His mercy, despised His love. and trampled upon His law. The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn.” -Great Controversy.

“As Jesus moved out of the most holy place, I heard the tinkling of the bells upon His garment; and as He left, a cloud of darkness covered the inhabitants of the earth. There was then no mediator between guilty man and an offended God. While Jesus had been standing between God and guilty man, a restraint was upon the people; but when He stepped out from between man and the Father, the restraint was removed and Satan had entire control of the finally impenitent.” Early Writings, 280:2.

“When Christ shall cease His work as mediator in man’s behalf, then this time of trouble will begin. Then the case of every soul will have been decided, and there will be no atoning blood to cleanse from sin. When Jesus leaves His position as man’s Intercessor before God the solemn announcement is made, ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still’ (Revelation 22:11). Then the restraining Spirit of God is withdrawn from the earth.” -Patriarchs and Prophets. 201:2.

2 - The wicked have no shelter, no mediator, and no preparation for the final conflict.

“I also saw that many do not realize what they must be In order to live In the sight of the Lord without a high priest In the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.

“I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to the time of ‘refreshing’ and the ‘latter rain’ to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who refuse to be hewed by the prophets and fail to purify their souls in obeying the whole truth, and who are willing to believe that their condition is far better than it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building.

“But there will be no time then to do it and no Mediator to plead their cause before the Father. Before this time the awfully solemn declaration has gone forth, ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.’ I saw that none could share the ‘refreshing’ unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should, therefore, be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord and be earnestly seeking that preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord. Let all remember that God is holy and that none but holy beings can ever dwell in His presence.”-Early Writings, 71:1-2.

3 - It will then be too late to witness and win souls.

“Oh, let us live wholly for the Lord and show by a well-ordered life and godly conversation that we have been with Jesus and are His meek and lowly followers. We must work while the day lasts, for when the dark night of trouble and anguish comes, it will be too late to work for God. Jesus is in His holy temple and will now accept our sacrifices, our prayers, and our confessions of faults and sins and will pardon all the transgressions of Israel, that they may be blotted out before He leaves the sanctuary. When Jesus leaves the sanctuary, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the living God. But those that are unjust and filthy will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest In the sanctuary to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the Father’s throne. Therefore what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath must be done before Jesus leaves the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary.” -Early Writings, 48: 1.

THE SINS ON THE SCAPE GOAT

The scapegoat transaction is based on a point of justice, and is solidly founded on a Biblical passage. During the Investigative judgment, the sins of those shown to be genuinely faithful to the Lord were removed from the book of sin. At the general close of probation, Jesus removes His mediatorial robes, preparatory to departing from the heavenly sanctuary. As He leaves the most holy place, He pauses in the first apartment and places the sins of the faithful to Satan’s account. In the final destruction of sin and sinners, Satan will bear the punishment for those sins. But he does not do this in an atoning sense on behalf of the righteous; note that His mediatorial work is already completed. The scapegoat transaction concerns punishment of sin, not mediation for mankind. Since Satan was the one who tempted the declared righteous to commit sins, the full responsibility for those actions is now rolled back on him.

For more on this, see Leviticus 16, and Early Writings 178,280-280,290; Great Controversy, page 422,485-486,658,660, 673; PP 358; and PK 591.

1 - The sins of the righteous are rolled back onto Satan.

“Jesus tarried a moment In the outer apartment of the heavenly sanctuary, and the sins which had been confessed while He was In the most holy place were placed upon Satan, the originator of sin, who must suffer their punishment.” -Early Writings. 280:2-281:O.

2 - In the final judgment, Satan must bear the penalty.

“When the high priest, by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, removed the sins from the sanctuary, he placed them upon the scapegoat. When Christ, by virtue of His own blood, removes the sins of His people

from the heavenly sanctuary at the close of His ministration, He will place them upon Satan, who, in the execution of the judgment, must bear the final penalty.” -Great Controversy. 422:2.

KINGLY ROBES OF VENGEANCE

1 - Jesus changes garments and leaves heaven.

“Then I saw Jesus layoff His priestly attire and clothe Himself with His most kingly robes. Upon His head were many crowns, a crown within a crown. Surrounded by the angelic host, He left heaven.” - Early Writings. 281:1.

“When Jesus rises up in the most holy place, and lays off His mediatorial garments, and clothes Himself with the garments of vengeance in place of the priestly attire, the work for sinners will be done. The period of time will then have come when the mandate will go forth: ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still:.. and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be.’ “-2 Testimonies, 691:O.

2 - Human probation ends.

“God has given His word for all to investigate, that they may learn the way to life. None need err if they will submit to the conditions of salvation laid down in the word of God. Probation is granted to all, that all may form characters for eternal life. An opportunity will be given to all to decide for life or death. Men will be judged according to the measure of light given them.

None will be accountable for their darkness and their errors if the light has not been brought to them. They have not sinned in not accepting what has not been given them. All will be tested before Jesus leaves His position In the most holy place. The probation of all closes when the pleading for sinners Is ended and the garments of vengeance are put on.

“Many entertain the view that probation is granted after Jesus leaves His work as mediator in the most holy apartment. This is the sophistry of Satan. God tests and proves the world by the light which He is pleased to give them previous to the coming of Christ. Characters are then formed for life or death. But the probation of those who choose to live a life of sin, and neglect the great salvation offered, closes when Christ’s min-istration ceases just previous to His appearing in the clouds of heaven.” -2 Testimonies, 691:1-2.

3 - Jesus steps out from between God and man, and the plagues begin to be poured out.

“I saw that Jesus would not leave the most holy place until every case was decided either for salvation or destruction, and that the wrath of God could not come until Jesus had finished His work in the most holy place, laid off His priestly attire, and clothed Himself with the garments of vengeance. Then Jesus will step out from between the Father and man, and God will keep silence no longer, but pour out His wrath on those who have rejected His truth.” -Early Writings. 30:1.

Note: The seven last plagues begin to be poured out as soon as the general close of probation occurs.

NO SECOND PROBATION

This present life is all that we have in which to prepare for eternity. There will be no second chance at some later time. When probation ends, the opportunity for salvation-for those who had so far refused it-also ends.

1 - This is our only and last opportunity.” We are to make the best of our present opportunities. There will be no other probation given to us in which to prepare for heaven. This is our only and last opportunity to

form characters which will fit us for the future home which the Lord has prepared for all who are obedient to His commandments.” -Last Day Events, 286:3-237:O.

2 - There will be no second probationary time.

“All will be tested and tried according to the light they have had. Those who turn from the truth to fables can look for no second probation. There will be no temporal millennium. If, after the Holy Spirit has brought conviction to their hearts, they resist the truth and use their influence to block the way so that others will not receive it, they will never be convinced. They did not seek for transformation of character in the probation given them, and Christ will not give them opportunity to pass over the ground again. The decision is a final one.” -Last Day Events. 237:2.

3 - There will be no probation after Jesus returns.

“There will be no probation after the coming of the Lord. Those who say that there will be are deceived and misled. Before Christ comes just such a state of things will exist as existed before the Flood. And after the Savior appears in the clouds of heaven no one will be given another chance to gain salvation. All will have made their decisions.” -Last Day Events, 237:1.

WHEN PROBATION CLOSES

1 - Gain, Indulgence, and adornments.

“While the man of business Is absorbed in the pursuit of gain, while the pleasure lover is seeking Indulgence, while the daughter of fashion Is arranging her adornments -it may be in that hour the Judge of all the earth will pronounce the sentence: ‘Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting’ (Daniel 5:27).”Great Controversy, 491:2.

2 - Planting, building, eating, and drinking.

“The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in their mortal state-men will be planting and building, eating, and drinking, all unconscious that the final, Irrevocable decision has been pronounced In the sanctuary above.” -Great Controversy, 491:1.

3 - Forms of religion and apparent zeal for God.

“When the irrevocable decision of the sanctuary has been pronounced, and the destiny of the world has been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth will know it not. The forms of religion will be continued by a people from whom the Spirit of God has been finally withdrawn, and the satanic zeal with which the prince of evil will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear the semblance of zeal for God.” -Great Controversy, 615: 1.

4 - The contrast will be obvious.

“The wheat and tares ‘grow together until the harvest.’ In the discharge of life’s duties the righteous will to the last be brought In contact with the ungodly. The children of light are scattered among the children of darkness, that the contrast may be seen by all.”-5 Testimonies, 100:2.

5 - Luxury, marriage bells, and the hope of prosperity.

“When the professed people of God are uniting with the world, living as they live, and joining with them in forbidden pleasure; when the luxury of the world becomes the luxury of the church; when the marriage bells are chiming, and all are looking forward to many years of worldly prosperity -then, suddenly as the lightning flashes from the heavens, will come the end of their bright visions and delusive hopes.” Great Controversy, 398:2-339:O.

6 - Farmers, merchants, lawyers, and tradesmen.

“When Lot warned the members of his family of the destruction of Sodom, they would not heed his words, but looked upon him as a fanatical enthusiast. The destruction that came found them unprepared. Thus it will be when Christ comes -farmers, merchants, lawyers, tradesmen, will be wholly engrossed In business, and upon them the day of the Lord will come as a snare.” Last Day Events, 232:4-238:O.

7 - Ease, amusements, buying and selling.

“When men are at ease, full of amusement, absorbed in buying and selling, then the thief approaches with stealthy tread. So it will be at the coming of the Son of man.” -Last Day Events, 233:2.

8 - Philosophy, religion, business, pleasure, planting, building, feasting, and merry making.

“When the reasoning of philosophy has banished the fear of God’s judgments, “When the reasoning of philosophy has banished the fear of God’s judgments, when religious teachers are pointing forward to long ages of peace and prosperity, and the world are absorbed in their rounds of business and pleasure, planting and building, feasting and merry making, rejecting God’s warnings and mocking His messengers -then it is that sudden destruction cometh upon them, and they shall not escape.” -Patriarchs and Prophets. 104:O.

9 - Pleasure, business, traffic, merrymaking, religion, and apparent progress and enlightenment.

“Come when it may, the day of God will come unawares to the ungodly. When life is going on in its unvarying round; when men are absorbed in pleasure, in business, In traffic, in moneymaking; when religious leaders are magnifying the world’s progress and enlightenment, and the people are lulled In a false security -then, as the midnight thief steals within the unguarded dwelling, so shall sudden destruction come upon the careless and ungodly, ‘and they shall not escape.’ “-Great Controversy, 38:1.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

All Will Be Tested and Tried According to the light Received; There Will Be No Second Probation. - “All will be tested and tried, according to the light they have had, Those who turn from the truth to fables can look for no second probation. There will be no temporal millennium. If, after the Holy Spirit has brought conviction to their hearts, they resist the truth and use their influence to block the way so that others will not receive it, they will never be convinced, They did not seek for transformation of character in the probation given them, and Christ will not give them [an] opportunity to pass over the ground again. The decision is a final one.” -Letter 28, 1900, pp. 2-8. (To “Brother and Sister [W, WI Prescott, “ February 17, 1900), [See also: Maranatha 191.]

The Great Time Of Trouble

THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES

The little time of trouble began with the setting up of the image and enactment of the national Sunday law. Yet, prior to the close of probation, Satan was restrained from causing all the misery that he desired. Souls needed to be warned and Satan’s power was limited. But, when probation for all mankind ends, this restraint is removed.

Immediately, two different powerful agencies begin work. (1) Satan has more freedom to wreak havoc upon the wicked, and (2) the time for the outpouring of God’s wrath, as promised in the third angel’s message, begins. Satan works through destructions, calamities, and warfare; God sends His angels to pour out the seven vials of the plagues.

The “winds” of disaster, strife, and bloodshed, which good angels have held back till the close of probation, are caused and worked by Satan. He originated them by tempting mankind to sin. Wickedness always brings evil results, but the full impact of those results is held back until probation ends.

The plagues, in contrast, are different. After having extended pleading and mercy to them throughout most of their lives, the plagues are part of God’s judgments upon sinners.

As Jesus throws down the censer, He leaves the sanctuary, instructs the angels with the vials of wrath to begin pouring them upon the wicked, and instructs the four angels who hold the four winds to release them -permitting Satan to bring intense devastations and strife to the wicked. Thus, both devastations from Satan and the seven plagues from God -two separate sets of events -simultaneously begin occurring.

The seven last plagues begin at the end of the general close of probation (Early Writings 36, 52, 280282; Great Controversy, page 629; 5T 212). But, in order to avoid confusion, in Great Controversy, discussion of the plagues is postponed until after the devastations and strife caused by Satan has been explained.

Here is the arrangement of material in the Great Controversy chapter, which takes us from the general close of probation to just before the Voice of God. (“The Time of Trouble,” chapter 39):

The general close of probation (Great Controversy, page 613:1614:O). Satanic strife and desolations (Great Controversy, page 614:1-615:1). Persecution of righteous, bringing on Jacob’s trouble (Great Controversy, page 615:2-620:1).

Discussion of how we now need to prepare for the satanic delusions, miracles, and personation of Christ which will soon occur (Great Controversy, page 620:2626:O). The effect of the death decree (Great Controversy, page 615:2) on the righteous is discussed (Great Controversy, page 626:1-627:1). The outpouring of the seven last plagues is presented (Great Controversy, page 627:2-629:1). As He has done in the past, God will care for His faithful ones throughout that terrible time (Great Controversy, page 629:2-634:1).

In the book, Great Controversy, there are two mentions of Satan’s personation of Christ. The first is found on pages 588-589, and refers to a time before the close of probation. The second is found in chapter 39 (pages 624-625)-but it occurs within a flashback section. That flashback occurs from page 620:2 to page 626:O. (More about this in the section in this chapter on’ “Satan Personates Christ.”)

The period from the setting up of the image by the threefold union to the close of probation is the little time of trouble, and the time span from the close of probation to the second advent is the great time of trouble.

These troublous times especially affect the wicked. The righteous are more shielded from both. Yet, during the great time of trouble, the wicked heavily persecute and seek to slay the righteous. This brings the faithful into that anguishing experience, known as the time of Jacob’s trouble. It is also called their “final conflict” (with the beast and his image).

A TERRIBLE ORDEAL

1 - The terrible power of Satan is unleashed in destructions and combat.

“Four mighty angels are still holding the four winds of the earth. Terrible destruction is forbidden to come in full. The. . winds will be the stirring up of the nations to one deadly combat, while the angels hold the four winds, forbidding the terrible power of Satan to be exercised in its fury until the servants of God are sealed in their forehead.”‘- Maranatha, 175:1.

2 - Only the faithful will be protected at that time.

“Those only who have clean hands and pure hearts will stand in that trying time. . Now is the time, while the four angels are holding the four winds, to make our calling and election sure,” Early Writings, 58:O, 2.

3 - It is a terrible ordeal.

“The time of trouble such as never was is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess, and which many are too indolent to obtain, It Is often the case that trouble Is greater In anticipation than In reality; but this Is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. And now, while the precious Savior is making an atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect in Christ. God’s providence is the school in which we are to learn the meekness and lowliness of Jesus. The Lord is ever setting before us, not the way we would choose, which is easier and pleasanter to us, but the true aims of life, None can neglect or defer this work but at the most fearful peril to their souls.” -4 Spirit of Prophecy, 440-441 (1884 Great Controversy).

GOD REMOVES HIS PROTECTION FROM THE WICKED

1 - The angels do not prevent Satan’s working.

“I was shown that the judgments of God would not come directly out from the Lord upon them, but in this way: They place them selves beyond His protection, He warns, corrects, reproves, and points out the only path of safety; then, if those who have been the objects of His special care will follow their own course, independent of the Spirit of God, after repeated warnings, if they choose their own way, then He does not commission His angels to prevent Satan’s decided attacks upon them.

“It Is Satan’s power that Is at work at sea and on land, bringing calamity and distress and sweeping off multitudes to make sure of his prey, “-Last Day Events, 242:1-2.

2 - Because God’s Spirit is withdrawn.

“Already the Spirit of God, insulted, refused, abused, is being withdrawn from the earth, Just as fast as God’s Spirit is taken away, Satan’s cruel work will be done upon land and sea.” Last Day Events, 242:4.

3 - The wicked are no longer sheltered by God.

“The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn, Unsheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one.” -Great Controversy, 614:1.

4 - God’s enemies become instruments of destruction.

“God will use His enemies as Instruments to punish those who have followed their own pernicious ways whereby the truth of God has been misrepresented, misjudged, and dishonored.” Last Day Events, 242:3.

5 - The destruction of Jerusalem anticipated.

“The Savior’s prophecy concerning the visitation of judgments upon Jerusalem is to have another fulfillment, of which that terrible desolation was but a faint shadow. In the fate of the chosen city we may behold the doom of a world that has rejected God’s mercy and trampled upon His law,” -Great Controversy, 36:2.

6 - Exercised by evil angels when He permits.

“The same destructive power exercised by holy angels when God commands, will be exercised by evil angels when He permits. There are forces now ready, and only waiting the divine permission, to spread desolation everywhere.” Great Controversy, 614:2.

THE FOUR WINDS ARE LOOSED

1 - The armies of Satan are unleashed.

“Angels are belting the world, refusing Satan his claims of the vast multitudes of his adherents. We hear not the voices, we see not with the natural sight the work of these angels, but their hands are linked about the world, and with sleepless vigilance they are keeping the armies of Satan at bay till the sealing of God’s people shall be accomplished.” -7 Bible Commentary, 967/2:2.

2 - The winds (of disaster, strife, and warfare) are loosed.

“John sees the elements of nature, earthquake, tempest, and political strife, represented as being held by four angels. These winds are under control until God gives the word to let them go. There is the safety of God’s church. The angels of God do His bidding, holding back the winds of the earth, that the winds should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree, until the servants of God should be sealed in their foreheads.” -Testimonies to Ministers, 444:9.

3 - The stupendous crisis, held back so long, breaks in all its fury.

“The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living. Rulers and statesmen, men who occupy positions of trust and authority, thinking men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed upon the events taking place about us. They are watching the strained, restless relations that exist among the nations. They observe the intensity that is taking possession of every earthly element, and they realize that something great and decisive is about to take place -that the world is on the verge of a stupendous crisis.

“Angels are now restraining the winds of strife, until the world shall be warned of its coming doom; but a storm Is gathering, ready to burst upon the earth, and when God shall bid His angels loose the winds, there will be such a scene of strife as no pen can picture..

“A moment of respite has been graciously given us of God. Every power lent us of heaven is to be used in doing the work assigned us by the Lord for those who are perishing in ignorance. The warning message is to be sounded in all parts of the world. . A great work is to be done, and this work has been entrusted to those who know the truth for this time.”-Maranatha, 266:9-5.

4 - Trouble beyond comparison.

“The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger -a faith that will not faint, though severely tried.

“The ‘time of trouble such as never was’, is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess, and which many are too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal.” -Great Controversy, 621:2, 622:4.

5 - Terrible laws will be enacted.

“When Jesus leaves the most holy, His restraining Spirit is withdrawn from rulers and people. They are left to the control of evil angels. Then such laws will be made by the counsel and direction of Satan that, unless time should be very short, no flesh could be saved.” -1 Testimonies, 204:O.

Note: The above statements indicate that if time were to last after the close of probation, the wicked would destroy not only the righteous, but also all the wicked.

THE WORLD INTO CONFLICT AND DISASTERS

1 - The whole world becomes involved in terrible ruin.

“Unsheltered by divine grace, they [the wicked] have no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.

“A single angel destroyed all the first-born of the Egyptians and filled the land with mourning. When David offended against God by numbering the people, one angel caused that terrible destruction by which his sin was punished. The same destructive power exercised by holy angels when God commands, will be exercised by evil angels when He permits. There are forces now ready, and only waiting the divine permission, to spread desolation everywhere.” -Great Controversy, 614:1-2.

2 - Deadly warfare by the nations will occur.

“Four mighty angels hold back the powers of this earth till the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. The nations of the world are eager for conflict, but they are held in check by the angels. When this restraining power is removed, there will come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly Instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels with their living cargo will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of satanic agencies, but they are to be kept under control till the time shall come for the great battle of Armageddon.” -7 Bible Commentary, 967/2:1.

3 - Terrible tragedies will occur.

“I have seen the most costly structures in buildings erected and supposed to be fireproof. And just as Sodom perished in the flames of God’s vengeance, so will these proud structures become ashes. I have seen vessels which cost immense sums of money wrestling with the mighty waters, seeking to breast the angry billows. But with all their treasures of gold and silver, and with their human freight they sink into a watery grave. Man’s pride will be buried with the treasures he has accumulated by fraud. God will avenge the widows and orphans who in hunger and nakedness have cried to Him for help from oppression and abuse.

“The time is right upon us when there will be sorrow in the world that no human balm can heal. The flattering monuments of men’s greatness will be crumbled in the dust, even before the last great destruction comes upon the world.

“Only by being clothed with the robe of Christ’s righteousness can we escape the judgments that are coming upon the earth.” -9 Selected Messages, 418:9-419:1.

THE FAITHFUL ARE BLAMED

1 - The faithful are blamed for the time of trouble.

“Those who honor the law of God have been accused of bringing the judgments upon the world, and they will be regarded as the cause of the fearful convulsions of nature and the strife and bloodshed among men that are filling the earth with woe. The power attending the last warning has enraged the wicked; their anger is kindled against all who have received the message, and Satan will excite to still greater intensity the spirit of hatred and persecution.” -Great Controversy, 614:9-615:O.

WICKED CONSIDER THEMSELVES SERVANTS OF GOD

The counterfeit revival, which began just before the setting up of the image by the enactment of the National Sunday Law, will continue on beyond the general close of probation.

1 - The wicked are filled with satanic religious zeal.

“When God’s presence was finally withdrawn from the Jewish nation, priests and people knew it not. Though under the control of Satan, and swayed by the most horrible and malignant passions, they still regarded themselves as the chosen of God. The ministration in the temple continued; sacrifices were offered upon its polluted altars, and daily the divine blessing was invoked upon a people guilty of the blood of God’s dear Son and seeking to slay His ministers and apostles. So when the irrevocable decision of the sanctuary has been pronounced and the destiny of the world has been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth will know it not. The forms of religion will be continued by a people from whom the Spirit of God has been finally withdrawn; and the satanic zeal with which the prince of evil will inspire them for the accomplishment of his malignant designs, will bear the semblance of zeal for God.”-Great Controversy, 615:1.

SATAN WILL WORK GREAT MIRACLES

1 - Miracle-working demons and men display satanic power.

“Fearful sights of a supernatural character will soon be revealed in the heavens, in token of the power of miracle working demons. The spirits of devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fasten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last struggle against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world’s Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing and will profess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures.” Great Controversy, 624:1.

SATAN PERSONATES CHRIST

In the book, Great Controversy, there are two mentions of Satan’s personation of Christ. The first is found on pages 588-589, and refers to a time before the close of probation. The second is found in chapter 39 (pages 624-625) -but it occurs within a flashback section. That flashback occurs from page 620:2 to page 626:O.

Before and after that flashback, we are being told about Jacob’s trouble, and the agonizing experience of God’s people just before their deliverance by the Voice of God. Thus it would appear that the second men-tion of Satan’s personation of Christ in Great Controversy -actually refers to his appearance prior to the close of probation. Of course, Satan may also appear after the close of probation. The crucial point here is that Satan definitely will appear before the close of probation-while the faithful are giving the loud cry.

In order to understand this for yourself, carefully read Great Controversy, page 621:2-625:1. Here is the arrangement of this flashback: Jacob’s trouble (Great Controversy, page 615:2-620:1).

Flashback begins:

The preparation we should now be making (Great Controversy, page 620:2-623:3). Satan will soon begin presenting fearful sights of a supernatural nature to us, and will work miracles (Great Controversy, page 624:1). Satan will personate Christ (Great Controversy, page 624:2-625:2).

We must now prepare for what is soon to come -when Satan will appear as Christ and tell the people they should keep Sunday instead of the Sabbath (Great Controversy, page 625:3-626:O).

Flashback ends.

More on the Jacob’s trouble crisis, brought on by the death decree (Great Controversy, page 626:1-627:1). The plagues are poured out (Great Controversy, page 627:2-etc.).

1 - Satan will personate Christ.

“As the second appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ draws near, satanic agencies are moved from beneath. Satan will not only appear as a human being, but he will personate Jesus Christ; and the world that has rejected the truth will receive him as the Lord of lords and King of kings.” -5 Bible Commentary, 1105/2:4-1106/1:O.

2 - This dazzling being will appear in different parts of the world.

“The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have yet beheld. The shout of triumph rings out upon the air: ‘Christ has come! Christ has come!’ The people prostrate themselves in adoration before him, while he lifts up his hands and pronounces a blessing upon them, as Christ blessed His disciples when He was upon the earth. His voice is soft and subdued, yet full of melody. In gentle, compassionate tones he presents some of the same gracious, heavenly truths which the Savior uttered; he heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed. He declares that those who persist in keeping holy the seventh day are blaspheming his name by refusing to listen to his angels sent to them with light and truth. This is the strong, almost overmastering delusion. Like the Samaritans who were deceived by Simon Magus, the multitudes, from the least to the greatest, give heed to these sorceries, saying: This is ‘the great power of God.’ Acts 8:10.

3 - He is not permitted to counterfeit Christ’s coming in the skies with glory and thousands of angels.

“And, furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Savior has warned His people against deception upon this point, and has clearly foretold the manner of His second coming. ‘There shall arise false christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. . Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, He is in the desert; go not forth: behold, He is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightening cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.’ Matthew 24:24-27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. This coming there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known -witnessed by the whole world.

“Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures and who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive. By the Bible testimony these will detect the deceiver in his disguise. To all the testing time will come. By the sifting of temptation the genuine Christian will be revealed. Are the people of God so firmly established upon His word that they would not yield to the evidence of their senses? Would they, in such a crisis, cling to the Bible and the Bible only? Sa-tan will, if possible, prevent them from obtaining a preparation to stand in that day. He will so arrange affairs as to hedge up their way, entangle them with earthly treasures, cause them to carry a heavy, wearisome burden, that their hearts may be overcharged with the cares of this life and the day of trial may come upon them as a thief.” Great Controversy, 625:2-626:O.

THE DEATH DECREE

We earlier saw clearly that the National Sunday law initiates the loud cry of the third angel and the placement of the seal and mark. But could the “decree” of 5 Testimonies, 212 be the “death decree,” instead of the “Sunday law decree”? Here is a brief comparison of the two decrees:

The Sunday law decree is made by the image beast (5T 451; Rev 13:11-17). It is the test before we are sealed (7BC 976). Every nation on earth enacts a similar one (6T 395). It contains the threat of death (5T81). It causes a great sifting in the church (5T 81). It will be the test before the Loud Cry (5T 81-82; 6T 401; 2SM 380).

The universal death decree is made after the close of probation (Early Writings 282, 34, 37; Great Controversy, page 615). It is made by a world-wide legislature (Early Writings 282; PK 512). After a certain period of time, people are given liberty to kill the saints (Great Controversy, page 615). It cannot be made before the close of probation (Great Controversy, page 610-611). It marks the commencement of the Time of Jacob’s Trouble (Early Writings 36-37).

So we see that the Sunday law decree will not be made after the close of probation, for it will be the great final probationary test. In contrast, the universal death decree cannot be made before probation’s close, and it directly precedes that climatic post-probation event -Jacob’s trouble -which ends at the sounding of the Voice of God.

Two intriguing passages, quoted below, reveal the stipulations of the death decree (1 T 353-354), and who enacts it (5T 213):

1 - Evil laws are made, which would result in destroying everyone.

“When Jesus leaves the most holy, His restraining Spirit is withdrawn from rulers and people. They are left to the control of evil angels.

Then such laws will be made by the counsel and direction of Satan, that unless time should be very short, no flesh could be saved,”- 1 Testimonies, 204.

2 - A death decree is issued.

“As the Sabbath has become the special point of controversy throughout Christendom, and religious and secular authorities have combined to enforce the observance of the Sunday, the persistent refusal of a. small minority to yield to the popular demand will make them objects of universal execration. If will be urged that the few who stand In opposition to an Institution of the church and a law of the state ought not to be tolerated; that it is better for them to suffer than for whole nations to be thrown into confusion and lawlessness. The same argument eighteen hundred years ago was brought against Christ by the ‘rulers of the people.’ ‘It is expedient for us,’ said the Wily Caiaphas, ‘that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.’ John 11:50. This argument will appear conclusive; and a decree will finally be issued against those who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, denouncing them as deserving of the severest punishment and giving the people liberty, after a certain time, to put them to death. Romanism in the Old World and apostate Protestantism in the New will pursue a similar course toward those who honor all the divine precepts.” Great Controversy, 615:2-616:O.

“A decree went forth to slay the saints, which caused them to cry day and night for deliverance.”- Early Writings, 96:2-97:O.

3 - It will be a universal decree.

“Especially will the wrath of man be aroused against those who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and at last a universal decree will denounce them as deserving of death.”-Prophets and Kings, 512:1,

Note: The death decree will apparently be a joint, simultaneous decree made by all nations.

4 - It comes after the close of probation.

“When this time of trouble comes, every case is decided; there is no longer probation, no longer mercy for the impenitent. The seal of the living God is upon His people, This small remnant, unable to defend themselves in the deadly conflict with the powers of earth that are marshaled by the dragon host, make God their defense. The decree has been passed by the highest earthly authority that they shall worship the beast and receive his mark under pain of persecution and death.”-5 Testimonies, 219:O.

5 - It is to take effect at a certain time.

“Then I saw the leading men of the earth consulting together, and Satan and his angels busy around them. I saw a writing, copies of which were scattered in different parts of the land, giving orders that unless the saints should yield their peculiar faith, give up the Sabbath, and observe the first day of the week, the people were at liberty after a certain time to put them to death. But in this hour of trial the saints were calm and composed, trusting in God and leaning upon His promise that a way of escape would be made for them. In some places, before the time for the decree to be executed, the wicked rushed upon the saints to slay them; but angels in the form of men of war fought for them. Satan wished to have the privilege of destroying the saints of the Most High; but Jesus bade His angels watch over them. God would be honored by making a covenant with those who had kept His law, in the sight of the heathen round about them; and Jesus would be honored by translating, without their seeing death, the faithful, waiting ones who had so long expected Him.” -Early Writings, 282:2-283:O.

6 - This decree will be similar to that issued by the Persian king in the time of Queen Esther (see PK 598606).

“The decree that will finally go forth against the remnant people of God will be very similar to that Issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews. Today the enemies of the true church see in the little company keeping the Sabbath commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The reverence of God’s people for His law is a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling on His Sabbath.” -Prophets and Kings, 605:2.

“If the people of God will put their trust in Him and by faith rely upon His power, the devices of Satan will be defeated in our time as signally as in the days of Mordecai.”-Last Day Events, 259:1.

7 - The decree requires that (1) the faithful must violate God’s Sabbath and not rest on it, and (2) they must worship on the Sunday, or else they will die.

“The decree will go forth that they must disregard the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, and honor the first day, or lose their lives; but they will not yield, and trample under their feet the Sabbath of the Lord, and honor an institution of papacy. Satan’s host and wicked men will surround them, and exult over them, be-cause there will seem to be no way of escape for them.”- 1 Testimonies, 353:4-354:O.

SATAN’S TRY’S TO DESTROY SABBATH KEEPERS

1 - He wants a law to exterminate.

“Says the great deceiver . . ‘Our principle concern Is to silence this sect of Sabbath-keepers . . We will finally have a law to exterminate all who will not submit to our authority.’ “ Testimonies to Ministers, 472:2.473:1.

2 - He will try to blot them from the earth.

“It is the purpose of Satan to cause them to be blotted from the earth in order that his supremacy of the world may not be disputed.” Testimonies to Ministers, 37:O.

3 - He will stir up the wicked to destroy them.

“The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects. He has gained control of the apostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced the heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God.” -9 Testimonies, 231:1.

4 - The faithful will be blamed for the judgments.

“I saw that the four angels would hold the four winds until Jesus’ work was done in the Sanctuary, and then will come the seven last plagues. These plagues enraged the wicked against the righteous; they thought that we had brought the judgments of God upon them, and that If they could rid the earth of us, the plagues would then be stayed.” - Early Writings, 36:2.

5 - Sabbath-keeping will be declared to be the problem.

“When the angel of mercy folds her wings and departs, Satan will do the evil deeds he has long wished to do. Storm and tempest, war and bloodshed -in these things he delights, and thus he gathers in his harvest. And so completely will men be deceived by him that they will declare that these calamities are the result of the desecration of the first day of the week. From the pulpits of the popular churches will be heard the statement that the world is being punished because Sunday is not honored as it should be.” Last Day Events, 256:3.

THE TIME OF JACOB’S TROUBLE

Both the righteous and the wicked suffered in the small time of trouble, during the loud cry. The close of probation initiates the great time of trouble, when Satan will plunge the world into even greater misery than before. But the enactment of the death decree will mark the beginning of the greatest emotional crisis for the faithful: Jacob’s trouble.

This topic is so important that it is discussed in a lengthy passage in Great Controversy. You will want to careful read it: Great Controversy, page 618:2-623:2 (PP 195-203 Is similar). We will only quote part of the passage here.

1 - The issuance of the death decree begins Jacob’s trouble for God’s people.

“I saw that the four angels would hold the four winds until Jesus’ work was done in the sanctuary, and then will come the seven last plagues. These plagues enraged the wicked against the righteous; they thought that we had brought the judgments of God upon them, and that if they could rid the earth of us, the plagues would then be stayed. A decree went forth to slay the saints, which caused them to cry day and night for deliverance. This was the time of Jacob’s trouble.” -Early Writings, 36:2-37:O.

2 - The final crisis for God’s people.” Friday [Jan. 18, 1884] night several heard my voice exclaiming, ‘Look, Look!’ Whether I was dreaming or in vision I cannot tell. I slept alone.

“The time of trouble was upon us. I saw our people in great distress, weeping and praying, pleading the sure promises of God, while the wicked were all around us mocking us and threatening to destroy us. They ridiculed our feebleness, they mocked at the smallness of our numbers, and taunted us with words calculated to cut deep. They charged us with taking an independent position from all the rest of the world. They had cut off our resources so that we could not buy or sell, and they referred to our abject poverty and stricken condition. They could not see how we could live without the world. We were dependent on the

world, and we must concede to the customs, practices, and laws of the world, or go out of it. If we were the only people in the world whom the Lord favored, the appearances were awfully against us.

“They declared that they had the truth, that miracles were among them; that angels from heaven talked with them and walked with them, that great power and signs and wonders were performed among them, and that this was the temporal millennium they had been expecting so long. The whole world was converted and in harmony with the Sunday law, and this little feeble people stood out defiance of the laws of the land and the law of God, and claimed to be the only ones right on the earth.” -3 Selected Messages, 427:4,428:1.

3 - It is a time of affliction and distress.

“The people of God will then [when the death decree is enacted] be plunged Into those scenes of affliction and distress described by the prophet as the time of Jacob’s trouble. ‘Thus said the Lord: We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace. . All faces are turned into paleness. Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it. It is even the time of Jacob’s trouble; but he shall be saved out of it.’ Jeremiah 30:5-7.

“Jacob’s night of anguish, when he wrestled in prayer for deliverance from the hand of Esau (Genesis 32:24-30), represents the experience of God’s people in the time of trouble.“ - Great Controversy, 616:1-2 (5T 451:2).

4 - It is a time of wrestling in prayer.

“As Satan influenced Esau to march against Jacob, so he will stir up the wicked to destroy God’s people In the time of trouble. And as he accused Jacob, he will urge his accusations against the people of God. He numbers the world as his subjects; but the little company who keep the commandments of God are resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete.” -Great Controversy, 618:2.

5 - Only God can help them.

“ ‘And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great Prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, everyone that shall be found written in the book’ [Daniel 12:1]. When this time of trouble comes, every case is decided; there is no longer probation, no longer mercy for the impenitent. The seal of the living God is upon His people.

6 - Satan accuses God’s people.

“As Satan accuses the people of God on account of their sins, the Lord permits him to try them to the uttermost. Their confidence in God, their faith and firmness, will be severely tested. As they review the past, their hopes sink; for in their whole lives they can see little good. They are fully conscious of their weakness and unworthiness. Satan endeavors to terrify them with the thought that their cases are hopeless, that the stain of their defilement will never be washed away. He hopes so to destroy their faith that they will yield to his temptations and turn from their allegiance to God.”-Great Controversy, 618:8-619:O.

7 - Their deepest concern is for God’s glory, not for their own lives or salvation.

“Though God’s people will be surrounded by enemies who are bent upon their destruction, yet the anguish which they suffer is not a dread of persecution for the truth’s sake; they fear that every sin has not been

repented of, and that through some fault in themselves they will fail to realize the fulfillment of the Savior’s promise: I ‘will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world.’ Revelation 3:10. If they could have the assurance of pardon they would not shrink from torture or death; but should they prove unworthy, and lose their lives because of their own defects of character, then God’s holy name would be reproached.” Great Controversy, 619:1.

8 - Scattered in groups, God’s people will be tried singly.

“The people of God are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies and in all parts of the earth; and they will be tried singly, not in groups. Every one must stand the test for himself.” -4 Bible Commentary, 1149/2:2.

“The faith of individual members of the church will be tested as though there were not another person in the world.”-7 Bible Commentary, 989/1:1.

A FINAL SPECIAL TEST

The time of Jacob’s trouble will be a final special test for a final, special degree of character perfection. In order to properly understand this, we need to compare it with the test given Christ in Gethsemane. It was there that Christ took the cup and baptism of suffering. By it He was perfected (Hebrews 5:8-9). Yet, before entering upon that final test, Christ was already without sin. So the final test will be, not a removal of sin, but a special experience in trusting the Father in the midst of very crucial trials.

1 - Trusting in God, crying to God submitting to His will, pleading for deliverance-they drink the cup and are baptized with the baptism.

“I saw measures taken against the company who had the light and power of God. Darkness thickened around them; yet they stood firm, approved of God, and trusting In Him. I saw them perplexed; next I heard them crying unto God earnestly. Day and night their cry ceased not: ‘Thy will, O God, be done! If it can glorify Thy name, make a way of escape for Thy people!

Deliver us from the heathen around about us. They have appointed us unto death; but Thine arm can bring salvation.’ These are all the words which I can bring to mind. All seemed to have a deep sense of their unworthiness and manifested entire submission to the will of God; yet, like Jacob, every one, without an exception, was earnestly pleading and wrestling for deliverance.

“Soon after they had commenced their earnest cry, the angels, in sympathy, desired to go to their deliverance. But a tall, commanding angel suffered them not. He said, ‘The will of God is not yet fulfilled. They must drink of the cup. They must be baptized with the baptism.’ “-Early Writings, 272:1.

2 - The delay is the best answer to their prayers.

“Could men see with heavenly vision, they would behold companies of angels that excel in strength stationed about those who have kept the word of Christ’s patience. With sympathizing tenderness, angels have witnessed their distress and have heard their prayers. They are waiting the word of their Commander to snatch them from their peril. But they must wait yet a little longer. The people of God must drink of the cup and be baptized with the baptism. The very delay, so painful to them, is the best answer to their petitions.”-Great Controversy, 690:2-691:O.

3 - It is a crucible to refine their characters.

“The time of trouble is the crucible that is to bring out Christ like characters. It is designed to lead the people of God to renounce Satan and his temptations.” -Maranatha, 279:4.

4 - All sins have previously been repented of and forsaken.

5 - They will be aware of short comings.

“God’s people. . will have a deep sense of their shortcomings, and as they review their lives their hopes will sink. But remembering the greatness of God’s mercy, and their own sincere repentance, they will plead His promises made through Christ to helpless, repenting sinners. Their faith will not fail because their prayers are not immediately answered. They will lay hold of the strength of God, as Jacob laid hold of the Angel, and the language of their souls will be, ‘I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me.’ “Patriarchs and Prophets, 202:1.

6 - The objective: a perfect reflection of Christ.

“Jacob’s history is also an assurance that God will not cast off those who have been deceived and tempted and betrayed into sin, but who have returned unto Him with true repentance. While Satan seeks to destroy this class, God will send His angels to comfort and protect them in the time of peril. The assaults of Satan are fierce and determined, his delusions are terrible; but the Lord’s eye is upon His people, and His ear list-ens to their cries. Their affliction is great, the flames of the furnace seem about to consume them; but the Refiner will bring them forth as gold tried in the fire. God’s love for His children during the period of their severest trial is as strong and tender as in the days of their sunniest prosperity; but it is needful for them to be placed in the furnace of fire; their earthliness must be consumed, that the Image of Christ may be per-fectly reflected.”-Great Controversy, 621:1.

7 - We, today, may and should seek such a deeper experience.

“The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger -a faith that will not faint though severely tested. The period of probation is granted to all to prepare for that time. Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His victory is an evidence of the power of importunate prayer. All who will lay hold of God’s promises, as he did, and be as earnest and persevering as he was, will succeed as he succeeded. Those who are unwilling to deny self, to agonize before God, to pray long and earnestly for His blessing, will not obtain it. Wrestling with God -how few know what it is! How few have ever had their souls drawn out after God with intensity of desire until every power is on the stretch. When waves of despair which no language can express sweep over the suppliant, how few cling with unyielding faith to the promises of God.

“Those who exercise but little faith now, are in the greatest danger of falling under the power of satanic delusions and the decree to compel the conscience. And even if they endure the test they will be plunged into deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have never made it a habit to trust in God. The lessons of faith which they have neglected they will be forced to learn under a terrible pressure of discouragement.

“We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving His promises. Angels record every prayer that is earnest and sincere. We should rather dispense with selfish gratifications than neglect communion with God. The deepest poverty, the greatest self-denial, with His approval, is better than riches, honors, ease, and friendship without it. We must take time to pray. If we allow our minds to be absorbed by worldly interests, the Lord may give us time by removing from us our idols of gold, of houses, or of fertile lands.” - Great Controversy, 621:2-622:2.

8 - It is now -not later-that we are to separate sin from our lives, and become perfect in Christ.

“Now, while our great High Priest Is making the atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect In Christ. Not even by a thought could our Savior be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But Christ declared of Himself: ‘The prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me.’ John 14:30. Satan could find nothing in the Son of God that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father’s commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand in the time of trouble.

“It is in this life that we are to separate sin from us, through faith in the atoning blood of Christ. Our Precious Savior invites us to join ourselves to Him, to unite our weakness to His strength, our ignorance to His wisdom, our unworthiness to His merits. God’s providence is the school in which we are to learn the meekness and lowliness of Jesus. The Lord is ever setting before us, not the way we would choose, which seems easier and pleasanter to us, but the true aims of life. It rests with us to co-operate with the agencies which Heaven employs in the work of conforming our characters to the divine model. None can neglect or defer this work but at the most fearful peril to their souls.” -Great Controversy, 623:1-2.

THE RIGHTEOUS FLEE

1 - God will lead His people to safe refuges, if they will but obey His marching orders (and those orders include getting out of the cities!).

“During the night a very impressive scene passed before me. There seemed to be great confusion and the conflict of armies. A messenger from the Lord stood before me, and said, ‘Call your household. I will lead you; follow me. ‘ He led me down a dark passage, through a forest, then through the clefts of mountains, and said, ‘Here you are safe. ‘ There were others who had been led to this retreat. The heavenly messenger said, ‘The time of trouble has come as a thief in the night, as the Lord warned you it would come.’“ - Maranatha, 270:3.

2 - In the (great) time of trouble, the last of the faithful leave the cities and villages.

“In the time of trouble we all fled from the cities and villages, but were pursued by the wicked, who entered the houses of the saints with a sword. They raised the sword to kill us, but it broke, and fell as powerless as a straw. Then we all cried day and night for deliverance, and the cry carne up before God.” -Early Writings, 34:1.

3 - They go to solitary places.

“I saw the saints leaving the cities and villages, and associating together in companies, and living in the most solitary places. Angels provided them food and water, while the wicked were suffering from hunger and thirst.” -Early Writings, 282:2.

4 - While some left the cities earlier, others (waiting too long) are imprisoned.

“As the decree issued by the various rulers of Christendom against commandment keepers shall withdraw the protection of government and abandon them to those who desire their destruction, the people of God will flee from the cities and villages and associate together in companies, dwelling in the most desolate and solitary places. Many will find refuge in the strongholds of the mountains. Like the Christians of the Piedmont valleys, they will make the high places of the earth their sanctuaries and will thank God for ‘the munitions of rocks.’ Isaiah 33:16. But many of all nations and of all classes, high and low, rich and poor, black and white, will be cast into the most unjust and cruel bondage. The beloved of God pass weary days, bound in chains, shut In by prison bars, sentenced to be slain, some apparently left to die of starvation in dark and loathsome dungeons. No human ear is open to hear their moans; no human hand is ready to lend them help.

“Will the Lord forget His people in this trying hour? Did He forget faithful Noah. . Joseph. Elijah.. Jeremiah. . the three worthies. .Daniel?”-Great Controversy, 626:1.

5 - Houses and lands will then be useless.

“Houses and lands will be of no use to the saints in the time of trouble, for they will then have to flee before infuriated mobs, and at that time their possessions cannot be disposed of to advance the cause of present truth.

“I saw that if any held on to their property, and did not inquire of the Lord as to their duty,’ He would not make duty known, and they would be permitted to keep their property, and in the time of trouble it would come up before them like a mountain to crush them, and they would try to dispose of it, but would not be able. . But if they desired to be taught, He would teach them, in a time of need, when to sell and how much to sell.”-Early Writings, 56:9, 57:1.

6 - God will provide for His people’s needs in the great time of trouble.

“The Lord has shown me repeatedly that it is contrary to the Bible to make any provision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw that if the saints had food laid up by them or in the field in the time of trouble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are in the land, it would be taken from them by violent hands, and strangers would reap their fields.

“Then will be the time for us to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us. I saw that our bread and water will be sure at that time, and that we shall not lack or suffer hunger, for God is able to spread a table for us in the wilderness. If necessary He would send ravens to feed us, as He did to feed Elijah, or rain manna from heaven, as He did for the Israelites.” -Early Writings, 56:2.

“The time of trouble is just before us, and then stern necessity will require the people of God to deny self and to eat merely enough to sustain life, but God will prepare us for that time. In that fearful hour our necessity will be God’s opportunity to impart His strengthening power and to sustain His people.”- 1 Testimonies, 206:1.

“Bread and water is all that is promised to the remnant in the time of trouble.” -Story of Redemption, 129:2.

7 - None will then need to work to support themselves.

“I saw that a time of trouble was before us, when stern necessity will compel the people of God to live on bread and water. . In the time of trouble none will labor with their hands. Their sufferings will be mental, and God will provide food for them.”-Last Day Events, 265:1.

8 - Angels will care for them.

“In the time of trouble, just before the coming of Christ, the righteous will be preserved through the ministration of heavenly angels.” -Patriarchs and Prophets, 256:1.

“In the midst of the time of trouble that is coming -a time of trouble such as has not been since there was a nation -God’s chosen people will stand unmoved. Satan and his host cannot destroy them, for angels that excel in strength will protect them.” -9 Testimonies, 17:1.

THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES

We are listing this event in the sequence given in chapter 39 of Great Controversy. But we are told that it actually begins as soon as Jesus leaves the sanctuary (Great Controversy, page 627:2), and the wicked begin to oppress God’s people (Great Controversy, page 627:1). In that important book, the plagues (627:2-

629:O) are purposely not described immediately following Christ’s departure from the sanctuary. If they had, the description of the plagues would have been intermingled with the description of the desolations caused by Satan, thus confusing the two. To avoid this, chapter 39 was arranged so that the two would be clearly separated.

Jesus wears priestly garments in the heavenly sanctuary. When probation ends, he leaves that structure and, at the entrance, removes those robes and, in their place, puts on the garments of vengeance (Early Writings 281:1). The time has come for Him to command His angels to begin pouring out the plagues upon the wicked in retribution for what they have done and are doing to the righteous. He gives that command.

It is quite clear that two different desolating series of events begin as soon as worldwide probation ends: (1) The four winds are loosed, and Satan is permitted to bring disasters and plunge the world into strife (Great Controversy, page 614:1). (2) Christ commands His own angels to begin pouring out the seven last plagues upon the wicked (Great Controversy, page 627:1, 2; 628:O). In each case, the wording is definite: Christ permits the “four wind” desolations which Satan produces, while Satan has no part in bringing the plagues which God sends.

The plagues, discussed in some detail in Great Controversy, 627:2-630:O, actually begin as soon as probation closes, and Jesus puts on His garments of vengeance.

Although the crisis was reached when all nations passed the Sunday law, yet mercy continued until everyone had been clearly shown the issues involved. Then probation closes and the wrath is poured out.

For a far more extensive comparative analysis of this subject, see our ten-part tract set, The Terrible Storm, now in section two of our tract book, Offshoots.

THE JUDGMENTS SENT FROM GOD

God not only permits Satan to bring strife and conflict (by letting His angels unloose the four winds), but He also, at times, directly sends judgments (as in the seven last plagues) but these are only given to the incorrigibly wicked. (See our tract book, The Terrible Storm.) He never directly sends judgments upon the undecided; only the totally reprobate receive God’s outpoured wrath.

1 - Justice is shown in punishing the sinner.

“It is the glory of God to be merciful, full of forbearance, kindness, goodness, and truth. But the justice shown In punishing the sinner is as verily the glory of the Lord as is the manifestation of His mercy.” -Last Day Events, 240:1.

“The Lord God of Israel is to execute judgment upon the gods of this world as upon the gods of Egypt. With fire and flood, plagues and earthquakes, He will spoil the whole land. Then His redeemed people will exalt His name and make it glorious in the earth. Shall not those who are living in the last remnant of this earth’s history become intelligent in regard to God’s lessons?”-10 Manuscript Releases, 240:2-241:O (1899).

“In all the Bible, God is presented not only as a Being of mercy and benevolence, but as a God of strict and impartial justice.” -Last Day Events, 240:4.

2 - When probation ends, justice takes its place.

“The One who has stood as our Intercessor; who hears all penitential prayers and confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love, encircling His head, is soon to cease His work in the heavenly sanctuary. Grace and mercy will then descend from the throne, and Justice will take their place. He for whom His people have looked will assume His right -the office of Supreme Judge.” -Last Day Events, 240:3.

3 - The One who made the law will punish for its transgression.

“God’s love is represented in our day as being of such a character as would forbid His destroying the sinner. Men reason from their own low standard of right and Justice. ‘Thou thought that I was altogether such an one as thyself’ (Psalm 50:21). They measure God by themselves. They reason as to how they would act under the circumstances and decide God would do as they imagine they would do.

“In no kingdom or government is it left to the lawbreakers to say what punishment is to be executed against those who have broken the law. All we have, all the bounties of His grace which we possess, we owe to God. The aggravating character of sin against such a God cannot be estimated any more than the heavens can be measured with a span. God is a moral governor as well as a Father. He is the Lawgiver. He makes and executes His laws. Law that has no penalty is of no force.

“The plea may be made that a loving Father would not see His children suffering the punishment of God by fire while He had the power to relieve them. But God would, for the good of His subjects and for their safety, punish the transgressor. God does not work on the plan of man. He can do infinite justice that man has no right to do before his fellow man. Noah would have displeased God to have drowned one of the scoffers and mockers that harassed him, but God drowned the vast world. Lot would have had no right to inflict punishment on his sons-in-law, but God would do it in strict justice.

“Who will say God will not do what He says He will do?”-12 Manuscript Releases, 207-209; 10 Manuscript Releases, 265 (1876).

4 - At times, angels of God exercise destructive power.

“God’s judgments were awakened against Jericho. It was a stronghold. But the Captain of the Lord’s host Himself came from heaven to lead the armies of heaven in an attack upon the city. Angels of God laid hold of the massive walls and brought them to the ground.” -3 Testimonies, 264:1.

“Under God the angels are all-powerful. On one occasion, in obedience to the command of Christ, they slew of the Assyrian army in one night one hundred and eighty-five thousand men.”-Desire of Ages, 700:5.

“The same angel who had came from the royal courts to rescue Peter had been the messenger of wrath and judgment to Herod. The angel smote Peter to arouse him form slumber. It was with a different stroke that he smote the wicked king, laying low his pride and bringing upon him the punishment of the Almighty. Herod died in great agony of mind and body, under the retributive judgment of God.” -Acts of the Apostles, 152:1,

“God destroys no-one. The sinner destroys himself by his own impenitence.” -5 Testimonies, 120:1.

THE POURING OF THE PLAGUES

1 - When wickedness reaches a certain amount.

“God keeps a reckoning with the nations. Through every century of this world’s history evil workers have been treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath; and when the time fully comes that iniquity shall have reached the stated boundary of God’s mercy, His forbearance will cease. When the accumulated figures In heaven’s record books shall mark the sum of transgression complete, wrath will came, unmixed with mercy, and then it will be seen what a tremendous thing it is to have worn out the divine patience. This crisis will be reached when the nations shall unite in making void God’s law.” 5 Testimonies, 524:O.

2 - Jesus steps out from between God and man, and the plagues are poured out.

“As His [Christ’s] work there is finished, and His Intercession closes, there is nothing to stay the wrath of God, and It breaks with fury upon the shelterless head of the guilty sinner, who has slighted salvation and hated reproof. In that fearful time, after the close of Jesus’ mediation, the saints were living in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor. Every case was decided, every jewel numbered.” -Early Writings, 280:2.

“Solemn events before us are yet to transpire. Trumpet after trumpet is to be sounded; vial after vial poured out one after another upon the inhabitants of the earth.” - 9 Selected Messages, 426:1.

“The world is soon to be left by the angel of mercy, and the seven last plagues are to be poured out. . The bolts of God’s wrath are soon to fall, and when He shall begin to punish the transgressors, there will be no period of respite until the end.” -Testimonies to Ministers 182:2.

3 - The plagues begin when probation closes.

“God’s judgments will be visited upon those who are seeking to oppress and destroy His people. His long forbearance with the wicked emboldens men in transgressions, but their punishment is nonetheless certain and terrible because it is long delayed. ‘The Lard shall rise up as in Mount Perazim, He shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that He may do His work, His strange work; and bring to pass His act, His strange act’ ..

“When Christ ceases His Intercession in the sanctuary, the unmingled wrath threatened against those who warship the beast and his image and receive his mark (Revelation 14:9-10),

will be poured out. The plagues upon Egypt when God was about to deliver Israel were similar in character to those more terrible and extensive judgments which are to fall upon the world, just before the final deliverance of God’s people.” -Great Controversy, 627:2, 3-628:O (Testimonies To Ministers, page 182).

4 - They are unmixed with mercy, but not worldwide..

“These plagues are not universal, or the inhabitants of the earth would be wholly cut off, yet they will be the most awful scourges that have ever been known to mortals. All the judgments upon men, prior to the close of probation, have been mingled with mercy. The pleading blood of Christ has shielded the sinner from receiving the full measure of his guilt; but in the final judgment, wrath is poured out unmixed with mercy.” Great Controversy, 628:2-629:O.

Note: It Is Interesting to compare the ten plagues on Egypt and the seven last plagues on the wicked.

THE DEATH DECREE

1 - Sequence: (1) Jesus ends His mediation. (2) He stands up and puts on the garments of vengeance. (3) The seven last plagues begin to be poured out. (4) This enrages the wicked, and they think that If they could eliminate the righteous, the plagues would stop. (4) So they issue the death decree.

“I saw that. . Michael had not stood up, and that the time of trouble, such as never was, had not yet commenced. The nations are now getting angry, but when our High Priest has finished His work in the sanctuary, He will stand up, put on the garments of vengeance, and then the seven last plagues will be poured out.

WICKED PLEAD WITH THE RIGHTEOUS

1 - Multitudes will desire mercy.

“In that day, multitudes will desire the shelter of God’s mercy which “they have so long despised.” -Great Controversy, 629:1.

2 - Men will wish that mercy and salvation was still extended.

“The Lord in judgment will at the close of time walk through the earth, the fearful plagues will begin to fall. Then those who have despised God’s word, those who have lightly esteemed it, shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east: they shall run to and fro to seek the word of Lord and shall not find it . . The ministers of God will have done their last work, offered their last prayers, shed their last bitter tear for a rebellious church and an ungodly people,” Maranatha, 264:3.

3 - Sequence: (1) Probation closes. (2) Fear and horror seize many of the wicked. (3) They seek mercy and salvation, but cannot find it.

“The plagues were falling upon the inhabitants of the earth. Some were denouncing God and cursing Him, Others rushed to the people of God and begged to be taught how they might escape His judgments. But the saints had nothing for them. The last tear for sinners had been shed, the last agonizing prayer offered, the last burden borne, the last warning given. The sweet voice of mercy was no more to invite them.

When the saints, and all heaven, were interested for their salvation, they had no interest for themselves. Life and death had been set before them. Many desired life, but made no effort to obtain it. They did not choose life, and now there was no atoning blood to cleanse the guilty, no compassionate Savior to plead for them, and cry, ‘Spare, spare the sinner a little longer.’

All heaven had united with Jesus, as they heard the fearful words, ‘It is done. It is finished.’ The plan of salvation had been accomplished, but few had chosen to accept it. And as mercy’s sweet voice died away, fear and horror seized the wicked. With terrible distinctness they heard the words, ‘Too late! too late!’

“Those who had not prized God’s Word were hurrying to and fro, wandering from sea to sea, and from the north to the east, to seek the Word of the Lord. Said the angel, ‘They shall not find it. There is a famine in the land; not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but for hearing the words of the Lord. What would they not give for one word of approval from God, but no, they must hunger and thirst on. Day after day have they slighted salvation, prizing earthly riches and earthly pleasure higher than any heavenly treasure or inducement. They have rejected Jesus and despised His saints. The filthy must remain filthy forever.’ “-Early Writings, 281:1-282:O.

JACOB’S TROUBLE REACHES ITS CLIMAX

During Jacob’s trouble, the angels provide a wall of protection around the faithful and even give them food.

1 -Angels shield and nourish them.

“The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of food they will not be left to perish. That God who cared for Elijah will not pass by one of His self-sacrificing children. He who numbers the hairs of their head will care for them, and in time of famine they shall be satisfied. While the wicked are dying from hunger and pestilence, angels will shield the righteous and supply their wants.” Great Controversy, 629:2.

2 -The pleadings of the faithful continue to ascend to God, while the wicked exult that soon they can slay them.

“Yet to human sight it will appear that the people of God must soon seal their testimony with their blood as did the martyrs before them. They themselves begin to fear that the Lord has left them to fall by the hand of their enemies. It is a time of fearful agony. Day and night they cry unto God for deliverance. The wicked exult.” Great Controversy, 630:1.

3 - Companies of angels are about them.

“Like Jacob, all are wrestling with God. Their countenances express their internal struggle. Paleness sits upon every face. Yet they cease not their earnest intercession.

4 - They are pursued by the wicked.

“As the saints left the cities and villages, they were pursued by the wicked, who sought to slay them. But the swords that were raised to kill God’s people broke and fell as powerless as a straw. Angels of God shielded the saints. As they cried day and night for deliverance, their cry came up before the Lord.”-Early Writings, 284:2-285:O.

5 - Angels defend them.

“The heavenly sentinels, faithful to their trust, continue their watch. Though a general decree has fixed the time when commandment keepers may be put to death, their enemies will in some cases anticipate the decree, and before the time specified, will endeavor to take their lives. But none can pass the mighty guardians stationed about every faithful soul. Some are assailed in their flight from the cities and villages; but the swords raised against them break and fall powerless as a straw. Others are defended by angels in the form of men of war.” - Great Controversy, 691:1 (Early Writings 289:1),

6 - Satan wants them slain.

“In some places, before the time for the decree to be executed, the wicked rushed upon the saints to slay them; but angels in the form of men of war fought for them. Satan wished to have

the privilege of destroying the saints of the Most High; but Jesus bade His angels watch over them. God would be honored by making a covenant with those who had kept His law, in the

sight of the heathen round about them; and Jesus would be honored by translating, without their seeing death, the faithful, waiting ones who had so long expected Him.”-Early Writings, 283:O.

7 - Three circles about each company of saints.

“Soon I saw the saints suffering great mental anguish. They seemed to be surrounded by the wicked Inhabitants of the earth. Every appearance was against them. Some began to fear that God had at last left them to perish by the hand of the wicked. But if their eyes could have been opened, they would have seen themselves surrounded by angels of God. Next came the multitude of the angry wicked, and next a mass of evil angels, hurrying on the wicked to slay the saints. But before they could approach God’s people, the wicked must first pass this company of mighty, holy angels. This was impossible. The angels of God were causing them to recede and also causing the evil angels who were pressing around them to fall back.”-Early Writings, 289:1.

NO MARTYRS AFTER THE CLOSE OF PROBATION

1 - Martyrdom now would accomplish nothing of value.

“If the blood of Christ’s faithful witnesses were shed at this time, it would not, like the blood of the martyrs, be as seed sown to yield a harvest for God. Their fidelity would not be a testimony to convince others of the truth; for the obdurate heart has beaten back the waves of mercy until they return no more. If the righteous were now left to fall a prey to their enemies, it would be a triumph for the prince of darkness. . Glorious will be the deliverance of those who have patiently waited for His coming and whose names are written in the book of life.” -Great Controversy, 634:1.

2 - It would only bring triumph to Satan.

“God would not suffer the wicked to destroy those who were expecting translation, and who would not bow to the decree of the beast or receive his mark. I saw that if the wicked were permitted to slay the saints, Satan and all his evil host, and all who hate God, would be gratified. And oh, what a triumph it would be for his satanic majesty, to have power, in the last closing struggle, over those who had so long waited to behold Him whom they loved! Those who have mocked at the idea of the saints’ going up, will witness the care of God for His people and behold their glorious deliverance.” -Early Writings, 284:1.

3 - They will not be left to perish.

“The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of food they will not be left to perish.” -Great Controversy, 629:2.

4 - Scattered in companies throughout the world, the faithful are protected by Christ and His angels.

“In the day of fierce trial He [Christ] will say, ‘Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be over past.’ What are the chambers in which they are to hide? They are the protection of Christ and holy angels. The people of God are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies, and in all parts of the earth.” - Maranatha, 270:1.

5 - There will be no safety for commandment-breakers.

“In the time of trouble, just before the coming of Christ, the righteous will be preserved through the ministration of heavenly angels; but there will be no security for the transgressor of God’s law. Angels cannot then protect those who are disregarding one of the divine precepts.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 256:1.

6 - Satan cannot destroy them.

“In the closing period of earth’s history the Lord will work mightily in behalf of those who stand steadfastly for the right. . In the midst of the time of trouble -trouble such as has not been since there was a nation -His chosen ones will stand unmoved. Satan with all the hosts of evil can not destroy the weakest of God’s saints. Angels that excel in strength will protect them, and in their behalf Jehovah will reveal Himself as a ‘God of gods,’ able to save to the uttermost those have put their trust in Him.” -Prophet and Kings, 519:1.

THE NIGHT APPOINTED TO SLAUGHTER

1 - Deliverance comes at midnight.

“It is at midnight that God manifests His power for the deliverance of His people.” -Great Controversy, 696:2.

“It was at midnight that God chose to deliver His people.”-Early Writings, 285:1.

2 - The plan is to slay all the faithful in one night.

“When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be, in different lands, a simultaneous movement for their destruction. As the time appointed in the decree draws near, the people will conspire to root out the hated sect. It will be determined to strike In one night a decisive blow, which shall utterly silence the voice of dissent and reproof.”-Great Controversy, 695:1.

3 - In that hour God interposes.

“The people of God -some in prison cells, some hidden in solitary retreats in the forests and the mountains - still plead for divine protection, while in every quarter companies of armed men, urged on by hosts of evil angels, are preparing for the work of death. It is now, in the hour of utmost extremity, that the God of Israel will interpose for the deliverance of His chosen. Said the Lord: ‘Ye shall have a song, as in the night when a holy solemnity is kept; and gladness of heart, as when one goes. . to come into the mountain of the Lord, to the Mighty One of Israel. And the Lord shall cause His glorious voice to be heard, and shall show the lighting down of His arm, with the indignation of His anger, and with the flame of a devouring fire, with scattering, and tempest, and hailstones.’ Isaiah 30:29-30.” Great Controversy, 695:2.

4 - Deliverance begins by means of sudden darkness and encircling rainbows.

“With shouts of triumph, jeering, and imprecation, throngs of evil men are about to rush upon their prey, when, lo, a dense blackness, deeper than the darkness of the night, falls upon the earth. Then a rainbow, shining with the glory from the throne of God, spans the heavens and seems to encircle each praying company. The angry multitudes are suddenly arrested. Their mocking cries die away. The objects of their murderous rage are forgotten. With fearful forebodings they gaze upon the symbol of God’s covenant and long to be shielded from its overpowering brightness.” -Great Controversy, 635:93- 636:O.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and Is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

SEVEN LAST PLAGUES

God Will Punish the World for Its Iniquity When Sabbath-keeping Is Made a Crime. “The Lord declares, ‘When it is made a crime for My people to keep holy the Sabbath, then I will arise out of My place and punish the world for its iniquity. The earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.’ “-Manuscript 33, 1900. pp. 5, 6, 8-10, 18. (“Unfaithful Shepherds,” June 25, 1900). {See also: CG 513.}

The Second Advent

The sounding of the Voice of God in the heavens is one of four major events before the millennium begins. Each of those four major events (the national Sunday law, the general close of probation, the Voice of God, and the second advent) marks a decided transition.

When the Voice sounds, a remarkable number of different events rapidly occurs, and then, soon after, Jesus returns the second time. We will begin this study with a presentation of the battle of Armageddon, and then we will view the final events from the Voice of God to the second advent.

THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON

In the late nineteenth century, Uriah Smith told a friend that, because of current political developments that indicated that the nation of Turkey might again become a prominent power in the Near East, there was a possibility that Turkey might be the “king of the north” mentioned in Daniel 11. He said that, in his book, he was going to identify the king of the north as the nation of Turkey; but that, if events changed, he would revert back to the regular Adventist view of the subject. In a few years those events did reverse, but, to the day of his death in 1903, Smith never removed his “new view” from his book, Daniel and Revelation. There is only one reference to Turkey in Great Controversy (Great Controversy, page 334-335), and it obviously has nothing to do with the battle of Armageddon. In addition, the Spirit of Prophecy places that battle in the future, not in the past.

It is more likely that the “battle of Armageddon” is the climax of the massive conflict, so soon to begin, with Satan and his followers on one side and Christ and His faithful commandment-keeping people on the other. This conflict bursts into the open when the national Sunday law is enacted and, in a sense, it will still be actively carried on a thousand years later as Satan prepares for the final attack against the Holy City. The battle of Armageddon Is actually the last phase of the entire great controversy between Christ and Satan.

The following passages identify the Armageddon battle with the outpouring of the seventh plague, which we know especially applies to that time when the voice of God delivers His people from the physical power of the wicked, on down to the second advent of Christ. In the “Twelve Rapid Events” section, which follows, military and warfare terms are frequently mentioned in the quotations (“battle, war, armies of heaven, powers of earth, munitions, weapons, “ etc.).

1 - Why men join in the rebellion.

“The enmity of Satan against good will be manifested more and more as he brings his forces into activity in his last work of rebellion, and every soul that is not fully surrendered to God and kept by divine power will form an alliance with Satan against heaven and Join in battle against the Ruler of the universe.” - Testimonies to Ministers, 465:O.

2 - Soon all will have taken sides.

“Soon all the Inhabitants of the earth will have taken sides, either for or against the government of heaven.”-7 Testimonies,141:2.

3 - The armies of heaven are on one side of the battle.

“The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings, and Lord of lords, is soon to lead forth the armies of heaven.

“It cannot now be said by the Lord’s servants, as it was by the prophet Daniel: ‘The time appointed was long.’ Daniel 10:1. It is now but a short time till the witnesses for God will have done their work in preparing the way of the Lord.”- 6 Testimonies, 406:3-4.

4 - The nations of the world are on the other side.

“Four mighty angels hold back the powers of this earth till the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads. The nations of the world are eager for conflict; but they are held in check by the angels. When this restraining power is removed, there will come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels, with their living cargo, will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of satanic agencies. But they are to be kept under control till the time shall come for the great battle of Armageddon.” -7 Bible Commentary, 967/2:1.

5 - Armageddon is definitely occurring at the time of the seventh plague.

“We need to study the pouring out of the seventh vial. The powers of evil will not yield up the conflict without a struggle. But Providence has a part to act in the battle of Armageddon. When the earth is lighted with the glory of the angel of Revelation eighteen, the religious elements, good and evil, will awake from slumber, and the armies of the living God will take the field.” -7 Bible Commentary, 983/1:2.

6 - Two great opposing powers. On one side is God and the obedient; on the other, the devil and the rebellious. It is a battle of evil angels and wicked men vs. good angels and God’s people.

The plagues are poured out during this time.

“Two great opposing powers are revealed in the last great battle. On one side stands the Creator of heaven and earth. All on His side bear His signet. They are obedient to His commands. On the other side stands the prince of darkness, with those who have “chosen apostasy and rebellion.” -7 Bible Commentary, 982/2:5-983/1:O.

“Every form of evil is to spring into intense activity. Evil angels unite their powers with evil men, and as they have been in constant conflict and attained an experience in the best modes of deception and battle, and have been strengthening for centuries, they will not yield the last great final contest without a desperate struggle. All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought, and that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps..

“The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us, and the Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle. Solemn events before us are yet to transpire. Trumpet after trumpet is to be sounded, vial after vial poured out one after another upon the inhabitants of the earth. Scenes of stupendous interest are right upon us.”- 7 Bible Commentary, 982/2:3-4.

7 - It is earthly powers vs. God. The battle is fought on earth.

“A terrible conflict is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God Almighty. That which has been held in control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, preparing to step down from the throne and leave the world to the control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with hatred against those who serve Him, and soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield -the scene of the final contest and the final victory.” -My Life Today, 308:3.

8 - It is the forces of nature vs. God’s enemies. The battle begins when probation closes.

“At His own will God summons the forces of nature to overthrow the might of His enemies. . We are told of a greater battle to take place In the closing scenes of earth’s history, when ‘Jehovah hath opened His armory, and hath brought forth the weapons of His indignation’ . . The revelator describes the destruction that is to take place when the ‘great voice out of the temple of heaven’ announces, ‘It is done.’ “Patriarchs and Prophets, 509:3-4.

9 - The battles are real.

“The battles waging between the two armies are as real as those fought by the armies of this world, and on the issue of the spiritual conflict eternal destinies depend.” -Prophet and Kings, 176:O.

10 - The last great battle.

scene of the final contest and the final victory. Here, where for so long Satan has led men against God, rebellion is to be forever suppressed.” -Last Day Events, 250:1.

11 - The Captain directs the battle.

“All the world will be on one side or the other of the question. The battle of Armageddon will be fought. And that day must find none of us sleeping. Wide awake we must be, as wise virgins having oil in our vessels with our lamps. The power of the Holy Ghost must be upon us and the Captain of the Lord’s host will stand at the head of the angels of heaven to direct the battle.” 3 Selected Messages, 425:5-426:1.

12 - The King of kings leads His armies. Thus, (as Revelation 19 indicates) the battle of Armageddon continues on down to the second advent.

“He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and Lord of lords, leads forth the armies of heaven on white horses, clothed in fine linen, clean and white.” -7 Bible Commentary, 982/2:2.

“ ‘Faithful and True,’ ‘in righteousness He doth judge and make war.’ And ‘the armies which were in heaven’ (Revelation 19:11,14) follow Him.” -Great Controversy, 641:O [context: the second advent of Christ].

TWELVE RAPID EVENTS

Two brief pen pictures of these events will be found in Early Writings 34:1 and Early Writings 285:1286:O. Only when they provide additional information to that given below will they be quoted. Here are twelve major events and a number of lesser ones:

As an expression of reverence, the word, “Voice,” when applied to God, will be initial capitalized below.

1 - It is now that God interposes.

2 - God always chooses extremities.

“He [God] has always chosen extremities, when there seemed no possible chance for deliverance from Satan’s workings, for the manifestation of His power.” -5 Testimonies, 714:O.

THEN RAINBOWS AROUND THEM

1 - Deliverance begins by means of sudden darkness.

2 - The symbol of God’s covenant encircles His people.

“Then a rainbow, shining with the glory from the throne of God, spans the heavens and seems to encircle each praying company. The angry multitudes are suddenly arrested. Their mocking cries die away. The objects of their murderous rage are forgotten. With fearful forebodings they gaze upon the symbol of God’s covenant and long to be shielded from its overpowering brightness.” -Great Controversy, 636:O.

3 - Light will be in every dwelling of the faithful.

“While all the world is plunged in darkness, there will be light in every dwelling of the saints. They will catch the first light of His second appearing.” - Prophets and Kings, 720:2.

THE SHOUT OF VICTORY

1 - They see the bow and Christ. Their shout is the shout of victory over the beast and his image.

“By the people of God a voice, clear and melodious, is heard, saying, ‘Look up,’ and lifting their eyes to the heavens, they behold the bow of promise. The black, angry clouds that covered the firmament are parted, and like Stephen they look up steadfastly into heaven and see the glory of God and the Son of man seated upon His throne. In His divine form they discern the marks of His humiliation; and from His lips they hear the request presented before H is Father and the holy angels: ‘I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.’ John 17:24. Again a voice, musical and triumphant, is heard, saying: ‘They come! they come! holy, harmless, and undefiled. They have kept the word of My patience; they shall walk among the angels;’ and the pale, quivering lips of those who have held fast their faith utter a shout of victory.” -Great Controversy, 636:1.

THE SAINTS ARE GLORIFIED

1 - A glorious light shines about them.” Soon I heard the voice of God, which shook the heavens and the earth. There was a mighty earthquake. Buildings were shaken down on every side. I then heard a triumphant shout of victory, loud, musical, and clear. I looked upon the company, who, a short time before, were in such distress and bondage. Their captivity was turned. A glorious light shone upon them. How beautiful they then looked! All marks of care and weariness were gone, and health and beauty were seen in every countenance. Their enemies, the heathen around them, fell like dead men; they could not endure the light that shone upon the delivered, holy ones. This light and glory remained upon them, until Jesus was seen In the clouds of heaven, and the faithful, tried company were changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, from glory to glory.” -Early Writings, 272:3-273:O. [At the voice of God, a light rests upon them; at the Second Advent they are translated.]

2 - At the Voice of God they are glorified.

“At the voice of God they were glorified; now [at the Second Advent] they are made immortal and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air.”-Great Controversy, 645:1.

3 - Their faces are lit with the glory of God.

“The 144,000 triumphed. Their faces were lighted up with the glory of God.” -Early Writings, 37:O.

THE VOICE OF GOD SHAKES HEAVENS AND EARTH

1 - The Voice comes from one clear space of glory.

“In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying: ‘It is done.’ Revelation 16:17, that voice shakes the heavens and the earth.” -Great Controversy, 636:2-3.

“There was one clear place of settled glory, whence came the voice of God like many waters, shaking the heavens and the earth, There was a mighty earthquake,”-Early Writings, 285:1.

2 - The Voice comes from the region of Orion.

“Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other, The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could look up through the open space In Orion, whence came the voice of God. The Holy City will come down through that open space,”-Early Writings, 41:2.

3 - The sounding of the Voice brings despair to the wicked.

“After the people have heard the voice of God they are in despair and trouble such as never was since there was a nation,”-Maranatha, 279:5,

4 - It is the signal for some of the worst of the “judgments upon Babylon” to fall.

“(Rev 18:5-1.O; 18:11,3, 15-17 quoted) Such are the judgments that fall upon Babylon in the day of the visitation of God’s wrath. She has filled up the measure of her iniquity; her time has come; she is ripe for destruction,” -Great Controversy, 653:1-3,

Note: The Revelation 18 “judgments upon Babylon,” mentioned in the above passage, could be placed earlier in the outpouring of the plagues. But an awakening of the wicked is implied in the context, which does not fully occur until the Voice of God sounds. Also the next sentence (below) locates it at the sounding of the Voice.

5 - The Voice produces a terrible awakening, as the idols are destroyed.

“When the voice of God turns the captivity of His people, there is a terrible awakening of those who have lost all in the great conflict of life, While probation continued they were blinded by Satan’s deceptions, and they justified their course of sin. . Now they are stripped of all that made them great and are left destitute and defenseless. They look with terror upon the destruction of the idols, which they preferred before their Maker. . The gain of a lifetime is swept away in a moment. The rich bemoan the destruction of their grand houses, the scattering of their gold and sliver. But their lamentations are silenced by the fear that they themselves are to perish with their idols.

“The wicked are filled with regret not because of their sinful neglect of God and their fellow men but because God has conquered, they lament that the result is what it is; but they do not repent of their wickedness. They would leave no means untried to conquer if they could,” -Great Controversy, 654:1-2.

FORTY-FOUR SIGNS AND WONDERS OCCUR

It is generally considered that this earthquake is part of the seventh plague (the Rev 16:18 earthquake), which continues on until it concludes at the second advent and the death of the wicked. (The seventh seal earthquake may also apply to this time; Rev 8:5).

1 - The Voice of God produces the mighty earthquake.

“There was one clear place of settled glory, whence came the voice of God like many waters, shaking the heavens and the earth. There was a mighty earthquake.” -Early Writings, 285:1.

2 - Four signs rapidly occur.

“It is at midnight that God manifests His power for the deliverance of His people. [1] The sun appears, shining in its strength. Signs and wonders follow in quick succession. The wicked look with terror and amazement upon the scene, while the righteous behold with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance. [2] Everything in nature seems turned out of its course. [3] The streams ease to flow. [4] Dark, heavy clouds come up and clash against each other.” -Great Controversy, 636:2.

3 . Nineteen more signs accompany them.

“That voice [5] shakes the heavens and the earth. [6] There is a mighty earthquake, ‘such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.’ Revelation 16: 17-18. [7] The firmament appears to open and shut. [8] The glory from the throne of God seems flashing through. [9] The mountains shake like a reed in the wind, and [10] ragged rocks are scattered on every side. [11] There is a roar as of a coming tempest. [12] The sea is lashed into fury. There is heard [13] the shriek of a hurricane like the voice of demons upon a mission of destruction. [14] The whole earth heaves and swells like the waves of the sea. [15] Its surface is breaking up. [16] Its very foundations seem to be giving way. [17] Mountain chains are sinking. [18] Inhabited Islands disappear. [19] The seaports that have become like Sodom for wickedness are swallowed up by the angry waters. Babylon the great has come in remembrance before God, ‘to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.’ [20] Great hailstones, everyone ‘about the weight of a talent,’ are doing their work of destruction. Revelation 16:19, 21. [21] The proudest cities of the earth are laid low. [22] The lordly palaces, upon which the world’s great men have lavished their wealth in order to glorify themselves, are crumbling to ruin before their eyes. [23] Prison walls are rent asunder, and [24] God’s people, who have been held in bondage for their faith, are set free.” -Great Controversy, 636:3-637:O.

4 - Eight more signs take place.

“[25] The sky opened and shut and was in commotion. [26] The mountains shook like a reed in the wind and [27] cast out ragged rocks all around. The sea boiled like a pot and [28] cast out stones upon the land.”-Early Writings, 285:2.

“[29] The powers of heaven will be shaken at the voice of God. Then the sun, moon, and stars will be moved out of their places. They will not pass away, but be shaken by the voice of God.”-Early Writings, 41:1.

“Suddenly [in the middle of night] [30] the sun appeared, shining in his strength, and [31] the moon stood still. The wicked looked upon the scene with amazement, while the saints beheld with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance.”-Early Writings, 285:1.

5 - Ten more signs occur.

“In the day of the Lord, just before the coming of Christ, [32] God will send lightnings from Heaven in His wrath, [33] which will unite with fire In the earth. [34] The mountains will burn like a furnace, and will pour forth terrible streams of lava, [35] destroying gardens and fields, villages and cities; and as they pour their melted ore, [36] rocks and heated mud into the rivers, will cause them to boll like a pot, and [37] send forth massive rocks and scatter their broken fragments upon the land with indescribable violence, [38] Whole rivers will be dried up. The earth will be convulsed, and there will be dreadful eruptions and [39] earthquakes everywhere. God will [40] plague the wicked inhabitants of the earth until they are destroyed from off it.” -3 Spiritual Gifts, 82:3-83:O.

Note: From the Voice of God to -and including -the Second Coming is considered the seventh plague. By the conclusion of the Second Advent, no wicked people will be alive.

“The earth’s crust will be rent by the outbursts of the elements concealed in the bowels of the earth. These elements, once broken loose, [41] will sweep away the treasures of those who for years have been adding to their wealth by securing large possessions at starvation prices from those in their employ.”-Maranatha, 283:3.

“[42] The great general conflagration is but just ahead, when all this wasted labor of life will be swept away in a night and day,” -4 Testimonies,49:2.

“There will be [43] great destruction of human life. But as in the days of the great deluge Noah was preserved in the ark that God had prepared for him, so in these days of destruction and calamity, God will be the refuge of His believing ones. Through the psalmist He declares, ‘Because thou has made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. ‘ ‘For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion, “ Then shall we not make the Lord our surety and our defense?”-Maranatha, 283:5.

“Earthquakes in various places have been felt, but these disturbances have been very limited. . Terrible shocks will come upon the earth, and [44] the lordly palaces erected at great expense will certainly become heaps pf ruins.” -3 Selected Messages, 391:5.

THE SPECIAL RESURRECTION

1 - Two classes arise in this special resurrection.

“Graves are opened, and many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth, , awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.’ Daniel 12:2. All who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept His law. ‘They also which pierced Him’ (Revelation 1:7), those that mocked and derided Christ’s dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of His truth and His people, are raised to behold Him in His glory and to see the honor placed upon the loyal and obedient.” -Great Controversy, 697:1.

2 - The earthquake opens the graves.

“There was a mighty earthquake. The graves were opened, and those who had died In faith under the third angel’s message, keeping the Sabbath, came forth from their dusty beds, glorified, to hear the covenant of peace that God was to make with those who had kept His law,” Early Writings, 285:1.

THE DOOM OF THE WICKED PREDICTED

1 - Amid thunder and lightning, a voice declares the doom of the wicked.

“Thick clouds still cover the sky; yet the sun now and then breaks through, appearing like the avenging eye of Jehovah. Fierce lightenings leap from the heavens, enveloping the earth in a sheet of flame. Above the terrific roar of thunder, voices, mysterious and awful, declare the doom of the wicked. The words spoken are not comprehended by all; but they are distinctly understood by the false teachers. Those who a little before were so reckless, so boastful and defiant, so exultant in their cruelty to God’s commandment-keeping people, are now overwhelmed with consternation and shuddering in fear. Their wails are heard above the sound of the elements. Demons acknowledge the deity of Christ and tremble before His power, while men are supplicating for mercy and grovelling in abject terror.

“Said the prophets or old, as they beheld in holy vision the day of God: ‘Howl ye; for the day of the Lord is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty.’ Isaiah 13:6. ‘Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty. The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon everyone that is proud and lofty, and upon everyone that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low.’ ‘In that day a man shall cast the idols of his silver, and the idols of his gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; to go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty, when He arises to shake terribly the earth.’ “ -Great Controversy, 697:2-698:1.

THEY SING PRAISES TO GOD

1 - A bright star is seen, and the faces of the righteous are radiant as they sing praises; the clouds sweep back and the sky is filled with stars.

“Through a rift in the clouds there beams a star whose brilliancy is increased fourfold in contrast with the darkness. It speaks hope and joy to the faithful, but severity and wrath to the transgressors of God’s law. Those who have sacrificed all for Christ are now secure, hidden as in the secret of the Lord’s pavilion.

They have been tested, and before the world and the despisers of truth they have evinced their fidelity to Him who died for them. A marvelous change has come over those who have held fast their integrity in the very face of death. They have been suddenly delivered from the dark and terrible tyranny of men transformed to demons. Their faces, so lately pale, anxious, and haggard, are now aglow with wonder, faith, and love. Their voices rise in triumphant song: ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.’ Psalm 46:1-3.

“While these words of holy trust ascend to God, the clouds sweep back, and the starry heavens are seen, unspeakably glorious in contrast with the black and angry firmament on either side. The glory of the celestial city streams from the gates ajar.”-Great Controversy, 698:2-699:1.

2 - “We are delivered. It is the Voice of God! “

“Satan’s host and wicked men will surround them and exult over them because there will seem to be no way of escape for them. But In the midst of their revelry and triumph there is heard peal upon peal of the loudest thunder. The heavens have gathered blackness, and are only illuminated by the blazing light and terrible glory from heaven, as God utters His voice from His holy habitation.‘

“The foundations of the earth shake, buildings totter and fall with a terrible crash. The sea boils like a pot and the whole earth is in terrible commotion. The captivity of the righteous is turned, and with sweet and solemn whisperings they say to one another: ‘We are delivered. It is the voice of God.’ “-1 Testimonies, 354:O-1.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS ARE OPENED

1 - Against the sky, a Hand is seen holding the Ten Commandments. The folded tablets are then opened to the view of all.

“Then there appears against the sky a hand holding two tables of stone folded together. Says the prophet: ‘The heavens shall declare His righteousness: for God is judge Himself.’ Psalm 50:6. That holy law, God’s righteousness, that amid thunder and flame was proclaimed from Sinai as the guide of life, is now revealed to men as the rule of judgment. The hand opens the tables, and there are seen the precepts of the Decalogue, traced as with a pen of fire. The words are so plain that all can read them. Memory is aroused, the darkness of superstition and heresy is swept from every mind, and God’s ten words, brief, comprehensive, and authoritative, are presented to the view of all the inhabitants of the earth.”-Great Controversy, 639:1.

2 -It Is the original tables of stone which are shown to the world.

“In the temple (in heaven] will be seen the ark of the testament in which were placed the two tables of stone, on which are written God’s law. These tables of stone will be brought forth from their hiding place, and on them will be seen the Ten Commandments engraved by the finger of God. These tables of stone now lying in the ark of the testament will be a convincing testimony to the truth and binding claims of God’s law.” -7 Bible Commentary, 972/1:3/2:O.

“Sacrilegious minds and hearts have thought they were mighty enough to change the times and laws of Jehovah; but, safe In the archives of heaven, In the ark of God, are the original commandments, written upon the two tables of stone. No potentate of earth has power to draw forth those tables from their sacred hiding place beneath the mercy seat.” -7 Bible Commentary, 972/2:1.

THE HORROR OF THE WICKED

1 - The sounding of the Voice has brought despair to the wicked.

“After the people have heard the voice of God they are in despair and trouble such as never was since there was a nation.”-Maranatha, 279:5.

2 - Their horror is the discovery of the fact that the Ten Commandments were never abolished. They find they have been fighting against God.

“It is impossible to describe the horror and despair of those who have trampled upon God’s holy requirements. The Lord gave them His law; they might have compared their characters with it and learned their defects while there was yet opportunity for repentance and reform; but In order to secure the favor of the world, they set aside its precepts and taught others to transgress. They have endeavored to compel God’s people to profane His Sabbath. Now they are condemned by that law which they have despised. With awful distinctness they see that they are without excuse. They chose whom they would serve and worship. ‘Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serves God and him that serves Him not.’ Malachi 3:18.

“The enemies of God’s law, from the ministers down to the least among them, have a new conception of truth and duty. Too late they see that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is the seal of the living God. Too late they see the true nature of their spurious Sabbath and the sandy foundation upon which they have been building. They find that they have been fighting against God. Religious teachers have led souls to perdition while professing to guide them to the gates of Paradise. Not until the day of final accounts will it be known how great is the responsibility of men in holy office and how terrible are the results of their unfaithfulness. Only in eternity can we rightly estimate the loss of a single soul. Fearful will be the doom of him to whom God shall say: Depart, thou wicked servant.” -Great Controversy. 639:2 - 640:1.

3 - Former Sabbath keepers are also filled with anguish.

“Then I was shown a company who were howling in agony. On their garments was written in large characters, ‘Thou art weighed in the balance, and found wanting.’ I asked who this company were. The angel said, ‘These are they who have once kept the Sabbath and have given it up.’ I heard them cry with a loud voice, ‘We have believed in Thy coming, and taught it with energy’. And while they were speaking, their eyes would fall upon their garments and see the writing, and then they would wail aloud. I saw that they had drunk of the deep waters, and fouled the residue with their feet -trodden the Sabbath underfoot - and that was why they were weighed in the balance and found wanting.” Early Writings, 37:O.

4 - A lengthy description of the insights the wicked obtain at this time is given in Great Controversy, page 654:1-656:1. The most important are quoted immediately below:

5 - There is a terrible awakening.

“When the voice of God turns the captivity of His people, there is a terrible awakening of those who have lost all in the great conflict of life. While probation continued they were blinded by Satan’s deceptions, and they justified their course of sin.”-Great Controversy, 654:1.

6 - The wicked regret having lost in their rebellion against God.

“The wicked are filled with regret, not because of their sinful neglect of God and their fellow men, but because God has conquered. They lament that the result is what it is; but they do not repent of their wickedness. They would leave no means untried to conquer if they could.

“The world see the very class whom they have mocked and derided, and desired to exterminate, pass unharmed through pestilence, tempest, and earthquake. He who is to the transgressors of His law a devouring fire, is to His people a safe pavilion.” -Great Controversy, 654:2-3.

7 - The ministers awaken also.

“The minister who has sacrificed truth to gain the favor of men now discerns the character and influence of his teachings. It is apparent that the omniscient eye was following him as he stood in the desk, as he walked the streets, as he mingled with men in the various scenes of life. Every emotion of the soul, every line written, every word uttered, every act that led men to rest in a refuge of falsehood, has been scattering seed; and now, in the wretched, lost souls around him, he beholds the harvest.”- Great Controversy, 654:4655:O.

8 - All recognize that they have rebelled against the holy law of their Creator.

“Ministers and people see that they have not sustained the right relation to God. They see that they have rebelled against the Author of all just and righteous law. The setting aside of the divine precepts gave rise to thousands of springs of evil, discord, hatred, iniquity, until the earth became one vast field of strife, one sink of corruption.” -Great Controversy, 655:3.

9 - The wicked fall at the feet of the righteous.

“Men whom the world has worshiped for their talents and eloquence now see these things- in their true light. They realize what they have forfeited by transgression, and they fall at the feet of those whose fidelity they have despised and derided, and confess that God has loved them.”-Great Controversy, 655:3.

10 - The wicked are no longer able to overpower the faithful.

“At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us who could wash one another’s feet and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet.”- Early Writings, 15:1.

11 - The religious leaders suffer under the wrath of God and the revilings of lost souls.

“Many of the wicked were greatly enraged as they suffered the effects of the plagues. It was a scene of fearful agony. Parents were bitterly reproaching their children, and children their parents, brothers their sisters, and sister their brothers. Loud, wailing cries were heard in every direction, ‘It was you who kept me from receiving the truth which would have saved me from this awful hour.’ The people turned upon their ministers with bitter hate and reproached them, saying, ‘You have not warned us. You told us that all the world was to be converted, and cried, Peace, peace, to quiet every fear that was aroused. You have not told us of this hour; and those who warned us of it you declared to be fanatics and evil men, who would ruin us.’ But I saw that the ministers did not escape the wrath of God. Their suffering was tenfold greater than that of their people.”-Early Writings, 282:1.

12 - Lost church members are extremely angry with their pastors.

“Church members who have seen the light and been convicted, but who have trusted the salvation of their souls to the minister, will learn in the day of God that no other soul can pay the ransom for their transgression. A terrible cry will be raised. ‘I am lost, eternally lost.’ Men will feel as though they could rend in pieces the ministers who have preached falsehoods and condemned the truth.” -4 Bible Commentary, 1157/1:2.

13 - The wicked accuse one another, and especially their ministers. Some of the wicked are slain by one another.

“The people see that they have been deluded. They accuse one another of having led them to destruction; but all unite in heaping their bitterest condemnation upon the ministers.

Unfaithful pastors have prophesied smooth things; they have led their hearers to make void the law of God and to persecute those who would keep it holy. Now, in their despair, these teachers confess before the world their work of deception. The multitudes are filled with fury. ‘We are lost!’ they cry, ‘and you are the cause of our ruin;’ and they turn upon the false shepherds. The very ones that once admired them most will pronounce the most dreadful curses upon them. The very hands that once crowned them with laurels will be raised for their destruction. The swords which were to slay God’s people are now employed to destroy their enemies. Everywhere there is strife and bloodshed.” -Great Controversy, 655:4-656:O.

“God’s Word is made of none effect by false shepherds. . Their work will soon react upon themselves. Then will be witnessed the scenes described in Revelation 18 when the judgments of God shall fall upon mystical Babylon.”-Last Day Events, 248:2.

THE DAY AND HOUR OF CHRIST’S COMING

1 - The Voice of God gives the day and hour of Christ’s second advent, and confirms the eternal covenant with His people.

“The voice of God is heard from heaven, declaring the day and hour of Jesus’ coming, and delivering the everlasting covenant to His people. Like peals of loudest thunder His words roll through the earth. The Israel of God stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward. Their countenances are lighted up with His glory, and shine as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai.” -Great Controversy, 640:2.

2 - At the end of each sentence, the saints shout.

“As God spoke the day and the hour of Jesus’ coming and delivered the everlasting covenant to His people, He spoke one sentence, and then paused, while the words were rolling through the earth. The Israel of God stood with their eyes fixed upward, listening to the words as they came from the mouth of Jehovah, and rolled through the earth like peals of loudest thunder. It was awfully solemn. And at the end of every sentence the saints shouted, ‘Glory! Alleluia!’ Their countenances were lighted up with the glory of God; and they shone with the glory, as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked could not look on them for the glory.”-Early Writings, 34:1; 285:2-286:O.

3 - The living saints at this time are 144,000 in number.

“Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus’ coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses’ did when he came down from Mount Sinai.” -Early Writings, 15:O.

4 - Heard, but not remembered after the vision.

“I have not the slightest knowledge as to the time spoken by the voice of God. I heard the hour proclaimed, but had no remembrance of that hour after I came out of vision. Scenes of such thrilling, solemn interest passed before me as no language is adequate to describe. It was all a living reality to me, for close upon this scene appeared the great white cloud, upon which was seated the Son of man.”- 1 Selected Messages, 76:O.

THE FAITHFUL ARE GIVEN THE SABBATH

1 - When the blessing is given, there is a shout of victory.

“And when the blessing is pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy, there is a mighty shout of victory.” -Great Controversy, 640:2.

“When the never-ending blessing was pronounced on those who had honored God in keeping His Sabbath holy, there was a mighty shout of victory over the beast and over his Image.” Early Writings, 34:1; 286:O.

THE JOURNEY TO EARTH

Backtracking a little: At the close of the investigative judgment (when each person in the world had made his decision, received either the mark or the seal, and probation for mankind had concluded); Jesus threw down the censer, declared “It is done,” and went to the entrance of that gigantic structure (the heavenly Sanctuary; and it is a most marvelous building-see Great Controversy, page 414:2). There He put off His priestly robes, and commanded His angels to begin pouring out the plagues on the wicked.

Then He began His journey to the earth.

1 - The trip to our world begins.

“And I saw a flaming cloud come where Jesus stood. Then Jesus. . took His place on the cloud which carried Him to the East, where it first appeared to the saints on earth-a small black cloud which was the sign of the Son of man.” Maranatha, 287:7 (“To the Little Remnant Scattered Abroad,” April 6, 1846 broadside.).

2 - All the angels in heaven accompany Him.” All heaven will be emptied of the angels, while the waiting saints will be looking for Him and gazing into heaven, as were the men of Galilee when He ascended from the Mount of Olivet. Then only those who are holy, those who have followed fully the meek Pattern, will with rapturous joy exclaim as they behold Him, ‘Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.’ “-Early Writings, 110:1.

3 - On the journey, Christ and His angels pass through the region of Orion.

“Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other. The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could look up through the open space in Orion, whence came the Voice of God. The Holy City will come down through that open space.”-Early Writings, 41:2.

Note: The present writer restricts this location to “the region of Orion,” since we are nowhere told in the inspired writings that’ ‘the open space in Orion” is the Great Nebula in Orion, or a portion of it. Therefore we cannot with certainty equate the “open space” with the Orion Nebula.

According to Early Writings 41, the Voice of God sounds from the area of this constellation, and at the third advent the City of God will come down through that part of the sky. But that is the third advent, not the second. It is likely that, at His second advent, Christ will also return through that area-but we are not spe-cifically told that in this or any other passage. Nor are we told what part of the Orion constellation is here referred to (Orion is one of the largest constellations in the sky).

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

ARMAGEDDON

Satan Is Now Marshalling His Armies For the Last Great Struggle.- “We have a short time in which to accomplish the work that is essential. Let us earnestly prepare for the conflict that is before us, for Satan’s armies are marshalling for the last great struggle.

Satan Is Seeking to Bring in Heresies; the Rejecters of Warnings Will be Ensnared.- “Satan is rallying his forces and seeking to bring in heresies to confuse the minds of those who have not been trained to

understand the leading of the Holy Spirit. A delusive net is being prepared for them and those who have been warned again and again, but have not educated themselves to understand the warnings, will surely be taken in Satan’s snares.”-Letter 864, 1908, pp. 1-2. (To S. N. Haskell, December 17, 1908).

Satan is Drilling His Army. - “The end is near, and every year Satan is drilling his army to develop strong parties to be ready against the battle of the last great conflict.”-Manuscript 134, 1908, p. 3. (“Arbitrary Control, “ cir. 1908).

THE VOICE OF GOD

The Scattered Ones in Dens and Caverns Are Made Glad at the Voice of God.-”Before the glory of Him who is to reign, the mountains will tremble and bow, the rocks will be moved out of their places, for once more will the Lord shake, not alone the earth, but the heavens also. The scattered ones, who have fled for their lives to the rocks, the dens, the caverns of the earth, because of the fury of the oppressor, will be made glad at the voice of God..

As Christ Strengthened John, So Will He Strengthen His Terror-stricken Saints at His Second Coming.-“The child of God will be terror-stricken at the first sight of the majesty of Jesus Christ. He feels that he cannot live in His holy presence. But the word comes to him, as to John, ‘Fear not.’ Jesus laid His right hand upon John. He raised him up from his prostrate position. So will He do unto His loyal, trusting ones, for there are greater revelations of the glory of God to be given them..

Effects of the Second Coming on the Lost. - “There is also to be revelation to the transgressors of the law of Jehovah-they who made void the law of God, who have taken their stand on the side of him who thought to change times and laws. From the terror-stricken myriads come the cry, ‘The great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand.’ (Revelation 6:17).”Manuscript 56, 1886, pp. 5-7. (“Traveling in Switzerland, “ May 21, 1886).

The Covenant Will be Brought Forth. “When every case is decided in the courts of heaven, this covenant, [the ten commandments) will be brought forth, plainly written with the finger of God. The world will be arraigned before the bar of Infinite Justice to receive sentence-a life measuring with the life of God for obedience, and death for transgression.”-Manuscript 82, 1899, p. 10. (“In the Master’s Service, “ May 21, 1899).

The Heaviest Judgments Will Fall on the False Shepherds. - “And upon those who have taken upon them the work of shepherds of the flock will be visited the heaviest judgments, because they have presented to the people fables instead of truth. Children will rise up and curse their parents. Church members, who have seen the light and [have) been convicted, but who have trusted the salvation of their souls to the minister, will learn in the day of God that no other soul can pay the ransom for their transgression. A terrible cry will be raised, ‘I am lost, eternally lost. .’

The Ire of the Lost Against Their False Shepherds.- “Men will feel as though they could rend in pieces the ministers who have preached falsehoods and condemned the truth. The pure truth for this time requires a reformation in the life, but they separated themselves from the love of the truth, and of them it can be said, ‘O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself’ (Hosea 13:9). The Lord sends a message to the people, ‘Set the trumpet to thy mouth. He shall come as an eagle against the house of the Lord, because they have transgressed My covenant, and trespassed against My law’ (Hosea 8:1).”-Letter 30, 1900, pp. 5-6. (To “Brother and Sister Hickox,” February 25, 1900). [See also: TBC 167.]

Revelation 18:1-3 Will be Fulfilled When God Arises to Shake Terribly the Earth. “What terrible scenes will take place when the Lord shall arise to shake terribly the earth. Then the words of Revelation 18:1-3 [the announcement that Babylon is fallen] will be fulfilled. The whole of the eighteenth chapter of revelation is a warning of what is coming on the earth. But I have no light in particular in regard to what is coming on New York, only that I know that one day the great buildings there will be thrown down by the turning and overturning of God’s power. From the light given me, I know that destruction is in the world. One word from the Lord, one touch of His mighty power, and those massive structures will fall. Scenes will take place, the fearfulness of which we cannot imagine.” -Letter 176, 1903, pp. 4-5. (To H. W. Kellogg, August 9, 1903). [See also: Evangelism 387-8; PM 280-1.}

God Will Protect His Believing Ones During the Convulsions of Nature Preceding the Advent.- “Before the Son of man appears in the clouds of heaven, everything in nature will be convulsed. Lightning from heaven, uniting with fire in the earth, will cause the mountains to burn like a furnace, and pour out their floods of lava over villages and cities. Molten masses of rock [will] cause the water to boil, and they will send forth rocks and earth. There will be mighty earthquakes and great destruction of human life. But as in the days of the great deluge, Noah was preserved in the ark that God had prepared for Him, so in these last days of destruction a calamity, God will be the refuge of His believing ones.”- Letter 248, 1907, pp. 2-4. (To J. E. White and wife, August 16, 1907). [See also: IMCP 22-3.}

Satan Wants to Revive Slavery.-”I am instructed to say to our people throughout the cities of the South, Let everything be done under the direction of the Lord. The work is nearing its close. We are nearer the end than when we first believed. Satan is doing his best to block. the progress of the message. He is putting forth efforts to bring about the enactment of a Sunday law that will result in slavery in the Southern field and will close the door to the observance of the true Sabbath; which God has given to men to keep holy. The law, which He came down from heaven to Mt. Sinai to proclaim, is to be observed by all who would identify themselves with the people of God.”-Letter 6, 1909, p. 2. (To J. E. White, January 1, 1909).

TEN COMMANDMENTS OPENED

In the Day of Judgment the Tables of God’s Law Will Condemn the Lost.” Ministers have taught the people that the law of God is not binding. But God certainly does not say so, and in the day of judgment that law, written with the finger of God on tables of stone, will condemn all impenitent transgressors.” - Manuscript 33, 1900. pp. 5, 6, 8-10, 18. (“Unfaithful Shepherds, “ June 25, 1900). [See also: CG 513.}

These Tables Are in Heaven. - “There is a sanctuary, and in that sanctuary is the ark, and in the ark are the tables of stone, on which is written the law spoken from Sinai amidst scenes of awful grandeur. These tables of stone are in the heavens, and they will be brought forth in that day when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, and men shall be judged according to the things written in the books. They will be judged by the law written by the finger of God, and given to Moses to be deposited in the ark. A record is kept of the deeds of all men, and according to his works will every man receive sentence, whether they be good, or whether they be evil.” -Manuscript 20, 1906, pp. 8-9. (“Preach the Word,” February 7, 1906). [See also: Evangelism 616-17; PM 224-5.]

They Are to be Brought Forth When Sentence Is Pronounced.- “In my books the truth is stated, barricaded by a ‘Thus said the Lord.’ The Holy Spirit traced these truths upon my heart and mind as indelibly as the law was traced by the finger of God upon the tables of stone, which are now in the ark, to be brought forth in that great day when sentence is pronounced against every evil, seducing science produced by the father of lies.” -Letter 90, 1906, p. 6. (To The Brethren Assembled in Council at Graysville, Tennessee, March 6, 1906).

THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST

In this study, we will view events at the time of the Second Advent, as they relate primarily to the redeemed but also to the wicked. These are the preascension events. They occur at the time of Christ’s second coming, before Jesus and the redeemed begin their journey to heaven.

In the next study, we will view (1) the post-ascension events on earth, which Is the death of the living wicked, and the binding of Satan to this planet for a thousand years; and (2) the post-ascension events of the redeemed; which includes their journey to heaven, their coronation and entrance Into the Holy City, and the sentencing judgment.

THE JUBILEE BEGINS

1 - The commencement of the jubilee.

“Then commenced the Jubilee, when the land should rest.” -Early Writings, 85:1 (286:1).

In ancient Israel, every seventh year and fiftieth year were rest years for the land. Because the seventh-day Sabbath has been violated for 6,000 years, it is quite appropriate that the land will be able to rest for the seventh thousand years. As Jerusalem was destroyed because the people refused to keep the Sabbath (Jer 17:2127), so the world will be destroyed because its inhabitants refused to keep the Sabbath. (This emphasis on Sabbath-keeping is due to the fact that the Sabbath cannot be properly observed without obeying God fully in every other way.)

At last the land and people will have rest. -But at what a cost. The world is shattered and the wicked are dead.

Some try to date the Second Advent by the jubilee cycle, but this cannot be done. Why? Three good reasons: (1) No one knows the exact date the jubilee cycle should begin with. (2) God’s Inspired Word has told us several times that no man will know the date of the second coming (2SM 113; Great Controversy, page 456-457; DA 632-633; FE 335; 1T 409; Testimonies To Ministers, page 55,61; 1SM 75-76; Early Writings

22; 1 T 72-73) until it is declared in the skies at the sounding of the Voice of God. (3) There is even a question whether the Jubilee Is a 49 or 50-year cycle.

THE SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN

1 - Christ returns in a cloud.

“Soon there appears in the east a small black cloud, about half the size of a man’s hand. It is the cloud which surrounds the Savior and which seems in the distance to be shrouded in darkness. The people of God know this to be the sign of the Son of man. In solemn silence they gaze upon it as it draws nearer the earth, becoming lighter and more glorious, until it is a great white cloud, its base a glory like consuming fire, and above it the rainbow of the covenant.” Great Controversy, 640:3-641:O.

“Soon our eyes were drawn to the east, for a small black cloud had appeared, about half as large as a man’s hand, which we all knew was the sign of the Son of man. We all in solemn silence gazed on the cloud as it drew nearer and became lighter, glorious, and still more glorious, till It was a great white cloud. The bottom appeared like fire; a rainbow was over the cloud, while around it were ten thousand angels, singing a most lovely song; and upon it sat the Son of man.”-Early Writings, 15:2-16:O.

“At first we did not see Jesus on the cloud, but as it drew near the earth we could behold His lovely person. This cloud, when it first appeared, was the sign of the Son of man in heaven.”-Early Writings, 35:1.

“The clouds of heaven will clash, and there will be darkness. Then that voice comes from heaven and the clouds begin to roll back like a scroll, and there is the bright, clear sign of the Son of man. The children of God know what that cloud means.” -Maranatha, 279:5.

The faithful see it and hear the sound of music as it nears.

“The clouds begin to roll back like a scroll and there is the bright, clear sign of the Son of man. The children of God know what that cloud means. The sound of music is heard, and as it nears, the graves are opened and the dead are raised.”-9 Manuscript Releases, 251:3-252:1.

THE TIMING OF THE SECOND ADVENT

It is impossible for us to know when Christ will return, until He Himself tells us at the sounding of the Voice of God, just prior to that event. No man has a true message of time-setting In regard to the second coming of Christ (2SM 113), and to try to do so pleases Satan (Great Controversy, page 457). We have been warned against doing this (DA 632-633; FE 335; Great Controversy, page 456-457; 1T 409; Testimonies To Ministers, page 55, 61), and we should beware of doing it (Testimonies To Ministers, page 55, 61; 1 SM 75-76). When men do it, they only weaken the faith of God’s people (Early Writings 22; 1T 72-73).

JESUS RETURNS FOR HIS PEOPLE

1 - Christ, veiled in humanity, departed from this world.

“Christ had ascended to heaven in the form of humanity. The disciples had beheld the cloud receive Him. The same Jesus who had walked and talked and prayed With them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; and who had that very day toiled with them up the ascent of Olivet,-the same Jesus had now gone to share His Father’s throne. And the angels had assured them that the very One whom they had seen go up into heaven, would come again even as He had ascended.” -Desire of Ages, 832:2.

2 - Christ, glorified in humanity, will return again.

“The glory of Christ’s humanity did not appear when He was upon the earth. He was regarded as a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. We hid as it were our faces from Him. But He was pursuing the path [which] the plan of God had devised. That same humanity now appears as He descends from heaven, robed in glory, triumphant, exalted.” -In Heavenly Places, 358:3.

3 - The appearance of Christ as He returns.

“Upon It sat the Son of man. His hair was white and curly and lay on His shoulders; and upon His head were many crowns. His feet had the appearance of fire; in His right hand was a sharp sickle; in His left, a silver trumpet.” -Early Writings, 16:O.

4 - He will return amid great glory.

“Christ will come In His own glory, in the glory of His Father, and in the glory of the holy angels. Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of angels, the beautiful, triumphant sons of God, possessing surpassing loveliness and glory, will escort Him on His way. In the place of a crown of thorns, He will wear a crown of glory-a crown within a crown.

In the place of that old purple robe, He will be clothed In a garment of whitest white, ‘so as no fuller on earth can white’ (Mark 9:3) it. And on His vesture and on His thigh a name will be written, ‘King of kings, and Lord of lords.’ “ -Our High Calling, 367:2.

5 - Millions of angels accompany Him, and the glory fills the sky.

“Jesus rides forth as a mighty conqueror. Not now a ‘Man of Sorrows,’ to drink the bitter cup of shame and woe, He comes, victor in heaven and earth, to judge the living and the dead. ‘Faithful and True,’ ‘in righteousness He doth judge and make war.’ And ‘the armies which were in heaven’ (Revelation 19:11, 14) follow Him. With anthems of celestial melody the holy angels, a vast, unnumbered throng, attend Him on His way. The firmament seems filled with radiant forms-’ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands.’ No human pen can portray the scene; no mortal mind is adequate to conceive its splendor. ‘His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise. And His brightness was as the light.’“ -Great Controversy, 641:O.

EVERY EYE SHALL SEE HIM

1 - Every person in the world sees Him return.

“As the living cloud comes still nearer, every eye beholds the Prince of life. No crown of thorns now mars that sacred head; but a diadem of glory rests on His holy brow. His countenance outshines the dazzling brightness of the noonday sun. ‘And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, King of kings, and Lord of lords.’ “-Great Controversy, 641:O.

THE DISPLAY OF OVERMASTERING POWER

1 - The wicked are terrified, and the saints are apprehensive. But Jesus reassures His own.

“Before His presence ‘all faces are turned into paleness;’ upon the rejecters of God’s mercy falls the terror of eternal despair. ‘The heart melteth, and the knees smite together, . . and the faces of them all gather blackness.’ Jeremiah 30:6; Nahum 2:10. The righteous cry with trembling: ‘Who shall be able to stand?’ The angels’ song Is hushed, and there is a period of awful silence. Then the voice of Jesus is heard, saying: ‘My grace is sufficient for you.’ The faces of the righteous are lighted up, and joy fills every heart. And the angels strike a note higher and sing again as they draw still nearer to the earth.” -Great Controversy, 641:1.

THE HEAVENS AND EARTH ARE SHAKEN

1 - His arrival in the skies shakes the earth to its foundations.

“The King of kings descends upon the cloud, wrapped in flaming fire. The heavens are rolled together as a scroll, the earth trembles before Him, and every mountain and island is moved out of its place. ‘Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before Him, and it shall be very tempestuous around about Him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that He may judge His people.’ “-Great Controversy, 641:2-642:O.

Note: There is a shaking of the earth at the Voice of God (before the second advent), and a second one at the second advent. (Compare Great Controversy, 637:O and 642:O.)

THE WICKED FLEE INTO CAVES

1 - The flight into the caves as they cry to the rocks to fall on them.

“And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every freeman, hid themselves In the dens and In the rocks of the mountains; and said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of Him that sits on the throne, arid from the wrath of the Lamb: for the great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?’ “-Great Controversy, 642:1.

2 - They call to their gods.

“When the earth is reeling to and fro like a drunkard, when the heavens are shaking and the great day of the Lord has come, who shall be able to stand? One object they behold in trembling agony from which they will try In vain to escape. ‘Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him’ (Revelation 1:7). The unsaved utter wild imprecations to dumb nature-their god: ‘Mountains and rocks, fall on us, and hide us from the face of Him that sits on the throne’ (Revelation 6:16).”-That I May Know Him, 956:1.

3 - Some of the wicked flee into caves recently vacated by the faithful.

“The hidden ones have been scattered because of man’s enmity against the law of Jehovah. They have been oppressed by all the powers of the earth. They have been scattered in the dens and caves of the earth

through the violence of their adversaries, because they are true and obedient to Jehovah’s laws. But deliverance comes to the people of God. To their enemies God will show Himself a God ofjust retribution.

“From the dens and the caves of the earth, that have been the secret hiding places of God’s people, they are called forth as His witnesses, true and faithful.

“The people who have braved out their rebellion will fulfill the description given In Revelation 6:15-17. In these very caves and dens they find the very statement of truth in the letters and in the publications as witness against them. The shepherds who lead the sheep in false paths will hear the charge made against them, ‘It was you who made light of truth. It was you who told us that God’s law was abrogated, that it was a yoke of bondage. It was you who voiced the false doctrines when I was convicted that these Seventh-day Adventists had the truth.

The blood of our souls is upon your priestly garments. . Now will you pay the ransom for my soul? . . What shall we do who listened to your garbling of the Scriptures and your turning into a lie the truth which If obeyed would have saved us?’

“When Christ comes to take vengeance on those who have educated and trained the people to trample on God’s Sabbath, to tear down His memorial, and tread down with their feet the feed of His pastures, lamentations will be in vain. Those who trusted in the false shepherds had the word of God to search for themselves, and they find that God will judge every man who has had the truth and turned from the light because it involved self-denial and the cross. Rocks and mountains cannot screen them from the indig-nation of Him that sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb.”-Maranatha, 290:14.

THE REALITY OF THE SITUATION

1 - The jests and lies are replaced by praying and weeping.

“The derisive jests have ceased. Lying lips are hushed into silence. The clash of arms, the tumult of battle, ‘with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood’ (Isaiah 9:5), is stilled. Naught now is heard but the voice of prayer and the sound of weeping and lamentation. The cry bursts forth from lips so lately scoffing: ‘The great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?’ The wicked pray to be burled beneath the rocks of the mountains rather than meet the face of Him whom they have despised and rejected.” -Great Controversy, 642:2.

2 - That Voice they know so well, for they have heard it for years.

“That voice which penetrates the ear of the dead, they know. How often have its plaintive, tender tones called them to repentance. How often has it been heard in the touching entreaties of a friend, a brother, a Redeemer. To the rejecters of His grace no other could be so full of condemnation, so burdened with denunciation, as that voice which has so long pleaded. . That voice awakens memories which they would fain blot out-warnings despised, invitations refused, privileges slighted.” “-Great Controversy, 642:3.

THOSE ALSO WHO PIERCED HIM

1 - What a day that will be.

“What a day that will be, when those who rejected Christ will look upon Him whom their sins have pierced.” -Maranatha, 292:9.

2 - Those who mocked Him will see Him return.

“There are those who mocked Christ in His humiliation. With thrilling power come to their minds the Sufferer’s words, when, adjured by the high priest, He solemnly declared: ‘Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.’ Matthew 26:64. Now they

behold Him In His glory, and they are yet to see Him sitting on the right hand of power [at His third advent).” -Great Controversy, 643:1.

3 - Those who robed, crowned, smote, spate, nailed, and pierced Him will also see His return in glory.

“Those who derided His claim to be the Son of God are speechless now. There is the haughty Herod who jeered at His royal title and bade the mocking soldiers crown Him king. There are the very men who with impious hands placed upon His form the purple robe, upon His sacred brow the thorny crown, and in His unresisting hand the mimic sceptre, and bowed before Him in blasphemous mockery. The men who smote and spit upon the Prince of life now turn from His piercing gaze and seek to flee from the overpowering glory of His presence. Those who drove the nails through His hands and feet, the soldier who pierced His side, behold these marks with terror and remorse. . And now there rises a cry of mortal agony. Louder than the shout, ‘Crucify Him, crucify Him,’ which rang through the streets of Jerusalem, swells the awful, despairing wail, ‘He is the Son of God! He is the true Messiah!’ “ -Great Controversy, 643:2-644:O.

4 - They will look upon Him and wall.

“Those who have acted the most prominent part in the rejection and crucifixion of Christ come forth to see Him as He is, and those who have rejected Christ come up and see the saints glorified, and it is at that time that the saints are changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. The very ones who placed upon Him the purple robe and put the crown of thorns upon His brow, and those who put the nails through His hands and feet, look upon Him and bewail.” -9 Manuscript Releases, 252:1 (1886).

5 - They will call for the rocks to fall on them.

“They remember how His love was slighted and His compassion abused. They think of how Barabbas, a murderer and a robber, was chosen in His stead, how Jesus was crowned with thorns and scourged and crucified, how in the hours of His agony on the cross the priests and rulers taunted Him, saying, ‘Let Him come down from the cross, and we will believe Him.

He saved others, Himself He cannot save.’ All the insult and despite offered to Christ, all the suffering caused to His disciples, will be as fresh in their recollection as when the satanic deeds were done.

“The voice which they heard so often in entreaty and persuasion will again sound in their ears. Every tone of gracious solicitation will vibrate as distinctly in their ears as when the Savior spoke in the synagogues and on the street. Then those who pierced Him will call on the rocks and mountains to fall on them and hide them from the face of Him that sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb.”-Last Day Events, 275:2-3.

Note: The truth that a special resurrection (of some of the wicked of earlier ages) occurs prior to the Second Advent is shown by the fact that those who pierced Christ will see Him return in the clouds of heaven.

6 - The Jewish rulers will see His second advent.

“As they [the Jewish rulers] gaze upon His glory, [at His second coming), there flashes before their minds the memory of the Son of Man clad in the garb of humanity. They remember how they treated Him, how they refused Him, and pressed close to the side of the great apostate. The scenes of Christ’s life appear before them in all their clearness. All He did, all He said, the humiliation to which He descended to save them from the taint of sin, rises before them in condemnation.

“They behold Him riding into Jerusalem, and see Him break into an agony of tears over the impenitent city that would not receive His message. His voice, which was heard in invitation, in entreaty, in tones of tender solicitude, seems again to fall upon their ears. The scene in the garden of Gethsemane rises before them, and they hear Christ’s amazing prayer, ‘Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me:

“Again they hear the voice of Pilate, saying, ‘I find in him no fault at all.’ They see the shameful scene in the judgment hall, when Barabbas stood by the side of Christ, and they had the privilege of choosing the guiltless One. They hear again the words of Pilate, ‘Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?’ They hear the response, ‘Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas.’ To the question of Pilate, ‘What shall I do then with Jesus?’ the answer comes, ‘Let him be crucified.’

“Again they see their Sacrifice bearing the reproach of the cross. They hear the loud, triumphant tones tauntingly exclaim, ‘If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross: ‘He saved others; himself he cannot save.’

“Now they behold Him not in the garden of Gethsemane, not in the judgment hall, not on the cross of Calvary. The signs of His humiliation have passed away, and they look upon the face of God- the face they spit upon, the face which priests and rulers struck with the palms of their hands. Now the truth in all its vividness is revealed to them.” -Maranatha, 293:15.

7 - Christ promised Caiaphaa that this day would come.

“[At His trial], Caiaphas, raising his right arm toward heaven, addressed Jesus in the form of a solemn oath: ‘I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.

“Every ear was bent to listen, and every eye was fixed on His face as He answered, ‘Thou hast said.’ A heavenly light seemed to illuminate His pale countenance as He added, ‘Nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming In the clouds of heaven.‘

“For a moment the divinity of Christ flashed through His guise of humanity. The high priest quailed before the penetrating eyes of the Savior. . For a moment he felt as if standing before the eternal Judge, whose eye, which sees all things, was reading his soul, bringing to light mysteries supposed to be hidden with the dead.

“The scene passed from the priest’s vision. . Rending his robe, . . he demanded that. , the prisoner be condemned for blasphemy. ‘What further need have we of witnesses?’ he said; ‘behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. What think ye?’ And they all condemned Him,” -Desire of Ages, 706:3; 707:1-708:1.

8 - The Jewish leaders made their choice, and, at His coming, they will later remember it.

“Thus the Jewish leaders made their choice. Their decision was registered in the book which John saw in the hand of Him that sat upon the throne, the book which no man could open. In all its vindictiveness this decision will appear before them in the day when this book is unsealed by the Lion of the tribe of Judah,”-Christ’s Object Lessons, 294:1.

“When Christ comes the second time, not as a prisoner surrounded by a rabble will they see Him. They will see Him as heaven’s King. . Then the priests and rulers will remember distinctly the scene in the judgment hall. Every circumstance will appear before them as if written in letters of fire.” -Maranatha, 282:7.

“THIS IS OUR GOD; HE WILL SAVE US!”

1 - The faithful cry, “He will save us!”

“In the lives of all who reject truth there are moments when conscience awakens, when memory presents the torturing recollection of a life of hypocrisy and the soul is harassed with vain regrets. But what are these compared with the remorse of that day when ‘fear cometh as desolation,’ when ‘destruction cometh as a whirlwind” Proverbs 1:27. Those who would have destroyed Christ and His faithful people now witness the glory which rests upon them. In the midst of their terror they hear the voices of the saints in joyful strains exclaiming: ‘Lo, this Is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.” ‘Great Controversy, 644:1.

THE RESURRECTION OF THE RIGHTEOUS DEAD

1 - Sequence: (1) Those that died in Christ had partaken of the divine nature. (2) After death, they were guarded by angels. (3) The second advent of Christ occurs. (4) Jesus views their graves, and sounds His silver trumpet. (5) He cries, “Awake, awake. . !” (6) There is a mighty earthquake, and the graves are op-ened. (7) The first resurrection occurs as all the remaining righteous dead come to life, by virtue of the character they had received from Christ’s righteousness. (8) As they rise from their prison-house, by the power of the Saviour In them while living, they are clothed with Immortal glory and cry, “O death, where is thy sting? . .” (9) The living righteous unite with them in a long, glad shout of victory. (10) The wrinkles and other marks of earth are gone, but they recognize one another.

“Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightening and the roar of thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. He looks upon the graves of the righteous, then, raising His hands to heaven. He cries: ‘Awake, awake, awake, ye that sleep in the dust, and arise!’ Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live. And the whole earth shall ring with the tread of the exceeding great army of every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. From the prison house of death they come, clothed with immortal glory, crying: ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?’ 1 Corinthians 15:55. And the living righteous and the risen saints unite their voices in a long, glad shout of victory.” -Great Controversy, 644:2.

“Then Jesus’ sliver trumpet sounded, as He descended on the cloud wrapped in flames of tire. He gazed on the graves of the sleeping saints, then raised His eyes and hands to heaven, and cried, ‘Awake! awake! awake! ye that sleep in the dust, and arise.’ Then there was a mighty earthquake. The graves opened, and the dead came up clothed with immortality.” -Early Writings, 16:1.

“The Life-giver will call up His purchased possession in the first resurrection, and until that triumphant hour, when the last trump shall sound and the vast army shall come forth to eternal victory, every sleeping saint will be kept in safety and will be guarded as a precious jewel, who is known to God by name. By the power of the Savior that dwelt in them while living and because they were partakers of the divine nature, they are brought forth from the dead.” -Sons and Daughters of God, 359:1.

“ ‘The hour is coming,’ Christ said, ‘in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth.’ That voice is to resound through all the habitations of the dead; and every saint who sleeps In Jesus will awake and leave his prison-house. Then the virtue of character we have received from Christ’s righteousness will ally us to true greatness of the highest order.” Sons and Daughters of God, 359:2.

“The victory of the sleeping saints will be glorious on the morning of the resurrection. . The Life-giver will crown with immortality all who come forth from the grave.”-Sons and Daughters of God, 359:3.

“Those who sleep in Jesus will be called from their prison house. . to a glorious Immortality.. He has risen, dear friends, and in your despondency you may know. . that Jesus is by your side to give you peace.

“I know what I am talking about. I have seen the time when I thought the waves were going over my head; in that time I felt my Savior precious to me. When my eldest son was taken from me I felt my grief was very great, but Jesus came to my side and I felt His peace in my soul. . When our friends go into the grave they are beautiful to us. It may be our father or mother that we lay away: when they come forth those wrinkles are all gone but the figure is there, and we know them.

“We want to be prepared to meet these dear friends as they come forth in the resurrection morning. . Shall we lay hold upon the hope set before us in the gospel that we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is?” -In Heavenly Places, 353:1-2, 3-4.

2 - That Voice, calling forth His own, resounds through all the nations of the dead.

“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth’ [John 5:28-29]: This voice Is soon to resound through all the nations of the dead, and every saint who sleeps In Jesus shall awake and leave his prison house.”-Last Day Events, 276:2.

“The precious dead, from Adam down to the last saint who dies, will hear the voice of the Son of God and will come forth from the grave to immortal life.” -Desire of Ages, 606:1.

3 - Hated on earth, the beloved of Heaven come forth from their graves.

“The heirs of God have come from garrets, from hovels, from dungeons, from scaffolds, from mountains, from deserts, from the caves of the earth, from the caverns of the sea. On earth they were ‘destitute, afflicted, tormented.’ Millions went down to the grave loaded with infamy because they steadfastly refused to yield to the deceptive claims of Satan. By human tribunals they were adjudged the vilest of criminals. But now God is ‘judge Himself.’ “-Great Controversy, 650:1.

4 - From mountains and mines.

“When Christ comes to gather to Himself those who have been faithful, the last trump will sound, and the whole earth, from the summit of the loftiest mountains to the lowest recesses of the deepest mines, will hear. The righteous dead will hear the sound of the last trump, and will come forth from their graves, to be clothed with immortality and to meet their Lord.” - 7 Bible Commentary, 909/1:2.

5 - From caverns, dungeons, caves and oceans.

“I dwell with pleasure upon the resurrection of the just, who shall come forth from all parts of the earth, from rock cavern, from dungeons, from caves of the earth, from the waters of the deep. Not one is overlooked. Every one shall hear His voice. They will come forth with triumph and victory.”-Last Day Events, 278:1.

8 - From caverns, dungeons, and wells.

“What a scene will these mountains and hills (in Switzerland) present when Christ, the Lifegiver, shall call forth the dead! They will come from caverns, from dungeons, from deep wells, where their bodies have been buried.” -Last Day Events, 278:2.

7 - From mountains, caves, dens, and dungeons.

“In the vastness of the mountains, in the caves and dens of the earth, the Savior reveals His presence and His glory.

“Yet a little while, and He that is to come will come and will not tarry. His eyes as a flame of fire penetrate into the fast-closed dungeons and hunt out the hidden ones, for their names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. The eyes of the Savior are above us, around us, noting every difficulty, discerning every danger; and there is no place where His eyes cannot penetrate, no sorrows and sufferings of His people where the sym-pathy of Christ does not reach.

“The child of God will be terror-stricken at the first sight of the majesty of Jesus Christ. He feels that he cannot live in His holy presence. But the word comes to him as to John, ‘Fear not.’ Jesus laid His right hand upon John; He raised him up from his prostrate position. So will He do unto His loyal, trusting ones.” -That I May Know Him, 360:3.

8 - Christ’s resurrection Is a sample of what the resurrection of each of His faithful ones will be like.

“The resurrection of Jesus was a sample of the final resurrection of all who sleep in Him.” Maranatha, 302:1.

9 - It is only because of our earlier union with Christ here on earth, that we will come forth from the grave.

“Christ became one flesh with us, in order that we might become one spirit with Him. It is by virtue of this union that we are to come forth from the grave -not merely as a manifestation of the power of Christ, but because, through faith, His life has become ours. Those who see Christ in His true character, and receive Him into the heart, have everlasting life. It is through the Spirit that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received into the heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal.” -Maranatha, 902:6.

10 - Eternal life is only possible in and through Christ.” Man has no control over his life. But the life of Christ was unborrowed. No one can take this life from Him. ‘I lay it down of myself.’ He said. In Him was life, original, unborrowed, underived. This life is not inherent in man. He can possess it only through Christ.” -Maranatha, 902:9.

THE APPEARANCE OF THE SAINTS

1 - They will come forth the same in size, but with youthful, eternal vigor.

“All come forth from their graves the same in stature as when they entered the tomb. Adam, who stands among the risen throng, is of lofty height and majestic form, in stature but little below the Son of God. He presents a marked contrast to the people of later generations; in this one respect is shown the great degeneracy of the race. But all arise with the freshness and vigor of eternal youth. . All blemishes and deformities are left in the grave. Restored to the tree of life in the long-lost Eden, the redeemed will ‘grow up’ (Malachi 4:2) to the full stature of the race in its primeval glory.”-Great Controversy, 644:3-645:O.

2 - Their personal identity will be preserved.

“Our personal identity is preserved in the resurrection, though not the same particles of matter or material substance as went into the grave.” -6 Bible Commentary, 1093/1:2 [The entire passage Is worth reading].

3 - They will be given a higher nature.

“When Christ comes, He takes those who have purified their souls by obeying the truth. . This mortal shall put on immortality, and these corruptible bodies, subject to disease, will be changed from mortal to immortal. We shall then be gifted with a higher nature. The bodies of all who purify their souls by obeying the truth shall be glorified. They will have fully received and believed in Jesus Christ.” -3 Selected Messages, 427:3.

LIVING SAINTS MADE IMMORTAL

1 - They are made immortal, and caught up to Jesus.

“The living righteous are changed ‘in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,’ At the voice of God they were glorified; now they are made Immortal and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord In the air.” -Great Controversy, 645:1.

2 - Changed in a moment, they meet their Lord in the air.

“The voice of the Son of God called forth the sleeping saints, clothed with glorious immortality. The living saints were changed In a moment and were caught up with them into the cloudy chariot,”-Early Writings, 35:1.

3 - They ascend amid shouts of glory and victory.

“And the graves were opened, and the saints came forth, clothed with immortality, crying, ‘Victory over death and the grave’; and together with the living saints they were caught up to meet their Lord In the air, while rich, musical shouts of glory and victory were upon every immortal tongue.” -Early Writings, 273:O.

4 - The meeting in the sky.

“There stands the risen host. The last thought was of death and its pangs. The last thoughts they had were of the grave and the tomb, but now they proclaim, ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?’. . Here they stand and the finishing touch of immortality is put upon them and they go up to meet their Lord in the air. . There are the columns of angels on either side; . . then the angelic choir strike the note of victory and the angels in the two columns take up the song and the redeemed host join as though they had been singing the song on the earth, and they have been. Oh, what music! There is not an inharmonious note. Every voice proclaims, ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.’ He sees the travail of His soul, and is satisfied,”-Sons and Daughters of God, 359:4

5 - When we receive holy flesh.

“When human beings receive holy flesh, they will not remain on the earth, but will be taken to heaven. While sin is forgiven in this life, its results are not now wholly removed. It is at His coming that Christ is to ‘change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body.’ “-2 Selected Messages, 33:3.

FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES ARE REUNITED

1 - Angela bring loved ones together.” Angels’ gather together H is elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.’ Little children are borne by holy angels to their mothers’ arms. Friends long separated by death are united, nevermore to part.”-Great Controversy, 645:1.

2 - Infants wing their way to their mothers.” As the little Infants come forth immortal from their dusty beds, they immediately wing their way to their mother’s arms.” -2 Selected Messages, 260:1. (For more on children in heaven, read 2 Selected Messages, 260, and Early Writings, 19.)

3 - Friends are recognized.

“The 144,000 shouted. ‘Alleluia!’ as they recognized their friends who had been torn from them by death, and in the same moment we were changed and caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.”-Early Writings, 16:1.

“We shall know our friends, even as the disciples knew Jesus. They may have been deformed, diseased, or disfigured, in this mortal life, and they rise in perfect health and symmetry; yet in the glorified body their identity will be perfectly preserved. Then shall we know even as also we are known. 1 Corinthians 13:12. In the face radiant with the light shining from the face of Jesus, we shall recognize the lineaments of those we love.”-Desire of Ages, 804:1.

“He will come to honor those who have loved Him, and kept His commandments, and to take them to Himself. He has not forgotten them nor His promise. There will be a re-linking of the family chain.” - Desire of Ages, 692:9.

4 - They meet those who brought them to Christ.

“The redeemed will meet and recognize those whose attention they have directed to the uplifted Savior. What blessed converse they have with these souls! ‘I was a sinner,’ it will be said, ‘without God and without hope in the world, and you came to me and drew my attention to the precious Savior as my only hope. . Others will say, ‘I was a heathen in heathen lands.

You left your friends and comfortable home and came to teach me how to find Jesus and believe in Him as the only true God. I demolished my idols and worshiped God, and now I see Him face to face. I am saved, eternally saved, ever to behold Him whom I love..’

“Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry and clothed the naked. ‘When despair bound my soul in unbelief, the Lord sent you to me,’ they say, ‘to speak words of hope and comfort. You brought me food for my physical necessities, and you opened to me the Word of God, awakening me to my spiritual needs. You treated me as a brother. You sympathized with me in my sorrows, and restored my bruised and wounded soul, so that I could grasp the hand of Christ that was reached out to save me, In my ignorance you taught me patiently that I had a Father in heaven who cared for me, You read to me the precious promises of God’s Word, You Inspired In me the faith that He would save me. My heart was softened, subdued, broken, as I contemplated the sacrifice which Christ had made for me, . I am here, saved, eternally saved, ever to live in His presence and to praise Him who gave His life for me.’

5 - They will meet those who gave them papers which brought them to Jesus.

“I was shown men and women studying with intense interest papers and a few pages of tracts upon present truth. They would read the evidences so wonderful and new to them, and would open their Bibles with a deep and new interest, as subjects of truth that had been dark to them were made plain, especially the light in regard to the Sabbath of the Fourth Commandment.

As they searched the Scriptures to see if these things were so, a new light shone upon their understanding, for angels were hovering over them, and impressing their minds with the truths contained in the publications they had been reading.

“I saw them holding papers and tracts in one hand, and the Bible in the other, while their cheeks were wet with tears; and bowing before God in earnest, humble prayer, to be guided into all truth, -the very thing He was doing for them before they called upon Him, And when the truth was received in their hearts, and they saw the harmonious chain of truth, the Bible was to them a new book; they hugged it to their hearts with grateful joy, while their countenances were all aglow with happiness and holy joy,” -Life Sketches, 214:3-215:1.

6 - Oh, we must be there!

“Only those who are holy, those who have followed fully the meek Pattern, will with rapturous joy exclaim as they behold Him, ‘Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.’ And they will be changed ‘in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump’ -that trump which wakes the sleeping saints, and calls them forth from their dusty beds, clothed with glorious immortality, and shouting, ‘Victory! Victory over death and the grave!’ The changed saints are then caught up together with the angels to meet the Lord In the air, never more to be separated from the object of their love.

“With such a prospect as this before us, such a glorious hope, such a redemption that Christ has purchased for us by His own blood, shall we hold our peace? Shall we not praise God even with a loud voice, as did the disciples when Jesus rode into Jerusalem? Is not our prospect far more glorious than was theirs? Who dare then forbid us glorifying God, even with a loud voice, when we have such a hope, big with immortality, and full of glory? We have tasted of the powers of the world to come, and long for more. My whole being cries out after the living God, and I shall not be satisfied until I am filled with all His fullness.”-Early Writings, 110:1-2.

7 - A summary of the final triumph of the redeemed.

“The Life-giver is coming to break the fetters of the tomb. He is to bring forth the captives and proclaim, ‘I am the resurrection and the life.’ There stands the risen host. The last thought was of death and its pangs. The last thoughts they had were of the grave and the tomb, but now they proclaim, ‘O, death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory’ (1 Corinthians 15:55). The pangs of death were the last things they felt.

“When they awake the pain is all gone. ‘O grave, where is thy victory?’ Here they stand and the finishing touch of Immortality is put upon them and they go up to meet their Lord in the air. The gates of the city of God swing back upon their hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in..

“There are the columns of angels on either side, and the ransomed of God walk in through the cherubim and seraphim. Christ bids them welcome and puts upon them His benediction: ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant:. . enter thou into the joy of thy lord’ (Matthew 25:21). What is that joy? He sees of the travail of His soul, and is satisfied. That is what we labor for.

“Here is one, who in the night season we pleaded with God on his behalf. There is one that we talked with on his dying bed, and he hung his helpless soul upon Jesus. Here is one who was a poor drunkard. We tried to get his eyes fixed upon Him who is mighty to save and we told him that Christ could give him the victory. There are the Crowns of Immortal glory upon their heads, and then the redeemed cast their glittering crowns at the feet of Jesus; and then the angelic choir strikes the note of victory and the angels in the two columns take up the song and the redeemed host join as though they had been singing the song on the earth, and they have been.

“Oh, what music! There is not an inharmonious note. Every voice proclaims, ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain’ (Revelation 5:12). He sees of the travail of His soul and is satisfied. Do you think anyone there will take time to tell of his trials and terrible difficulties? ‘The former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind’ (Isaiah 65: 17). ‘God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes’ (Revelation 21:4).”-3 Selected Messages, 430:5- 431:4.

9 - A third summary statement.

“But while anguish was upon the loyal and true who would not worship the beast or his image and accept and revere an idol Sabbath, One said, ‘Look up’ Look up” Every eye was lifted” and the heavens seemed to part as a scroll when it is rolled together, and as Stephen looked into heaven, [so] we looked. The mockers were taunting and reviling us, and boasting of what they intended to do to us if we continued obstinate in holding fast our faith. But now we were as those who heard them not; we were gazing upon a scene that shut out everything else.

“There stood revealed the throne of God. Around it were ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands upon thousands, and close about the throne were the martyrs. Among this number I saw the very ones who were so recently in such abject misery, whom the world knew not, whom the world hated and despised.

“A voice said, ‘Jesus, who is seated upon the throne, has so loved man that He gave His Life a sacrifice to redeem him from the power of Satan, and to exalt him to His throne. He who is above all powers, He who has the greatest influence in heaven and in earth, He to whom every soul is indebted for every favor he has received, was meek and lowly in disposition, holy, harmless, and undefiled in life.

“He was obedient to all His Father’s commandments. Wickedness has filled the earth; it is defiled under the inhabitants thereof. The high places of the powers of earth have been polluted with corruption and base idolatries, but the time has come when righteousness shall receive the palm of victory and triumph. Those who were accounted by the world as weak and unworthy, those who were defenceless against the cruelty of men, shall be crowned conquerors and more than conquerors.’ [Revelation 7:9-17 quoted.] “They are before the throne enjoying the sunless splendours of eternal day, not as a scattered, feeble company, to suffer by the satanic passions of a rebellious world, expressing the sentiments, the doctrines, and the counsels of demons.

“Strong and terrible have become the masters of iniquity in the world under the control of Satan, but strong is the Lord God who judgeth Babylon. The just have no longer anything to fear from force or fraud as long as they are loyal and true. A mightier than the strong man armed is set for their defense. All power and greatness and excellence of character will be given to those who have believed and stood in defense of the truth, standing up and firmly defending the laws of God.

“Another heavenly being exclaimed with firm and musical voice, ‘They have come out of great tribulation. They have walked in the fiery furnace in the world, heated intensely by the passions and caprices of men who would enforce upon them the worship of the beast and his image, who would compel them to be disloyal to the God of heaven.

“They have come from the mountains, from the rocks from the dens and caves of the earth, from dungeons, from prisons, from secret councils, from the torture chamber, from hovels, from garrets. They have passed through sore affliction, deep self-denial, and deep disappointment. They are no longer to be the sport and ridicule of wicked men. They are to be no longer mean and sorrowful in the eyes of those who despise them.

“Remove the filthy garments from them, with which wicked men have delighted to clothe them. Give them a change of raiment, even the white robes of righteousness, and set a fair mitre upon their heads.’

“They were clothed in richer robes than earthly beings had ever worn. They were crowned with diadems of glory such as human beings had never seen. The days of suffering, of reproach, of want, of hunger, are no more; weeping is past. Then they break forth in songs, loud, clear, and musical. They wave the palm branches of victory, and exclaim, ‘Salvation to our God which sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb’ (Revelation 7:10).

“Oh, may God endue us with His Spirit and make us strong In His strength! In that great day of supreme and final triumph it will be seen that the righteous were strong, and that wickedness in all its forms and with all its pride was a weak and miserable failure and defeat. We will cling close to Jesus, we will trust Him, we will seek His grace and His great salvation. We must hide in Jesus, for He is a covert from the storm, a present help in time of trouble.” -3 Selected Messages, 428:2-430:4.

The Ascension And Millennium

POST-ASCENSION EVENTS ON EARTH

In the previous study, we viewed events at the time of the Second Advent, as they relate primarily to the redeemed -but also to the wicked. Those are the pre-ascension events, which occur at the time of Christ’s second coming, before Jesus and the redeemed begin their journey to heaven.

In the present study, we will view (1) the post-ascension events on earth, which is the death of the living wicked, and the binding of Satan to this planet for a thousand years; and (2) the post-ascension events of the redeemed; which Includes their journey to heaven, their coronation and entrance into the Holy City, and the sentencing judgment.

ALL THE WICKED HAVE MADE THEIR DECISIONS

1 - Now the controversy is with man, as well as with angels.

“ ‘A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations, He will plead with all flesh; He will give them that are wicked to the sword.’ Jeremiah 25:31. For six thousand years the great controversy has been In progress; the Son of God and His heavenly messengers have been in conflict with the power of the evil one, to warn, enlighten, and save the children of men. Now all have made their decisions; the wicked have fully united with Satan in his warfare against God. The time has come for God to vindicate the authority at His downtrodden law. Now the controversy is not alone with Satan, but with men. ‘The Lord hath a controversy with the nations”; He will give them that are wicked to the sword.’ “-Great Controversy, 656:1.

THOSE WITH THE SLAUGHTERING WEAPONS GO FORTH

1 - The work of destruction begins with the spiritual guardians.

“The mark of deliverance has been set upon those ‘that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done.’ Now the angel of death goes forth, represented in Ezekiel’s vision by the men with the slaughtering weapons, to whom the command is given: ‘Slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at My sanctuary,’ Says the prophet: ‘They began at the ancient men which were before the house.’ Ezekiel 9:1-6, The work of destruction begins among those who have professed to be the spiritual guardians of the people. The false watchmen are the first to fall. There are none to pity or to spare, Men, women, maidens, and little children perish together,” -Great Controversy. 656:2.

Note: Contrary to errors being taught, the fulfillment of the Ezekiel 9 slaughter occurs not at the sealing - but here at the second coming of Christ.

GOD WILL SLAY THE WICKED

1 - All the wicked are slain.

“ ‘The Lord cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants at the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.’ Isaiah 26:21. ‘And this shall be the plague wherewith the Lord will smite all the people that have fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh shall consume away while they stand upon their feet, and their eyes shall consume away in their holes, and their tongue shall consume away in their mouth. And it shall come to pass in that day, that a great tumult from the Lord shall be among them; and they shall lay hold everyone on the hand of his neighbor.’ Zechariah 14:12-13. In the mad strife of their own fierce passions, and by the awful outpouring of God’s unmingled wrath, fall the wicked Inhabitants of the earth -priests, rulers, and people, rich and poor, high and low. ‘And the slain of the Lord shall be at that day from one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth: they shall not be lamented, neither gathered, nor buried.’ Jeremiah 25:33.

“At the coming of Christ the wicked are blotted from the face of the whole earth consumed with the spirit of His mouth and destroyed by the brightness of His glory.” -Great Controversy, 657:1.

2 - Identified with sin, the wicked die with it.

“To sin, wherever found, ‘our God is a consuming fire’ (Hebrews 12:29), in all who submit to His power the Spirit of God will consume sin. But if men cling to sin, they become identified with it. Then the glory of God, which destroys sin, must destroy them.”-Desire of Ages, 107:4.

3 - Slain by His glory.

“The glory of His countenance, which to the righteous is life, will be to the wicked a consuming fire.” - Desire of Ages, 600:2.

4 - Their death is an act of mercy.

“Could those whose hearts are filled with hatred of God, of truth and holiness, mingle with the heavenly throng and Join their songs of praise? Could they endure the glory of God and the Lamb? No, no; years of probation were granted them, that they might form characters for heaven; but they have never trained the mind to love purity; they have never learned the language of heaven, and now it is too late. A life of rebel-lion against God has unfitted them for heaven. Its purity, holiness, and peace would be torture to them; the glory of God would be a consuming fire. They would long to flee from that holy place. They would welcome destruction, that they might be hidden from the face of Him who died to redeem them. The destiny of the wicked is fixed by their own choice. Their exclusion from heaven is voluntary with themselves, and just and merciful on the part of God.” -Great Controversy, 542:2-543:O.

5 - They are responsible for their own deaths.

“God destroys no one. The sinner destroys himself by his own impenitence.” -5 Testimonies, 120:1. Also see The Great Controversy, 25-97.

AN INCREDIBLY IMMENSE DESTRUCTION OCCURS

Several years ago, the present writer compiled a large number of quotations dealing with the terrible storm of wrath predicted by the third angel’s message (Revelation 14:9-11). As wickedness Increased, this wrath would gradually increase. It would greatly intensify when human probation closed, fall on men again at the Second Advent, and, again, in the final judgment after the third advent. At the second advent, for example, fire will fall from heaven and erupt from the earth, destroying the wicked.

For more Information on this, see our 10 part tract set, The Terrible Storm, now In section 2 of our Offshoots Tract book. The objective of the lengthy study was to establish from the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy that God will slay the incorrigibly wicked, and has at times done so in the past.

THE EARTH IS LEFT UNINHABITED AND DESOLATE

1 - The earth is a desolate wilderness.

“Christ takes His people to the City of God, and the earth Is emptied of Its Inhabitants. . The whole earth appears like a desolate wilderness. The ruins of cities and villages destroyed by the earthquake, uprooted trees, ragged rocks thrown out by the sea or torn out of the earth itself, are scattered over its surface, while vast caverns mark the spot where the mountains have been rent from their foundations.” -Great Controversy, 657:1-2.

“The earth looked like a desolate wilderness. Cities and villages, shaken down by the earthquake, lay in heaps. Mountains had been moved out of their places, leaving large caverns. Ragged rocks, thrown out by the sea, or torn out of the earth itself, were scattered all over its surface. Large trees had been uprooted and were strewn over the land. Here is to be the home of Satan with his evil angels for a thousand years.” -Early Writings, 290:1.

SINS ARE ROLLED BACK ON SATAN

1 - The scapegoat transaction occurs.

“Now the event takes place foreshadowed in the last solemn service of the Day of Atonement. When the ministration in the holy of holies had been completed, and the sins of Israel had been removed from the sanctuary by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, then the scapegoat was presented alive before the Lord; and in the presence of the congregation the high priest confessed over him ‘all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat.’ Leviticus 16:21. In like manner when the work of atonement in the heavenly sanctuary has been completed, then in the presence of God and heavenly angels and the host of the redeemed the sins of God’s people will be placed upon Satan; he will be declared guilty of all the evil which he has caused them to commit. And as the scapegoat was sent away into a land not inhabited, so Satan will be banished to the desolate earth, an uninhabited and dreary wilderness.” -Great Controversy, 658:1.

2 - Satan bears the final penalty.

“When Christ, by virtue of His own blood, removes the sins of His people from the heavenly sanctuary at the close of His ministration, He will place them upon Satan, who, in the execution of the judgment, must bear the final penalty.” Great Controversy, 422:2.

3 - Bearing the guilt of the sin.

“Satan, bearing the guilt of all the sins which he has caused God’s people to commit, will be for a thousand years confined to the earth, which will then be desolate, without inhabitant, and he will at last suffer the full penalty of sin in the fires that shall destroy all the wicked.” -Great Controversy. 485:9-486:O.

SATAN IS RESTRICTED TO PLANET EARTH

1 - For the first time since sin began, Satan is limited to this planet.

“The revelator foretells the banishment of Satan and the condition of chaos and desolation to which the earth Is to be reduced, and he declares that this condition will exist for a thousand years. After presenting the scenes of the Lord’s second coming and the destruction of the wicked, the prophecy continues: ‘I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thou sand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season.’ “-Great Controversy, 658:2.

2. Angels and saints rejoice at his confinement.

“I heard shouts of triumph from the angels and from the redeemed saints, which sounded like ten thousand musical instruments, because they were to be no more annoyed and tempted by Satan and because the inhabitants of other worlds were delivered from his presence and his temptations,”-Early Writings, 290:2.

3 - Satan will not be able to travel to other worlds.

“Here he (Satan) will be confined, to wander up and down over the broken surface of the earth and see the effects of his rebellion against God’s law. For a thousand years he can enjoy the fruit of the curse which he has caused. Limited alone to the earth, he will not have the privilege of ranging to other planets, to tempt and annoy those who have not fallen.” -Early Writings, 290:1.

Note: Several passages clarify that, although Satan was cast out of the highest heaven at the time of that first war (Great Controversy, page 500:1; PP 42:2), and out of the last sympathies of the angels at the death of Christ (DA 758:1-761:3), he was able to visit other planets until the beginning of the millennium (above quotations). So, in a very special sense, he is finally “bound” to the earth.

SATAN WILL ONLY HAVE TIME TO THINK

1 - He is limited to the earth.

“Here is to be the home of Satan with his evil angels for a thousand years. Limited to the earth, he will not have access to other worlds to tempt and annoy those who have never fallen. It Is In this sense that he Is bound: there are none remaining. upon whom he can exercise his power. He is wholly cut off from the work of deception and ruin which for so many centuries has been his sole delight.”-Great Controversy, 659:1.

2 - Even the wicked are beyond his reach.

“Even the wicked are now placed beyond the power of Satan, and alone with his evil angels he remains to realize the effect of the curse which sin has brought.” -Great Controversy, 660:1.

3 - He fears the future.

“During this time, Satan suffers extremely. Since his fall his evil traits have been in constant exercise. But he is then to be deprived of his power, and left to reflect upon the part which he has acted since his fall, and

to look forward with trembling and terror to the dreadful future, when he must suffer for all the evil that he has done and be punished for all the sins that he has caused to be committed.” -Early Writings, 290:1.

4 . His sufferings are intense.

“For a thousand years, Satan will wander to and fro in the desolate earth to behold the results of his rebellion against the law of God, during this time his sufferings are Intense. Since his fall his life of unceasing activity has banished reflection; but he is now deprived of his power and left to contemplate the part which he has acted since first he rebelled against the government of heaven, and to look forward with trembling and terror to the dreadful future when he must suffer for all the evil that he has done and be punished for the sins that he has caused to be committed,”-Great Controversy, 660:2.

THE JOURNEY TO THE CITY OF GOD

1 - The meeting in the sky.

“There stands the risen host. The last thought was of death and its pangs. The last thoughts they had were of the grave and the tomb, but now they proclaim, ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?’. . Here they stand and the finishing touch of immortality is put upon them and they go up to meet their Lord in the air. , There are the columns of angels on either side; . . then the angelic choir strike the note of victory and the angels in the two columns take up the song and the redeemed host join as though they had been singing the song on the earth, and they have been. Oh, what music! There is not an inharmonious note. Every voice proclaims, ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.’ He sees the travail of His soul, and is satisfied.”-Sons and Daughters of God, 359:4.

2 - They ascend to the Holy City.

“Friends long separated by death are united, nevermore to part, and with songs of gladness ascend together to the City of God.

“On each side of the cloudy chariot are wings, and beneath it are living wheels; and as the chariot rolls upward, the wheels cry, ‘Holy: and the wings, as they move, cry, ‘Holy,’ and the retinue of angels cry, ‘Holy, holy, holy, lord God Almighty.’ And the redeemed shout, ‘Alleluia” as the chariot moves onward toward the New Jerusalem.” -Great Controversy, 645:1-2.

3 - “Homeward Bound!”

“Oh, how glorious it will be to see Him and be welcomed as His redeemed ones! Long have we waited, but our hope is not to grow dim. If we can but see the King In His beauty we shall be forever blessed. I feel as if I must cry aloud, ‘Homeward bound!’ “-8 Testimonies, 253:1.

4 - The journey takes seven days.

“We all entered the cloud together, and were seven days ascending to the sea of glass.” Early Writings, 16:2.

Brother G.B. Starr (1854-1944) worked for many years as an evangelist and church administrator. He worked for a time in Australia, and later reported statements which, he said, Ellen White made to him. But some of his statements do not ring right, when compared with her writings. For that reason, we cannot accept the most startling of them as factual.

Perhaps the story about the stop-over planet is true (it would be nice if it were), but we cannot know this with certainty.

(However, it is of Interest that, later in this present section, we will quote a passage which says angels are now preparing crowns for the saints (5T 96). If they are now preparing crowns, they could also be preparing a stopover planet for the seven-day trip to heaven.)

The following quotation by the E.G. White Estate discusses this particular statement by G.B. Starr:

“The report, based on the memory of one individual {Starr], that Ellen G. White stated in a dinner-table conversation that the inhabitants of other worlds are gathering fruit for the Sabbath-day entertainment of the translated saints en route to heaven, is without support, and fanciful. The assertion that the words were stenographically reported is without foundation. Ellen G. White makes only the simple statement in Early Writings, page 16, that ‘We were seven days ascending to the sea of glass,’ No mention is made by Ellen G. White of the Sabbath spent en route.”- Apocryphal quotations of E.G. White, statement by E. G. White Estate, E.G. White Index, Vol. 3, p. 3189.

THE SAINTS’ CORONATION ON THE SEA OF GLASS

1 - Sequence: (1) Clothed in glorious white robes, all the saints are standing on the sea of glass outside the City. (2) They are standing in a hollow square, with Jesus in the center, (3) The angels bring crowns from the city, and Jesus personally places a crown on the head of each saint. (4) Each one is satisfied with his crown. (5) The angels bring harps from the city, and Jesus personally hands one to each of His redeemed ones. (6) Then the commanding angel strikes the first note, and other leading angels with him; and all sweep the strings and sing praises to Christ.

“Before entering the City of God, the Savior bestows upon His followers the emblems of victory and invests them with the insignia of their royal state. The glittering ranks are drawn up in the form of a hollow square about their King, whose form rises in majesty high above saint and angel, whose countenance beams upon them full of benignant love, Throughout the unnumbered host of the redeemed every glance is fixed upon Him, every eye beholds His glory whose ‘visage was so marred more than any man, and His form more than the sons of men,’ Upon the heads of the overcomers, Jesus with His own right hand places the crown of glory. For each there is a crown, bearing his own ‘new name’ (Revelation 2: 17), and the inscription, ‘Holiness to the Lord.’ In every hand are placed the victor’s palm and the shining harp. Then, as the commanding angels strike the note, every hand sweeps the harp strings with skillful touch, awaking sweet music in rich, melodious strains. Rapture unutterable thrills every heart, and each voice Is raised In grateful praise: ‘Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever.’ Revelation 1:5, 6,”-Great Controversy. 645:3-646:O.

“Jesus brought the crowns, and with His own right hand placed them on our heads. He gave us harps of gold and palms of victory. Here on the sea of glass the 144,000 stood in a perfect square. Some of them had very bright crowns, others not so bright. Some crowns appeared heavy with stars, while others had but few. All were perfectly satisfied with their crowns, And they were all clothed with a glorious white mantle from their shoulders to their feet.” -Early Writings, 16:2-17:O.

“Then I saw a very great number of angels bring from the city glorious crowns -a crown for every saint, with his name written thereon. As Jesus called for the crowns, angels presented them to Him, and with His own right hand, the lovely Jesus placed the crowns on the heads of the saints. In the same manner the angels brought the harps, and Jesus presented them also to the saints. The commanding angel first struck the note, and then every voice was raised in grateful, happy praise, and every hand skillfully swept over the strings of the harp, sending forth melodious music in rich and perfect strains,”-Early Writings, 288:1.

Note: According to the above statements, all the redeemed-including the 144,000 -are in the hollow square. This agrees with Great Controversy, page 665:2; in which several different groups surround Jesus. Thus the 144,000 can be said to be in the square, and also all the saints can be said to be in that square.

2 - The angels welcome them with singing, “In that day the redeemed will shine forth in the glory of the Father and the Son. The angels, touching their golden harps, will welcome the King and His trophies of victory-those who have been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb, A song of triumph will peal forth, filling all heaven. Christ has conquered. He enters the heavenly courts, accompanied by His re-deemed ones, the witnesses that His mission of suffering and sacrifice has not been in vain.”- 9 Testimonies, 285:2-286:O.

3 - Angels are now making those crowns.” When the Lord makes up His jewels. the true, the frank, the honest, will be looked upon with pleasure, Angels are employed In making crowns for such ones, and upon these star-gemmed crowns will be reflected, with splendor, the light which radiates from the throne of God.”-5 Testimonies, 96:2,

4 - A crown of glory is waiting for us, individually, in heaven.

“A crown of glory. . is laid up for us who wait, and love, and long for the appearing of the Savior.

“ It is the waiting ones who are to be crowned with glory, honor, and immortality. You need not talk to me of the honors of the world, or the praise of its great ones. They are all vanity.

Let but the finger of God touch them, and they would soon go back to dust again. I want honor that is last-ing, honor that is immortal, honor that will never perish; a crown that is richer than any crown that that ever decked the brow of a monarch. Maranatha 309:3-4.

5 - Soon we will receive those crowns.

“Talk of heavenly things, Talk of Jesus, His loveliness and glory, and of His undying love for you, and let your heart flow out in love and gratitude to Him, who died to save you. Oh, get ready to meet your Lord in peace. Those who are ready will soon receive an unfading crown of life, and will dwell forever in the kingdom of God,’ with Christ, with angels, and with those who have been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ.” -Sons and Daughters of God, 362:2.

6 - Receiving their crowns, many will thank their mothers.

“The day of God will reveal how much the world owes to godly mothers. . When the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened; when the ‘well done’ of the great Judge is pronounced, and the crown of immortal glory is placed upon the brow of the victor, many will raise their crowns in sight of the assembled universe, and pointing to their mother say: ‘She made me all am through the grace of God. Her instruction, her prayers, have been blessed to my eternal salvation.” -Maranatha, 308:2-3.

7 - Parents will see their children crowned.

“With joy unutterable, parents see the crown, the robe, the harp, given to their children. The days of hope and fear are ended. The seed sown with tears and prayers may have seemed to be sown in vain, but their harvest is reaped with joy at last. Their children have been redeemed.” Maranatha, 308:1.

8 - Christ will rejoice as He beholds the redeemed.

“In the results of His work Christ will behold its recompense. In that great multitude which no man could number, presented ‘faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.’ He whose blood has redeemed and whose life has taught us ‘shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.’ “-Education, 309:3.

JESUS OPENS THE GATES

1. Sequence: (1) The entire company march across the sea of glass to the City. (2) Jesus opens the gates and tells them, “You have washed your robes in My blood, stood stiffly for My truth; enter in.” (3) Jesus leads them into the City, and they feel they have a perfect right to be there. (4) Within the City, they behold Adam’s original home-the Garden of Eden. (5) Then Jesus says, “Your conflict is ended; come, ye blessed of My Father. .”

“Angels were all about us as we marched over the sea of glass to the gate of the city. Jesus raised His mighty, glorious arm, laid hold of the pearly gate, swung it back on its glittering hinges, and said to us, ‘You have washed your robes in My blood, stood stiffly for My truth, enter in.’ We all marched in and felt that we had a perfect right in the city.”- Early Writings, 17:O.

“Jesus threw open the gates of the golden city and led us in. Here we were made welcome, for we had kept the ‘commandments of God,’ and had a ‘right to the tree of life.’ “ -Early Writings, 35:1.

“Before the ransomed throng Is the Holy City. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in. There they behold the Paradise of God, the home of Adam in his innocence. Then that voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, is heard, saying: ‘Your conflict is ended.’ ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’“ -Great Controversy, 646:1.

“A voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, will be heard saying, ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father, Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’“ -Counsels on Stewardship, 950:2.

Note: As quoted above, In Early Writings 35 it is called “a gate,” but “gates” In the other (later) passages. This was either an initial memory lapse (In recounting her first vision) or a typographical error. But it is also an evidence of how exactly her writings were later printed and reprinted.

A VIEW OF THE CITY

1 - Jesus enters the city triumphantly with His followers. Everything within the city is beautiful and lovely, and, In thankfulness, the redeemed cast their crowns at the feet of Jesus and sing praises to Him.

“Within the city there was everything to feast the eye. Rich glory they beheld everywhere. Then Jesus looked upon His redeemed saints; their countenances were radiant with glory; and as He fixed His loving eyes upon them, He said with His rich, musical voice, ‘I behold the travail of My soul, and am satisfied. This rich glory is yours to enjoy eternally. Your sorrows are ended. There shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain.’ I saw the redeemed host bow and cast their glittering crowns at the feet of Jesus, and then, as His lovely hand raised them up. they touched their golden harps and filled all heaven with their rich music and songs to the Lamb.”-Early Writings, 288:1-289:O.

Here is another view of the city; this one 2,000 years earlier, when Christ previously entered it triumphantly just after His ascension:

“Then the portals of the city of God are opened wide, and the angelic throng sweep through the gates amid a burst of rapturous music.

“There is the throne, and around it the rainbow of promise. There are cherubim and seraphim. The commanders of the angel hosts, the sons of God, the representatives of the unfallen worlds, are assembled. The heavenly council before which Lucifer had accused God and His Son.. the representatives of those sinless realms over which Satan had thought to establish his dominion, -all are there to welcome the Re-deemer. They are eager to celebrate His triumph and to glorify their King.”-Desire of Ages, 833: 11834:1.

THE TWO ADAMS MEET

1 - Adam falls at the feet of Christ.

“As the ransomed ones are welcomed to the City of God, there rings out upon the air an exultant cry of adoration. The two Adams are about to meet. The Son of God is standing with outstretched arms to receive the father of our race -the being whom He created, who sinned against his Maker, and for whose sin the marks of the crucifixion are borne upon the Savior’s form. As Adam discerns the prints of the cruel nails, he does not fall upon the bosom of his Lord, but in humiliation casts himself at His feet, crying: ‘Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain!’

Tenderly the Savior lifts him up and bids him look once more upon the Eden home from which he has so long been exiled.”-Great Controversy, 647:2.

ADAM VIEWS THE GARDEN OF EDEN

1 - In Eden, Adam and his family worship and praise Christ.

“Transported with joy, he [Adam} beholds the trees that were once his delight -the very trees whose fruit he himself had gathered in the days of his innocence and joy. He sees the vines that his own hands have trained, the very flowers that he once loved to care for. His mind grasps the reality of the scene; he comprehends that this is indeed Eden restored, more lovely now than when he was banished from it. The Savior leads him to the tree of life and plucks the glorious fruit and bids him eat. He looks about him and beholds a multitude of his family redeemed, standing in the Paradise of God. Then he casts his glittering crown at the feet of Jesus and, falling upon His breast, embraces the Redeemer. He touches the golden harp, and the vaults of heaven echo the triumphant song: “Worthy, worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and lives again!” The family of Adam take up the strain and cast their crowns at the Savior’s feet as they bow before Him in adoration.”-Great Controversy, 648:1.

THE REDEEMED SEE THE TREE AND THE THRONE

1 - A view of the tree of life.

“Here we saw the tree of life and the throne of God. Out of the throne came a pure river of water, and on either side of the river was the tree of life. On one side of the river was a trunk of a tree, and a trunk on the other side of the river, both of pure, transparent gold. At first I thought I saw two trees. I looked again, and saw that they were united at the top in one tree. So it was the tree of life on either side of the river of life. Its branches bowed to the place where we stood, and the fruit was glorious; it looked like gold mixed with silver.”- Early Writings, 17:1.

2 - Partaking of the tree, and viewing the throne.

“I then saw Jesus leading His people to the tree of life, and again we heard His lovely voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, saying, . The leaves of this tree are for the healing of the nations. Eat ye all of it.’ Upon the tree of life was most beautiful fruit, of which the saints could partake freely. In the city was a most glorious throne, from which proceeded a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal. On each side of this river was the tree of life, and on the banks of the river were other beautiful trees bearing fruit which was good for food.

“Language is altogether too feeble to attempt a description of heaven. As the scene rises before me, I am lost in amazement. Carried away with the surpassing splendor and excellent glory, I lay down the pen, and exclaim, ‘Oh, what love! what wondrous love!’ The most exalted language fails to describe the glory of heaven or the matchless depths of a Savior’s love.” - Early Writings, 289: 1-2,

THE 144,000 SING A NEW SONG

1 - The 144,000 are frequently mentioned in Early Writings, and less often in Great Controversy. But in one paragraph we are given several identifying features of this group: (1) They had gotten the victory over the beast, his image, and his name (2) They were translated from among the living at the second advent, and therefore are first fruits. (3) They came out of great tribulation, for they passed through the time of trouble. (4) They went through Jacob’s trouble. (5) They stood without an intercessor after the close of probation. (6) They were without fault before God.

“Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with fire, -so resplendent is it with the glory of God, -are gathered the company that have ‘gotten the victory over the beast, and over his Image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name.’ With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, ‘having the harps of God,’ they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among men; and there is heard, as the sound of many waters, and as the sound of a great thunder, ‘the voice of harpers harping with their harps.’ And they sing ‘a new song’ before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb -a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience an experience such as no other company have ever had. ‘These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth.’ These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as ‘the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.’

Revelation 15:2,3; 14:1-5. ‘These are they which came out of great tribulation;’ they have passed through the time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation; they have endured the anguish of the time of Jacob’s trouble; they have stood without an Intercessor through the final outpouring of God’s judgments. But they have been delivered, for they have ‘washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.’ ‘In their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault’ before God.” -Great Controversy, 648:3-649:O.

THE REDEEMED MEET THEIR GUARDIAN ANGELS

1 - Each person’s guardian angel will meet him in the resurrection, and will later tell him about God’s guidance and care in his life.

“Not until the providences of God are seen in the light of eternity shall we understand what we owe to the care and interposition of His angels. Celestial beings have taken an active part in the affairs of men. They have appeared in garments that shone as the lightning; they have come as men, in the garb of wayfarers. They have accepted the hospitalities of human homes; they have acted as guides to benighted travelers. They have thwarted the spoiler’s purpose, and turned aside the stroke of the destroyer..

“Every redeemed one will understand the ministry of angels in his own life. The angel who was his guardian from his earliest moment; the angel who watched his steps, and covered his head in the day of peril; the angel who was with him in the valley of the shadow of death, who marked his resting place, who was the first to greet him in the resurrection morning, -what will it be to hold converse with him, and to learn the history of divine interposition in the individual life, of heavenly cooperation in every work for humanity!” -Education 304:4-305:2.

PAIN AND WEEPING ARE FOREVER ENDED

1 - Every cause of grief has been removed.

“Henceforth they are to be ever with the Lord. They stand before the throne clad in richer robes than the most honored of the earth have ever worn. They are crowned with diadems more glorious than were ever placed upon the brow of earthly monarchs. The days of pain and weeping are forever ended. The King of glory has wiped the tears from all faces; every cause of grief has been removed. Amid the waving of palm branches they pour forth a song of praise, clear, sweet, and harmonious; every voice takes up the strain,

until the anthem swells through the vaults of heaven: ‘Salvation to our God which sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.’ And all the inhabitants of heaven respond in the ascription: ‘Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever.’ Revelation 7:10, 12.”-Great Controversy, 650:1-651:O.

THEIR UNDERSTANDING WILL ENLARGE FOREVER

1 - Throughout eternal ages the redeemed will ever be learning more about what it cost to save them.

“In this life we can only begin to understand the wonderful theme of redemption. With our finite comprehension we may consider most earnestly the shame and the glory, the life and the death, the justice and the mercy, that meet in the cross; yet with the utmost stretch of our mental powers we fail to grasp its full significance. The length and the breadth, the depth and the height, of redeeming love are but dimly comprehended. The plan of redemption will not be fully understood, even when the ransomed see as they are seen and know as they are known: but through the eternal ages new truth will continually unfold to the wondering and delighted mind. Though the griefs and pains and temptations of earth are ended and the cause removed, the people of God will ever have a distinct, intelligent knowledge of what their salvation has cost.

“The cross of Christ will be the science and the song of the redeemed through all eternity. In Christ glorified they will behold Christ crucified. Never will it be forgotten that He whose power created and upheld the unnumbered worlds through the vast realms of space, the Beloved of God, the Majesty of heaven, He whom cherub and shining seraph delighted to adore -humbled Himself to uplift fallen man; that He bore the guilt and shame of sin, and the hiding of His Father’s face, till the woes of a lost world broke His heart and crushed out His life on Calvary’s cross. That the Maker of all worlds, the Arbiter of all destinies, should lay aside His glory and humiliate Himself from love to man will ever excite the wonder and adoration of the universe. As the nations of the saved look upon their Redeemer and behold the eternal glory of the Father shining in His countenance; as they behold His throne, which is from everlasting to everlasting, and know that His kingdom is to have no end, they break forth in rapturous song: ‘Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by His own most precious blood!’

“The mystery of the cross explains all other mysteries. In the light that streams from Calvary the attributes of God which had filled us with fear and awe appear beautiful and attractive. Mercy, tenderness, and parental love are seen to blend with holiness, justice, and power. While we behold the majesty of His throne, high and lifted up, we see His character in its gracious manifestations, and comprehend, as never before, the significance of that endearing title, ‘Our Father,’

“It will be seen that He who is infinite in wisdom could devise no plan for our salvation except the sacrifice of His Son. The compensation for this sacrifice Is the joy of peopling the earth with ransomed beings, holy, happy, and immortal. The result of the Savior’s conflict with the powers of darkness is joy to the redeemed, redounding to the glory of God throughout eternity. And such is the value of the soul that the Father is satisfied with the price paid; and Christ Himself, beholding the fruits of His great sacrifice, is satisfied,”-Great Controversy, 651:1652:2,

THE SENTENCING JUDGMENT

The antitypical day of atonement was the Investigative judgment; It examined the records to see who, among those professedly accepting Christ as their Savior, should be redeemed.

The millennium judgment is the sentencing judgment; It determines how much punishment should be allotted to each person who has been lost. The post-millennial judgment will be the executive judgment; at that time the decisions of the earlier judgments against the wicked will be put into effect.

1 - The sentencing judgment takes place.

“Then I saw thrones, and Jesus and the redeemed saints sat upon them; and the saints reigned as kings and priests unto God. Christ, in union with His people, judged the wicked dead, comparing their acts with the statute book, the Word of God, and deciding every case according to the deeds done in the body. Then they meted out to the wicked the portion, which they must suffer, according to their works; and it was written against their names in the book of death. Satan also and his angels were judged by Jesus and the saints. Satan’s punishment was to be far greater than that of those whom he had deceived.” Early Writings, 290:3-291 :O.

2 - The judgment of the wicked.

“During the thousand years between the first and the second resurrection the judgment of the wicked takes place. . It is at this time that, as foretold by Paul, ‘the saints shall judge the world.’ 1 Corinthians 6:2. In union with Christ they judge the wicked, comparing their acts with the statute book, the Bible, and deciding every case according to the deeds done in the body. Then the portion which the wicked must suffer is meted out, according to their works; and it is recorded against their names in the book of death. Satan also and evil angels are judged by Christ and His people,”-Great Controversy, 660:4-661:1.

3 - Raised for the executive judgment,

“At the close of the thousand years the second resurrection will take place. Then the wicked will be raised from the dead and appear before God for the execution of ‘the judgment written. ‘Thus the revelator, after describing the resurrection of the righteous, says: ‘The rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished,’ Revelation 20:5. And Isaiah declares, concerning the wicked: ‘They shall be gathered together, as prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut .up in the prison, and after many days shall they be visited.’ Isaiah 24:22.” Great Controversy, 661:2.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and Is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

SECOND COMING

The Special Resurrection. - “The sound of music is heard, and as it nears, the graves are opened, and the dead are raised, and there are thousands of thousands and ten thousand times ten thousand of angels that compose that glory and encircle the Son of man. Those who have acted the most prominent part in the rejection of Christ come forth to see Him as He is, and those who have rejected Christ come up to see the saints glorified, and it is at that time that the saints are changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. The very ones who placed upon Him the purple robe and put the crown of thorns upon His brow, and those who put the nails through His hands and feet, look upon Him and wail..

“When Christ comes to gather to Himself those who have been faithful, the last trump will sound, and the whole earth, from the summits of the loftiest mountains to the lowest recesses of the deepest mines will hear. The righteous dead will hear the sound of the trump, and will come forth from their graves to be clothed with immortality and to meet their Lord.” -Special Testimonies B, 24:02.

RESURRECTION

The Work does Not Cease In this Life. “Your work, my work, will not cease with this life. For a little while we may rest in the grave, but when the call comes, we shall take up our work in the kingdom of God to advance the glory of Christ. But this holy work must be begun upon earth.”-Manuscript 48, 1899, p. 7. (“Work in Christ’s Lines, “March 29, 1899). [See also: OHC 107.]

TRANSLATION

Then Gifted with a Higher Nature. - “When Christ comes, He takes those who have purified their souls by obeying the truth. . This mortal shall put on immortality, and these corruptible bodies, subject to disease, will be changed from mortal to immortal. We shall then be gifted with a higher nature. The bodies of all who purify their souls by obeying the truth shall be glorified. They have fully received and believed in Jesus Christ.” Manuscript 96, March 24, 1906, p. 9.

ON THE SEA OF GLASS

Precious Souls Will Respond. - “When the redeemed stand before the throne of God to answer to their names, there will be precious souls there who will respond because of the faithful, patient efforts made in their behalf, the entreaties and urgent persuasions to flee to the stronghold. Thus those who are laborers together with God will receive their reward.”- Letter 74, 1900, pp. 8.9. (To J.H. Kellogg, May 20, 1900).

The Third Advent

This study begins with the third advent of Christ to Planet Earth, and ends with the final destruction of the wicked. It is an important subject, which we should understand.

CHRIST AND THE REDEEMED RETURNS TO THE EARTH

1 - Christ returns to the earth.

“At the close of the thousand years, Christ again returns to the earth. He is accompanied by the host of the redeemed and attended by a retinue of angels.”-Great Controversy, 662:1.

CHRIST DESCENDS UPON THE MOUNT OF OLIVES

1 - He descends upon the very mountain from whence He earlier ascended to heaven.

“Christ descends upon the Mount of Olives, whence, after His resurrection, He ascended, and where angels repeated the promise of His return. Says the prophet: ‘The Lord my God shall come, and all the saints with Thee.” “And His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof, . . and there shall be a very great valley.’ .. - Great Controversy, 662:3-663:O.

THE CITY OF GOD DESCENDS

1 - The City comes down through the region of Orion.

“Dark, heavy clouds came up and clashed against each other. The atmosphere parted and rolled back; then we could lookup through the open space in Orion, whence came the voice of God. The Holy City will come down through that open space.” -Early Writings, 41:2.

Note: What Is the “open space in Orion”? It is very easy to assume something that is not stated. It is definitely located somewhere in the region of Orion constellation. but that is one of the largest of constellations -and we are not told that the “open space” is the Great Nebula in Orion, or a portion of it. Therefore we can guess that the “open space in Orion” may be the Orion Nebula. But we should keep in mind that Inspiration never said so.

According to Early Writings 41, the Voice of God, which delivers the saints, will sound from the area of this constellation, and the City of God will come down through that part of the sky at Christ’s third advent.

It is likely that, at His second advent, Christ will also return through that area -but we are not specifically told that. It is nice to think that the Great Nebula is the passageway to heaven, but keep in mind that we are nowhere told in the inspired books that it is.

2 - The immense City is welcomed by God’s children.

“After the judgment of the wicked dead had been finished, at the end of the one thousand years, Jesus left the city, and the saints and a train of the angelic host followed Him. Jesus descended upon a great mountain, which as soon as His feet touched it, parted asunder and became a mighty plain. Then we looked up and saw the great and beautiful city, with twelve foundations, and twelve gates, three on each side, and an angel at each gate. We cried out, ‘The city! the great city! It is coming down from God out of heaven!’ And it came down in all its splendor and dazzling glory and settled in the mighty plain which Jesus had prepared for it.” –Early Writings, 291:1.

3 - It comes to rest upon the place Jesus has purified for it. Christ and His people enter it.

“As the New Jerusalem, in its dazzling splendor, comes down out of heaven, It rests upon the place purified and made ready to receive It, and Christ, with His people and the angels, enters the Holy City.” - Great Controversy, 663:O.

CHRIST RAISES THE DEAD TO LIFE

1 - Jesus and His people leave the City, and He raises the dead.

“Then Jesus and all the retinue of holy angels, and all the redeemed saints, left the city. The angels surrounded their Commander and escorted Him on His way, and the train of redeemed saints followed. Then, in terrible, fearful majesty, Jesus called forth the wicked dead; and they came up with the same feeble, sickly bodies that went into the grave. What a spectacle! What a scene! At the first resurrection all came forth in immortal bloom; but at the second the marks of the curse are visible on all. The kings and noblemen of the earth, the mean and low, the learned and unlearned, come forth together.” -Early Writings, 292:1.

2 - Jesus calls the wicked dead to arise, and they involuntarily admit His lordship.

“He bids the wicked dead arise to receive their doom. They come forth, a mighty host, numberless as the sands of the sea. What a contrast to those who were raised at the first resurrection! The righteous were clothed with immortal youth and beauty. The wicked bear the traces of disease and death.

“Every eye in that vast multitude is turned to behold the glory of the Son of God. With one voice the wicked hosts exclaim: “Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord!” It is not love to Jesus that inspires this utterance. The force of truth urges the words from unwilling lips. As the wicked went into their graves, so they come forth with the same enmity to Christ and the same spirit of rebellion. They are to have no new probation in which to remedy the defects of their past lives. Nothing would be gained by this. A lifetime of transgression has not softened their hearts. A second probation, were it given them, would be occupied as was the first in evading the requirements of God and exciting rebellion against Him.”-Great Controversy, 662:1-2.

3 - Then they flee and seek to hide from His face.

“All behold the Son of man; and those very men who despised and mocked Him, who put the crown of thorns upon His sacred brow, and smote Him with the reed, behold Him in all His kingly majesty. Those who spit upon Him in the hour of His trial now turn from his piercing gaze and from the glory of His countenance. Those who drove the nails through His hands and feet now look upon the marks of His crucifixion. Those who thrust the spear into His side behold the marks of their cruelty on His body. And they know that He is the very one whom they crucified and derided in His expiring agony. And then there arises one long protracted wall of agony, as they flee to hide from the presence of the King of kings and Lord of lords.

“All are seeking to hide in the rocks, to shield themselves from the terrible glory of Him whom they once despised. And, overwhelmed and pained with His majesty and exceeding glory, they with one accord raise their voices, and with terrible distinctness exclaim, ‘Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord!’ “-Early Writings, 292:1-2.

4 - Jesus and His children again enter the City. Satan resumes his work with the wicked.

“Then Jesus and the holy angels, accompanied by all the saints, again go to the city, and the bitter lamentations and wailings of the doomed wicked fill the air. Then I saw that Satan again commenced his work. He passed around among his subjects, and made the weak and feeble strong, and told them that he and his angels were powerful.”-Early Writings, 298:1.

SATAN LAYS PLANS WITH THE WICKED

1 - Gradually, they prepare for a single, overmastering onslaught against the City.

“He pointed to the countless millions who had been raised. There were mighty warriors and kings who were well skilled in battle and who had conquered kingdoms. And there were mighty giants and valiant men who had never lost a battle. There was the proud, ambitious Napoleon, whose approach had caused kingdoms to tremble. There stood men of lofty stature and dignified bearing, who had fallen in battle while thirsting to conquer. As they come forth from their graves, they resume the current of their thoughts where it ceased in death. They possess the same desire to conquer which ruled when they fell. Satan consults with his angels, and then with those kings and conquerors and mighty men. Then he looks over the vast army, and tells them that the company in the city is small and feeble, and that they can go up and take it, and cast out its inhabitants, and possess its riches and glory themselves.

“Satan succeeds In deceiving them, and all immediately begin to prepare themselves for battle. There are many skillful men in that vast army, and they construct all kinds of implements of war.”-Early Writings, 293:1-2.

2 - He inspires them with courage, and they follow his directions.

“Now Satan prepares for a last mighty struggle for the supremacy. While deprived of his power and cut off from his work of deception, the prince of evil was miserable and dejected; but as the wicked dead are raised and he sees the vast multitudes upon his side, his hopes revive, and he determines not to yield the great controversy. He will marshal all the armies of the lost under his banner and through them endeavor to exe-cute his plans. The wicked are Satan’s captives. In rejecting Christ they have accepted the rule of the rebel leader. They are ready to receive his suggestions and to do his bidding. Yet, true to his early cunning, he does not acknowledge himself to be Satan. He claims to be the prince who is the rightful owner of the world and whose inheritance has been unlawfully wrested from him. He represents himself to his deluded subjects as a redeemer, assuring them that his power has brought them forth from their graves and that he is about to rescue them from the most cruel tyranny. The presence of Christ having been removed, Satan works wonders to support his claims. He makes the weak strong and inspires all with his own spirit and energy. He proposes to lead them against the camp of the saints and to take possession of the City of God. With fiend-ish exultation he points to the unnumbered millions who have been raised from the dead and declares that as their leader he is well able to overthrow the city and regain his throne and his kingdom.

“In that vast throng are multitudes of the long lived race that existed before the Flood; men of lofty stature and giant intellect, who, yielding to the control of fallen angels, devoted all their skill and knowledge to the exaltation of themselves; men whose wonderful works of art led the world to idolize their genius, but whose cruelty and evil inventions, defiling the earth and defacing the image of God, caused Him to blot them from the face of His creation. There are kings and generals who conquered nations, valiant men who never lost a battle, proud, ambitious warriors whose approach made kingdoms tremble. In death these experienced no change. As they come up from the grave, they resume the current of their thoughts just where it ceased. They are actuated by the same desire to conquer that ruled them when they fell.

“Satan consults with his angels, and then with these kings and conquerors and mighty men. They look upon the strength and numbers on their side, and declare that the army within the city is small in comparison with theirs, and that it can be overcome. They lay their plans to take possession of the riches and glory of the New Jerusalem. All immediately begin to prepare for battle. Skillful artisans construct implements of war. Military leaders, famed for their success, marshal the throngs of warlike men into companies and divisions.”-Great Controversy, 663:1-664:2.

THE IMMENSE ARMY MARCHES TO THE CITY

1 - After extensive preparations, the army marches to the City.

“At last the order to advance is given, and the countless host moves on -an army such as was never summoned by earthly conquerors, such as the combined forces of all ages since war began on earth could never equal. Satan, the mightiest of warriors, leads the van, and his angels unite their forces for this final struggle. Kings and warriors are in his train, and the multitudes follow in vast companies, each under its ap-pointed leader. With military precision the serried ranks advance over the earth’s broken and uneven surface to the City of God. By command of Jesus, the gates of the New Jerusalem are closed, and the armies of Satan surround the city and make ready for the onset.” -Great Controversy, 664:3.

Note: Regarding this matter of when the gates are shut: In Early Writings, 41, Jesus and the redeemed leave the City and they watch as He raises the dead; then they go back into the city. After that, an unspecified period of time -probably covering a number of years -is spent by the wicked in preparing for war (Great Controversy, page 662:1-664:2). Then they begin marching toward the City -and Jesus at that time gives orders to shut the gates (Great Controversy, page 664:3)

2 - Armed with all kinds of weapons, a fierce conflict Is expected.

“Then with Satan at their head, the multitude move on. Kings and warriors follow close after Satan, and the multitude follow after in companies. Each company has its leader, and order is observed as they march over the broken surface of the earth to the Holy City. Jesus closes the gates of the city, and this vast army surround it, and place themselves in battle array, expecting a fierce conflict.” -Early Writings, 293:2.

CHRIST APPEARS ON A THRONE HIGH ABOVE THE CITY

1 - Amid vast power and majesty, Christ appears to the view of the lost.

“Now Christ again appears to the view of His enemies. Far above the city, upon a foundation of burnished gold, is a throne, high and lifted up. Upon this throne sits the Son of God, and around Him are the subjects of His kingdom. The power and majesty of Christ no language can describe, no pen portray. The glory of the Eternal Father is enshrouding His Son. The brightness of His presence fills the City of God, and flows out beyond the gates, flooding the whole earth with its radiance.”-Great Controversy, 665:1.

2 - Awed by the truth of the situation, the courage of the wicked fails them.

“And as they witness the splendor of their glittering crowns and see their faces radiant with glory, reflecting the image of Jesus, and then behold the unsurpassed glory and majesty of the King of kings and Lord of lords, their courage falls.” -Early Writings, 294:O.

3 GROUPS OF REDEEMED SURROUND THEIR LORD

1 - Around Jesus are the most devoted, consistently faithful, the martyrs, and the great multitude.

“Nearest the throne are those who were once zealous in the cause of Satan, but who, plucked as brands from the burning, have followed their Savior with deep, intense devotion. Next are those who perfected Christian characters in the midst of falsehood and infidelity, those who honored the law of God when the Christian world declared it void, and the millions, of all ages, who were martyred for their faith. And beyond is the ‘great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, . . before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands.’ Revelation 7:9. Their warfare Is ended, their victory won. They have run the race and reached the prize. The palm branch in their hands is a symbol of their triumph, the white robe an emblem of the spotless righteousness of Christ which now is theirs.” -Great Controversy, 665:2.

THEY SING PRAISES TO THEIR GOD

1 - Although with millions of armed wicked surrounding them, the redeemed, secure in the protection of Jesus, raise a grateful song of praise. Undeceived by Satan, they well know that the wicked are powerless to cause them harm.

“The redeemed raise a song of praise that echoes and re-echoes through the vaults of heaven: “Salvation to our God which sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.” Verse 10. And angel and seraph unite their voices in adoration. As the redeemed have beheld the power and malignity of Satan, they have seen, as never before, that no power but that of Christ could have made them conquerors. In all that shining throng there are none to ascribe salvation to themselves, as if they had prevailed by their own power and goodness. Nothing is said of what they have done or suffered; but the burden of every song, the keynote of every anthem, is: Salvation to our God and unto the Lamb.” -Great Controversy, 665:3.

THE FINAL CORONATION OF CHRIST OCCURS

1 - All power and dominion are given into the hand of Christ.

“In the presence of the assembled inhabitants of earth and heaven the final coronation of the Son of God takes place.” -Great Controversy, 666:1.

CHRIST WILL BE THE JUDGE

1 - He who died for the wicked will be their Judge.

“God has committed all judgment unto the Son, for without controversy He is God manifest in the flesh.

“God designed that the Prince of sufferers in humanity should be judge of the whole world. He who came from the heavenly courts to save man from eternal death; . . He who submitted to be arraigned before an earthly tribunal, and who suffered the ignominious death of the cross- He alone is to pronounce the sentence of reward or of punishment. He who submitted to the suffering and humiliation of the cross here, in the counsel of God is to have the fullest compensation, and ascend the throne acknowledged by all the heavenly universe as the King of saints. He has undertaken the work of salvation, and shown before unfallen worlds and the heavenly family that the work He has begun He is able to complete..

“In the day of final punishment and reward, both saints and sinners will recognize in Him who was crucified the Judge of all living.. solemn will be the day of final decision. . Probationary time is granted us; opportunities and privileges are given us, to make our calling and election sure. How we should prize this precious time, and improve every talent God has given, that we may be faithful stewards over ourselves.”Maranatha, 341:3-5.

THE WORLDS WILL VIEW PROCEEDINGS OF THIS JUDGMENT

1 - The entire universe is empowered to behold this final judgment of the wicked.

“In His teachings. Christ sought to impress men with the certainty of the coming judgment, and with its publicity. This is not the Judgment of a few Individuals, or even of a nation, but of a whole world of human intelligences, of accountable beings. It is to be held in the presence of other worlds, that the love, the integrity, the service, of man for God, may be honored to the highest degree. There will be no lack of glory and honor. . The law of God will be revealed in its majesty; and those who have stood in defiant rebellion against its holy precepts will understand that the law that they have discarded, and despised and trampled underfoot is God’s standard of character..

“In this speck of a world, the heavenly universe manifests the greatest interest; for Jesus paid an infinite price for the souls of its inhabitants.” -Maranatha, 341:1-2.

THE BOOKS OF RECORD ARE OPENED

1 - The judgment at the great white throne begins.

“And now, invested with supreme majesty and power, the King of kings pronounces sentence upon the rebels against His government and executes justice upon those who have transgressed His law and oppressed His people. Says the prophet of God: ‘I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.’ Revelation 20:11-12.” -Great Controversy, 666:1.

2 - Angels are now preparing records for that final judgment.

“Angels of God are taking a daguerreotype (photos) of the character just as accurately as the artist takes the likeness of the human features; and. . it is from this that we are to be judged!” -Maranatha, 340:2.

3 - It is an exact record of character and actions.

“In the case of each individual there is a process going forward which is far more wonderful than that which transfers the features to the polished plate of the artist. The art of the photographer merely imprints the likeness on perishable substance; but in the life-record the character is faithfully delineated, and this record, however dark, can never be effaced by the blood of the atoning sacrifice,”-Maranatha, 340:1.

THE WICKED KNOW THE RECORDS

1 - As soon as the books are opened and Jesus gazes upon them, each person’s record is etched into his own mind.

“As soon as the books of record are opened, and the eye of Jesus looks upon the wicked, they are conscious of every sin which they have ever committed. They see just where their feet diverged from the path of purity and holiness, just how far pride and rebellion have carried them in the violation of the law of God. The seductive temptations which they encouraged by indulgence in sin, the blessings perverted, the mes-sengers of God despised, the warnings rejected, the waves of mercy beaten back by the stubborn, unrepentant heart-all appear as if written in letters of fire.”-Great Controversy, 666:2.

“All will appear as a real life-picture,” Maranatha, 340:4.

2 - It will all be recalled to their minds.

“Memory will be true and vivid in condemnation of the guilty one, who in that day is found wanting, The mind will recall all the thoughts and acts of the past; the whole life will come in review like the scenes in a panorama,” Maranatha, 340:6.

THE RECORDS WILL ALSO BE OPEN TO EVERYONE ELSE

1 - All the universe will understand why these people were not saved.

“When the Judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened, there will be many astonishing disclosures. Men will not then appear as they appear to the human eyes and finite judgments. Secret sins will then be laid open to the view of all. Motives and intentions which have been hidden in the dark chambers of the heart will be revealed.” -Maranatha, 340:3.

2 - There will be no question about the accuracy of the judgment.

“In that solemn and awful hour the unfaithfulness of the husband will be opened to the wife, and the unfaithfulness of the wife, to the husband. Parents will then learn, for the first time, what was the real character of their children, and children will see the errors and mistakes that marked the lives of their parents. The man who robbed his neighbor through false representations, is not to escape with his ill-gotten gains. God has an exact record in His books, of every unjust account and every unfair dealing.” - Maranatha, 340:5.

THE WICKED ARE SHOWN CHRIST’S LIFE AND DEATH

1 - The entire life of Christ will be shown to each lost soul.

“Above the throne is revealed the cross; and like a panoramic view appear the scenes of Adam’s temptation and fall, and the successive steps In ‘the great plan of redemption. The Savior’s lowly birth; His early life of simplicity and obedience; His baptism in Jordan; the fast and temptation in the wilderness; His public ministry, unfolding to men heaven’s most precious blessings; the days crowded with deeds of love and mercy, the nights of prayer and watching in the solitude of the mountains; the plottings of envy, hate, and malice which repaid His benefits; the awful, mysterious agony in Gethsemane beneath the crushing weight of the sins of the whole world; His betrayal into the hands of the murderous mob; the fearful events of that night of horror-the unresisting prisoner, forsaken by His best-loved disciples, rudely hurried through the streets of Jerusalem; the Son of God exultingly displayed before Annas, arraigned in the high priest’s palace, in the judgment hall of Pilate, before the cowardly and cruel Herod, mocked, insulted, tortured, and condemned to die -all are vividly portrayed.

“And now before the swaying multitude are revealed the final scenes-the patient Sufferer treading the path to Calvary; the Prince of heaven hanging upon the cross; the haughty priests and the jeering rabble deriding His expiring agony; the supernatural darkness; the heaving earth, the rent rocks, the open graves, marking the moment when the world’s Redeemer yielded up His life.

“The awful spectacle appears just as It was. Satan, his angels, and his subjects have no power to turn from the picture of their own work. Each actor recalls the part which he performed. Herod, who slew the innocent children of Bethlehem that he might destroy the King of Israel; the base Herodias, upon whose guilty soul rests the blood of John the Baptist; the weak, timeserving Pilate; the mocking soldiers; the priests and rulers and the maddened throng who cried, ‘His blood be on us, and on our children” -all behold the enormity of their guilt. They vainly seek to hide from the divine majesty of His countenance, outshining the glory of the sun, while the redeemed cast their crowns at the Savior’s feet, exclaiming: ‘He died for me” “-Great Controversy, 666:3-667:2.

THOSE WHO ARE IN THE RANKS OF THE WICKED

1 - Nero’s mother ruined the character of her son; when he became emperor of Rome, in a whim he had her strangled to death. Papist priests and prelates will also be there.

“Amid the ransomed throng are the apostles of Christ, the heroic Paul, the ardent Peter, the loved and loving John, and their truehearted brethren, and with them the vast host of martyrs; while outside the walls, with every vile and abominable thing, are those by whom they were persecuted, imprisoned, and slain. There Is Nero, that monster of cruelty and vice, beholding the joy and exaltation of those whom he once tortured, and in whose extreme anguish he found satanic delight. His mother is there to witness the result of her own work; to see how the evil stamp of character transmitted to her son, the passions encouraged and developed by her Influence and example, have borne fruit in crimes that caused the world to shudder.

“There are papist priests and prelates, who claimed to be Christ’s ambassadors, yet employed the rack, the dungeon, and the stake to control the consciences of His people. There are the proud pontiffs who exalted themselves above God and presumed to change the law of the Most High. Those pretended fathers of the church have an account to render to God from which they would fain be excused. Too late they are made to see that the Omniscient One is jealous of His law and that He will in no wise clear the guilty. They learn now that Christ identifies His interest with that of His suffering people; and they feel the force of His own words: ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.’ Matthew 25:4.”-Great Controversy, 667:3-668:1.

2 - Napoleon will be there.

“There was the proud, ,ambitious Napoleon, whose approach had caused kingdoms to tremble.”-Early Writings, 293:1.

DEATH IS PRONOUNCED AGAINST THE WICKED

1 - The sentence of eternal death is spoken.” The whole wicked world stand arraigned at the bar of God on the charge of high treason against the government of heaven. They have none to plead their cause; they are without excuse; and the sentence of eternal death is pronounced against them. If -Great Controversy, 668:2.

THE WICKED KNOW THAT GOD IS RIGHT

1 - At last, the wicked fully recognize the truth of the situation.

“Jesus speaks with majesty, saying, ‘Behold, ye sinners, the reward of the just! And behold, My redeemed, the reward of the wicked!’ The vast multitude behold the glorious company on the walls of the city. And as they witness the splendor of their glittering crowns and see their faces radiant with glory, reflecting the image of Jesus, and then behold the unsurpassed glory and majesty of the King of kings and Lord of lords, their courage falls. A sense of the treasure and glory which they have lost rushes upon them, and they realize that the wages of sin is death. They see the holy, happy company whom they have despised, clothed with glory, honor, immortality, and eternal life, while they are outside the city with every mean and abominable thing.” -Early Writings, 294:O.

2 - They cry out in despair.

“It is now evident to all that the wages of sin is not noble Independence and eternal life, but slavery, ruin, and death. The wicked see what they have forfeited by their life of rebellion. The far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory was despised when offered them; but how desirable it now appears. ‘All this, ‘ cries the lost soul, ‘I might have had; but I chose to put these things far from me. Oh, strange infatuation! I have exchanged peace, happiness, and honor for wretchedness, infamy, and despair.’ All see that their exclusion from heaven is just. By their lives they have declared: ‘We will not have this Man [Jesus] to reign over us.’ “ -Great Controversy, 668:3.

3 - All admit they were wrong and God and His law have always been right.

“As if entranced, the wicked have looked upon the coronation of the Son of God. They see in His hands the tables of the divine law, the statutes which they have despised and transgressed. They witness the outburst of wonder, rapture, and adoration from the saved; and as the wave of melody sweeps over the multitudes without the city, all with one voice exclaim, ‘Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints’ (Revelation 15:3); and, failing prostrate, they worship the Prince of life.” -Great Controversy, 668:4-669:O.

MEMORIES AND FACTS FILL HIS MIND

1 - As the truth of the situation forces itself upon him, Satan seems unable to speak or move.

“Satan seems paralyzed as he beholds the glory and majesty of Christ. He who was once a covering cherub remembers whence he has fallen. A shining seraph, ‘son of the morning;’ how changed, how degraded! From the council where once he was honored, he is forever excluded. He sees another now standing near to the Father, veiling His glory. He has seen the crown placed upon the head of Christ by an angel of lofty sta-ture and majestic presence, and he knows that the exalted position of this angel might have been his.

“Memory recalls the home of his Innocence and purity, the peace and content that were his until he indulged in murmuring against God, and envy of Christ. His accusations, his rebellion, his deceptions to gain the sympathy and support of the angels, his stubborn persistence in making no effort for self-recovery when God would have granted him forgiveness -all come vividly before him. He reviews his work among men and its results -the enmity of man toward his fellow man, the terrible destruction of life, the rise and fall of kingdoms, the overturning of thrones, the long succession of tumults, conflicts, and revolutions. He recalls his constant efforts to oppose the work of Christ and to sink man lower and lower. He sees that his hellish plots have been powerless to destroy those who have put their trust in Jesus. As Satan looks upon his kingdom, the fruit of his toil, he sees only failure and ruin. He has led the multitudes to believe that the City of God would be an easy prey; but he knows that this is false. Again and again, in the progress of the great controversy, he has been defeated and compelled to yield. He knows too well the power and majesty of the Eternal.

“The aim of the great rebel has ever been to justify himself and to prove the divine government responsible for the rebellion. To this end he has bent all the powers of his giant intellect. He has worked deliberately and systematically, and with marvelous success, leading vast multitudes to accept his version of the great controversy which has been so long in progress. For thousands of years this chief of conspiracy has palmed off falsehood for truth. But the time has now come when the rebellion is to be finally defeated and the history and character of Satan disclosed.” -Great Controversy, 669:1-670:1.

NOW HE FINALLY ADMITS IT ALSO

1 - Satan bows and confesses that, throughout the great controversy, God has been right, he himself wrong, and the sentence is just.

“Satan sees that his voluntary rebellion has unfitted him for heaven. He has trained his powers to war against God; the purity, peace, and harmony of heaven would be to him supreme torture. His accusations against the mercy and Justice of God are now silenced. The reproach which he has endeavored to cast upon Jehovah rests wholly upon himself. And now Satan bows down and confesses the Justice of his sentence.” -Great Controversy, 670:2.

THE GREAT CONTROVERSY IS ENDED

1 - The great controversy between Christ and Satan is now at an end, for all creatures everywhere know and acknowledge the eternal truths of God’s character and His law.

“‘Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? for Thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before Thee; for Thy judgments are made manifest.’ Verse 4.

Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy has now been made plain. The results of rebellion, the fruits of setting aside the divine statutes, have been laid open to the view of all created intelligences. The working out of Satan’s rule in contrast with the government of God has been presented to the whole universe. Satan’s own works have condemned him. God’s wisdom, His justice, and His goodness stand fully vindicated. It is seen that all His dealings in the great controversy have been conducted with re-spect to the eternal good of His people and the good of all the worlds that He has created. ‘All Thy works shall praise Thee, a Lord; and Thy saints shall bless Thee.’ Psalm 145:10. The history of sin will stand to all eternity as a witness that with the existence of God’s law is bound up the happiness of all the beings He has created. With all the facts of the great controversy in view, the whole universe, both loyal and rebellious, with one accord declare: ‘Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints.’

“Before the universe has been clearly presented the great sacrifice made by the Father and the Son in man’s behalf. The hour has come when Christ occupies His rightful position and Is glorified above principalities and powers and every name that Is named.” -Great Controversy, 670:3-671:1.

CHRIST LOVE FOR HIS FAITHFUL ONES

1 - Turning to the redeemed, Christ declares His love and protection over them.

“It was for the joy that was set before Him that He might bring many sons unto glory -that He endured the cross and despised the shame. And inconceivably great as was the sorrow and the shame, yet greater is the joy and the glory. He looks upon the redeemed, renewed in His own image, every heart bearing the perfect impress of the divine, every face reflecting the likeness of their King. He beholds in them the result of the travail of His soul, and He Is satisfied. Then, in a voice that reaches the assembled multitudes of the righteous and the wicked, He declares: ‘Behold the purchase of My blood! For these I suffered, for these I died, that they might dwell in My presence throughout eternal ages. ‘ And the song of praise ascends from the white-robed ones about the throne: ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing.’ Revelation 5:12.”-Great Controversy, 671:1.

SATAN’S LAST DESPERATE REBELLION

1 - Satan rushes in among his followers in one last desperate effort to incite them to battle. But none are willing to acknowledge his leadership.

“Notwithstanding that Satan has been constrained to acknowledge God’s justice and to bow to the supremacy of Christ, his character remains unchanged. The spirit of rebellion, like a mighty torrent, again bursts forth. Filled with frenzy, he determines not to yield the great controversy. The time has come for a last desperate struggle against the King of heaven. He rushes into the midst of his subjects and endeavors to inspire them with his own fury and arouse them to instant battle. But of all the countless millions whom he has allured into rebellion, there are none now to acknowledge his supremacy. His power is at an end. The wicked are filled with the same hatred of God that inspires Satan; but they see that their case is hopeless, that they cannot prevail against Jehovah.” Great Controversy, 671:2-672:O.

WICKED ANGELS TURN ON SATAN

1 - Men and devils turn on Satan.

“Their rage is kindled against Satan and those who have been his agents in deception, and with the fury of demons they turn upon them.”-Great Controversy, 672:O.

GOD SENDS FIRE FROM HEAVEN UPON THE WICKED

1 - Fire from Heaven and flames from the earth.

“Fire comes down from God out of heaven. The earth is broken up. The weapons concealed in its depths are drawn forth. Devouring flames burst from every yawning chasm. The very rocks are on fire. The day has come that shall burn as an oven. The elements melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein are burned up. Malachi 4:1; 2 Peter 3:10. The earth’s surface seems one molten mass -a vast, seething lake of fire. It is the time of the judgment and perdition of ungodly men -’the day of the Lord’s vengeance, and the year of recompenses for the controversy of Zion.’ Isaiah 34:8.” Great Controversy, 672:2-673:O.

2 - All the wicked are consumed.

“Fire from God out of heaven is rained upon them, and the great men, and mighty men, the noble, the poor and miserable, are all consumed together.”-Early Writings, 294:1.

ALL ARE PUNISHED ACCORDANCING TO THEIR DEEDS

1 - The punishment will vary according to deeds.

“I saw that some were quickly destroyed, while others suffered longer. They were punished according to the deeds done in the body. Some were many days consuming, and just as long as there was a portion of them unconsumed, all the sense of suffering remained. Said the angel, ‘The worm of life shall not die; their fire shall not be quenched as long as there is the least particle for it to prey upon.

“Satan and his angels suffered long. Satan bore not only the weight and punishment of his own sins, but also of the sins of the redeemed host, which had been placed upon him; and he must also suffer for the ruin of souls which he had caused. Then I saw that Satan and all the wicked host were consumed, and the Justice of God was satisfied; and all the angelic host, and all the redeemed saints, with a loud voice said, ‘Amen!’ “-Early Writings, 294:1-295:O.

2 - Some cease to exist instantly; others live longer. In every case, a just sentence will be carried out.

“Some are destroyed as in a moment, while others suffer many days. All are punished ‘according to their deeds.’ The sins of the righteous having been transferred to Satan, he is made to suffer not only for his own rebellion, but for all the sins which he has caused God’s people to commit. His punishment is to be far greater than that of those whom he has deceived. After all have perished who fell by his deceptions, he is still to live and suffer on. In the cleansing flames the wicked are at last destroyed, root and branch -Satan the root, his followers the branches. The full penalty of the law has been visited; the demands of Justice have been met; and heaven and earth, beholding, declare the righteousness of Jehovah.” -Great Controversy, 673:1.

THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE IS AT REST

1 - Satan’s work is forever ended.

“Satan’s work of ruin is forever ended. For six thousand years he has wrought his will, filling the earth with woe and causing grief throughout the universe. The whole creation has groaned and travailed together in pain. Now God’s creatures are forever delivered from his presence and temptations. ‘The whole earth is at rest; and is quiet: they [the righteous] break forth into singing: Isaiah 14:7. And a shout of praise and triumph ascends from the whole loyal universe.” -Great Controversy, 673:2.

2 - The universe is forever rid of evil people.

“Said the angel, ‘Satan is the root, his children are the branches. They are now consumed root and branch. They have died an everlasting death. They are never to have a resurrection, and God will have a clean universe: “-Early Writings, 295:1.

3 - They shall be as though they had not been.

“Satan and all who have joined him in rebellion will be cut off. Sin and sinners will perish, root and branch (Malachi 4:1),-Satan the root, and his followers the branches. The word will be fulfilled to the prince of evil, ‘Because thou hast set your heart as the heart of God; . . I will destroy thee, O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire. . Thou shall be a terror, and never shall thou be any more: Then ‘the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shall diligently consider his place, and it shall not be;’ ‘they shall be as though they had not been.’ Ezekiel 28:6-19; Psalm 37:10; Obadiah 16.” -Desire of Ages, 763:4.

THE CITY OF GOD IS PROTECTED

1 - The people of God and the Holy City are protected while the fire destroys the wicked.

“While the earth was wrapped in the fire of destruction, the righteous abode safely In the Holy City. Upon those that had part in the first resurrection, the second death has no power. While God is to the wicked a consuming fire, He is to His people both a sun and a shield. Revelation 20:6; Psalm 84:11.

“ ‘I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away.’ Revelation 21: 1. The fire that consumes the wicked purifies the earth. Every trace of the curse is swept away. No eternally burning hell will keep before the ransomed the fearful consequences of sin.”-Great Controversy, 673:3-674:1.

2 - Not a single sign of the curse was visible throughout the earth’s surface.

“I then looked and saw the fire which had consumed the wicked, burning up the rubbish and purifying the earth. Again I looked and saw the earth purified. There was not a single sign of the curse.”-Early Writings, 295:1.

3 - We are told that, after the destruction of the wicked, it is “a new heaven and a new earth.” Everything in the world is purified. It is s new earth.

But in what way is it surrounded by a new heaven? The heavens are very much new, for Satan can no longer pester the inhabitants of the other worlds. Both heaven and earth have been liberated from his bothersome presence. Thus we see that it is a new heaven and a new earth.

THE MARKS ON CHRIST

1 - Only the marks on Christ will remain as an eternal reminder of what He did to save us -and the universe.

“One reminder alone remains: Our Redeemer will ever bear the marks of His crucifixion. Upon His wounded head, upon His side, His hands and feet, are the only traces of the cruel work that sin has wrought. Says the prophet, beholding Christ in His glory: ‘He had bright beams coming out of His side: and there was the hiding of His power.’ Habakkuk 3:4, margin. That pierced side whence flowed the crimson stream that reconciled man to God-there is the Savior’s glory, there ‘the hiding of His power,’ ‘Mighty to save,’ through the sacrifice of redemption, He was therefore strong to execute justice upon them that despised God’s mercy. And the tokens of His humiliation are His highest honor; through the eternal ages the wounds of Calvary will show forth His praise and declare His power.”-Great Controversy, 674:2.

THE FINAL DESTRUCTION OF SIN

1 - The basic issue in the controversy which Lucifer started so long before in heaven at the time of his fall, -had later spread to our planet.

But now, at last, the great controversy was over. It had been settled In every mind for eternity: As with everything else that He does, God’s law has been found to be good, and just, and right. All the universe now knows that there never was a reason for sin to arise in the first place or to continue as It did for so long.

“The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love,” Great Controversy, 678.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and Is some of the best material from that volume on topics given in this section.

FINAL JUDGMENT

Man Has No Right to Punish Transgressors, But God Does.- “The plea may be made that a loving Father would not see His children suffer punishment by fire while He had the power to relieve them. But God would, for the good of His subjects and for their safety, punish the transgressor. God does not work on the plan of man. He can do infinite justice, which man has no right to do . . [to) his fellow man. Noah would have displeased God to have drowned one of the scoffers and mockers that harassed him, but God drowned the vast world. Lot would have had no right to inflict punishment on his sons-in-law, but God could do it in strict justice.

God Will Carry Out His Threat to Punish Sinners. - “Who will say God will not do what He says He will do? Let God be true and every man a liar.” -Manuscript 5, 1876, pp. 2-5. (“The Days of Noah,” cir. 1876).

Everyone Will Have Had a Full Opportunity.- “God will never give up His rightful claim. He will never cease to command. However, you may be determined to refuse to obey, and, if you die following your own will, refusing the will of God, He will eventually justify the reasonableness of your condemnation before the assembled universe. Not one of the countless millions of the human family will stand alone before God pleading that he had done all that he could to comply with the conditions of salvation revealed in His Word, and yet he is unsaved. Everyone who fails to obtain the immortal life will be self condemned, with not an excuse to offer before God.”-Letter 6, 1877, p. 3. (To “Dear Niece Mary [Clough],” November 8, 1877).

Everyone Should Live in Reference to the Day of Judgment.-”[In Revelation 20:11-15] is presented before us the great and solemn day when the judgment is to sit and the books to be opened, and the dead are to be judged according to the things that are written in the books. I have questioned in my mind, as I have seen the people or our cities hurrying to and from business, whether they ever thought of the day of God that is just before us. Every one of us should be living with reference to the great day which is soon to come upon us.” -Manuscript 6a, 1886, pp. 1-8, 7-12. (“Prepare for the Judgment, “ a sermon preached in Oreboro, Sweden, June 27, 1886). [See also-7BC 41; 3SM 354-355; UL 192.]

God’s Punishment of Persecutors Will Be Proportionate to the Pain They Have Caused. - “The ruler of the universe bears long with the perversity of men, but He keeps a record of their works, and in proportion as they have caused pain to others, they will themselves be punished.

Persecutors of Commandment keepers Will Be Punished in Proportion to the Pain They Have Inflicted.-“God has said, ‘Touch not mine anointed, and do My prophets no harm’ (1 Chronicles 16:22). Men have borne false witness against God’s chosen ones. They have bruised their limbs with fetters and burnt them at the stake. The Lord will avenge his children.

As men have carried out the spirit and purposes of Satan in causing pain to human beings, so will they suffer. Thus will they perish who have done all in their power to compel men to transgress the law which God has commanded all to obey.” Manuscript 42, 1899, pp.1-3. (“Kept in Trial,” March 28, 1899). [See also: EV 266-267.]

The Coming Conflict Will Be the Most Terrible ever Seen, But Satan Will Be Defeated. - “We are living amid the perils of the last days. The conflict which is right upon us will be the most terrible ever seen. But though Satan is represented as being as strong as the ‘strong man armed,’ his overthrow will be complete, and everyone who unites with him in choosing apostasy rather than loyalty will perish with him.” Letter 28, 1900, pp. 2-3. (To “Brother and Sister [W.W.] Prescott,” February 17, 1900). [See also: Maranatha 191.]

As Plain as Noonday, the Impenitent See that They Have Leagued with Fallen Angels.- “Fallen men and fallen angels are sure to join in a desperate companionship. He who fell because of apostasy works constantly against goodness and obedience. He is leagued with those who refuse to keep God’s law. In the day of judgment, all this opens before the impenitent. Scene after scene passes before them. As plainly as the light of the noonday sun, they see what they might have been, had they cooperated with God instead of opposing Him.

Fallen Angels, Endowed With Higher Intelligence than Man, Will Realize what They Have Done.- “The picture cannot be changed. Their cases are forever decided. They must perish with the one whose ways and works they followed. A flash will come to all lost souls. They will see clearly the mystery of godliness, which during their lifetime they despised and hated. And fallen angels, endowed with higher intelligence than men, will realize what they have done in using their powers to lead human beings to choose deception and falsehood. All who have united with the deceiver, all who have learned his ways and practiced his deceptions, must perish with him.” -Manuscript 37, 1900, pp. 1-4. (“The Revelations of the Judgment,” July 9, 1900).

God’s Government Will Be Vindicated on the Largest Possible Scale et the Final Judgment.-”The final judgment is a most solemn, awful event. This must take place before the universe. To the Lord Jesus the Father has committed all judgment. He will declare the reward of loyalty to all who obey the law of Jeho-vah. God will be honored and His government vindicated and glorified, and that in the presence of the inhabitants of the unfallen worlds. On the largest possible scale will the government of God be vindicated and exalted. It is not the judgment of one individual or of one nation, but of the whole world. Oh, what a change will then be made in the understanding of all created beings. Then all will see the value of eternal life.

All the Righteous and All the Wicked Will Be Present.-”When God honors His commandment-keeping people, He would not have one of the enemies of truth and righteousness absent. And when the transgressors of His law receive their condemnations, He would have all the righteous behold the result of sin.”

The Jewish Leaders Will Recall Their Rejection of the Savior. -”When sinners are compelled to look upon Him who clothed His divinity in the garb of humanity, and who still wears that garb, their confusion is indescribable. They remember how His love was slighted and His compassion abused. They think of how Barabbas, a murderer and a robber, was chosen in His stead; how Jesus was crowned with thorns and scourged and crucified; how in the hours of His agony on the cross the priests and rulers taunted Him saying, ‘Let Him come down from the cross, and we will believe Him. He saves others, Himself He cannot save.’ (Matthew 27:42, 43; Mark 15:31). All the insults and despite offered to Christ, all the suffering caused to His disciples, will be as fresh in their recollection as when the satanic deeds were done. The voice which they heard so often in entreaty and persuasion will again sound in their ears as when the Savior spoke in the synagogue and on the street. Then those who pierced Him will call on the rocks and mountains to fall on them and hide them from the face of Him that sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb, for the great day of His wrath has come, and who shall be able to stand. (See Revelation 6:16-17).

In the Last Great Day the Character of Each Individual Will Be Distinctly Revealed.- “In that great day, all will see that their course of action decided their destiny. They will be rewarded or punished according as they have obeyed or violated the law of God. In that great day the character of each individual will be plainly and distinctly revealed. God will look into all the feelings and motives. No one can then occupy middle ground. Men and women are either saints or sinners, either entitled to a glorious life of eternity, or doomed to eternal death. What a scene that will be! The aggravated guilt of the world will be laid bare, and the voice of the eternal Judge will be heard saying, ‘Depart from Me. I never knew you.’

The Judgment Based on the Law.- “The judgment will be conducted in accordance with the rules given in order that man might have eternal life. The law of God, which men are now called upon to obey and make their rule of life, but which many refuse to accept, is the law by which they will be judged. We are judged by our works. Obedience or disobedience means everything to us.

In the Last Great Day, the Lost Will See That God’s Law Is as Exalted as His Throne. - “The last great day will witness the triumph of the raw of Jehovah. As the impenitent look upon the cross of Calvary, the scales fall from their eyes, and they see that which before they would not see. The law, God’s standard of right-eousness, is exalted, even as His throne is exalted. God Himself gives reverence to His law.”-Letter 191,1900, pp. 2, 9, 5-9. (To A.G. Daniells, October 11., 1900). {See also: Evangelism 220; TDG 296.}

Satan Continues to Be Deluded.- “Satan has not yet given up the idea that the world’s armies will be so large that they will overcome the heavenly host.”-Letter 90, 1906, p. 2. (“To the Brethren Assembled in Council at Graysville, Tennessee, “ March 6, 1906). {See also: TBC 975; CM 126; 3SM 122; TDG 74.}

There Is a Day Appointed.- “We are drawing near to the close of this earth’s history. The battle is growing daily more fierce. There is a day appointed when men who have bowed to the mandates of Satan will find themselves the subjects of the wrath of God, when the Judge of all the earth shall pronounce sentence against Satan and his adherents.”-Letter 244, 1907, p. 9. (To J. A. Burden, August 8, 1907).

Confession Will Be Made, Either Now or When Satan’s Army Encircles the Holy City.- “Confession must come sooner or later; if not voluntarily now, then finally before the universe and the multitude that shall compose Satan’s army encircling the city of God in the vain supposition that numbers will prevail. Those who persist in refusing to confess now, will then be forced to confess their errors; their unfaithfulness, underhanded cheating, and all their transgression of the law of God.”-Letter 136, 1906, p. 5. (To G.I. Butler, and A.G. Daniells, and G. A. Irwin, April 27, 1906). {See also: 2SM 53; 3SM 54; TDG 126.}

The Eternity Beyond

THE REWARD OF THE FAITHFUL!

This section is filled with “heaven quotes” from the Spirit of Prophecy. It is a project the present writer has wanted to do for many years.

The first part of this present section consists of some of the statements about heaven from the books, Great Controversy and Early Writings. It is given immediately below.

The second part is filled with quotations on this same topic (heaven and the new earth, plus the importance of striving to be there) from those and other published Spirit of Prophecy books. We will introduce the contents of that part when we come to it. Throughout this entire section, we will add no italics to the Spirit of Prophecy statements.

Here are some of the “heaven quotes” from Early Writings and Great Controversy:

THE HOME OF THE REDEEMED

“The time has come to which holy men have looked with longing since the flaming sword barred the first pair from Eden, the time for ‘the redemption of the purchased possession.’ Ephesians 1 :14. The earth originally given to man as his kingdom, betrayed by him into the hands of Satan, and so long held by the mighty foe, has been brought back by the great plan of redemption. All that was lost by sin has been restored. ‘Thus said the Lord. , that formed the earth and made it; He hath established it, He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited.’ Isaiah 45: 18. God’s original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the eternal abode of the redeemed, ‘The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever.’ Psalm 37:29.”-Great Controversy, 674:3.

“God’s entire universe was clean, and the great controversy was forever ended. Wherever we looked, every thing upon which the eye rested was beautiful and holy. And all the redeemed host, old and young, great and small, cast their glittering crowns at the feet of their Redeemer, and prostrated themselves in adoration before Him, and worshiped Him that liveth forever and ever, The beautiful new earth, with all its glory, was the eternal in heritance of the saints. The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, was then given to the saints of the Most High, who were to possess it forever, even forever and ever,”-Early Writings, 295:1.

IT WILL BE INDESCRIBABLY GLORIOUS

“ ‘Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.’ 1 Corinthians 2:9. Human language is inadequate to describe the reward of the righteous. It will be known only to those who behold it. No finite mind can comprehend the glory of the Paradise of God.” -Great Controversy, 675:O.

IT WILL BE A PEACEFUL HOME

“In the Bible the inheritance of the saved is called ‘a country.’ Hebrews 11:14-16. There the heavenly She-pherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters. The tree of life yields its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the service of the nations. There are ever flowing streams, clear as crystal, and beside them waving trees cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed of the Lord. There the wide-spreading plains swell into hills of beauty, and the mountains of God rear their lofty summits. On those peaceful plains, beside those living streams, God’s people, so long pilgrims and wanderers, shall find a home. “ ‘My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.’ “-Great Controversy, 675:1-2.

THERE WILL BE NO MORE PAIN, SORROW, OR DEATH

“Pain cannot exist in the atmosphere of heaven. There will be no more tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. ‘There shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying: . . for the former things are passed away.’ ‘The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick.’ “-Great Controversy, 676:1.

A VIEW OF THE NEW JERUSALEM

“With Jesus at our head we all descended from the city down to this earth, on a great and mighty mountain, which could not bear Jesus up, and it parted asunder, and there was a mighty plain. Then we looked up and saw the great city, with twelve foundations and twelve gates, three on each side, and an angel at each gate. We all cried out, ‘The city, the great city, it’s coming, it’s coming down from God out of heaven!’ And it came and settled on the place where we stood. Then we began to look at the glorious things outside of the city. There I saw most glorious houses, that had the appearance of silver, supported by four pillars set with pearls most glorious to behold. These were to be inhabited by the saints. In each was a golden shelf.

I saw many of the saints go into the houses, take off their glittering crowns and lay them on the shelf, then go out into the field by the houses to do something with the earth; not as we have to do with the earth here-no, no. A glorious light shone all about their heads, and they were continually shouting and offering praises to God.

“I saw another field full of all kinds of flowers, and as I plucked them, I cried out, ‘They will never fade” Next I saw a field of tall grass, most glorious to behold; it was living green and had a reflection of silver and gold as it waved proudly to the glory of King Jesus. Then we entered a field full of all kinds of beasts - the lion, the Iamb, the leopard, and the wolf, all together in perfect union. We passed through the midst of them, and they followed on peaceably after.

“Then we entered a wood, not like the dark woods we have here -no, no; but light, and all over glorious; the branches of the trees moved to and fro, and we all cried out, ‘We will dwell safely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods.’ “-Early Writings, 17:9-18:1.

“There is the New Jerusalem, the metropolis of the glorified new earth, ‘a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.’ ‘Her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal.’ ‘The nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it.’ Saith the Lord: ‘I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and joy in My people.’ ‘The tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself shall be with them, and be their God.’ Isaiah 62:3; Revelation 21:11,24; Isaiah 65:19; Revelation 21:3.

“In the City of God ‘there shall be no night.’ None will need or desire repose. There will be no weariness in doing the will of God and offering praise to His name. We shall ever feel the freshness of the morning and shall ever be far from its close. ‘And they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light.’ Revelation 22:5. The light of the sun will be superseded by a radiance which is not painfully dazzling, yet which immeasurably surpasses the brightness of our noontide. The glory of God and the Lamb floods the Holy City with unfading light. The redeemed walk in the sunless glory of perpetual day.” -Great Controversy, 676:2-9.

THE REDEEMED WILL COME INTO HIS PRESENCE

“ The people of God are privileged to hold open communion with the Father and the Son. ‘Now we see through a glass, darkly.’ 1 Corinthians 13:12. We behold the image of God reflected, as in a mirror, in the works of nature and in His dealings with men; but then we shall see Him face to face, without a dimming veil between. We shall stand in His presence and behold the glory of His countenance.”-Great Controversy, 676:4-677:O.

RESTORED TO THE TREE OF LIFE

“Restored to the tree of life in the long-lost Eden, the redeemed will ‘grow up’ (Malachi 4:2) to the full stature of a race in its primeval glory. The last lingering traces of the curse of sin will be removed, and Christ’s faithful ones will appear in ‘the beauty of the Lord our God,’ in mind and soul and body reflecting the perfect image of their Lord. Oh, wonderful redemption! long talked of, long hoped for, contemplated with eager anticipation, but never fully understood:’ -Great Controversy, 645:O.

THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF GOD WILL FOREVER INCREASE

“There the redeemed shall know, even as also they are known. The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together ‘the whole family in heaven and earth’ (Ephesians 3: 15) -these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed.

“There, immortal minds will contemplate with never-failing delight the wonders of creative power, the myst-eries of redeeming love. There will be no cruel, deceiving foe to tempt to forgetfulness of God. Every faculty will be developed, every capacity increased. The acquirement of knowledge will not weary the mind or exhaust the energies. There the grandest enterprises may be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations reached, the highest ambitions realized; and still there will arise new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects to call forth the powers of mind and soul and body,”-Great Controversy, 677:1-2.

THE REDEEMED WILL TRAVEL THROUGHOUT THE UNIVERSE

“All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God’s redeemed. Unfettered by mortality, they wing their tireless flight to worlds afar-worlds that thrilled with sorrow at the spectacle of human woe and rang with songs of gladness at the tidings of a ransomed soul. With unutterable delight the children of earth enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings. They share the treasures of knowledge and understanding gained through ages upon ages in contemplation of God’s handiwork.” Great Controversy, 677:3.

THE CHARACTER, LOVE, AND SACRIFICE OF GOD

“With undimmed vision they gaze upon the glory of creation -suns and stars and systems, all in their appointed order circling the throne of Deity. Upon all things, from the least to the greatest, the Creator’s name is written, and in all are the riches of His power displayed.” Great Controversy, 677:3-678:O.

THE MORE THEY WILL KNOW, LOVE, AND PRAISE HIM

“And the years of eternity, as they roll, will bring richer and still more glorious revelations of God and of Christ. As knowledge is progressive, so will love, reverence, and happiness increase. The more men learn of God, the greater will be their admiration of his character. As Jesus opens before them the riches of redemption and the amazing achievements in the great controversy with Satan, the hearts of the ransomed thrill with more fervent devotion, and with more rapturous joy they sweep the harps of gold; and ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of voices unite to swell the mighty chorus of praise.”-Great Controversy, 678:1.

THAT GOD IS LOVE

“ ‘And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.’ Revelation 5:13.

“The great controversy ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.”-Great Controversy, 678:2-3.

QUOTATIONS FROM THE OTHER PUBLISHED BOOKS

This is the second portion of “heaven quotes” from the Spirit of Prophecy. The first part, which you have Just read, consisted of statements about heaven from the books, Great Controversy and Early Writings. The second part, below, is filled with quotations on this same topic (heaven, the new earth, plus the Impor-tance of striving to be there) from the other published Spirit of Prophecy books.

Here are the sources and arrangement of this second part:

Omitting Early Writings and Great Controversy, the back pages of sixteen Spirit of Prophecy books contain originally-written or complied collections of statements on heaven. Those sixteen collections are here brought together for the first time. As you might expect, there were many duplicate statements. Most of them have been removed. The result is a treasure chest of nearly every Spirit of Prophecy statement about heaven and the new earth. Also included below is every Bible quotation in those sixteen book sections. Once again, duplicate Bible quotations were discarded.

After careful consideration, it was decided to leave the quoted sections from the sixteen books Intact. This makes for a more colorful and varied presentation of material. Some of the statements speak about preparing for heaven, and others describe what it will be like to be there. The paragraph headings and sub-heads, which were in the books the quotations were taken from, have also been included. However, in each of the sixteen collections of complied material, we have included the original source reference for each separate quotation. In this way, you can always know when a quotation begins and ends. (An example of this would be the quotations on heaven taken from 7 Bible Commentary. An introductory subhead explains that they were all taken from certain pages in that book. But original references are then given at the end of each quotation, so you can identify them as separate quotations.)

Throughout this final section of statements about your eternal home, none of the quoted material from the Spirit of Prophecy Is placed in italics. There was no need to do so, for the events of time will then have been swallowed up by the peace and bliss of eternity.

But some of the paragraphs, consisting totally of Bible quotations, are In Italics. This was done to highlight the fact that those are Bible quotations added by E.G. White Estate compliers at the top of Morning Watch book pages. (In some Instances, the only thing Included from a given Morning Watch page was the Bible quotation; everything else on that page had been omitted since it duplicated what had been quoted else-where In this section.) Divided Into two major headings (non-compiled books and compiled books), here are these sixteen sections:

Non-compiled books:

1 - Education. 303:1-309:3

2 - Acts of the Apostles, 601:1-602:3

3 - Steps to Christ, 125:1-126:2

4 - Christ’s Object Lessons, 421:1-2

Compiled books:

5 - Child Guidance, 560:1-569:2

6 - Adventist Home, 533:1-550:2

7 - Christian Service, 266:1-275:1

8 - Counsels on Stewardship, 348:1-350:2

9 - Publishing Ministry, 402:1-404:1

10 - Gospel Workers, 512:1-517:4; 519:2 11 - 7 Bible Commentary, 988:1-990:6

12 - My Life Today, 347:1-369:4

13 - Faith I Live By, 359:1-371:5

14 - Reflecting Christ, 378:1-8

15 - Amazing Grace, 360:1-367:4

16 - Maranatha, 316:1-334:4; 349:1-373:4

How important it is that each one of us remain close to our Father to the end! Because of the wonderful grace of Jesus Christ, as God’s faithful, obedient child, it is your privilege to read about your future. Here it is:

1-Education 303:1-309:3

“ ‘They shall see His face; and His name shall be in their foreheads.’ Revelation 22:4.

“There, when the veil that darkens our vision shall be removed, and our eyes shall behold that world of beauty of which we now catch glimpses through the microscope; when we look on the glories of the heavens, now scanned afar through the telescope; when, the blight of sin removed, the whole earth shall appear ‘in the beauty of the Lord our God,’ what a field will be open to our study! There the student of science may read the records of creation, and discern no reminders of the law of evil. He may listen to the music of nature’s voices, and detect no note of wailing or undertone of sorrow. In all created things he may trace one handwriting-in the vast universe behold ‘God’s name writ large,’ and not in earth or sea or sky one sign of ill remaining.” -Education, 303:4.

“ ‘They shall not hurt nor destroy in all My holy mountain, said the Lord.’ Isaiah 65:25.

“There man will be restored to his lost kingship, and the lower order of beings will again recognize his sway; the fierce will become gentle, and the timid trustful.

“There will be open to the student, history of infinite scope and of wealth inexpressible. Here, from the vantage ground of God’s word, the student is afforded a view of the vast field of history and may gain some knowledge of the principles that govern the course of human events. But his vision is still clouded, and his knowledge incomplete. Not until he stands in the light of eternity will he see all things clearly.

“The veil that interposes between the visible and the invisible world will be drawn aside, and wonderful things will be revealed.

“Though the rulers of this world know it not, yet often in their councils angels have been spokesmen. Human eyes have looked upon them. Human ears have listened to their appeals. In the council hall, the court of justice, heavenly messengers have pleaded the cause of the persecuted and oppressed. They have defeated purposes and arrested evils that would have brought wrong and suffering to God’s children. To the students in the heavenly school, all this will be unfolded.

“Every redeemed one will understand the ministry of angels in his own life. The angel who was his guardian from his earliest moment; the angel who watched his steps, and covered his head in the day of peril; the angel who was with him in the valley of the shadow of death, who marked his resting place, who was the first to greet him in the resurrection morning-what will it be to hold converse with him, and to learn the history of divine interposition in the individual life. of heavenly co-operation in every work for humanity!

“All the perplexities of life’s experience will then be made plain. Where to us have appeared only confusion and disappointment, broken purposes and thwarted plans, will be seen a grand, overruling, victorious purpose, a divine harmony.

“There all who have wrought with unselfish spirit will behold the fruit of their labors. The outworking of every right principle and noble deed will be seen. Something of this we see here. But how little of the result of the world’s noblest work is in this life manifest to the doer! How many toil unselfishly and unweariedly for those who pass beyond their reach and knowledge! Parents and teachers lie down in their last sleep, their lifework seeming to have been wrought in vain; they know not that their faithfulness has unsealed springs of blessing that can never cease to flow; only by faith they see the children they have trained become a benediction and an inspiration to their fellow men, and the influence repeat itself a thousand fold. Many a worker sends out into the world messages of strength and hope and courage, words that carry blessing to hearts in every land; but of the results he, toiling in loneliness and obscurity, knows little. So gifts are bestowed, burdens are borne, labor is done. Men sow the seed from which, above their graves, others reap blessed harvests. They plant trees, that others may eat the fruit. They are content here to know

that they have set in motion agencies for good. In the hereafter, the action and reaction of all these will be seen.

“Of every gift that God has bestowed, leading men to unselfish effort, a record is kept in heaven. To trace this in its wide-spreading lines, to look upon those who by our efforts have been uplifted and ennobled, to behold in their history the outworking of true principles-this will be one of the studies and rewards of the heavenly school.

“There will be music there, and song, such music and song as, save in the visions of God, no mortal ear has heard or mind conceived.

“ ‘As well the singers as the players on instruments shall be there.’ Psalm 87:7.

“ ‘They shall lift up their voice, they shall sing for the majesty of the Lord.’ Isaiah 24:14.

“ ‘For the Lord shall comfort Zion: He will comfort all her waste places; and He will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody.’ Isaiah 51:3 ..

“ ‘The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.’ Matthew 20:28. Christ’s work below is His work above, and our reward for working with Him in this world will be the greater power and wider privilege of working with Him in the world to come.

“ ‘Ye are My witnesses, said the Lord, that I am God.’ Isaiah 43:12. “This also we shall be in eternity.

“For what was the great controversy permitted to continue throughout the ages? Why was it that Satan’s existence was not cut short at the outset of his rebellion? It was that the universe might be convinced of God’s justice in His dealing with evil; that sin might receive eternal condemnation. In the plan of redemption there are heights and depths that eternity itself can never exhaust, marvels into which the angels desire to look. The redeemed only, of all created beings, have in their own experience known the actual conflict with sin; they have wrought with Christ, and, as even the angels could not do, have entered into the fellowship of His sufferings. Will they have no testimony as to the science of redemption -nothing that will be of worth to unfallen beings?

“ ‘In His temple doth everyone speak of His glory’ (Psalm 29:9), and the song which the ransomed ones will sing-the song of their experience-will declare the glory of God: ‘Great and marvelous are Thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy.’ Revelation 15:3, 4.

“Then, in the results of His work, Christ will behold its recompense. In that great multitude which no man could number, presented ‘faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy’ (Jude 24), He whose blood has redeemed and whose life has taught us, ‘shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.’ Isaiah 53: 11” (Education, 303:3-309:3).

2-Acts of the Apostles 601:1-602:3

“If the church will put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness, withdrawing from all allegiance with the world, there is before her the dawn of a bright and glorious day. God’s promise to her will stand fast forever. He will make her an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations. Truth, passing by those who despise and reject it, will triumph. Although at times apparently retarded, its progress has never been checked. When the message of God meets with opposition, He gives it additional force, that it may exert greater influence. Endowed with divine energy, it will cut its way through the strongest barriers and triumph over every obstacle.

“What sustained the Son of God during His life of toil and sacrifice? He saw the results of the travail of His soul and was satisfied. Looking into eternity, He beheld the happiness of those who through His humiliation had received pardon and everlasting life. His ear caught the shout of the redeemed. He heard the ransomed ones singing the song of Moses and the Lamb.

“We may have a vision of the future, the blessedness of heaven. In the Bible are revealed visions of the future glory, scenes pictured by the hand of God, and these are dear to His church. By faith we may stand on the threshold of the eternal city, and hear the gracious welcome given to those who in this life cooperate with Christ, regarding it as an honor to suffer for His sake. As the words are spoken, ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father,’ they cast their crowns at the feet of the Redeemer, exclaiming, ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing.. . Honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sits upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.’ Matthew 25:34; Revelation 5:12, 13.

“ ‘These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple: and He that sits on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.’ ‘And there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.’ Revelation 7:14-17; 21 :4.” (Acts of the Apostles, 601:1602:3).

3-Steps to Christ 125:1-126:2

“But even here Christians may have the joy of communion with Christ; they may have the light of His love, the perpetual comfort of His presence. Every step in life may bring us closer to Jesus, may give us a deeper experience of His love, and may bring us one step nearer to the blessed home of peace. Then let us not cast away our confidence, but have firm assurance, firmer than ever before. ‘Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,’ and He will help us to the end. 1 Samuel 7:12. Let us look to the monumental pillars, reminders of what the Lord has done to comfort us and to save us from the hand of the destroyer. Let us keep fresh in our memory all the tender mercies that God has shown us, -the tears He has wiped away, the pains He has soothed, the anxieties removed, the fears dispelled, the wants supplied, the blessings bestowed, -thus strengthening ourselves for all that Is before us through the remainder of our pilgrimage.

“We cannot but look forward to new perplexities in the coming conflict, but we may look on what is past as well as on what is to come, and say, ‘Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.’ ‘As thy days, so shall thy strength be.’ Deuteronomy 33:25. The trial will not exceed the strength that shall be given us to bear it. Then let us take up our work just where we find it, believing that whatever may come, strength proportionate to the trial will be given.

“In view of the glorious inheritance that may be his, ‘what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?’ Matthew 16:26. He may be poor, yet he possesses in himself a wealth and dignity that the world could never bestow. The soul redeemed and cleansed from sin, with all its noble powers dedicated to the service of God, is of surpassing worth; and there is joy in heaven in the presence of God and the holy angels over one soul redeemed, a joy that is expressed in songs of holy triumph” (Steps to Christ, 125: 1-126:2).

4-Christ’s Object Lessons 421:1-2

“With uplifted heads, with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shining upon them, with rejoicing that their redemption draweth nigh, they go forth to meet the Bridegroom, saying, ‘Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.’ Isaiah 25:9.

“ ‘And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thundering, saying, Alleluia; for the Lord God omnipotent reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him; for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready.’ Revelation 19:6-7” -(Christ’s Object Lessons, 421:1-2).

5 - Child Guidance 560:1-569:2

A Graphic Scene of the Judgment Day.- “I had a dream once in which I saw a large company gathered tog-ether; and suddenly the heavens gathered blackness, the thunder rolled, the lightning flashed, and a voice louder than the heaviest peals of thunder sounded through the heavens and the earth, saying, ‘It is done.’ Part of the company, with pallid faces, sprang forward with a wail of agony, crying out, ‘Oh, I am not ready.’ The question was asked, ‘Why are you not ready? Why have you not improved the opportunities I graciously gave you?’ I awoke with the crying ringing in my ears. ‘I am not ready; I am unsaved -Lost! Lost! Eternally lost!’

“In view of the solemn responsibilities that rest upon us, let us contemplate the future, that we may understand what we must do in order to meet it. In that day shall we be confronted with neglect and contempt of God and His mercy, with rejection of His truth and love? In the solemn assembly of the last day, in the hearing of the universe, will be read the reason of the condemnation of the sinner. For the first time parents will learn what has been the secret life of their children. Children will see how many wrongs they have committed against their parents. There will be a general revealing of the secrets and motives of the heart, for that which is hid will be made manifest. Those who have made sport of solemn things connected with the judgment will be sobered as they face its terrible reality.

“Those who have despised the Word of God will then face the Author of the inspired oracles. We cannot afford to live with no reference to the day of judgment; for though long delayed, it is now near, even at the door, and hasteth greatly. The trumpet of the Archangel will soon startle the living and wake the dead. At that day the wicked will be separated from the just, as the shepherd divides the goats from the sheep.” - Youth’s Instructor, July 21, 1892 (Child Guidance, 560, 1-8).

When God Asks, “Where Are the Children?” -”Parents who have neglected their God-given responsibilities must meet that neglect in the judgment. The Lord will then inquire, ‘Where are the children that I gave you to train for Me? Why are they not at My right hand?’ Many parents will then see that unwise love blinded their eyes to their children’s faults and left those children to develop deformed characters unfit for heaven. Others will see that they did not give their children time and attention, love and tenderness; their own neglect of duty made the children what they are.”- 4 Testimonies, 424:1 (Child Guidance, 561:1).

“Parents, if you lose your opportunity, God pity you; for in the day of judgment God will say, ‘What have you done with My flock, My beautiful flock?’..

“Suppose you should get to heaven and none of your children be there. How could you say to God, ‘Here am I, Lord, and the children which Thou hast given me’? Heaven marks the neglect of parents. It is recorded in the books of heaven.” -Manuscript 62, 1901 (Child Guidance, 561:2-8).

Families Will Pass in Review Before God.-”When parents and children meet at the final reckoning, what a scene will be presented! Thousands of children who have been slaves to appetite and debasing vice, whose lives are moral wrecks, will stand face to face with the parents who made them what they are. Who but the parents must bear this fearful responsibility? Did the Lord make these youth corrupt? Oh, no! He made them in His image, a little lower than the angels. Who, then, has done the fearful work of forming the life character? Who changed their characters so that they do not bear the impress of God and must be forever separated from His presence as too impure to have any place with the pure angels in a holy heaven? Were the sins of the parents transmitted to the children in perverted appetites and passions? And was the work completed by the pleasure-loving mother in neglecting to properly train them according to the pattern given her? All these mothers will pass in review before God just as surely as they exist.” - 8 Testimonies, 568:2-569:O (Child Guidance, 561:4-562:O).

In Heaven Is a Pictorial Record.-”Let parents and children remember that day by day they are each form-ing a character, and that the features of this character are imprinted upon the books of heaven. God is taking pictures of His people, just as surely as an artist takes pictures of men and women, transferring the features of the face to the polished plate. What kind of picture do you wish to produce? Parents, answer the question! What kind of picture will the great Master Artist make of you in the records of heaven? . . We must decide this now.

Hereafter, when death shall come, there will be no time to straighten the crooked places in the character.

“To us individually this should be a most important matter. Every day our likeness is being taken for time and for eternity. Let each one say, ‘I am having my likeness taken today.’ Ask yourself daily, hourly, ‘How will my words sound to the heavenly angels? Are they as apples of gold in pictures of silver, or are they like a blasting hail, wounding and bruising?’..

“Not only our words and actions, but our thoughts, make up the picture of what we are. Then let every soul be good and do good. Let the picture made of you be one of which you will not be ashamed. Every feeling we cherish makes its impress upon the countenance. God help us to make our record in our families what we would wish it to be in the heavenly record.”-Letter 78, 1901 (Child Guidance, 562:1-569:1).

“If mothers neglect to properly educate their children, their neglect is reflected back upon them again, making their burdens and perplexities harder than they would have been if they had devoted time and patient care in training their children to obedience and submission. It will pay in the end for mothers to make the formation of the characters of their children their first and highest consideration, that the thorns may not take root and yield an abundant harvest.” -Signs, August 5, 1875 (Child Guidance, 563:3).

Children Will Condemn Unfaithful Parents.- “The curse of God will surely rest upon unfaithful parents. Not only are they planting thorns which will wound them here, but they must meet their own unfaithfulness when the judgment shall sit. Many children will rise up in judgment and condemn their parents for not restraining them and charge upon them their destruction. The false sympathy and blind love of parents cause them to excuse the faults of their children and pass them by without correction, and their children are lost in consequence, and the blood of their souls will rest upon the unfaithful parents.” -1 Testimonies, 219:1 (Child Guidance, 563:4-564:O).

Children Will Pay Tribute to Faithful Parents. “When the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened; when the ‘well done’ of the great Judge is pronounced, and the crown of immortal glory is placed upon the brow of the victor, many will raise their crowns in sight of the assembled universe and, pointing to their mother, say, ‘She made me all am through the grace of God. Her instruction, her prayers, have been blessed to my eternal salvation.’ “-Messages to Young People, 330:1 (Child Guidance, 564:1).

Parents May Bring Children With Them to Promised Land.- “God has permitted light from His throne to shine all along the path of life. A pillar of cloud by day, a pillar of fire by night, is moving before us as before ancient Israel. It is the privilege of Christian parents today, as it was the privilege of God’s people of old, to bring their children with them to the Promised Land.” -Signs, November 24, 1881 (Child Guidance, 565:1).

“You want a household for God; you want your family for God. You want to take them up to the gates of the city and say, ‘Here am I, Lord, and the children that Thou hast given me.’ They may be men and women that have grown to manhood and womanhood, but they are your children all the same; and your educating, and your watchfulness over them have been blessed of God, till they stand as overcomers. Now you can say, ‘Here am I, Lord, and the children.’“ -Manuscript 49, 1894, (Child Guidance, 565:2).

Broken Family Chains Will Be Relinked.-”Jesus is coming, coming with clouds and great glory. A multitude of shining angels will attend Him. He will come to honor those who have loved Him and kept His commandments, and to take them to Himself. He has not forgotten them or His promise. There will be a relinking of the family chain.” -Review, November 22, 1906 (Child Guidance, 565:3).

Comfort for a Bereaved Mother.- “You inquire in regard to your little one being saved. Christ’s words are your answer: ‘Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.’ Remember the prophecy, ‘Thus said the Lord: A voice was heard In Raman, lamentation, and bitter weeping; Rachel weeping for her children refused to be comforted. . Thus said the Lord: Refrain thy voice from weeping and your eyes from tears; for thy work shall be rewarded, said the Lord; and they shall come again from the land of the enemy. And there is hope in your end, said the Lord, that thy children shall come again to your own border.’

“This promise is yours. You may be comforted and trust in the Lord. The Lord has often instructed me that many little ones are to be laid away before the time of trouble. We shall see our children again. We shall meet them and know them in the heavenly courts. Put your trust in the Lord, and be not afraid.” -Letter 196, 1899 (Child Guidance, 564:3-565:1).

The Day Long Hoped For. -”From the day when the first pair turned their sorrowing steps from Eden, the children of faith have waited the coming of the Promised One to break the destroyer’s power and bring them again to the lost Paradise.” -Great Controversy, 299:1 (Child Guidance, 566:4-567:O).

“Heaven will be cheap enough if we obtain it through suffering. . As I saw what we must be in order to inherit glory, and then saw how much Jesus had suffered to obtain for us so rich an inheritance, I prayed that we might be baptized into Christ’s sufferings, that we might not shrink at trials, but bear them with patience and joy, knowing what Jesus had suffered that we through His poverty and sufferings might be made rich,”- Early Writings, 67:1-2 (Child Guidance, 567:1).

“Heaven is Worth Everything! -”Heaven is worth everything to us. We must not run any risk in this matter. We must take no venture here. We must know that our steps are ordered by the Lord. May God help us in the great work of overcoming. He has crowns for those that overcome. He has white robes for the righteous. He has an eternal world of glory for those who seek for glory, honor, and Immortality. Everyone who enters the City of God will enter it as a conqueror. He will not enter it as a condemned criminal, but as a son of God. And the welcome given to everyone who enters there will be, ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’ Matthew 25:34.” Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 149 (Child Guidance, 567:2).

Partakers of Christ’s Joy.- “We see a retinue of angels on either side of the gate; and as we pass in, Jesus speaks, ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom that is prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’ Here He tells you to be a partaker of His joy, and what is that? It is the joy of seeing of the travail of your soul, fathers. It is the joy of seeing that your efforts, mothers, are rewarded. Here are your children; the crown of life is upon their heads, and the angels of God immortalize the names of the mothers whose efforts have won their children to Jesus Christ.” -Manuscript 12, 1895 (Child Guidance, 567:3-568:O).

“These visions of future glory, scenes pictured by the hand of God, should be dear to His children..

“We need to keep ever before us this vision of things unseen. It is thus that we shall be able to set a right value on the things of eternity and the things of time. It is this that will give us power to influence others for the higher life.” -Ministry of Healing, 506:1; 508:2 (Child Guidance, 568:3-4).

Will God Say, “Well Done”? -”When you stand -before the great white throne, then your work will appear as it is. The books are opened, the record of every life made known. Many in that vast company are unprepared for the revelations made. Upon the ears of some the words will fall with startling distinctness, ‘Weighed in the balance, and found wanting.’ To many parents the Judge will say in that day, ‘You had My Word, plainly setting forth your duty. Why have you not obeyed its teachings? Knew ye not that it was the voice of God? Did I not bid you search the Scriptures, that you might not go astray? You have not only ruined your own souls, but by your pretensions to godliness you have misled many others. You have no part with Me. Depart; depart.’

“Another class stand pale and trembling, trusting in Christ, and yet oppressed with a sense of their own un-worthiness. They hear with tears ofjoy and gratitude the Master’s commendation. The days of incessant toil, of burden bearing, and of fear and anguish are forgotten as that voice, sweeter than the music of angel harps, pronounces the words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant, enter ye into the joy of your Lord.’ There stand the host of the redeemed, the palm branch of victory in their hand, the crown upon their head. These are the ones who by faithful, earnest labor have obtained a fitness for heaven. The lifework performed on earth is acknowledged in the heavenly courts as a work well done.

6-Adventist Home 533:1-550:2

A Rich Reward Awaits Faithful Parents.-”If parents give their children the proper education, they themselves will be made happy by seeing the fruit of their careful training in the Christ like character of their children. They are doing God the highest service by presenting to the world well ordered, well-disciplined, families, who not only fear the Lord, but honor and glorify Him by their influence upon other families; and they will receive their reward.” Review, November 17, 1896 (Adventist Home, 533:1).

“Believing parents, you have a responsible work before you to guide the footsteps of your children, even in their religious experience. When they truly love God, they will bless and reverence you for the care which you have manifested for them, and for your faithfulness in restraining their desires and subduing their wills.”- 1 Testimonies, 403:O (Adventist Home, 533:2).

“There is a reward when the seed of truth is early sown in the heart and carefully tended.”- Counsels to Teachers, 144:O (Adventist Home, 533:3).

“Parents should labor with reference to the future harvest. While they sow in tears, amid many discouragements, it should be with earnest prayer. They may see the promise of but a late and scanty harvest, yet that should not prevent the sowing. They should sow beside all waters, embracing every opportunity both to improve themselves and to benefit their children. Such seed sowing will not be in vain. At the harvest time many faithful parents will return with joy, bringing their sheaves with them.” Review, October 30, 1908 (Adventist Home, 533:4).

“Give your children intellectual culture and moral training. Fortify their young minds with firm, pure principles. While you have opportunity, lay the foundation for a noble manhood and womanhood. Your labor will be rewarded a thousand fold.”-Counsels to Teachers, 131:1 (Adventist Home, 534:1).

Parents Will Be Revered by Children Fitted for Heaven.- “In the word of God we find a beautiful descrip-tion of a happy home and the woman who presides over it: ‘Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her,’ What greater commendation can be desired by the mistress of a home than that which is here expressed?” -Health Reformer, December 1877 (Adventist Home, 534:2).

“If she [the true wife and mother] looks to God for her strength and comfort, and in His wisdom and fear seeks to do her daily duty, she will bind her husband to her heart and see her children coming to maturity honorable men and women, having moral stamina to follow the example of their mother,” -Signs, November 29, 1877 (Adventist Home, 534:3).

“The great stimulus to the toiling, burdened mother should be that every child who is trained aright, and who has the inward adorning, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, will have a fitness for heaven and will shine in the courts of the Lord.” -3 Testimonies, 566:2 (Adventist Home, 534:4).

The Joys of Heaven to Begin In the Home.- “Heaven and earth are no wider apart today than when shepherds listened to the angels’ song. Humanity is still as much the object of heaven’s solicitude as when common men of common occupations met angels at noonday and talked with the heavenly messengers in the vineyards and the fields. To us in the common walks of life heaven may be very near. Angels from the courts above will attend the steps of those who come and go at God’s command,” Desire of Ages, 48:4.

“The service rendered in sincerity of heart has great recompense. ‘Thy Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly.’ By the life we live through the grace of Christ, the character is formed. The original loveliness begins to be restored to the soul. The attributes of the character of Christ are imparted, and the image of the Divine begins to shine forth. The faces of men and women who walk and work with God express the peace of heaven. They are surrounded with the atmosphere of heaven. For these souls the kingdom of God has begun. They have Christ’s joy, the joy of being a blessing to humanity. They have the honor of being accepted for the Master’s use; they are trusted to do His work in His name.” -Desire of Ages, 312:2 (Adventist Home, 535:2).

All to Be Fitted for the Society of Heaven.- “God desires that heaven’s plan shall be carried out, and heaven’s divine order and harmony prevail, in every family, in every church, in every institution. Did this love leaven society; we should see the outworking of noble principles in Christian refinement and courtesy and in Christian charity toward the purchase of the blood of Christ. Spiritual transformation would be seen in all our families, in our institutions, in our churches. When this transformation takes place, these agencies will become instrumentalities by which God will impart heaven’s light to the world and thus, through divine discipline and training, fit men and women for the society of heaven.” -8 Testimonies, 140:O (Adventist Home, 535:3).

Reward at the last Great Day. - “In your work for your children take hold of the mighty power of God. Commit your children to the Lord in prayer. Work earnestly and untiringly for them. God will hear your prayers and will draw them to Himself. Then. at the last great day, you can bring them to God, saying, ‘Here am I, and the children whom Thou hast given me.’ “-Manuscript 14, 1903 (Adventist Home, 536:1).

“When Samuel shall receive the crown of glory, he will wave it in honor before the throne and gladly acknowledge that the faithful lessons of his mother, through the merits of Christ, have crowned him with immortal glory.” Good Health, March, 1880 (Adventist Home, 536:2).

“The work of wise parents will never be appreciated by the world, but when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, their work will appear as God views it and will be rewarded before men and angels. It will be seen that one child who has been brought up in a faithful way has been a light in the world, It cost tears and anxiety and sleepless nights to oversee the character building of this child, but the work was done wisely, and the parents hear the ‘Well done’ of the Master.” -Signs, July 13, 1888 (Adventist Home, 536:3).

Title to Admission to the King’s Palace.- “Let the youth and the little children be taught to choose for them-selves that royal robe woven in heaven’s loom, the ‘fine linen, clean and white’ which all the holy ones of earth will wear. This robe, Christ’s own spotless character, is freely offered to every human being. But all who receive it will receive and wear it here.” -Education, 249.

“Let the children be taught that as they open their minds to pure, loving thoughts and do loving and helpful deeds, they are clothing themselves with His beautiful garment of character. This apparel will make them beautiful and beloved here and will hereafter be their title of admission to the palace of the King. His promise is: ‘They shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy.’ “-Education, 249:2-4 (Adventist Home, 536:4-537:1).

Eden to Be Restored. -”The Garden of Eden remained upon the earth long after man had become an outcast from its pleasant paths. The fallen race were long permitted to gaze upon the home of innocence, their entrance barred only by the watching angels. At the cherubim guarded gate of Paradise the divine glory was revealed. Hither came Adam and his sons to worship God. Here they renewed their vows of obedience to that law the transgression of which had banished them from Eden. When the tide of iniquity overspread the world, and the wickedness of men determined their destruction by a flood of waters, the hand that had planted Eden withdrew it from the earth. But in the final restitution, when there shall be ‘a new heaven and a new earth,’ it is to be restored more gloriously adorned than at the beginning.

“Then they that have kept God’s commandments shall breathe in immortal vigor beneath the tree of life; and through unending ages the inhabitants of sinless worlds shall behold, in that garden of delight, a sample of the perfect work of God’s creation, untouched by the curse of sin -a sample of what the whole earth would have become had man but fulfilled the Creator’s glorious plan.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 62, 2-3.

“The great plan of redemption results in fully bringing back the world into God’s favor. All that was lost by sin is restored. Not only man but the earth is redeemed, to be the eternal abode of the obedient. For six thousand years Satan has struggled to maintain possession of the earth. Now God’s original purpose in its creation is accomplished. ‘The saints of the Most High shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever, even for ever and ever.’ “-Patriarchs and Prophets, 342 (Adventist Home, 539:1-540:O).

The Redemption of the Purchased possession. “God’s original purpose in the creation of the earth is fulfilled as it is made the eternal abode of the redeemed. ‘The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever.’ The time has come to which holy men have looked with longing since the flaming sword barred the first pair from Eden-the time for ‘the redemption of the purchased possession.’ The earth originally given to man as his kingdom, betrayed by him into the hands of Satan, and so long held by the mighty foe, has been brought back by the great plan of redemption,” -Signs, December 29, 1909 (Adventist Home, 540:1).

“All that was lost by the first Adam will be restored by the second. The prophet says, ‘O Tower of the flock, the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto Thee shall it come, even the first dominion.’ And Paul points forward to the ‘redemption of the purchased possession.’

“God created the earth to be the abode of holy, happy beings. That purpose will be fulfilled when, renewed by the power of God and freed from sin and sorrow, it shall become the eternal home of the redeemed.” - Review, October 22, 1908 (Adventist Home, 540, 2-3).

Privileges of the Redeemed. -”Heaven is a good place. I long to be there and behold my lovely Jesus, who gave His life for me, and be changed into His glorious image. Oh, for language to express the glory of the bright world to come! I thirst for the living streams that make glad the city of our God.”-Early Writings, 39:2.

Adam Restored to His Eden Home.- “There are homes for the pilgrims of earth. There are robes for the righteous, with crowns of glory and palms of victory. All that has perplexed us in the providences of God will in the world to come be made plain. The things hard to be understood will then find explanation. The mysteries of grace will unfold before us. Where our finite minds discovered only confusion and broken promises, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony. We shall know that infinite love ordered the experiences that seemed most trying. As we realize the tender care of Him who makes all things work together for our good, we shall rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.

“We are homeward bound. He who loved us so much as to die for us hath built for us a city. The New Je-rusalem is our place of rest. There will be no sadness in the City of God. No wail of sorrow, no dirge of crushed hopes and buried affections, will evermore be heard. Soon the garments of heaviness will be changed for the wedding garment. Soon we shall witness the coronation of our King. Those whose lives have been hidden with Christ, those who on this earth have fought the good fight of faith, will shine forth with the Redeemer’s glory in the kingdom of God.” -9 Testimonies, 286:2; 287:1 (Adventist Home, 542:2-543:O).

“From that scene of heavenly joy [the ascension of Christ] there comes back to us on earth the echo of Christ’s own wonderful words, ‘I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.’ The family of heaven and the family of earth are one. For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives.

‘Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.’ “-Desire of Ages, 835:2 (Adventist Home, 543:1; 544:3).

Though Delayed, the Promise Is Sure.-”Long have we waited for our Savior’s return. But none the less sure is the promise. Soon we shall be in our promised home. There Jesus will lead us beside the living stream flowing from the throne of God and will explain to us the dark providences through which on this earth He brought us in order to perfect our characters. There we shall behold with undimmed vision the beauties of Eden restored. Casting at the feet of the Redeemer the crowns that He has placed on our heads and touching our golden harps, we shall fill all heaven with praise to Him that sits on the throne.” 8 Testimonies, 254:3 (Adventist Home, 544:4-545:O).

“Let all that is beautiful in our earthly home remind us of the crystal river and green fields, the waving trees and the living fountains, the shining city and the white-robed singers, of our heavenly home -that world of beauty which no artist can picture, no mortal tongue describe. ‘Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.”-Review, July 11, 1882 (Adventist Home, 545:1).

Graduate Work in the Hereafter. - “Do you think we shall not learn anything there? We have not the slightest idea of what will then be opened before us. With Christ we shall walk beside the living waters. He will unfold to us the beauty and glory of nature. He will reveal what He is to us and what we are to Him. Truth we cannot know now because of finite limitations, we shall know hereafter.” -Counsels to Teachers, 162:2 (Adventist Home, 547:2).

“The Christian family is to be a training school from which children are to graduate to a higher school in the mansions of God.”-Review, March 30, 1897 (Adventist Home, 547:3).

“Heaven is a school; its field of study, the universe; its teacher, the Infinite One. A branch of this school was established in Eden; and, the plan of redemption accomplished, education will again be taken up in the Eden school..

“Between the school established in Eden at the beginning and the school of the hereafter there lies the whole compass of this world’s history -the history of human transgression and suffering, of divine sacrifice, and of victory over death and sin. . Restored to His presence, man will again, as at the beginning, be taught of God: ‘My people shall know My name: . . they shall know in that day that I am He that doth speak: behold, it is I.’

“There, when the veil that darkens our vision shall be removed and our eyes shall behold that world of beauty of which we now catch glimpses through the microscope; when we look on the glories of the heavens, now scanned afar through the telescope; when, the blight of sin removed, the whole earth shall appear ‘in the beauty of the Lord our God,’ what a field will be open to our study!” Education, 301:1, 6; 302:O,3; 303:4. (Adventist Home, 547:4- 548:O).

On the Verge of Fulfillment. - “We are living in a most solemn period of this earth’s history, there is never time to sin; it is always perilous to continue in transgression, but in a special sense is this true at the present time. We are now upon the very borders of the eternal world and stand in a more solemn relation to time and to eternity than ever before. Now let every person search his own heart and plead for the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness to expel all spiritual darkness and cleanse from defilement” -Testimonies to Ministers, 147:1-2.

“To us who are standing on the very verge of their fulfillment, of what deep moment, what living interest, are these delineations of the things to come -events for which, since our first parents turned their steps from Eden, God’s children have watched and waited, longed and prayed!

“Fellow pilgrim, we are still amid the shadows and turmoil of earthly activities, but soon our Savior is to ap-pear to bring deliverance and rest. Let us by faith behold the blessed hereafter, as pictured by the hand of God,” Prophets and Kings, 731:3-732:O (Adventist Home, 549:3-550:1).

7 -Christian Service 266:1-275:1 Priceless

“It is not a vain thing to serve God. There is a priceless reward for those who devote their life to His service, “-4 Testimonies, 107:9 (Christian Service, 266:1).

“Every sacrifice that is made in His ministry will be recompensed according to ‘the exceeding riches of His grace.’ “-The Desire of Ages, 249:1 (Christian Service, 266:2).

“Our reward for working with Christ in this world is the greater power and wider privilege of working with Him in the world to come.” -Christ’s Object Lessons, 361:4 (Christian Service, 266:3).

Basis of Valuation

“The value of service to God is measured by the spirit in which it is rendered, rather than by the length of time spent in labor.”-9 Testimonies, 74:2 (Christian Service, 266:4).

“Their success in advancement in the divine life depends upon the improvement of the talents lent them. Their future reward will be proportioned to the integrity and earnestness with which they serve the Master.” Review, March 1, 1887 (Christian Service, 266:5).

“The Lord has a great work to be done, and He will bequeath the most in the future life to those who do the most faithful, willing service in the present life.” -Christ’s Object Lessons, 330:1 (Christian Service, 266:6).

“Those who came into the vineyard at the eleventh hour were thankful for an opportunity to work. Their hearts were full of gratitude to the one who had accepted them; and when at the close of the day the householder paid them for a full day’s work, they were greatly surprised. They knew they had not earned such wages. And the kindness expressed in the countenance of their employer filled them with joy. They never forgot the goodness of the householder, or the generous compensation they had received.

“Thus it is with the sinner, who, knowing his unworthiness, has entered the Master’s vineyard at the eleventh hour. His time of service seems so short, he feels that he is undeserving of reward; but he is filled with joy that God has accepted him at all. He works with a humble, trusting spirit, thankful for the privilege of being a coworker with Christ. This spirit God delights to honor.”-Christ’s Object Lessons, 397:3-398:O (Christian Service, 266:7-267:1).

Sure Reward

“He who has appointed ‘to every man his work,’ according to his ability, will never let the faithful perform-ance of duty go unrewarded. Every act of loyalty and faith will be crowned with special tokens of God’s favor and approbation. To every worker is given the promise, ‘He that goes forth and weeps, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.’ “-5 Testimonies, 395:4 (Christian Service, 267:2).

“However short our service or humble our work, if in simple faith we follow Christ, we shall not be disappointed of the reward. That which even the greatest and wisest cannot earn, the weakest and most humble may receive. Heaven’s golden gate opens not to the self-exalted. It is not lifted up to the proud in spirit. But the everlasting portals will open wide to the trembling touch of a little child. Blessed will be the recompense of grace to those who have wrought for God in the simplicity of faith and love.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 404:2 (Christian Service, 267:3).

“The brows of those who do this work will wear the crown of sacrifice. But they will receive their reward.”-6 Testimonies, 348:3 (Christian Service, 267:4).

“Every act, every deed of justice and mercy and benevolence, makes music in heaven, The Father from His throne beholds and numbers the performer of them with His most precious treasures. ‘And they shall be Mine, said the Lord of hosts, when I make up My jewels.’ Every merciful act to the needy or the suffering is as though done to Jesus. Whoever succors the poor, or sympathizes with the afflicted and oppressed, and befriends the orphan, brings himself into a more close relationship to Jesus,” Review, August 16, 1881 (Christian Service, 268:1).

“Christ regards all acts of mercy, benevolence, and thoughtful consideration for the unfortunate, the blind, the lame, the sick, the widow, and the orphan, as done to Himself; and these works are preserved in the heavenly records, and will be rewarded.” -3 Testimonies, 512:1-513:O (Christian Service, 268:2).

A Just Reward

“The Lord is good. He is merciful and tender-hearted. He is acquainted with every one of His children. He knows just what each one of us is doing. He knows just how much credit to give to each one. Will you not lay down your credit list and your condemnation list, and leave God to do His own work? You will be given the crown of glory if you will attend to the work that God has given you.” -Southern Watchman, May 14, 1903 (Christian Service, 268:3),

“The Lord desires us to rest in Him without a question as to our measure of reward. When Christ abides in the soul, the thought of reward is not uppermost. This is not the motive that actuates our service.” -Christ ‘s Object Lessons, 398:1 (Christian Service, 268:4).

“From garrets, from hovels, from dungeons, from scaffolds, from mountains and deserts, from the caves of the earth and the caverns of the sea, Christ will gather His children to Himself. On earth they have been destitute, afflicted, and tormented. Millions have gone down to the grave loaded with infamy because they refused to yield to the deceptive claims of Satan. By human tribunals the children of God have been adjudged the vilest criminals. But the day is near when ‘God is judge Himself.’ Then the decisions of earth shall be reversed. ‘The rebuke of His people shall He take away.’ White robes will be given to everyone of them. And ‘they shall call them the holy people, the redeemed of the Lord.’ “ -Christ’s Object Lessons, 179:3-180:O (Christian Service, 268:5-269:O).

Future Reward

Eternal Life.-”By earnest, thoughtful efforts to help where help is needed, the true Christian shows his love for God and for his fellow beings. He may lose his life in service; but when Christ comes to gather His jewels to Himself, he will find it again.” -9 Testimonies, 56:3 (Christian Service, 271:5).

A Gracious Welcome Home.- “If the record shows that this has been their life, that their characters have been marked with tenderness, self-denial, and benevolence, they will receive the blessed assurance and benediction from Christ, ‘Well done.’ ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’ “-3 Testimonies, 525:1 (Christian Service, 272:1).

Joy. -”It is the reward of Christ’s workers to enter into His joy. That joy, to which Christ Himself looks forward with eager desire, is presented in His request to His Father, ‘I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.’ “-6 Testimonies, 309:2 (Christian Service, 272:3).

“In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted, though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untrammeled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found, -witnessing, and ever as we witness learning anew ‘the riches of the glory of this mystery,’ ‘which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.’ “Education, 309:1 (Christian Service, 272:4-273:O).

“They share in the sufferings of Christ, and they will share also in the glory that shall be revealed. One with Him in His work, drinking with Him the cup of sorrow, they are partakers also of His joy.” -Mount of Blessing, 13:O (Christian Service, 273:1).

Fruitage of Seed-Sowing.- “Every impulse of the Holy Spirit leading men to goodness and to God, is noted in the books of heaven, and in the day of God every one who has given himself as an instrument for the Holy Spirit’s working will be permitted to behold what his life has wrought.” -6 Testimonies, 310:1 (Christian Service, 273:2).

“When the redeemed stand before God, precious souls will respond to their names who are there because of the faithful, patient efforts put forth in their behalf, the entreaties and earnest persuasions to flee to the Stronghold. Thus those who in this world have been laborers together with God will receive their reward.” -8 Testimonies, 98:3 (Christian Service, 273:3).

“What rejoicing there will be as these redeemed ones meet and greet those who have had a burden in their behalf! And those who have lived, not to please themselves, but to be a blessing to the unfortunate who have so few blessings, -how their hearts will thrill with satisfaction! They will realize the promise, ‘Thou shall be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shall be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.’ “-Gospel Workers, 519:1 (Christian Service, 273:4).

“In heaven we shall see the youth whom we helped, those whom we invited to our homes, whom we led from temptation. We shall see their faces reflecting the radiance of the glory of God.” -6 Testimonies, 348:3 (Christian Service, 273:5).

“To be a coworker with Christ and the heavenly angels in the great plan of salvation! What work can bear any comparison with this! From every soul saved, there comes to God a revenue of glory, to be reflected upon the one saved, and also upon the one instrumental in his salvation.” -2 Testimonies, 232:1 (Christian Service, 273:6).

“The redeemed will meet and recognize those whose attention they have directed to the uplifted Savior. What blessed converse they will have with these souls! ‘I was a sinner,’ it will be said, ‘without God and without hope in the world; and you came to me, and drew my attention to the precious Savior as my only hope. And I believed in Him. I repented of my sins, and was made to sit together with His saints in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.’ Others will say: ‘I was a heathen in heathen lands. You left your friends and comfortable home, and came to teach me how to find Jesus, and believe in Him as the only true God. I demolished my idols, and worshiped God, and now I see Him face to face. I am saved, eternally saved, ever to behold Him whom I love. I then saw Him only with the eye of faith, but now I see Him as He is. I can now express my gratitude for His redeeming mercy to Him who loved me, and washed me from my sins in His own blood.” -Gospel Workers, 518:2 (Christian Service, 274:1).

“Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry and clothed the naked. ‘When despair bound my soul in unbelief, the Lord sent you to me,’ they say, ‘to speak words of hope and comfort. You brought me food for my physical necessities, and you opened to me the Word of God, awakening me to my spiritual needs. You treated me as a brother. You sympathized with me in my sorrows, and restored my bruised and wounded soul, so that I could grasp the hand of Christ that was reached out to save me. In my ignorance you taught me patiently that I had a Father in heaven who cared for me. You read to me the precious promises of God’s Word. You inspired in me faith that He would save me. My heart was softened, subdued, broken, as I contemplated the sacrifice which Christ had made for me. I became hungry for the bread of life, and the truth was precious to my soul. I am here, saved, eternally saved, ever to live in His presence, and to praise Him who gave His life for me.’ “ -Gospel Workers, 518:3-519:O (Christian Service, 274:02).

Patiently Walt for the Reward

“If the time seems long to wait for our Deliverer to come; if, bowed by affliction and worn with toil, we feel impatient for our commission to close, and to receive an honorable release from the warfare, let us remember-and let the remembrance check every murmur-that God leaves us on earth to encounter storms and conflicts, to perfect Christian character, to become better acquainted with God our Father and Christ our Elder Brother, and to do work for the Master in winning many souls to Christ, that with glad heart we may hear the words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’ “Review, October 25,1881 (Christian Service, 274:3-275:O).

“Be patient, Christian soldier. Yet a little while, and He that shall come, will come. The night of weary waiting, and watching, and mourning is nearly over. The reward will soon be given; the eternal day will dawn. There is no time to sleep now, -no time to indulge in useless regrets. He who ventures to slumber now will miss precious opportunities of doing good. We are granted the blessed privilege of gathering sheaves in the great harvest; and every soul saved will be an additional star in the crown of Jesus, our adorable Redeemer. Who is eager to layoff the armor, when by pushing the battle a little longer, he will achieve new victories and gather new trophies for eternity?” -Review, October 25, 1881 (Christian Service, 275:1).

8-Counsels on Stewardship 348:1-350:2

“There is reward for the wholehearted, unselfish workers who enter this field, and also for those who contribute willingly for their support. Those engaged in active service in the field, and those who give of their means to sustain these workers, will share the reward of the faithful.

“Every wise steward of the means entrusted to him, will enter into the joy of his Lord. What is this joy? -’ Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.’ There will be a blessed commendation, a holy benediction, on the faithful winners of souls. They will join the rejoicing ones in heaven, who shout the harvest home.

“How great will be the joy when the redeemed of the Lord shall all meet, gathered into the mansions prepared for them! O, what rejoicing for all who have been impartial, unselfish laborers together with God in carrying forward His work in the earth! What satisfaction will every reaper have, when the clear, musical voice of Jesus shall be heard, saying, ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’ ‘Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’

“The Redeemer is glorified because He has not died in vain. With glad, rejoicing hearts, those who have been colaborers with God see of the travail of their soul for perishing, dying sinners, and are satisfied. The anxious hours they have spent, the perplexing circumstances they have had to meet, the sorrow of heart because some refused to see and receive the things which make for their peace, are forgotten. The self-denial they have practiced in order to support the work, is remembered no more. As they look upon the souls they sought to win to Jesus, and see them saved, eternally saved-monuments of God’s mercy and of a Redeemer’s love-there ring through the arches of heaven shouts of praise and thanksgiving.” - Review, October 10, 1907 (Christian Service, 348:1-349:O).

Realization Greater Than Expectation.- “Christ accepted humanity, and lived on this earth a pure, sancti-fied life. For this reason He has received the appointment of judge. He who occupies the position of judge is God manifest in the flesh. What a joy it will be to recognize in Him our Teacher and Redeemer, bearing still the marks of the crucifixion, from which shine beams of glory, giving additional value to the crowns which the redeemed receive from His hands, the very hands outstretched in blessing over His disciples as He ascended. The very voice which said. ‘Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world,’ bids His ransomed ones welcome to His presence.

“The very One who gave H is precious life for them, who by His grace moved their hearts to repentance, who awakened them to their need of repentance, receives them now into His joy. Oh, how they love Him! The realization of their hope is infinitely greater than their expectation. Their joy is complete, and they take their glittering crowns and cast them at their Redeemer’s feet.” -Review, June 18,1901 (Counsels on Stewardship, 349:1-2).

Only a Little While Now.- “It will only be a little while before Jesus will come to save His children and to give them the finishing touch of immortality. ‘This corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality.’ The graves will be opened, and the dead will come forth victorious, crying, ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?’ Our loved ones who sleep in Jesus will come forth clothed with immortality.

“And as the redeemed shall ascend to heaven, the gates of the city of God will swing back, and those who have kept the truth will enter in. A voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, will be heard saying, ‘Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’ Then the righteous will receive their reward. Their lives will run parallel with the life of Jehovah. They will cast their crowns at the Redeemer’s feet, touch the golden harps, and fill all heaven with rich music.” -Signs, April 15, 1889 (Counsels on Stewardship 350:1-2).

Gratitude of the Redeemed.- “All praise, honor, and glory will be given to God and to the Lamb for our redemption; but it will not detract from the glory of God to express gratitude to the instrumentality He has employed in the salvation of souls ready to perish.” -6 Testimonies, 311:O (Publishing Ministry, 402:7).

“ ‘Thou shall delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. ‘ Isaiah 58: 14.” -6 Testimonies, 312:2 (publishing Ministry, 404:1).

10-Gospel Workers 512:1-519:2

The Reward of Service.-”When thou makest a dinner or a supper,’ said Christ, ‘call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompense be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: and thou shall be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shall be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.’ [1 Luke 14: 12-14).

“In these words Christ draws a contrast between the self-seeking practices of the world, and the unselfish ministry of which He has given an example in His own life. For such ministry He offers no reward of worldly gain or recognition. ‘Thou shall be recompensed,’ He says, ‘at the resurrection of the just.’ Then the results of every life will be made manifest, and every one will reap that which he has sown.”-Gospel Workers, 512:1-2.

“All who consecrate body, soul, and spirit to God’s service will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical, mental, and spiritual power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth His highest energies to work in heart and mind.

“ ‘Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and your health shall spring forth speedily.’ Thou shall ‘call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shall cry, and He shall say, Here I am.’

‘Thy light’ shall ‘rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.’ [Isaiah 58:811 ).

“Many are God’s promises to those who minister to His afflicted ones. He says: ‘Blessed is he that considers the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.’ ‘Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shall thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shall be fed.’ [Psalm 41 :13; 37:3). ‘Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first-fruits of all your increase: so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.’ ‘There is that scatters, and yet increases; and there is that withholds more than is meet, but it tends to poverty.’ ‘He that hath pity upon the poor lends unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will He pay him again.’ ‘The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that waters shall be watered also himself.’ [Proverbs 3:9, 10; 11:24; 19:17; 11:25].

“While much of the fruit of their labor is not apparent in this life, God’s workers have His sure promise of ultimate success. As the world’s Redeemer, Christ was constantly confronted with apparent failure. He seemed to do little of the work which He longed to do in uplifting and saving. Satanic agencies were constantly working to obstruct His way. But He would not be discouraged. Ever before Him He saw the result of His mission. He knew that truth would finally triumph in the contest with evil, and to His disciples He said: ‘These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.’ [John 16:33]. The life of Christ’s disciples is to be like His, a series of uninterrupted victories -not seen to be such here, but recognized as such in the great hereafter.

“Those who labor for the good of others are working in union with the heavenly angels. They have their constant companionship, their unceasing ministry. Angels of light and power are ever near to protect, to comfort, to heal, to instruct, to inspire. The highest education, the truest culture, the most exalted service possible to human beings in this world, are theirs.

“Often our merciful Father encourages His children and strengthens their faith by permitting them here to see evidence of the power of His grace upon the hearts and lives of those for whom they labor. ‘My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, said the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returns not thither, but waters the earth, and makes it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir-tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle-tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.’ (Isaiah 55:8-13).

“In the transformation of character, the casting out of evil passions, the development of the sweet graces of God’s Holy Spirit, we see the fulfillment of the promise, ‘Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and in stead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.’ We behold life’s desert ‘rejoice, and blossom as the rose.’ [Isaiah 35:1].

“Christ delights to take apparently hopeless material, those whom Satan has debased and through whom he has worked, and make them the subjects of His grace. He rejoices to deliver them from suffering, and from the wrath that is to fall upon the disobedient. He makes His children His agents in the accomplishment of this work, and in its success, even in this life, they find a precious reward.”-Gospel Workers, 513:2-516:02.

“The angels were waiting to welcome Jesus, as He ascended after His resurrection. The heavenly host longed to greet again their loved Commander, returned to them from the prison house of death. Eagerly they pressed about Him as He entered the gates of heaven. But He waved them back. His heart was with the lonely, sorrowing band of disciples whom He had left upon Olivet. It is still with His struggling children on earth, who have the battle with the destroyer yet to wage. ‘Father,’ He says, ‘I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.’

“Christ’s redeemed ones are His jewels, His precious and peculiar treasure. ‘They shall be as the stones of a crown,’ - ‘the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints,’ [Zechariah 9:16; Ephesians 1:18]. In them ‘He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.’ [Isaiah 53:11].

“And will not His workers rejoice when they, too, behold the fruit of their labors? The apostle Paul, writing to the Thessalonian converts, says: ‘What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? for ye are our glory and joy,’ [1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20]. And he exhorts the Philippian brethren to be ‘blameless and harmless,’ to ‘shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.’ “[Philippians 2:15-16]. Gospel Workers, 517:1-517:3.

“Wonderful will be the revealing as the lines of holy influence, with their precious results, are brought to view. What will be the gratitude of souls that will meet us in the heavenly courts, as they understand the sympathetic, loving interest which has been taken in their salvation! All praise, honor, and glory will be given to God and to the Lamb for our redemption; but it will not detract from the glory of God to express gratitude to the instrumentality He has employed in the salvation of souls ready to perish,”-Gospel Workers, 518:1.

11-Bible Commentary Volume 7, 988:1-990:6

1 (Isaiah 33:21). No Engulfing Ocean.- “The sea divides friends. It is a barrier between us and those whom we love. Our associations are broken up by the broad, fathomless ocean. In the new earth there will be no more sea, and there shall pass there ‘no galley with oars.’ In the past many who have loved and served God have been bound by chains to their seats in galleys, compelled to serve the purpose of cruel, hardhearted men. The Lord has looked upon their suffering in sympathy and compassion. Thank God, in the earth made new there will be no fierce torrents, no engulfing ocean, no restless, murmuring waves,” -Manuscript 33, 1911 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

1-4, (Isaiah 30:26). God’s Family United at Last.

“Now, the church is militant, now we are confronted with a world in midnight darkness, almost wholly given over to idolatry. But the day is coming in which the battle will have been fought, the victory won. The will of God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. Then the nations will own no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and thanksgiving-the robe of Christ’s righteousness.

“All nature in its surpassing loveliness will offer to God a constant tribute of praise and adoration. The world will be bathed in the light of heaven. The years will move on in gladness. The light of the moon will be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold greater than it is now. Over the scene the morning stars will sing together, and the sons of God will shout for joy, while Christ and God will unite in proclaiming, ‘There shall be no more sin, neither shall there be any more death.’ “ Review, December 17, 1908 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

4 (see EGW on 1 Corinthians 15:51-55). The Christian’s Summer.- “This earth is the place of preparation for heaven. The time spent here is the Christian’s winter. Here the chilly winds of affliction blow upon us, and the waves of trouble roll against us. But in the near future, when Christ comes, sorrow and sighing will be forever ended. Then will be the Christian’s summer. All trials will be over, and there will be no more sickness or death.

1, 2 (chapter 7:17; see EGW on Luke 23:40-43).

Higher Education In the Future Life.- “Christ, the heavenly Teacher, will lead His people to the tree of life that grows on either side of the river of life, and He will explain to them the truths they could not in this life understand. In that future life His people will gain the higher education in its completeness. Those who enter the city of God will have the golden crowns placed upon their heads. That will be a joyful scene that none of us can afford to miss. We shall cast our crowns at the feet of Jesus, and again and again we will give Him the glory and praise His holy name. Angels will unite in the songs of triumph. Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and songs to the Lamb.” Manuscript 1,1909 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

2 (chapter 2:7; Genesis 2:9; see EGW on Genesis 3:22-24; John 5:39). Life-giving Power In Tree of Life.-“The tree of life is a representation of the preserving care of Christ for His children. As Adam and Eve ate of this tree, they acknowledged their dependence upon God. The tree of life possessed the power to perpetuate life, and as long as they ate of it, they could not die. The lives of the antediluvians were protracted because of the life-giving power of this tree, which was transmitted to them from Adam and Eve.” -Review, January 26, 1897 (7 Bible Commentary, 988).

(John 1:4). Life-giving Fruit Ours Through Christ. ”The fruit of the tree of life in the Garden of Eden pos-sessed supernatural virtue. To eat of it was to live forever. Its fruit was the antidote of death. Its leaves were for the sustaining of life and immortality. But through man’s disobedience, death entered the world. Adam ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, the fruit of which he had been forbidden to touch. His transgression opened the floodgates of woe upon our race.

“Of Christ it is written, ‘In him was life; and the life was the light of men.’ He is the fountain of life. Obedience to Him is the life-giving power that gladdens the soul.

“Christ declares: ‘I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.’ [John 6:57, 63; Revelation 2:7, last part, quoted)”-Signs, March 91, 1909 (7 Bible Commentary, 988-789).

(Psalm 19:10; John 6:54-57.) Tree of Life Planted for Us.-”The sons of men have had a practical knowledge of evil, but Christ came to the world to show them that He had planted for them the tree of life, the leaves of which were for the healing of the nations.” -Manuscript 67,1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

“The leaves of the tree of life are proffered you. They are sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. Take them, eat them, digest them, and your faintheartedness will pass away.”-Manuscript 71,1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

“Christ. . was the tree of life to all who would pluck and eat.”-Manuscript 95, 1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

Bible, the Tree of Life to Us.-”Let all bear in mind that the tree of life bears twelve manner of fruits. This represents the spiritual work of our earthly missions. The Word of God is to us the tree of life. Every portion of the Scripture has its use. In every part of the Word is some lesson to be learned. Then learn how to study your Bibles. This book is not a heap of odds and ends. It is an educator. Your own thoughts must be called into exercise before you can be really benefited by Bible study. Spiritual sinew and muscle must be brought to bear upon the Word. The Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance the words of Christ. He will enlighten the mind, and guide the research.” -Letter 3, 1898 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

Christ, the Tree of Life.-”Christ is the source of our life, the source of immortality. He is the tree of life, and to all who come to Him He gives spiritual life.” -Review, January 26, 1897 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

3, 4. A Definition of Heaven.- “Christ is the truth of all that we find in the Father. The definition of heaven is the presence of Christ.

10-12 (chapters 4:3; 10:1; see EGW on chapter 10:7; 2 Peter 3:9). Christ’s Intercession Soon to Cease.“The One who has stood as our intercessor; who hears all penitential prayers and confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love, encircling His head, is soon to cease His work in the heavenly sanctuary. Grace and mercy will then descend from the throne, and justice will take their place. He for whom His people have looked will assume His right -the office of Supreme Judge.” -Review, January 1, 1889 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

Probation Ends When Least Expected.- “When probation ends, it will come suddenly, unexpectedly-at a time when we are least expecting it. But we can have a clean record in heaven today, and know that God accepts us; and finally, if faithful, we shall be gathered into the kingdom of heaven.” -Manuscript 95, 1906 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

No Second Probation.- “There is not a second probation for anyone. Now is probationary time, before the angel shall fold her golden wings, the angel of mercy, and shall step down from the throne, and mercy, mercy is gone forever.” Manuscript, 1894 (7 Bible Commentary, 989).

(John 9:4) Time of Probation’s Close Not Revealed.- “God has not revealed to us the time when this message will close, or when probation will have an end. Those things that are revealed we shall accept for ourselves and for our children; but let us not seek to know that which has been kept secret in the councils of the Almighty.

“Letters have come to me asking me if I have any special light as to the time when probation will close; and I answer that I have only this message to bear, that it is now time to work while the day lasts, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Now, just now, it is time for us to be watching, working, and waiting.

“The Word of the Lord reveals the fact that the end of all things is at hand, and its testimony is most decided that it is necessary for every soul to have the truth planted in the heart so that it will control the life and sanctify the character. The Spirit of the Lord is working to take the truth of the Inspired Word and stamp it upon the soul so that the professed followers of Christ will have a holy, sacred joy that they will be able to impart to others. The opportune time for us to work is now, just now, while the day lasts. But there is no command for anyone to search the Scriptures in order to ascertain, if possible, when probation will close. God has no such message for any mortal lips. He would have no mortal tongue declare that which He has hidden in His secret councils.” -Review, October 9, 1894 (7 Bible Commentary, 989-990).

13-17 (chapter 1:8). The Alpha and Omega of Scripture.-[Revelation 22:13-17, quoted.] “Here we have the Alpha of Genesis and the Omega of Revelation. The blessing is promised to all those who keep the com-mandments of God, and who cooperate with Him in the proclamation of the third angel’s message.” - Review, Herald, June 8, 1897 (7 Bible Commentary, 990).

14 (chapter 20:12, 13; see EGW on Genesis 3:2224; Romans 3:31; 2 Corinthians 3:7-11). City of God for Commandment Keepers.- “None who have had the light of truth will enter the city of God as commandment breakers. His law lies at the foundation of His government in earth and in heaven. If they have knowingly trampled upon and despised His law on the earth, they will not be taken to heaven to do the same work there; there is no change of character when Christ comes. The character building is to go on during the hours of probation. Day by day their actions are registered in the books of heaven, and they will, in the great day of God, be rewarded as their works have been. It will then be seen who receives the blessing.

‘Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” Review, August 25, 1885 (7 Bible Commentary, 990).

12-My Life Today 347:1-369:4

Christ Presents Me With a Crown and Harp

“ ‘Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.’ 2 Timothy 4:8.”

“Oh, what joy unspeakable, to see Him whom we loved-to see Him in His glory who so loved us that He gave Himself for us -to behold those hands once pierced for our redemption stretched out to us in blessing and welcome!”-Signs, November 2, 1882 (My Life Today, 847:2-8).

“Those who. . place themselves in God’s hands. . will see the King in His beauty. They will behold His matchless charms, and touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and with songs to the Lamb.”-Review, June 15, 1905 (My Life Today, 347:4).

Given a White Robe of Righteousness

“The conflict is over. All tribulation and strife are at an end. Songs of victory fill all heaven as the redeemed stand around the throne of God. All take up the joyful strain, ‘Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and lives again, a triumphant conqueror. -Review, November 26, 60 1903 (My Life Today, 348:4).

Victory Over Death

“We have a living, risen Savior. He burst the fetters of the tomb after He had lain there three days, and in triumph He proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, ‘I am the resurrection, and the life.’ And He is coming. Are we getting ready for Him? Are we ready so that if we shall fall asleep, we can do so with hope in Jesus Christ?

“The Life-giver is soon to come. . to break the fetters of the tomb. He is to bring forth the captives. . The last thoughts they had were of the grave and the tomb, but now they proclaim, ‘O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?’ The pangs of death were the last things they felt. . When they awake the pain is all gone. ‘O grave, where is thy victory?’ Here they stand, and the finishing touch of immortality is put upon them, and they go up to meet their Lord in the air. The gates of the city of God swing back upon their hinges, . . and the ransomed of God walk in through the cherubims and seraphims. Christ bids them welcome and puts upon them His benediction. -Manuscript 18, 1894 (My Life Today, 349:23).

“There, there is no burial train, no mourning, no death, no parting, no broken hearts; and Jesus is there, peace is there. . In His presence is fullness of joy, at His right hand there are pleasures forevermore!” - Signs, February 8, 1892 (My Life Today 349:4).

No More Sin

“ ‘And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: and they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.’ Revelation 22:3, 4.”

“Then we shall enjoy with Him all the glories of the world to come throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. . There is nothing in the kingdom of God to disturb or annoy. This is the life that is promised to the overcomer-a life of happiness and peace, a life of love and beauty. . There is no sin, no distracting care, nothing to mar the peace of the inhabitant.” -Signs, November 10, 1887 (My Life Today, 350:3-4).

As Heirs, We Inherit the Kingdom

“Before the ransomed throng is the holy city. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates, and the nations that have kept the truth enter in. There they behold the Paradise of God, the home of Adam in his innocence.

“Now is fulfilled the Savior’s prayer for His disciples, ‘I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.’ ‘Faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy,’ Christ presents to the Father the purchase of His blood, declaring, ‘Here am I, and the children whom Thou hast given Me.’ ‘Those that Thou gavest Me I have kept.’ Oh, the wonders of redeeming love! the rapture of that hour when the infinite Father, looking upon the ransomed, shall behold His image, sin’s discord banished, its blight removed, the human once more in harmony with the divine!”-Great Controversy, 646:1- 2 (My Life Today, 351:2-3).

Families Will Be Reunited

“ ‘Refrain thy voice from weeping, and your eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded, said the Lord; and they shall come again from the land of the enemy. And there Is hope In your end, said the Lord, that thy children shall come again to their own border. ‘ Jeremiah 31: 16, 17.”

“Christ is coming with clouds and with great glory. . He will come to raise the dead, and to change the living saints from glory to glory. . There will be a relinking of the family chain.” -Desire of Ages, 632:3 (My Life Today, 352:2).

“Oh, wonderful redemption I long talked of, long hoped for, contemplated with eager anticipation.

“With joy unutterable parents see the crown, the robe, the harp, given to their children. The days of hope and fear are ended. . Their children have been redeemed. Signs, July 1, 1886 (My Life Today, 352:5).

“There we shall see on every hand the beautiful trees of Paradise, in the midst of them the tree of life. There we shall behold with undimmed vision the beauties of Eden restored. There we shall cast at the feet of our Redeemer the crowns that He has placed on our heads, and touching our golden harps, we shall offer praise and thanksgiving to Him that sits on the throne. . May you all be among those who shall enter through the gates of pearl into the city of our God. May you, as unbroken families, dwell forever in that haven of rest. To this end may God help you now to strive for the crown of life.-Review, September 3, 1903.

We Shall Recognize Each Other

“ ‘Now I know in part; but then I shall know even as also I am known.’ 1 Corinthians 13:12.”

“In the mansions above we shall meet to part no more. We shall know each other in our heavenly home.” - Signs, June 20, 1911.

A Beautiful Country

“‘And truly if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that Is, a heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.’ Hebrews 11:15, 16.”

“The grass will be a living green, and will never wither. There will be roses and lilies and all kinds of flowers there. They will never blight or fade or lose their beauty and fragrance.

“The lion, we should much dread and fear here, will then lie down with the Iamb, and everything in the New Earth will be peace and harmony. The trees of the New Earth will be straight and lofty, without deformity.” Youth’s Instructor, October, 1852 (My Life Today, 354:1, 4-5).

“In the New Earth there are no chilling winds, no disagreeable changes. The atmosphere is ever right and healthful.” -Diary, March 24, 1859 (My Life Today, 354:6).

Eat of the Tree of Life

“‘In the midst of the street of it, and on neither side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.’ Revelation 22:2.”

“Out of the throne came a pure river of water, and on either side of the river was the tree of life. . The fruit was glorious; it looked like gold mixed with silver.” –Early Writings, 17 (My Life Today, 355:1-2).

“The redeemed saints, who have loved God and kept His commandments here, will enter in through the gates of the city, and have right to the tree of life. They will eat freely of it as our first parents did before their fall. The leaves of that immortal widespread tree will be for the healing of the nations. All their woes will then be gone. Sickness, sorrow, and death they will never again feel, for the leaves of the tree of life have healed them. Jesus will then see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied, when the redeemed, who have been subject to sorrow, toil, and afflictions, who have groaned beneath the curse, are gathered up around that tree of life to eat of its immortal fruit that our first parents forfeited all right to by breaking God’s commands. There will be no danger of their ever losing right to the tree of life again, for he that tempted our first parents to sin will be destroyed by the second death.” Youth’s Instructor, October 1852 (My Life Today, 355:4).

“Upon the tree of life was most beautiful fruit, of which the saints could partake freely. . The most exalted language fails to describe the glory of heaven or the match less depths of a Savior’s love.” -Early Writings, 289 (My Life Today, 355:5).

At the Marriage Supper

“In both the Old and New Testament the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people. To the mind of Jesus the gladness of the wedding festivities pointed forward to the rejoicing of that day when He shall bring home His bride to the Father’s house, and the redeemed with the Redeemer shall sit down to the marriage supper of the Lamb. He says, ‘As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee.’ ‘Thou shall no more be termed Forsaken; . . but thou shall be called My Delight [margin]; . . for the Lord delights in thee.’ ‘He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing.’ When the vision of heavenly things was granted to John the apostle, he wrote: ‘I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thundering, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready.’ “Jesus saw in every soul one to whom must be given the call to His kingdom.”-Desire of Ages, 151:1-2 (My Life Today, 356:2-3).

“Having received the kingdom, He will come in His glory, as King of kings and Lord of lords, for the redemption of His people, who are to ‘sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob’ at His table in His kingdom, to partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb.” -Great Controversy, 427:O (My Life Today, 356:4).

The Glories of Our Heavenly Home

“ ‘And the building of the wall of it was ofjasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones.’ Revelation 21: 18-19.”

“The glorious city of God has twelve gates, set with pearls most glorious. It also has twelve foundations of various colors. The streets of the city are of pure gold. In this city is the throne of God, and a pure, beautiful river proceeding out of it, as clear as crystal. Its sparkling purity and beauty make glad the city of God. The saints will drink freely of the healing waters of the river of life.

“All faces will reflect the image of their Redeemer. There will then be no anxious, troubled countenances, but all will be bright, and smiling in spotless purity. The angels win be there, also the resurrected saints with the martyrs, and the best of all, and what will cause us the most joy, our lovely Savior, who suffered and died that we might enjoy that happiness and freedom, will be there. His glorious face will shine brighter than the sun, and light up the beautiful city and reflect glory all around.

“Children will be there. They will never be engaged in strife or discord. Their love will be fervent and holy. They will also have a crown of gold upon their heads and a harp in their hands. And their little countenances, that we here see so often troubled and perplexed, will beam with holy joy, expressive of their perfect freedom and happiness.

“The saints will have crowns of glory upon their heads and harps of gold in their hands. They will play upon the golden harp and sing redeeming love, and make melody unto God. Their former trials and suffering in this world will be forgotten and lost amid the glories of the New Earth. And they will ever have the approving smiles of Jesus upon them, and their happiness will be complete. . The future abode of the saints will be all glorious.” - Youth’s Instructor, October, 1852 (My Life Today, 357:1-5).

Labor for Pleasure and Enjoyment

“There certainly is and ever will be employment in heaven. The whole family of the redeemed will not live in a state of dreamy idleness. There remaineth a rest to the people of God. In heaven activity will not be wearing and burdensome; it will be rest. The whole family of the redeemed will find their delight in serving Him whose they are by creation and by redemption.” -Letter 11, 1899 (My Life Today, 358:6).

“To the weary and heavy laden, to those who have fought the good fight of faith, it will be a glorious rest; for the youth and vigor of immortality will be theirs, and against sin and Satan they will no longer have to contend.” -Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 99 (My Life Today, 358:7).

Harmonious Social Life

“‘The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea. I have a goodly heritage.’ Psalm 16:6.”

“Heaven is full of joy. It resounds with the praise of Him who made so wonderful a sacrifice for the redemption of the human race. Should not the church on earth be full of praise? Should not Christians publish throughout the world the joy of serving Christ? Those who in heaven join with the angelic choir in their anthem of praise must learn on earth the song of heaven, the keynote of which is thanksgiving,”-7 Testimonies, 244:2 (My Life Today, 359:4).

“Everything in heaven is noble and elevated. All seek the interest and happiness of others. No one devotes himself to looking out and caring for self. It is the chief joy of all holy beings to witness the joy and happiness of those around them,” -2 Testimonies, 239:O (My Life Today, 359:5).

“If you have trials here, and feel lonesome, look away from this dark world to the bright glories of heaven. Set your affections upon heavenly joys, and then you will not feel so deeply the trials and disappointments of this life, for you will feel that you have a home in glory, a crown, a harp, and a lovely Savior there. Strive for that blest inheritance which God has promised to those that love Him and keep His commandments.” - Youth ‘s Instructor, October, 1852 (My Life Today, 359:6).

Study God’s Wisdom Throughout Eternity

“ ‘The God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened.’ Ephesians 1:17-18,”

“The science of redemption is the science of all sciences, the science that is the study of the angels and of all the intelligences of the unfallen worlds, the science that engages the attention of our Lord and Savior, the science that enters into the purpose brooded in the mind of the Infinite-’kept in silence through times eternal,’ the science that will be the study of God’s redeemed throughout the endless ages. This is the highest study in which it is possible for man to engage. As no other study can, it will quicken the mind and uplift the soul.

“The subject is inexhaustible. The study of the incarnation of Christ, His atoning sacrifice, and mediatorial work will employ the mind of the diligent student as long as time shall last; and looking to heaven with its unnumbered years, he will exclaim, ‘Great is the mystery of godliness.’

“In eternity we shall learn that which, had we received the enlightenment that it was possible to obtain here, would have opened our understanding. The themes of redemption will employ the hearts and minds and tongues of the redeemed through the everlasting ages. They will understand the truths which Christ longed to open to His disciples, but which they did not have faith to grasp. Forever and forever new views of the perfection and glory of Christ will appear. Through endless ages the faithful Householder will bring forth from His treasures things new and old.”-Signs, April 18, 1906. (My Life Today, 360:1-2, 4-5).

“Since God is infinite, and in Him are all the treasures of wisdom, we may to all eternity be ever searching, ever learning, yet never exhaust the riches of His wisdom, His goodness, or H is power.” -Signs, April 25, 1906.

Christ Will Teach the Redeemed

“‘And they shall be all taught of God.’ “ John 6:45.

“In the school of Christ students never graduate. Among the pupils are both the old and the young. Those who give heed to the instructions of the Divine Teacher constantly advance in wisdom, refinement, and nobility of soul, and thus they are prepared to enter that higher school, where advancement will continue throughout eternity. Over in this home of the blest, to bear in soul, body, and spirit, not the dark traces of sin and the curse, but the perfect likeness of our Creator, and through ceaseless ages to advance in wisdom, in knowledge and holiness, ever exploring new fields of thought, ever finding new wonders and new glories, ever increasing in capacity to know and to enjoy and to love, and knowing that there is still beyond us joy and love and wisdom infinite such is the object to which the Christian hope is pointing.” -Good Health, August, 1882 (My Life Today, 361:1-2).

“In the world to come Christ will lead the redeemed beside the river of life and will teach them wonderful lessons of truth. He will unfold to them the mysteries of nature. They will see that a master hand holds the world in position. They will behold the skill displayed by the great Artist in coloring the flowers of the field, and will learn of the purposes of the merciful Father, who dispenses every ray of light, and with the holy angels the redeemed will acknowledge in songs of grateful praise God’s supreme love to an unthankful world. Then it will be understood that ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ “-Review, January 3, 1907 (My Life Today, 361:4).

“He [Christ] will impart rich stores of knowledge. He will unravel mysteries in the providences of God which in this life we are unable to understand.” -Letter 242, 1908 (My Life Today, 361:5).

“We must get an education here that will enable us to live with God through the eternal ages. The education we begin here will be perfected in heaven. We will only just enter a higher grade.” -Manuscript 16, 1895 (My life Today, 361:6).

Travel to Worlds Afar

“‘These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goes. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.’ Revelation 14:4.”-My Life Today, 362:1.

“Then was the melody of heaven heard by mortal ears, and the heavenly choir swept back to heaven as they closed their ever memorable anthem. The light faded away. . ; but there remained in the hearts of the shepherds the brightest picture mortal man had ever looked upon, and the blessed promise and assurance of the advent to our world of the Savior of men, which filled their hearts with joy and gladness, mingled with faith and wondrous love to God.” -Review, December 9, 1884 (My Life Today, 363:4).

“O that today the human family could recognize that song! The declaration then made, the note then struck, will swell to the close of time and resound to the ends of the earth. When the Sun of Righteousness shall arise, with healing in His wings, that song will be re-echoed by the voice of a great multitude, as the voice of many waters, saying, ‘Alleluia, for the Lord God omnipotent reigns.’“ -1 Selected Messages, 250:2 (My Life Today, 363:5).

Worship Together

“‘For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, said the Lord, so shall your seed and your name remain. And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, said the Lord.’ Isaiah 66:22-23.”

“In the beginning the Father and the Son had rested upon the Sabbath after their work of creation. When ‘the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them,’ the Creator and all heavenly beings rejoiced in contemplation of the glorious scene. ‘The morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.’

“When there shall be a ‘restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began,’ the creation Sabbath, the day on which Jesus lay at rest in Joseph’s tomb, will still be a day of rest and rejoicing. Heaven and earth will unite in praise, as ‘from one Sabbath to another’ the nations of the saved shall bow in joyful worship to God and the Lamb.” -Desire of Ages, 769-770.

“So long as the heavens and the earth endure, the Sabbath will continue as a sign of the Creator’s power. And when Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s holy rest day will be honored by all beneath the sun.” - Desire of Ages, 283:2 (My Life Today, 364:2-3, 6).

Privilege of Open Communion With God

“ ‘I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.’ “ Revelation 21 :22.

“We may address Him by the endearing name, ‘Our Father,’ which is a sign of our affection for Him and a pledge of His tender regard and relationship to us. And the Son of God, beholding the heirs of grace, ‘is not ashamed to call them brethren.’ They have even a more sacred relationship to God than have the angels who have never fallen.

“All the paternal love which has come down from generation to generation through the channel of human hearts, all the springs of tenderness which have opened in the souls of men, are but as a tiny rill to the boundless ocean when compared with the infinite, exhaustless love of God.”-Review, October 22, 1908 (My Life Today, 365:2-3).

“Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ. The longer we are in the heaven of bliss, the more and still more of glory will be opened to us; and the more we know of God,

the more intense will be our happiness.”-Desire of Ages, 331:8 (My Life Today, 365:5).

“And what is the happiness of heaven but to see God? What greater joy could come to the sinner saved by the grace of Christ than to look upon the face of God and know Him as Father?”

-8 Testimonies, 268:O (My Life Today, 365, 6).

“How much comfort it gives to behold Him here by the eye of faith, that we may by beholding be made like Him, but what will it be to behold Him as He is, without one dimming veil between?” -Bible Echo, January 15, 1892 (My Life Today, 365:7).

The Veil Will Be Drawn Aside

“ ‘Now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face.’ 1 Corinthians 13: 12.” Why the Great Controversy Was Permitted

“ ‘And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the Intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.’ “ Ephesians 3:9, 10.

The Eternal Weight of Glory

“ ‘For our light affliction, which Is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. ‘ 2 Corinthians 4:17.”

“I was pointed to the glory of heaven, to the treasure laid up for the faithful. Everything was lovely and glorious. The angels would sing a lovely song, then they would cease singing and take their crowns from their heads and cast them glittering at the feet of the lovely Jesus, and with melodious voices cry, ‘Glory, Alleluia! I joined with them in their songs of praise and honor to the Lamb, and every time I opened my mouth to praise Him, I felt an unutterable sense of the glory that surrounded me. It was a far more, an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Said the angel, ‘The little remnant who love God and keep His commandments and are faithful to the end will enjoy this glory and ever be in the presence of Jesus and sing with the holy angels.’ “-Early Writings, 66:1 (Faith I Live By, 359:1-2).

“The work of salvation is not child’s play, to be taken hold of at will and let alone at pleasure. It is the steady purpose, the untiring effort, that will gain the victory at last. It is he who endures to the end that shall be saved. It is they who patiently continue in well-doing that shall have eternal life and the immortal reward.”-2 Testimonies, 101:1-102:O (Faith I Live By, 359:5).

Living the Life of Eden

“The prophet of Patmos thus describes the location of the school of the hereafter:

“‘I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away. . And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.’ Revelation 21:1, 2.”-Education, 301:3-4..

“The giving of the tree of life in Eden was conditional, and it was finally withdrawn. But the gifts of the future life are absolute and eternal.”-Education, 302:1 (Faith I Live By, 345:3-5).

Bright Beams of Glory

“‘And his brightness was as the light; he had bright beams out of his side: and there was the hiding of his power.’ Habakkuk 3:4, margin.”

“Satan, by means of his success in turning man aside from the path of obedience, became ‘the god of this world.’ 2 Corinthians 4:4. The dominion that once was Adam’s, passed to the usurper. But the Son of God proposed to come to this earth to pay the penalty of sin, and thus not only redeem man, but recover the dominion forfeited . . The apostle Paul has referred to it [the restoration of the lost dominion] as ‘the redemption of the purchased possession.’ Ephesians 1:14.”-Prophets and Kings, 682:1 (Faith I Live By, 361:1-2).

“Not only man but the earth had by sin come under the power of the wicked one, and was to be restored by the plan of redemption.”-Patriarchs and Prophets, 67:1 (Faith I Live By, 961:9).

No More Death-Ever!

“In the home of the redeemed there will be no tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. ‘The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity.’ Isaiah 33:24. One rich tide of happiness will flow and deepen as eternity rolls on.-9 Testimonies, 286:3

“It will not be long till we shall see Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. And in His presence, all the trials and sufferings of this life will be as nothingness. . Look up, look up, and let your faith continually increase. Let this faith guide you along the narrow path that leads through the gates of the city of God into the great beyond, the wide, unbounded future of glory that is for the redeemed.” -9 Testimonies, 287:2-288:O (Faith I Live By, 362:2, 5).

The Metropolis of the World

“ ‘And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in It: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb Is the light thereof.’ Revelation 21 :23.”

“The streets of the city are paved with pure gold, and. . the gates of the city are of gold set with pearls. The riches obtained here may be consumed. . There no thief shall approach; no moth or rust shall corrupt. . You will have an imperishable treasure which you can be in no danger of losing.” -Signs, January 31, 1878 (Faith I Live By, 363:6).

“Let us determine that if it costs everything we will have heaven and become partakers of the divine nature.” Signs, January 27, 1888 (Faith I Live By, 363:6).

Two Worlds Compared

“The glory of the eternal world has been opened before me. I want to tell you that heaven is worth winning. It should be the aim of your life to fit yourself for association with the redeemed, with holy angels, and with Jesus, the world’s Redeemer. If we could have but one view of the celestial city, we would never wish to dwell on earth again. There are beautiful landscapes on earth, and I enjoy all these prospects of loveliness in nature. I associate them with the Creator. But I know that if I love God, and keep His commandments, there is a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory reserved in heaven for me.”Signs, April 8, 1889 (Faith I Live By, 364:2).

“Let your imagination picture the home of the saved, and remember that it will be more glorious than your brightest imagination can portray. In the varied gifts of God in nature we see butt he faintest gleaming of His glory.” Steps to Christ, 86:2-87:O (Faith I Live By, 364:4).

The Blessedness of Heaven

“ ‘He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.’ Revelation 21:7.”.

“No man stumbles into heaven. No man goes there blindfold. If he will take time to consider, every man may know whether he is in the strait and narrow path, or in the broad road that leads to death and hell.” - Bible Echo, July 31, 1899 (Faith I Live By, 361:1-2).

“If we do not receive the religion of Christ by feeding upon the Word of God, we shall not be entitled to an entrance into the city of God. Having lived on earthly food, having educated our tastes to love worldly things, we would not be fitted for the heavenly courts; we could not appreciate the pure, heavenly current that circulates in heaven. The voices of the angels and the music of their harps would not satisfy us. The science of heaven would be as an enigma to our minds. We need to hunger and thirst for the righteousness of Christ; we need to be molded and fashioned by the transforming influence of His grace, that we may be fitted for the society of heavenly angels.”-Review, May 4, 1897.

“Then the nations will own no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and thanksgiving. . Over the scene the morning stars will sing together, and the sons of God will shout for joy, while God and Christ will unite in proclaiming, ‘There shall be no more sin. neither shall there be any more death.’ “-8 Testimonies, 42:1 (Faith I Live By, 365:5).

“We want to get in the habit of talking of heaven, beautiful heaven. Talk of that life which will continue as long as God shall live, and then you will forget your little trials and difficulties. Let the mind be attracted to God,” Historical Sketches of SDA Missions, 148 (Faith I Live By, 365:6).

Speculations About the Future Life

“‘For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given In marriage; but are as the angels which are In heaven.’ Mark 12:25.”

“There are men today who express their belief that there will be marriages and births in the new earth, but those who believe the Scriptures cannot accept such doctrines. The doctrine that children will be born in the

new earth is not a part of the ‘sure word of prophecy.’ The words of Christ are too plain to be misunderstood. They should forever settle the question of marriages and births in the new earth. Neither those who shall be raised from the dead, nor those who shall be translated without seeing death, will marry or be given in marriage. They will be as the angels of God, members of the royal family.

The Eternity Beyond

“I would say to those who hold views contrary to this plain declaration of Christ: Upon such matters silence is eloquence. It is presumption to indulge in suppositions and theories regarding matters that God has not made known to us in His Word. We need not enter into speculation regarding our future state.

“ ‘Preach the word; be Instant in season, out of season.’ 2 Timothy 4:2.”

“Do not bring to the foundation wood, and hay, and stubble -your own surmisings and speculations, which can benefit no one.

“Christ withheld no truths essential to our salvation. Those things that are revealed are for us and our chil-dren, but we are not to allow our imagination to frame doctrines concerning things not revealed.” - Medical Ministry, 99:4-100:3 (Faith I Live By, 366:1-5).

Heaven Begins on Earth

“ ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’- Matthew 11:28.” “Heaven is to begin on this earth.”-Testimonies, Volume 7, 131:4. (Faith I Live By, 367:1-2).

“When the Lord’s people are filled with meekness and tenderness, they will realize that His banner over them is love, and His fruit will be sweet to their taste. They will make a heaven below in which to prepare for heaven above.”-7 Testimonies, 131:4 (Faith I Live By, 367:5).

“As we walk with Jesus in this life, we may be filled with His love, satisfied with His presence. All that human nature can bear, we may receive here. But what is this compared with the hereafter? There ‘are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sits on the throne shall dwell among them. . For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters.’ Revelation 7:15-17.”-Desire of Ages, 331:3-332:O (Faith I Live By, 367:6).

The Race for Eternal Life

“ ‘Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that Is set before us.’ Hebrews 12:1.”

“ ‘If thy hand offend thee’ the Savior said, ‘cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having thy two hands to go into hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched.

Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thy foot offend thee, it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having thy two feet to be cast into hell,’ Mark 9:43-45, R. V. If to save the body from death, the foot or the hand should be cut off, or even the eye plucked out, how much more earnest should the Christian be to put away sin, which brings death to the soul!

“The competitors in the ancient games, after they had submitted to self-denial and rigid discipline, were not even then sure of the victory.

“Such is not the case in the Christian warfare. Not one who complies with the conditions will be disappointed at the end of the race. Not one who is earnest and persevering will fail of success. The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong. The weakest saint, as well as the strongest, may wear the crown of immortal glory. All may win who, through the power of divine grace, bring their lives into conformity to the will of Christ.” - Acts of the Apostles, 312:1-2; 313:2 (Faith I Live By, 369:3-5).

Reward for Soul Winners

“ ‘And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.’ Daniel 12:3.”

“Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather about the throne of God and of the Lamb. . They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity.” -9 Testimonies, 285:1 (Faith I Live By, 370:3)..

“A Christian once said that when he reached heaven he expected to meet with three causes of wonder. He would wonder to find some that he did not expect to see there. He would wonder not to see some that he expected to meet, and, lastly, he would wonder most to find so unworthy a sinner as himself in the Paradise of God. Many who have stood in high places as Christians upon earth will not be found with the happy throng that shall surround the throne. Those who have had knowledge and talent, and yet have delighted in controversy and unholy strife, will not have a place with the redeemed. . They desired to do some great work, that they might be admired and flattered by men, but their names were not written in the Lamb’s book of life. ‘I know you not,’ are the sad words that Christ addresses to such. But those whose lives were made beautiful by little acts of kindness, by tender words of affection and sympathy, whose hearts recoiled from strife and contention, who never did any great work in order to be lauded of men, these are found recorded in the Lamb’s book of life. Though the world counted them as insignificant, they are approved of God before the assembled universe.” -Signs, February 24, 1890 (Faith I Live By, 370:3).

The Knowledge of God Covers the Earth

13-Reflecting Christ 378:1-8

“ ‘For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.’ Isaiah 11:9.”

“ ‘He who loves pureness of heart, for the grace of the lips the king shall be his friend.’ Proverbs 22:11,”

“Into the City of God there will enter nothing that defiles. All who are to be dwellers there will here have be-come pure in heart. In one who is learning of Jesus, there will be manifest a growing distaste for careless manners, unseemly language, and coarse thought. When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner.

“But the words of Jesus, ‘Blessed are the pure in heart,’ have a deeper meaning-not merely pure in the sense in which the world understands purity, free from that which is sensual, pure from lust, but true in the hidden purposes and motives of the soul, free from pride and self seeking, humble, unselfish, childlike.” - Mount of Blessing, 24:3-25:1.

“To hearts that have become purified through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, all is changed. These can know God. Moses was hid in the cleft of the rock when the glory of the Lord was revealed to him; and it is when we are hid in Christ that we behold the love of God.

“By faith we behold Him here and now. In our daily experience we discern His goodness and compassion in the manifestation of His providence. . The pure in heart see God in a new and endearing relation, as their Redeemer; and while they discern the purity and loveliness of His character, they long to reflect His image. They see Him as a Father longing to embrace a repenting son, and their hearts are filled with joy unspeakable and full of glory.

“The pure in heart discern the Creator in the works of His mighty hand, in the things of beauty that comprise the universe. In His Written Word they read in clearer lines the revelation of His mercy, His goodness, and His grace.

“The beauty and preciousness of truth, which are undiscerned by the worldly-wise, are constantly unfolding to those who have a trusting, childlike desire to know and to do the will of God. We discern the truth by becoming, ourselves, partakers of the divine nature.

“The pure in heart live as in the visible presence of God during the time He apportions them in this world. And they will also see Him face to face in the future, immortal state, as did Adam when he walked and talked with God in Eden.”-Mount of Blessing, 26:2-27:1 (Reflecting Christ, 378:1-8).

14- Amazing Grace 358:1-367:4

“‘To him that overcomes will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.’ Revelation 2:7.”

“There will be employment in Heaven. The redeemed state is not one of idle repose.” -Bible Commentary, Volume 3, 1164.

“‘Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.’ Psalm 16:11.”

“During His ministry Jesus lived to a great degree an outdoor life. . Much of His teaching was given in the open air.”-Ministry of Healing, 52:2 (Amazing Grace, 363:2).

“The Bible presents to our view the unsearchable riches and immortal treasures of heaven. Man’s strongest impulse urges him to seek his own happiness, and the Bible recognizes this desire and shows us that all heaven will unite with man in his efforts to gain true happiness. It reveals the condition upon which the peace of Christ is given to men. It describes a home of everlasting happiness and sunshine, where no tears nor want shall ever be known.”-My Life Today, 160:2 (Amazing Grace, 363:4).

“‘Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. ‘ Matthew 18:10.

“With the Word of God in his hands, every human being . . may have such companionship as he shall choose . . He may dwell in this world in the atmosphere of heaven, . . drawing nearer and nearer the threshold of the eternal world, until the portals shall open, and he shall enter there. He will find himself no stranger. The voices that will greet him are the voices of the holy ones, who, unseen, were on earth his companions-voices that here he learned to distinguish and to love. He who through the Word of God has lived in fellowship with heaven will find himself at home in heaven’s companionship.” Education, 127:1 (Amazing Grace, 364:1-2, 4).

“‘And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.’ Isaiah 54: 13.”

“Between the school established in Eden at the beginning and the school of the hereafter there lies the whole compass of this world’s history -the history of human transgression and suffering, of divine sacrifice, and of victory over death and sin. Not all the conditions of the first school of Eden will be found in the school of the future life. No tree of knowledge of good and evil will afford opportunity for temptation. No tempter is there, no possibility of wrong. Every character has withstood the testing of evil, and none are longer susceptible to its power.” Education, 301:6-302:O.

“Those who have made the most of their privileges to reach the highest attainments here, will take these valuable acquisitions with them into the future life. They have sought and obtained that which is imperishable. The capability to appreciate the glories that ‘eye hath not seen, nor ear heard,’ will be proportionate to the attainments reached in the cultivation of the faculties in this life.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 49:1 (Amazing Grace, 365:2-3, 5).

“‘My people shall know my name: . . they shall know In that day that I am he that doth speak: behold, it is I.’ Isaiah 52:6.”

“Every right principle, every truth learned in an earthly school, will advance us just that much in the heavenly school.”- Counsels to Teachers, 208:3-209:O (Amazing Grace, 366:1, 7).

“ ‘For we know In part, and we prophecy In part. But when that which Is perfect Is come, then that which is In part shall be done away.’ 1 Corinthians 13:9, 10.”

“By faith we should look to the hereafter and grasp the pledge of God of a growth of intellect, the human faculties uniting with the divine, and every power of the soul being brought into direct contact with the Source of light. We may rejoice that all that has perplexed us in the providences of God will then be made plain; things hard to be understood will find an explanation.”-Testimonies, Volume 5, 706:1 (Amazing Grace, 367:1-2).

15A-Maranatha 316:1-334:5

“‘Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and Is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.’ Hebrews 12:2.”

“ ‘These things have I spoken unto you, , said Christ, ‘that my joy might remain In you, and that your joy might be full. ‘ John 15:11.”

“Ever before Him, Christ saw the result of His mission. His earthly life, so full of toil and self-sacrifice, was cheered by the thought that He would not have all this travail for nought. By giving His life for the life of men, He would restore in humanity the image of God. He would lift us up from the dust, reshape the character after the pattern of His own character, and make it beautiful with His own glory.

“Christ saw of the travail of His soul and was satisfied. He viewed the expanse of eternity and saw the happiness of those who through His humiliation should receive pardon and everlasting life. He was wounded for their transgressions, bruised for their iniquities. The chastisement of their peace was upon Him, and with His stripes they were healed. He heard the shout of the redeemed. He heard the ransomed ones singing the song of Moses and the Lamb. Although the baptism of blood must first be received, although the sins of the world were to weigh upon His innocent soul, although the shadow of an unspeakable woe was upon Him; yet for the joy that was set before Him He chose to endure the cross and despised the shame.

“This joy all His followers are to share. However great and glorious hereafter, our reward is not all to be reserved for the time of final deliverance. Even here we are by faith to enter into the Savior’s joy,” - Ministry of Healing, 504:1-3.

“‘The King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. ‘ Matthew 25:40,”

“There is a heaven before us, and among its inhabitants there will be no strife.

“We shall greet the holy family of the redeemed, and hear the words of Christ, ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’

We shall touch our golden harps, and heaven will ring with rich music. We shall cast our glittering crowns at His feet, and give glory to Him who has overcome in our behalf.”-Review, August 8, 1907 (Maranatha, 317:1, 5, 6).

“The love of God is without measure, without comparison, it is infinite. . When we contemplate the dignity and glory of Christ we see how great was that love that prompted the sacrifice made upon the cross of Calvary for the redemption of a lost world. This theme will fill the saints with wonder and amazement through eternal ages, and why should we not meditate upon it here in this world?

“O the mystery of godliness -God manifest in the flesh! This mystery increases as we try to comprehend it. It is incomprehensible, and yet human beings will allow worldly, earthly things to intercept the faint view it is possible for mortals to have of Jesus and His matchless love. . How can we be enthusiastic over earthly, common things and not be stirred with this picture -the cross of Calvary, the love that is revealed in the death of God’s dear Son .. ?

“All this humiliation and anguish were endured to bring back the wanderers, guilty and thankless, to the Father’s house. O the home of the blest -I cannot afford to lose it! I shall, if saved in the kingdom of God, be constantly discerning new depths in the plan of salvation. All the redeemed saints will see and appreciate as never before the love of the Father and the Son, and songs of praise will burst forth from immortal tongues. He loved us, He gave His life for us. With glorified bodies, with enlarged capacities, with hearts made pure, with lips undefiled, we shall sing the riches of redeeming love. There will be no suffering ones in heaven, no skeptics whom we must labor to convince of the reality of eternal things, no prejudices to uproot, but all will be susceptible to that love which passes knowledge. Rest, thank God, there is a rest for the people of God, where Jesus will lead the redeemed into green pastures, by the streams of living waters which make glad the city of our God: Then the prayer of Jesus to His Father will be answered: ‘I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am.’ “-That I May Know Him, 371:2-4 (Maranatha 318:2-4).

“Then the redeemed will be welcomed to the home that Jesus is preparing for them.” -Steps to Christ, 126:1 (Maranatha, 319:4).

“‘The Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.’ 1 Samuel 16:7.”

“Often we regard as hopeless subjects the very ones whom Christ is drawing to Himself. , Many will be in heaven who their neighbors supposed would never enter there, Man judges from appearance, but God judges the heart,”-Christ’s Object Lessons, 71:1-72:O (Maranatha., 320:2).

“Some among the redeemed will have laid hold of Christ in the last hours of life, and in heaven instruction will be given to these, who, when they died, did not understand perfectly the plan of salvation.”-Bible Commentary, Volume 5, 1124 (Maranatha., 320:2).

“To Jesus in His agony on the cross there came one gleam of comfort. It was the prayer of the penitent thief .. In Jesus, bruised, mocked, and hanging upon the cross, he sees the Lamb of God, that takes away the sin of the world. Hope is mingled with anguish in his voice as the helpless, dying soul casts himself upon a dying Savior. ‘Lord, remember me,’ he cries, ‘when thou comes into thy kingdom.’

“Quickly the answer came. . Verily I say unto thee today, Thou shall be with Me in paradise.” -Desire of Ages, 749:3-750:1-2 (Maranatha, 320:4).

“Such faith may be represented by the eleventh hour laborers who receive as much reward as do those who have labored for many hours, The thief asked in faith, in penitence, in contrition, He asked in earnestness, as if he fully realized that Jesus could save him if He would.” Bible Commentary, Volume 5, 1125 (Maranatha, 320:5).

“Those whom Christ commends in the judgment may have known little of theology, but they have cherished His principles. . Among the heathen are those who worship God ignorantly, those to whom the light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not perish. Though ignorant of the written law of God. they have heard His voice speaking to them in nature, and have done the things that the law required. Their works are evidence that the Holy Spirit has touched their hearts, and they are recognized as the children of God.

“How surprised and gladdened will be the lowly among the nations, and among the heathen, to hear from the lips of the Savior, ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me’! How glad will be the heart of Infinite Love as His followers look up with surprise and joy at His words of approval” -Desire of Ages, 638:2-3 (Maranatha, 320:6-7).

“ ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’ Isaiah 55:9.”

“Our plans are not always God’s plans..

“In His loving care and interest for us, often He who understands us better than we understand ourselves re-fuses to permit us selfishly to seek the gratification of our own ambition. . Often our plans fail that God’s plans for us may succeed.” -Ministry of Healing, 479:9 (Maranatha, 921 :2).

“In the future life the mysteries that here have annoyed and disappointed us will be made plain. We shall see that our seemingly unanswered prayers and disappointed hopes have been among our greatest blessings.” Ministry of Healing, 479-474 (Maranatha, 321:1-4).

“We are not now sufficiently advanced in spiritual attainments to comprehend the mysteries of God. But when we shall compose the family of heaven, these mysteries will be unfolded before us.”-That I May Know Him, 365:4.

“Then much will be revealed in explanation of matters upon which God now keeps silence because we have not gathered up and appreciated that which has been made known of the eternal mysteries. The ways of Providence will be made clear; the mysteries of grace through Christ will be unfolded. That which the mind cannot now grasp, which is hard to be understood, will be explained. We shall see order in that which has seemed unexplainable; wisdom in everything withheld; goodness and gracious mercy in everything imparted. Truth will be unfolded to the mind, free from obscurity, in a single line, and its brightness will be endurable. The heart will be made to sing for joy. Controversies will be forever ended, and all difficulties will be solved.”-That I May Know Him, 365:5 (Maranatha, 321:5)..

“ ‘Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. ‘ Colossians 3:2.”

“When God’s people take their eyes off the things of this world and place them on heaven and heavenly things they will be a peculiar people, because they will see the mercy and goodness and compassion that God has shown to the children of men. His love will call forth a response from them, and their lives will show to those around them that the Spirit of God is controlling them, that they are setting their affections on things above, not on the things of the earth.

“In thinking of heaven, we may put our imagination to the utmost stretch and think the loftiest thoughts that we are capable of thinking, and our minds will grow weary in the effort to comprehend the breadth and depth and height of the subject. It is impossible for our minds to take in the great themes of eternity. It is impossible for us even to make an effort to understand these things without the effort affecting our whole character for good and having an uplifting influence on our minds. As we think of how Christ came to our world to die for fallen man, we understand something of the price that was paid for our redemption, and we realize that there is no true goodness or greatness apart from God.

“Only by the light shining from the cross of Calvary can we know to what depths of sin and degradation the human race has fallen through sin. Only by the length of the chain let down from heaven to draw us up can we know the depths to which we had sunk. And it is only by keeping the unseen realities in view that we can understand anything of the wonderful theme of redemption.” -In Heavenly Places, 368:1-4 (Maranatha, 322:2-4).

“We are almost home; we shall soon hear the voice of the Savior richer than any music, saying, Your warfare is accomplished. Enter into the joy of thy Lord. Blessed, blessed benediction; I want to hear it from His immortal lips. I want to praise Him; I want to honor Him that sits on the throne. I want my voice to echo and re-echo through the courts of heaven. Will you be there? . . God help us, and fill us with all fullness and power, and then we can taste of the joys of the world to come.” -In Heavenly Places, 368:4 (Maranatha, 322:5).

“ ‘If any man’s work abide. . , he shall receive a reward.’ 1 Corinthians 3:14.”

“Those who truly love God will desire so to improve the talents that He has given them, that they may be a blessing to others. And by and by the gates of heaven will be thrown wide open to admit them, and from the lips of the King of Glory the benediction will fall upon their ear like richest music, ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world’ (Matthew 25:34). Thus the redeemed will be welcomed to the mansions that Jesus is preparing for them. There their companions will not be the vile of earth, but those who through divine aid have formed perfect characters. Every sinful tendency, every imperfection, has been removed by the blood of Christ; and the excellence and brightness of His glory, far exceeding the brightness of the sun in its meridian splendor, is imparted to them. And the moral beauty, the perfection of His character, shines through them in worth far exceeding this outward splendor. They are without fault before the great white throne, sharing the dignity and privileges of the angels.” Maranatha, 324:2.

“Obedience to all the commandments of God was the condition of eating of the tree of life. Adam fell by disobedience.

“Obedience through Jesus Christ gives to man perfection of character and a right to that tree of life. The conditions of again partaking of the fruit of the tree are plainly stated in the testimony of Jesus Christ to John: ‘Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.’ “-Bible Commentary, Volume 1, 1086 (Maranatha, 325:5-6).

“In the rainbow above the throne is an everlasting testimony that ‘God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’

“As the bow in the cloud is formed by the union of the sunlight and the shower, so the rainbow encircling the throne represents the combined power of mercy and justice. It is not justice alone that is to be maintained; for this would eclipse the glory of the rainbow of promise above the throne; men could see only the penalty of the law. Were there no justice, no penalty, there would be no stability to the government of God. It is the mingling ofjudgment and mercy that makes salvation complete.

“Mercy invites us to enter through the gates into the city of God, and justice is satisfied to accord to every obedient soul full privileges as a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. If we were defective in character, we could not pass the gates that mercy has opened to the obedient; for justice stands at the entrance, and demands holiness in all who would see God.

“Were justice extinct, and were it possible for divine mercy to open the gates to the whole race, irrespective of character, there would be a worse condition of disaffection and rebellion in heaven than before Satan was expelled. The peace, happiness, and harmony of heaven would be broken. The change from earth to heaven will not change men’s character; the happiness of the redeemed in heaven results from the character formed in this life after the image of Christ. The saints in heaven will first have been saints on earth.

“The salvation that Christ made such a sacrifice to gain for man is that which is alone of value; for it is that which saves from sin. . Thus the law of God is not weakened by the gospel, but the power of sin is broken, and the scepter of mercy is extended to the penitent sinner. . God will never forget His people in their struggle against evil, let Jesus be our theme.”-Review, December 19, 1892 (Maranatha, 326:2-6).

“Thine eyes shall see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the land that is very far off.’ Isaiah 99:17.”

“If we desire to see the King in His beauty we must here behave worthily. We must outgrow our childishness. When provocation comes let us be silent. There are times when silence is eloquence. We are to reveal the patience and kindness and forbearance that will make us worthy of being called sons and daughters of God. We are to trust Him, and believe on Him, and rely upon Him. We are to follow in Christ’s steps. ‘If any man will come after me,’ He says, ‘let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and fol-low me’ (Luke 9:23). It may be a heavy cross to keep silent when you ought to. It may be a painful discipline, but let me assure you that silence does much more to overcome evil than a storm of angry words.

“Here in this world we are to learn what we must be in order to have a place in the heavenly courts. We are to learn the lessons that Christ desires to teach us, that we may be prepared to be taken to the higher school in the courts above, where the Savior will lead us beside the river of life, explaining to us many things that here we could not comprehend. . There we shall see the glory of God as we have never seen it here. We get but a glimpse of the glory now, because we do not follow on to know the lord.” -In Heavenly Places, 365:23 (Maranatha, 327:1-3).

“Long have we waited, but our hope is not to grow dim. If we can but see the King in His beauty we shall be forever blessed.” -8 Testimonies, 253:1 (Maranatha, 327:5).

“‘1 looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. ‘ Revelation 14:1.”

“That triumphant throng, with songs of victory and with crowns and harps, have trodden in the fiery furnace of earthly affliction when it was heated and intensely hot. From destitution, from hunger and torture, they come, from deep self-denial and bitter disappointments, look upon them now as conquerors, no longer poor, no longer in sorrow, in affliction and hated of all men for Christ’s sake. Behold their heavenly garments, white and shining, richer than any kingly robe, look by faith upon their jeweled crowns; never did such a diadem deck the brow of any earthly monarch.

“Listen to their voices as they sing loud hosannas and as they wave the palm branches of victory. Rich music fills heaven as their voices sing forth these words: ‘Worthy, worthy is the lamb that was slain and rose again forevermore. Salvation unto our God which sits upon the throne, and unto the lamb.’ And the angelic host, angels and archangels, covering cherub and glorious seraph, echo back the refrain of that joyous, triumphant song saying, ‘Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever.’ (Revelation 7:12).

“Oh, in that day it will be discovered that the righteous were the wise ones, while the sinful and disobedient were fools. . Shame and everlasting contempt is their portion. Those who have been colaborers for Christ will then be near the throne of God, girt with purity and the garments of eternal righteousness.” -In Heavenly Places, 371 :3-5 (Maranatha, 329:1-5).

“When I think of those words of Daniel, I find myself waking up in the night and repeating them over and over: ‘And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.’ look at the sun and the stars marshaled in the heavens, and known by their names. The Lord says, They that turn many to righteousness shall shine as the stars forever and ever.” -In Heavenly Places, 364:2 (Maranatha, 330:2).

“In order to determine how important are the interests involved in the conversion of the soul from error to truth, we must appreciate the value of immortality; we must realize how terrible are the pains of the second death; we must comprehend the honor and glory awaiting the ransomed, and understand what it is to live in the presence of Him who died that He might elevate and ennoble man, and give to the overcomer a royal diadem.

“The worth of a soul cannot be fully estimated by finite minds. How gratefully will the ransomed and glorified ones remember those who were instrumental in their salvation! No one will then regret his self-denying efforts and persevering labors, his patience, forbearance, and earnest heart yearnings for souls that might have been lost had he neglected his duty or become weary in well-doing.

“Now these white-robed ones are gathered into the fold of the Great Shepherd. The faithful worker and the soul saved through his labor are greeted by the Lamb in the midst of the throne, and are led to the tree of life and to the fountain of living waters. With what joy does the servant of Christ behold these redeemed ones, who are made to share the glory of the Redeemer! How much more precious is heaven to those who have been faithful in the work of saving souls!”-5 Testimonies, 620:2-621:1 (Maranatha, 330:3-5).

“What is done through the cooperation of men with God is a work that shall never perish, but endure through the eternal ages.” -Fundamentals of Education, 199:2 (Maranatha, 330:6).

“John, while in vision, saw a company clothed in white robes. . They were seen in the temple of God. This will be the result for all who will lay hold of the merits of Christ and wash their robes in His blood. Every provision has been made so that we can sit with Christ upon His throne, but the condition is that we be in harmony with the law of God.

“We cannot afford to lose heaven. We ought to have our conversation on heavenly things. There, there is no death nor pain. Why are we so reluctant to talk of these things? Why do we dwell upon earthly things? The apostle exhorts us to have our conversation in heaven. ‘For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ’ (Philippians 3:20). Christ will soon return to gather those who are prepared, and take them to this glorious place. . So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.’ (Hebrews 9:28).

“Do we love to think of this event or do we want to put it off? . . The more we talk of Jesus, the more we shall reflect His divine image. By beholding we become transformed. We need to bring Christ into our religious experience. When you assemble together, let the Conversation be on Christ and His salvation.. The more we talk of Jesus the more of His matchless charms we shall behold.

“Those who take no pleasure in thinking and talking of God in this life, will not enjoy the life that is to come, where God is ever present, dwelling among His people. But those who love to think of God will be in their element, breathing in the atmosphere of heaven. Those who on earth love the thought of heaven will be happy in its holy associations and pleasures.’ ‘-In Heavenly Places, 370:2, 4-5 (Maranatha, 331:25).

“ ‘Since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waits for him.’ Isaiah 64:4.”

“Many have longed to penetrate into the glories of the future world and to have the secrets of eternal mysteries disclosed to them, but they knock in vain. That which is revealed is for us and for our children.. The Great Revealer hath opened to our intelligence many things that are essential in order that we may understand the heavenly attractions and have respect to the recompense of the reward.

“The unfoldings of Jesus in reference to heavenly things are of a character that only the spiritual mind can appreciate. The imagination may summon its utmost powers in order to picture the glories of heaven, but ‘eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him’ (1 Corinthians 2:9). The heavenly intelligences are all around us .. Angels of light create a heavenly atmosphere about the soul, lifting us toward the unseen and eternal. We cannot behold their forms with our natural sight; only by the spiritual vision can we discern heavenly things. Our human powers would be extinguished by the inexpressible glory of the angels of light.

The spiritual ear alone can distinguish the harmony of heavenly voices. It is not Christ’s plan to excite the emotions by brilliant descriptions. . He has with sufficient distinctness presented Himself, the way, the truth, and the life, as the only means whereby salvation is to be obtained. No more than this is really required.

“He might bring the human soul to the threshold of heaven, and through the open door show us its inner glory flooding the heavenly sanctuary and shining out through its portals; but we must behold it by faith, not with the natural eyes. He does not forget that we are His human agents, to work the works of God in a world all seared and marred with the curse. It is in this world, that is clothed with moral darkness like the pall of death, where darkness covers the earth and gross darkness the people, that we are to walk in the light of heaven.” -In Heavenly Places, 366:1-2, 4 (Maranatha, 332:1-4).

“ ‘We look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.’ 2 Corinthians 4:18.”

“ ‘Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.’ Revelation 22: 14.”

“Do we expect to get to heaven at last and join the heavenly choir? Just as we go into the grave we will come up, as far as the character is concerned. . Now is the time for washing and ironing.

“John saw the throne of God and around that throne a company, and he inquired, Who are these? The answer came, ‘These are they which. . have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb’ (Revelation 7:14). Christ leads them to the fountains of living waters, and there is the tree of life and there is the precious Savior. Here is presented to us a life that measures with the life of God. There is no pain, sorrow, sickness, or death there. All is peace and harmony and love.

“Now is the time to receive grace and strength and power to combine with our human efforts that we can form characters for everlasting life. When we do this we will find that the angels of God win minister unto us, and we shall be heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. And when the last trump shall sound, and the dead shall be called from their prison house and changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, the crowns of immortal glory shall be placed upon the heads of the overcomers. The pearly gates will swing back for the nations that have kept the truth and they will enter in. The conflict is ended.”

“ ‘Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world’ (Matt. 25:34). Do we want this benediction? I do, and I believe you do. May God help you that you may fight the battles of this life and gain a victory day by day and at last be among the number that shall cast their crowns at Jesus’ feet and touch the golden harps and fill all heaven with sweetest music. I want you to love my Jesus. . Do not reject my Savior, for He has paid an infinite price for you. I see in Jesus matchless charms, and I want you to see these charms.” - In Heavenly Places, 369:2-3, 5 (Maranatha, 334:1-5).

16B-Maranatha 349:1-373:4

“Can any earthly promotion confer honor equal to this to be sons of God, children of the heavenly King, members of the royal family? . . The nobility of earth are but men; they die, and return to dust; and there is no lasting satisfaction in their praise and honor. But the honor that comes from God is lasting. To be heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, is to be entitled to unsearchable riches treasures of such value that in comparison with them the gold and silver, the gems and precious stones of earth, sink into insignificance.” - Review, June 10, 1884.

“To have fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ is to be ennobled and elevated, and made a partaker of joys unspeakable and full of glory. Food, clothing, station, and wealth may have their value; but to have a connection with God and to be a partaker of His divine nature is of priceless value. Our lives should be hid with Christ in God; and although it ‘doth not yet appear what we shall be,’ ‘when Christ, who is our life, shall appear,’ ‘we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.’ The princely dignity of the Christian character will shine forth as the sun, and the beams of light from the face of Christ will be reflected upon those who have purified themselves even as He is pure. The privilege of becoming sons of God is cheaply purchased, even at the sacrifice of everything we possess, be it life itself.” -4 Testimonies, 357:2 (Maranatha, 349:2-3).

“To the dwellers in Eden was committed the care of the garden, ‘to dress it and to keep it.’ Their occupation was not wearisome, but pleasant and invigorating. God appointed labor as a blessing to man, to occupy his mind, to strengthen his body, and to develop his faculties. In mental and physical activity Adam found one of the highest pleasures of his holy existence.

“Those who regard work as a curse, attended though it be with weariness and pain, are cherishing an error. The rich often look down with contempt upon the working classes, but this is wholly at variance with God’s purpose in creating man. What are the possessions of even the most wealthy in comparison with the heritage given to the lordly Adam? Yet Adam was not to be idle. Our Creator, who understands what is for man’s happiness, appointed Adam his work. The true joy of life is found only by the working men and women.” -Patriarchs and Prophets, 50:1 (Maranatha, 350:3-4).

“God designs that all shall be workers. The toiling beast of burden answers the purpose of its creation better than does the indolent man. God is a constant worker. The angels are workers; they are ministers of God to the children of men. Those who look forward to a heaven of inactivity will be disappointed, for the economy of heaven provides no place for the gratification of indolence. But to the weary and heavy-laden rest is promised. It is the faithful servant who will be welcomed from his labors to the joy of his Lord.”-Counsels to Teachers, 280:1 (Maranatha, 350:6).

“The saints will have crowns of glory upon their heads, and harps of gold in their hands. They will play upon the golden harp, and sing redeeming love, and make melody unto God. Their former trials and suffering in this world will be forgotten and lost amid the glories of the New Earth.”-Youth’s Instructor, October, 1852.

“Human language is inadequate to describe the reward of the righteous. It will be known only to those who behold it.”-Story of Redemption, 430:2-431:O (Maranatha, 355:7).

“‘Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the Inheritance of the saints in light. ‘ Colossians 1: 12.”

“The ransom has been paid, and it is possible for all to come to God, and through a life of obedience to attain unto everlasting life. Then how sad it is that men turn from the immortal inheritance, and live for the gratification of pride, for selfishness and display, and. . lose the blessing which they might have both in this life and in the life to come. They might enter into the palaces of heaven, and associate on terms of freedom and equality with Christ and heavenly angels, and with the princes of God; and yet, incredible as it may seem, they turn from heavenly attractions.

“The Creator of all worlds proposes to love those who believe in His only-begotten Son as their personal Savior, even as He loves His Son. Even here and now His gracious favor is bestowed upon us to this marvelous extent. He has given to men the gift of the Light and Majesty of heaven, and with Him He has bestowed all the treasures of heaven. Much as He has promised us for the life to come, He also bestows princely gifts upon us in this life, and as subjects of His grace, He would have us enjoy everything that will ennoble, expand, and elevate our characters. It is His design to fit us for the heavenly courts above.

“But Satan is contending for the souls of men. . He would not have them catch a glimpse of the future honor, the eternal glories, laid up for those who shall be inhabitants of heaven, or have a taste of the experience that gives a foretaste of the happiness of heaven.

‘“Those who accept Christ as their Savior have the promise of the life that now is, and that which is to come. . . The lowliest disciple of Christ may become an inhabitant of heaven, an heir of God to an inheritance incorruptible, and that fades not away. O that every one might make choice of the heavenly gift, become an heir of God to that inheritance whose title is secure from any destroyer, world without end! O, choose not the world, but choose the better inheritance! Press, urge your way toward the mark for the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus.” -Fundamentals of Education, 234:1-235:O (Maranatha 357:1-5).

“ ‘/ saw as It were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his Image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.’“ Revelation 15:2.

“ ‘Whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord.’ Ephesians 6:8.”

“The poor widow who cast her two mites into the Lord’s treasury little knew what she was doing. Her example of self-sacrifice has acted and reacted upon thousands of hearts in every land and in every age. It has brought to the treasury of God gifts from the high and the low, the rich and the poor. It has helped to sustain missions, to establish hospitals, to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, heal the sick, and preach the gospel to the poor. Multitudes have been blessed through her unselfish deed. And the outworking of all these lines of influence she, in the day of God, will be permitted to see. So with Mary’s precious gift to the Savior. How many have been inspired to loving service by the memory of that broken alabaster box! And how she will rejoice as she beholds all this!” -6 Testimonies, 310:2 (Maranatha, 359:1, 3).

“‘Verily I say unto you,’ Christ declared, ‘Where so ever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her: looking Into the future, the Savior spoke with certainty concerning His gospel. It was to be preached throughout the world. And as far as the gospel extended, Mary’s gift would shed its fragrance, and hearts would be blessed through her unstudied act. Kingdoms would rise and fall; the names of monarchs and conquerors would be forgotten; but this woman’s deed would be immortalized upon the pages of sacred history. Until time should be no more, that broken alabaster box would tell the story of the abundant love of God for a fallen race.” Desire of Ages, 563:1 (Maranatha, 359:4).

“We cannot suppose that when the final triumph shall come, and we have the mansions prepared for us, idleness will be our portion -that we shall rest in a blissful, do-nothing state.”-Review, May 17, 1898 (Maranatha. 360:2).

“I have been shown the order, the perfect order, of heaven, and have been enraptured as I listened to the perfect music there. After coming out of vision, the singing here has sounded very harsh and discordant. I have seen companies of angels, who stood in a hollow square, everyone having a harp of gold. At the end of the harp was an instrument to turn to set the harp or change the tunes. Their fingers did not sweep over the strings carelessly, but they touched different strings to produce different sounds. There is one angel who always leads, who first touches the harp and strikes the note, then all join in the rich, perfect music of heaven. It cannot be described. It is melody, heavenly, divine, while from every countenance beams the image of Jesus, shining with glory unspeakable.”- 1 Testimonies, 146:2 (Maranatha. 361:4).

“What a song that will be when the ransomed of the Lord meet.. ! All heaven is filled with rich music, and with songs of praise to the Lamb. Saved, everlastingly saved, in the kingdom of glory! To have a life that measures with the life of God -that is the reward.” -Bible Commentary, Volume 7, 982:2.

“Our lifework here Is a preparation for the life eternal. The education begun here will not be completed In this life; it will be going forward through all eternity -ever progressing, never completed.” -Ministry of Healing, 466:2 (Maranatha, 363:3).

“ ‘That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.’ Ephesians 2:7.”

“ ‘Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. . Which things the angels desire to look into.’ 1 Peter 1:10-12.”

“Through all eternity the ransomed host will be His chief glory.”-Spirit of Prophecy, Volume 3, 261 (Maranatha, 366:5).

“ ‘O Lord, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.‘ Psalm 104:24.”

“The knowledge of God’s works and ways we can only begin to obtain in this world; the study will be continued throughout eternity. God has provided for man subjects of thought which will bring into activity every faculty of the mind. We may read the character of the Creator in the heavens above and the earth beneath, filling the heart with gratitude and thanksgiving.

Every nerve and sense will respond to the expressions of God’s love in His marvelous works.”-4 Testimonies, 581:2 (Maranatha, 367:1-2).

“ ‘Thus said the Lord. . I, even my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I com-manded.’ Isaiah 45:11,12.”

“God has worlds upon worlds that are obedient to His law. These worlds are conducted with reference to the glory of the Creator. As the inhabitants of these worlds see the great price that has been paid to ransom man, they are filled with amazement.” -Review, September 25, 1900 (Maranatha, 368:3).

“Then I was taken to a world which had seven moons. There I saw good old Enoch, who had been translated. . I asked him if this was the place he was taken to from the earth. He said, ‘It is not; the city is my home, and I have come to visit this place.’ He moved about the place as if perfectly at home.

“I begged of my attending angel to let me remain in that place. I could not bear the thought of coming back to this dark world again. Then the angel said, ‘You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.’ “ -Early Writings, 40:O (Maranatha, 368:6-7).

“The Lord has made every provision for our happiness in the future life. But He has made no revelations regarding these plans, and we are not to speculate concerning them. Neither are we to measure the conditions of the future life by the conditions of this life.” Medical Ministry, 100:4 (Maranatha, 369:7).

“ ‘The kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High.’ Daniel 7:27.”

“The government of the kingdom of Christ is like no earthly government. It is a representation of the characters of those who compose the kingdom. . His court is one where holy love presides and whose offices and appointments are graced by the exercise of charity. He charges His servants to bring pity and loving-kindness, His own attributes, into all their office work.

“ ‘The power of Christ alone can work the transformation in heart and mind that all must experience who would partake with Him of the new life in the kingdom of God. . In order to serve Him aright, we must be born of the divine Spirit. This will purify the heart and renew the mind and give us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give us willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship.” - In Heavenly Places, 372:1-3 (Maranatha, 370:2-3).

“Thine eyes shall see Jerusalem a quiet habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down; not one of the stakes thereof shall ever be removed, neither shall any of the cords thereof be broken. But there the glorious Lord will be unto us a place of broad rivers and streams. . For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; he will save us . . And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity.’ (Isaiah 33:20-24).” -In Heavenly Places, 372:2-4,. (Maranatha, 370:4).

“ ‘The glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.’ ‘The Lord God will cause righte-ousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.’ ‘In that day shall the Lord of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people.” -Prophets and Kings, 733:1 (Maranatha, 371:4).

“Through Christ’s redeeming work the government of God stands justified. The Omnipotent One is made known as the God of love. Satan’s charges are refuted, and his character unveiled. Rebellion can never again arise. Sin can never again enter the universe. Through eternal ages all are secure from apostasy. By love’s self-sacrifice, the inhabitants of earth and heaven are bound to their Creator in bonds of indissoluble union.

“In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace much more abounds. The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be not only ransomed but exalted. Our little world, under the curse of sin the one dark blot in His glorious creation, will be honored above all other worlds in the universe of God. Here, where the Son of God tabernacled in humanity; where the King of glory lived and suffered and died-here, when He shall make all things new, the tabernacle of God shall be with men, ‘and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.’ And through endless ages as the redeemed walk in the light of the Lord, they will praise Him for His unspeakable Gift-Immanuel, ‘God with us. ‘ “-Desire of Ages, 26:2-3 (Maranatha, 372:4-5).

LOOKING FORWARD TO HEAVEN

“What a source of joy to the disciples to know that they had such a Friend in heaven to plead in their behalf!

Through the visible ascension of Christ all their views and contemplation of heaven are changed. Their minds had formerly dwelt upon it as a region of unlimited space, tenanted by spirits without substance. Now heaven was connected with the thought of Jesus, whom they had loved and reverenced above all others, with whom they had conversed and journeyed, whom they had handled, even in His resurrected body..

“Heaven could no longer appear to them as an indefinite, incomprehensible space, filled with intangible spirits. They now looked upon it as their future home, where mansions were being prepared for them by their loving Redeemer.”-6 Bible Commentary, 1054,./1:3-4.

“A fear of making the future inheritance seem too material has led many to spiritualize away the very truths which lead us to look upon it as our home.” -Great Controversy, 674:4-675.

“Jesus comes to present the advantages and beautiful imagery of the heavenly, that the attractions of heaven shall become familiar to the thoughts, and memory’s hall be hung with pictures of celestial and eternal loveliness.”-Our High Calling, 286:1.

“The great Teacher gives man a view of the future world. He brings it, with its attractive possessions, within the range of his vision. . If He can fasten the mind upon the future life and its blessedness, in comparison with the temporal concerns of this world, the striking contrast is deeply impressed upon the mind, absorbing the heart and soul and the whole being.” -Our High Calling, 286:3 (see also pp. 250, 319).

“Motives stronger, and agencies more powerful, could never be brought into operation; the exceeding rewards for right-doing and the enjoyment of heaven, the society of the angels, the communion and love of God and His Son, the elevation and extension of all our powers throughout eternal ages,-are these not mighty incentives and encouragements to urge us to give the heart’s loving service to our Creator and Redeemer?” -Steps to Christ 21:3.

“If we could have but one view of the celestial city, we would never wish to dwell on earth again. There are beautiful landscapes on earth, and I enjoy all these prospects of loveliness in nature. I associate them with

the Creator. But I know that if I love God, and keep His commandments, there is a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory reserved in Heaven for me. Beautiful as are the scenes of earth, they can bear no comparison to the glories of the eternal world.” -Signs of the Times, April 8, 1889.

“Human language is inadequate to describe the reward of the righteous. It will be known only to those who behold it. No finite mind can comprehend the glory of the Paradise of God.” - Great Controversy, 675:O.

LAST DAYS APPENDIX

The following material was gleaned from our book of unpublished manuscripts, entitled The Last Days, and is some of the beat materiel from that volume on topics given in this section.

HEAVEN

Description of Heavenly Things. - “I saw the exceeding loveliness and glory of Jesus. His countenance was brighter than the sun at noonday. His robe was whiter than the whitest white. How can I . . describe to you the glories of heaven and the lovely angels singing and playing upon their harps of ten strings? . .” - Letter 9, 1851, pp. 1-2. (To Sister Harriet, “ August 11, 1851).

God Requires Perfect Obedience to His Law. - “As Christ denied self and sacrificed at every step, so must we, if we would sit with Him upon His throne. And then what do we get? -everlasting life, an eternal weight of glory. The streets are all pure gold, like transparent glass; and there is the tree of life, whose leaves are for the healing of the nations. Everything is lovely. There is no sickness, no sorrow, no pain, no death there but our life there will measure with the life of God.” -Manuscript 11, 1886, pp. 3, 9-11. (“Christ’s Controversy with the Devil, “July 25, 1886).

No Color line in Heaven. - “In heaven there will be no color line, for all will be as white as Christ Himself.” Manuscript 27, 1901, p. 8. A talk given in the Vicksburg, Mississippi Church, on March 16, 1901. Published in Gospel Herald, March 1901. {See also: GH 40-42.}

Caution Against Speculating Concerning Conditions In Heaven. - “Be very careful not to entertain spe-culative ideas, or to teach that which does not properly represent the truth for this time. We are not to speculate regarding what will be in heaven. To pry into these mysteries and present fanciful theories regarding them is to do great harm. The people of God need not be aroused on this point. Suppositions regarding these mysteries are not to be received as truth. No one should dare pry into subjects that God has not revealed.”

Warning Against the Theory of Births In the New Earth and “Spiritual Wifery.” – “I am instructed to bear a message of warning against the theory that in the new earth children will be born. There is a strain of spiritualism coming in among our people, and it will undermine the faith of those who give place to it, leading them to give heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. We have the plain assurance of Christ that in the world to come the redeemed ‘neither marry, nor are given in marriage’ (Matthew 22:30).”-Letter 59, 1904, pp. 1-2.

(To “Dear Brethren and Sisters in the South,” January 22, 1904). {See also: 1SM 172-4.}

All His Providences Will then be Explained.-”In the new earth Christ will lead us by the side of the living Waters, and explain the dark passages of Scripture that we have never been able to understand. All His providence will then be made plain.”-Manuscript 102, 1904, p.10. (Untitled Manuscript, a sermon preached in Nashville, Tennessee, July 2, 1904). {See also: Evangelism 274; MCP 575; RC 243, 250, 261, 283.]

Meaning of “Mansions.” - “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. [I am the brightness of the Father’s glory, the manifestation of His love, the channel by which His mercy comes to you, and by which your prayers rise to Him]. In My father’s house are many mansions’ (John 14:1-2).

“The word here translated ‘mansions’ means ‘permanent abodes’ - habitations that are not removed like tents, but which permanently endure for the family of the redeemed. The Father is there to gather His Children to His parental arms and bestow upon them His everlasting Love.”-Letter 84, 1907, p.2. (To D. H. Kress, March 5, 1907),

The Gratitude of Saved Souls for Efforts Made on Their Behalf When They Enter Heaven and Receive Their Crowns. - “What a reward awaits the winner of souls! When the gates of that beautiful city on high are swung back on their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in, crowns of glory will be placed on their heads, and they will ascribe honor and glory and majesty to God. And at that time some will some to you, and will say, “If it had not been for the words you spoke to me in kindness, if it had not been for your tears and supplications and earnest efforts, I should never have seen the King in His beauty.” What a reward is this! How insignificant is the praise of human beings in this earthly, transient life, in comparison with the infinite rewards that await the faithful in the future, immortal life!”

The Joy of the Redeemed When They Meet the souls for Whom They Labored. - “When you enter within the gates into the city, and the crown of life is placed upon your brow and on the brow of the very ones you have worked to save, they will cast themselves upon your neck, and say, ‘It was you that saved my soul. I should have perished, if you had not saved me from myself. You had to take a good while, but you were patient with me and won me to a knowledge of the truth,’ And then, as they lay their crowns at the feet of Jesus, and touch the golden harps that have been placed in their hands, and unite in praising and glorifying their Redeemer, and they realize that theirs is the great blessing of everlasting life, there will be rejoicing indeed. And oh, the thought that we may be instrumental, under God, in helping to show men and women the way of salvation, while living on this earth!” -Manuscript 15, 1909, pp. 5, 11, 12, 14, 15. (“Words of Encouragement to Self-supporting Workers,” April 26, 1909). {See also: Evangelism 45-6; WM 72-3. 778.

End Time Events

Contents

The Counterfeit Revival And The Threefold Union

The National Sunday Law

The False Latter Rain

The Shaking And Sifting

The Seal And The Mark

Perfection Of Character

The Judgment Of The Living

The Marriage In The Most Holy Place

The Latter Rain

The Loud Cry

The Little Time Of Trouble

The Close Of Probation

The Great Time Of Trouble

The Second Advent

The Ascension And Millennium

The Third Advent

The Eternity Beyond